Palais Theatre image

Palais Theatre

Tourist attraction Live music venue Performing arts theater

One of the Most Reviewed Live music venues in Melbourne


Address

Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia

Website

www.palaistheatre.com.au

Contact

+61 3 8537 7677

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (3.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: venue (35) Great (25) great (21) theatre (21) seats (18) show (16) concert (15) building (12) Palais (12) parking (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Sonny G. 2 years ago on Google
    This is an iconic building. The light effects of its front exterior at night are appealing and vibrant. The interior is designed with classic architecture, preserved in good shape. I like the feel of the sound when the show is going, and the smell inside. The only thing I noticed was the temperature inside can get warmer especially in summer and autumn and, most especially, when it is fully packed. I would go back and watch another shows in the near future.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sam K. 2 months ago on Google • 770 reviews New
    Have been coming here for concerts for years and years back to Duran Duran in the 1980's!!! Such a great venue and of all the venues the closest to home so that's great. Really nice older style decor etc reflecting its history. Particularly great after renovations couple of years ago. Bathroom situation could be improved but so can they at all the venues!! Great sound but don't stand up first couple of rows on balcony as if you get excited you might topple over edge (built before OH&S). If you haven't been go you will enjoy it. 4.6.22 Chocolate Starfish, OUTSTANDING, hi energy concert covering Meatloaf, INXS, Queen and their own classics. So so good. 20.10 looking forward to Tom Bailey (Thompson Twins) concert Thursday 27th and guess what a venue change to Northcote. Northcote!! So had to put in for refund. Poor Tom Bailey wonder how many others won't be able to get to Northcote. 17.5.23 here to see Richard Clapton's 50th anniversary concert, 50!! So great hearing all the classics! 15.6. So back again, this time to see The Church! However only Steve Kilbey left fom original band. How I miss Marty Wilson-Piper! OK The Church's performance of Tantalised was one of the greatest live things I've ever seen. Blew my mind! 20.6 Billy Ocean, lots of hits and crowd loved it but so so annoying every second person filming so can't see past all the arms and phones in the air. Preferred The Church, different crowd too. 6.12 DEVO - contender for 2nd best concert of year! 13.2.24 Simple Minds. Excellent! Over so quick. I swear Jim Kerr looking at me, maybe because I was only one down front wearing their t-shirt.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cameron C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great theatre in a beautiful location. Easily accessible by tram and public transport. We were from out of town and flew in for the Xavier Rudd concert July 2022. The seating was comfortable and there was a clear view to the stage. Lighting and acoustics were amazing.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S C. 1 year ago on Google
    If you’re looking for street parking, come around 5pm as you get 1 hour and it’s free parking after 6pm. Came here to see Uncle Roger. Even at the nosebleed seats, it’s a good view. Gorgeous theatre full of history. Plenty of cubicles in the toilet, there’s a bar on both floors which is very convenient.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fran H. 1 month ago on Google • 432 reviews New
    Ah-mazing! Saw Simple Minds here! The venue and the performance didn’t disappoint. Seats were comfy and view was comfy, even tho we were in the nose bleeds. Always a queue for the ladies, so this is a reminder that there are more loos on the 1st level. Take in the surrounds! Chandelier. Staircases. Walls. The comp water on departure was a nice touch xx
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leigh T. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing experience seeing live music with a band and Orchestra. Fantastic venue with helpful staff. Accommodating with Companion Cards and Disability Support
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Paul T. 1 month ago on Google • 60 reviews New
    One of Melbourne's best surviving period Theatres, extensively renovated, in period, good facilities. Sound can be indistinct on the very large balcony. Closer stalls seats will improve your concert experience. Good stage views from most seats. Being in St Kilda, ambience, eating, drinking options abound.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Christine B. 1 year ago on Google
    First time I had been inside the Palais theatre for a concert recently. Well kept building, and well preserved. Comfortable seats. Good location. Parking available around the place which isn't free. Well worth seeing.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Viki P. 2 years ago on Google
    The Palais is a beautiful theatre! Seen a few concerts and shows here. Wherever you sit, you still have a great view of the stage.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Margot S. 4 years ago on Google
    Visited this interesting period venue 4 the Victoria Opera 2020 season launch 4 the first time. Sound & screen visuals were effective. The decor is dark & intricate. It looks well maintained. There's a magnificent chandelier & lush carpeting. Parking outside is free 2 those who have disabled permits. Not sure if there's a lift. There are many steps leading upstairs 2 the drinks counter.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 kareem k. 4 months ago on Google • 156 reviews
    It is very lively place, almost everyone on Melbourne knows the location. It seats almost 2,700 people, seats are well distributed, nice and clean. There is parking just beside it, but if the show is full, you will have to park somewhere far.

  • 5/5 Diary of L. 9 months ago on Google • 149 reviews
    Gorgeous old school theater. I watched IDOMENEO by the Victorian Opera and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The theater is a must visit for its great location, amazing ambience and superb acoustics. Plenty of parking available nearby. They also do snacks and alcohol on site. Seating is outdated and can be uncomfortable for longer shows.

  • 5/5 Michelle M. 9 months ago on Google • 132 reviews
    Went here for the Carl Baron comedy show. It was amazing I was really happy with the show. Unfortunate that we got stuck right up the back in the nosebleeds but someone has to fill the seat, haha. Still could see the stage and enjoy the atmosphere. Staff were great and service at the bars was very quick and cheerful unlike other venues we’ve visited recently. The actual theatre is a beautiful place and I love the place. Can’t wait for my next show.

  • 5/5 harsha l. 8 months ago on Google • 118 reviews
    Had a phenomenal experience at Palais Theatre! The historic venue itself is a masterpiece, exuding charm and elegance. Attending a show there was truly magical, with its stunning architecture and excellent acoustics creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The staff were courteous and helpful, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable event. Whether it's a concert, theater performance, or any other event, Palais Theatre is the perfect place for a memorable night out. Without a doubt, a 5-star gem in St Kilda! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • 5/5 Renae P. 3 months ago on Google • 96 reviews New
    Amazing seated venue in the heart of St Kilda. Grand old theatre with huge ceilings, balcony and multiple bars for a quick drink before the show.

  • 5/5 foodbringshappiness 4 months ago on Google • 86 reviews
    ❤️ this theatre. It is beautiful, well maintained and clean. We were here for Yiruma concert, sat at lounge which has a good view of the stage.

  • 4/5 Bera Doing S. 2 months ago on Google • 84 reviews New
    Great place for a concert. You can see the stage from every seat and enjoy the show. A classic old building, full of character and charm. The only gripe is that the council charges like a wounded bull for parking, even after hours, not the venue's fault.

  • 1/5 Erfan R. 2 months ago on Google • 83 reviews New
    I have been here several times and last night while waiting for the concert to start, I saw a part of the ceiling decoration was separated. I would say people sitting there might feel unsafe. It needs a repair. Please see the image.

  • 5/5 Jenni “Nurse” R. 5 months ago on Google • 82 reviews
    Have seen numerous live shows at the Palais, a grand old theatre. One of my favourite venues in Melbourne. Access and parking are fabulous. Facilities are great.

  • 5/5 Shayan S. 4 months ago on Google • 76 reviews
    Came for the Tedesthetics standup comedy show. Fantastic venue, however the traffic to get here was terrible on a Friday night. There is a bar upstairs which had a much smaller queue and serve drinks and food much quicker than the bar downstairs which was way more packed.

  • 5/5 Majd R. 4 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    Attended the Bassem Yousef comedy show at the Palais Theatre. First time for me in this venue, I was impressed with the seating capacity, with approximately 2900 seats - apparently it is the largest seated theatre in Australia. Parking is a bit of a challenge so plan ahead and be prepared to walk 10-15 minutes to the venue. Show was advertised for 7pm but started at 7.30pm Visibility and acoustics were great, however the seats are rather on the hard side, and the facilities could do with an update.

  • 5/5 Aliki K. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful ornate venue that adds to the experience. Sound projection was perfect no matter where you sit.

  • 2/5 Zoe O. 2 years ago on Google
    Looks BEAUTIFUL!! But the SMELL was like old urine as soon as you walk in!! If it didn't have the smell and if they sold merchandise for the Metallica event I went to I would have given 5 stars..

  • 5/5 Aleksandra K. 1 year ago on Google
    What an amazing venue with even greater staff! It’s always the perfect temperature and the 1920s seats are era appropriate and comfortable. I have such fond memories of the wonderful artists I’ve gotten to see here, thank you for enriching my cultural experience! A+ 10/10 would recommend

  • 4/5 Sumiya M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great venue, old understandably. Seating is well placed and organised. Seats are well aligned around the theatre to see the stage. I would imagine doesn't matter where you are seated you can view the performance comfortably. Seating is alittle uncomfortable for longer periods. Theatre has plenty of character, charm & beauty

  • 5/5 Kat L. 1 year ago on Google
    Striking old building in prime location. The Fleetwood Mac orchestra here sounded ncredible! Was pretty warm in there though so perhaps bring a hand held fan if it's a hot night. So much fun and right near Luna Park 🎢

  • 5/5 Eddy E. 4 years ago on Google
    Great music

  • 2/5 Kallin 4 years ago on Google
    Very old venue and if you are sitting up the back you need excellent sight and hearing

  • 5/5 Andrew M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great music in a great place

  • 4/5 Kristina M. 4 years ago on Google
    Although the seats aren't the most comfortable, it's a beautiful renovation and the theatre has a great acoustic.

  • 4/5 Breanna s. 2 years ago on Google
    Great theatre. Back row seats are still good view. Chairs are old and pretty narrow without a lot of room, so not great for larger people or really long legs. Still a Beautiful venue.

  • 4/5 Maria Diana S. 1 year ago on Google
    Visited the Palais Theatre to see Jimmy Rees live. Venue is right next to Luna Park and has its own car park on the side ($16 flat rate at night on a Saturday) The Palais is very early 1900's architecture and design in relatively good condition. The seats are beautiful but can be a bit stiff to sit in after about an hour. Toilets available.

  • 5/5 Clinton L. 1 year ago on Google
    Just saw the Legend George Benson... Left Satisfied.. Great show glad we went. Shout out to the usher's tough night trying to get people to sit down.. 😂 😂.

  • 5/5 Alexander R. 1 year ago on Google
    The Palais Theatre is a lovely venue. Really enjoyed watching Bohemian Rhapsody (Queen tribute band) here. Seats are large and comfortable. The 100 year old building (and roof!!) is incredible

  • 5/5 Bec T. 1 year ago on Google
    Great vibe & Accessible. Not great for wheelchairs but manageable for moderately mobility impaired. The steps are deep and well placed, Not over burdening. Great acoustics!!!!

  • 3/5 Gary C. 1 year ago on Google
    Air Supply concert Dec 1. I am severely disabled by MND and even though we arrived over an hour early we were caught out initially by all the works going on around there, so ended up parking about a 600m walk away with my wife having to push me in my wheelchair. Our fault in part I guess because there was a warning about works in the area but living an hour away and having not been in that area for years it had no meaning for us. My rating of 3 has nothing to do with that but all to do with our position for wheelchair seats. We were right at the back in the stalls in a row of normal chairs. Two were pulled out to enable my wheelchair to fit and they were numbered so if whoever was meant to be in the extra seat removed had arrived there would have been a problem! Again, I'll give them the benefit of the doubt. The problem was that towards the end when fans were getting into it almost everybody stood up (see pic 2) so being unable to stand I could see nothing. We were there many years ago for another concert (Moody Blues from memory) and had seats right down the front - absolutely no problem then! To stick disabled people right up the back where their view could be blocked was terrible! 🤬🤬🤬 The other thing was it said food and drinks available. "Food" was either a bag of potato crisps or an ice cream! 😭

  • 5/5 Abhishek B. 4 years ago on Google
    Bit small but good

  • 5/5 Stephen D. 11 months ago on Google
    It's a grand old place retaining all it's charm. I sat half way up in the dress circle and had no problem hearing or seeing Mr McLean and friends deliver a big serve of nostalgia. Entry to the venue was easy. Staff were professional, friendly, helpful. Food (limited) and drink (plentiful) were available at Saturday night bar prices. ($) The less agile found the stairs challenging. However there are lifts to the loftier sections. Parking is an issue unless you go early. Luna park's car park in Shakespeare Grove could be the best bet with ticket machines or PayStay via your mobile. Beware also, post show Saturday night traffic in StKilda is stressful.

  • 4/5 Daniel H. 1 year ago on Google
    Great venue, good sound for music and performance doesn’t over change to much for their bar. The venue itself is beautiful, you must visit it at least once.

  • 4/5 Ziyang L. 5 months ago on Google
    Nice art deco theatre. Can clearly see the stage even on the last row. Paid on street parking around.

  • 5/5 Adam C. 1 month ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    Beautiful old building that's really well done for seating even if someone tall is in front of you. NO AIR-CONDITIONING! Take some kind of portable USB fan or hand fan with you in the hotter months and I assure you I'm not exaggerating.

  • 5/5 Barry W. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous building seen so many acts here, this place is a piece of Melbourne.

  • 5/5 Mike P. 4 years ago on Google
    Went to see The Pixies at the Palais. Great venue. Sold out crowd. Top sound. Great ambience. Has been a great rebirth of this venue. Woryh spending a few minutes walking around and looking up at the ceiling just to admire this building and its architecture while you are there.

  • 5/5 kat m. 4 years ago on Google
    A great venue to watch The Pixies play live!

  • 4/5 Rob J. 4 years ago on Google
    Would have given five stars of the usher was a bit nicer.

  • 3/5 Steve D. 4 years ago on Google
    Great venue for an awesome Pat Metheny Concert. I thought the sound was excellent but other punters disagreed. There was a ban on photos, recording & texting. Excellent policy! Great to have no mobiles texting next to me like at some venues. The one thing that got to me was the smoke machine. Too much smoke and it just kept coming! Why? Certainly didn't need it at a concert like this. I must add, the guys doing the sound on the desk were real gentlemen. The ushers were very helpful.

  • 4/5 Christine M. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely theatre, opera was good too!!

  • 5/5 David Jeremiah W. 4 years ago on Google
    Our first stop on the Jill Scott 2013 Summer Australian Tour...

  • 4/5 Bart R. 3 years ago on Google
    Great building?

  • 4/5 jorlejoca 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous building steeped in history. One of the best sounding venues to see a band. Its only downfall is parking. With done planning ahead or a lovely walk down the beach there is the option of public transport readily available or some nearby parking lots within a 10 minute walk. This sounds long, but a walk along the beach bitty before and after the event is a part of the experience. I park at the Marina myself and enjoy the stroll.

  • 4/5 Phoebe I. 3 years ago on Google
    Came to see RuPaul’s drag race and the design of this building was amazing

  • 5/5 Bryan O. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing theatre, you can smell the atmosphere.

  • 5/5 zubair a. 3 years ago on Google
    Great customer service with best price.

  • 5/5 Natalie G. 4 years ago on Google
    A quirky, old fashioned theatre with lots of character! Bar prices are reasonable, parking is easy and the show we saw ( The empire strips back) was incredible!

  • 5/5 BlackBeard 4 years ago on Google
    Great old venue. Came here to see Aziz Ansari. It's incredible how places like this still exist. Hopefully Melbourne maintain the venue and it continues to share its beauty with generations to come

  • 5/5 Emma T. 4 years ago on Google
    Really attentive staff in VIP. I had a viagogo ticket and the help was a bit all over the place. One guy was amazing and pointed me to a touter with a genuine ticket and I gained entry to the event. Another team member gave me a blank stare and told me I’d been scammed and there was absolutely no way she could help. Until the young guy spoke to me- I was really fuming. So two staff amazing and did more than necessary whereas one was totally unhelpful and told me to move aside.

  • 4/5 Mandy S. 4 years ago on Google
    Great old venue. Shame about the very rude male staff member inside... Telling people off for taking photos when NO announcement was made otherwise and then telling people to hurry up and leave when the concert was over....even yelling at people to move from the front concrete area which is public space!

  • 4/5 Mr C. 4 years ago on Google
    The theatre has a lot of character and is hugely photogenic. It is convenient for cafes and has a tram stop right outside. Most seats have an unspoilt view of the stage. The seats aren't too comfortable over long periods of time and if you're of the fuller figure you'll be squashed. Leg room is minimal and if anyone needs to get past, you're gonna have to stand up to let them through.

  • 4/5 HIHPI Sir Brian Webb o. 4 years ago on Google
    Saw Ian Moss (& stuff). First time in the Palais Theatre and it's amazing. Authenticity. Unique smell, historic seats, nice sound. Always wanted to go in there. Really soaked it up, had a great night and genuinely got something out of it. Limited opportunity taken.

  • 5/5 Jay M. 4 years ago on Google
    So thankful to have been given the chance to visit this beautiful theatre. Beautiful old school Melbourne Theatre, perfectly renovated to keep it feeling new but losing none of its old school charm. I had a great time and I cannot wait for my next visit.

  • 5/5 Simon L. 4 years ago on Google
    Fantastic venue. Vintage architecture, quite picturesque. Great vibe. Seating could use an upgrade, but also adds to the vintage look and vibe, however uncomfortable it may be to sit through a show. I went here to see Dita Von Teese and it is a very fitting venue for such a show. I've also seen John Oliver here. Honestly, with such quality shows playing, you don't notice the seating until towards the end. But it is a point to be raised. Still a top notch theatre, highly recommend.

  • 5/5 Alan T. 4 years ago on Google
    Went and saw stand up comedian Daniel Tosh... Great time was had by all

  • 4/5 Em T. 4 years ago on Google
    The Palais Theatre is a lovely venue, with perfect views of the stage from all areas of the stalls. I am unsure about the view from the dress circle. The seats originate from 1925, and while delightfully authentic, you feel every year of the nearly century-old springs as they press rather intimately against your derriere.

  • 5/5 Jez C. 4 years ago on Google
    How could you not love this place... ❤️

  • 5/5 Lis Maria C. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and awesome location. Drinks and snack are expensive, but we had dinner at one of the many venues near by and had a great opera experience.

  • 5/5 Gabrielle K. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful Melbourne treasure.

  • 5/5 Steven S. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent wonderful opera and great venue the renovation is spectacular

  • 5/5 Angus R. 4 years ago on Google
    Saw TMG it was great, the front row was kinda whack though...

  • 4/5 James R. 4 years ago on Google
    So glad they saved this beautiful theatre, such an Icon of St Kilda

  • 5/5 Ceinwen H. 4 years ago on Google
    Such a cool venue ?

  • 5/5 Alex M. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful old theatre

  • 5/5 Chrissy A. 4 years ago on Google
    The acoustics were another level

  • 5/5 Simon H. 4 years ago on Google
    An amazing place

  • 5/5 Reuel A. 4 years ago on Google
    Great venue for concerts

  • 4/5 Joe T. 4 years ago on Google
    What an amazing place.

  • 5/5 Robert W. 4 years ago on Google
    Great venue for live artists. One of the best in Melbourne.

  • 5/5 Richard M. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely old place in great location

  • 5/5 Adam M. 4 years ago on Google
    Never change. You're beautiful.

  • 5/5 Matt G. 4 years ago on Google
    Last saw The Pixies in 1989. They've still got it. Caribouuuuu

  • 4/5 Jon M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great spot, lovely old school building, but a bit of an odd venue for a music show (e.g. Pixies) as it is entirely seated.

  • 4/5 Stuart L. 4 years ago on Google
    Great venue to see live music


Call +61 3 8537 7677 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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