10 Must-Try Tours & Experiences In Melbourne

Melbourne stands out as a city that offers a rich mix of landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant neighborhoods — perfect for exploring through guided tours and unique experiences. Whether you’re eager to see the iconic Great Ocean Road, sample fine wines in the Yarra Valley, or uncover Melbourne’s hidden laneway bars, this city has something for every interest. We particularly love tours like the Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles & Wildlife for its stunning scenery and wildlife encounters, and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade for its unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

Melbourne’s diversity in experiences means you can enjoy a full-day scenic drive, a small-group eco adventure, or an insider’s city bike tour, all with expert guides and authentic local insights. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the best tours and what makes each one special.

1. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour

This full-day tour takes you along one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines, with highlights like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Led by experienced Australian guides, it’s perfect for travelers eager to combine scenic beauty with wildlife spotting. You’ll see koalas and parrots in their natural habitat and take a guided rainforest walk to see some of the tallest trees in the world. With a 4.7/5 rating, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular scenery. The tour’s highlights include walks through rainforests, visits to coastal landmarks, and time at Loch Ard Gorge, where the scenery is as dramatic as the history is poignant. This tour suits outdoor lovers and those wanting a comprehensive coastal experience in one day.

Bottom Line: If you want a classic, well-reviewed trip that combines scenery, wildlife, and history, this tour delivers with stunning views and personal insights from guides.

2. Great Ocean Road Tour w/ Deluxe Minibus & Top-Rated Guide

Spending around 13 hours, this tour offers a relaxed small-group experience with award-winning local guides. It’s a leisurely way to explore the coast, with multilingual audio commentary in 16 languages and stops at key spots like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and ancient rainforests. The itinerary includes scenic viewpoints, wildlife viewing at Kennett River, and a delightful stop for lunch in Apollo Bay. Guests love the personal touch from passionate guides and the comfortable minibus that makes the long day easier. The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate, less rushed experience with plenty of storytelling and photo stops.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable, and engaging day trip with small-group intimacy and cultural insights.

3. Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Eco Tour from Melbourne

Rated a perfect 5.0 from over 1,000 reviews, this tour offers a full-day exploration of the coast with an unforgettable sunset at the Twelve Apostles. The journey is led by a knowledgeable guide sharing stories about Victoria’s wildlife and history. You’ll see koalas in the wild, walk through rainforests, and enjoy scenic stops along the Shipwreck Coast. The highlight is arriving at the Twelve Apostles just in time for sunset, when the light is at its most dramatic. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a sunset experience combined with wildlife viewing and scenic beauty.

Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you’re keen on timing your visit to catch the sunset and are interested in detailed commentary and wildlife encounters.

4. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Boutique Tour in Reverse

With a maximum of 11 travelers, this boutique tour offers a more personalized and crowd-avoiding experience. It explores the familiar sights like the 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, and Loch Ard Gorge but in reverse, often beating the crowds. The small group ensures a more relaxed and flexible day, with stops for wildlife viewing—including koalas and kangaroos—and rainforest walks. Guides focus on sustainable practices and local stories, adding depth to your experience. The tour covers all the classic highlights but in a quieter, more intimate setting.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a high-quality, eco-conscious tour with a small group and a different perspective on the classic coast.

5. Phillip Island Penguins & Wildlife Day Tour from Melbourne

For about 12 hours, this full-day tour combines wildlife encounters with the famous Penguin Parade. You’ll visit Moonlit Sanctuary to meet koalas, kangaroos, and Tasmanian Devils, then explore Phillip Island’s rugged coastline and the Nobbies Boardwalk for fur seals. The highlight is witnessing the Penguin Parade at dusk, where the tiny penguins waddle ashore to their burrows. The tour has a 5.0 rating, with visitors praising the enthusiastic guides and the chance to see native wildlife up close. It’s best for families or anyone wanting a day immersed in Aussie animals and coastal scenery.

Bottom Line: If wildlife and the penguin parade are your priorities, this full-day tour offers a memorable experience with expert guides.

6. Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Whisky and Chocolate Tour

This 8-hour tour offers a delicious day in Victoria’s famous wine region. Tasting at five venues, from Yarra Valley wineries to boutique distilleries, you sample award-winning wines, gins, whiskies, and chocolates. The itinerary includes visits to Soumah, St Huberts, and Yarrawood, with a focus on local craftsmanship and scenic vineyard views. Guests rave about the flavors and the chance to contribute to the day’s plan by sharing their preferences. Perfect for foodies and wine lovers, the tour balances tastings with relaxed stops, optional lunch, and beautiful countryside views.

Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full day savoring local drinks and food, with a flexible, intimate experience.

7. Great Ocean Road Tour Reverse – SML GRP-DLUX Mini Bus Hotel Pickup

Rated 5.0, this tour offers a luxurious small-group experience exploring the coast in reverse order. Starting with the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, it includes wildlife spotting, rainforest walks, and scenic stops like the Razorback. The small size limits to 13 travelers, adding comfort and flexibility, with optional helicopter rides at the 12 Apostles (extra cost). Pickup from any Melbourne hotel simplifies logistics. The guide’s enthusiasm and the itinerary’s flexibility make this a top pick for travelers wanting a premium experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and a less crowded route, with optional helicopter upgrades.

8. Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

This 13-hour eco tour takes you into Grampians National Park, focusing on wildlife, scenic overlooks, and nature walks. Led by a small group, you’ll see Reed and Boroka Lookouts, MacKenzie Falls, and historic sites like the Eureka Stockade Memorial. The guided walk in Wonderland Loop includes some rock hopping and steep tracks, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The guide’s local expertise makes it a rich, educational day, and the small group ensures personalized attention. It suits active travelers who want a deep dive into nature.

Bottom Line: Best for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a mix of scenic vistas, wildlife, and moderate hikes in a small-group setting.

9. Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour

This 4.5-hour bike tour offers an active way to explore Melbourne’s city sights. You’ll ride through laneways filled with street art, heritage arcades, and along the Yarra River. The tour includes stops at landmarks like the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Federation Square, and hidden alleyways. With limited to eight participants, it offers a tailored experience. Many reviewers highlight the guide’s local knowledge and the chance to see parts of the city most visitors miss, especially the vibrant street art and little-known neighborhoods.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer cycling over walking and want an engaging, insider look at Melbourne’s urban culture.

10. The Best of Melbourne Bike Tour

Rated 5.0/5, this tour combines sightseeing and active exploration over 4.5 hours. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to cover more ground than a walking tour. The route includes Southbank, the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Fitzroy Gardens. Bike and helmet are included, and the tour’s mid-morning start allows time for lunch afterward. The small group and flexible pace make it a comfortable yet energetic way to get to know Melbourne.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers eager to see both iconic and local spots in a manageable, fun ride.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Melbourne

When picking your experience, consider your budget, fitness level, and specific interests. For scenic coastal drives and wildlife, tours like the Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles & Wildlife or Phillip Island Penguin Parade stand out. If you enjoy wine and food, the Yarra Valley wine tour offers a relaxed, flavorful day, while city cycling tours reveal Melbourne’s hidden lanes and vibrant culture. For those seeking exclusivity, small-group boutique options like the Great Ocean Road Boutique Tour or Luxury Reverse Tour provide a quieter, more personalized experience.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours with limited spots or special add-ons like helicopter rides. Be sure to align your tour choice with your physical comfort and how much time you want to dedicate to exploring.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s diverse range of tours makes it easy to tailor your trip to your interests, whether you crave scenic drives, wildlife encounters, or cultural explorations. For breathtaking scenery and wildlife, the Great Ocean Road Tours, especially those with small-group or boutique options, deliver a memorable day. If food and wine are your thing, the Yarra Valley experiences offer a delightful taste of Victoria’s finest.

Active travelers will appreciate Melbourne’s city bike tours, which combine exercise with local storytelling. For wildlife lovers, Phillip Island’s penguins and koalas are hard to beat. No matter your interests, booking your preferred experience ahead of time will ensure you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.