Melbourne is famous for its laneways which are a major feature of the city. The hidden attractions in the centre of Melbourne are filled with impressive street art and countless small bars, cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. There are over 40 laneways and arcades in Melbourne for you to discover and explore. Below are the best secret laneways in Melbourne that you cannot miss seeing; 

Hosier Lane 

If you were to choose one Melbourne laneway that showcases the best of Melbourne’s street art, Hosier Lane is it. Situated off Flinders Street and close to Federation Square, Hosier Lane is home to Melbourne’s best display of urban art. Ever-changing, talented graffiti artists use the walls of the street as the canvas for their creative works. Be amazed by the colourful and unique urban art that covers the laneway from head to toe.

Photo by: chinu786

Degraves Street

A hustling and bustling laneway that is located close to the main Flinders Street train station in Melbourne, Degraves Street runs between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane. With a Parisian and European feel, alfresco cafes and restaurants with umbrellas as well as quaint shops occupy the space. The popular laneway is the perfect way to soak up the charming Melbourne vibe with a coffee and sweet baked treat watching the world go by.

Photo by: nadyapost

Centre Place

A short walk from Degraves Street is the bluestone cobbled Centre Place. The laneway is often featured in Melbourne’s tourism campaigns and was the first Melbourne laneway to be given a revamp in the 1980’s. Cafes, bars, boutique shops and street art line Centre Place. Soak up the vibe as you take a wander through the laneway.

Photo by: babyfibula

AC/DC Lane

For fans of ACDC, one of Australia’s most famous and celebrated rock bands of all time, AC/DC Lane is a must see. With access from Flinders Lane and running between Exhibition and Russell Street, the laneway was renamed ACDC in 2004 as a tribute to the band. The band filmed their 1975 music video of the hit ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’ on Swanston Street, near AC/DC Lane. You can view street art that is dedicated to ABDC in this laneway.

Photo by: elliesinwonderland

Duckboard Place

Close to AC/DC Lane is Duckboard Place which has a great mix of street art, posters and some great eats. Historically, it was once an area where World War II troops would visit the nearby Duckboard House during their downtime. What is also significant about Duckboard Place it is the only place to view Melbourne's remaining piece by world-renown street artist Banksy. The stencils of the two parachuting rats are located at the end of Duckboard Place.

Photo by: nanettewhite

Hardware Lane

Described as the upmarket version of Degraves Street, Hardware Lane is sophisticated and has a strong European feel. Restaurants and small bars are a big feature of the red paved laneway. Hardware Lane is popular with locals who will visit after finishing work to have a drink or bite to eat. Listen to the live music being played as you walk along Hardware Lane which has lots of fantastic alfresco restaurant options.

Photo by: thecitylane