Your Complete Guide to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne
The Shrine of Remembrance is a cornerstone of Melbourne’s history and culture, honoring the service and sacrifice of Australia’s war heroes. Aside from being a memorial, this architectural is a space for quiet reflection, learning, and connection.
Want to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s rich history and serene surroundings? The Shrine of Remembrance is your destination! Bring a sense of curiosity and your camera, and prepare for a day filled with breathtaking views and a peaceful connection to Australia’s past.
Where is the Shrine of Remembrance?
The Shrine of Remembrance is located on St Kilda Road, just a short distance from the CBD. Nestled in the Kings Domain Gardens, it’s a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush greenery and close to other landmarks like the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Things to Know about the Shrine of Remembrance
Contact: +61396618100
Operating hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission rates: Free
How to get to the Shrine of Remembrance?
By tram: Catch tram routes 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, or 72, and alight at the Shrine of Remembrance stop. It’s a quick and scenic ride from the CBD.
By train: The nearest train station is Flinders Street Station. From there, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk or a short tram ride along St Kilda Road.
By car: If you’re driving, the Shrine offers limited paid parking. Alternatively, park at the nearby Arts Centre Melbourne or Royal Botanic Gardens car parks.
By bike or foot: For the active visitor, the Shrine is easily accessible via Melbourne’s network of bike paths or a scenic walk through the Domain Parklands.
What to Do and See in Shrine of Remembrance
Take a guided tour
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Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM
Guided tours offer an in-depth exploration of the Shrine’s history, architecture, and symbolism. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the design inspired by classical temples and share the stories behind the memorials.
Tours often reveal fascinating details that might otherwise be overlooked, such as the alignment of the Shrine with Melbourne’s streets or the symbolic significance of the statues in the Forecourt.
Guides also frequently share compelling anecdotes about those who contributed to the Shrine’s legacy, which makes the experience more meaningful and immersive.
Explore the Galleries of Remembrance
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The Galleries of Remembrance is an immersive space housing over 800 meticulously preserved artifacts, interactive exhibits, and firsthand accounts that bring Australia’s military history to life.
You’ll be able to explore detailed displays that chronicle key moments, from the World Wars to modern peacekeeping missions.
Highlights include personal letters, medals, and uniforms that tell the intimate stories of soldiers and their families. Don’t miss the poignant trench warfare section or the wall dedicated to Australia’s Victoria Cross recipients—a moving tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Relax at the Shrine Reserve
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Adjacent to the Shrine lies the Shrine Reserve. It features meticulously maintained lawns, seasonal floral displays, and smaller memorials that invite visitors to slow down and take in the significance of their surroundings.
A particularly moving part of the garden is the Legacy Garden of Appreciation, dedicated to the families of fallen soldiers. The garden’s layout is both elegant and purposeful, with paths leading to plaques inscribed with heartfelt messages of gratitude.
Standing there, surrounded by nature, it’s hard not to feel a deep reverence for the sacrifices commemorated within this serene setting.
Step onto the balcony for panoramic views
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The balcony of the Shrine of Remembrance offers one of Melbourne’s most stunning views.
From this elevated vantage point, visitors can take in the city skyline to the north and the expansive Kings Domain Gardens below. You can even see the shimmering waters of Port Phillip Bay on a clear day!
Where to Eat and Drink near Shrine of Remembrance
Ayam Chef
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Address: 67-69 Coventry St, Southbank
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 8 minutes
Phone: +61396814480
Pricing: $
Good to know: Ideal for both family dinners and romantic date nights
At Ayam Chef, it’s all about celebrating the bold and vibrant flavors of Malaysian cuisine. This isn’t your average dining spot—each dish is a flavorful journey.
The laksa is a bowl of pure comfort. With its creamy coconut broth, tender noodles, and a perfectly balanced kick of spice, it hits all the right notes.
Not a fan of soups? The char kway teow is a solid choice. It’s packed with smoky wok hei, succulent prawns, and chewy noodles.
For something lighter, go for the Hainanese chicken rice. It features tender chicken and fragrant rice.
The Olive Tree
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Address: 19 Park St, South Melbourne
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 6 minutes
Phone: +61396999152
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Mon–Sun: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Good to know: Perfect for group gatherings or casual dinners
The Olive Tree is a haven for Mediterranean food lovers, serving dishes that are as satisfying as they are flavorful.
The lamb souvlaki is a standout. It has tender marinated meat paired with soft, warm pita and a dollop of creamy, tangy tzatziki.
Their seafood dishes are equally impressive—the grilled calamari is lightly charred to perfection, and the prawns are seasoned with just the right touch of garlic and herbs.
The Greek salad deserves a mention too. It’s simple yet vibrant, with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and a generous slab of creamy feta.
For dessert, the baklava won’t disappoint. It comes with flaky layers soaked in honey and spiced with a hint of cinnamon, making it an indulgent finale to the meal.
Peko Peko
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Address: 190 Wells St, South Melbourne
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 5 minutes
Phone: +61396861109
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Mon–Fri: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sat: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Good to know: A hit for casual lunches or low-key dinners
Peko Peko is a hidden gem for Taiwanese-inspired cuisine, offering bold flavors and comforting dishes that hit all the right notes. The popcorn chicken is a must-try—crispy, golden, and seasoned with a perfectly balanced mix of spices that make it irresistibly addictive.
Another standout is the crispy pork belly, with its crackling exterior and tender, juicy interior. It’s served over fragrant rice and topped with a savory sauce that ties it all together.
For noodle lovers, beef noodle soup is a hearty and flavorful option. It features tender chunks of beef, a rich, spiced broth, and perfectly chewy noodles.
The vegetarian options are just as impressive, with dishes like the tofu and vegetable stir-fry showcasing fresh ingredients and bold seasoning.
Trend Cafe and Restaurant
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Address: Unit 1/35 Coventry St, Southbank
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 7 minutes
Phone: +61391224122
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Mon–Fri: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Good to know: Excellent choice for everything from casual brunches to dinner with friends
Trend Cafe and Restaurant delivers a delightful blend of modern Australian cuisine with an international twist, making it a standout dining destination in South Yarra.
The menu offers a wide variety of options, from hearty breakfast dishes to creative lunch and dinner plates. One of the highlights is the smoked salmon eggs benedict, which features perfectly poached eggs on toasted sourdough.
Another crowd favorite is the signature gourmet burger. It features a juicy patty, fresh toppings, and a house-made sauce that elevates every bite.
The café also shines with its drink offerings. Their barista-crafted coffee is smooth and aromatic, easily one of the best in the area, while their fresh-pressed juices and mocktails add a refreshing touch to any meal.
Humbaba
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Address: 20 Dorcas St, Southbank
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 5 minutes
Phone: +61396967987
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Mon–Sun: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Good to know: Great choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Humbaba is a go-to destination for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.
The menu’s star is the falafel—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfectly spiced. Paired with freshly baked pita bread and their creamy hummus, it’s a combination that’s hard to beat.
For lighter fare, the mezze platter is a must-try. It offers a variety of dips, stuffed vine leaves, and chargrilled vegetables that showcase the restaurant’s dedication to fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Where to Shop near Shrine of Remembrance
The Strand Melbourne
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Address: 250 Elizabeth St
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 7 minutes
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Mon-Wed, Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thurs-Fri: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The Strand Melbourne is a sophisticated shopping destination in the heart of the city. It’s known for its curated selection of boutique stores and specialty products. It’s a haven for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.
One of the standout stores is ELK, which features contemporary clothing and ethically made jewelry. Crafted with precision and care, their leather handbags are a perfect blend of functionality and style.
Aquila offers beautifully crafted men’s shoes for those seeking unique footwear that exudes timeless elegance.
The Strand also caters to beauty enthusiasts with Mecca Cosmetica, where you’ll find a wide range of luxury skincare and makeup brands.
Where to Stay near Shrine of Remembrance
Quest on Dorcas
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Address: 8 Dorcas St, Southbank
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 2 minutes
Phone: +61396981500
Pricing: $$$
Quest on Dorcas is a modern serviced apartment complex that seamlessly blends comfort, practicality, and luxury.
The spacious layout and contemporary furnishings elevate the experience. Cozy living areas are equipped with large flat-screen TVs and streaming capabilities. A standout feature is the private balcony found in many apartments.
Quest on Dorcas also excels in its communal facilities. The on-site gym is well-equipped with cardio machines and weights, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routine effortlessly.
Saint Domain Serviced Apartments
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Address: 33 Coventry St, Southbank
Distance from Shrine of Remembrance: 3 minutes
Phone: +61385484667
Pricing: $$$
Saint Domain Serviced Apartments is a top-tier accommodation option in Melbourne, offering spacious, modern apartments with facilities designed for both comfort and convenience.
Each apartment is thoughtfully furnished with contemporary interiors. It features a fully equipped kitchen with a full-sized fridge, oven, stovetop, and dishwasher—perfect for those who enjoy preparing their own meals.
Many units feature private balconies with breathtaking views of Melbourne’s skyline, the Royal Botanic Gardens, or the Yarra River. Enjoying a morning coffee or evening wine on the balcony is a serene way to soak in the city’s beauty.
The location is unbeatable. It’s just a short walk from the Shrine of Remembrance and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and it is easy to access Southbank and the city center.