The Best 10 Shopping Centres in Melbourne
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Article published: 11th October 2023
When it comes to shopping, Melbourne has something for everyone. The Aussie metropolis is home to a diverse range of shopping centres, from high end luxury, top brand fashion focused malls to more vintage and bargain oriented centres.
No matter what you are looking for, Melbourne’s shopping centres have something for you.
Here we list our top suggestions for best shopping centres in Melbourne (in no particular order) that every shopper should be aware of and explore.
This article is focusing on the best shopping centres. If you are interested in markets, check out our best markets in Melbourne post.
Contents
Chadstone – The Fashion Capital
First one on the list is Chadstone Shopping Centre, often referred to as “The Fashion Capital.”
This large shopping centre is Australia’s largest (also one of the biggest in the all of the Southern Hemisphere) and offers a top of the range Melbourne shopping experience. With over five hundred stores and even a hotel (!), you have to check this one out. At Chadstone, shoppers can find an impressive range of top brands, luxury fashion retailers, beauty outlets, cutting edge technology stores and so much more. With plenty of parking on site and public transport access, Chadstone also has heaps of dining and beverage retailers, making it a must visit destination for a day of shopping.
Melbourne Central
Next up in our shopping centre guide, we turn to Melbourne Central. Located right in the heart of city, at the corner of Swanston and La Trobe Streets, and across from the State Library, Melbourne Central is a historic Melbourne shopping destination.
A vibrant modern shopping centre and destination, large hub of activity with a historic and famous Coop’s Shot Tower at the core of it. Shoppers can explore a diverse selection of retail stores, offering everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and homeware. Plenty of dining options and some good cafes to complete the Melbourne experience. Definitely worth a visit.
Emporium Melbourne
Continuing on with CBD shopping centres. Alongside Melbourne Central, in Lonsdale Street, you will find Emporium. If you like fashion, Emporium Melbourne is a must see.
This boutique shopping centre with over 200 stores has a big range of top brands and high quality stores. Take in the beautiful immaculate halls and explore a world of fashion, beauty and lifestyle retail options. And when you’re ready for a break, explore what the food court has to offer.
Highpoint Shopping Centre
Located in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Highpoint Shopping Centre is a retail retreat for both locals and visitors alike.
The large Maribyrnong shopping centre boasts a wide variety of stores, including some top fashion and specialty retailers. The centre also has a strong focus on entertainment. See the latest movies at the Hoyts cinema or challenge your friends to a round of bowling at Strike Bowling. And foodies will not be dissapointed by Highpoint with a top selection of dining options.
Bourke Street Mall
OK, maybe not a shopping centre in the classical sense to many people, but you can’t go past the historic Bourke Street Mall if you are talking about shopping areas in Melbourne.
Located at the very heart of Melbourne’s CBD, it is a pedestrian (look out for the trams) shopping paradise. Lined with flagship stores (think Myer and David Jones) and iconic brands, it is a dynamic shopping destination and a true Melbourne experience. Don’t miss the amazing street performances at Bourke Street Mall in addition.
DFO South Wharf
Next in our list of the best shopping centres in Melbourne, we have the DFO South Wharf. This one is a little different. It has an amazing collection of retail factory outlet shops in a beautiful spot in Melbourne. Australian and international brands. Discount prices. Range of stores. A beautiful waterfront promenade just outside. You can’t go wrong with this DFO, a must check out spot for anyone looking for some great deals.
The District Docklands
Located on the waterfront, the spacious indoor and outdoor The District Docklands is a modern shopping and entertainment precinct. It feels like more than just a shopping centre. It has a large variety of outlet stores and day to day goods on offer. If you’re visiting with family, you can enjoy the family friendly activities, including a mini golf course, bowling, arcade complex as well as a nice playground. The District Docklands also has eat in and takeaway options to satisfy the cravings for the whole family.
QV Melbourne
Another awesome shopping centre located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, QV Melbourne is a convenient shopping destination with more of a focus on day to day life, lifestyle and fashion. With a unique mix of Australian and international shops, showcasing the best of fashion as well as department stores, a gym, medical centre and amazing coffee and food options, QV Melbourne is not to be missed.
Westfield Doncaster
A list of best shopping centres in Melbourne would not be complete without Westfield Doncaster. Located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, this shopping centre is known for its impressive range of fashion outlets and retailers. A suburban shopping destination, Westfield Doncaster offers anything you would want in a shopping centre experience – numerous top brand retailers, department stores and unique, specialty shops. The recent expansion of their dining and entertainment precinct makes it join this exclusive list.
Eastland Shopping Centre
The Eastland Shopping Centre is another eastern suburbs shopping centre. Well connected by roads and highway, located in Ringwood, the Eastland Shopping Centre is a modern shopping complex. With a large range of over 200 retailers, exclusive cinema complex and a plethora of dining options, it is another top shopping centre to visit if you are in the area.
Conclusion
Melbourne’s best shopping centres cater to just about anyone. Every style, every budget, every taste. You will find Melbourne’s shopping scene can rival some of the world’s best. We hope you found this post useful and enjoy your shopping day in the heart of Melbourne!
Have we missed a Melbourne shopping centre that should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below! Happy shopping!
Important disclaimer: We published the Best Shopping Centres in Melbourne article in October of 2023. Please keep in mind that any of the information on this page can change at any time and from time to time, we may make a mistake (please let us know if we do). Always refer to the individual store or official shopping centre details to avoid disappointment or a wasted trip. Melbourne Buddy is in no way affiliated with any of the shopping centres.
