South Melbourne

Visit South Melbourne, one of Melbourne's oldest suburbs and its beautifully restored public buildings, terrace houses and stately mansions to see how Melbourne's grand past embraces the present. Nearby Albert Park is a contained area worth a visit for its cafés, delis and scenic outdoor activities. Time your visit for mild March, when the area gets into gear for the Formula 1and Australian Grand Prix. Running through the heart of South Melbourne is cosmopolitan Clarendon Street, featuring restored Victorian shopfronts housing fashion, food and coffee outlets. An eclectic range of independent retailers stretches toward the bay along Coventry, Dorcas, Bank and Park streets and you'll be rewarded for your time with items to covet. Stop for a refreshing drink at one of South Melbourne's impressive pubs. The lynchpin of South Melbourne is the South Melbourne Market, a fixture of the area since 1867. You'll find characters, charm and fresh produce galore at the market, as well as unusual homewares to take home. Sandwiched between South Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay is Albert Park, popular year-round for its cafés and delis and swag of leisure facilities along Bridport Street. Most popular is Albert Park Lake. Embark on the circuit around the lake and surrounding parklands and join Melbourne's inner city dwellers jogging, sailing, cycling or rowing. Stop for a dip at Albert Park beach if the temperature heats up. Also in the neighbourhood are the Albert Park Golf Course and the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, as well as the Formula 1and Australian Grand Prix racetrack. Jump on tram 12 from Collins Street or number 1 from Swanston Street to get to South Melbourne and Albert Park.