Federation Square
Federation Square is Melbourne's striking city square, on the edge of the Yarra River and across the road from Flinders Street Station. The size of an entire city block, Fed Square brings together a creative mix of attractions including leading-edge galleries, cinemas, award-winning restaurants, cafes and bars, events and festivals and grand public open spaces embraced by some of the most unique and striking architecture in the world.
Cultural institutions
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia presents the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of Australian art in the world, including galleries dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
The first centre of its kind in the world, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is dedicated to the moving image in all its forms – film, TV, games, new media and screen-based art.
Discover the best of contemporary Australian art at the Australian Commercial Galleries Association (ACGA).
Dining and events
The Square's cultural attractions are supported by some of the best restaurants, cafes and bars in Melbourne. From espresso bars and burger grills to Northern Chinese and authentic Australian cuisine, there's something to suit all tastes and budgets.
Host to over 2000 events each year, Federation Square buzzes with cultural festivals, exhibitions, event launches, performances, forums, films, concerts and fashion shows.
Tours and information hub
Federation Square's unique position, nature and design is makes it a 'must see' destination of Victoria. It is also the logical point from which visitors begin their exploration of all that Melbourne has to offer.
Federation Square is the home of the Melbourne Visitor Information Centre, the one-stop-shop for visitors to Melbourne and Victoria. Get your map of the Square here.
Five tour bus operators begin their sightseeing day tours at Federation Square. Destinations include the Great Ocean Road, Penguin Parade and Yarra Valley, departing daily from Russell Street Extension and Flinders Street.
Get behind the scenes on a guided tour that takes you under, over and all around the famous sandstone paving.
Located on the edge of the Yarra River, Rentabike has all the bikes, maps and advice you need to explore Melbourne. Or, take a sightseeing or function cruise on the riverr – three of Melbourne's best boating operators call Federation Square home port.
How to get there
By tram: Any tram along Swanston Street and St Kilda Road, or the free City Circle Tram to the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets.
Free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle: Stop 1. The complete trip includes 13 stops and takes approximately an hour and a half. The bus runs every 30 minutes between 9.30am and 4.30pm daily (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day) and includes an on-board commentary.
By train: Flinders Street Station is opposite the Federation Square.
