Discover Melbourne’s Rich Heritage at St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne
Have you ever entered a place and felt like you’d stepped into something truly special? That’s exactly what happened when I walked into St Paul’s Cathedral.
The towering arches seemed to stretch endlessly, while the intricate stained-glass windows cast vibrant patterns across the floor. The city’s bustling energy seemed to dissolve, leaving behind a serene and almost ethereal quiet that felt like a world of its own.
I’d walked past St Paul’s Cathedral so many times without stepping in—big mistake. It’s not a spot to rush through; it’s a place that deserves your attention and will leave you wanting to come back for more. Let’s explore why this Cathedral is unforgettable.
Where is St Paul’s Cathedral?
St Paul’s Cathedral is located at Flinders Street, Melbourne, directly opposite Federation Square and Flinders Street Station. It’s one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, easily recognizable by its towering spires and Gothic Revival architecture.
How to Get to St Paul’s Cathedral
Closest train station: The closest train station to St Paul’s Cathedral is Flinders Street Station, located just across the road. It’s a 2-minute walk via the pedestrian crossings at Flinders Street and Swanston Street.
What to Do and See in St Paul’s Cathedral
Step back in time with gothic grandeur
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Pricing: Free
The Gothic Revival design of St Paul’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture.
The soaring sandstone spires dominate Melbourne’s skyline, while the intricate carvings on the facade reflect painstaking attention to detail. The arched ceilings seem to reach for the heavens, creating a sense of grandeur and reverence.
The patterned floor tiles, laid in geometric precision, add a striking visual element beneath your feet.
Meanwhile, the choir stalls feature ornate woodwork, with delicate floral motifs and symbolic carvings that showcase exceptional craftsmanship.
You may also stare at the stained-glass windows of St Paul’s Cathedral, wherein each panel is bursting with color and meaning.
Attend a choral service or concert at the cathedral
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Pricing: Free
Operating Hours: Wed & Sun: 5 PM–6 PM
The renowned choir and majestic grand organ of St Paul’s Cathedral deliver an unforgettable auditory experience.
During evening choral services, the harmonies resonate through the soaring arches. They fill the space with a powerful yet serene sound.
Special concerts amplify this magic, with the organ’s deep and resonant tones complementing the angelic voices of the choir.
Take a piece of St. Paul’s at the Cathedral Gift Shop
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Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 10 AM–4 PM
- Sun: 12 PM–3 PM
The St Paul’s Cathedral gift shop is a haven of meaningful mementos. You’ll find beautifully handcrafted rosaries, intricately designed crosses, and books that delve into the cathedral’s rich history.
For something unique, look for locally made candles and postcards featuring stunning images of the stained-glass windows. Each item is carefully chosen to reflect the spirit and heritage of St Paul’s, making it easy to take a piece of this iconic landmark home with you.
Where to Eat and Drink near St Paul’s Cathedral
Time Out Fed Square
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Address: Federation Square, Flinders Street
Phone: +61 3 9671 3855
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Great wood-fired pizzas and refreshing cocktails
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 8 AM–11 PM
Time Out Fed Square serves up a menu that caters to every craving with fresh, flavorful dishes. Their wood-fired pizzas steal the spotlight, especially the prosciutto pizza topped with peppery rockets and shaved parmesan.
For breakfast fans, the smashed avocado on sourdough with poached eggs is a standout. It offers a simple yet perfectly balanced start to the day.
Lighter options like crispy calamari and golden arancini balls bring bold flavors to the table, making them ideal for snacking or sharing. If you’re after something heartier, the burgers and salads are just as satisfying.
MoVida
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Address: 1 Hosier Lane
Phone: +61 3 9663 3038
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Offers Spanish-inspired dishes like chargrilled octopus and jamón croquettes
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–12 AM
MoVida is a haven for those who crave bold, authentic Spanish flavors. The menu is a celebration of small plates, with each dish packed with personality and perfectly crafted for sharing.
The jamón croquettes are a must-try—crispy on the outside with a creamy, smoky center that melts in your mouth.
Seafood lovers will adore the chargrilled octopus. It’s tender and smoky, paired with paprika-spiced potatoes for an unforgettable bite.
And, of course, no visit to MoVida is complete without sampling their signature paella. It’s filled with perfectly cooked rice and a medley of fresh seafood.
Supernormal
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Address: 180 Flinders Lane
Phone: +61 3 9650 8688
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Great New England lobster roll, crispy pork bao, and signature duck bao
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 12 PM–12 AM
- Sat-Sun: 12 PM–11 PM
Supernormal is a culinary adventure through Asia. It blends flavors from Japan, China, and Korea into unforgettable dishes.
The menu is designed for sharing, starting with the iconic New England lobster roll—a buttery, flavor-packed bite that keeps people coming back. The pork bao is another must-try with its flavorful filling and perfectly steamed bun.
Seafood lovers will revel in the sashimi platter, featuring the freshest cuts of tuna, salmon, and kingfish. Meanwhile, the slow-cooked lamb shoulder that’s infused with soy and sesame is ideal for those craving something hearty.
Taxi Kitchen
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Address: Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square
Phone: +61 3 9654 8808
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Great crispy pork belly, kingfish sashimi, and roasted cauliflower
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 12 PM–12 AM
Taxi Kitchen takes contemporary Australian dining to new heights with its inventive menu and focus on fresh, local ingredients.
The crispy pork belly, served with a tangy apple and fennel salad, perfectly balances rich and refreshing flavors. Seafood fans will love the kingfish sashimi that’s delicately sliced and paired with a zesty yuzu dressing that elevates every bite.
Vegetarians are not left out, with the roasted cauliflower dish stealing the show—charred to perfection and complemented by miso and almonds.
The seasonal dessert options, such as their indulgent dark chocolate tart, provide a flawless finish to the meal.
Meso Bites
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Address: 6/260 Collins Street
Phone: +61 3 9650 0687
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Offers aromatic Ethiopian coffee ceremony
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 11 AM–9 PM
Meso Bites brings the rich and bold flavors of Ethiopia to Melbourne with dishes that showcase the heart and soul of Ethiopian cuisine.
Their signature injera, a soft and tangy sourdough flatbread, serves as the perfect base for vibrant stews. Among the favorites are the doro wat (a spiced chicken dish with a deep, earthy flavor) and misir wat (a hearty lentil stew packed with aromatic spices).
Vegetarians and vegans will love the shiro (a silky chickpea stew) and the sautéed greens, which are perfectly seasoned and bursting with freshness.
The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is an unmissable highlight. It offers rich, aromatic coffee prepared traditionally and served with an inviting sense of ritual.
Where to Shop near St Paul’s Cathedral
Melbourne Central
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Address: 211 La Trobe Street
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM–9 PM
Melbourne Central is a haven for fashion enthusiasts and shoppers alike. You can start at H&M for affordable and stylish basics, then head to Gorman for colorful and bold prints that scream Melbourne chic.
Beauty lovers can explore Mecca for premium makeup and skincare or check out Sephora for the latest beauty trends.
Tech enthusiasts aren’t left out either, with JB Hi-Fi offering gadgets and electronics galore.
Royal Arcade
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Address: 335 Bourke Street Mall
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 9 AM–6 PM
- Sun: 10 AM–5 PM
For those seeking one-of-a-kind shops, Royal Arcade delivers. You can indulge in luxury chocolates from Koko Black, then explore The Hat Project for handmade hats that are both stylish and functional.
Art lovers will appreciate The Cathedral Arcade Gallery, which features works by local artists. Meanwhile, Babushkas offers intricate Russian nesting dolls that make unforgettable souvenirs.
The Strand Melbourne
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Address: 250 Elizabeth Street
Pricing: $$-$$$
Operating Hours:
- Mon-Wed: 10 AM–6 PM
- Thu-Fri: 10 AM–7 PM
- Sat: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sun: 11 AM–5 PM
The Strand Melbourne is a hub for chic and contemporary shopping in the heart of the city.
Head over to Gorman for colorful, artistic prints or stop by M.J. Bale for timeless men’s suits and accessories. For beauty enthusiasts, Aesop offers skincare products that combine luxury and function.
Homeware fans will love Dinosaur Designs, which features one-of-a-kind resin creations. The Strand’s sleek layout and high-end brands make it a standout choice for those who appreciate refined retail experiences.
Where to Stay near St Paul’s Cathedral
Novotel Melbourne on Collins
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Address: 270 Collins Street
Phone: +61 3 9667 5800
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Novotel Melbourne on Collins strikes a perfect balance between comfort and style. It’s a standout choice for travelers who want a touch of elegance with all the conveniences of a city-center stay.
The rooms are spacious, with soft neutral tones, modern furnishings, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The beds are plush and inviting, ensuring a great night’s sleep after a day of exploring.
The on-site Lane Restaurant impresses with its diverse menu, serving everything from hearty breakfasts to modern Australian cuisine for dinner. The bar area is a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.
For those who want to unwind, the heated indoor pool and well-equipped fitness center are welcome additions.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Melbourne
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Address: 270 Flinders Street
Phone: +61 3 9654 6888
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street offers a sleek, modern stay with a warm, welcoming touch.
The rooms are thoughtfully designed with contemporary decor, cozy beds, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase views of Melbourne’s vibrant streets or the iconic Flinders Street Station.
Each stay begins with their signature warm chocolate chip cookie—a small but delightful gesture that sets the tone for the experience.
The on-site Platform 270 restaurant delivers Australian-inspired dishes, with standout options like the slow-cooked lamb shoulder and classic steak frites.
Flinders Backpackers
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Address: 35 Elizabeth Street
Phone: +61 3 9620 5100
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Flinders Backpackers is the ultimate budget-friendly spot for travelers looking to stay in the heart of Melbourne without sacrificing comfort or community.
The dorms and private rooms are clean and functional, offering comfortable beds and plenty of storage for your belongings. The free daily breakfast, complete with pancakes, is a highlight, giving you a great start to the day without spending a cent.
The communal spaces, like the large kitchen and cozy lounge, make it easy to meet fellow travelers, while the game room, equipped with pool tables and arcade games, adds a fun, social vibe.