The Enchanting Yarra River: Melbourne's Serene Waterway
Discover the beauty and cultural richness of the Yarra River, Melbourne's iconic waterway perfect for relaxation, adventure, and exploration.
The Yarra River, an iconic landmark coursing through Melbourne, offers a stunning backdrop for scenic walks, boat cruises, and vibrant cultural experiences. As you explore its winding banks, you'll discover lush parks, historic sites, and a vibrant atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of this Australian city.
A brief summary to Yarra River
- Victoria, AU
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic trails along the river.
- Check the local events calendar for festivals and markets held along the river.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many riverside parks.
- Take a river cruise to gain a unique perspective of Melbourne's skyline and landmarks.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location in Central West, start by getting onto the main highways leading southeast towards Melbourne. Depending on your starting point, you may use the Western Highway (A8) or the Calder Freeway (M79). Follow the signs for the M1 towards Melbourne. Once you approach the city, take the exit for the city center and follow signs for Yarra River. There are several access points along the river, with popular spots being near Federation Square or Southbank. Parking may be available at nearby parking structures, which typically range from AUD 5 to AUD 20 depending on the duration of your stay.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transport, begin by boarding a train from your nearest station in Central West to Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station. This service is provided by V/Line, and tickets can be purchased at the station or online, typically costing around AUD 20-30 one way. Upon arrival at Southern Cross Station, follow the signs to the tram stop. You can catch tram number 35 (free tram zone) or tram number 1 or 3 to reach the Yarra River area, specifically getting off at Federation Square or Flinders Street Station. From there, it's a short walk to the riverbank.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to reach the Yarra River. Many towns in Central West have bike hire services. Once you have your bike, make your way to the nearest bike path leading towards Melbourne. Follow the bike trails that connect to the Yarra River Trail, which will lead you directly to riverside locations like the Royal Botanic Gardens or Southbank. Ensure you wear a helmet and follow local cycling regulations.
Discover more about Yarra River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Seville Estate
5.7 km
Discover the charm of Seville Estate, a premier winery in the Yarra Valley, known for exquisite wines, delightful dining, and breathtaking views.
Wild Cattle Creek Estate pm
7.3 km
Discover the beauty of Wild Cattle Creek Estate in Yarra Valley, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking winery views in a tranquil setting.
Badger Creek Blueberry Winery
7.7 km
Explore the unique taste of blueberry wines at Badger Creek Blueberry Winery, a beautiful destination in Victoria, Australia, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Riverstone Estate Yarra Valley
7.9 km
Experience the beauty and flavors of Yarra Valley at Riverstone Estate, where exquisite wines and gourmet dining await in a picturesque vineyard setting.
Pimpernel Vineyards
8.1 km
Explore Pimpernel Vineyards: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Yarra Valley, Offering Exquisite Wines and Scenic Views.
Tour The Valley
8.6 km
Discover the beauty of Yarra Valley with immersive tours, exquisite wines, and breathtaking scenery at Tour The Valley.
Bulong Estate Winery
10.2 km
Discover the enchanting Bulong Estate Winery in Yarra Junction, where breathtaking views, fine wines, and unforgettable events come together in perfect harmony.
Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
10.9 km
Discover the exquisite wines and culinary delights at Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar in the heart of Healesville's Yarra Valley.
Healesville Garden Grandview - Yarra Valley Accommodation
11.1 km
Discover Healesville Garden Grandview, the ultimate holiday home in Yarra Valley for groups, families, and unforgettable weddings amidst stunning natural beauty.
Hubert Estate
11.3 km
Experience the exquisite blend of fine dining, art, and culture at Hubert Estate in the beautiful Yarra Valley.
Giant Steps
11.3 km
Discover the essence of Yarra Valley's winemaking at Giant Steps, where exceptional wines meet breathtaking vineyard views in a serene setting.
Vines of the Yarra Valley - Wedding Reception & Function Venue
11.8 km
Discover the enchanting Vines of the Yarra Valley, where breathtaking landscapes meet exquisite event spaces for unforgettable weddings and gatherings.
2. Boat O'Craigo - Yarra Valley Winery, Cellar Door, Restaurant & Functions
12.0 km
Experience the exquisite wines and delightful cuisine of Boat O'Craigo in the heart of Yarra Valley, where breathtaking views meet exceptional flavors.
Meletos
12.2 km
Experience the best of Yarra Valley cuisine at Meletos, a charming restaurant and event venue with a focus on local produce and exceptional service.
Stones of the Yarra Valley
12.3 km
Experience the elegance of Stones of the Yarra Valley, a premier venue surrounded by breathtaking vineyards, exquisite dining, and nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Killara Estate
3.5 km
Discover the beauty of wine-making at Killara Estate, a premier winery in Seville East offering exquisite tastings and breathtaking views.
Morgans Winery & Distillery
4.7 km
Explore the beauty and flavors of Morgans Winery & Distillery in Seville, Victoria, a perfect destination for wine and craft spirit enthusiasts.
Rayners Orchard
5.6 km
Experience the beauty of Rayners Orchard in the Yarra Valley, offering fresh fruits, a charming café, and engaging events amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Coldstream Hills Cellar Door
6.5 km
Discover the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Coldstream Hills Cellar Door in the heart of Yarra Valley, Victoria, a must-visit for every wine lover.
Medhurst Cellar Door & Restaurant
6.7 km
Explore the flavors of Victoria at Medhurst Cellar Door & Restaurant, where exquisite wines meet culinary excellence in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Yarra Yering
6.7 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes at Yarra Yering, a premier winery in Victoria's picturesque Yarra Valley.
Payne's Rise Wines
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Yarra Valley at Payne's Rise Wines, where exquisite wines meet stunning vineyard views for an unforgettable experience.
1. Seville Hill
6.8 km
Experience the beauty of Seville Hill Winery, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking landscapes in Victoria's serene Yarra Valley.
Elmswood Estate
7.1 km
Experience the beauty of Yarra Valley's Elmswood Estate, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking vineyard scenery.
SOUMAH of Yarra Valley
7.2 km
Experience the finest wines and culinary delights at SOUMAH of Yarra Valley, where breathtaking views meet exceptional hospitality.
CherryHill Orchards - Wandin East
7.8 km
Explore the lush landscapes of CherryHill Orchards in Wandin East, where fruit-picking and stunning views come together for a delightful day out.
Squitchy Lane Vineyard
8.1 km
Experience the beauty and flavor of Victoria's Gruyere region at Squitchy Lane Vineyard, where premium wines meet stunning landscapes.
Healesville Sanctuary (Zoos Victoria)
8.2 km
Explore Australia's unique wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, where conservation meets adventure in the heart of Victoria's lush landscapes.
Upper Yarra Museum
8.2 km
Explore the rich history of the Yarra Valley at Upper Yarra Museum, where local culture and heritage come to life.
Levantine Hill Estate
8.6 km
Discover the ultimate wine and dining experience at Levantine Hill Estate, where exquisite flavors meet stunning Yarra Valley views.
Essential places to dine
il Vigneto Pizzeria Yarra Valley
8.6 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at il Vigneto Pizzeria Yarra Valley with stunning vineyard views and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Many Hands Winery
8.7 km
Experience exquisite wines and culinary delights at Many Hands Winery in Victoria's stunning Yarra Valley.
Sanctuary House Restaurant and Bar
8.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at Sanctuary House Restaurant and Bar in Yarra Valley – where local flavors meet unforgettable experiences.
Tokar Estate
9.1 km
Experience exquisite dining and fine wines at Tokar Estate in Yarra Valley - where nature meets culinary excellence.
No.7 Healesville
10.9 km
Discover No.7 Healesville: A premier dining destination in Yarra Valley with exquisite food and exceptional local wines.
Herd
11.2 km
Experience the best of Yarra Valley dining at Herd, where local produce meets exceptional flavors in a cozy setting.
Chachi Yarra Valley
11.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Chachi Yarra Valley, where culinary artistry meets stunning natural beauty in Healesville.
The Bodhi Tree Restaurant
11.6 km
Discover The Bodhi Tree Restaurant in Healesville - A delightful dining experience with fresh local ingredients and serene ambiance.
Eleonore's Restaurant @ Chateau Yering
15.3 km
Experience gourmet dining amidst stunning vineyard views at Eleonore's Restaurant in Yarra Valley - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
DiVino Ristorante at Mandala Wines
18.5 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine paired with exquisite wines at DiVino Ristorante in Yarra Valley's scenic Mandala Wines.
Fondata 1872
27.8 km
Experience culinary artistry at Fondata 1872 - where exquisite Italian flavors meet breathtaking views in Kangaroo Ground.
Greasy Zoes
31.6 km
Discover the heart of Australian cuisine at Greasy Zoes in Hurstbridge – where every dish tells a story.
Outback Family Bistro
31.8 km
Experience authentic Australian cuisine at Outback Family Bistro in Rowville – where family-friendly dining meets delicious flavors.
Archie's Farm Restaurant & Bar
32.1 km
Discover the best of Australian cuisine at Archie's Farm Restaurant & Bar in Scoresby - where farm-fresh meets fine dining.
The Roe Australia Restaurant
35.0 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of seafood and Asian flavors at The Roe Australia Restaurant in Glen Waverley.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods
4.3 km
Discover the best of Yarra Valley's gourmet cuisine at Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods – a culinary treasure trove for food enthusiasts.
Yarra Valley Truffles
6.4 km
Experience the exquisite taste of fresh truffles at Yarra Valley Truffles, nestled in Victoria's beautiful Yarra Valley.
Cortella
8.6 km
Discover unique gifts, toys, and treasures at Cortella in Yarra Junction, your ultimate shopping destination for all things special.
Benwerren Boutique
8.6 km
Explore Benwerren Boutique in Yarra Junction for unique second-hand treasures that support local causes and sustainable shopping.
Blackbird Avenue
8.6 km
Explore Blackbird Avenue in Yarra Junction: Your destination for unique metaphysical supplies and spiritual guidance amidst stunning landscapes.
Gladysdale Bakehouse
9.7 km
Experience the best of Yarra Valley at Gladysdale Bakehouse, where freshly baked treats and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
Yarra Valley Artisan Baker
11.0 km
Experience the charm of Yarra Valley Artisan Baker, where artisanal breads and pastries meet the stunning landscapes of Victoria's Yarra Valley.
Cheesemonger Sophie
11.2 km
Discover Cheesemonger Sophie in Healesville, where artisanal cheeses and local flavors create an unforgettable gourmet experience in the Yarra Valley.
EQ Saddlery Yarra Valley
13.9 km
Explore EQ Saddlery in Yarra Valley for top-notch equestrian supplies, animal feed, and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Victoria.
Little Yarra Design
13.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts at Little Yarra Design, a charming gift shop in Gladysdale, Victoria, showcasing local artistry and creativity.
Ride Time Yarra Valley
14.6 km
Ride Time Yarra Valley: Your gateway to unforgettable cycling adventures amidst Victoria's stunning landscapes.
Yarra Valley Hunting and Recreation
15.0 km
Visit Yarra Valley Hunting and Recreation for expert advice and a wide selection of firearms in the stunning Yarra Valley region.
Yarra Valley Cycles
15.6 km
Discover the beauty of Yarra Valley with Yarra Valley Cycles - your premier bicycle rental and repair shop for scenic adventures.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
16.3 km
Experience the ultimate chocolate and ice cream paradise at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, where indulgence meets local craftsmanship in stunning surroundings.
Yarra Valley Platter Co
16.7 km
Discover the flavors of Yarra Valley at Yarra Valley Platter Co, your go-to destination for gourmet gift baskets filled with local delicacies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cunninghams Hotel
8.3 km
Experience the charm of Cunninghams Hotel in Yarra Junction, where vibrant dining meets live music in a picturesque setting.
Watts River Brewing
10.8 km
Discover the art of brewing at Watts River Brewing, where craft beer meets gourmet pizza in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Grand Hotel Healesville - The Local
11.2 km
Discover the local charm and exquisite wines at Grand Hotel Healesville – a delightful pub in the heart of Yarra Valley.
Cavanagh’s Whisky & Alehouse
11.2 km
Discover Cavanagh’s Whisky & Alehouse, a top bar in Healesville offering an exquisite selection of whisky and ales in a cozy atmosphere.
Lulu's Bar & Burgers
16.8 km
Experience the best of Yarra Glen at Lulu's Bar & Burgers, where gourmet burgers meet a lively bar atmosphere.
Pig & Whistle Tavern
17.3 km
Discover the charm of Pig & Whistle Tavern in Olinda, a perfect blend of delicious cuisine, local brews, and a cozy atmosphere amidst stunning nature.
Lodge Bar
19.9 km
Discover the charm of Lodge Bar in Chirnside Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful local flavors in the heart of Yarra Valley.
The Budgie Bar
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of art, cocktails, and culinary delights at The Budgie Bar in Ringwood, Victoria's premier event venue.
Naught Distilling
33.8 km
Experience the artistry of cocktails at Naught Distilling in Eltham, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Bar None
41.6 km
Experience the best cocktails and vibrant atmosphere at Bar None in Camberwell - a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts!
Toolshed Bar, Bistro & Cabins
44.6 km
Experience the rustic charm of Toolshed Bar, Bistro & Cabins in Noojee, a perfect blend of local cuisine and cozy accommodations amidst nature.
The Bar Royal B-Side
44.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere at The Bar Royal B-Side in Glen Huntly, where great drinks and good company await.
Noojee Hotel
44.9 km
Discover the Noojee Hotel, where rustic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Victoria's beautiful countryside.
Arcadia Whisky Lounge
45.4 km
Experience the charm of Arcadia Whisky Lounge in Ormond, where exceptional cocktails meet a cozy lounge atmosphere, perfect for every occasion.
Surly's Bar & Garden
45.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional craft beers at Surly's Bar & Garden in Preston, Victoria - a true gem for relaxation and socializing.
