Ultimate Melbourne Walking Tour: History, Laneways & Culture

Melbourne, AU
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1456 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Complimentary alcoholic beverage (house beer, wine, or cider) or soft drink
  • inclusion
    Commentary and stories not found in guidebooks
  • inclusion
    Access to all outdoor attractions and viewpoints
  • inclusion
    Free Melbourne map and guided recommendations
  • inclusion
    Professional local English-speaking guide
  • inclusion
    Small group tour (maximum 12 travelers)
  • inclusion
    Complimentary Melbourne coffee (flat white, long black, or hot chocolate)

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Starting Point is Gordon Reserve (74-108 Spring St East Melbourne) Gordon Reserve is the small park opposite the Hotel Windsor. Go to the Windsor Hotel. Cross the street to the park with the fountain. Look for your guide with a blue umbrella.

Meeting point

74-108 Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002 , Australia

End point

What to expect

1

The Hotel Windsor

Historic luxury hotel (1883) and Melbourne landmark - our tour begins at Gordon Reserve directly across the street

Duration 5 minutes
2
Parliament House of Victoria

Distant views of the seat of Victorian state government with impressive colonial architecture

3
Old Treasury Building

See the beautiful Gold Rush architecture that made Melbourne the world's richest city

Duration 5 minutes
4

Collins Street

Melbourne's premium shopping and financial district with historic buildings

Duration 2 minutes
5
Melbourne Laneways

Discover Melbourne's famous street art scene including Duckboard Place and AC/DC Lane - iconic laneways showcasing ever-changing graffiti and murals by local and international artists.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Hosier Lane

Depending on the day, our route may also include Hosier Lane, Melbourne's most famous street art destination

7
Fed Square

Federation Square: Melbourne's main cultural square and iconic modern architecture

Duration 10 minutes
8

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Distant views of the world's largest cricket stadium while we discuss this temple of Australian sport and the surrounding sporting precinct

Duration 2 minutes
9

Flinders Street Station

Historic railway station and Melbourne's most recognizable landmark

Duration 5 minutes
10

Degraves Street

Famous laneway café culture and European-style dining atmosphere. Experience Melbourne’s world-famous coffee culture with complimentary hot drink at a renowned local café.

Duration 20 minutes
11
The Block Arcade

Historic Victorian shopping arcade with mosaic floors and elegant architecture

Duration 5 minutes
12

0 Little Collins St

Hidden bars and boutique laneways in Melbourne's cultural heart.

Duration 5 minutes
13

ACDC Lane

Home to rock-and-roll murals

Duration 5 minutes
14
Royal Arcade

Australia's oldest arcade featuring the famous Gog and Magog mythical figures

Duration 5 minutes
15
Bourke Street Mall

Melbourne's primary shopping precinct and bustling pedestrian mall

Duration 3 minutes
16
Chinatown

The world's oldest continuously operating Chinatown with authentic restaurants

Duration 5 minutes
17
State Library Victoria

Magnificent heritage building and the state's premier research library - hear Ned Kelly's legendary story.

Duration 5 minutes
18

Yarra River

Walk alongside the beautiful riverbanks

Duration 5 minutes
19

Old Melbourne Gaol

Historic bluestone prison that operated from 1845-1929 3 minutes.

20

Captain Melville

Historic pub finish with complimentary beer, wine, cider or soft drink.

Duration 20 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Available only to individual travellers in small groups. If you're in a school group, business trip, or any other group larger than 10, please contact us to set up a private tour
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Depot Australia

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit Hosier Lane for street art
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    Try lunch at the nearby pub
  • icon
    Check out the State Library Victoria
  • icon
    Stroll along the Yarra River
  • icon
    Explore Chinatown's unique cuisine

More About this Experience

Introduction

Join our tour guides for a walk through Australia's culture capital and learn what makes this city great and so much more. The Complete Melbourne Walking Tour is designed to give you an immersive experience of Melbourne's vibrant culture, fascinating history, and iconic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Melbourne, providing you with valuable insights and hidden gems that only seasoned travelers would know.

What to expect?

During the 180-minute tour, you'll explore Melbourne's historic sites such as the Old Treasury Building, where you can admire its stunning gold rush architecture. Get captivated by the vibrant street art in Hosier Lane, known as Melbourne's most famous street art laneway. Marvel at the breathtaking city views from the Melbourne Skydeck, with discounted tickets available exclusively to tour participants. Discover Federation Square, Melbourne's main square, which serves as a hub of cultural events and activities. Take a moment to appreciate the iconic Flinders Street Station, one of the busiest train stations in the world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne's premier shopping street. Explore the historic Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, Australia's oldest shopping arcades. And don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the world's oldest continuously operating Chinatown. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories and trivia about each landmark, making your tour educational, engaging, and truly memorable.

Who is this for?

The Complete Melbourne Walking Tour is perfect for curious explorers who want to dive into the rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant street life of Melbourne. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers something for everyone. If you're interested in architecture, you'll be captivated by the gold rush era buildings and the unique blend of modern and Victorian designs. Art enthusiasts will revel in the vibrant street art of Hosier Lane. Shoppers will enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Bourke Street Mall and the chance to explore the charming shopping arcades. History buffs will be intrigued by the stories of Ned Kelly's execution site and the fascinating State Library Victoria. This tour welcomes individuals, couples, and even families who want to discover the hidden gems that make Melbourne truly special.

Why book this?

The Complete Melbourne Walking Tour is more than just a walk through the city; it's an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the soul of Melbourne. Led by passionate local guides, this tour takes you beyond the surface and unveils the city's secrets, ensuring you go home with a deeper understanding of its culture, history, and people. By exploring Melbourne on foot, you'll have the opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with locals, and discover hidden gems that are often overlooked. You'll leave with a sense of connection to the city and a wealth of knowledge that can only come from an experienced traveler. Plus, the tour conveniently concludes near the Old Melbourne Gaol, where you can delve into the history of Australia's most infamous bush ranger. To top it all off, your guide will take you to a classic Australian pub, offering you the chance to savor traditional Aussie food and immerse yourself in the local dining scene.

Good to know

During the tour, you will have the chance to take stunning photos of Melbourne's iconic landmarks, so remember to bring your camera or smartphone. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking for approximately 180 minutes, exploring various parts of the city. Don't forget to bring a water bottle and apply sunscreen, especially during the summer months. If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please inform your guide beforehand, so they can make suitable arrangements for your pub visit. Prepare to be enriched by the stories and knowledge shared by your guide, who will ensure that every step of the tour is engaging and enjoyable. Get ready to experience the essence of Melbourne in a way that is both entertaining and educational.

Reviews

Previous tour participants have praised the Complete Melbourne Walking Tour for its informative and engaging nature. Many have appreciated the in-depth knowledge of the guides and their ability to bring Melbourne's history to life. Travelers have described the tour as eye-opening, highlighting the hidden gems and lesser-known facts that made their experience truly unique. Participants have also expressed their admiration for the guides' enthusiasm, friendly demeanor, and helpful tips on exploring the city further. Whether it's your first time in Melbourne or you've visited before, this tour has received rave reviews for its ability to provide a fresh new perspective on the city, immersing visitors in its culture and enriching their travel experience.

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