Search hotels in South Melbourne

The suburb of South Melbourne is located two kilometres from the central business district of Melbourne. Formerly known as Emerald Hill, the area is just five kilometres from the beautiful, Victorian style seaside playground of St. Kilda Beach and home to the majestic Royal Botanic Gardens, world-class art galleries, and the popular and vibrant foodie paradise of South Melbourne Market.

A hub for lovers of gastronomy, verdant natural gardens and beach days out, South Melbourne has it all. The Royal Botanic Gardens showcase over 8,500 plant species which are displayed next to tranquil lakes and sculpted lawns for all to admire. Alternatively, spend the day browsing South Melbourne Market, with produce talks and tastings it is the ideal place to get a true flavour of Australian cuisine. For sports fanatics Melbourne Sports and Aquatic centre has it all, nestled in Albert Park this venue is home to several Olympic size swimming pools and multi-purpose halls for volleyball, basketball and badminton. Lovers of art should not miss a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria, and with an impressive 73,000 works of art on display, the gallery accommodates important indigenous works of art and a plethora of ancient artefacts. However, for a fun day out , a trip to St. Kilda Beach and pier is the perfect place for joyful pursuits. The Victorian seaside mansions, variety of restaurants and charming old world ambience will tempt city dwellers from all over the world.

South Melbourne is easy to reach from the city centre, at just over 2 kilometres away there are buses, trams, cycle and walking routes available. Regular trams run from the city and the northern river suburbs, with the number 96 tram route arriving at Melbourne Museum, the Sports and Aquatic Centre, South Melbourne Market and St. Kilda Beach. There are also frequent bus services departing from Melbourne CBD and several bicycle routes to enjoy.

South Melbourne is a fascinating suburb and was comprised of a single hill before the first Europeans arrived in the area and named Emerald Hill by Aboriginal tribes. The hill was used as a ceremonial meeting place at the time, with the rest of the area surrounded by swamps. Today, South Melbourne is a dynamic, important suburb of the city. Where once stood Emerald Hill is now a thriving, bustling streetscape of Victorian architecture, colourful markets, contemporary art galleries and lush emerald gardens.