self guided walking tour melbourne laneways

Melbourne Laneways Self-Guided Walking Tour

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Last Updated on November 16, 2019 by Amy

Ask any Melbournian* what to do in Melbourne, and the answer is pretty causal. “Oh just walk around!”, “Check out the laneways”, “Get a feel for the city”. But what exactly are the Melbourne Laneways and where do you go?

Armed with a laneways map from the Visitor’s Information Centre , David and I set off to explore the city on foot. Well, the map turned out to be rubbish. We’d go down a designated “laneway” to find no interesting art or businesses. There was no recommended route, so we had to make up our own. But still, we walked for several hours, admiring this unique part of Melbourne! And thanks to technology, I was able to record all of our favorite parts and share them with you!

This Laneways tour is a circle and can be started at any point. If you power walk, you can probably pass the whole thing by in an hour. Sometimes the attraction is the businesses operated in the laneway, particularly a look at Melbourne’s cafe culture. Sometimes, the attraction is the art on the streets itself. Or, the architecture. Given all the variety, it’s easily the top thing to do in Melbourne.

Table of Contents - Click to Jump

Our 5 Favorite Street Art Locations in the Melbourne Laneways

Fucking hippies.

Hidden in the Centre Way arcade.

Everything has Beauty

Classic melbourne, bonus: anz bank’s gaytm.

Political stance? Work of art? Marketing campaign? Who cares! I feel the love.

The Short List

No time for a full-on walking tour? Don’t worry, the best use of your time (maximum art, minimum walking) would be ACDC Lane. It is chock full of street art, including one of my favorites (the Classic Melbourne), and tons of music-themed street art.

A Word About Hosier Lane

Hosier Lane is probably the second most popular Melbourne Laneway around, but it’s definitely more of a rough-and-tumble place.  When we visited, there were two guys having an altercation on the street, a group of what I assume was homeless people, and the art is much more graffiti than street art.  You have been warned.

The Arcades

Melbourne also is full of interesting interior spaces. The arcades are beautiful and filled with interesting shops and art galleries.

According to TripAdvisor, there are about 3,500 restaurants in Melbourne. Between Degraves and Hardware, which are on this Melbourne Laneways tour, you’ll find Melbourne’s best cafe scene, with pedestrian-only traffic squeezed between cafe tables. Or, if you started near the Visitor’s Centre as we did, mid-day will find you in Chinatown, where international university students reign, and there’s every variety even remotely Asian that you can think of.

One of my favorite breakfasts was at White Mojo on Hardware Street. My breakfast was an egg and bacon roll with corn on an ink bun. It was HUGE and the eggs had (I think) sweet chili sauce in them. Very hipster.

I originally read about Flower Drum in my book What Chefs Eat . Not only is it reputed as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, but one of the best in Australia. We managed to snag a last-minute reservation on a Monday for lunch, and thoroughly enjoyed our meal. Peking duck and honey-marinated ribs were awesome.

The Melbourne Laneways Map

Where to stay in melbourne.

All of these hotels are directly on or inside the route we took.

Luxury ($150 USD +): Grand Hyatt Melbourne is your classic cookie-cutter hotel, though it’s five-star rated. For more modern options, the Adelphi Hotel is four and a half stars and located less than a block from Hosier Lane and Punthill Flinders Lane Apartments , the most expensive of the bunch, is right across from Centre Way on the corner of Degraves and Flinders Lane. Adorable cafes abound.

For more moderate accommodations, the Causeway Inn on the Mall is located in the Bourke Street Mall right on the walking path. 

Australia’s got plenty of backpackers running around with their Working Holiday Visas, so there’s no shortage of backpacking hostels, a very inexpensive way to stay in the city.  Check out Greenhouse Backpackers Melbourne for one near the walking path.

What Else We Did in Melbourne

Socializing.

We had a great meetup in Melbourne, even getting to meet a fellow Helia owner.

We caught up with our cruising friend Jessie, from S/V Red Thread.

A Walk in the Park

The Yarra River has it’s own riverwalk, with interesting city views. Across from downtown is a large green space, made up of the Alexandra Gardens, Queen Victoria Gardens, and the Kings Domain. It’s a lovely place to walk on a comfortable day.

Queen Victoria Market

I had a blast picking up lunch and dinner one day at the QVM. Some parts of the market are tourist trinkets and clothes, but the buildings that house most of the food are awesome to walk through. It reminded me of European food markets.

Now go off and have your own crazy laneways adventure!

Did I miss your favorite laneways spot? Tell me about it!

Looking for more things to do in Melbourne?  Here’s a 7-Day Melbourne Itinerary .

We stayed near Chinatown, but there are plenty of interesting places  to stay in Melbourne.

Want more Aussie street art?  Here’s how to find Sydney’s Best Street Art .

*Slightly disappointed it’s not Melbourites.

40 Comments

Really beautiful pictures! I am an art lover and I like to explore Melbourne streets full of graffiti. I am a foodie as well and China town is my favourite place for food and sometimes a quite place with live music. A walking tour is best if anyone wants to see the real charm of Melbourne. your list is really nice.

Thank you! We really enjoyed the tour and Melbourne is so great!

My parents and I are planning a trip there in March of 2020 for my dad’s retirement. We are from Tennessee US and I have never been to Australia. I am so excited and this post was so helpful Thank you!

Aw thank you! Melbourne is a fun place. Enjoy your trip!

Thanks Amy. Always interesting to see your home through the eyes of someone else. Melbourne is home but we too love Tassie and get down there every couple of years. Hobart highlights “Mona” and Daci and Daci bakery

Thanks David! Glad you enjoyed it. We really enjoyed Melbourne.

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I LOVE street art so this is totally up my alley. Melbourne has been on my list for awhile and now I know the first thing I will do when I’m there, thanks to you! My favorite piece I think is One Tree but it’s so hard to choose! Love the ATM’s too.

Thanks! I’m glad you liked it!

One fine day I will make it to Australia – and I will make sure to visit Melbourne; for the streetart alone – this is just amazing. I like the hippie mural best – for its unusual appearance. Just great – thanx for sharing this!

Thank you! Melbourne is a great stop.

I love a city with good street art, and Melbs sure seems to be one! I especially liked ‘The Jungle’ and ‘Fucking Hippies’ 🙂 I’ve yet to visit Melbourne but between the street art, the famous coffee and café culture and avocado on toast, I’m already sure I love it 🙂

It’s an easy city to love.

Walking through the lanes is the best way to experience any city. It gives us the overview of the culture, the life and the art of that place. Seems like Melbourne is one such place where there is a lot to explore. Thanks for sharing.

Some cities are definitely more walkable than others. Unfortunately, our hometown of Houston is not so walkable. 🙁

A friend of mine has recently moved to Melbourne so saving this for when I go to visit – great to know where some of Melbourne’s famous street art is, as I’m always on the lookout for that whenever I take a city break.

Enjoy! It’s a great place to visit.

I love tours like this!! And this place is so vibrant – good lord. I’ve always thought Melbourne sounded pretty cool, but this is serious inspo!

Vibrant is a great word for it. 🙂

I’m very taken with the jungle art; it’s so lush and leafy. Man with tree and the crayons also rewarded a lot of examination. I’m glad you had a good exploration time despite the pants nature of the information you were given to go wandering with.

Thanks Bernie.

This is a great idea for a walking tour. I especially appreciate the urban art section, I love street art!

Thanks! Definitely a highlight of Melbourne.

Okay so I have never heard of the term “Laneways” before but I love it! The Melbourne Laneways tour you created or followed or hit by accident looked amazing. I LOVE all the street are you found. I actually stopped for like 5 minutes disecting the one you showed up there with the kid drawing with his/her crayons etc. That was truly amazing. The atm was totally cool too. I just love “discovering” street art.

Thanks! I really enjoyed the walking around and discovering the laneways.

I have literally never heard the term “laneway” before haha. But what a unique way to discover a city! Thanks for sharing!

You are welcome. Laneways are a big thing in Australia.

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That’s incredible, I had no idea there was so much street art! The GayTM is brilliant!

It is brilliant! 🙂

Wow, I’ve heard Melbourne has some good street art but I’m floored! I’m a street art junkie and would love this tour, especially for the street art.

You would love Melbourne then! It’s probably the best street art city I’ve ever been to.

Thanks for sharing, this tells a totally new side of Melbourne!

Thank you for reading!

Oo I love the gay ATM. It is so original! Very interesting post and thanks for sharing the itinerary to follow 🙂

You are welcome! I too love the GayTM.

Great post! The art work is amazing, and I too love the gayTM!

What a great summary! We were in Melbourne in January, 2017. We are tennis fans so added the Australian Open to walking the laneways and sampling the amazing variety of food.

A tip for sports fans — When we were back in Sydney the locals told us that the Melbourne Cricket Ground (AKA “The G”) is a shrine worthy of its own pilgrimage. I can’t comment further since we didn’t know until too late but thought I’d put it out there for others on their way to Melbourne.

You rock! This is a great blog post. So nice to have you blazing the trails for us so we have an idea of where to go and where to tour. Hugs to you both! mg

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Melbourne, Australia

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My first glance at a map of the Melbourne CBD was a little overwhelming. There is quite a lot of ground to cover in order to see the top Melbourne sights. However, when we hit the pavement, we found Melbourne to be a very walkable city. With just a few hours, an ambitious person could easily complete this self-guided walking tour of Melbourne; with added detours and stops, it can be done in a day!

Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Melbourne

Walking tours of Melbourne are an ideal way to get acquainted with the city center – or the Central Business District (CBD) as locals call it. While there are numerous Melbourne Walking Tours that are led by guides, we created this Free Melbourne Walking Tour for visitors who like to explore at their own pace. 

At the end of the post, we share our top tips for Melbourne City Walks, suggestions for themed and guided walking tours in Melbourne and two maps so that you can find your way to each sight. We also include turn-by-turn directions within our Melbourne Free Tour. 

Pro Tip: There are heaps of distractions along the way (many of which we point out during the Melbourne walk), if you have the time, go explore and enjoy!

Pin, Save or Bookmark our Free Walking Tour Melbourne for your vacation to Australia!

#1 Queen Victoria Market

The historic Melbourne market has been in operation since 1878 and is now spread over two city blocks. Allow yourself some time, grab a coffee to go and peruse the stalls. Besides the fresh produce market, there is an indoor deli, outdoor general merchandise market and several permanent stores around the QVM perimeter.

Pro Tip : Find out more about visiting the QVM in our complete article: Queen Victoria Market: Day, Night and Weekend.

Walk east on Victoria Street to Swanston and head south to Latrobe to the…

#2 State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is the second stop on our Melbourne Free City Tour. The library opened in 1856 and has been growing ever since, now holding a collection of more than 2 million books, art galleries and historical exhibits.

Pro Tip : It is free to enter the library – and we recommend going in to take a look around and view the impressively domed La Trobe Reading Room. Then, go upstairs for a view from above on the balcony and a peek at the historical exhibits as well.  

Continue east on Latrobe to Russell Street and turn north to the…

#3 Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne  Jail is a must-see when city sightseeing Melbourne. The jail operated from 1842 until 1929 as a prison and where criminals who had been sentenced to death were hanged, including the (in)famous Ned Kelly .

Pro Tip : The Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the most popular museums in Melbourne – and a ticket is required to enter. Visitors interested in learning about Australia’s most notorious criminals and exploring the prison cells should book a ticket in advance . 

Continue north on Russell Street as it turns into Lygon Street and turn right onto Queensberry Street and head east to the…

#4 Carlton Gardens and Royal Exhibition Building

One of the most beautiful places in Melbourne, the Carlton Gardens is the next stop on our tour. Designated a park in 1839, the 64 acres are perfect for a stroll, rest or picnic.

Aim for the center of the park and the Royal Exhibition Building . Built in 1880 for the Melbourne International Exhibition, it was also the site of the first official opening of Australian Parliament in 1901. It was actually set to be demolished, but was saved and remodeled in the late 1990s. In 2004, it received UNESCO World Heritage status.

Continue walking east to Nicholson Street and turn south as it becomes Spring Street, passing the Parliament Gardens and view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral (if time allows, make a detour to visit the church). On the opposite side of Spring street in the historic Princess Theater. Continue south to the steps of…

#5 Parliament House, Melbourne

The Parliament House is a regular stop on all Melbourne CBD Tours. Built between 1856 and 1930, the Parliament House  is where both houses of Victoria’s Parliament – the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council – still meet today.

Pro Tip: The interior can be seen by guided tour on non-sitting days or from the public gallery when Parliament is in session – both options are free!

For architecture and gold lovers, make a little detour and continue south to the Old Treasury Building , which is free to enter and includes intriguing exhibits detailing Melbourne history. For those short on time, cross Spring Street to Bourke Street and head west to Exhibition Street. Go north to Little Bourke and turn west into…

#6 Chinatown, Melbourne

The next stop on our Melbourne Free Walking Tour is fascinating Chinatown. Marked by ornately painted gates and hanging lanterns, walk the length of Chinatown . Like so many foreigners, the Chinese were also drawn to Melbourne in the 1850’s by the prospect of finding gold. Land was purchased by many Chinese people along Little Bourke and the thriving Chinatown remains today with a bevy of Asian restaurants and shops.

Pro Tip: Among the many places and things to eat in Melbourne, Dumplings in Chinatown are a must-try! We feasted at the no-frills, budget-friendly Shanghai Dumpling House – which is open for lunch and dinner. 

Continue west to Swanston Street and turn south to…

#7 Bourke Street Mall

Continue on your tour of Melbourne City on the Bourke Street Mall. The retail mecca includes everything from high end shops (hello, Tiffany’s) to the necessities (Target) to the flagship store of the Australian department store chain Myer. With wide sidewalks, there is plenty of room for Melbourne street performers to entertain those less interested in shopping.

Pro Tip : As you walk down the street, don’t miss Union Lane for a glimpse at Melbourne’s fabulous street art along the way. 

Continue walking west on Bourke Street to the Royal Arcade (then go inside and walk south). 

#8 Royal Arcade Melbourne

Often included on Melbourne Laneway Tours, the Royal Arcade is a quaint covered shopping street that has been around since 1869. The lane is filled with top-end stores and posh cafes.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the statues of Gog and Magog, two mythical creatures guarding Gaunt’s Clock since 1892, that stand above the entrance.

Emerging onto Little Collins, zig zag west and then south into…

#9 Block Arcade Melbourne

Another upscale covered shopping lane – and perhaps even more opulent than Royal Arcade – Block Arcade , or just ‘The Block’, was once the place to be seen in Melbourne. Opened in the year 1893, The Block Arcade features a hand-laid Italian tile floor, glass ceilings and classic Victorian architecture.

Pro Tip : The two must-see shops at The Block are the Hopetoun Tea Room and Haigh’s Chocolates.  

Exiting on Collins Street, turn left and walk east to Swanston St and to the…

#10 Melbourne Town Hall

Completed in 1870, the Melbourne Town Hall is a historically important social and cultural site in the city. It is also where city council members still meet. Inside, there is an auditorium and a beautiful organ (check the schedule for free organ concerts).

Pro Tip : Visitors can take fee tours of the Town Building, but they must be booked in advance!

Continue walking east on Collins Street, passing the Scots’ Church and turn south on Russell Street. Walk south to Flinders Lane. Rock and roll enthusiasts might want to detour east to AC/DC Lane for street art and a pop into Cherry Bar. Otherwise, turn right and walk west to…

#11 Hosier Lane Street Art

The next stop on our Free Walking Tour of Melbourne is Hosier Lane. One of the best known laneways in Melbourne for amazing street art, get a good, up-close look at the murals on the walls. It isn’t graffiti, which is illegal in Melbourne. The works on this street are commissioned and it’s likely you’ll see someone working on a spray paint masterpiece when you walk through.

Pro Tip : Find out more about the history and culture of Melbourne’s laneways and street art in our guide: Laneways in Melbourne: Alleys, Arcades and Street Art.

At Flinders Street, turn right and walk west to…

#12 St. Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne

Next up on our Melbourne Walk is St. Paul’s Cathedral. The first stone of St. Paul’s Cathedral , a gothic-style church, was laid in 1880, but the spires weren’t completed until 1933. The gorgeous interior includes original baptismal fonts and an 1891 organ.

Pro Tip: Guests can use the descriptive brochures provided at the back of the church to complete an informative self-guided tour of the cathedral. 

Just south of the Cathedral is…

#13 Federation Square

Anyone who walks around Melbourne will likely end up in Federation Square; it’s at the heart of the city and an entertainment hub. Federation Square , which opened in 2002, is a public space that features galleries, museums, restaurants, bars and a place to sit back and relax. Although the square is quite modern, there is a much longer history of this location, tracing back to Aboriginals. The unique architecture is meant to bring different parts together as a whole.

Pro Tip : One of the most popular features of Federation Square is the Digital Façade – or the Big Screen. The gigantic screen streams live sports, news and events, so be sure to take a glance to see what’s on!

Just west of Federation Square is…

#14 Flinders Street Station

All Melbourne Sightseeing Tours include a stop at Flinders Street Station ; it has long been one of the busiest- and most beautiful – stations in Melbourne. The structure occupies 2 city blocks and is the city’s central hub of transportation. Built in 1909, the Flinders Street Station building is truly a Melbourne landmark. 

The corner entrance of Flinders Street Station displays a row of clocks showing the next train departure on each line. In 1983, the clocks were removed and replaced by digital readings. The public was so upset by the change that they brought back the old clocks in one day’s time. If you hear someone say, “Meet you under the clocks,” this is where you will find them.

Head south on St. Kilda Road, crossing Princes Bridge. On the bridge, to the east, you can see the…

#15 Princes Bridge and Classic Melbourne Views

The 400 foot long Princes Bridge spans the Yarra River as part of St Kilda Road. It stands on the site of one of Melbourne’s oldest river crossings and provides wonderful scenic city views to the west.

Looking to the east, you’ll see the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is better known as the MCG or just The G. The 100,000 seat sports stadium was built in 1853 and is the biggest stadium in Australia (and the Southern Hemisphere) – and the 11th largest in the world.

Pro Tip: The stadium is now mostly used for Melbourne’s founding game, Australian Football, but also for cricket matches, concerts and in 1956 it hosted the Summer Olympics.

Finish crossing the bridge. From here, those that fancy a bit of nature may want to detour south to the Royal Botanical Gardens (free to enter). War history buffs will want to head south to the Shrine of Remembrance (also free to enter). Otherwise, continue west along the river to…

#16 Eureka Tower and Melbourne Skydeck

You don’t need to go on a Melbourne CBD Walking Tour to see the Eureka Tower; it’s visible from all over the city. However, when you stand at the base of the Eureka Tower and look up at the 975-foot-tall building it seems to go on forever. The top 10 levels are golden in appearance because the glass is gold. The 24-carat gold-plated windows are a nod to Melbourne’s historic gold rush of the 1850s.

Pro Tip: With a ticket , visitors are invited to ride the elevator up to the 88th floor Melbourne Skydeck (formerly the Eureka Skydeck) and take in the view, which is astounding . 

Continue strolling west along the Yarra River toward the Polly Woodside ship and take a walk along the… 

#17 Polly Woodside and South Wharf Promenade

The Polly Woodside is a preserved trade ship that was launched in Belfast in 1885. Famous for her sixteen successful voyages around Cape Horn between 1885 and 1903, she was fully restored and opened to the public in 1978.

Continue your Free Walking Tour Melbourne along the beautiful riverside stretch in South Wharf. The stylish South Wharf Promenade is lined with fun bars and modern restaurants – and is anchored by the Melbourne Convention Center and DFO Shopping Centre.

Pro Tip: Any number of the South Wharf waterfront establishments are the perfect place to have a meal or a drink with a view. It’s particularly nice at sunset!

Continue along the promenade and cross the Webb Bridge and head into the…

#18 Docklands Melbourne

The Docklands District is the last stop on our Self-Guided Free Tour of Melbourne. The historic area dates to the 1850s when the Victoria Harbor (then called Victoria Dock) was the main port in Melbourne, accepting both immigrants and shipments.

The harbor continued to be in use until the 1960s when it was deemed too small for cargo ships. A revitalization project renamed it the Docklands and has breathed new life into the area. Soaring, shining skyscrapers have shot up along the beautiful promenade, which offers a slew of waterfront restaurants alongside entertainment venues.

After you explore the Docklands, catch a Free City Circle Tram back to the Melbs CBD.

Melbourne CBD Map: Tourist Walking Route

Below we feature two Melbourne Maps; the first is an interactive Melbourne City Attractions Map and the second is a printable Melbourne City Map Tourist Walking Route. 

Melbourne CBD Map with Landmarks

Use this link to Google Maps for our Melbourne Landmarks Map.

Melbourne City Tourist Map Walking Route

To print this map of Melbourne, click on the map to enlarge it, then right-click and select Print. 

Walking Tours Melbourne CBD: What You Will Need

You don’t need much to enjoy walking tours in Melbourne, Australia, but having a few essentials can make the trek much more comfortable!

Stay Connected in Australia

We use the  GlocalMe mobile hotspot, which allows us to connect up to ten devices at one time. The Pocket Wi-Fi also allows us to purchase data online or use local SIM cards.

Walking Shoes for Melbourne

Be sure to wear comfortable travel shoes ! While the city is relatively flat with nice walking paths, our Melbourne City Walk covers some ground. I like to wear lightweight shoes – like these Columbia shoes. Kris likes to wear Merrell trail shoes. 

Melbourne Weather Gear

Weather changes quickly in Melbourne; bring an travel umbrella , lightweight rain jacket , wide-brimmed travel hat and sunscreen . A collapsible water bottle is also ideal for travelers – as there are places around Melbourne where you can refill!

Melbourne Map

Although we have included 2 Melbourne city maps above, a detailed paper Melbourne CBD map – like this one – could be useful to study before you arrive. You can also pick up a free map from a Melbourne tourist office.

Lunch Prep & Day Pack

There are many Melbourne restaurants along the route where visitors can stop for lunch or snacks. However, you could also pick up items at the Queen Victoria Market and have a picnic lunch in a park or along the river. Also, whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll need a great day pack to carry your lunch and all your everyday travel essentials in!

Pro Tip:  Be sure to get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Australia by using our Trip Planning Printables !

More Melbourne Tours

We outlined what we think is the best Free Walking Tour Melbourne. That said, there are several guided tours of Melbourne that may pique your interest. 

Melbourne City Tours: Laneways

Walking tours of Melbourne Laneways and Arcades offer a fabulous introduction to Melbourne’s café and street art culture. Use the info in our Laneways in Melbourne article or join a guided tour of the unique lanes. The small-group tours include history, architecture, and coffee. Get more details!

Foodie Discovery Walking Tours Melbourne, Australia

Combine Melbourne attractions and culinary tastings in one tour. Let a guide lead the way to the best foodie spots in Melbourne as you get local knowledge on the coolest cafes, the best dumplings and hidden hot spots. Find out more!

Guided Tours Melbourne City

Visitors who would rather tour Melbourne City with a guide can join a highly-rated tour on a walk to the top sights. Read fellow traveler reviews!

Pro Tip: Not a fan of big group walking tours? Hire a local guide for one of the Melbourne Private Tours – like this one!

Guided Walking Tours Melbourne: Free

Visitors looking for Guided Free Walking Tours of Melbourne will find that there are numerous companies offering ‘free walks’. While these can be excellent tours, it is important to know that the Guided Free Tours in Melbourne are not, in fact, free. The guides expect to be compensated with tips. 

Melbourne Bus Tour

If our outlined Melbourne City Tour requires more walking than you prefer, consider using the Melbourne Sightseeing Bus. The double-decker Hop On Hop Off bus has two routes, on-board commentary and offers tickets for 24 and 48 hours. Reserve your seat!

Other Melbourne, Australia Tours

Walking tours are not the only free and interesting tours in Melbourne. In fact, some of Melbourne’s best tours are free. Read our post on other top Free Tours in Melbourne !

Want to get out in nature and see more of the surrounding region? The stunning Australian coastline and famous rock formations of the 12 Apostles are just the place! Find out everything you need to know in our review: Gre at Ocean Road Day Tour . 

Looking for more fun activities in Melbourne? Use our ultimate guide to the Best Things To Do in Melbourne !

Start planning your trip to Melbourne, Australia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Tour

• Meeting Point: Meeting point at Federation Square - near Time Out Cafe - look for our Guide with Yellow Golf Umbrella, Melbourne - Australia
• Start Time: 10am and 2pm
• Duration: 3 hours (or 4 hours with lunch option) hours
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Have you ever been to a city and wondered what all the fuss was about? Or wasted time trying to find that cool local café you were told about and ended up missing everything else on offer? Melbourne’s arcades and laneways hide many of these treasures, and Hidden Secrets Tours Lanes and Arcades walking tour is the ideal way to discover and learn about the enchantment of Melbourne.

On our tour of Melbourne’s signature lanes and arcades, we unveil local designers and specialty retailers that often are only found in the city. We reveal some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, with historical tales of Melbourne along the way.
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Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walk

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Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walk (Australia): Address - Tripadvisor

Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Walk

Melbourne's laneways and arcades are the hidden gems of the city, where history, culture and creativity can be found around every corner. Once used as service roads to the main streets, these narrow laneways and covered passageways are now vibrant and lively spaces full of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops.

This walking tour takes you on a journey through some of Melbourne's most charming and colourful laneways and arcades. Start at the iconic Under the Clocks gathering place and end at a century-old tea house. Along the way, you'll discover the stories and secrets of these places and how they reflect Melbourne's character and spirit.

Best of all, you can explore at your own pace and stop whenever you feel like it. Whether you want a coffee, a bite or a drink, you'll find plenty of options in the laneways. You can also chat to the locals and get a taste of their lifestyle. Your Ai tour guide will be waiting for you and will resume the tour when you're ready.

So what are you waiting for? Come with me and discover the essence and beauty of Melbourne!

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1. Drewery Lane: Melbourne’s Hidden Artistic Gem

Drewery Lane is an intriguing location known for its unique blend of art, culture, and history. In Melbourne’s network of alleys, Drewery Lane stands out, showcasing the city’s innovative urban charm.

One of the standout features of Drewery Lane is the art that adorns its walls. Like many of Melbourne’s famous laneways, Drewery Lane features an ever-changing array of vibrant street art. Graffiti murals, stencil art, paste-ups and installations by various local and international artists can often be found here. This artistic expression adds a layer of dynamic creativity to the laneway, making each visit a unique experience.

But what truly sets Drewery Lane apart is its blend of the old and new. Drewery Lane houses trendy cafes, boutiques, and traditional establishments, reflecting Melbourne’s blend of old and new.

Drewery Lane’s ‘Evolve’ project transformed the street into a unique canvas for artists. The variety of artworks, including both ancient relics and futuristic visions, contribute to the gallery’s status as a Melbourne must-see.

Accessibility is another feature of Drewery Lane. Located in the heart of Melbourne, it is easily reachable on foot or by public transport. The nearest stations, Melbourne Central Station and Flagstaff Station are both less than a 10-minute walk away.

2. Tattersalls Lane: Melbourne’s Multicultural Culinary and Artistic Hub

Tattersalls Lane is a bustling laneway tucked away in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. This narrow alley epitomizes the city’s cultural diversity and thriving food scene, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic offerings.

This 19th-century lane was associated with the horse bazaar and Tattersalls, a lottery and horse-racing club. Today, however, Tattersalls Lane is famous for its dynamic culinary landscape. Drewery Lane boasts global flavors with diverse restaurants and bars, serving cuisines and drinks from around the world.

The Shanghai Dumpling House, famed for its delicious, affordable dumplings, draws both locals and tourists year-round. The lane also features cocktail bars and trendy restaurants offering everything from modern Asian fusion to authentic Chinese cuisine.

In addition to its culinary scene, Tattersalls Lane also showcases Melbourne’s love for street art. Tattersalls Lane’s aged walls showcase ever-changing graffiti and murals, adding artistic charm to Melbourne’s streetscape.

3.Hardware Lane: A Bustling Precinct of Cuisine, Culture, and Cobblestones in Melbourne

Located in Melbourne’s CBD, Hardware Lane is known for its vibrant charm and character.

Hardware Lane draws its name from its 19th-century history as a hub for hardware wholesalers. The laneway combines past and future, featuring heritage buildings and a diverse mix of modern businesses, restaurants, and bars.

One of the main highlights of Hardware Lane is its culinary scene. The laneway offers diverse alfresco dining with cafes and restaurants serving Italian, Spanish, Asian, and Modern Australian cuisines. The bustling atmosphere, combined with the aromas of delicious food, creates an alluring sensory experience.

Hardware Lane’s ambiance thrives on live jazz performances, typically staged during lunch and dinner times. Street performers and musicians add a lively, dynamic touch, transforming the lane into a vibrant open-air concert venue.

Notably, Hardware Lane is a pedestrian-only street, encouraging leisurely exploration. The cobblestone street and heritage facades create an old-world charm, contrasting with Melbourne’s modern architectural elements beautifully.

4. Royal Arcade: Stepping into the Historic Charm and Retail Splendour of Melbourne

The Royal Arcade, established in 1869, is a significant heritage landmark in Melbourne’s central business district. As Australia’s oldest surviving arcade, it offers a unique retail experience within Melbourne’s stunning Victorian architecture.

The arcade’s architecture is truly a sight to behold. The arcade’s unique old-world charm comes from its lofty ceiling, grand arches, ornate decorations, and mythical statues, Gog and Magog.

The arcade is a trove of speciality shops that cater to a wide range of interests. The arcade’s diverse shopping experience includes high-end boutiques, jewellery stores, chocolatiers, and toy shops.

Spellbox shop in the Royal Arcade is a beloved destination for Melbourne’s mysticism, witchcraft, and enchantment enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Koko Black, a high-end chocolatier, presents a paradise for the chocolate lover.

Perhaps one of the most charming features of the Royal Arcade is its tradition of chiming the hour. Each hour, the statues of Gog and Magog strike the bells, a spectacle that has been enchanting visitors for generations.

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5. Presgrave Place: Melbourne’s Hidden Oasis of Eclectic Art and Atmosphere

A tiny yet immensely fascinating laneway called Presgrave Place is located right in the middle of Melbourne, Australia. Presgrave Place, a hidden gem that embodies Melbourne’s laneway culture, enchants with its fusion of art, culture, and urban intrigue.

Presgrave Place is renowned for its street art, showcasing a diverse range of small and installation artworks. The “Forgotten Saints” installation in the laneway honours unsung heroes through a cluster of small shrines. It’s this unconventional creativity that truly sets Presgrave Place apart.

Presgrave Place features the ‘Switchboard Cafe’ for exceptional coffee, and ‘Bar Americano,’ a small bar with impactful cocktails.

Even the laneway’s location adds to its charm. Tucked away between bigger streets and lanes, Presgrave Place offers a sense of discovery and escape from the city’s bustle. Yet, its central location makes it easily accessible for those wishing to explore Melbourne’s rich urban fabric.

6. Majorca Building: A Glimpse into Melbourne’s Art Deco Grandeur

Located on Flinders Lane, the Majorca Building is a distinctive architectural gem in the heart of Melbourne. Designed by Harry Norris, the seven-story Majorca Building is a standout example of Melbourne’s Art Deco architecture.

The Majorca Building captivates with its striking black-and-gold façade. Its façade, clad in decorative, glossy black faience (glazed ceramic inspired by ancient Egyptian pottery), is accentuated by gilded ornamentation. The blend evokes Art Deco’s glamour, elegance, and dramatic contrast, imbuing the building with a sense of typical grandeur.

One of the most eye-catching features of the Majorca Building is its ornate entrance. Golden doors and moldings feature intricate Spanish and Moorish designs, paying homage to Majorca’s influence with etchings. A pair of arched windows, adorned with geometric patterns, further enhance the building’s aesthetic appeal.

Once hosting fashion trades, the Majorca Building now houses businesses and residences, maintaining Melbourne’s urban fabric’s vitality.

Despite the transformations over the decades, the Majorca Building has retained its architectural grandeur. It was recognized for its historical and architectural significance and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

7. Flinders Street Station: Melbourne’s Historic Pulse

Flinders Street Station, it’s an enduring symbol of Melbourne, holding a significant place in the city’s social and cultural fabric. With its dome, arched entrance, and clocks, this iconic landmark is a meeting point, arrival/departure spot, and architectural gem.

Constructed in 1909, Flinders Street Station stands as the oldest railway station in Australia and one of the busiest. The station’s French Renaissance-style showcases an iconic façade with a prominent dome, arched entrance, and symbolic clocks.

The station’s grandeur extends indoors with a ballroom, ornate hall, and archways, exuding historic charm in an atmospheric setting.

Flinders Street Station isn’t just about trains. It’s often affectionately referred to as Melbourne’s ‘town square’—a bustling urban meeting place. The steps of the station are a popular meeting spot, embodying the phrase “meet me under the clocks.”

Flinders Street Station, a symbol of Melbourne, has inspired artists and photographers, featuring in artworks, films, and photography.

8. Hosier Lane: Melbourne’s Iconic Canvas of Urban Expression

Situated in the heart of Melbourne, Hosier Lane stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant street art scene and urban culture. This bustling bluestone laneway, with its ever-evolving tapestry of graffiti, stencils, and installations, has become an iconic Melbourne attraction, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Hosier Lane is a dynamic open-air gallery that showcases the creativity and talent of local and international street artists. The artworks are diverse, ranging from intricate murals to politically charged graffiti and impromptu paste-ups. This constantly changing panorama of art gives the laneway an ephemeral quality – what you see one week might be replaced by something new the next.

One of the most recognizable works in Hosier Lane is the mural by street artist Adnate, depicting an Indigenous boy looking towards the future. However, the standout feature of Hosier Lane is not one single artwork but the collective visual impact of the lane’s saturated walls, vibrant with a riot of colours and forms.

Hosier Lane’s appeal goes beyond the visual. The laneway is also a space for social commentary, with many artworks addressing current issues, expressing sentiments, and provoking thought, underscoring street art’s power as a medium for social expression.

Adding to the laneway’s allure are its urban establishments. Movida, one of Melbourne’s top Spanish restaurants, calls Hosier Lane home, while the intimate cocktail bar, Misty, adds to the laneway’s vibrant nightlife.

9. AC/DC Lane: Melbourne’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Art

Located in Melbourne’s central business district, AC/DC Lane pays homage to one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, AC/DC. Renamed in 2004 to honour the band and their contribution to the city’s music scene, the lane is an emblem of Melbourne’s passion for music and street art.

AC/DC Lane is a treasure trove of rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and street art, with murals and graffiti covering the walls, much of it dedicated to the band AC/DC. The most striking feature is a large mural of the late AC/DC lead singer Bon Scott, a poignant tribute that captures the raw energy he embodied.

However, AC/DC isn’t the only band honoured in this lane. The street art also pays tribute to other significant figures from the rock ‘n’ roll world, making the lane a veritable walk of fame for music lovers.

The spirit of rock ‘n’ roll extends to the laneway’s establishments. The Cherry Bar, nestled in AC/DC Lane, is a renowned live music venue known for its rock gigs. Famous for its ethos ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll only,’ it has hosted local and international bands and has become a favourite haunt for rock music enthusiasts.

Additionally, the Lane houses the legendary Pastuso Peruvian Grill, adding a culinary twist to the laneway’s attractions. Its unique Peruvian menu brings a dash of exotic flavours to this Melbourne hotspot.

AC/DC Lane is more than a tribute; it’s a lively piece of Melbourne’s music scene. Moreover, its central location just off Flinders Lane means it’s a heartbeat away from other Melbourne landmarks, thus making it an exciting pit stop while exploring the city.

In conclusion, Melbourne’s historical and cultural hotspots offer a captivating journey through the city’s rich heritage and vibrant urban life. From the hidden artistic gem of Drewery Lane to the multicultural culinary and artistic hub of Tattersalls Lane, each destination immerses visitors in a unique experience. The bustling precinct of Hardware Lane, the grandeur of the Royal Arcade, the hidden oasis of Presgrave Place, and the Art Deco splendor of the Majorca Building all contribute to Melbourne’s allure. Flinders Street Station stands as a symbol of the city’s pulse, while Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane showcase the vibrant street art and rock ‘n’ roll spirit that define Melbourne.

Embark on a memorable journey and unveil the captivating tapestry of Melbourne’s historical and cultural hotspots!

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Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walk

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Melbourne Laneways & Arcades Self-Guided Walk (Australia): Address - Tripadvisor

Walking Tours of Melbourne

Personalised walking tours of melbourne, amazing melbourne lanes & arcades tour.

‘What a wonderful way this was to explore the inner secrets of Melbourne….stories, the personalities,  architecture, artworks came to life. Mark “Thanks everyone for a terrific day yesterday exploring the interesting but often overlooked side of Melbourne.  Thanks so much to our terrific guide whose enthusiasm and passion for Melbourne shone through in all of his stories and giveaways shared with the team! ” The Haigs Chocolate Team . Thank you for our Team walking tour on Wednesday. People from the group could not speak highly enough of you and the tour content.  They all thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt a lot about our city including the locals!  Michelle.

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Do you want to make the most of your visit to Melbourne and immerse yourself in the local culture? Heard about the cool laneways in Melbourne and want to discover some of the best with a friendly local? Don’t miss a special selection of secret galleries, hidden shops and laneway cafes!

This wonderful, cultural walking tour of Melbourne will give you a feel for this city that only comes with spending time with a passionate, knowledgeable local. During the tour you will be able to enjoy a coffee, experience a customised mix of history, architecture, street art, galleries, shops, interesting stories and more in a small group of no more than 10 people.

Lunch is optionally available upon the conclusion of the Laneway Tour on Fridays. Join your tour guide for lunch at Mr Tulk Cafe – within the State Library of Victoria building. Enjoy anything on the menu and a drink of your choice!

(http://www.mrtulk.com.au/)

Laneways of Melbourne

• When – All days excluding Public Holidays
• Starting Time – 10 am Mondays to Sundays
• Duration – 3 hours (approx.)
• Starting Place – on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets

Laneways of Melbourne with LUNCH (Fridays only)

• Fridays - or by prior arrangment
• Starting Time - 10am
• Duration - 3 hours 45 minutes (approx.)
• End Point - Mr Tulk Cafe (La Trobe Street)

House Keeping

All guides are First Aid Level 2 qualified but please notify us if you have any outstanding health issues. Controlled pedestrian crossings are used at all times except when crossing small laneways where we look out for your safety. This is a walking tour so wear suitable footwear and please arrive 5 minutes early to ensure the tour starts on time. Most dietary requirements are catered for with the lunch option, please list any requirements upon booking. Please note : we can cater for those with disabilities or families with children younger than 13yo on a Private Tour.

Discover Melbourne through the eyes of a local. Let us lead you through this wonderful, cosmopolitan city to explore the secret laneways, quirky cafes, funky shops and eclectic galleries. Hear about the city’s rich history, see examples of its fabulous, diverse architecture and enjoy an iconic Melbourne coffee or hot drink.

Hidden Bars of Melbourne

Cocktails, whisky, gin and vodka! Discover the hidden bars where Melbourne comes alive after dark. We take you to night spots off the beaten track from rooftops and cellars to small intimate spaces for a quiet drink. Experience Melbourne from a new perspective – follow us down hidden laneways, upstairs to venues with no signage and to very special bars with amazing delights!

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries Tour

Venture into the opulent world of Melbourne in the 1920s and celebrate the fabulous ABC TV series Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries by taking this exciting walking tour. This in depth tour begins with a light afternoon tea of cakes and a hot beverage at Cafe Excello, followed by a fascinating walking tour discovering some of the series’ production sites within Melbourne’s CBD and many of the ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ buildings of that era. It concludes with a delicious, specially created Phryne Fisher cocktail at Melbourne’s famous Gin Palace.

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Melbourne city street art and graffiti tour

Updated March 2018: Melbourne is renown for its laneways and lively street-art scene. We encourage you to lose yourself in the moment, and perhaps see if you can find some gems of your own!

Melbourne city street art and graffiti tour created by katemcneil

Description

Melbourne is famous for its arcades and laneways. There are many hidden art works tucked around street corners; little surprises waiting to be discovered. Some of these creations are officially commissioned by the City of Melbourne, while others are less official ... Of course, the nature of street art is that it's forever changing, so don't be too disappointed if the art displayed on this map has changed or worn away. Want more Melbourne Street Art? Here's a link to our Fitzroy Street Art walk . And here's a walking map created with a Melbourne photographer revealing the best places to get great photos of Melbourne.

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Points of Interest

1. Start at Zevenboom Lane

This precinct near 'Little Lon' is a great place to start our street art tour proper. Consider this alley cat your guide?

2. Oh Donald! (on Hardware Street)

Sign of the times ... You may need a drink after seeing Trump sans clothes, so luckily there are some great bars along here as well as art works!

3. Detective stories

There's a series of images here that tell a story about the man in the suit. What's this guy up to?

4. Robot man on Warburton

Looks like the robot man has made friends with the weird creatures to his left. It seems robots need friends too.

5. Rankins Lane

Is that Toucan holding a spray can? Wander further along Rankins for more great finds plus an amazing green wall.

6. Smell the art ...

You may interrupt some live spray painting on Union Lane if you're lucky! Otherwise come and see what you can find - these walls are an ever-changing canvas.

Find out more

7. Mermans?

If you have time, take a little detour down Carson Place; Ttere some moody pieces along here.

8. A warning

Head down Howey Place and left into Presgrave - before all the lovely artworks and messages for the future are papered over?

9. Coffee and crowds on Degraves

Degraves has to be the ultimate coffee stop on your street art tour. You may see plenty of others hunting for art here.

10. Pedestrian subway gallery

* Note this subway gallery will be closed for the Metro Tunnel construction. (It was included as for many years it was used as a free art gallery space).

11. Hosier Lane

Hosier Lane is the Grandaddy of laneway art commissions in Melbourne and is arguably where the city's street art reputation was honed. It's saturated with colourful creations.

12. Side step

Take a left at Rutledge Lane where there are lots of interesting things to see. Not sure about this one though!

13. Protest (in crochet)

Hosier Lane attracts many artists who have something to say so keep your eyes wide and your heart open.

14. Food city?

Apparently not all the well-known chefs rendered here are popular with Melbourne's fastidious palates.

15. Great Scott! ACDC Lane

Now here's the whole reason we decided to update our street art route! ACDC Lane is unmissable if you truly want to understand this city, its love of live music and of art.

16. More than music

Home to the much-loved Cherry Bar and a holy site for ACDC fans, yes. But there is more to love here if you care to look.

17. RIP Malcolm

Did we mention ACDC?

18. Tattoo where the (art) is

Down on Duckboard Place you'll see what looks like a giant love letter to Melbourne, but there's also a reminder about the forgotten people in our city and everywhere.

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Chocolate and Spice Tour

• Walking tour

Warm up this winter and discover the essence of chocolate on this delectable walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Spice up your senses with stories and recipes about cinnamon, cardamom and the intoxicating vanilla bean. Discover many exotic food plants during this aromatic adventure.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Melbourne Gardens Melbourne Victoria 3004

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• Visit website for Chocolate and Spice Tour

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