Best places in Melbourne to enjoy shopping

A shopping vacation in Melbourne is what most of the visitors coming to Australia look for. This large city has plenty of shopping options available for avid shopaholics. This beautiful city is renowned for its fashion style. The shopping zone in the city in fact forms a grid, bordered by Queen Street, La Trobe Street, Exhibition Street and Finders Street. Most of the stores can be found in these streets.

The Bourke Street is yet another important place for shopping. The section of Bourke Street located between the Elizabeth Street and Swanston Street forms the Bourke Street Mall. Two major department stores are situated here. Being at the heart of the shopping district, it is undoubtedly the perfect place to begin your shopping sojourn in Melbourne. Let us now have a glimpse into some of the best shopping areas which are absolutely a must visit.

Shopping around in Arcades and Lanes
Begin your shopping in the city by visiting its many arcades and lanes. The important ones include The Block Arcade, The Royal Arcade and Degraves Street. Exploring these places will offer a great experience.

The Block Arcade is situated at 282 Collins Street. Visiting this historic arcade will be as though you are transported to the days of yore. Shopping here is simply a fascinating experience. It will make you realize the importance of Melbourne and the need to explore it. Apart from making your purchases, you will enjoy eating at the numerous small restaurants and cafes here. You will simply love savoring delicious chocolates at Haigh’s or relish High Tea at the popular tea house.

Make The Royal Arcade your next destination. It is situated at 335 Bourke Street Mall. Get ready to be welcomed by the going of the Gaunt's Clock the moment you enter here on the hour. Two mythological creatures –Mc Gog and Gog – flanking the clock will be there to amaze you. This old arcade is quite marvelous. It has been prominently showcasing its Renaissance Revival panache since the year 1870. Here you will discover many charming gift and boutique stores. It is also home to one of the finest Chocolate Cafes in the city. Do remember to stop at Koko Black's for hot chocolate or a sample tray.

The Degraves Street is essentially a large lane replete with many small eateries with their umbrellas down in the middle of the street covering chairs and tables eagerly waiting for the diners. This lively little strip is also filled with many small interesting boutiques. You will love shopping and eating here.

Best areas for Inner City Shopping
Now that you have already visited the arcades and lanes, there are still more areas waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best areas for inner city shopping. These include Melbourne Central, QV, Melbourne’s GPO, Australia On Collins, and Southgates Art and Leisure Precinct. Let’s get an insight into the offerings in these areas.

Melbourne Central is situated at the 360 Elizabeth Street. This modern shopping center in the city is located above one of the subway stations. This fabulous place encircles the old Shot Tower museum. It is also renowned for its gigantic pocket watch that resonates every hour bringing vibrancy here. Many important chains, food and entertainment options can be found in this large complex spread over several levels on the higher floors.

The QV shopping centre is located on the corner of Lonsdale and Swanston Streets. This huge shopping complex is a base for necessities. It is home to a supermarket, a Chemist, Hervey Norman store for home and electronics goods, Asian groceries stores, business and office works supplies stores, Dan Murphy’s large bottle shop and Big W budget department store. A large food court here caters to the lunchtime rush. There is also an excellent restaurant offering dining options for lunches and dinners. You will love shopping at the numerous boutique stores here.

The Melbourne’s GPO is situated on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Bourke Street. This upscale boutique retail center is home to some of the biggest names in fashion in the city. Walking through the majestic doors of the GPO, the old Post Office in Melbourne, is an amazing experience in itself. Shopping here is indeed a joyous experience.

Australia On Collins is situated at 260 Collins Street. It is housed in a slightly older building and is mostly visited by women because of the large number of beauty and fashion shops scattered here. It is also home to a large fabric and craft store named ‘Lincraft’, which is situated at the rear. The food court is located in the basement and is extremely busy during lunchtime.