The Iglu Guide | Blog
Melbourne’s most iconic neighbourhoods
Globally recognised as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has got the cool factor all sewn up. Factor in world leading universities, internationally acclaimed food and coffee to dream about, and it’s really no surprise that over 300,000 students flock to call Melbourne home. The city itself is made up of many different suburbs, each with their own unique personality and charm that all add up to one vibrant city. Here’s five of the most iconic Melbourne neighbourhoods that deserve your full attention and refuse to go unnoticed.
1. Fitzroy
Fitzroy was Melbourne’s first planned suburb, and was developed back in 1839. Today, Fitzroy combines that magical combination of charm, personality, and attitude that have put it firmly on the iconic map. With just 3.5 square kilometres to spare, this compact suburb packs a mighty punch and has firmly established itself as the cultural heart of the inner city. The sheer volume of street art alone has been likened to strolling around a free public gallery. Throw in the thriving bar, pub and dining scene, boutique shopping, vintage finds and farmer’s markets and you might be forgiven for never leaving.
If you’re after something a little different or off-beat, you’re certain to find it in Fitzroy. It’s the place to see and be seen, yet it retains an enduring authenticity that has persisted throughout gentrification – making it a popular destination for Melbourne’s large student population. And at just over a 10-minute bike ride from Iglu Melbourne City, Iglu Melbourne Central, and Iglu Flagstaff Gardens, all the benefits of Fitzroy can be sampled at your leisure.
2. St Kilda
Putting the sea firmly into ‘iconic’, St Kilda is the city’s ironic response to Bondi Beach – positioned in a uniquely Melbournian way. Once a seaside resort reserved for the rich and famous, today St Kilda has her roots grounded in bohemia and inclusivity, with trendy cafés and super cool eateries rubbing shoulders with backpacker hostels and rustic bars. St Kilda epitomises Melbourne’s talent for making the most of every opportunity, whatever is thrown at you. Admittedly, at first sight St Kilda beach might not be the most spectacular in the country (looking at you, Sydney), but factor in an impressive dining scene, buzzing nightlife, boutique finds and brunch to die-for, and suddenly we have an icon in our midst.
Just 20-minutes from the CBD, this suburb oozes the laidback vibes of beachside living, but loses none of the Melbourne cool from the heart of the city. Here, the options are as diverse as your attitude. Watch the sun set over the water, observe St Kilda’s very own penguin colony, take a dip in the ocean, browse the beachside shops, or sample the dining scene. And all just a 20-minute cycle ride from Iglu South Yarra.
3. South Yarra
Perhaps best known to students for the iconic entertainment strip that is uniquely Chapel Street, South Yarra has plenty more delights up her sleeve to impress new visitors. Once the domain of the more affluent set, drawn to the spacious properties and high-end shops on Toorak Road, recent times have seen a huge influx of younger residents.
Located close to the CBD but retaining an attractive village feel, South Yarra has an extensive array of eating options available, as well as cool bars and club venues which makes for a vibrant party scene. Foodies will enjoy the delectable offerings at the renowned Prahran Market and students will eat up the diversity of activities available on Chapel Street, with its lively mix of shopping, bars, clubs and late night options. And with the nearby Botanical Gardens on hand, there really is something for everyone. It is extremely well-serviced by public transport, but for those lucky student residents of Iglu South Yarra, everything is right there for you on your doorstep.
4. Carlton
For a truly authentic slice of Italy without the expensive flight cost, head on over to Carlton and immerse yourself in the Italian heritage that permeates this Melbourne suburb. Stylish, cultured and brimming with European-style confidence, this diverse neighbourhood is a true Melbourne icon that thrives on celebrating the here and now over a strong coffee and a tiramisu. Whilst it’s difficult to move for Italian foodie joints, there’s plenty more to do and see once you’ve left the pulsating Italian artery that is Lygon Street. From shopping and movies to museums and architecture, Carlton is also home to the University of Melbourne , and so it’s no surprise that students have had a big hand in shaping the feel of the suburb. Situated just over 1k from Iglu Melbourne Central, and the undisputed birthplace of café culture, what’s not to love?
5. South Melbourne
One of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs, South Melbourne epitomises the classic Melbourne lifestyle. It all centres around café culture, delicious eateries, leafy streets and heritage architecture. Victorian buildings and elegant houses line the streets, reminiscent of a grandiose past, and adding a historical charm to this pretty neighbourhood.
With the CBD less than 3km away, and the beachy glam of St Kilda just a short tram ride away, this is convenience living on tap. But that’s no reason not to hang around. South Melbourne has a thriving foodie scene that reflects her cosmopolitan vibe, and it successfully caters to traditional and modern palates without a fuss. From old school cafés to trendy brunch spots, there’s new arrivals popping up every day because coffee obsession is an actual thing in this charming neighbourhood. But nothing beats the fresh produce and unique food available at South Melbourne Market, one of the oldest markets in the city that dates way back to 1867. South Melbourne is situated just 30 minutes from Iglu Melbourne City, and Iglu Melbourne Central, and has well earned her place as a truly iconic Melbourne suburb where families have lived happily for generations.
