15 Top Full-Day Tours In Melbourne (With Reviews & Prices)

Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s cultural capital isn’t just about its cafés, street art, and eclectic neighborhoods. It’s also a fantastic base for full-day tours that showcase some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and experiences. Whether you want to marvel at the Twelve Apostles, spot koalas in the wild, explore lush rainforests, or indulge in Yarra Valley wines, Melbourne offers options tailored to every taste. We particularly love the Great Ocean Road sunset eco tour for its breathtaking scenery and sunset finale, and the Penguin Parade tour for a charming wildlife encounter. These tours don’t just cover sights—they create memories, with guides who bring their region’s stories to life.

Quick Overview

Our list features a mix of coastal drives, wildlife safaris, wineries, and city explorations. Some tours focus on nature, like the Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Eco Tour, which combines spectacular scenery with wildlife encounters and a sunset at the Twelve Apostles. Others blend city highlights with nearby attractions, such as the Full-Day Melbourne City Sightseeing with Penguin Parade. For lovers of food and drink, tours like the Yarra Valley Wine Experience and the Yarra Valley Grazing Tour offer immersive tastings and scenic vineyard visits. Below, we detail each tour with what makes it special.

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

This tour offers a full-day journey along Victoria’s stunning coastline, ending with a sunset view at the Twelve Apostles. Starting with hotel pickup, your guide shares stories about the region’s wildlife and history. You’ll see koalas in their natural habitat at Kennett River and explore the Shipwreck Coast, including Loch Ard Gorge. The highlight is arriving at the Twelve Apostles right in time for sunset, a truly magical sight.

What makes this tour stand out is its curated “Journey through Time”, blending scenery with storytelling. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see koalas in the wild. The sunset at the Apostles is often described as unforgettable. With around 11 to 14 hours of adventure, the tour offers excellent value at just over $114 per person, especially considering the included hotel pickups and the personalized experience.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for lovers of coastal scenery, wildlife, and sunset photography, with a well-paced itinerary and charismatic guides.

2. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip

For around 14 hours of exploring Victoria’s most iconic coastal route, this guided trip is a no-fuss way to see the highlights. It covers koala spotting at Kennett River, visits the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, and stops at Apollo Bay for lunch (own expense). The guide shares engaging stories about the region’s geology and wildlife, making the ride educational as well as scenic.

What sets this tour apart is its comfortable, air-conditioned coach and a detailed itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation. Travelers rave about the expert guide’s storytelling and the chance to experience rainforests and waterfalls along the way. It’s an excellent choice if you want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of driving.

Bottom Line: Suited for those who want a thorough, guided experience of the Great Ocean Road’s top sights in a single day.

3. Full-day Melbourne City Sightseeing with Penguin Parade

This tour combines urban Melbourne highlights with the unforgettable experience of watching little penguins at Phillip Island. After a walking tour of Hosier Lane and the State Library, the group heads to Phillip Island to witness the Penguin Parade at sunset. The guide takes care of logistics, so you just relax and enjoy the scenery.

What makes this tour special is the chance to contrast city culture with wildlife and natural beauty. With 14 hours of activity and a focus on group camaraderie, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of Melbourne’s downtown and iconic wildlife. The penguins are the main draw, with reviews highlighting the warm, friendly guide and the spectacular sight of penguins waddling home at sunset.

Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors seeking a full-day mix of city exploration and wildlife, with easy logistics and engaging local stories.

4. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Tour

This tour is similar to the first, but with a focus on avoiding crowds and experiencing the Great Ocean Road at sunset. You’ll explore the coast, take in Anglesea, see the Memorial Arch, and stop at Kennett River for wildlife viewing. The journey culminates at the Twelve Apostles at sunset, a different perspective that’s often described as breathtaking.

What makes this tour unique is its evening timing, allowing travelers to enjoy peaceful views and fewer travelers. The reviews note the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery. The tour lasts about 13 hours and is ideal for those wanting to escape daytime crowds and capture stunning sunset photos.

Bottom Line: If you prefer an evening experience with fewer people and a chance to see the coast in a different light, this tour delivers.

5. Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

This 10-hour tour offers a wildlife-focused day, including visits to Koala Park and the Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks. The highlight is the Penguin Parade, with plenty of time to watch the tiny penguins waddle ashore at sunset. You also get a chance to explore Woolamai Beach and see natural volcanic formations at the Nobbies.

The tour stands out for its up-close wildlife encounters and the relaxed pace. Reviewers love the informative commentary and the chance to see rare Australian animals in their habitat. The cost-effective nature of the tour makes it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts on a budget.

Bottom Line: Best suited for families or wildlife fans wanting to combine nature walks with penguin viewing, all in a manageable 10-hour day.

6. Melbourne: Full-Day Yarra Valley Wine Experience with Lunch

This 8-hour tour takes you to four premium wineries in the Yarra Valley, with tastings and a delicious lunch at a vineyard restaurant. The tour includes visits to Greenstone Vineyards, Balgownie Estate, Yering Farm, and Gisborne Peak, with plenty of opportunities to chat with winemakers and learn about viticulture.

What makes this tour appealing is the intimate setting and well-curated wine tastings, perfect for wine lovers and foodies. The reviews note the friendly guides and the high-quality wines and lunch. It offers excellent value at a reasonable price, especially for those wanting to indulge without the stress of driving.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wine aficionados looking for a relaxed day of tastings, scenic vineyard views, and good company.

7. Yarra Valley Full Day Grazing Tour: Gin, Wine, Pizza, Cheese

This 8-hour tour is a delicious journey through Yarra Valley’s boutique producers. You’ll visit Stag Lane Farm Distillery, Rochford Wines, and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, with tastings of gin, cheese, wine, and chocolate. It’s designed for foodies who want to sample a variety of local flavors.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on small group size (max 24), personalized attention, and all tastings included. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it a fun, relaxed experience. Ideal for those wanting to sample multiple local products in one day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want to explore the culinary side of Yarra Valley with a focus on local producers.

8. Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade

This 10-hour tour offers a wildlife-rich day, including a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary to see wombats, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils. You’ll also explore Woolamai Beach and Nobbies, where you can watch fur seals and volcanic formations. The evening culminates with the Penguin Parade at sunset.

The tour is praised for entertaining guides and a good balance of wildlife, scenery, and relaxing moments. Many reviewers mention how well-organized the day is and how the penguin parade is a must-see. It’s excellent for families or anyone wanting a full wildlife experience.

Bottom Line: Great for animal lovers seeking a comprehensive wildlife day with the iconic penguins at sunset.

9. Yarra Valley Full Day Gourmet Food, Wine & Gin Adventure

This 8-hour tour is a foodie’s dream, visiting Yarra Farm, St. Huberts, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, and Yarra Valley Dairy. The focus is on tastings of wine, cheese, chocolate, and spirits, with most tastings included and a lunch at Rochford Wines.

What makes this tour stand out is its all-inclusive approach and small-group atmosphere. The reviews mention the enthusiastic guide and how the tour is perfect for sampling local flavors without the hassle of organizing tastings yourself. It offers excellent value for those wanting a culinary deep dive.

Bottom Line: Best suited for food and drink enthusiasts who want a fun, relaxed, and flavorful day.

10. Full-Day Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Tour

This tour provides an accessible, all-in-one experience of the Great Ocean Road, with live commentary and stops at Anglesea, Memorial Arch, and the Twelve Apostles. The day includes rainforest walks in Melba Gully and wildlife viewing opportunities.

What makes it a top choice is its careful pacing and the combination of rainforest and coast. It’s highly rated for safety and local knowledge. Reviewers highlight how well-organized and personalized the trip feels, especially with customized routes due to recent natural events.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive tour with a mix of scenic landscapes and wildlife, all in a day.

11. Full-Day Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Sunset Tour from Melbourne

This popular sunset tour departs later to let you enjoy stunning views of the coast at golden hour. It includes stops at Anglesea, Kennett River (koalas), Loch Ard Gorge, and the Twelve Apostles at sunset.

What makes this tour special is the timing—the sunset at the Apostles is a spectacle. Passengers love how the guide shares engaging stories and how the less crowded late-afternoon experience makes for fantastic photos. It’s a longer day, but the visual payoff is worth it.

Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset lovers and those wanting fewer crowds at a major sight.

12. Half-Day or Full-Day Tour with Private Guide from Melbourne

This customizable, private tour is ideal if you want to tailor your experience. You can choose a 4- or 8-hour itinerary, visiting Healesville Sanctuary, the Great Ocean Road, or local spots like St. Kilda Beach.

What makes this service appealing is the personalized attention and flexible itinerary, suited for travelers with specific interests or mobility considerations. Reviewers mention how guides adapt to your needs and make the day enjoyable.

Bottom Line: Best for small groups or families wanting a bespoke experience with flexibility and privacy.

13. Full Day Tour of Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles from Melbourne

This guided day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the coast, with four pickup points and stops at Anglesea, Memorial Arch, Kennet River, and Loch Ard Gorge. It includes a scenic drive, wildlife viewing, and breaks for coffee or snacks (own expense).

The well-organized itinerary ensures you see the major sights without feeling rushed. Reviewers praise the local guides’ knowledge and the beautiful scenery. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a full day with minimal planning.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers wanting a full, guided experience of the iconic coast.

14. Mornington Peninsula Gourmet Full-Day Private Tour

This private tour explores the Mornington Peninsula, famous for its coastal walks, wineries, and cheesemakers. It includes feeding koalas and enjoying private picnics among vines. The tour is flexible, with customizable stops based on your interests.

What makes it stand out is the luxury, personalized approach, perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, exclusive experience. Reviewers appreciate the attention to detail and the ability to tailor the day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a luxury, private experience focused on gourmet food and scenic beauty.

15. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Full-Day Tour

This 12.5-hour tour offers a classic, comprehensive exploration of the coast with multiple stops including Anglesea, Cape Patton, Warrnambool, and the Twelve Apostles. It’s popular for its detailed itinerary and flexible pickup points.

Reviewers appreciate the expert commentary and the balance of scenic drives, wildlife, and free time. It’s suited for travelers wanting a full, immersive day with a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a complete overview of the Great Ocean Road’s highlights in one day.

How to Choose the Perfect Full-Day Tour in Melbourne

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and stamina. If you want a scenic coastal drive with sunset views, the Great Ocean Road Sunset Eco Tour is hard to beat. For wildlife enthusiasts, tours visiting Koala parks and penguin colonies like the Penguin Parade or Phillip Island are ideal.

If you’re a food and wine lover, consider the Yarra Valley wine tour or the grazing tour. For a personalized experience, the private guided tour allows customization.

Remember to check weather conditions, especially for coastal or wildlife tours, and book early, especially in peak seasons. Consider how much walking or physical activity suits your fitness level, as some tours include rainforest walks or wildlife encounters.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne offers a wide range of full-day tours that showcase its natural beauty and vibrant culture. For breathtaking coastal scenery, the Great Ocean Road Sunset Eco Tour and its sunset variant provide unforgettable views. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the Penguin Parade and Phillip Island. Foodies and wine enthusiasts should not miss the Yarra Valley wine experience, which pairs tastings with scenic vineyard vistas.

No matter your interests, these tours make it easy to explore beyond Melbourne’s city limits while enjoying comfortable transport and expert insights. Book early to secure your spot—you’ll want your full day in Melbourne to be filled with spectacular sights and memorable moments.