Marvel at the bars, design stores, writers’ studios, galleries and boutique fashion outlets in Melbourne’s Flinders Quarter, the territory of the city’s creative elite and the stomping ground of its fashionistas.

Head to the heart of Melbourne’s original ‘rag trade’ between Swanston and Elizabeth streets and its modern-day selection of local and international fashion, like Arabella Ramsey, Incu and Lenko. Duck into Alice Euphemia in Cathedral Arcade, a haven for experimental designs by young and emerging designers. There’s always something to challenge or delight.

You’ll also discover Australia’s highest concentration of commercial galleries around the Flinders Quarter. Find quirky letterpress and contemporary sculpture in the Nicholas Building, see the many sides to indigenous art, and snap up one-off designs at Craft Victoria – a gallery and shop showcasing the work of the state’s finest craftspeople.

You’ll have no trouble finding a place to recharge, with an endless array of hole-in-the-wall cafes, bakeries, sushi, sandwich and soup bars, and restaurants and bars. Loiter over Centre Place at Hell’s Kitchen, and earn your rock stripes at Cherry on AC/DC Lane.

Explore the Flinders Quarter on foot, just half a block north from Federation Square, or jump on the free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle (stop 2).