Things to Do on the Yarra River in Melbourne

With an array of restaurants, bars, and parks along its banks, the Yarra River brings people together in Melbourne. Visit art museums, learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage on a river walk, or discover thousands of plant species at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Soak up the views from a Yarra River cruise or head to the iconic Arts Centre Melbourne, whose standout spire structure overlooks Southbank. Thrill-seekers can try the virtual reality plank on Evan Walker Bridge.

Take a Cruise

The Yarra River is emblematic of Melbourne—its cultural hubs, tourist attractions, and modern cosmopolitan atmosphere are centered on this waterway. Its sweeping bankside parks, national gardens, and sports stadiums serve as scenic backdrops for the city’s most celebrated landmarks.

 

Take a guided riverboat cruise to see the highlights and learn about the history of this iconic waterway. The Lower Yarra section of the river has been made especially accessible for boating, with low-roof vessels able to pass underneath the many bridges that span this section of the river.

During your river cruise, you might spot the brightly painted angel sculpture of Deborah Halpern at Birrarung Marr park, or the elegant spire structure of Arts Centre Melbourne, which houses several venues including the state theatre and Fairfax Studio. The renowned Melbourne Recital Centre, also within the Arts Precinct, has two theaters (Elizabeth Murdoch Hall and Primrose Potter Salon) hosting classical, opera, rock, folk, jazz, and contemporary performances.

Stop at Ponyfish Island, a top people-watching spot, to sip drinks such as the Mezcal-based Smoky Quartz or vodka-laced Kakadu Plum Fuzz while gazing at the tree-lined Southbank Promenade. For a unique holiday experience, book a special Christmas cruises and enjoy the festive decorations and seasonal cheer along the river. Reserve your spot now and make your holiday season truly memorable!

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Kayak

The Yarra River’s accessibility and magnificent city views make it one of the best places to kayak in Melbourne. Kayakers can explore the Yarra on their own or by joining a guided tour.

Whether paddling downstream past iconic landmarks like the Old Customs House, Turning Basin, and Melbourne Maritime Museum, or upstream to admire the Royal Botanic Gardens and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Yarra offers something for everyone. An expert guide provides informative commentary, enriching the experience with insights on the city’s history and culture.

The Yarra’s calm waters also suit beginner paddlers. Kayakers can explore the Yarra’s urban landscape at their own pace, and even stop to enjoy a drink on Ponyfish Island, a floating Southbank bar. While paddling, remember to give way to any craft moving down stream. Also adhere to all river markers and exclusion zones. For safety, a life vest is required for all paddlers. The Yarra River is an important cultural and natural resource for Melbourne and Victoria, so it’s essential to respect the environment. The Yarra Riverkeeper is the primary ‘voice’ for the river, monitoring its health and running educational tours to raise awareness of the need to protect this vital asset.

Canoe

The Yarra River is the heart of Melbourne, breathing gentle life into the city. Wander past its iconic and historical attractions on a river walk, discover the thousands of plant species at the Royal Botanic Gardens or take in a show at the Melbourne Recital Centre.

Alternatively, if you want to step back in time, take a 30-minute cruise up or down the Yarra River on one of the many vintage steam-powered riverboats. Choose from MV Grower, a 95-year-old ferry boat restored to its former glory or the art deco MV Eureka with a nod to the swinging 1930s.

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When canoeing on the Yarra, remember any craft moving down stream has right of way. Also, wear suitable clothing and be sure to abide by all the river rules and exclusion zones. Paddling the Yarra River is a fantastic experience for locals or interstate visitors and a great introduction to Melbourne.

Walk

From shady woodlands to sunny riverside promenades, the Yarra River offers scenic views and plenty of options for outdoor recreation. Take a leisurely stroll along the Southbank Promenade or the Main Yarra Trail to see Melbourne from a new angle, or pedal your way through the parkland surrounding the river for a close-up look at its natural beauty.

The Yarra River is a popular spot for walking, with survey data highlighting that people visit the waterway for walking, socialising/family outings, nature appreciation, and well-being benefits. It’s also an ideal place to exercise and enjoy the fresh air, without being distracted by honking cars.

The Yarra River is home to many cultural, sporting, and dining venues. For example, sip a cocktail on the floating Ponyfish Island bar in Southbank or admire the 10 sculptures that form The Travellers on the banks of the river near Flinders Street Station. Or, hike the 14.8-kilometre Mount Donna Buang track that leads from the Yarra River through mountain ash, tall eucalypts, and patches of rainforest with huge tree ferns.

Drive

Hop on a party boat cruise for a fun and scenic ride past famous landmarks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere on board or, if you prefer to captain your own adventure, rent an electric boat and explore the waterway at your own pace.

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The Yarra River cuts through the center of Melbourne and its CBD, providing a tranquil and urban oasis with plenty to do. Former Customs House is now the Immigration Museum, while Victoria’s Maritime Museum and the Melbourne Recital Centre are show-stopping venues for classical music, opera, rock, jazz, folk, and contemporary performances.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, take part in a charity skydiving event at the Moomba Festival in March, or jump on a speedboat for a thrilling ride across Port Phillip Bay. For more serene activities, visit a top-tier people-watching spot like Ponyfish Island, where you can sip cocktails including the mezcal-based Smoky Quartz and vodka-laced Kakadu Plum Fuzz while gazing at the tree-lined Southbank Promenade. The Yarra River is also home to Sculpture Park, where internationally renowned artists such as Andy Goldsworthy have installed spectacular artworks.

Alvin Lynch