Just across Flinders Lane from Centre Place, bustling Degraves Street was one of the first Melbourne 'laneways'. A pedestrian walkway linking the city's fashion precinct with Flinders Street Station, it remains an iconic and sociable spot for drinks, dining, browsing and people-watching. Join the happy hubbub, which at any time includes students
and shoppers, tourists and lunching office workers.

Take your friends from out-of-town for coffee or a wine at stalwart Degraves Espresso, a quintessential Melbourne spot.

Though the vibe cast by the cafe umbrellas in the shadow of the impressive Majorca Building is somewhat Parisian, dining on Degraves veers towards the Mediterranean, with The Quarter leading the casual but stylish charge. For those keen for a sweet treat, Pidapipo satisfies with its artisanal Italian gelato.

Browse the boutiques while you're here. Pick up local and Victorian-made gifts – including ceramic reusable coffee cups – at Clementine's. Stock up on artisan notebooks at Il Papiro and canvas the goods at Senior Art Supplies.

Descend the stairs to the reopened subterranean Campbell Arcade, which connects to all platforms in Flinders Street Station. Check out the artworks in the Dirty Dozen exhibition windows and find something unique or second hand as tiny shops return to this bustling underpass.