Mapping out Melbourne: Our insider’s guide
Melbourne routinely ranks among the world’s most liveable cities. People travel from across the globe to visit and it’s home to a vibrant street art, acres of green spaces, flavor-packed restaurants and an unforgettable skyline. Our favorite part? Its running scene. And we’ve got a local guide to point you in the right direction.
Meet your new guide
Born in Singapore and raised in Adelaide, Bryan first moved to Melbourne to study. When a friend recommended running as a way to take his mind off stressful classes he welcomed the idea with open arms.
So much so that he agreed to do a marathon. Luckily, he quickly realized that running meant more to him than just a distraction from studying. And completing his first marathon proved it. Bryan had fallen in love.
But he found running alone, well, a little lonely. Exploring the city was an experience he wanted to share. So after joining a few running groups and seeing the benefit of having some support, he started the Glasshouse Run Club.
Melbourne is really diverse and it’s open to everybody – people of any age, background, race, religion – it doesn’t matter.
“And my run crew is exactly the same. I see running as a safe space for everyone and I want to help build a community. It’s all about being healthy and wholesome.”
Bryan’s routes – from coffee runs to scenic tours
Alright, time to get moving. We asked Bryan for his best suggestions and he didn’t disappoint. We have a 5km, 10km and 15km route for you to enjoy.
“Honestly, I could’ve easily given you 10 routes*. The choices are endless. Everywhere in Melbourne is runnable,” says Bryan.
"I think these routes sum up the city well – with the parks, the sea, the bay and the river. Everywhere you go, you can see something special."
*Bryan did actually end up giving us 10 routes. So make sure to check out our Strava account where we’ve uploaded all of them for you.
5 km: Carlton Coffee Run
“This is my coffee run. It starts and ends at the Twilight Terror cafe in the hipster neighborhood of Collingwood. From here, it’s a short run to Carlton Park and you’ll find a few landmarks you won’t want to miss along the way.
“The first one you’ll spot is probably the Royal Exhibition Building, which is a world heritage-listed building built in the 1800s. Tucked behind that is the Melbourne Museum which is all about modern design – so it’s a pretty nice contrast to the surrounding nature.
“I like this route because the parks are lush and filled with life. There are a stunning fountains and tall trees that line it – making perfect for a break in the shade if you need it.”
10 km: Yarra River & Loy’s Paddock
“My second route begins at the Tan track starting line which gets called the Pillars of Wisdom. It features electronic clocks with the fastest male and female running times recorded and are a way for local runners and walkers to record their own times around the track.
“Once we cross the Yarra River we’re heading to Melbourne Park where the Australian Open Grand Slam is held, and home of the Melbourne Cricket Ground stadium. Over the William Barak Bridge, we wind up at Flinders Lane where you can find some amazing restaurants. For a quick refuel on my morning run, I like to stop by the brilliant Bowery to Williamsburg cafe.
“The nearby Flinders Street Train Station is iconic and always catches people’s eye, but our goal is the Shrine of Remembrance. It’s a classically styled war memorial featuring the Eternal Flame in its massive forecourt. And with that, our 10 km is done.”
“For our longest and most scenic route, we find ourselves back on the banks of the Yarra River running towards Albert Park Lake. Here you’ll find one of Australia's busiest parkruns. These events are set up by volunteers to bring runners together for super inclusive events.
“Our route continues through the quaint neighborhood of Middle Park and on to Princes Pier, a 580m long pier which has been half-stripped to expose its wooden stumps sticking out from the water – the perfect spot to snap a pic for the Gram.
“There are great coffee and brunch stops along the beach stretch of this route. So refuel if you want then get ready to head to the Sandridge Rail Trail. This was formerly Australia's first steam rail line but it’s now a beautiful park and path that wraps up the final 5 km of our run.”
15 km: Port to Park Loop
Bryan’s rules for the run
"If you’re taking it easy on the tracks, keep to the outer lanes so others can keep their pace."
Everyone’s pretty laid back but if you see another run crew make sure to say hi to keep the energy up.
"Be considerate. There’s lots of space for runners in the city, keep an eye out for others so everyone can enjoy it."
Bryan’s favorite spots
Don’t let the name fool you, this place is an absolute delight. There’s quite literally something for everyone. From vegan and gluten free options, to healthy snacks and sweet treats.
Discover dishes that bring the best of Japanese cuisine and Australian sensibility together. Tuck in at the sushi counter or try a contemporary chef’s dining experience.
Bowery to Williamsburgcafe – 10 km
This classic NYC diner style joint offers all the best of American food and combines it with the refined tastes of the Melbourne locals.
Walk, run or take in the magnificent skyline. Albert Park is an important part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape and an excellent place to connect with nature.
Graffiti lanes – the Central Business District
Drawing in people searching for creative inspiration, the many graffiti lanes of Melbourne are not to be missed. From Hosier and ACDC Lanes to Duckboard place – there’s something for everyone.
One of Bryan’s regular spots, The Guilty Moose Cafe, uses seasonal ingredients to create a menu that’s fresh all-year round.
What Bryan’s wearing
Running route 1: Carlton Coffee Run