Lygon Street Tours and Activities

Lygon Street showing street scenes, night scenes and signage
Lygon Street featuring a city and street scenes
Lygon Street which includes signage, dining out and street scenes
Photo provided by Tourism Victoria
Photo provided by Tourism Victoria
Lygon Street

Feast on the best pasta and pizza outside Italy in Melbourne’s atmospheric Italian quarter.

The first wave of Italian immigrants arrived in Melbourne in the mid-20th century and settled in the suburb of Carlton. One of the first things they did was open restaurants that served their favourite dishes, made just the way they were made back home. Toto’s Pizza House was the first pizzeria in Australia, and was followed by other cafés and restaurants on Carlton’s main thoroughfare of Lygon Street. The area is now firmly established as Australia’s “Little Italy” and has become a favourite haunt of foodies from all corners of the globe.

The stretch of Lygon Street between Victoria and Elgin streets, just north of Melbourne city centre, is where you’ll find all the most popular dining establishments. Start your day with an invigorating espresso, munch on a panino flavoured with garlic and fresh herbs at lunchtime, or wallow in nostalgia for the old country over a steaming bowl of pasta and a bottle of fruity red wine as darkness falls, leaving just enough room for a refreshing late-night gelato.

Every October the street is transformed by the Lygon Street Fiesta, a traditional Italian-style street festival which has been drawing the crowds since 1978. Other nearby entertainment options include the arthouse Cinema Nova and the legendary La Mama Theatre, while the Museo Italiano chronicles the legacy of the Italian community in Carlton and its impact on Australian life and culture.

Lygon Street also has a smattering of restaurants serving equally delicious non-Italian cuisine, including Indian and Thai, as well as an eclectic mix of fashion boutiques, bookshops and galleries – plenty to browse the hours away in this bohemian quarter of the city. It’s an easy walk from central Melbourne, but if you want to save your energy for a thorough exploration of your destination, jump on a tram. There is street parking nearby but it can be in high demand, so public transport is usually a safer bet.

Plan a trip to see Lygon Street

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CitiClub Hotel Melbourne

CitiClub Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
Save 100% on your flight
per person
23 Oct - 30 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Melbourne (MEL)
7.6/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
Great Location, But Not for a Peaceful Stay The location is fantastic—an easy walk to Hardware Lane and Bourke Street. If you're planning to enjoy the nearby nightclubs, this hotel is ideal. However, if you're after a relaxing, quiet staycation, I’d recommend spending a bit more and booking elsewhere. While some noise is expected given the central location and proximity to nightclubs, the way it's handled is disappointing. You’re only informed after payment that nightclub noise will continue until 5am, and that earplugs are available—but only if you come down and ask for them. If noise is such a known issue, why not provide earplugs in the room or offer them at check-in? Instead, you're left having to get out of bed, ride the lift down in your pyjamas, approach an unmanned reception desk visible to nightclub queues, ring a bell, and wait for someone to hand you earplugs. Then it’s back to bed, hoping for some sleep. The rooms are not soundproof. You can hear your neighbours talking, showering, flushing the toilet, and even hallway conversations as if they’re happening inside your room. Street noise during the day is minimal, but once the nightclubs start, the bass reverberates through the floors and walls. We were on the 7th floor and still felt it—lower floors would likely be worse. Parking Tip: The hotel is not affiliated with the Citihotel Secure Parking lot located underneath. Pre-booking can save you a bit of hassle. Overnight parking is around $40, which is on par

Reviewed on 27 Jul. 2025

Aussie Escape Apartments - Skyline Collins Tower

Aussie Escape Apartments - Skyline Collins Tower

3.5 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
per person
17 Oct - 24 Oct
found 12 hours ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Melbourne (MEL)
8.2/10 Very Good! (327 reviews)
The view from our room was fantastic One issue was the bathrooms flooded after each shower. Drier did not work well to dry floor mats. We paid money to open the other bathroom only to find it very dirty and dusty. The toilet was not cleaned, the drawers to basin had water marks on them. Dust everywhere Needs more bin liners for all bins. Apart from that it was great. Thank u

Reviewed on 12 Jun. 2025

Melbourne Corporate Stays – Docklands Waterfront

Melbourne Corporate Stays – Docklands Waterfront

3 out of 5
Docklands
Save 100% on your flight
per person
13 Oct - 20 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)

Tours & day trips

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From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

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Activity duration is 13 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 76 reviews
Free cancellation available
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From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

Activity duration is 13 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 76 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$105 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island

Activity duration is 9 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$1,000 per traveller*
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Adventure & outdoor

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Melbourne: French and Phillip Island Wildlife Expedition

Melbourne: French and Phillip Island Wildlife Expedition

Activity duration is 12 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$279 per adult
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Peninsula Hot Springs: Entry Ticket with Bath House

Peninsula Hot Springs: Entry Ticket with Bath House

Activity duration is 5 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$80 per adult
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Top Lygon Street Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Dorsett Melbourne

Dorsett Melbourne

4 out of 5
615 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC
Dorsett Melbourne
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG

4 out of 5
589-599 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins by IHG
The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

The Victoria Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
215 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
The Victoria Hotel Melbourne
Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne

Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne

4 out of 5
380 William Street, Melbourne, VIC
Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne
Atlantis Hotel, Melbourne

Atlantis Hotel, Melbourne

4 out of 5
300 Spencer Street, Melbourne, VIC
Atlantis Hotel, Melbourne
Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

4 out of 5
131-137 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC
Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne
Stamford Plaza Melbourne

Stamford Plaza Melbourne

5 out of 5
111 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Stamford Plaza Melbourne
Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

5 out of 5
123 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
Pegasus Apart'Hotel

Pegasus Apart'Hotel

4 out of 5
206 A'Beckett Street, Melbourne, VIC
Pegasus Apart'Hotel
See all 5,461 properties in Lygon Street
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lygon Street

Explore the vibrant Lygon Street in Melbourne, where you can indulge in shopping and leisurely walks. Don't miss the chance to catch a film at the local movie theatre or embark on a Melbourne op shop tour to discover unique second-hand treasures. Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse culture this iconic street has to offer!

Shopping

Experience shopping on Lygon Street with Melbourne Central, only 966m away, featuring a vibrant mix of businesses and entertainment. Queen Victoria Market, also 966m away, offers a bustling atmosphere. For unique finds, visit Lightning Ridge Opal Mines, located 1.6km from Lygon Street.

Recreation

Marvel Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for enjoying live games and events. Just a short distance away, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl provides a vibrant setting for outdoor concerts, while the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre is ideal for family-friendly swimming and recreation.

Adventure

Explore the Merri Creek Trail, a scenic hiking path located 3.2km from Lygon Street, perfect for soaking in nature's beauty. For a leisurely outdoor experience, the Tan Track, also 3.2km away, offers a refreshing stroll. For a unique adventure, hop on Melbourne Seaplanes, located 8.0km away, for breathtaking aerial views.

Nightlife

Lygon Street comes alive at night with a vibrant atmosphere. Catch a show at the nearby Princess Theatre, just 1.1km away, or enjoy a performance at Her Majesty's Theatre and Comedy Theatre, both 966m from the street, offering a mix of culture and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lygon Street

Lygon Street in Melbourne is a vibrant hub offering a mix of cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and historical sites. Visitors can explore charming streets, unwind in urban parks, and discover the rich heritage of historic colleges and universities nearby. Whether you're keen on indulging in local cuisine or immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere, Lygon Street has something for everyone looking to enjoy the essence of Melbourne.

  • Rod Laver Arena: A premier entertainment venue, Rod Laver Arena is renowned for hosting major sporting events and concerts. With a vibrant atmosphere, it offers family-friendly experiences and is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
  • Collins Street: Known as the 'Paris End' of Melbourne, Collins Street is lined with historic buildings, luxury boutiques, and fine dining. It's a bustling hub that embodies the city's cosmopolitan vibe, perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping.
  • Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre: This modern venue is a key location for international conferences and exhibitions. With its sleek design and business-focused environment, it plays a pivotal role in Melbourne's vibrant corporate scene.

Best time to go to Lygon Street

The best time to visit Lygon Street can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Lygon Street falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Lygon Street falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July48.9°F (9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lygon Street

For a budget-friendly trip to Lygon Street, consider visiting between May and July, when accommodation prices drop. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates, find special offers, and book package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. To explore the area without breaking the bank, take advantage of Melbourne's efficient public transport system, including trams and trains, which can help you save on travel costs while enjoying this vibrant precinct.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lygon Street are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lygon Street is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Lygon Street is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Lygon Street hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.