Royal Arcade Melbourne
A stunning 19th-century Italianate arcade in Melbourne's CBD, featuring ornate architecture, unique boutiques, and the historic Gog and Magog clock.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Royal Arcade Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 19th-century Italianate arcade in Melbourne's CBD, featuring ornate architecture, unique boutiques, and the historic Gog and Magog clock.
"Absolutely stunning architecture, a must do if in cbd area, so much ornate features you will be blown away with boutique shops throughout."
🎯 Admire the Clock
Don't miss the Gog and Magog clock striking the hour – a truly unique historical spectacle! :clock1:
🛍️ Boutique Browsing
Explore the diverse range of independent shops, from jewellers to perfumeries, for unique finds. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gog and Magog Clock
Center of the arcade
Witness these historic 1867 figures strike the hour, a captivating mechanical marvel that has impressed visitors for generations.
Italianate Architecture
Throughout the arcade
Marvel at the ornate tessellated tiles, grand archways, and intricate mosaic floors that create a timeless, elegant atmosphere.
La Belle Miette
Within the arcade
Indulge in exquisite macarons and pastries from this charming patisserie, a sweet highlight for many visitors.
Santa Maria Novella
Within the arcade
Discover this historic Italian perfumery, offering a unique sensory experience with its artisanal fragrances.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
A Feast for the Eyes (and Stomach!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Admire the Clock
Don't miss the Gog and Magog clock striking the hour – a truly unique historical spectacle! :clock1:
🛍️ Boutique Browsing
Explore the diverse range of independent shops, from jewellers to perfumeries, for unique finds. :shopping_bags:
🍰 Sweet Treats
Indulge in delicious macarons from La Belle Miette for a delightful culinary experience.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture and ornate details – it's a photographer's dream! :camerawithflash:
Who maintains the Gog and Magog clock in Royal Arcade?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Admire the Clock
Don't miss the Gog and Magog clock striking the hour – a truly unique historical spectacle! :clock1:
🛍️ Boutique Browsing
Explore the diverse range of independent shops, from jewellers to perfumeries, for unique finds. :shopping_bags:
🍰 Sweet Treats
Indulge in delicious macarons from La Belle Miette for a delightful culinary experience.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture and ornate details – it's a photographer's dream! :camerawithflash:
☕ Coffee Break
Enjoy a coffee or tea in one of the charming cafes and soak in the arcade's ambiance. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Arcade for its breathtaking 19th-century architecture and the charming, unique boutiques it houses. Many highlight the Gog and Magog clock as a must-see historical feature and enjoy the delightful culinary offerings, particularly the macarons. While some note its resemblance to other arcades, its preserved elegance and serene atmosphere make it a beloved Melbourne gem.
"Absolutely stunning architecture, a must do if in cbd area, so much ornate features you will be blown away with boutique shops throughout
Dollow people like me as we make the effort to present amazing places around the world for you to evaluate"
Rob the Nomad
"This is a very cool little shopping space in Melbourne. I highly recommend checking it out! We stopped and had coffee in one of the cafe’s and purchased some souvenir gifts for family. It was a nice escape from the rain!"
Christopher Leach
"Fantastic period arcade with individual merchants each with stunning window shows. Would highly recommend a walk through to learn regarding some of the ancient history things, that’s the beautiful, and even u can enjoy coffee also there."
Sahil Khanmotra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Arcade is conveniently located in the Melbourne CBD, easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams along Bourke Street or Swanston Street, and it's a short walk from Flinders Street Station. Many visitors also use the free City Circle Tram (Route 35) which stops nearby.
While there isn't direct parking within the arcade, several multi-story car parks are available in the surrounding CBD area, such as Melbourne Central or Secure Parking. Walking from these car parks is usually quite short.
Yes, the Royal Arcade is centrally located and within walking distance of many other popular Melbourne attractions like the Block Arcade, Hosier Lane, and the State Library of Victoria.
For a free and scenic way to get around the CBD, hop on the City Circle Tram (Route 35). It circles many key attractions, including those near the Royal Arcade.
The closest major train station is Flinders Street Station, which is a pleasant 5-10 minute walk to the Royal Arcade. From there, you can easily navigate to the arcade.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Royal Arcade is completely free. You can wander through its beautiful architecture and browse the shops without any admission fee.
The arcade itself is generally open daily, with shops typically operating from around 10 AM to 6 PM. However, individual shop hours can vary, so it's best to check specific retailers if you have a particular store in mind.
The Gog and Magog clock is a permanent fixture within the Royal Arcade and can be viewed freely by all visitors. There is no separate charge to see it.
The Royal Arcade is usually open on public holidays, but individual shop hours may differ. It's advisable to check the specific opening times of the shops you wish to visit beforehand.
No booking requirements are necessary for general entry to the Royal Arcade. It's a public space designed for exploration and enjoyment.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shops & Dining
The Royal Arcade features a charming mix of independent boutiques, including jewellers, gift shops, perfumeries like Santa Maria Novella, and the delightful patisserie La Belle Miette. +1
There are several cafes within the Royal Arcade where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and light refreshments. La Belle Miette is also a popular spot for delicious pastries and macarons.
While the arcade has various gift and novelty stores, a dedicated toy shop isn't a prominent feature. However, you might find unique toys or games in some of the general gift stores.
The renowned perfumery located in the Royal Arcade is Santa Maria Novella, an historic Italian brand offering artisanal fragrances and skincare.
Absolutely! The boutique nature of the shops in Royal Arcade makes it an excellent place to find unique souvenirs, from handcrafted jewelry to specialty food items.
📸 📸 Photography & History
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the Royal Arcade. Its stunning architecture provides a beautiful backdrop, but be mindful of other visitors and shop displays.
The Gog and Magog clock dates back to 1867 and was originally built by clockmaker Thomas Gaunt. It's a significant historical artifact within the arcade.
The Royal Arcade is celebrated for its beautiful Italianate-style architecture, featuring intricate tessellated tile floors, grand archways, and a stunning glass roof, all preserved from the 19th century.
Yes, the Royal Arcade is a heritage-listed building, recognized for its historical and architectural significance to Melbourne.
While there aren't official guided tours specifically for the Royal Arcade, many CBD walking tours include it as a stop. You can also explore its history through online resources or by reading the information provided within the arcade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring, consider a stop at La Belle Miette for some delightful macarons – a perfect treat for little ones (and adults!).
The arcade's relatively compact size makes it manageable for families, and its central location means it can easily be incorporated into a day of city exploration without overwhelming young children. Remember to keep an eye on little ones, as the beautiful mosaic floors can be slippery.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the play of light filtering through the glass roof, which can create dramatic shadows and highlights. The Gog and Magog clock itself is a unique subject, offering a chance to capture a piece of living history. Don't forget to explore the shopfronts, each with its own character and charm, providing diverse elements for your shots. Visiting during quieter times will allow for more unobstructed photos.
💖 Couples & Anniversary Trips
Enjoy a romantic coffee or pastry at one of the charming cafes, reflecting on your trip or celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Splendor of Royal Arcade
This heritage-listed building is more than just a shopping destination; it's a piece of Melbourne's history. The preservation efforts ensure that the arcade retains its original charm, offering a stark contrast to the modern city surrounding it. Walking through the Royal Arcade feels like stepping onto a movie set, with its detailed facades and charming shopfronts.
For those interested in architectural photography, the Royal Arcade offers endless opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow, the geometric patterns of the tiles, and the rich detailing provide a stunning canvas. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era and capture some truly memorable shots.
Gog and Magog: Melbourne's Timeless Guardians
The story behind Gog and Magog is tied to the clockmaker Thomas Gaunt, whose company was responsible for their creation. Originally, they were part of a larger clockwork display. Today, they stand as a testament to Victorian-era craftsmanship and ingenuity. Many visitors find themselves waiting for the top of the hour just to witness this fascinating spectacle.
For families, the Gog and Magog clock is often a highlight, captivating children and adults alike with its animated striking. It's a moment of shared wonder that adds a special touch to the Royal Arcade experience, making it more than just a shopping trip but a journey through Melbourne's past.
A Culinary Journey Through Royal Arcade
Beyond the sweet delights, the arcade also hosts cafes offering a more relaxed dining experience. These spots are ideal for a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, or an afternoon tea. They provide a welcome respite from exploring the city, allowing visitors to pause and enjoy the elegant surroundings.
For those seeking unique artisanal products, the presence of Santa Maria Novella, a historic Italian perfumery, adds another dimension to the sensory experience. While not strictly a food item, the exquisite scents and the history of the brand contribute to the overall refined atmosphere of the arcade, making it a destination that appeals to multiple senses.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit