9 Fantastic Tours In Ballarat

Ballarat is a city that invites exploration. Unlike many tourist spots, it offers a unique mix of history, culture, and adventure that keeps visitors engaged for hours. Whether you’re interested in learning about the gold rush, delving into paranormal tales, or sampling local wines, Ballarat has a tour to match your curiosity. We especially enjoyed Alice’s Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford, which combines storytelling, garden visits, and a good dose of local lore—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.

If you’re after something different from the usual, the city’s diverse offerings—such as ghost hunts, private wine tours, or historic city walks—will keep your itinerary full and your mind curious. With so many options, it’s worth considering what kind of experience suits your style, budget, and time constraints.

Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Ballarat

Our list features walking tours exploring historic and secret city corners, like the Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour, as well as immersive experiences such as ghost stories at J Ward, or luxurious private wine tastings in Daylesford. For a family-friendly day, there’s the Private Ballarat Sovereign Hill Gold Mine Tour, including gold panning and historic sites. Food lovers can indulge in the Ballarat Foodie and Gin Distillery Tour, and history buffs interested in the gold rush can’t miss the Sovereign Hill tour.

Below, we dive into each tour, highlighting what makes them worth considering.

1. Alices Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford 2.30pmFRI 11.30amSAT

Follow your guide around Daylesford’s charming streets, soaking up stories of the area’s history, women’s legends, and local gardens. This tour includes admission to the District Museum and Regional Visitor Center, which adds a cultural layer to your walk. Alice’s Journeys provides an engaging experience for those interested in the evolution of Daylesford’s Italianate and Victorian gardens, as well as the stories of the women who shaped the region.

The tour begins at the Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre, with a start time of 1.45 pm on Fridays and 9.45 am on Saturdays. Over approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, you’ll see historic architecture, explore gardens, and hear about local legends. The inclusion of the museum visit makes it ideal for history enthusiasts or families looking for a gentle, educational walk.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s a well-rounded introduction to Daylesford’s layered past, with a focus on women’s stories and grand garden sights. The reviews highlight how welcoming and informative guide Daisy is, with visitors describing it as “absolutely brilliant” and “very interesting and informative.”

Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling, gardens, and a relaxed pace.

2. J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

For those who like their history served with a spooky twist, the J Ward Ghost Tour delivers. Located about two hours from Melbourne, this former asylum was home to Australia’s most infamous inmates, and it now hosts a 2-hour ghost experience that combines history with paranormal tales.

During the tour, you’ll walk through the grounds and historic buildings while hearing about notorious prisoners like Chopper Read, and the spirits rumored to still linger. The included museum visit allows a deeper dive into the dark side of Victorian-era mental health and criminal justice. Reviews show that visitors are impressed by the informative guides and real ghost detection devices, which add an authentic thrill.

What makes this tour unique? It blends history, crime, and supernatural stories, making it ideal for adventure seekers or those interested in Australia’s darker past. The 4.5-star rating reflects its popularity among fans of ghost stories and true crime.

Bottom line: If you’re after a scary, educational evening, this tour is a must-do, especially if you enjoy stories of notorious criminals and ghostly encounters.

3. Daylesford Private Wine Tours

For wine lovers who want a tailored experience, the Daylesford Private Wine Tours are an excellent choice. This 6-hour excursion offers behind-the-scenes visits to top producers, including Passing Clouds Winery and Daylesford Cider Company. You’ll enjoy wine and cider tastings, along with a walk around Lake Daylesford and a visit to Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens.

What makes this tour special? It’s customizable, allowing you to choose cellar doors and sights that interest you most. The guide is knowledgeable about local food and drink culture, and the tour includes stops at unique spots like the Mill Markets for some retail therapy. The quality of tastings and the personalized approach push this above generic winery visits.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 by five reviewers, the tour is praised for its private, relaxed atmosphere and insider insights. At roughly $1,157 per person, it’s a premium experience, suited for special occasions or serious connoisseurs.

Bottom line: If you want a luxurious, flexible wine experience in the Daylesford area, this tour offers exceptional value for those ready to indulge.

4. Private Ballarat Sovereign Hill Gold Mine Tours

Step back into the gold rush era with this full-day private tour that includes visiting Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, and other historic sites. Starting from Melbourne, your day includes gold mine panning, visits to wineries like St. Anne’s, a stop at Kryal Castle, and an encounter with local wildlife at the Ballarat Wildlife Park.

What sets this tour apart? Its comprehensive itinerary covers both the historic and leisure aspects of Ballarat’s gold rush, making it ideal for families, history buffs, or those seeking a full-day immersion. The guided underground mine tour and panning activities are highlights for anyone wanting hands-on gold prospecting.

Reviews mention how well-organized and rich in activities this tour is, with personalized attention from guides. It’s ideal for travellers with a full day available, looking to see multiple attractions without the hassle of planning logistics.

Bottom line: This tour offers great value for a one-day comprehensive experience blending history, food, and fun.

5. Ballarat Foodie and Gin Distillery Tour

If food and drink are your focus, this Foodie and Gin Distillery Tour is a delightful way to explore Ballarat’s culinary scene. Over 2 hours 30 minutes, you’ll visit a secret gin distillery, enjoy local cheeses, and have wood-fired pizza with Asian influences. The tour includes tastings of small-batch spirits and local produce.

What makes this tour stand out? Its progressive degustation format—you’ll sample local cheeses, spirits, and regional dishes—paired with stories about Ballarat’s food heritage. The tour culminates at a 1920s-style Champagne Bar, where you get a free bubbly glass to toast your day.

Rated 5.0 out of 5, reviewers love the curated experience, the insider knowledge of local producers, and the chance to try new flavors. This tour suits foodies, couples, or groups of friends who want a relaxed, flavorful afternoon.

Bottom line: For a tasty, intimate introduction to Ballarat’s culinary scene, this tour offers excellent value and memorable flavors.

6. Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour

Discover Ballarat’s secret corners and stories with this City Tales Walking Tour. Over roughly 2 hours 15 minutes, you’ll explore laneways, historic buildings, and sites like the Eureka speech spot. The tour includes special access to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute, with its impressive old library.

What makes this tour engaging? Its focus on quirky stories, local legends, and lesser-known sites, like Walter Craig’s pub and Bakery Hill. The small group size and personalized stories make it ideal for history lovers and those who prefer walking with purpose.

Rated 5.0 based on 13 reviews, travelers appreciate the relaxed pace and interesting insights. It’s suited for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the city from a different perspective.

Bottom line: If you want a compact, story-filled walk that uncovers Ballarat’s hidden tales, this tour delivers.

7. Ballarat: City Tales Guided Walking Tour + Coffee

Combine history with a relaxed café experience in this City Tales and Coffee Tour. Starting outside Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, you’ll visit Bakery Hill and the Eureka speech site, with exclusive access to the Town Hall’s upper level. The tour lasts about 2 hours 15 minutes, ending at the iconic Sip Champagne Bar, where a drink and art print are included.

This tour is perfect for those who want a bit of storytelling combined with socializing, and enjoy a relaxed pace with a coffee break. The key stories include the Eureka rebellion and Ballarat’s development, told in a friendly, engaging way.

While the reviews are brief, travelers note the excellent guide, and the easy itinerary makes it suitable for families, couples, or friends seeking light history with a social touch.

Bottom line: For a casual, story-rich walk with a drink, this tour hits the spot.

8. Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour

This full-day tour is ideal if you want to see multiple highlights in one day. Starting early, you’ll explore Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens, relax by Lake Wendouree, and then visit Sovereign Hill, Australia’s premier outdoor gold-mining experience. The day ends with a visit to Melbourne’s Skydeck for stunning city views.

Rated 3.0 out of 5, this tour offers value for those who want to pack a lot into a long day, but reviewers note the long travel times and busy schedule. It’s best for travelers who prefer a guided, all-in-one itinerary rather than a slow, in-depth exploration.

Practical for families or first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, this tour suits those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and travel. The inclusion of botanical gardens and the Skydeck adds variety.

Bottom line: If you want the big picture and don’t mind the hustle, this comprehensive bus tour is a solid choice.

9. Ballarat: Vintage Fashion Shopping Tour with Coffee & Bubbly

For fashion lovers and vintage enthusiasts, this Vintage Fashion Shopping Tour promises a fun, slow-paced journey through quirky shops and mysterious laneways. The tour ends at a 1920s-style Champagne Bar, where a free glass of bubbly tops off the experience.

While specific reviews aren’t provided, the focus on local fashion legends and antique shops makes it appealing for style-savvy travelers or those interested in Ballarat’s fashion history. The experience involves hot drinks and sweet treats, making it a delightful way to relax and explore.

This tour is best suited for fashionistas, history fans, or those looking for a leisurely day discovering Ballarat’s unique style scene.

Bottom line: If vintage fashion and boutique shopping appeal to you, this tour offers a charming and stylish way to spend an afternoon.

How to Choose the Perfect Tour for You

Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. For history aficionados, the Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour or the Sovereign Hill Gold Mine Tour offer deep dives into the past. Adventure seekers will love the J Ward Ghost Tour, while foodies should consider the Ballarat Foodie and Gin Distillery Tour.

If luxury and customization are your priorities, then Daylesford Private Wine Tours provide a tailored experience. For those interested in local fashion and laneway stories, the Vintage Fashion Tour offers a stylish change of pace.

Always consider booking early, especially for popular tours, and check if they match your physical activity level. Many tours involve walking or standing, so plan accordingly.

Final thoughts

Ballarat’s diverse tour options mean there’s something for every curiosity and style. Whether you prefer walking through historic streets, panning for gold, or sampling local spirits, the city delivers authentic experiences that won’t disappoint. For a family day, the Sovereign Hill Gold Mine Tour offers a comprehensive adventure, while history fans will enjoy City Tales. If in doubt, a mix of a walking tour and a food or wine adventure can make your trip truly memorable.

Remember to plan ahead and book early, especially during peak times. These tours are the perfect way to uncover Ballarat’s authentic character—so go ahead and lock in your spot for a memorable journey.