description: “18 March 2026 | Property Editor”
Getting Around Southbank
Southbank’s transport network makes it one of Melbourne’s most accessible suburbs. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city, or heading out for leisure, getting around is straightforward.
Train services connect Southbank to Melbourne’s CBD and outer suburbs. Peak services run frequently, with journey times to Flinders Street typically under 30 minutes.
Tram routes serve the main commercial corridors, providing convenient access to shopping districts, entertainment venues, and neighbouring suburbs.
Bus services fill gaps in the network, reaching residential areas not covered by train or tram. Many bus routes connect to major train stations for seamless city travel.
Cycling is popular in Southbank, with dedicated bike lanes and relatively flat terrain making two-wheeled transport practical. Several bike storage facilities are available near train stations.
Driving in Southbank requires attention to parking restrictions. Permit zones operate in residential areas during business hours, with timed parking on main streets. Updated 18 March 2026 | Property Editor
Transport Guide for Southbank
Southbank’s transport network is a model of urban connectivity, perfectly complementing its riverside lifestyle and cultural precinct status. As a Property Editor who’s watched Melbourne’s south side evolve, I can tell you that getting around Southbank and beyond is remarkably straightforward.
Tram Network: Your Best Friend
The tram system is your primary transport option in Southbank. Route 1 runs along Southbank Boulevard, connecting you to St Kilda and beyond, while Route 12 takes you through the CBD to St Kilda via Fitzroy Street. Both routes offer frequent service throughout the day. The City Circle Tram (Route 35) provides free travel around the CBD and Southbank, making it perfect for visitors exploring the area’s attractions.
Pro tip: The tram stop at Southbank Boulevard near the Crown Entertainment Complex is one of the busiest in Melbourne. During major events, consider walking one stop north to Clarendon Street for a better chance of getting on.
Train Access
Southern Cross Station is your gateway to regional Victoria and beyond. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Southbank’s northern edge or a quick tram ride away. Flinders Street Station, Melbourne’s busiest rail hub, sits directly opposite Southbank across the Yarra River, connected by convenient pedestrian bridges.
Cycling Infrastructure
Southbank’s flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes make cycling a viable option. The Capital City Trail runs along the Yarra River, connecting Southbank to the CBD, Docklands, and inner suburbs. Melbourne Bike Share stations are scattered throughout the area, though many locals prefer using their own bikes.
Walking Connections
The Southbank Promenade offers excellent pedestrian access along the Yarra River. The Evan Walker and Seafarers’ bridges connect Southbank to Docklands, while the Princes Bridge provides a direct route to Flinders Street Station and Federation Square.
Parking Considerations
If you’re driving, be aware that parking in Southbank can be expensive and limited. The Crown Casino complex offers paid parking, but rates can be steep. Many apartment buildings have secure parking, though spaces often come at a premium.
Transport Tips from a Local
- Peak hours: Trams can get extremely crowded during morning (8-9:30am) and evening (5-6:30pm) peak periods. Consider walking to the next stop to find space.
- Events: During major events at the Melbourne Convention Centre or Arts Centre, allow extra time for transport as services can be busier than usual.
- Myki cards: You’ll need a Myki card for all public transport except the City Circle Tram. Purchase these at 7-Eleven stores or train stations.
- River taxis: While not a primary transport option, river taxis operate along the Yarra, offering a scenic but pricey alternative to trams and trains.
Future Developments
The Metro Tunnel project, set to complete in 2025, will add a new underground station at Anzac Station near St Kilda Road, improving access to Southbank’s southern areas. This development will significantly enhance the suburb’s already impressive transport connectivity.
Whether you’re a resident or visitor, Southbank’s transport options make it one of Melbourne’s most accessible suburbs. The combination of trams, trains, cycling paths, and pedestrian connections means you’re never far from your next destination.
Featured Venues
- Rockpool Bar & Grill at Crown Riverwalk, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
- Pony Dining at 25-27 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
- Nobu Melbourne at Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
- Pantry Southbank at 1/109-111 Clarendon St, Southbank VIC 3006
- Baseline Cafe at 127-129 Southbank Blvd, Southbank VIC 3006
- Bondi & Bourke at 100 Southbank Blvd, Southbank VIC 3006
- Ponyfish Island at Southgate Pedestrian Bridge, Southbank VIC 3006
- Nando’s Southbank at 2/28-30 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
- Grill’d Southbank at Shop 1, 28-30 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
- Chin Chin at 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Nearby Southbank/CBD border)
Key Highlights
- Arts Centre Melbourne
- Eureka Skydeck
- Southbank Promenade
Suburb Vibe
- Food: 8/10
- Nightlife: 7/10
- Affordability: 6/10
- Transport: 9/10
- Culture: 8/10
Related Articles
Find more Melbourne content at melbz.com.au
More to Explore
Melbourne has so much to offer. Consider adding these to your list:
- [Venue Name] — [What they do], [Address].
- [Another Spot] — [What they’re known for], [Address].
The city rewards curiosity. The best experiences often come from wandering down unfamiliar streets and discovering venues that don’t have the marketing budget of the big names.