Melbourne - the world's most livable city, according to several polls of late - has undoubtedly Australia's best pub, bar and club scene, a bonus borne not only of its brilliant architecture but also its liberal liquor licensing laws.

Melbourne CBD contains a wide variety of bars, pubs and clubs, starting from the ubiquitous faux-Irish pubs and traditional Aussie hotels, through serious jazz venues on Bennetts Lane, nightclubs and dance venues.

Becoming more up-market as its original denizens age and gentrify is Brunswick St, north of CBD, the world centre of style and culture.

Other Bars & Pubs centres are St Kilda & Prahran with funky chapel st.