Car Rental South Yarra Downtown

Ever wanted a holiday that keeps the attractions coming, all within a small and vibrant radius? When it comes to South Yarra, you’ve come to the right place. This style-conscious, upmarket suburb of Melbourne is popular with shoppers, diners, and those who like to loosen the purse strings a little - but it’s also budget and family friendly too. South Yarra’s lively downtown district is not just about living the high life. It’s urban treats for both the well-heeled and the down-to-earth. Pizza joints and smoothie shops rub shoulders with up-scale spots and innovative cuisine.

As its name suggests, South Yarra is located on the southern bank of the Yarra River, Melbourne’s key waterway. Keep in this neck of the woods and discover Prahran, Toorak, Windsor and Richmond – all great suburbs on both sides of the river. Hang out around here where it’s easy to people-watch, window shop, watch a film, or indulge a little. As one of Melbourne’s premier suburbs, some of the city’s ritziest white tablecloth restaurants can be found in South Yarra, plus glitzy bars and nightspots, designer label boutiques or vintage shops on the main streets. 

Jump in your hire car and get to know the length and best of Chapel Street, as well as Toorak Road. And in Prahran, experience Greville Street for its cool, creative touches, its iconic record store, and buzzy village vibe. South Yarra is also about culture; known for both its independent art galleries and its disciples of coffee culture. Slip off into the side streets and look out for emerging cafes surrounding Toorak Road. 

At the corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, the Como Centre invites you to shop, eat, then sit back and enjoy a movie at the comfortable Palace Cinema. Further up the road, the Astor Theatre is an iconic art deco cinema that plays art house favourites on a double bill. Have a choc top, or grab a quick drink at the bar next door. And if you’re looking for some quality Melbourne theatre, check out Red Stitch across the road. Between the two ends of South Yarra’s main drag, you’ll find the Chapel Street Bazaar: a fabulous jumble of curios and collectibles. Head next door to Revolver Upstairs when you’re all bargained out, and get stuck into top Thai food and DJs. Listen to beats and eat cheap, all within an arty American diner chic. And don’t forget the Prahran Market for food, from organic and sustainable produce, to home-cooked street food, and European deli fare.

Unwind in South Yarra’s green spaces with the ease of your hire car

South Yarra borders the Royal Botanical Gardens – a peaceful oasis to stroll through or pop in for a picnic. Enjoy a Forest Therapy wellbeing session, visit the gift shop, or grab a coffee and bite at the café. Another parkland that goes down well with the locals is Fawkner Park, considered one of Melbourne’s top five. Paths are lined with oaks and elm trees, as well as Australian native Moreton Bay figs. Have a game of tennis here if you’re keen to stretch your legs, or just relax in the art deco brick pavilions. 

For a breather with a difference, explore a charming artificial island in the middle of the Yarra. Herring Island Environmental Sculpture Park is a tiny nature reserve offering an art trail scattered around the island, and exhibitions in the converted Scout Hall. It’s also home to a summer arts festival. Come for a picnic or barbecue. Kayak, canoe, paddle board and boat your way to its shores. Or take the punt service from January to Easter.

Your hire car will help you discover the treasures of South Yarra  

Before your stay in South Yarra reaches a close, pay a visit to the stately grounds of Como House and Garden. Take a peek back in time and see how Australia’s wealthiest citizens lived in 1847. Everything under the roof is well-preserved, from servant’s quarters to family heirlooms. An artist-in-residence exhibits their work at the Como House gallery where the collection is also housed. The garden is one of historic significance, and like the house, is also protected by the National Trust.

Another grand National Trust mansion, Rippon Lea House and Gardens, is a 10-minute drive south in Elsternwick. Have a picnic on the lawn surrounded by a magical garden. Stroll the lake. Take a Bird Life Observation walk or a garden tour. Enjoy high tea while you send the kids off on the Gruffalo Trail. From the quiet life to the high life, South Yarra is a place with many faces – and all of them are bound to make you smile!