Sprawling along the south bank of the Yarra River, this upscale suburb is the setting for some of Melbourne’s most prestigious addresses. It’s home to the lively commercial thoroughfares of Toorak Road and Chapel Street, where you’ll find upmarket retail stores and eateries, as well as the foodie’s paradise that is Prahran Market.
Things to do in South Yarra
One of South Yarra’s most elegant residences is Como House, which was built in 1847 for the Victorian judge, Sir Edward Eyre Williams. It was also here that The Seekers’ filmed their music video covering the Malvina Reynolds lullaby “Mornington Ride”. Join one of the National Trust-run tours to explore the period-furnished interior and stroll through the landscaped grounds, then grab coffee and cake at the garden cafe.
You can get your retail fix on Chapel Street, which stretches north to south through South Yarra. It’s lined with designer clothing boutiques, second-hand stores and eclectic cafes, as well as relaxed bars that come to life after dark. While strolling the area, be sure to admire the 1861 Prahran Town Hall and browse the art exhibitions of Chapel Off Chapel before relaxing amidst the greenery of the Grosvenor Street Playground.
For fresh produce and ready-to-eat treats, head to the bustling Prahran Market, which has occupied its ornately decorated building since 1891. In addition to fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and seafood, you can find a wide range of deli specialties, cheeses and bread. There are also several cafes within the market serving breakfast and lunch.
Getting around South Yarra
South Yarra is around 15 minutes’ drive from the Melbourne CBD and 30 minutes from Melbourne Airport. Trains connect to the South Yarra and Hawksburn railway stations. Both buses and trams travel throughout South Yarra and connect most of its attractions.