Melbourne's most iconic shops

Metropolis Bookshop

Curtin House has been around for over 100 years, and is now home for all sorts of secret boutiques, restaurants and bars hidden inside. Metropolis Bookshop hides on its third floor and is the perfect place to find a hard-to-find title. From new release architecture titles to books about the history of punk, you're bound to discover that very niche gift you've been hunting for.

Paint n Powder

The historic Royal Arcade‘s grand design transforms into a Christmas shopping paradise during the festive season. One gift boutique that you can't miss is Paint n Powder. This local icon has been serving glittering glam for over 60 years and is packed with fragrances, scarves, jewellery and more.

Mecca Bourke Street

MECCA's new flagship store has already gained iconic status. Once home to the largest bookstore in the world, the stunning art deco building is your one-stop-shop for Christmas shopping. Here you'll find everything from cult-status make-up and skincare brands to flowers and perfume. Got an end-of-year celebration? Book in at the apothecary to get your hair, makeup and manicure done.

City Hatters

City Hatters is one of the few Melbourne shops that can boast being in the same location for over 100 years. Trading since 1910, this tiny hat shop has been owned by the Buck family for most of its history. Venture beneath Flinders Street Station and discover their range of headwear, from tweeds to trilbies.

Retrostar

A walk through this hidden retro emporium is something of a rite of passage for every Melburnian and where you'll find the best one-of-a-kind presents. Retrostar Vintage Clothing is filled with items from the 1940s – 1990s, from band tees to ball gowns. Mingle with ageing punks, vintage clad teens and curious newbies as you browse.

Hearn's Hobbies

Hearn’s opened its doors way back in 1947. As a family of World War Two pilots, the Hearn brothers wanted to share their hobby collection with other enthusiasts. Almost 80 years later, Hearn’s offers a huge selection of rare items that would please even the pickiest hobbyist.

Gewurzhaus

The Lygon Street outpost of Gewurzhaus is where you'll find stocking stuffers and Kris Kringle gifts for at-home cooks. From baking spices to barbeque rubs, there's something for everyone. The merchants even mix up unique festive season blends. Think a Christmas pudding spice, Swedish scroll sugar and gingerbread hot chocolate.

Readings

A favourite among word nerds across the city, Readings Books and Music has been a Carlton icon for almost 60 years. It began life as a tiny solo shop in 1969. In the pre-internet era Melburnians would even cluster at the window to view ads for share houses. Don’t miss their Lygon Street neighbours Readings Kids – a haven when you're looking for books for the little ones in your life.

Clementines

Home to handmade Victorian produce and products, everything in Clementine’s is charmingly local. Pick up stocking stuffers like rooftop honey then shop for street art inspired gifting, fierce fashion and more. Snap a pic with the orange Vespa on your way out to make your visit even more iconic.

The Paperback Bookshop

The Paperback Bookshop has been a champion of the independent book scene since the 1960s. Next door to the also legendary Pellegrini’s, this gorgeous spot is a beacon for Melbourne lit-heads. Browse the shelves for that special literary gift and lose yourself among the shelves of cookbooks, novels, design books and more.

Rocksteady Records

Rocksteady Records offers good grooves, vinyl, turntables and more – with a fierce local focus. Find your way up the art deco dream that is Mitchell House and discover rare treasures, new releases and indie wax. Ask local legend Pat for expert advice if you just can’t find what you're looking for.

Hill of Content

Hill of Content is 100 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. Since opening in 1922, this cute book nook has offered Melburnians the best local and international page turners. From food to travel, romance, drama and more – there's a book to be found for all discerning readers out there. The store has just started a new chapter at its new digs. Here you'll find the same content you love in a new home at 32 Bourke Street.