Melbourne’s South Yarra district represents the glitzy side of the city, in contrast with the grittier northern suburbs of Fitzroy and Collingwood. This fashionable neighbourhood, well-known for its high-end bars, restaurants and shops, is a fantastic place to visit and sample some of the best shopping and dining Melbourne has to offer. The area can be easily explored in a rental car, which will give you the freedom to see the sights at your own pace.
Explore Chapel Street
Chapel Street is one of Melbourne’s best shopping districts, a place where visitors can find the latest fashion and explore independent boutiques. Make sure to visit the iconic Jam Factory – a building that has been many things in its time. Once used as a brewery, it was then used to manufacture preserves – but now hosts a variety of things, including shops, restaurants and a cinema. It’s a symbol of Melbourne’s ability to constantly reinvent spaces and repurpose them for new and interesting things. Stop by here for a bite to eat, or catch a movie at the popular Village Cinemas.
Those looking for something a little more relaxing and tranquil will enjoy exploring the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens, a sprawling complex of themed horticultural exhibitions and lawns. History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Como House and Gardens, an estate dating back to the 1800s. Tours of the house run on weekends only, however the gardens are accessible every day of the week.
Hire a car in South Yarra to explore Melbourne's inner-south
Restaurants are common in the area, though Toorak Road is a highlight for lovers of fine dining. Those who enjoy the nightlife will appreciate the versatility of the area as it seamlessly transitions into a hive of activity come nightfall.
Explore Australia’s oldest food market
For the early birds, the Prahran Market has long been an attraction. Patrons of the market can expect to find high quality, fresh ingredients, including certified organic products. You’ll find a variety of fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy and sweets to choose from. The market also hosts a range of community activities, so you’re bound to find something lively happening when you visit.
Find food from around the world
No leisurely day in Melbourne would be complete without a relaxing breakfast or brunch. Start the day at Two Birds One Stone, a bright, airy cafe serving sophisticated breakfast and lunch, seven days a week. For a late lunch or early dinner, sibling restaurants Hanoi Hannah and Tokyo Tina are excellent, and both serve contemporary Asian food, that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
For more Asian food with a street food twist, visit Hawker Hall. Here you’ll find a menu that offers more than 50 dishes inspired by the hawker food found in Singapore and Malaysia, including beef rendang and fried squid.
Treat yourself to a shopping spree
Take a wander down Greville Street and you’ll discover a host of small businesses selling handmade jewellery, fashion and art. The shopping strip, which runs between Chapel Street and Prahran railway station, has seen a major redevelopment over the past few years. An old gentlemen’s social club has been converted into a barbershop, which now offers hot towel shaves, quiffs and contours. Australian brand, Aesop, has also moved in, and is on-hand selling its luxury skincare range to discerning locals.
South Yarra has it all. For the best way to see it all, jump in a rental car and hit the road.
Wherever you want to go, you’ll get there in a rental car from Hertz.
