The Iglu Guide | Blog
Getting out and about in Melbourne
From coastal cool and countryside charm through to city treats and contemplative art, Melbourne is a city that is brimming with diversity. A seamless blend of cultural, urban and natural delights, there are endless places to explore in and around the city. If you’re lucky enough to be studying in Australia’s cultural capital, it’s time to get yourself out and about and make the most of everything on offer. Here’s what you could be missing.
Federation Square
Situated close to Flinders Street Station in the heart of the city, and less than a 30 minute walk from Iglu Melbourne City, Iglu Melbourne Central and Iglu Flagstaff Gardens, Fed Square is home to an array of cultural attractions with a daily program of events to suit all tastes. As the gateway to the Melbourne Arts Precinct, Fed Square takes the crown as the undisputed cultural heart of the city. Here, you will find three of the city’s major institutions: The ACMI (Australia Museum of Screen Culture), the Koorie Heritage Trust and the Ian Potter Centre (NGV). It’s a place to meet, support, hangout, observe or celebrate. With the buildings clad in a reptilian-style covering and the youngest ever to be recognised on the Victoria Heritage Register, Fed Square is impossible to miss. Enjoy the open spaces of St Paul’s Court and The Square, or take in a show at the Edge complete with riverside views. You’ll never be short of something to do in this iconic location.
Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens
When you need a burst of fresh air and some time to take in the natural world, there’s no better place than the Botanic Gardens. Situated less than 2km from Iglu South Yarra, once you immerse yourself in the 38-hectares of lush lawns, ornamental lakes and diverse plant collections, you’ll forget you were ever in reach of the city streets. With over 8,500 plant species on show from around the world, Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens are home to heritage walks, iconic features such as the Rainforest Walk and Fern Gully, as well as seasonal events and initiatives that include sustainability projects. Factor in The Tan, a 3.8km popular running route, and some stunning views, and it’s no surprise that locals treasure this much-loved Melbourne destination.
St Kilda Beach
Not only does Melbourne wear the prestigious crown of cultural excellence, she also packs a pretty good punch when it comes to beachside living. St Kilda Beach is just a short 20-minute bike ride from Iglu South Yarra and the perfect antidote to the stresses of student living. A haven for carefree beach lovers, St Kilda has a welcoming bohemian vibe that blends grunge and gentrification in equal measure. Stroll along the beachside prom, explore the endless beaches, perch in a café and watch the world go by, watch the incredible sunset over Port Philip Bay, or watch the penguins return home to bed at the end of the pier. There are endless special memories to create – which means you simply have to keep coming back for more. Just remember to pack your swimmers and don’t forget to slip, slop, slap.
Southbank
When you want to explore a different part of the city, Southbank is a no-brainer. Mixing high energy activities with relaxing entertainment amongst the natural surroundings of the Yarra River, there’s absolutely something for everyone to enjoy. Conveniently less than 2km from Iglu Melbourne City, Iglu Melbourne Central and Iglu Flagstaff Gardens, you can spend an hour or a day exploring the benefits. Home to the NGV and the Melbourne Arts Centre –Australia’s largest performing arts venue – as well as designer shopping, casinos, eateries, bars and more, it’s not a difficult place to have some fun. The lively riverside promenade is packed full of dining experiences, and there’s always a buzz, no matter the weather.
Hosier Lane
When you’ve had enough of the books and want to get out into the world, Hosier Lane is your perfect destination. Situated in the heart of the CBD, here you can experience world-class street art up close and personal. Featuring bold colourful artworks from renowned street artists from around the world, unsurprisingly, this is one of Melbourne’s most photographed spots. The art works change frequently keeping it fresh and relevant as they reflect the city’s evolving sentiment. A quick 15-min walk from Iglu Melbourne Central means you can either make this a one-stop destination, or part of a bigger laneway exploration. The choice is yours.
Cycle the Yarra River
Melbourne is a fantastically bike-friendly city, with an incredible 27km of kerbside protected bike lanes on offer, as well as many more dedicated bike tracks and on-road bike lanes. But there’s nothing quite like cycling along a river trail, feeling the wind in your hair (and helmet) and escaping the hustle of the city streets. The beauty of the Yarra bike trail is that you can go as far or as near as you choose. The Main Yarra Trail can be accessed at Southbank or Federation Square, and spans all the way through the North Eastern suburbs to Westerfolds Park. Those not keen to take on the full 35km effort can travel as far as is comfortable before returning to home base. There are numerous spots to rest and enjoy a drink or a picnic along the way making it a fantastic day out in the heart of the city.
