Laneways in Melbourne, Australia are local hangouts as well as tourist hot spots. The unique Melbourne alleys are a fascinating side to the city and proof that the fashionable metropolis is constantly reinventing itself.
From the hip graffiti alleys to the posh shopping arcades to fabulous restaurants that offer atmospheric alfresco dining, the lanes of Melbourne are must-see!
Our site utilizes Affiliate Links. If you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Discovering Laneways in Melbourne
There is a tangible energy in Melbourne’s central business district. Historic pubs and modern skyscrapers coexist and a steady stream of trams transport people down the main thoroughfares.
We learned early on to explore beyond the major streets to get a good look at the riveting culture that lies down unassuming lanes.
The alleys, arcades and street art are mesmerizing – and discovering the depths of these areas is one of the Best Things To Do in Melbourne!
History of Melbourne Laneways
The history of these spaces is an intriguing tale of city planning. In 1837, Melbourne’s street plan was laid out in a grid.
The pattern of major and minor streets alternating (99 feet and 33 feet wide, respectively) resulted in blocks of 20 parcels of land.
As building commenced on the streets, the alleys between the buildings provided delivery entrances and a space for rubbish collection.
In most cases, these were hidden from the public eye. Only in a few instances were shop entrances located in the back alleys.
Melbourne Arcades were developed for an entirely different purpose. The covered areas, which feature magnificent architecture, were designed specifically as shopping.
As time progressed, some buildings were remodeled (or rebuilt all together) and the shifting boundaries eliminated some of the secret streets.
Melbourne Alleys Today
For a period of time, these dark lanes were far from inviting. In the 1990s, however, there was a campaign to revamp them.
Art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars have taken up residence and have re-purposed the once seedy space. New life has been breathed in creating atmospheric shopping, dining and drinking experiences.
In the barren lanes that are too narrow or unable to host shops and restaurants, the walls are now used as canvases for street artists.
Best Lanes in Melbourne
Exploring Melbourne’s famous laneways is an excellent way to experience the city!
We walked down graffiti lanes as if they were art museums. We savored the coffee culture at cafes and relished alfresco dining on hidden streets.
Now, we are sharing our top tips for what to see and do in the Melbourne Arcades and Lanes with you!
Pro Tip: We include a Laneways Melbourne Map at the end of the article that is marked our favorite spots.
Melbourne Laneway Restaurants And Bars
Some of the best bars, cafes and restaurants are hidden in the Melbourne laneways. We are highlighting a few of our favorites for dining and drinking.
Melbourne Hardware Lane Restaurants
Hardware Lane was one of the first laneways in Melbourne converted into usable space. It was revamped in the 1980s – and was done so with a flair of European ambiance.
For most of the day, the brick lane – which runs from Bourke Street to Lonsdale – is closed to vehicles and tables spill out into the pavement.
With the heavenly scent of garlic wafting through the air, we couldn’t pass by the popular Max on Hardware restaurant for a taste of Italy.
Pro Tip: Looking for the best Hardware Lane bars? Kirk’s Wine Bar gets rave reviews. More top Hardware Lane cafes are actually on Hardware Street (which continues north of Lonsdale).
Bank Place Laneway Melbourne
Situated in the Financial District, Bank Place is a historic gem, with most heritage buildings dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
To travel back in time, we went to The Mitre Tavern. It’s the oldest building in all of Melbourne and has retained its historic appeal as the city has literally grown up around it.
Originally built as a private residence, the first liquor license was issued in 1868. Today, businessmen huddle around tables with an after-work pint.
We joined the Tuesday night trivia and our team, ‘The Best Yank Trivia Team in the Southern Hemisphere’, came in dead last, but that didn’t take away from our good time!
Corrs Lane
Tucked deep into the crevices of the city are incredibly fun theme bars. These odd and eccentric establishments add an extra touch of entertainment to an already thriving bar scene.
On Corrs Lane, the speakeasy-style Berlin Bar will make you feel as if you have been let in on an incredible secret. The east-versus-west décor is a visual representation of Berlin during the Cold War.
Driver Lane
Just off of Little Bourke Street, this space hosts one of the best bars in the city: Beneath Driver Lane. This basement boozer is lit by candles and is renowned for their whiskey selection and exceptional cocktails.
Degraves Street and Centre Place
Located just steps from Flinders Street Station, Degraves is a bustling laneway that is home to several cafes and restaurants. Degraves Espresso stands out, however, the artisan ice cream at Pidapipo is not to be missed!
Across Flinders Street, Centre Place continues north and is absolutely packed with a variety of inexpensive eats. Longstanding favorite ShanDong MaMa Mini Dumplings Restaurant is a good choice.
Tattersall Lane
What we like best about this lane is that it is boasts both fantastic eateries and phenomenal street art. The narrow alley in Chinatown is lined with tall, brick buildings – which house a few of the best Asian restaurants in the city.
Arcades in Melbourne
Arcades differ from laneways, as they were purposely built for shopping. They are for pedestrian use only and exude a refined character with tiled floors and natural sunlight filtering through glass ceilings.
Here, rather than urban bars, there are fancy cafes, extravagant chocolate shops, artist galleries and boutique clothing stores.
Famous Melbourne City Arcades
Two of the oldest Melbourne arcades, Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, were developed in the late 1800s. Cathedral Arcade, which was built in the 1920s, is the city’s best Art Deco arcade.
Block Arcade
The Block Arcade, located at the corner of Elizabeth and Collins Street, was completed in 1893. It is a striking example of Victorian era architecture.
Lined with specialty shops featuring local products, the mosaic floor is the highlight – and it is absolutely stunning. The Tea Rooms 1892 is also not to be missed!
Royal Arcade
Built in 1869, this venue features high-end fashion stores and chic coffee shops. The retailers here are well-known for their gorgeous window displays.
However, don’t forget to look up to see the mythical characters, Gog and Magog, who stand guard at the clock which chimes on the hour!
Cathedral Arcade at Nicholas Building
Located at the corner of Flinders Lane and Swanston Street, the Nicholas Building stands as a historic treasure.
The first floor is occupied by the dazzling Cathedral Arcade. Dating to the 1920s, the arcade boasts various shops, including vintage stores, bookshops and souvenir outlets.
Laneway Graffiti in Melbourne
Not all laneways in Melbourne have been converted into trendy enclaves. Instead, many brick walls of the back alleys have become a place for artists to express themselves.
Entire spaces are covered in spray paint, stencil work and murals. It’s not technically graffiti (which is illegal), they are commissioned works of art.
Best Graffiti Lanes in Melbourne
The works here are constantly changing – especially on walls that can be reached without scaffolding. When a street art mural is painted over, it’s lost forever – but the continually creative nature of street art only enhances the dynamics.
Hosier Lane
Hosier Lane is the most well-known spot and it is seldom void of people. Not only are creators – armed with cans of spray paint and stencils – often found here, but locals and tourists come to see the current displays.
Union Lane and AC/DC Lane
Union Lane is another popular street art spot in Melbourne – and AC/DC Lane features fantastic displays, as well. We suggest making time for both!
Melbourne Laneways Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our recommended spots tagged below.
Melbourne Laneway Tours
Another great way to get an introduction to these areas is to join a local guide who shares their favorite spots along with hidden gems!
Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Tour
On this small-group tour, you learn more about history, architecture and the current street art scene. Included on the outing is a cup of coffee and an option to upgrade to a gourmet lunch with wine!
Hidden Melbourne Laneway Bars Tour
Guided by a local, on this tour you’ll visit four of the best watering holes – sipping craft cocktails, regional wine and local beer along the way!
More Melbourne Travel Guides
- Plan your complete Melbourne Itinerary
- Explore with our FREE Self Guided Melbourne Walk
- Discover more for less with 5 Free Melbourne Tours
- Experience the Queen Victoria Market
- Take a Day Trip on the Great Ocean Road
As you plan your trip to Melbourne, organization is key. Use our Travel Planning Printables to keep track of the details of your vacation to Australia!
Start planning your trip to Australia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
