Melbourne is arguably one of the best cities in the world and it has the accolades to prove it with it being voted the most liveable city six years in a row (2011-2016). The city oozes class and elegance but also has a special flaw that omits a sense of uniqueness compared to other tourist hot-spots. The most important factor about all of this though is its ability to rise to sporting occasions.

Melbourne has hosted some of the biggest sporting events in the world which include the cricket and rugby World Cups, 1956 Olympics and the Australian Open just to name a few. It is also home to one of the best sporting grounds in the world – the MCG – and also has a sister venue to complement; Etihad stadium.

These two stadiums host the majority of sport in Melbourne and create an atmosphere that goes unmatched; nothing quite beats the cheering voices of 100,000 people on AFL Grand Final day. Whilst the MCG always takes the cake with its ability to create a sense of occasion and encapsulate the feeling of a hyped crowd, special mention must go to Etihad and what it does for any code of sport when it takes the field. Despite the venue only being able to host just over 50,000 in the stands (half the MCG), because of its enclosed nature it can feel 10 times bigger with the crowd noises echoing throughout.

A lot of major sporting cities have their major venue amidst an area that leaves little to the imagination; this is what makes Etihad special. Being in the heart of the Docklands – an area riddled with shops, restaurants and hotels – means that accessibility of pre-game entertainment necessities is right at your finger-tips. A plethora of options leaves sport lovers spoiled for choice and has their appetite hitting its high point just as the main event is about to take place.

Here at SWiAM, we are based in Melbourne and love everything it has to offer. If you’re thinking of visiting, you can check out all the best fan tips right here.