The ultimate Sydney hidden gem: This secret slice of Europe is hiding down a tiny laneway – and you won’t believe what it used to look like
Those longing for a Mediterranean holiday will love a hidden street in Sydney that seems straight out of Italy or Spain.
Located on the outskirts of Rose Bay in Sydney’s east, Collins Lane is a delightful burst of colour.
The dreamy alley is lined with an array of shops and cafes, each decorated with a different bold hue or quirky street art.
Visitors will never guess that this vibrant hidden gem was once an inconspicuous gray thoroughfare leading to nearby Rose Bay Beach.
However, Woollahra Council commissioned a much-needed revamp and opened the new and improved Collins Lane in March 2023.
Scroll down for video
Located on the outskirts of Rose Bay in Sydney’s east, Collins Lane is a delightful burst of colour
Visitors will never guess that the vibrant hidden gem was once an inconspicuous gray passageway to nearby Rose Bay Beach
The look was inspired by Venice’s Burano Island and came to life with the help of artist Alice McAuliffe who created a ‘Concrete Carpet’ along the length of the avenue.
There are a series of businesses and cafes on either side of the alley. There are home furnishing stores, beauticians, eateries and hairdressers to visit.
Café Collins Lane with its decorated blue and orange door is a popular brunch spot, while Moshiko was a thriving coffee shop long before the small street’s renovation.
Another popular spot is the Made On Earth homewares shop at the street entrance, selling stylish trinkets, gifts and accessories.
The look was inspired by Venice’s Burano Island and came to life with the help of artist Alice McAuliffe who created a ‘Concrete Carpet’ along the length of the avenue
There are a series of businesses and cafes on either side of the alley. There are home furnishing stores, beauticians, eateries and hairdressers to visit
Instagrammer Ally said the ‘hidden gem’ is just minutes from Sydney city and is often missed despite being right in the hustle and bustle of the eastern suburbs
Sydneysiders rave about their visits, with blogger Maggie calling the spectacular spot a ‘colourful oasis’.
‘I’ve never been to Europe, but this is how I imagine it!’ she said in an online video warning people to arrive before 3 p.m., when all shops and restaurants are open.
‘How have I been in Sydney all my life and never seen this! I’ll have to check it out!’ said one viewer.
“This is so cute, how have we not seen this before?” asked a second.
‘Omg, this really looks like Greece!’ a third said while a fourth added: ‘I literally thought this was Italy.’
Instagrammer Ally said the ‘hidden gem’ is just minutes away from Sydney city and is often missed despite being right in the hustle and bustle of the eastern suburbs.