When people turn their thoughts to shopping in Australia, most people think of Melbourne, as this vibrant and modern city offers a wide range of shopping options to suit all tastes.
While visitors who like to keep their cool in modern shopping malls will find offerings in all areas of the city, there are also plenty of markets to be found here, which sell just about everything from locally grown fresh produce to arts and crafts.
Queen Victoria Market Often referred to locally as the Queen Vic Markets, the Queen Victoria Market is one of Melbourne's major landmarks.
This impressive open air market covers an area of 17 acres and is named after former monarch Queen Victoria.
This is Melbourne's only remaining 19th century market, and the advantage of shopping here is that a wide range of different types of goods can be found all within one area.
St Kilda Situated just seven kilometres from Melbourne's CBD, the St Kilda district is a beautiful bayside area that features a long sandy beach as well as an excellent range of restaurants and other amenities.
There are also plenty of shops to be found here, especially along Fitzroy Street, while the nearby Acland Street is known for its abundance of book, independent music and second-hand shops.
Block Arcade The large and lovely Block Arcade is the perfect place for those who are interested in history and culture to shop.
This impressive shopping arcade was built back in 1891 after being designed by architect David C.
Askew.
The building was based on the commanding Galleria Vittoria in Milan, and the six-story building has been capturing the hearts and minds of shoppers for decades with its beautiful mosaic flooring, glass canopy and carved stone finishings.
Bridge Road Conveniently located near a number of cheap Melbourne hotels, Bridge Road is a great place to shop for handmade clothing.
While lovers of high fashion will find outlets of boutiques stocked with items from big names such as Gorman, Esprit and Country Road, tailors also offer to make suits and other clothing to measure.
Lovers of shoes will also be in their element here, as footwear by names such as Alberto Piazza, Batsanis and Aquila are easy to come by.
Myer Melbourne Christmas is the best time to visit the Nyer Melbourne shopping venue, which was established in 1900 by a Russian immigrant.
The Myer Christmas Windows have been drawing large crowds of people to this section of the city since they were first introduced back in 1956, and each year people of all ages wait in wonder to see what scenes will be displayed.
Toorak Road Surrounded by the lush leafy suburbs of the districts of Armadale, South Yarra and Malvern, Toorak is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and really get down to some serious shopping.
Also known as the Toorak Village, this area of the city consists of a unique island that is packed full of quality fashion boutiques as well as book and homeware shops.
Airport shopping An excellent range of shopping outlets can be found in Melbourne's large international airport, and this is the perfect place to pick up gifts and souvenirs to take back home.
Everything from designer perfume and jewellery to handicrafts can be found here, as well as reading material and other travel essentials.