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Overview
The inner city of Melbourne is a grid-block full of hidden bars, world-class coffee, and gem-filled laneways. Walk just a few hundred metres down the street, and you'll continuously find yourself discovering something new—a new boutique, cafe or atmosphere.
In the heart of the Victorian capital sits Flinders Lane. Known for its laneways and creative energy, Flinders Lane is a bustling thoroughfare of a central neighbourhood. Look a little closer, though, and you can find the best of the city.
Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders
Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders is for the curious traveller wanting to be located in the beating heart of Melbourne. The boutique accommodation is filled with nods to the glamorous and history-filled neighbourhood. The hotel's chic styling is an ode to the legendary photographer Helmut Newton, who owned a studio on Flinders Lane in 1946. Find creative inspiration in your hotel room before immersing yourself in the culture-rich neighbourhood.
Whether you're looking for some staycation inspiration or you're planning a weekend trip to Melbourne, here's what to add to your Flinders Lane itinerary.
Dukes Coffee Roasters
Inner City Coffee
You can't start a morning in Melbourne without coffee, and Flinders Lane has it in droves. Dukes Coffee House is an institution that serves strong specialty coffee. The hole-in-the-wall cafe has only a couple of seats available, but soak up the buzzing New York City-style atmosphere as you wait for a takeaway. Across the street is Elio's Place. The new bistro opens day-to-night with a classic Melbourne cappuccino on offer for your early morning caffeine fix. Finally, you can't go past a trip to Brunetti Oro on Flinders Lane. The recently-renovated cafe serves the finest Italian cakes, pastries and, of course, coffee. Brunetti Oro also offers brunch if you want some hearty food before your day of exploring on foot.
RetroStar
Vintage Shopping
While the inner north suburbs of Fitzroy and Brunswick often get crowned the pinnacle of Melbourne's vintage shopping, Flinders Lane is also a treasure trove of unique second-hand pieces. In the Nicholas Building (yes, the one from Courtney Barnett's Elevator Operator), you'll find Vintage Sole. Twenty years ago, Vintage Sole began by repairing and selling cowboy boots. Now, they have three stores across Melbourne that sell curated vintage pieces. On the first floor of the same building, you'll also find RetroStar Vintage Clothing. It's Australia's largest vintage store, so you're sure to find a fashionable souvenir.
Kuwaii
Shop the Boutiques
As well as its vintage stores, Flinders Lane is famed for its edgy and independent boutiques. Flinders Lane was once the city's fashion capital with fashion houses, designers and rag traders all congregating in the neighbourhood. 'The Lane', as it was known by the end of the 20th century, was an Australian institution due to it clothing and textiles trades.
Now, you can still see the remnants of the lane's history with stores like Alpha 60, Up There, and Kuwaii all operating from the famous Melbourne laneway. Wander through the boutiques and heritage buildings to soak up the city's fashion history.
Bistrot Bisou
Foodie Laneways
Splintering off Flinders Lane is Degraves Street. The pedestrian precinct is what most tourists would think of when they hear 'Melbourne laneway'. Dotted with cafes and restaurants, there are several places to grab a quick bite or a hearty meal before you get on with exploring the neighbourhood. Enjoy fresh Japanese food at Onigiri, authentic Italian gelato at Pidapipo, and people watch at The Quarter. If you're looking for a foodie experience in the heart of Flinders Lane, consider a wander to Bistrot Bisou. It's a Melbourne twist on classic French cuisine, designed by acclaimed chef Luke Mangan, that's perfect for a casual long lunch or a romantic date night.
Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders
In the Heart of the Action
Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders is truly situated in the heart of the action. With its character-filled interior designs and nods to the charming (yet culturally rich) inner city neighbourhood, the hotel is a launchpad for your urban adventure. Enjoy the plush beds, city views, and rest and recharge before heading back out into Melbourne's bustling Flinders Lane precinct.
Want to stay in the thick of it? Find out more about Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders here.
Lead image: Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders