Things to do in Melbourne, Victoria: The Best Tours

Take a walk through downtown Melbourne and learn of an era in which there was much more on offer at the local confectionery store than just lollies and soft drinks. Explore Melbourne’s underworld c.1870’s to 1930’s, an era in which Melbourne’s downtown slum district, ‘Little Lon’, was mostly run by women. Learn about the battle for supremacy, madams who stood their ground against well-known gangsters such as Squizzy Taylor, and an all-female crime syndicate known as ‘The Combine’. Stop outside buildings which were once brothels and sly grog shops (speak easies), and hear the stories of what occurred within their walls and on the streets and laneways around them. Shootings, bombings, bashings, brothels, robberies, opium, cocaine and sly grog (speak easies). The tour is designed and delivered by writer and historian, Michael Shelford.

Inclusions: A tour booklet featuring photos of the characters discussed along the way.

Exclusions: Please bring along your own food and drinks.

Get acquainted with bohemian beers, bespoke microbrews and salacious local eats on this Melbourne craft beer tour.

Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide, Craft beer tastings at 3 venues, A portion of amazing local food

Exclusions: Additional food and drinks, Tips/gratuities for your guide, a Myki with enough credit to catch the train or tram out to the venue for the evening

Discover Melbourne's multicultural heritage with your taste buds on a walking food tour that takes you where the city’s real culture thrives. Ride the tram alongside locals and visit markets to see how residents shop, sampling delectable bites along the way. Learn how Melbourne evolved into a foodie destination as you chat with vendors and cooks at a range of ethnic eateries, and cap it off with a drink at a cozy pub or delicious Gelato depending on the group wishes on the day.

Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide, A selection of International and local food tastings, Coffee and/or Tea, Interaction with different vendors at the market

Exclusions: A tram or train fare may be required depending on the market, additional food and drinks

Hike rugged coastlines, marvel at wild oceans, and unwind in magical hot springs on the Mornington Peninsula. Time to hit the highway with our small group (max 8 guests) and make our way to the idyllic Mornington Peninsula. Our first stop is the summit of Arthur’s Seat where we’ll share panoramic ocean views and a bite of morning tea. This is just a taste of things to come. We move onto Bushrangers Bay for a 8km return hike featuring unreal coastal scenery, rocky bays, wild oceans and one picturesque lighthouse. Spot local kangaroos and listen to the songs of native birds as we wander along the undulating path. After we return from our first hike, we will head to Cape Schanck for a smaller walk along the boardwalk before a delicious cafe lunch at The Hidden Kitchen. Our final stop, Peninsula Hot Springs which is an award-winning natural hot springs and outdoor day spa destination. It’s the perfect way to end a great date with nature! (Bathing time 2h)

Inclusions: One guided 8km hike to Bushrangers Bay, Plenty of chances to see wildlife including kangaroos and native birds, Organic Fruit & Healthy Snacks, Freshly Brewed Coffee Supreme & Organic Tea, Entrance to Peninsula Hot Springs (Bath house) & Mornington Peninsula National Park, Air-conditioned vehicle, Rain Ponchos, First Aid & Towels, Friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, Unforgettable memories, Towels are included

Exclusions: Hotel pickup/dropoff, Lunch

The future of entertainment is now here with Virtual Room – the world’s best team-based VR experience located in central Melbourne. Blending the escape room concept with a full 3D cinematic experience to deliver a unique, immersive and mind-blowing time travel adventure lasting ~40-50 minutes. Your mission is to help save the world and you and your team of 2-4 players will travel back into historical periods of time such as ancient Egypt and the moon landing to solve the puzzles and challenges. Each player has their own dedicated room, specially designed and equipped with the latest VR gear. You will get to move around, search for items, manipulate objects and collaborate with your fellow team members. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before - immersion, freedom, adrenaline, the ultimate thrill! Fun for all ages (no gore or horror) - friends, families (ages 10+), birthday parties, kids’ parties, hens/bucks nights, school groups and corporate team building.

Inclusions: 40-50 minute VR experience, In game photo shoot, Post game photo shoot with props

Exclusions:

Located an hour from Melbourne and known internationally as a quality producer of chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wines, the Yarra Valley enjoys the highest profile of any Victorian wine region. With this small group tour, take the scenic route from Melbourne that travels through bushland, vineyards and farmland. The 5 cellar doors that are visited are a mix of small, medium and large producers who provide a great overview of what the Valley does best. Enhancing the day is an excellent a la carte lunch at Yering Station as well as a wonderful pairing of wine and cheese at De Bortoli.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Lunch, Wine tasting, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities

Hop on this alternative Yarra Valley wine tour for an upbeat experience of the region. Our awesome local guides will take you to visit 3 eclectic wineries for tastings that offers a broad range of styles and good vibes. You'll enjoy a main course lunch with a glass at a beautiful winery. We'll stop over at a local famous Chocolate Factory for some tempting sweets. And finish the day (usually the last stop) with a thirst quenching beer at regional brewery. This is an all inclusive day trip with the tour price covering all fees for wine tastings, lunch, beer, and transfers from and back to the Melbourne.

Inclusions: All wine tasting fees at three selected boutique wineries, A seasonal main course lunch with glass of wine at a winery (can cater to most dietary requests), Visit either Coldstream Brewery or Watts River Brewery to enjoy a glass , Visit Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice-creamery

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off

Experience stunning views of Melbourne's skyline on this 2.5-hour kayak paddle along the Yarra River at sunset, led by an experienced, friendly guide. Explore Victoria Harbour and enjoy unique on the water dining (fish n chips), then paddle right into the heart of Melbourne along Southbank just in time for the dramatic fire-ball display at Crown Casino. As the city lights come on soak up the atmosphere of downtown Melbourne before finishing the tour next to Princes Bridge in the center of the city.

Inclusions: Use of equipment (All paddling accessories, waterproof bags), Fish n Chips, Bottle of water, Experienced guide, Dinner, Bottled water

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off

Join our tour guides for a walk through Australia’s culture capital and learn what makes this city great and so much more. When you arrive, you'll explore Melbourne with a local who can share the history of the city as well as point out things to do after your walking tour is done. Depot Adventures tour guides want to show you the real Melbourne – the city we know and love. Your tour will stop for a coffee and conclude near the Old Melbourne Gaol, where you learn about Australia’s most infamous bush ranger. After your tour is finished, your guide will brings the group to a classic Australian pub where you can experience traditional Aussie food.

Inclusions: Professional guide, Commentary, maps, handouts, 1 coffee & 1 beer included

Exclusions: Gratuities

See the the iconic sights of Melbourne while discovering it's vast history as you join this small-group bike tour. Enjoy a 4.5 hour relaxing bike tour all while socializing and getting some exercise with your entertaining and knowledgeable local guide.

Inclusions: Use of bicycle, Use of helmet

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Hotel pickup and drop-off