Another iconic (and probably the most crowded) place in Melbourne. It is home to Victorian architecture and modern skyscrapers, churches and banks, atmospheric restaurants and hipster bars. Locals call the western end of Collins “New York” for a cluster of banks and offices, and the eastern end – “Paris” for expensive boutiques and cafes with outdoor terraces. Melbourne says, “Money is made at the west end of Collins Street to spend at the east.”
The walk from “Paris” to “New York” is a separate tourist route. Start at The Scots’ Church at the corner of Collins and Russell. It is a historic Neo-Gothic style Scottish church that was once the highest point in the city. The interior is paneled with wood and decorated with stained-glass windows.
Walk to the intersection of Collins and Swanston and lift your head up. You will see the Art Deco Manchester Unity Building (220-226 Collins St) and its Gothic tower. Step into the Manchester Unity Arcade to see Melbourne’s first escalator, beautiful mosaic floors and cast copper elevator doors. Be sure to ride this elevator the size of a small room.