Summary
Experiencing travel by tram presents a delightful combination of nostalgic charm and economical practicality. In Melbourne, Australia, utilizing this local transportation icon is one of the most effective methods to navigate a vast city renowned for its culinary offerings and cultural richness.
Melbourne boasts the world’s largest light rail network, featuring 24 tram routes that permeate the urban landscape. To assist you in your exploration, below are three self-guided tram tours, each emphasizing the city’s premier cultural sites, dining options, and leisure spots along the route.
While these tours can be completed in approximately one hour without interruptions, it is advisable to allocate an entire day to savor a more relaxed pace. Tram stop numbers are indicated at each transit stop, providing a useful reference for keeping track of your journey. Procure a Myki card for $6 and load it with an additional $10.60 per day to accommodate the daily fare cap, allowing for seamless travel.
Tram no. 96 from St Kilda to Brunswick East
Distance: 13.9 kilometers (8.6 miles)
This tram journey transports you from the coastal area of St Kilda through the heart of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), eventually reaching the trendy residential neighborhoods of the inner north. It showcases some of Melbourne’s most significant public institutions, blending culture, gastronomy, and specialty shopping.
Stop 139: Acland Street
Tram 96 embarks from the vibrant Acland Street shopping avenue, renowned for its enticing cake shop displays. Should you feel peckish, consider dining at the vegetarian establishment Sister of Soul, followed by dessert at Europa. After replenishing your energy for the journey ahead, board the tram at its originating point and savor the views as it glides past the iconic historic Luna Park.
Stop 127: South Melbourne
Disembark here to explore the South Melbourne Market, operating at this location since 1867. Delight your palate with a pastry from the French pastry shop Agathé, savor a flat white from Padre Coffee, or enjoy a “dimmy” from South Melbourne Market Dim Sims; these crispy deep-fried snacks are a local favorite.
Stop 124A: Casino/MCEC
If your appetite persists, you have plenty of culinary options here: turn left towards the eateries of South Wharf, or right for dining establishments overlooking the Yarra River. A favored spot for refreshments is Boatbuilders Yard, followed by a visit to the current digital art exhibit at The Lume.
Stop 5: Bourke Street Mall
Tram 96 traverses the center of Melbourne’s CBD, providing access to major department stores, independent fashion boutiques, and the popular shopping destination Emporium Melbourne. For hidden wonders, seek out Hareruya Pantry, which offers inventive Japanese-inspired gelati crafted with ingredients such as matcha and yuzu.
Stop 11: Melbourne Museum
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Carlton Gardens, featuring the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building, leading you to the Melbourne Museum. This extensive modern facility encompasses various realms including history, science, nature, and First Nations histories through dedicated exhibitions. Nearby on Gertrude Street, you can discover Rocco’s Bologna Discoteca, known for its exceptional meatball sub.
Stop 14: Rose Street
A brief walk leads you to the weekend-only Rose Street Artists’ Market, which hosts various artisan stalls within a retro industrial space. This vibrant setting is sure to present unique and memorable finds among art, home goods, clothing, jewelry, and handcrafted items for sale.
Stop 23: Blyth Street
From the northern terminus of Tram 96, head right to reach CERES. This public park encompasses an urban farm and community garden, established on the site of a former quarry, which has transformed it into a tranquil natural area amidst the urban environment. Savor a meal or beverage at the on-site café, and take a stroll along the adjoining Merri Creek Trail to enhance your experience of nature.
Tram no. 6 from Brunswick to Glen Iris
Distance: 19.2 kilometers (11.9 miles)
This route is ideal for food enthusiasts, initiating your day in the city’s trendy northern region before venturing through Melbourne’s city center and discovering its affluent neighborhoods.
Stop 132: Sydney Road
Tram 6 begins its route adjacent to Moreland railway station and heads eastward. In this vibrant intersection, you encounter lively pubs like the Hotel Lombardo, famed for its pizza menu, alongside Middle Eastern delights such as the Lebanese pastries from Shawbak Bakery.
Stop 125: Blyth Street to stop 120: Brunswick Road
As Tram 6 veers south towards Lygon Street in Brunswick East, it traverses a stretch lined with popular neighborhood bars, including Mr Wilkinson (named after an early settler) and the sing-along ambiance of the Piano Bar. Further south, you will discover delightful Polish establishment Eat Pierogi Make Love, Tawooq for mouth-watering falafel and shawarma, and 400 Gradi, renowned for its Naples-style pizza.
Stop 1: Melbourne University
Tram 6 weaves its way between Melbourne University and the renowned Italian restaurant district in Carlton. The university grounds merit exploration, while Lygon Street offers numerous choices including the rooftop bar Johnny’s Green Room and Brunetti, a sprawling café known for its elaborate Italian-style cakes, creating a magnificent display. Nearby, Cinema Nova presents an eclectic arthouse experience, and La Mama remains a bastion of indie theater.
Stop 8: Melbourne Central to stop 13: Flinders Street Station
Traversing south through the CBD, Tram 6 passes majestic historical buildings such as the State Library of Victoria (Stop 8), the Melbourne Town Hall (Stop 11), and St Paul’s Cathedral (Stop 11).
Disembark at this juncture to walk the streets or simply admire the array of cultural landmarks as you ride. Stop 13 allows access to the iconic Flinders Street Station, along with the contemporary attractions at Federation Square, which features the NGV Australia, ACMI, and the Koorie Heritage Trust.
Stop 14: Arts Precinct to stop 19: Shrine of Remembrance
Melbourne is celebrated for its dynamic arts scene; adjacent to Stop 14, you’ll find Arts Centre Melbourne and the prominent art museum NGV International. Continuing to Stop 19, explore the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens and the Shrine of Remembrance. You may choose to disembark at the Arts Centre and enjoy a scenic walk towards the Shrine or remain onboard to appreciate the architecture as you travel.
Stop 31: Chapel Street
As Tram 6 proceeds eastward, it crosses Chapel Street, renowned for its fashion boutiques. The quirky Chapel Street Bazaar offers a delightful array of collectibles from toys to homewares, including kitsch and retro items. Nearby, indulge in a delectable Shanghai-inspired Chinese dining experience at David’s.
Stop 40: Armadale Station to stop 44: Glenferrie Road
As Tram 6 ventures further east along High Street in Armadale, it enters an upscale shopping district. Browse through stylish boutiques offering antiques, artwork, and vintage posters, then savor your sophisticated finds over an artisanal sandwich at Ruben’s Deli, being careful not to spill any condiments!
Tram no. 70 from the Docklands to Burwood
Distance: 16.5 kilometers (10.2 miles)
Discover the grittier aspects of Melbourne’s core while also visiting centers of athletic excellence, culminating in a glimpse of suburban life in lush neighborhoods featuring beautiful historical residences—locations seldom frequented by tourists—on this self-guided tram exploration of the eastern sector of the city.
Stop D11: Waterfront City to stop D3: Stadium Precinct
Your journey on Tram 70 begins in Docklands, a revitalized former industrial region. Along Victoria Harbour, you will discover various eateries with scenic waterfront views, like Cargo Bar and the Indian establishment Bhoj. As the tram maneuvers around the harbor’s east side, it passes by Marvel Stadium, renowned as a venue for major sporting events and concerts.
Stop 4: Flinders Street Station (Elizabeth Street)
Utilize the pedestrian underpass at the station to reach the northern bank of the Yarra River. Here you will find the vibrant bar Arbory, which features a popular summer extension called Afloat. Continue west towards Sandridge Bridge, a historic railway bridge adorned with fascinating sculptures and glass panels that commemorate the history of immigration.
Stop 7C: MCG/John Cain Arena
This stop is strategically positioned between the tennis courts of Melbourne Park, home to the Australian Open, and the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. This venue not only hosts sporting events but also houses the Australian Sports Museum and facilitates significant concerts; in 2024, Taylor Swift performed here before an unprecedented live audience of 96,000 attendees. If you do not plan to visit the museum or attend an event, remain on board and appreciate the close proximity of these remarkable venues.
Stop 9: Lennox Street to stop 11: East Richmond Station
The Swan Street shopping district in Richmond exudes a charming village atmosphere. At its western end, the Corner Hotel is well-known for its lively music scene, while at the eastern end, Bahari pays homage to Richmond’s post-war immigrant legacy by offering contemporary Greek cuisine.
Stop 29: Riversdale Junction
This stop is conveniently located near the Melbourne Tram Museum, which features trams dating back to the 19th century. This museum is a captivating destination for railway enthusiasts and accessible, with an entry fee of just $1 or $2. Be mindful to plan accordingly, as it operates only a few days each month.
Stop 40: Camberwell Junction
The highlight of this bustling intersection is the Rivoli Cinema. Originally opened in 1940 as an opulent Art Deco cinema, it continues to showcase films today. Treat yourself to a chocolate-topped ice cream, known locally as “choc tops,” while enjoying a movie in retro elegance.
Stop 58: Wattle Park
This expansive green oasis marks the end of Tram 70’s route, created in the 1920s to provide recreational opportunities for tram passengers. Leafy Wattle Park is home to over 50 native bird species, including kookaburras, lorikeets, and cockatoos. Wander along its winding paths and experience a serene escape from the urban hustle, made possible by the tram.
