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Just 20 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, St Kilda offers a blend of bayside charm with a vibrant cultural scene. The beach, with its fiery sunsets and majestic palm trees, serves as an endless source of inspiration for numerous artists and creatives of all kinds.

Music, culture and nightlife lovers of all ages flock to St Kilda. Eclectic jazz bands perform in hidden laneways while DJs set the beat for beachside revelers. Top international artists, contemporary musicians, and acclaimed local talent share the stage in iconic concert halls and long-standing live venues, rich in history. Vibrant murals and street art honour the area’s creative spirit.

In summer, the St Kilda foreshore turns into a huge outdoor stage, hosting some of Australia’s most prominent live music events, including the St Kilda Festival, Australia’s largest free outdoor music event.

Diverse communities and prominent LGBTIQA+ culture add to the unique cultural landscape, while an abundance of restaurants and bars, including a lively alfresco dining scene, offer distinctive and diverse culinary experiences. Artist studios and cutting-edge galleries are complemented by the celebrated St Kilda Esplanade Market, showcasing the finest works from local artists against the breathtaking backdrop of Port Phillip Bay.

Getting to St Kilda From Melbourne BY CAR From Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, take the 30km drive on the Tullamarine Freeway/M2 towards Southbank. Take exit 2 for Kings Way and then continue on National Route Alternative 1. Finally, take Lakeside Drive exit to St Kilda.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT From Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, take tram 96. Alternatively, from Flinders Street Station, take trams 16, 64, 3 or 67. Travel time via tram is approximately 25 minutes, however, it can vary. For timetables, maps and fares to public transport disruptions, planning your journey and grabbing or topping-up a myki card, visit Public Transport Victoria .

BY AIR The Peninsula Express provides direct airport transfers between Melbourne Tullamarine Airport and St Kilda seven days a week. For more information, visit SkyBus .

TAC PAUSE STOPS If driving a long journey when visiting St Kilda, ensure you plan a TAC Pause Stop to rest and recharge.

Day 1 - Acland Street to the beach Explore Acland Street, St Kilda’s original beachside village, and surrounds – including the sparkling St Kilda foreshore.

CHECK IN An elegant Art Deco hotel steeped in local history with food, drink, and music at your doorstep.

The Prince Hotel , 2 Acland Street, St Kilda | From $195 per night

The Prince Hotel is a St Kilda institution. Built in 1937, it boasts luxe accommodation, a bustling public bar, an acclaimed wine shop, an award-winning restaurant, and a rooftop deck with views overlooking Fitzroy Street. It’s also home to the Prince Bandroom, one of Melbourne’s most iconic music venues, which has been hosting top international and Australian talent including the Ramones, Bonnie Tyler, the Avalanches and Smashing Pumpkins, for decades. Some of the venue’s most memorable shows are captured in a picture gallery on the Bandroom wall.

BREAKFAST Start the day right with a European-style breakfast at St Kilda’s newest brunch spot.

Al Naturale , 6 Acland Street, St Kilda

Just a few steps from The Prince’s front door, Al Naturale offers a fresh take on natural, healthy cuisine, using ingredients from sustainable and ethical Victorian suppliers. Feast on breakfast favourites and locally roasted coffee. Their house-made almond milk is a specialty. Don’t forget to stop at Black Star Pastry next door to grab a slice of their Insta-famous strawberry watermelon cake for later.

EXPERIENCE Explore the latest exhibitions at one of Melbourne’s most acclaimed contemporary galleries.

Linden New Art , 26 Acland Street, St Kilda | Free

Head up the hill to Linden New Art, a five-minute stroll through lush tree-lined streets dotted with striking terrace houses and vintage apartments. Located in a historic property with impeccably manicured gardens, the gallery showcases local artists, both emerging and established, in a year-round program of exhibitions. Over the summer months, the beautiful gardens host acoustic music sets every Sunday.

EXPLORE: CAKE AND CULTURE ON ACLAND STREET Famous for its old-school cake shops, independent boutiques, and alfresco dining, Acland Street village—running between Carlisle Street and Barkly Street—beckons with local charm.

Pause at Monarch Cakes , a historic café dating back to 1934, for coffee and a slice of their famous chocolate kugelhopf. Sit at an outdoor table to admire Rory Lynch-Wells’ eye-catching mural of international DJ Carl Cox, in the laneway next door. Indulge your sweet tooth by browsing the windows at Acland , Le Bon , and Europa Cake Shops, with their astonishing assortment of mile-high vanilla slices, cakes, pastries, and macarons.

Visit Readings bookstore to check out the latest literary releases. For music-lovers, there are vinyl records to dig through, and shelves stacked with art and music publications. Nearby, Beyond the Pale offers collectible limited edition posters featuring bands like Foo Fighters, QOTSA, Soundgarden, and Arctic Monkeys. It’s a three minute walk away, around the corner on Carlisle Street.

LUNCH Rest and recharge at this local favourite.

Sorsi e Morsi , 31 Blessington Street, St Kilda

Head right down Barkly Street, past Acland Plaza, to Italian eatery Sorsi e Morsi, a popular neighbourhood haunt, known for its pasta and drool-worthy gnocchi.

Make time to visit the scenic Peanut Farm Reserve , a few steps away at the end of Blessington Street. With non-stop basketball games at its public courts, local football, artist studios, and a monthly farmers market, it’s always a hub of community activity. Peanut Farm also hosts the Veg Out Community Gardens , which is a haven for many local musicians and artists.

The opposite end of Blessington Street, across the Barkly Street intersection, is known for its distinctive strip of hole-in-the-wall cafes and bars. It’s worth coming back later in the afternoon to catch a gig at Surabaya Johnny’s , a favourite with locals, hosting a mix of blues, roots, country and jazz bands.

EXPERIENCE Spend the afternoon at Melbourne’s favourite bayside playground.

ST KILDA FORESHORE Take in the sea breeze, sink your toes into the sand, or stroll the boardwalk at Melbourne’s most famous beach. Here, the action never stops with a never-ending stream of joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers, dog walkers, kite surfers, and hardy all-weather swimmers.

Walk along the St Kilda Pier for a striking view of the city skyline and St Kilda Marina. A few steps back from the water, Catani Gardens beckons with its sprawling lawns and rows of palm trees. Across the road lies Cleve Gardens, where beneath the sprawling canopies of ancient fig trees, the late legendary First Nations artists Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter used to create music together.

In the evenings, St Kilda’s cutest residents, the little penguin colony , come out to play around the breakwater past the marina. Book St Kilda Ferry’s Sunset Penguin Cruise to see them up close. It departs from the Pier on selected days at sundown.

Stop for a drink and admire the view at Republica Bar . Located at St Kilda Sea Baths complex, its beachfront seating has prime views of the passing people parade along the boardwalk. Inside, there’s a colourful courtyard with pub-style seating, with live music and local DJs on offer several days a week.

DINNER Make any day a celebration at this iconic venue.

Stokehouse , 30 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda

One of the best beachside locations in St Kilda, Stokehouse is a go-to spot for both upscale dining and casual beachside hangs. Grab one of their coveted outdoor tables to take in bay views, and watch the sun melt into the ocean. Or head inside for a relaxed beachy vibe and house-made pasta. Upstairs, a fine dining experience with unparalleled sea views awaits.

CATCH A GIG An intimate jazz performance in a cosy wine bar or top international and Australian artists at one of St Kilda’s most popular band rooms? The choice is yours.

Claypots , 213 Barkly Street, St Kilda | Free

Around the corner from where the Acland Street tram terminates, Claypots serves up the freshest seafood with a side order of live music. Live music happens regularly at their tiny wine bar next door, from its long-running Elvis show to after-dark gigs with Melbourne’s finest jazz and blues performers. It’s a raucous night out where the audience entertains as much as the tunes.

The Prince Bandroom , 29 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda | Ticketed

Looking for a big night out? You’re guaranteed to find it at The Prince Bandroom. Over the past six decades, it has attracted top Australian and international talent including the likes of Nick Cave, Lenny Kravitz, Billie Eilish, Doja Cat and G-Flip. Check out the program on their website before your visit to plan your night out.

Day 2 - Get outdoors and live like a local From neighbourhood cafes and bars to the most scenic walking spots, it’s time to live like a local.

BREAKFAST It doesn’t get more St Kilda than this beloved breakfast spot.

The Galleon , 9 Carlisle Street, St Kilda

There’s a true community feel at The Galleon, an enduring local favourite for over 30 years, known for its mismatched retro furniture, great coffee, and hearty breakfasts. The Galleon is a firm favourite of Cruel Sea frontman Tex Perkins, who has been known to belt out a tune, much to the delight of fellow diners.

EXPLORE St Kilda Botanical Gardens , 11 Herbert St, St Kilda | Free

A 10-minute stroll away, there is plenty to discover at the picturesque St Kilda Botanical Gardens, no matter the season. Walk through the gates to be greeted by rows of elegant palms and beautiful landscaped displays including local indigenous plants. Get lost in a sub-tropical paradise in the conservatory. Wander beneath evocative green archways and past mural-covered greenhouses. Count the ripples and watch the ducks in the ornamental pond and admire its striking ‘Rain Man’ sculpture. The immaculately manicured Rose Garden with its vine-covered Gazebo, is a key location for outdoor theatre in summer months.

LUNCH D.O.C. , 14 – 16 The Esplanade, St Kilda

Newly opened on the Upper Esplanade in St Kilda, D.O.C. pairs an idyllic bayside setting with authentic Italian dishes. Renowned for its Neapolitan pizzas, the menu also features home-style lasagna, tantalising antipasto options, and classic desserts such as tiramisu and cannoli. Head to their alfresco dining area in warmer weather for a golden-hour Aperol Spritz against a backdrop of palms, sea, and sunset.

Don’t forget to snap a photo outside the entrance to Luna Park while you’re in the area – it’s just a few metres away. In addition to being a location for an 80s Kylie Minogue video clip, it’s also home to the world’s oldest continuously operating rollercoaster.

EXPLORE Walk or cycle the Bayside Cycling Trail | Free

Begin : St Kilda Skatepark, Marine Parade, St Kilda

End : West Beach Pavilion, 330A Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda

Stretching from Elwood to Port Melbourne, the Bayside Cycling Trail is 11 kilometres of white sandy beaches, palm trees and stunning sea views. Explore the scenic stretch around the St Kilda foreshore by bike or on foot. Highlights include the St Kilda Skatepark, St Kilda Pier, Catani Gardens, St Kilda Marina, and the historic St Kilda Sea Baths complex. Venture further to the charmingly vintage West Beach Pavilion , a restaurant and bar located in a refurbished 1920s bathing house.

Soak up the sun on their expansive outdoor deck or on the sand at their beach bar. There are DJs on weekends so get there early to nab a spot.

For bike rentals, visit Just Pedal , conveniently located a five-minute walk from The Prince.

DINNER Spend the night at Melbourne’s most iconic pubs and music venues, with one of the best bayside views in town.

Hotel Esplanade , 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda

Hotel Esplanade (or ‘the Espy’ to locals) has been overlooking the St Kilda foreshore since 1878. The buzzing front bar has top-notch pub food and is a prime party spot on weekends with DJs until late. Grab a seat near its famous front windows or streetside beer garden for unbeatable views of Port Phillip Bay.

For a more luxe dining option, head upstairs to Mya Tiger for premium Cantonese food or feast on New York-style pizza to an Italio-disco soundtrack at Louey’s . For serious cocktail drinkers, take the elevator to their secret attic bar, The Ghost of Alfred Felton , for bespoke libations and charming, old-world service, with the best sunset views over the bay.

CATCH A GIG Hotel Esplanade , 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda | Free and ticketed

But it doesn’t end with dinner. As a live music venue, The Espy’s history has spanned multiple decades and generations. Catch a show at its famous Gershwin Room , which hosts a mix of established Australian artists, touring acts and themed music nights. Or see what’s on at the Basement Bar , a hub for local talent, with weekly nights devoted to live comedy, open mic, blues and up-and-coming bands. Cartoons of the local rock scene, drawn by local artist Fred Negro, adorn the walls. Don’t forget to check out the striking mural of Paul Kelly on its façade, one of Australia’s most influential singer-songwriters and a St Kilda local. His classic song From St Kilda to Kings Cross is the inspiration.

NIGHT CAP Make your Melbourne trip complete with a visit to this speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar.

Lady Peacock , 19 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Hiding behind an unmarked door on Fitzroy Street you’ll find Lady Peacock, a secret bar in the finest Melbourne tradition. Its turn-of- entury-showgirl-meets-‘20s-speakeasy interior is populated with old-world ephemera and luxe lounges. Potent house cocktails crafted around a femme fatale theme, a well-stocked selection of spirits, cheeseboards and other bar bites are also on offer.

Day 3 Hidden gems, foodie stops and iconic music venues. Explore the neighbourhood and get under the skin of a true St Kilda—and Melbourne— experience.

BREAKFAST Step back in time at Cowderoy’s Dairy, a charming cafe and milk bar tucked away in the back streets of St Kilda West.

Cowderoy’s Dairy , 14 Cowderoy St, St Kilda West

This hidden gem offers a nostalgic vibe with its 70s-style interior, jars of sweets on the counter, and grocery staples for sale. Tuck into dishes such as French toast, organic oats porridge, and chilli and chorizo scramble.

GET OUTDOORS Soak and steam in a vintage seawater pool or paddle into the horizon.

St Kilda Sea Baths , 10/18 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda | $15 pool entry

The St Kilda Sea baths harks back to a time when St Kilda was the beachside playground of turn-of-the-century Melbourne. A quick dip in their 25-metre seawater pool and aromatherapy steam room, set against magnificent views of the bay, and you will feel renewed.

For the more adventurous, hire a board or book in for a stand-up paddle boarding lesson at S UP HQ , to get closer to the waters of Port Phillip Bay.

LUNCH Elegant beachfront dining.

Donovans , 40 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda

Housed in a historic 1928 bathers pavilion, Donovans has been the go-to for countless Melburnians’ special celebrations since it opened in the late 1990s. Boasting an elegant beach shack vibe, its stunning dining room and outdoor terrace is right on the St Kilda Foreshore. The extensive menu features Mediterranean-inspired favourites made with the best seasonal ingredients.

COCKTAILS AND BEACH VIEWS Stylish rooftop bar and dining space with the beach as your backdrop.

Captain Baxter , 10/10-18 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda

Captain Baxter boasts breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere. Soak up the rays at their outdoor tables or grab a seat inside and take in the sights of St Kilda and Port Phillip Bay. House-crafted cocktails and local seafood are a must-try. Top DJs are a feature on weekends.

DINNER The Mexican Cantina the locals love.

Radio Mexico , 11-13 Carlisle Street, St Kilda

This vibey Mexican eatery has been serving hungry Melburnians for more than a decade. Start with tacos and crumbed and stuffed jalapenos. Order the ceviche, slow-cooked beef enchiladas, and roasted pork belly to share. There are plenty of vegetarian options and other dietary requirements are well catered for. The bar is a great place to watch margarita-making in full swing. It’s walk-in only and always busy so get there early or put your name on the waiting list and await a call.

CATCH A GIG Take your pick between two iconic venues, both showcasing top local and international acts amidst stunning vintage surroundings.

Palais Theatre , Lower Esplanade, St Kilda

Whether you catch a show or take in its historic façade, the Palais Theatre is a must-visit. A key hotspot for international artists and high-profile comedians visiting Melbourne, it has a long and illustrious history, with everyone from Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Midnight Oil, Crowded House and Kylie Minogue to John Farnham, Tina Arena and Tim Minchin having graced its stage.

Memo Music Hall , 88 Acland Street, St Kilda

Around the corner on Acland Street, Memo Music Hall is a stunning old dance hall reinvented as one of St Kilda’s busiest live music venues. With a heritage ambiance and superior acoustics, its history dates back 100 years. Well-known artists from a wide range of genres play here, including many familiar faces from the 80s and 90s. Memo Music Hall is one of St Kilda’s favourite candlelit venues, where Normie Rowe recorded the city’s first hit, Ain’t Necessarily So, in 1965.

NIGHTCAP Dogs Bar , 54 Acland Street, St Kilda

Nestled in the leafy section of Acland Street, Dogs Bar presents an eclectic mix of live performances. from rock and blues sessions to vibrant indie bands. Its outdoor tables are a popular local drinking spot.

Day 4 - Fitzroy Street from end to end St Kilda’s famous boulevard and its surroundings offer a compelling day-to-night adventure. Explore street art and boutique shopping in the adjacent laneways by day, then curate your night with celebrity chef-led eateries, live music joints in hidden laneways and secret cocktail bars.

BREAKFAST Stop for breakfast at one of St Kilda’s most coveted daytime dining destinations.

Fitzrovia , 2 / 155 Fitzroy Street

Fitzrovia’s streetside tables and artisan coffee are a draw for locals. The menu proudly showcases seasonal Victorian produce, with breakfasts stealing the show. The front counter, adorned with an abundance of fresh cakes and baked goods, offers great take-away options.

SHOPPING AND STREET ART

Indulge in retail therapy at the top end of Fitzroy Street. Explore homewares and bespoke gifts at Scout House or admire aneclectic collection of mid-century modern and retro furniture and homewares at Domestic Fantasies . Stop for a wine-and-cheese flight at boutique fromagerie, Milk the Cow .

Street art in laneways off neighbouring Grey Street highlight St Kilda’s creative history. Murals of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds as well as pioneering drag queen Renee Scott, by local artist Colin Sheppard, adorn Little Grey Street. Find them just a couple of blocks up from the corner of Grey and Fitzroy Streets. A hidden laneway just a couple of blocks away, named after the influential Australian guitarist and songwriter Rowland S Howard, boasts a remarkable mural paying homage to the artist.

‘Queen’, a captivating street art piece stretching the length of nearby George Lane, was recently unveiled as a tribute to Australian musician G-Flip, who grew up in St Kilda.

DINNER Feast on Italian fare and pub-inspired classics at this newly opened celebrity-chef helmed restaurant and bar.

Saint George , 54 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

A few blocks up from The Prince, Saint George is the latest venue from chef Karen Martini, the creative mind behind St Kilda venues Mr Wolf and legendary ‘90s venue Melbourne Wine Room. Freshly opened in the iconic Saint Hotel site on Fitzroy Street, expect a summer clubhouse vibe and an Italian-inspired menu, with lovingly handmade pasta and playful renditions of Australian pub classics.

CATCH A GIG Watch acclaimed Australian talent in this hidden bar in a street-art-covered laneway.

George Lane , 1 George Lane, St Kilda | Ticketed

Hidden in a laneway on the ground floor of the historic George Hotel building, the George Lane bar hosts an eclectic line up of artists ranging from Americana, roots, blues to country, rock and folk. Many established local artists perform here. On your way in, take a second look at new street art mural Queen, which lights up at night, and peer upstairs to the majestic reception centre that was once the famous Seaview Ballroom, where Melbourne punk music began in the late 1970s.

NIGHTCAP Keep the party going at this late-night watering hole.

Freddie Wimpoles , 125 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Named after an early mayor of St Kilda, Freddie Wimpoles is a beloved late-night spot among locals, renowned for its craft beer and cocktail bar. With daily happy hours and heaps of dining deals, it’s affordable with a great atmosphere and free live music several days a week. Situated within the historic George building, it shares space with the famed George Ballroom , an iconic part of St Kilda’s music history.

Plan Your Visit Don't miss these key events if you vist while they're on.

Midsumma Pride March | Free St Kilda Blues Festival | Free St Kilda Festival | Free St Kilda Film Festival | Ticketed Looking For More ACCOMMODATION

Cosmopolitan Hotel | From $119 per night Quest St Kilda Bayside | From $211 per night Saint Kilda Beach Hotel | From $119 per night Selina St Kilda | From $101 per night Tolarno Hotel | From $67 per night RESTAURANTS Bistro Voliere Cafe Di Stasio Cicciolina Flour Child Prince Dining Room ARTS AND CULTURE Alex Theatre | Ticketed National Theatre | Ticketed St Kilda Esplanade Market | Free Victorian Pride Centre | Free Want More? Explore the live music history of St Kilda with Patrick Donovan, former CEO of Music Victoria.

Take a look at just some of the groove St Kilda has to offer here [Video].

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Planning a staycation? Here's the ultimate guide to spending 4 days in St Kilda.

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