Acland Street Melbourne
Melbourne's iconic Acland Street in St Kilda, famed for its European cake shops, diverse restaurants, and vibrant street life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for coffee
Acland Street Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for coffee
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Melbourne's iconic Acland Street in St Kilda, famed for its European cake shops, diverse restaurants, and vibrant street life.
"A touch of Europe in the heart of Melbourne, Acland Street is a must-visit for its charming vibe and sweet treats."
🍰 Cake Shop Hopping
Don't settle for just one! Sample treats from multiple cake shops for the full Acland Street experience.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander down the street, soak in the European ambiance, and discover hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
European Cake Shops
Acland Street
Indulge in decadent cakes and pastries from a row of iconic European-style bakeries.
Eclectic Dining Scene
Acland Street
Savor global flavors from vibrant restaurants, cafes, and eateries lining the street.
Charming Boutiques
Acland Street
Discover unique fashion, gifts, and homewares in Acland Street's stylish independent shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sweet Life
St Kilda's Vibrant Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍰 Cake Shop Hopping
Don't settle for just one! Sample treats from multiple cake shops for the full Acland Street experience.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander down the street, soak in the European ambiance, and discover hidden gems.
☕ Coffee Break
Many cafes offer great coffee alongside their famous cakes. Try 95 or Leroy's for a local favorite.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking can be tricky; consider nearby parking lots or public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍰 Cake Shop Hopping
Don't settle for just one! Sample treats from multiple cake shops for the full Acland Street experience.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander down the street, soak in the European ambiance, and discover hidden gems.
☕ Coffee Break
Many cafes offer great coffee alongside their famous cakes. Try 95 or Leroy's for a local favorite.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking can be tricky; consider nearby parking lots or public transport.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Some venues offer live music, adding to the street's vibrant nightlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Acland Street is celebrated for its iconic European cake shops and vibrant atmosphere, offering a delightful sensory experience. While many enjoy the diverse dining options and charming streetscape, some visitors note that the quality of the famous cakes may not always meet expectations, and the area can become quite crowded and noisy, particularly on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Acland Street is easily accessible by tram from Melbourne CBD. Tram routes 96 and 16 stop directly on Acland Street. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.
No, Acland Street is located outside Melbourne's Free Tram Zone. You will need a valid Myki card or use a contactless payment method for your tram journey.
Trams are the most convenient way to get around St Kilda and connect to other parts of Melbourne. Electric scooters are also a fun option for exploring the foreshore.
It's a bit of a walk from the CBD to Acland Street (approximately 6-7 km). Taking a tram is highly recommended for efficiency and comfort.
While there are shortcuts through the CBD for pedestrian movement, they don't directly lead to Acland Street. Public transport is the most direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Acland Street is a public street and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the shops and atmosphere.
Opening hours vary by establishment. Most cake shops and restaurants are open daily, with many cafes operating from early morning to late evening.
There are no entry fees for the cake shops. You pay for the delicious treats you purchase.
Yes, Acland Street is very pedestrian-friendly, with wide footpaths. There are plans to further enhance its pedestrian experience.
For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, booking a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The iconic European cakes from shops like Monarch Cakes are a must-try. You'll also find diverse international cuisines and great coffee.
Monarch Cakes is a classic choice, but some locals suggest 95 or the Jewish bakery for unique and high-quality options. +1
Rococo is known for its pleasant ambiance without loud music, and Donovan's offers a more private, albeit pricier, experience. Claypots can also be quiet at lunchtime.
Acland Street boasts a wide array of restaurants, from Italian and Greek to modern Australian and Asian fusion, catering to diverse tastes.
Absolutely! Many cafes along Acland Street offer delicious brunch options, perfect for a leisurely start to your day.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant storefronts of the cake shops, the charming European architecture, and the bustling street life. The colorful displays are particularly photogenic.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
A short walk will take you to St Kilda Beach and Luna Park, offering iconic Melbourne photo opportunities.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for storefronts.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask staff if you plan to take extensive photos inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many cafes are accommodating, and the general atmosphere is lively. Consider visiting during the day to avoid the later evening crowds. While the street itself is walkable, keep an eye on little ones as it can get busy. For a broader family experience in St Kilda, Luna Park is just a short walk away. 💰 Budget Travelers
couples
The European ambiance lends itself to a relaxed and intimate experience. Consider visiting on a weekday evening for a more tranquil atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sweet Heart of St Kilda: Acland Street's Cake Shops
While Monarch Cakes is a long-standing favorite, local recommendations suggest exploring other gems like '95' or the Jewish bakery for potentially more unique or higher-quality offerings. Many visitors recommend a 'cake crawl,' sampling a treat from several different shops to experience the full spectrum of Acland Street's confectionery offerings.
Acland Street: A Culinary Crossroads
This makes it an ideal spot for groups with varied tastes or for those looking to explore different flavors in one location. For those seeking a more intimate dining experience or a place conducive to conversation, Rococo is often recommended for its pleasant, non-intrusive music, while Donovan's offers a more private, upscale option.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit