Queen Victoria Building (QVB)
455 George St., Sydney, New South Wales
Built in Victorian Romanesque style in 1898, the sumptuously-decorated Queen Victoria Building is Sydney’s most impressive shopping destination: a stained-glass central dome looks down on balconied floors linked by grand staircases. Originally the site of the Sydney Markets, today the complex offers stores that range from stationers and tailors to coffee shops.
With more than 180 shops and boutiques, it's easy to spend a good few hours exploring the Queen Victoria Building (QVB). Even if you don’t want to shop, the shopping center offers a wealth of other treasures. Highlights include the Royal Clock, which heralds the hour with a miniature procession; a display replica of Queen Victoria swathed in jewels; a fully-functioning vintage elevator; and the Great Australian Clock, which features 33 painted scenes from Australian history.
- The Queen Victoria Building is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and shoppers.
- The higher the floor, the more expensive the store, so if you’re looking for bargains then stick to the basement areas.
- The QVB offers free Wi-Fi throughout the complex.
- The center is completely wheelchair and stroller accessible.
The Queen Victoria Building takes up an entire city block that’s bound by George, Market, York, and Druitt streets. Town Hall Station is adjacent to the QVB on George Street, just over Druitt Street, or you can walk here from Circular Quay in around 10 minutes—just head south down George St.
The Queen Victoria Building is open 9am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday. During the holiday season, when a colossal Christmas Tree sits beneath the central dome, the QVB is at its most magical.
The Queen Victoria Building offers visitors a wealth of dining opportunities, which range from Japanese yakitori (skewers) to wood-fired pizza. However, if you’re after something more traditional, opt for high tea at the Tea Room on the top floor of the complex. Beneath chandeliers, you’ll enjoy quintessentially English treats such as Earl Grey tea and a selection of finger sandwiches and sponges.
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