The Melbourne CBD boasts an abundance of culturally significant buildings and a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered, enriching your urban adventure.
Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant tapestry as you discover cosy bars in historic buildings, or explore the unique properties preserved by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), offering a captivating journey through time.
The trail can be enjoyed on foot, or make the most of Melbourne's famous tram network to explore these hidden gems. Plan your journey on Public Transport here.
Before you start your adventure through Melbourne’s Hidden Heritage, be sure to check each property’s open times. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Suggested Duration: 1-2 Days.
Step back in time to Melbourne’s most feared destination since 1845, Old Melbourne Gaol. Shrouded in secrets, wander the same cells and halls as some of history’s most notorious criminals, from Ned Kelly to Squizzy Taylor, and discover the stories that never left.
Shop a curated and ever-evolving collection of quality pre-loved and designer garments at VAULT, our wonderful vintage boutique located within Melbourne’s iconic Block Arcade.
Built in Belfast in 1885, the three-masted cargo vessel carried coal and wheat between England and South America. You can join the crew, come aboard for a tour of the ship and discover what life was like on a tall ship sailing the seven seas.
Get an insight into life during the Gold Rush era when you visit one of the few remaining pre-fabricated iron buildings in the world.
Melbourne’s oldest surviving building, the home of Victoria’s first Lieutenant-Governor, Charles Joseph La Trobe. Obtain a glimpse into La Trobe family life and enjoy the romantic garden re-created using plants available in the 1840s and 1850s
Completed in 1929, the Majorca Building in Flinders Lane is a heritage icon in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Reminiscent of a fabulously stylish New York City apartment, the Majorca Martini Suite invites you to step back in time to the Roaring Twenties.
Established in 1883, The Windsor combines the classic beauty and architecture of the Victorian age with the graciousness of that bygone era. The heritage-protected hotel is located across the stately Parliament House.
Rendezvous Melbourne was built in 1913 and is one of Australia’s most historic hotels. This heritage-listed hotel is located on Flinders Street overlooking the Yarra River and many of Melbourne’s top attractions within reach.
Little Lon Distilling Co. Is a small Melbourne gin distillery located in a heritage listed red brick cottage (c1877) in the CBD. The stores their gin and whisky barrels at the Old Melbourne Gaol.
Located in Melbourne’s famous Block Arcade, The Tea Rooms are steeped in history. Opening in 1892, it is home to the oldest tearooms in Australia. The Tea Rooms continue the timeless tradition of high tea, cake and sandwiches.
High tea experiences are abound in Melbourne, but the Windsor is the only place to hold the distinction of 140 years of Afternoon Tea service. Hosted in the grand historic dining room, settle in for Afternoon Tea with a Sparkling Wine or Champagne, and a selection of 11 specialty teas.
South Melbourne Market opened in 1867, making it Melbourne's longest continually running market.
With almost 150 stalls operated by small business owners, the market features a huge range of products as well as, giftware, restaurants, cafes, take-away food, flowers and much more.
In the very heart of Melbourne through an ornate wrought iron gate and into another realm... Sink into a scone or enjoy a selection of brunch options while overlooking the Ornamental Lake at the historic Royal Botanical Gardens.
