Acland Street Village
Acland Street Village: Melbourne's sweet paradise and vibrant St Kilda hub, famous for its iconic bakeries, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere
Acland Street Village
Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Acland Street Village: Melbourne's sweet paradise and vibrant St Kilda hub, famous for its iconic bakeries, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere.
"The place is simply stunning with all varieties of food and drink at your asking."
🍰 Sample the Sweets
Don't limit yourself to one bakery! Try a slice from several to experience the variety.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover hidden gems is by strolling down Acland Street.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Bakeries & Dessert Shops
Acland Street
Indulge in world-famous cakes, pastries, and gelato. A sweet tooth's paradise!
Boutique Shopping & Galleries
Acland Street
Discover unique fashion, art, and gifts in charming independent stores.
Lively Cafes & Restaurants
Acland Street
Savor diverse culinary delights, from casual bites to fine dining experiences.
Beachside Proximity
Short walk from Acland Street
Enjoy the relaxed St Kilda vibe with the beach just a stone's throw away.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sweet Side
Vibrant Atmosphere & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍰 Sample the Sweets
Don't limit yourself to one bakery! Try a slice from several to experience the variety.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover hidden gems is by strolling down Acland Street.
📅 Check Event Listings
Look out for markets and festivals for a truly vibrant experience. 
🍦 Gelato Galore
With multiple shops, finding your perfect gelato flavor is a delightful challenge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍰 Sample the Sweets
Don't limit yourself to one bakery! Try a slice from several to experience the variety.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover hidden gems is by strolling down Acland Street.
📅 Check Event Listings
Look out for markets and festivals for a truly vibrant experience.
🍦 Gelato Galore
With multiple shops, finding your perfect gelato flavor is a delightful challenge.
🚗 Parking Patience
Street parking can be tricky; consider public transport or be prepared to search.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Acland Street Village is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, incredible array of world-famous bakeries, and diverse dining options. Visitors consistently praise the sweet treats, lively street scene, and proximity to the beach. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly recommended for its unique charm and culinary delights.
"Acland Street Village is a fantastic place to visit! It's spacious and has a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for a day out. I recently visited for the Cars Show Melbourne on Father's Day, and it was an amazing experience. The event was well-organized, and there was plenty of room to comfortably enjoy the show without feeling crowded. The street itself is lined with great shops and cafes, making it a wonderful spot to explore both during and after the event. I highly recommend Acland Street Village for anyone looking for a lively and spacious destination in Melbourne!"
G V
"St.Kilda is always the best weekend go to for either day/night visits.
By the day it has of good restaurants and retail stores.
My night plenty of cool venues/bars.
Very lively suburb."
Sophie Downward
"There is just not enough time or space to fully evaluate the goodness that is Acland Street Village. The place is simply stunning with all varieties of food and drink at your asking.
St Kilda has a 'vibe' all of its own - great atmosphere, great food, plenty to drink and the beach is just a 2 minute stroll away. Oh, and don't forget Luna Park.
Not only are there a host of first class restaurants, there are some handy takeaway options too. Where would we be without the Golden Arches?
As a full-on Beatles fan, having a drink at Abbey Road fills the heart and soul with so much joy. You simply must visit.
And for those with a sweet tooth, there is a large offering of superb delicatessens serving up a mouthwatering array of locally made sweet treats. The cheesecakes are something to behold!
My weakness is gelati ice cream (is that right?) and you have about 5 shops to choose from. My favourite is 7 Apples and their lemon sorbet really sucks your cheeks in - absolutely magnificent.
I truly could go on for hours, but the best thing is, if your haven't been there before, get your skates on and head down to Acland Street Village - you will not be disappointed, trust me."
John Boyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Acland Street Village is easily accessible by public transport. Tram routes 96, 16, and 3a/78 stop nearby, offering a convenient way to reach the heart of St Kilda. If driving, street parking is available but can be limited, especially on weekends.
Absolutely! The village is designed for pedestrian exploration. You can easily stroll between shops, cafes, and dessert spots, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Once you're in Acland Street Village, walking is ideal. For longer distances within St Kilda, trams are readily available. The beach is also just a short walk away.
Parking can be competitive, particularly during peak times and events. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using public transport to avoid frustration.
While there isn't a train station directly at Acland Street Village, you can take a train to a nearby station like South Yarra or Flinders Street and then connect to a tram heading towards St Kilda.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Acland Street Village itself is a public street and does not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
There are no general entry fees for Acland Street Village. However, individual shops, cafes, and any special ticketed events will have their own costs.
Most shops and cafes operate with typical retail hours, generally from morning to late afternoon or evening. Some restaurants and bars stay open much later. It's best to check individual business hours.
Yes, Acland Street Village frequently hosts free community events like Easter trails, art shows, and markets. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.
For ticketed events like 'Acland's Sweet Side,' you can usually book online through the event's official website or ticketing platform.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Acland Street Village is world-renowned for its incredible selection of bakeries and dessert shops, offering everything from traditional European cakes to modern gelato. You'll also find a wide range of cafes and restaurants serving diverse cuisines.
You're spoiled for choice! Iconic spots like Monarch Cakes and Europa Cake Shop are legendary. Many visitors rave about the sheer variety and quality of cakes available.
Absolutely! 7 Apples Gelato is a popular favorite, known for its unique flavors. You'll find several other excellent gelato and ice cream parlors along the street.
Beyond the sweets, Acland Street offers diverse dining. You can find everything from casual taco joints like Si Senor to international cuisine. Many reviewers highlight the great atmosphere and variety.
Yes, while some establishments are upscale, you can find more affordable options. Consider takeaway spots, casual cafes, or even enjoying a sweet treat from a bakery as a budget-friendly indulgence.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant storefronts, colorful cakes in bakery windows, and the general street life offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't miss capturing the unique architecture and any public art installations.
Definitely! The eclectic mix of people, shops, and the lively atmosphere makes it a prime location for street photography. Capture candid moments and the unique character of the village.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for your shots. However, the vibrant colors of the bakeries are appealing at any time.
Events like the Mother's Day Trail or Christmas decorations can offer unique and festive photo opportunities. Keep an eye on local event calendars.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses, especially if it might disrupt other customers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the sweets, the proximity to St Kilda Beach offers a great opportunity for outdoor fun. The open spaces of the village also make it manageable for strollers, and there are numerous cafes with relaxed seating. Consider a visit to nearby Luna Park for added family entertainment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring the street, enjoying the beach nearby, and attending free community events are all excellent ways to experience the area without spending a lot. Public transport is also an economical way to get to and from the village.
couples
Consider visiting during an evening when some of the bars and restaurants offer a more intimate dining experience. The nearby beach also provides a beautiful setting for a sunset walk, making for a perfect end to a day spent exploring the village.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sweet Heart of Acland Street
Beyond the classic cakes, the village also boasts a fantastic selection of gelato and ice cream parlors. 7 Apples Gelato, with its innovative flavors, is a standout, but you'll find numerous other options to satisfy your frozen treat cravings. This abundance of sweet options means you can easily spend an afternoon hopping from one delightful establishment to another, creating your own personalized dessert tour.
When visiting, don't be afraid to explore and try a slice from multiple places. Many visitors recommend a 'dessert crawl' to truly appreciate the diversity. The vibrant displays in the shop windows are a feast for the eyes, hinting at the deliciousness within.
Acland Street Village: More Than Just Desserts
The village also thrives with a lively cafe and restaurant scene, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee, a casual lunch, or a more formal dinner, Acland Street has you covered. This culinary diversity complements the sweet offerings, making it a comprehensive destination for food lovers.
Furthermore, Acland Street Village is a hub for community events and activities. Throughout the year, it hosts markets, festivals, art shows, and seasonal celebrations, adding an extra layer of excitement and local flavor. These events, often free to attend, provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the village's dynamic atmosphere and engage with the local community.
+2Experiencing the St Kilda Vibe
St Kilda itself has a unique 'vibe' that is palpable in Acland Street Village. It's a place that caters to both day and night, with a plethora of cool venues and bars that come alive after dark. This lively suburb offers a dynamic experience, from its daytime exploration of shops and eateries to its vibrant nightlife.
For those seeking a bit of classic entertainment, the historic Luna Park amusement park is also just a stone's throw away, adding another dimension to a visit to the area. The combination of the village's offerings, the beach, and nearby attractions makes Acland Street Village a well-rounded destination for a day out or a longer stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit