Royal Arcade (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Royal Arcade?
What makes it 86% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy the ornate glass roof, pose for photos, share hot chocolate or macarons at Koko Black, and watch Gog and Magog strike, making a short, romantic indoor stop downtown.
Positives:
- Heritage charm: Listed Victorian building with original glass roof and tiled floors.
- Clock spectacle: Hourly Gog and Magog show offers a memorable moment for couples.
Challenges:
- Peak crowds: Arcade narrows near the hour and during lunch, limiting free movement.
- Limited seating: Few benches inside; plan short café breaks or bring a small mat.
What is Royal Arcade?
- A Victorian-era, Italianate-style shopping arcade in Melbourne’s central business district
- A heritage-listed building distinguished by its soaring glass-vaulted roof, intricate cast-iron arches and mosaic-tiled floor
- Home to the mechanical figures Gog and Magog that flank the Gaunt’s clock at the Little Collins Street entrance
What is so special about Royal Arcade for couple trip?
- Explore a heritage-listed Victorian arcade under a glass roof
- Catch the unique Gog and Magog clock show each hour
- Browse quirky boutiques and share gourmet macarons
- Sip artisan hot chocolate in an ornate café setting
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough to admire architecture, shop boutiques, and catch the hourly clock show.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Royal Arcade
Admire Victorian architecture:
Walk under the high glass roof, view mosaic floors and ironwork arches.
Tip: Start at Little Collins Street and walk through to Bourke Street.
Watch Gog and Magog clock show:
See the two mythical figures strike the hour on Gaunt’s Clock.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes before the hour at the Little Collins end.
Share macarons at The Little Royal:
Try French-style macarons or a mini tower for two.
Tip: Order a sample box from A$3 each and sit on the bench nearby.
Enjoy hot chocolate at Koko Black:
Sip single-origin hot chocolate in an ornate café setting.
Tip: Visit after 3 pm to avoid the morning coffee rush.
When is the best time to visit Royal Arcade (Melbourne, Australia)?
Interior lighting stays bright year-round. In winter, warm up with Koko Black hot chocolate. In summer, visit before 11 am to avoid crowds.
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Reviews of Royal Arcade (Melbourne)
Sahil Khanmotra
Fantastic period arcade with individual merchants each with stunning window shows. Would highly recommend a walk through to learn regarding some of the ancient history things, that’s the beautiful, and even u can enjoy coffee also there.
Maria Ngo
This arcade is a little more demure than the more popular Block Arcade but is nonetheless a worthy arcade to visit. This arcade bears similar hallmarks of posh historical arcades where well dressed ladies and gents might come to find a delicate gift for a certain someone.
Christopher Leach
This is a very cool little shopping space in Melbourne. I highly recommend checking it out! We stopped and had coffee in one of the cafe’s and purchased some souvenir gifts for family. It was a nice escape from the rain!
HYUKJAE CHOI (ERIC)
I've been visiting Block Arcade a lot lately. It's a really cool and impressive place. Be sure to visit~ :)
Hao
Royal Arcade in Melbourne is an absolute gem! Nestled in a charming, ancient building, it exudes timeless elegance with its beautifully preserved architecture. The variety of specialized shops is delightful, offering unique finds and treasures that cater to all tastes. It’s a strikingly close resemblance to Queens Arcade in Tāmaki Makaurau, which makes it feel like a home away from home. Despite ...
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| The Little Royal macarons (2) | AUD 6 |
| Koko Black hot chocolates (2) | AUD 16 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 22 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Royal Arcade
- Time your visit: Arrive 5 minutes before the hour to beat the crowd for the clock show.
- Off-peak hours: Visit before 11 am or after 2 pm to enjoy quieter aisles.
Map of Royal Arcade
Address: 335 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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About Royal Arcade
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 438 891 21210 BEST nearby Activities
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