Melbourne Central
📍 Address: Cnr LaTrobe and Swanston Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
Located in the heart of Melbourne and directly connected to Melbourne Central train station, this is a massive shopping mall. You can access it without getting wet even on rainy days, making it a strong ally for Melbourne sightseeing, where the weather can be unpredictable. Asian supermarkets are also located near the station’s ticket gates, which is very convenient for picking up drinks or daily necessities during your trip.
An absolute must-see at this facility is the gigantic conical glass roof, ‘Glass Cone,’ designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa. Inside it, the brick-built ‘Coop’s Shot Tower,’ constructed in 1889, is perfectly enclosed, offering a unique Melbourne view where historical architecture merges with modern design.
Additionally, a huge ‘Karakuri Clock’ made by Seiko is installed in the open atrium. Every hour on the hour, adorable animals like koalas emerge with charming music. It’s a popular and established meeting spot among local Japanese residents in Melbourne. The mall is lined with popular fashion brands and general stores for young people, and it’s also packed with deep attractions to enjoy between shopping, such as a mini-museum dedicated to Australia’s national boot brand, ‘R.M.Williams.’
Emporium Melbourne
📍 Address: 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
Directly connected to Melbourne Central via a skybridge, this upscale shopping mall allows for seamless shopping. It houses Japanese brands like Muji and Uniqlo (prices are higher than in Japan, but convenient for sudden purchases locally) and offers a spacious, sophisticated environment for a relaxed shopping experience.
When looking for souvenirs here, you absolutely must stop by ‘T2,’ a hugely popular tea specialty store originating from Australia. The expansive store features a wide array of tea leaves from around the world, with a generous selection for tasting. In particular, the ‘Melbourne Breakfast’ with its sweet vanilla aroma is a classic souvenir you can only buy here. Staff can also provide beautiful gift wrapping upon request, making it perfect for finding presents for loved ones.
If you get tired of shopping, head up to the well-equipped food court. It’s bustling with locals and tourists alike, ideal for a casual and delicious meal. You can easily enjoy authentic Asian food, characteristic of Melbourne’s multicultural scene, such as the Chicken Laksa and Hainanese Chicken from the Singaporean restaurant ‘Chinta Ria Soul,’ which receives rave reviews.
Melbourne Souvenirs
📍 Address: 224 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
Located on Swanston Street, the main thoroughfare of the CBD (Central Business District), this classic souvenir shop boasts excellent accessibility. Although not overly spacious, it’s packed with Australian-themed items, making it an ideal spot for travelers wanting to efficiently pick up standard souvenirs.
You’ll find a wide variety of items perfect for ‘ba-ramaki’ (shareable) souvenirs, such as koala and kangaroo plush toys, boomerangs, T-shirts and hoodies with local logos, and keychains. Some items are sold at discounted prices, and the reasonable pricing is another attractive point. The staff at the counter (especially a well-regarded Asian male staff member with glasses) are very friendly, allowing for a relaxed shopping experience with pleasant music playing in the background.
Furthermore, a very unique feature of this store is its ‘hidden’ identity as a mecca for adult board and table games. The second floor hosts a play area, known to enthusiasts, for miniature games like ‘Warhammer,’ creating a deep space where avid local gamers gather. It’s a unique spot that offers a glimpse into the passionate subculture of Melbourne, different from your average souvenir shop.
Queen Victoria Market
📍 Address: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
This is one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can truly experience Melbourne’s food culture and local vibrancy. Located within the city’s free tram zone, it’s easily accessible for tourists. While it opens early in the morning, visiting around lunchtime when all the stalls are fully open is recommended for the most lively atmosphere. (Note: It’s closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, so be mindful when planning your itinerary.)
The vast grounds feature fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and other food items, as well as areas selling clothing and miscellaneous goods. For souvenir hunting, the Melbourne-made candle specialty store ‘Mintstone’ comes highly recommended. With a rich variety of scents and sizes, it’s sure to be appreciated as a stylish small gift. Also, some outdoor souvenir stalls may not accept credit cards, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for peace of mind.
Don’t forget to enjoy some street food while you shop! In the food stall area, Australian-favorite meat pies (available in various types like chicken and pork, with a pleasantly small size) and ‘Dutch pancakes’ that you can top with your favorite sauce and ice cream are exquisite. You’ll also see locals standing and eating fresh oysters and lobsters on the spot in the seafood section. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Melbourne citizens while savoring delicious local food.
The Melbourne Shop by Lumbi
📍 Address: Centreway Arcade, 10/259 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
For those who want truly tasteful local items rather than ‘run-of-the-mill tourist souvenirs,’ we highly recommend this hidden gem of a shop located in the Centreway Arcade on Collins Street.
Inside, original goods designed and manufactured in Yarraville, near Melbourne, are beautifully displayed. You’ll find highly stylish items you’ll want to use daily, such as tote bags, T-shirts, and cushion covers featuring graphics of Melbourne’s cityscape, trams, and local place names. The prices are surprisingly affordable, with stylishly packaged soaps and magnets, for example, costing around $10 for three, making them very reasonable for their quality.
Before you visit mass-produced cheap souvenir shops, be sure to stop by here once. Enjoy a conversation with the friendly owner, who is full of local pride, and take home your own unique ‘Australian-Melbourne essence’ – it’s sure to be an excellent shopping experience.
Smart Shopping Tips for Souvenirs in Melbourne
While prices in Australia are generally on the higher side, you can get souvenirs at a better value by being strategic about where you shop. For instance, for a large quantity of ‘ba-ramaki’ (shareable) souvenirs for colleagues or friends, it’s essential to utilize Queen Victoria Market or large supermarkets in the city (like Woolworths and Coles). At supermarkets, popular snacks like Tim Tam are often on half-price sale.
On the other hand, for gifts for family, special friends, and treats for yourself, it’s good to strike a balance by choosing items that prioritize Melbourne’s unique design and quality, such as ‘T2’ teas or local artist items from ‘The Melbourne Shop by Lumbi.’ Don’t forget to carry an eco-bag (plastic bags are charged for locally) and some small cash (for the market) to enjoy a fulfilling souvenir hunt!
