Where to shop and eat in Melbourne's iconic Collins Street

Luxury brands in the Paris-end, boutique shopping, world-famous croissants and incredible architecture. Melbourne's most iconic street is well worth a weekend of exploring.

Boutique shopping in beautiful Melbourne buildings

From Gucci to Golden Goose, there is no shortage of divine retail destinations along Collins Street. The Paris End boasts century old buildings, now home to the finest global brands. Louis Vutton is housed in a Victorian Mannerist style structure from 1887. 80 Collins (which contains Moncler, Sener Besim, Georg Jensen and more) is the result of a 800-million-dollar renovation. The Burberry flagship store's grand entrance leads to two levels of iconic fashion. More brands in beautiful buildings include Longchamp, Grey Reid Gallery, Tiffany & Co. and the Block Arcade.

Have a night out under $20

It's not all oysters and champagne along this luxurious city strip. There are still deals afoot if you know where to look. Visit the Kino Cinema on Mondays and score movie tickets for just $8.50. Pop into Yakimono from 4pm to 6pm every Thursday and sip your way through $9.50 cocktails. The George on Collins has something for everyone, including cheap cocktails four days a week. Head there between 3pm and 6pm, Tuesday to Friday for $8 beer, wine and spirits.

Try high tea in a 131-year-old building

Dine under grand chandeliers and decorative ceilings at Collins Coffee House. Visit the heritage building for pumpkin and sage tarts, quiche and cucumber ribbon sandwiches. Plus enjoy classic scones, handmade cakes and tea or coffee. Now there’s a perfect day out. All the goodies are baked fresh onsite daily, and gluten-free selections are also available.

Discover hidden gems in an iconic little street

Head off the main drag to enjoy cafe-lined Little Collins Street. Have an iconic espresso at Caffe E Torta. Try oat milk iced lattes and dacquoise cookies inside Bench Coffee Co. Then continue your coffee tour at institutions like Industry Beans, Quists and Everyday Midtown. If dinner is what you're after, try immaculate fusion dining at Aru, or nab super cheap noodle bowls at Dodee Paidang.

Find world-famous croissants and macarons

Looking for Melbourne’s most celebrated croissants? The New York Times reckons Lune’s are the best in the world. As in Paris, they’re baked on-site throughout the day. The line is long, but well worth it. La Belle Miette (at the tippy top of Collins Street) is also world-renowned for its perfectly crafted macarons. Pair with specialty French tea for a proper afternoon delight.

Book special occasion dining experiences

Birthday, anniversary or just because. Collins Street has some of the best fine dining experiences in Melbourne. Start at trendy top end spots like Society and Yakimono. Find traditional French cuisine, complete with white linen and silver service, over at Philippe. Push the boat out and then some at the glamorous new Reine & La Rue. Looking for something extra special? Lock in the Dom Perignon room at Vue De monde. Combining gastronomy, art and luxury, the space can host up to 12 people.

Plan the ultimate Melbourne staycation

Hotels are in high supply on Collins Street, and it makes for an extremely convenient staycation spot. Check out The Grand Hyatt for Italian marble bathrooms, king-sized beds and beautiful views of the Yarra. Live au Francais in The Sofitel, with Parisian-chic styling and creative European cuisine. The Westin, InterContinental and Next Hotel are more fabulous options for a weekend retreat.