Yarra Riverfront Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Southbank featuring a skyscraper, cbd and a city
Southbank showing a city, modern architecture and a bridge
Yarra Riverfront
Yarra Riverfront
Yarra Riverfront

Centuries ago, settlers developed Melbourne around this river. Today it is the heart of the city with bars, shops and restaurants lining its banks.

The picturesque Yarra River is the focal point around which Melbourne flourishes. Enjoy the river's beaches, try out a watersport or take a boat tour to one of the scenic islands. 

Go shopping at the Southgate complex which is situated along the river’s banks. Find upmarket shops, entertainment and restaurants here. Climb aboard a boat at Southgate or Princes Walk for a trip down the river. 

To the east, you’ll find a more rural setting. Take a stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens and stop at one of the many picnic and barbecue facilities. Visit Herring Island Park in the summer months by taking a Parks Victoria ferry and walk around the sculpture parks. This area is remarkably tranquil considering it is in the centre of a busy city. Take photos of the Melbourne skyline at sunset. 

Cycle along any of the many cycling routes or go kayaking along the waterways. Swim at one of the river’s many beaches, manned by lifesavers in the summer months. 

If you are brave enough, take a dip during the chilly winter months. If that seems a bit too cold, visit one of the numerous heated pools and centers. The annual Moomba Festival celebrates the cultural significance of the Yarra River to Melbourne. It takes place over Labour Day weekend on the first Friday of March. Head to the river then for firework displays and live music.

Before the arrival of Europeans, the river was used as a main meeting point for the indigenous people of Australia. As Europeans began to settle, they forced the indigenous population away from the river and gradually the city was built along the banks.

The river runs from the Yarra Ranges down through the centre of Melbourne and into Hobsons Bay. The main attractions around it are focused within a 1-mile (1.6-kilometre) section but parks and recreational attractions spread out for miles along its banks.


Popular places to visit

Activities


Our pick of the best Yarra Riverfront Hotel Deals

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG

4 out of 5
35-47 City Road, Southbank, VIC
Fully refundable
The price is AU$154 per night from 31 Aug to 1 Sept
AU$154
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"Above and beyond"

Reviewed on 30 Jul. 2025

Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank by IHG
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 31 Aug to 1 Sept
AU$275
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,165 reviews)
Great location
"Short break to watch the rugby. Excellent location on the South Bank and accessible for all attractions."

Reviewed on 3 Aug. 2025

The Langham, Melbourne
Crowne Plaza Melbourne by IHG

Crowne Plaza Melbourne by IHG

4.5 out of 5
1-5 Spencer Street, Docklands, VIC
The price is AU$215 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
AU$215
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Great location and easy access! Staff were super friendly"

Reviewed on 3 Aug. 2025

Crowne Plaza Melbourne by IHG
Hyatt Centric Melbourne

Hyatt Centric Melbourne

5 out of 5
25 DOWNIE STREET, Melbourne, VIC
The price is AU$204 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
AU$204
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (712 reviews)
"Lovely hotel, central to all amenities & transport links. First class service at all times"

Reviewed on 31 Jul. 2025

Hyatt Centric Melbourne
Quincy Hotel Melbourne

Quincy Hotel Melbourne

4.5 out of 5
509 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC
The price is AU$209 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
AU$209
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (647 reviews)
"Stayed in the"

Reviewed on 2 Aug. 2025

Quincy Hotel Melbourne
Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders by IHG

Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders by IHG

4.5 out of 5
575 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC
The price is AU$190 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
AU$190
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star business-friendly hotel in Melbourne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (731 reviews)
"Wonderful hotel. Nice, clean and modern facilities. Great location. Would happily stay again, and would definitely recommend to others."

Reviewed on 26 Jul. 2025

Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders by IHG
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.

Other neighbourhoods around Yarra Riverfront

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Southbank

Are you interested in stunning river views, first-class casinos and popular shops? A visit to Southbank might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Crown Casino and Melbourne Skydeck.

Southbank
Docklands which includes a bay or harbour, night scenes and a high-rise building

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.

Docklands
Melbourne CBD showing outdoor eating

Melbourne Central Business District

4.5/5(20,262 area reviews)

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.

Melbourne Central Business District
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South Melbourne

Travellers enjoy South Melbourne for its spas and zoo. Consider checking out South Melbourne Market while you're in the area.

South Melbourne
Carlton Gardens which includes a pond, a castle and a park

Carlton

Carlton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building while you're in town.

Carlton
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Albert Park

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Albert Park. You might want to make time for a stop at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre or Albert Park Lake.

Albert Park


Yarra Riverfront Travel Guide

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