Add dates

Things to do in Southbank

Our most recommended things to do in Southbank

Melbourne: 1-Hour Gardens and Sporting Precinct River Cruise

1. Melbourne: 1-Hour Gardens and Sporting Precinct River Cruise

Discover Melbourne’s highlights while cruising along the breathtaking Yarra River. Cruise through downtown Melbourne on this sightseeing tour and listen to the on board commentary that will point out passing attractions and provide interesting tidbits of Melbourne’s history. Enjoy an hour aboard the riverboat as you cruise under the Princes Bridge and past top cultural attractions. Marvel at the magnificent riverbank gardens from the outside sun deck or through the panoramic windows from the inside cabin. On this tour you will also see Herring Island, Princes Bridge, the governor's residence, the Victorian Arts Center, Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Olympic Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the National Tennis Center. Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea while relaxing and taking in the beautiful city sites. 

Melbourne: City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

2. Melbourne: City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

Embark on a sightseeing cruise along Port Philip Bay to Williamstown. Take in the views of the Melbourne skyline and enjoy insightful audio commentary on board as you sail down the Yarra River. Admire the skyline of Melbourne from a different perspective as you listen to the informative audio commentary. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city center and soak up the sun on the sun deck. Upon arrival in Williamstown, get the choice to take a break in Williamsport and visit the historic seaport, or stay on board and return to Melbourne. Linger in one of the cafés or galleries of Williamstown, known for its heritage buildings such as Customs House. If you choose to take the round-trip option, then just sit back and relax on one of the finest bay cruises on the return journey to Southbank.  

Melbourne: Birrarung Marr to Hamer Hall and CBD Audio Guide

3. Melbourne: Birrarung Marr to Hamer Hall and CBD Audio Guide

Find out what makes Melbourne tick on this walking tour through its vibrant CBD. I'm Mitch, a Melbourne local, and I'll be your host for this lovely little jaunt from Birrarung Marr riverside park to Hamer Hall. After enduring the world’s longest lockdown, the city is back and better than ever and I can’t wait to share it with you as we take in some of its lesser-known corners including Federation Square and the Block Arcade. Along the way, I'll introduce you to a few people who’ll share some interesting facts about the city and how it came to be. You’ll hear from Steve, a Gunai Kurnai man whose ancestors are the traditional owners of Naarm. (That’s Melbourne’s traditional Aboriginal name.) Jessica Paige, a street busker, will also share one of her beautiful songs with you. Other highlights in this tour include: • Learning about the flat white from its inventor, Salvatore Malatesta, who started St. Ali coffee • Riding the tram through the city while listening to the story of a 15 year old rascal who once stole a tram • Hearing from one of the first street artists to ever spray paint down the famous Hosier Lane • Deciphering the city’s official coat of arms • Discovering a few of the theories surrounding the disappearance of Harold Holt, the city’s prime minister from 1966-1967 By the end of this tour, you’ll be able to explore the city on your own just like any other Melbournite!

Other Sightseeing Options in Southbank

Want to discover all there is to do in Southbank? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Southbank

Overall rating

4.2 / 5

based on 293 reviews

Amazing experience, family friendly, beautiful views of and from Yarra River. Hosts was really good. Definitely worth it.

It was lovely … everything was done smoothly and on time .. liked commentary on board the cruise ! Thank you

It was very relaxing and the guy who did the commentary was lovely, had lots of information .

absolutely loved it definite thing to do very relaxing and lovely way to travel

Everything was on time and the staff professional and friendly.