9 Things You Can Only Do And See In South Melbourne

Planning a trip to Melbourne? Be sure to book ahead onto a top-rated tour of the city to make the most out of your trip. Whilst you’re there, why not explore more of Australia on one of these highly recommended tours in the country?

South Melbourne Market is the heart and icon of this suburb, bustling throughout the year. Abundant with some of the country’s freshest produce, this market is a one-stop shop for the best fruit and veggies. If cooking isn’t your forte, delicious international cuisine can be enjoyed in the surrounding restaurants. Turkish gözleme, Spanish paella and Vietnamese dim sims are just some of the many simple street foods served throughout the market. Quality cappuccinos can be enjoyed at Clement Coffee on a cold day, while Fritz Gelato serves up dozens of ice-cream flavours throughout summer. This lively marketplace incorporates all of South Melbourne’s best food, stalls and produce under one roof. Be sure to visit in summer when the venue is transformed into a weekly night market on Thursdays.

Listed with the Victorian Heritage Register, South Melbourne Town Hall is hidden away from all the suburb’s busy street corners and boulevards. Built in 1879, the hall is an attractive exhibit of Melbourne’s unique architecture. Just outside the building is a long patch of grass featuring a colourful rose garden, making it an ideal place for a quiet picnic. The hall is now home to the Australian National Academy of Music showcasing Melbourne’s outstanding musical talent.

Featuring a cake shop, deli and café, The Old Paper Shop is an ideal place to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in South Melbourne. It is hard to walk past The Old Paper Shop with mouth-watering sweets and cakes decorated across the window. Inside, you can enjoy a self-styled sandwich or salad from the fresh and extensive deli. Carefully crafted cappuccinos are also available from morning until midnight.

Built in 1856, the See Yup Temple incorporates a unique blend of European and Chinese architecture. The temple was built by the See Yup Society as a spiritual centre and has been a site of prayers and worship for over a century. The temple was funded by donations from society members, and the names of thousands of deceased and present donors are inscribed on stone tablets. Originally an 18th-century Victorian-style building, the temple has been infused with oriental elements, and the entire space is abundant with handcrafted artefacts from China. The inside is adorned with beautiful oriental décor and a misty atmosphere where incense sticks burn throughout the day. See Yup Temple is an ideal place to spend a quiet and curious morning in South Melbourne.

Etto is all about authentic and simple Italian street food. Fresh pasta and sauces are made from scratch but are cooked to order and ready within minutes. Etto also makes delicious thin-style Napoli pizza, hot garlic bread and crisp salads. You can select your own pasta combination with 13 different sauces and 11 different pasta bases. Perfect for an outdoor lunch in summer, Etto also has a collection of cool Italian wine and beer.

After a hectic day of shopping and eating, head down to South Melbourne Beach either by tram or a short scenic walk. This quiet but popular beach resembles Florida vibes, with palm trees, piers and rollerbladers passing by in every direction. The beach still radiates a local liveliness with fish and chip shops, plenty of beer and friendly dog walkers. Whether it’s a walk down the pier or a picnic on the sand, this beach is the best place in South Melbourne to enjoy a soothing sunset.

Hidden behind a laneway on Clarendon Street, Smart Artz Gallery features some of Melbourne’s best artworks. Converted from an industrial warehouse, Smart Artz is a chic setting ideal for enjoying low-key art and exhibitions. This hip space features paintings from self-taught contemporary artist Kim Kennedy who is Melbourne born and bred. The gallery also features original, hand wrought sculptures from Charles Rocco. Smart Artz also showcases the original piano of Dame Nellie Melba, listed as a national treasure. From live performances to original paintings, Smart Artz radiates the sophisticated vibes of South Melbourne.

Red Petite is a tiny Thai restaurant squeezed between vintage terrace homes. Although small in size, Red Petite won’t fail to satisfy any kind of appetite. With a homely atmosphere and friendly staff, it is easy to relax at Red Petite without the hustle found in larger restaurants. Authentic Thai food ranges from stir-fried ground pork to fresh curries and salads. Simple Bangkok street food can also be enjoyed for lunch and dinner. With warm lighting, a cosy ambience and, most importantly, delicious food, Red Petite offers a homely dining experience.

Historically known as Emerald Hill, South Melbourne is one of the city’s oldest suburbs. Set in the iconic 18th-century post office building, the Emerald Hill Heritage Centre sits alongside South Melbourne’s local library. The heritage centre focuses on aboriginal culture, local history research and Melbourne’s cultural heritage. Art and heritage exhibitions are also available throughout the year. The accompanying library also features frequent author talks, exhibitions and a comfortable outdoor setting to laze in the sun.