Melbourne Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys, and Inside Tips

Melbourne Shopping

Melbourne is an upbeat cosmopolitan city in Australia. With tall buildings, a diverse population, and a wealth of things to do, this city is known for its active lifestyle. Along with plenty of sights and attractions, Melbourne offers a variety of shops featuring both local and import items.

Sampling the Fares at the Open Air Markets

If you are looking for local crafts, fresh produce, pastries and meats, souvenirs and other specialty items, the Queen Victoria open air market is definitely the place to go. It’s just a short walk from many of the major hotels and there is even a food court for lunch.

Save Money at the Factory Outlets

For excellent deals on clothing, shoes, handbags, and jewelry, be sure to check out the DFO shopping mall. International brands like Nike, Guess, Nine West, Calvin Klein, and Laura Ashley can all be found within this center. All of the products are seconds or discontinued merchandise so there are plenty of deals to be found. Along Bridge Road, warehouse shops sell last season’s stock, discontinued items, and damaged goods that can save you a buck.

Searching for Souvenirs

No trip would be complete without grabbing a few souvenirs for family and friends. The Melbourne Visitor’s Center has a selection of travel books, children’s toys, post cards, magnets, and other tourist-type items. If you like to collect postcards, visit Cheaper Party Supply on Queen Street or Jumbuck at Melbourne Central. For quirky items, your best bet is the Royal Arcade on Flinders.

Check Out Chapel Street for a Day of Shopping

For those who just like to window shop and meander about, Chapel Street in South Yarra and Prahran is home to a wide variety of retail establishments and restaurants. You will find plenty of upscale shops, an electronics store, homewares, furniture, and salons.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Melbourne shopping.