Melbourne History Walk with Bar Stops & Local Stories
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the real stories that shaped Melbourne/Naarm as your local guide brings the city’s past to life through rich storytelling and three unique bar stops. Meet the characters, legends, and hidden history you won’t find in any guidebook while enjoying a drink of your choice at each venue. It’s the perfect mix of culture, conversation, and great bars—proving that history really is better with a drink in hand.
Available options
Afternoon in Melbourne: Booze and History Tour
What's included
Enjoy engaging storytelling from passionate local guides
Discover hidden bars, rooftop venues, and speakeasies tucked away in Melbourne’s laneways
Follow a flexible route tailored to group interests and the day’s best bar picks
Learn the real stories and characters behind Melbourne/Naarm’s history
Connect with fellow travelers in a relaxed, small‑group setting (max 12)
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin at the Sir William Clarke Memorial near the Old Treasury Building, then visit three unique bars chosen by your guide—ranging from craft beer spots to hidden speakeasies, depending on the day.
2
Your guide selects three great bars based on the weather, your drink preferences, and what’s open that day. One favorite stop is a hidden cocktail bar tucked behind a historic church.
3
Once a lively red‑light district filled with brothels, opium dens, and gambling rooms, this area reveals Melbourne’s wild past—told through stories that are far more fun than anything from school.
4
Stop 4
Each tour ends where your interests lead, and Chinatown is a favorite—packed with hidden laneway bars perfect for a final drink or two.
What's not included
Drinks, food
Tips/gratuities for your guide
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
28 reviews
5★
22
4★
3
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
53 reviews
5★
53
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring card or cash? While most stalls take cards, a few may require a minimum spend — consider carrying some cash.
Rain or shine? This tour runs in all weather — just bring layers and a sense of adventure.
Under 18? This tour is for adults only — guests must be 18 or older to join.
Is the tour accessible? Some areas may have limitations, but we’ll tailor the experience with early communication.
How far do we walk? The tour covers around 1.5 km (0.9 miles), but this may vary based on group interests.
Are drinks included? Drinks are not included, so you’re free to choose whatever you love at each stop — from craft cocktails to wine, beer, or alcohol‑free options. No fixed menu, no generic inclusions, just total flexibility to match your taste.
Is sustainability important to you? This tour is carbon neutral and run by a certified B Corp committed to responsible travel.
Meeting point
Sir William Clarke Memorial Statue, Corner of Spring St and Treasury Place (next to the Old Treasury Building)
Find the exact meeting point with what3words:
///bounty.gift.allow
Important notes
Dress Code
Melbourne is known to have four seasons in one day – please check the weather report and dress accordingly!
Additional Information
Most establishments accept bank cards, but there is occasionally a minimum spend. You may wish to bring cash if you want to avoid this.
Review us
How did we do? Your experience matters! Let us know by leaving a review.
About Melbourne
Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.
Top Attractions
Federation Square
Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).
Cultural
1-3 hours
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.
Nature
1-3 hours
Free
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.
Sports
1-3 hours (longer for events)
Free to enter (tours and events have fees)
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.
Scenic Drive
Full day or overnight trip
Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)
Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.
Market
1-3 hours
Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.
Art
1-3 hours
Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)
Lamb Rump
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.
Dinner
Contains meat
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.
Dessert
Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)
Flat White
A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.
Drink
Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges
Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley
Kayaking on the Yarra River
Spa and wellness retreats
Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending live performances and events
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
- • Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center
By train
Southern Cross Station
By bus
Southern Cross Coach Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fitzroy
St Kilda
Carlton
Southbank
Brunswick
Day trips
Yarra Valley
60 km from Melbourne • Full day
The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.
Mornington Peninsula
80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight
The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.
Phillip Island
140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight
Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.
Festivals
Australian Open • Mid-January
Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April
Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August
Pro tips
- Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
- Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
- Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
- Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
- Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
