Melbourne: Hidden Bars & Creepy Tales Walking Tour

This walking tour in Melbourne promises a unique mix of spooky stories and intimate laneway bar visits, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of history with their nightlife. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews consistently highlight the engaging guides and atmospheric locations that make this tour stand out.

What makes this experience appealing? First, it offers a chance to uncover Melbourne’s darker side, from haunted sites to chilling tales of serial killers. Second, you get to explore some of the city’s coolest hidden bars, each carefully chosen and reserved in advance. Lastly, the tour’s blend of storytelling, history, and intimate drinking spots creates an unusual yet compelling way to see the city.

A potential consideration? It’s primarily a walking experience in the city’s laneways, so comfortable shoes are essential, and the tour is not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for adults interested in a mix of history, ghost stories, and Melbourne’s vibrant bar scene.

If you’re after an evening that combines tales of Melbourne’s macabre with some top-secret watering holes, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for history buffs, nightlife lovers, or anyone curious about the city’s darker, lesser-known stories.

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Key Points

Authentic storytelling about Melbourne’s creepy past, from haunted graveyards to infamous characters
Visits to 3 exclusive hidden laneway bars, each with its own unique character and ambiance
Knowledgeable guides who are enthusiastic and well-versed in local history and folklore
A mix of history and nightlife that balances spooky stories with a relaxed, social experience
Comfortable, flat walking through Melbourne’s graffiti-filled laneways and historic sites
Value for money at $43, including three carefully curated bar visits and engaging storytelling

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Exploring Melbourne’s Dark Past and Secret Bars

We are always excited about tours that offer a different perspective of a city, and this Melbourne experience certainly fits that bill. The 3-hour walking tour combines a curated journey through Melbourne’s shadowy stories with visits to some of the city’s coolest hidden bars.

Starting outside the Queen Victoria Markets, the guide (usually in a distinctive black logo jacket) leads you into a side of Melbourne many don’t see — a city filled with tales of ghosts, graveyards, and infamous characters. This setup immediately sets a relaxed yet intriguing tone.

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The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

The tour begins with a walk through the graffiti-adorned laneways, which are a highlight in their own right, creating an atmospheric backdrop for stories that are equally dark and fascinating. Your guide will share tales of Melbourne’s first graveyard and stories linked to World War II serial killers.

Some reviews mention the guide’s real enthusiasm: “Bridget was an amazing guide and showed great motivation and excitement about very interesting creepy tales,” one review states. This energy makes the stories more engaging, especially when they involve bodies in boxes or the chilling legend of a man believed to be Jack the Ripper.

The highlight for many is visiting three secret bars that aren’t on the usual tourist trail. The guides handle reservations, ensuring you don’t have to scramble for tables or worry about long waits. Each bar has its own vibe, from speakeasy-style hideouts to cozy, character-filled spots. Reviewers often mention how the final bar is particularly cool and that conversations and drinks flow easily in these intimate spaces.

The Stories: Why They Matter

The tales shared are not just spooky stories for thrill-seekers; they give a glimpse into Melbourne’s past that’s often overlooked. From the site of Melbourne’s first graveyard to the stories of a WW2 serial killer, the stories are well-researched and captivating. One reviewer notes that “you’ll gain a deep insight into Melbourne’s past,” which speaks to the atmosphere of discovery.

The guide’s storytelling is complemented by the ambiance of the bars — dimly lit, full of character, and often steeped in their own history. It’s an experience that balances entertainment with education, and you’ll find yourself pondering Melbourne’s darker chapters long after the tour ends.

The Bar Experience: Hidden Gems

The hidden bars are a big draw. The guides’ pre-reserved spots mean you can relax and soak in the vibe without the stress of securing a table. Reviewers rave about the unique character of these bars: “The final Speakeasy Bar was the coolest,” and “each bar has its own special character.”

While the tour doesn’t include drinks or food, the selection of bars means you’re free to order what you like — and at these hidden spots, the drinks are often memorable, with some reviewers mentioning excellent wine choices. The ambiance often enhances the storytelling, making for a seamless blend of history and nightlife.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

At $43 per person, the value is quite good considering the three curated bar visits, the storytelling, and the insider knowledge you gain. The tour generally takes place in the afternoon or evening, lasting about 3 hours, which is ideal for a relaxed night out without feeling rushed.

The guide is in English, and the tour operates rain or shine — so check the weather beforehand. Comfortable, flat shoes are a must since a fair amount of walking through laneways is involved. The meeting point is straightforward, right outside L Shed at Queen Victoria Markets, marked by a distinctive black and pink logo.

Guests should bring their passport or ID for check-in, and beware that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or anyone with mobility issues. No luggage, large bags, or sandals are allowed, so pack light and dress appropriately.

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The Guides and Guest Experiences

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. “Bridget was engaging, fun, and so knowledgeable,” says one reviewer, emphasizing how guides make the stories come alive. Others mention the passion of guides like Tess and Alda, who make the history feel accessible and fun.

Guests also appreciate the additional perks, like free maps of Melbourne’s best bars and photographs of the tour, which help extend the experience beyond the night itself.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This isn’t your typical bar crawl. It’s perfect for travelers who love stories, history, and a bit of the eerie. If you’re into uncovering Melbourne’s lesser-known stories and enjoy cozy, secretive venues, this tour will satisfy. It’s also a great way to combine sightseeing with nightlife without the usual hustle.

However, it’s not suited for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges. If you prefer a more relaxed, less walking-focused experience or are after a traditional pub crawl, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne: Hidden Bars & Creepy Tales Walking Tour offers a compelling mix of spooky stories and intimate bar visits that few experiences can match. The guides receive high praise for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the stories come alive. The carefully selected hidden bars provide a genuine sense of discovery, adding a special touch to the evening.

The tour strikes a good balance between history, entertainment, and socializing, making it ideal for those curious about Melbourne’s dark side or lovers of unique nightlife. The value for money is clear, considering the curated experience and insider knowledge you gain.

If you’re after a different way to explore Melbourne’s past and present, this tour will leave you with memorable stories, new favorite bars, and a fresh perspective on the city’s intriguing history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the tour include?
It includes visits to 3 hidden bars, storytelling about Melbourne’s dark past, and exploring laneways and historic locations.

Are drinks or food included?
No, drinks and food are not part of the package, but the bars visited typically serve a wide selection of beverages.

Where do I meet the guide?
Outside L Shed at Queen Victoria Markets, at the corner of String Bean Alley and Queen St., marked by a black, white, and pink logo.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, usually in the afternoon or evening.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended as there’s quite a bit of strolling through laneways.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $43 per person, offering good value considering the curated experience.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but casual wear is fine; just avoid sandals, flip flops, or sleeveless shirts.

Can I get a map of Melbourne’s bars?
Yes, guests can request a free map of Melbourne’s best bars and photos of the tour afterward.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This tour offers a memorable blend of history, mystery, and Melbourne’s secret nightlife—ideal for those who enjoy stories and hidden gems, making it a standout experience for curious travelers.