Southbank Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Southbank
Southbank
Southbank
Southbank
Southbank

Explore this eclectic neighbourhood, which features hotels, galleries, bars and a casino complex on the south side of Melbourne's Yarra River.

Whether looking for a day's shopping or a fun night out, Southbank offers an energetic atmosphere with plenty to do. This neighbourhood lies near Melbourne's business district, on the southern bank of the Yarra River. Stroll along the promenade and find your groove in its shopping precincts, its riverside bars or its extravagant casino.

Start your day with a coffee along the Southbank Promenade and watch the business district come to life. Capture photos of Melbourne's high-rise skyline and the Eureka Tower. Built in response to Melbourne's rapidly increasing population, this 300-metre (1,000-foot) tower is one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. Take the elevator up its 92 floors and marvel at the stunning city-wide views to be seen from Skydeck 88.

Back on ground level, book a show at the Melbourne Arts Centre and experience the city's rich drama culture. Admire prominent works of art at the National Gallery of Victoria and learn about the institution's long history. The nearby Victoria Barracks, a 19th-century government building, also offers an insight into the city's past.

Discover the Melbourne Maritime Museum Polly Woodside at South Wharf, on Southbank's western side. Inspect its fascinating buildings and ships, preserved from throughout the ages. The Convention and Exhibition Centre stands as a symbol of exceptional modern architecture and houses an art gallery within.

As the sun sets, sit at a wine bar and watch the romantic lighting reflect off Melbourne's skyscrapers. The Crown Casino and Entertainment offers shopping and amusement sections, alongside an expansive gaming room. Try your luck inside or watch a flashy fire show outside at night.

Southbank is accessible on foot from anywhere around Melbourne's central business district. Cross one of many bridges connecting the city to South Yarra. Alternatively, use one of many trams routes that run from north to south. Flinders Street Station, the city's main interchange, is a 5-minute walk from Crown Casino. Driving though the city is not recommended as congestion is common.


Stay near popular Southbank attractions


Our pick of the best Southbank Hotel Deals

The Langham, Melbourne

The Langham, Melbourne

5 out of 5
One Southgate Avenue Southbank VIC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$275 per night from 29 June to 30 June
AU$275
per night
29 June - 30 June
Stay at this luxury hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a full-service spa and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,282 reviews)
"Probably the best hotel in Melbourne. Will definitely be back"

Reviewed on 13 June 2026

The Langham, Melbourne
ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank

ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank

3.5 out of 5
167 City Road Southbank VIC
The price is AU$96 per night from 18 June to 19 June
AU$96
per night
18 June - 19 June
Stay at this hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (911 reviews)
"The bathroom design has no privacy"

Reviewed on 14 June 2026

ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank
Mercure Melbourne Southbank

Mercure Melbourne Southbank

4 out of 5
Corner of Southgate Ave & Riverside Quay Southbank VIC
The price is AU$124 per night from 21 June to 22 June
AU$124
per night
21 June - 22 June
Stay at this hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,008 reviews)
"Very stratigically close to CBD and yarra river. Close to Resturant"

Reviewed on 15 June 2026

Mercure Melbourne Southbank
Imagine Marco

Imagine Marco

4 out of 5
42-48 Balston Street Southbank VIC
The price is AU$140 per night from 21 June to 22 June
AU$140
per night
21 June - 22 June
Stay at this aparthotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,955 reviews)
"Beautiful views of the sea from the balcony. Nice amenities, heated pool, gym with a good variety of machines and weights. It's location is perfect, close to everything, restaurants, supermarkets, the Southbank Promenade, the Crown Casino, the freeway, and close to many other places. The decoration ..."

Reviewed on 14 June 2026

Imagine Marco
Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

4 out of 5
35-47 City Road Southbank VIC
The price is AU$152 per night from 13 July to 14 July
AU$152
per night
13 July - 14 July
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour fitness centre. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,013 reviews)
"Great location with amazing staff. We will be definitely back."

Reviewed on 14 June 2026

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG
Oakwood Premier Melbourne

Oakwood Premier Melbourne

4 out of 5
202 Normanby Road, 202 Southbank VIC
The price is AU$169 per night from 7 July to 8 July
AU$169
per night
7 July - 8 July
Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (989 reviews)
"Great stay, clean, nice rooms, wonderful view"

Reviewed on 14 June 2026

Oakwood Premier Melbourne
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.

Our guide on where to stay in Southbank

Find the best Southbank areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Southbank
Learn more about Southbank

Melbourne Central Business District

Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Melbourne Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Melbourne Central and Collins Street, and jump on the metro at Melbourne Central Station or Flagstaff Station to see more of the city.

Docklands

Travellers come to Docklands for its waterfront views, and you can see top attractions like Marvel Stadium and Collins Street while you're in town.

Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to URBNSURF Sports Park or Woodlands Historic Park.

Sorrento

Sorrento is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Sorrento Front Beach and Searoad Ferry Terminal.

Rye

Beaches, spas and hot springs are just a few things travellers enjoy about Rye. Check out Rye Beach or The Dunes Golf Links while you're exploring the area.



Southbank Travel Guide

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