Looking for a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood packed with creative energy, street art, and international eats? Head to Brunswick! Just north of Melbourne’s city center, Brunswick offers a dynamic mix of indie music venues, multicultural restaurants, quirky shops, and relaxed parks. Whether you're into vintage shopping, live gigs, or a good flat white, Brunswick buzzes with an authentic, artsy vibe.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Brunswick is from October through April. Spring and summer bring warm weather, outdoor festivals, bustling café culture, and an overall lively atmosphere. Autumn (March–May) is also great for comfortable temperatures and vibrant local events.
My tips for getting There
- By Train: Take the Upfield Line from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station directly to Brunswick, Jewell, or Anstey stations.
- By Tram: Tram routes 19 (along Sydney Road) and 1 & 6 (along Lygon Street) offer frequent service from Melbourne CBD into Brunswick.
- By Car: Brunswick is about a 15–20 minute drive north of Melbourne CBD via Royal Parade or Lygon Street, though parking can be limited.
Where I like to stay
- Parkville Motel – Comfortable, budget-friendly option near Royal Park and just a short tram ride from Brunswick’s action.
- Melbourne's Princes Park Hotel – Modern accommodation close to Sydney Road, ideal for business and leisure travelers.
- Local Airbnbs and Boutique Rentals – Brunswick is full of stylish lofts, heritage homes, and cozy apartments available for short stays.
Best Things to Do
1. Soak in Heritage at Brunswick City Baths
"Swim laps or steam it out in this beautifully restored Edwardian-era fitness hub"
Part of the Active Moreland aquatic and leisure center in Brunswick is housed in a building that was built in 1914. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The fitness complex has a 50 meter heated outdoor swimming pool and a 20 meter heated pool indoors. The cardio room, with stationary bicycles, treadmills and rowing machines, overlooks the indoor pool. There is also a full gym and an outdoor training zone. For children, there is a splash pool and play area. Fitness classes, personal training sessions and child minding services are on offer.
Brunswick Baths, 14 Dawson Street, Brunswick, Phone: 93-81-18-40
2. Catch Live Vibes and Indie Energy at Howler
"An industrial-chic venue where music, art, and late-night drinks collide"
Opposite the Brunswick City Baths, in a car park, near the train tracks is an urban forest retreat. Howler bar and restaurant is situated in a converted wool shed. The huge open plan, double-story space is decorated primarily with greenery which contrasts superbly with the exposed brick. The beer list is eclectic and the menu is simple. Small plates and burgers are standard fare. There is a dedicated performance area and an excellent sound system, which are used for theater productions, stand up comedy, live music evenings and DJ sessions. Weekly events include Trivia Tuesdays, Jazz Sundays and Nerd Nites.
7 - 11 Dawson Street Brunswick, Phone: 03-90-77-55-72
3. Spin Through Sound at Round & Round Records
If you think like me:
"Vinyl lovers unite in this crate-digger’s paradise filled with sonic gems"
This small shop on Sydney Road, sells new and second-hand vinyl records. The owner, Jeff Wybrow, sells 7 inch, 10 inch and long-playing records in all music genres but specializes in krautrock, Italian prog, psych and jazz. He stocks classic titles and the more obscure ones. A hand-written note, reviewing the music and sharing facts about the artist, is attached to each record. The custom-made wooden racks and colorful artwork create the appropriate ambiance. The Round & Round Records shop is open 7 days a week.
556 Sydney Rd (near cnr of Blyth St), Brunswick VIC 3056, Phone:+61-3-93-80-50-95
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Craft Sweet Masterpieces at Savour Chocolate & Patisserie School
"Learn the art of dessert with world-class pastry chefs and chocolate innovators"
Savour is a school and retail outlet. They hold regular confectionery classes, using the highest quality ingredients, the best equipment and the latest techniques. They cater for all skill levels. Introductory classes help participants to understand the making of chocolate from the 'bean to the bar' and how to start their own business. More advanced classes include how to make pralines, gateaux, petit fours and macaroons. International guest chocolatiers and pastry chefs join Savour's own staff to provide the training. Online classes are also available. The online shop sells ingredients, equipment and gift packages for special occasions or everyday consumption.
22 Wilson Avenue, Brunswick Vic 3056, Phone: +61-3-93-80-97-77
5. Reconnect with Nature at CERES Community Environment Park
My top 5:
"Urban sustainability, organic markets, and eco-education all wrapped in community spirit"
CERES is an acronym for the Center for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies. It is a non-profit, community business operating on a 4.5 ha site, close to the Merri Creek, which was once a desolate wasteland after being used as a quarry and landfill dump. A number of urban agriculture projects and social enterprises operate from the premises. There is a community kitchen, a bushfood nursery, a subscription-based fair food exchange and an organic online supermarket. The center runs education and training workshops and has an outreach to schools in Melbourne and the surrounding rural areas.
C/o Roberts and Stewart Streets, Brunswick East, Phone: +61-3-93-89-01-00
6. Dine Global with Local Soul at Tom Phat
I recommend:
"Bold Southeast Asian flavors, Brunswick buzz, and a no-fuss street food flair"
This restaurant that serves authentic south east Asian cuisine was established in 2004, before Sydney Road was trendy. Brunswick has changed substantially since then but Tom Phat has remained popular. Their ethos is to support local business by working with suppliers from the area. The bar and eatery has a modern interior with a vibrant atmosphere. The concrete walls, huge windows looking onto Sydney Road, and the oriental accents all add to the ambiance. They serve breakfast which is unusual for Asian restaurants. Their signature cocktails also come in a non-alcoholic 'mocktail' form. Vegetarians will find a range of options on the menu.
182-184 Sydney Road, Brunswick, Victoria 3056, Phone: 03-93-81-23-74
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Stroll along Sydney Road – Shop vintage boutiques, browse global grocery stores, and soak up Brunswick’s multicultural character.
- Explore Brunswick Street Art – Discover colorful murals and hidden laneway art throughout the neighborhood.
- Catch a live show at Howler or The Retreat Hotel – Legendary venues offering everything from indie rock to experimental beats.
- Relax in Princes Park – Big, green space perfect for picnicking, jogging, or just unwinding under shady trees.
Where to Eat
- Tom Phat – Longstanding brunch hotspot offering Asian-fusion dishes like coconut pancakes and spicy curries.
- A1 Bakery – Iconic Lebanese bakery famous for its manakish (flatbreads), savory pastries, and fresh juices.
- Small Axe Kitchen – Modern Italian-Australian café known for their inventive brunch and pasta offerings in a cozy setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Brunswick Music Festival (March) – One of Australia’s longest-running music festivals celebrating indie, roots, and multicultural acts in venues across the neighborhood.
- Sydney Road Street Party (March) – Lively community street festival with live music, global food stalls, and cultural performances.
- Brunswick Artists’ Market (monthly) – Meet local makers selling art, jewelry, ceramics, and more at Brunswick Town Hall.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Brunswick, Victoria:
- Melbourne CBD (15–20 min) – Explore Federation Square, NGV, laneway cafés, and iconic shopping districts like Bourke Street Mall.
- Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne (30 min) – Stroll through vast gardens showcasing thousands of plant species and tranquil lakes.
- Brunswick East and Northcote (10–15 min) – Trendy neighboring areas brimming with music venues, art galleries, and cutting-edge restaurants.
- Flemington and Footscray (30 min) – Visit multicultural Footscray markets or attend races at Flemington Racecourse.
- Yarra Bend Park (20–25 min) – Walk riverside trails, spot flying foxes, and picnic by the Yarra River in one of Melbourne’s largest parks.
- Heide Museum of Modern Art (45 min) – Discover modern Australian art housed in a beautiful parkland setting in Bulleen.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Q: Where is Brunswick located?
- A: Brunswick is an inner city suburb of Melbourne, 4 kilometers from the central business district.
- Q: When was Brunswick established?
- A: The boundaries of Brunswick were drawn in 1830, with ten allotments mapped out either side of Sydney Road and sold for auction.
- Q: What was Brunswick known for in the 1850s?
- A: During the Gold Rush of the 1850s, Brunswick served as a refreshment stop for diggers.
- Q: What was Brunswick's role in the early 20th century?
- A: In the early 20th century, Brunswick became a textile manufacturing hub.
- Q: Who settled in Brunswick after World War II?
- A: After World War II, many Italian and Greek immigrants settled in Brunswick.
- Q: What is Brunswick like today?
- A: Today, Brunswick is an eclectic, bohemian mix of cultures, students from the nearby University of Melbourne, and artists.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (September-November) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for exploring street art and cafes.
Artel Apartments – A stylish and modern stay in the heart of Brunswick.
Walk along Sydney Road – Discover Brunswick’s vibrant café scene, vintage shops, and live music venues.
Summer (December-February) – Warm and lively, ideal for outdoor dining and local festivals.
Brunswick Tower Hotel – A budget-friendly stay with easy access to public transport.
Relax at CERES Community Environment Park – Enjoy nature, local markets, and sustainable living workshops.
Fall (March-May) – Cool and colorful, great for exploring markets and cultural spots.
Best Western Melbourne City – A well-located hotel close to Brunswick’s attractions.
Visit the Brunswick Music Festival – Experience live performances and street entertainment.
Winter (June-August) – Cool and cozy, perfect for enjoying Brunswick’s coffee culture and indoor entertainment.
The Larwill Studio – A boutique hotel with artistic charm.
Explore Howler – A unique venue offering live music, performances, and a cozy beer garden.
How did I do?
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