Best of the 96 tram

Escape the daily grind and reconnect with Melbourne. Let the 96 tram be your guide around the city as you curate your own fun-filled itinerary.

Hop on and head north to Carlton and Fitzroy, and immerse yourself in Melbourne's creative inner-neighbourhoods. Or travel south of the Yarra to relax into the beachy-bohemian vibe of St Kilda. Pick and mix from award-winning bars and new restaurants as you traverse the Free Tram Zone in the CBD. The 96 tram is your ticket to the best that Melbourne has to offer.

Stop 16 – Kay Street / Nicholson Street

Start at the weekend Rose St. Artist's Market. Rummage through stalls packed with homewares, accessories, jewellery and more, where you'll find artistic and design gems unique to Melbourne. Feeling a bit peckish? The Fitzroy Mills Market is right next door, home to some of the best in artisan food, drink and products, grown and crafted by local producers – on Saturdays.

Wander over to Brunswick Street, a popular strip that guarantees interesting shopping, eating and people watching. Take in the spectacular view of the city from the many rooftop bars in the area – we like Naked For Satan Rooftop, the Provincial Hotel and Upside Rooftop and Bar.

Alternatively, head west over to Lygon Street to sample the best of Melbourne's Italian precinct. Head to the Carlton Wine Room for a vino and sit-down snack, or try Agostino and Johnny's Green Room for pasta, spritzes and rooftop views.

Once you've wined and dined, hop back on the 96 tram to continue your journey south towards the city.

Stop 11 – Melbourne Museum / Nicholson Street

Stop outside the Royal Exhibition Building, one of Melbourne's best-known pieces of heritage architecture. At its flank, the Carlton Gardens are a popular spot among locals for walks, picnics, or some pond-side lounging on the grass.

Wine bars are aplenty in this part of town, with Gertrude Street one of Melbourne's most thriving and stylish foodie and nightlife destinations. Stop into Marion for a moment's pause over a glass of natural wine, then continue to Cutler and Co for drinks and small snacks.

Time for more? Pick from a range of bars and pubs along the street, including The Everleigh, Poodle and the Builder's Arms Hotel.

Stop 6 – Swanston Street / Bourke Street

Continue your journey into the city and make a stop at the bustling Bourke Street Mall. Poke around the historical arcades and colourful laneways that lead off Bourke Street, including gorgeous arch-roofed Royal Arcade. Shop up a storm at the many big-name department stores and small speciality shops dotting this area. Don't miss the sleek and stylish Emporium or St. Collins Lane, home to international fashion labels and flagship Melbourne stores.

Take a break in Chinatown on Little Bourke Street. Fill up with a feast of yum cha and dumplings.

Stop 127 – South Melbourne

Jump back on board the 96 and trundle down to South Melbourne Market. Grab a coffee – and perhaps an oozy cheese toastie – and peruse stalls selling books, homewares, clothing, souvenirs and all kinds of tasty treats.

Stop 136 – The Esplanade

Shift gears and travel to the St Kilda Esplanade, where you can jump off for a stroll along the foreshore and nearby Acland Street.You'll find an array of cafes, restaurants, bars, fashion boutiques and bakeries, serving up an abundance of cake and sweet treats.

Wrap things up at the Hotel Esplanade, affectionately known as 'The Espy'. Relax with a pint in the public bar, or cheers with delicious cocktails as you soak up the sea views.