This is one of the narrow streets with shops, coffee shops and eateries that Melbourne is so proud of. From Collins you can turn north, watch the most famous Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, and then go back or walk the entire Arcades and Lanes circular route. Most of them take place under the roofs of houses, so it is nice to walk here on a rainy or cold day. The route is 1.5 hours long and 2.5 km long, but you’ll almost certainly hang out in one of the countless bars or shops.
In the exquisite Block Arcade, explore mosaic floors, glass domes and wall décor. Check out the Hopetoun Tea Room (Shop 1-2, 282-284 Collins St) for stunning desserts and a vintage ambience (you will likely have to queue to get a table). In Australia’s oldest shopping arcade, the Royal Arcade, find two giant statues of Gog and Magog, the “Time Father” statue of Chronos, and a magic shop.
Back on Collins St, be sure to walk to the ANZ Gothic Bank (380 Collins St) and go inside. The architecture and interior of the building are amazing. It’s like a cool Gothic church, only better. And people come here to work every day!