Yarraville

There is a distinct village vibe in the immaculately preserved precinct of Yarraville, which feels like a world away from the CBD, just 10 kilometres away. The beautifully refurbished Edwardian and Victorian shopfronts at the village nexus of Anderson and Ballarat streets features all the inner-city conveniences with a decidedly relaxed pace. Take your pick of gastronomic neighbourhood cafes, restaurants and wine bars that will make you envy the locals. Stroll through boutiques, gift shops and bookstores, and keep your eye out for artisan wares, jewellery and gourmet food and wine. In summer a pop-up park transforms the bustling Ballarat Street shopping strip into green space. The beautifully restored Art Deco Sun Theatre has become a modern-day icon of Melbourne's film community. Catch cult films, classics and recent releases in the 1930s theatre. The Yarraville Markets are held monthly and highlights Melbourne artists and designers whose products are all handmade and local. Yarraville is approximately 11 kilometres from the CBD, or around 15 minutes by car along the West Gate Freeway. By train, catch the Werribee line from Flinders Street or Southern Cross stations. Journey time is approximately 20 minutes.