Block Arcade

The Block Arcade is one of Australia’s premier shopping destinations with its glass canopy and carved stone befitting its contemporary outlook.

The arcade serves as a connection point between Elizabeth Street, Collins Street and Little Collins Street in the CBD. The arcade, built in the late 19th century, was inspired by the grandiose Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Italy’s most populous city, Milan. With construction coming to a close in 1893, the arcade opened its doors to shoppers.

The architecture of the building has remained unchanged for the many shops that occupy the arcade and any visitor with an eye for detail will appreciate the uniformity in design. Add to this the seamless plant-holders with matching colours and the intricate lighting and it is easy to see why The Block Arcade offers the ultimate shopping experience.

One of the most popular clients at the arcade is the Hopetoun Tea Rooms. The characteristic windows of these tea rooms are filled with mouth-watering cakes whose aroma draws you to the location. A photographer’s playground, Hopetoun is a must-visit for anyone within Melbourne. Haighs Chocolates, one of Australia’s renowned chocolatiers, is also another popular client at the arcade. Decadently delicious chocolates and sweet treats can be bought here.

Popular with food-lovers, the arcade hosts a number of food events yearly leading to increased human traffic at the numerous eateries.

For those who would like an authentic experience of The Block Arcade, there are group tours held twice per week. The tours run on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting from 1pm. The groups meet in front of the popular Hopetoun Tea Rooms.