Melbourne truly is a city where every alleyway tells a story, and every corner bursts with colour and creativity. If you’ve ever wandered through its vibrant streets, you’ve likely noticed the stunning array of murals, graffiti, and stencils that make Melbourne street art a drawcard. This street art scene, with its roots deeply entwined with New York’s graffiti movement of the 1980s, has evolved into a dynamic, ever-changing canvas that captures the city’s rebellious spirit and artistic flair.
From the groundbreaking murals of the 1980s to the politically charged stencils of the 2000s, Melbourne’s street art has continually pushed boundaries and challenged perceptions. Iconic works like Keith Haring’s 1984 mural in Collingwood and the innovative “Style Machine” by Duel, Mars, and Pest have paved the way for a new generation of artists.
Today, each graffiti street Melbourne offers is alive with the works of local legends like Lushsux and international stars like Shepard Fairey. And you can see it all for free with just a little wander if you know where to look…
Street art is about reclaiming public spaces and making art accessible to everyone. This has made it one of the most vibrant and influential art movements of our time. Originating from the metropolises of the United States, especially New York City and Philadelphia, in the 1960s, it has grown into a global phenomenon. Street art includes everything from sprayed tags and intricate stencils to monumental painted murals that cover entire buildings. Known for its strong political and social messages, street art often reflects the artists’ perspectives on contemporary issues, making it an integral part of urban environments and transforming the look of many neighbourhoods and cities.
The movement has produced some of the most iconic and provocative works by artists like Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Banksy. These artists and many others have helped push street art into mainstream recognition, blurring the lines between vandalism and fine art. Despite its often illegal nature, street art is celebrated for its raw energy, creativity, and the way it brings art directly to the people, challenging the traditional boundaries of the art world.
We’ve created a free walking tour Melbourne residents and visitors can try to see the best Melbourne street art available.
Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s street art scene heart, is a must-see for any street art enthusiast. Located opposite Federation Square, this cobblestoned alley connects Flinders Lane with Flinders Street. Here, you’ll find a vibrant mix of murals, stencils, and paste-ups. Known as ‘practice’ alley, it’s a place where both seasoned artists and newcomers leave their mark.
Walking Directions: Start at Federation Square. Cross over Flinders Street and enter Hosier Lane, just past the Forum Theatre.
Running off Flinders Lane, AC/DC Lane is a tribute to the legendary Australian rockers – AC/DC. The street art here often features musical themes, showcasing real and imagined musicians. Formerly home to the iconic Cherry Bar, AC/DC Lane now hosts the Peruvian restaurant Pastuso.
Walking Directions: From Hosier Lane, head back to Flinders Lane and walk east until you reach AC/DC Lane on your right.
In 1984, renowned New York artist Keith Haring created an iconic mural in Collingwood. This piece remains one of Melbourne’s most beloved artworks and is one of only 31 surviving Haring murals worldwide. It’s a testament to Haring’s enduring legacy and vibrant style and a must-see.
Walking Directions: From AC/DC Lane, take Flinders Lane to the nearest tram stop on Swanston Street. Take Tram 86 towards Bundoora RMIT and alight at Johnston Street/Smith Street. Walk west on Johnston Street to Collingwood Arts Precinct.
A small laneway with a big history, Caledonian Lane was the birthplace of the St Jerome’s Laneway Festival. Though it has changed significantly, it still boasts an array of captivating street art. Located just off Lonsdale Street and hiding behind Swanston, it’s a spot that shouldn’t be missed.
Walking Directions: Return to the CBD via tram and head to Lonsdale Street. Caledonian Lane is situated between Swanston and Elizabeth Streets.
Gumbaynggirr artist and activist Aretha Brown has created a striking mural on Fitzroy’s Converse Store. This black-and-white piece uses special paint to remove and store carbon from the atmosphere. It highlights the importance of elders in First Nations communities while celebrating contemporary Indigenous culture.
Walking Directions: From Caledonian Lane, take Tram 86 from Swanston Street towards Bundoora RMIT and alight at Gertrude Street/Smith Street. Walk west on Gertrude Street to the Converse Store in Fitzroy.
Hidden in the heart of Chinatown, Croft Alley is filled with ever-changing street art. As you wander down this alley, you’ll find the Croft Institute, a beloved laneway bar. This spot is a perfect blend of art and nightlife.
Walking Directions: Head back to Swanston Street and walk south to Little Bourke Street. Turn east and enter Croft Alley from Little Bourke Street.
Curving from Flinders Lane back to AC/DC Lane, Duckboard Place is rich in history and art. Once a place for World War II troops to unwind, it’s now adorned with street art, gig posters, significant murals, and high-end restaurants like Lee Ho Fook.
Walking Directions: From Croft Alley, return to Flinders Lane and walk west. Duckboard Place is just past Exhibition Street, curving around to meet AC/DC Lane.
If you get a little snacky on your tour, you can grab some budget-friendly eats at the following spots:
Located in Carlton, Hi Chong Qing offers a taste of authentic Chongqing noodles with a Melbourne twist. Try the signature Chongqing noodles, with great vegetarian options, be sure to try the broth made from ten ingredients including Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and ginger.
Butchers Diner in Melbourne is a no-frills spot known for its affordable and delicious eats, like the $12 burger. Open 24/7, this diner also offers daily specials under $20 and a $6.50 cup of gelato to finish off your meal.
Vola Foods in Brunswick specialises in hearty West African cuisine served from a bright orange shipping container. Head chef Ashley Vola’s team serves up flavorful dishes like jollof rice, puff puff, and barbecued meats, offering a true taste of Cameroonian soul food.
Hidden in a basement off Little Collins Street, Dodee Paidang offers authentic Thai cuisine at budget-friendly prices. With dishes like pad thai or the classic green curry on rice, most items are under $20, making it a popular spot among Thai natives and a great choice for a delicious, affordable meal.
Melbourne Central is open from 10-am – 7pm every day, but stays open late to 9pm on Thursday and Friday.
Melbourne Central is a great spot for a bit of retail therapy in Melbourne. You can follow this up by checking out Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s street art mecca.
Keith Haring’s iconic mural in Collingwood is one of Melbourne’s most famous and one of only 31 Harring pieces that still exist in the world.
One of the best and most central places to stay in Melbourne are Punthill Little Bourke, Punthill Williamstown, Punthill Essendon, Punthill Flinders Lane, located at 267 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC. These edgy and stylish apartments are on the doorstep of Melbourne’s iconic laneways, boutique shops, speciality cafes and more.
