Melbourne’s 15 Top Historical Tours (With Prices)

Melbourne’s unique blend of indigenous culture, gold rush wealth, and urban grit makes it a fantastic city for exploring history through walking tours and engaging experiences. Unlike many places that offer only a glance at landmarks, Melbourne’s tours dive into stories that reveal its complex past—whether it’s the aboriginal traditions in the Royal Botanic Gardens, the seedy gangster nights of Lonsdale Street, or the rock-and-roll streets of Fitzroy. Some tours, like the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, give you a deep cultural perspective, while others, such as the Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops, peel back Melbourne’s gritty underbelly. Each offers something different—so whether you’re a history lover or a curious traveler, you’ll find stories worth exploring.

Melbourne’s public spaces, laneways, and historic buildings are key to understanding the city’s story, and many tours capitalize on that. We especially like tours that combine storytelling with authentic local experiences, like enjoying a local pub or tasting famous Melbourne donuts, providing both context and flavor.

Quick Overview

This list covers a variety of walking tours and city explorations with themes that range from Indigenous heritage, crime and gangster lore, to food and drink history. Some tours focus on public landmarks and architecture, like the Melbourne Landmark City Tour, while others, like the History and Donuts Walking Tour, combine fun snacks with city stories. For a more immersive nature experience, check out the Walk the Yarra & Heritage Convent Experience. Whether you want cultural insights, street art, or local nightlife, Melbourne’s got a tour for you.

1. Aboriginal Heritage Walk – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens

This 1.5-hour tour immerses you in the lands of the Koolin Nation, with an Aboriginal guide who explains traditional plant uses, customs, and stories. The Royal Botanic Gardens, a site of great cultural importance, becomes a living classroom, revealing the deep connections between indigenous people and the land. The tour includes a delicious lemon myrtle tea—a small but tasty reminder of native flavors—and a chance to see native plants used for food and medicine. What makes this experience stand out is the authentic storytelling from an Aboriginal guide, which offers a genuine window into the First Peoples’ ongoing connection to country. Reviewers note the casual yet informative tone, with Uncle Ben’s poetic storytelling being a highlight.

Bottom line: For those interested in indigenous culture and plant lore, this tour offers an engaging, educational experience in a beautiful setting at a very reasonable price.

2. Ultimate Melbourne Walking Tour: History, Laneways & Culture

This 3-hour tour tackles Melbourne’s hidden alleyways, street art, and iconic landmarks. Starting from Spring Street, you’ll visit Parliament, the Old Treasury Building, and explore Hosier Lane’s ever-changing street art. The tour includes a complimentary hot drink and a drink at a historic pub, giving you a taste of local culture. As you stroll past Federation Square, the MCG, and Flinders Street Station, the guide shares insights into Melbourne’s rise as a wealthy city during the Gold Rush. The itinerary includes insider tips on where to eat and drink, making this tour both educational and practical. Visitors praise the balanced pace and engaging commentary.

Bottom line: Best suited for urban explorers interested in architecture, street art, and local culture—this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Melbourne’s vibrant city life.

3. Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops

This 2-hour walk dives into Melbourne’s darker past—from the 1870s to the 1930s. You’ll visit buildings once used as brothels, speakeasies, and crime hubs, with stories about gangsters like Squizzy Taylor. The tour begins at the Little Lon Distilling Co., a location tied to Melbourne’s red-light history, where police files reveal chilling stories. The guide brings the city’s gangster legends to life, mixing myth and fact. Reviewers mention the tour’s well-researched stories and engaging delivery, making history feel vivid and real.

Bottom line: Perfect for history and crime enthusiasts wanting a glimpse into Melbourne’s seedy underbelly—a small group ensures an intimate experience.

4. Melbourne’s History with a Drink Tour

This 3-hour tour combines history and nightlife, starting at the Old Treasury Building. You’ll visit 3 carefully selected bars, pubs, or speakeasies, each with its own story. The guide weaves tales of Gold Rush rebellions, royals, and Olympians while you enjoy drinks like craft cocktails or local wines. The tour is designed for those who love stories as much as a good drink—and it’s perfect for an evening out. The reviews highlight the fun vibe and insider knowledge, with many noting this as a great way to experience Melbourne’s bar scene authentically.

Bottom line: Ideal for nightlife lovers who want a story-packed pub crawl with a relaxed, social atmosphere.

5. Melbourne: History and Donuts Walking Tour

This 2.5-hour tour offers a sweet take on Melbourne’s historic streets and laneways. Starting at Federation Square, you’ll explore Hosier Lane’s street art, Degraves Street cafes, and the Queen Victoria Market—all while tasting delicious donuts and local foods. The guide shares stories about Melbourne’s multicultural origins and landmark buildings like St. Paul’s Cathedral. Reviewers love the combination of history and treats, calling it a fun and flavorful way to learn about the city.

Bottom line: Best for foodies and casual explorers, this tour pairs cultural insights with tasty bites.

6. History and Donuts Walking Tour

For around $69, this small-group tour takes you through Melbourne’s historic laneways and Chinatown, with a focus on dark stories and colorful street art. The tour includes a visit to the second oldest Chinatown and complimentary coffee and donuts. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll learn about Melbourne’s diverse immigrant roots and its layered history. Reviewers mention the depth of knowledge and relaxed pace, making this a great choice for history buffs who appreciate a sweet treat along the way.

Bottom line: Suited for those who want a personal experience and love street art, with a tasty bonus.

7. Melbourne Tour: Walk the Yarra & Heritage Convent Experience

This immersive 3-4 hour tour takes you just outside the city, along the Yarra River and into Yarra Bend Park. It includes a scenic trail walk, a visit to Dights Falls, and ends with tea and cake at the Abbotsford Convent. The focus is on nature, First Nations history, and local culture. Tour guide Michael shares stories of the Wurundjeri people and the land’s evolution, making it perfect for travelers interested in outdoor experiences and cultural heritage. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and quiet pace.

Bottom line: Best for nature lovers and cultural explorers seeking a relaxing, educational outing outside central Melbourne.

8. Pose for Professional Pics While Enjoying Melbourne History Walk

This 3.5-hour tour combines city sightseeing with a professional photo shoot. Starting at the Immigration Museum, the guide takes you past Collins Street’s architecture and the Block Arcade. The highlight is the professional photos taken along the way, capturing your visit. The guide, also a photographer, shares stories about Melbourne’s colorful characters and architecture. Reviewers appreciate the personalized experience and quality photos—a perfect souvenir.

Bottom line: Ideal for families or couples wanting memorable photos and a taste of Melbourne’s architecture and stories.

9. Melbourne: Citys History and Unique Bar Scene Tour

This 3-hour private tour is perfect for small groups, exploring Melbourne’s historic and hidden bar scene. Starting at the Sir William John Clarke Memorial, the tour visits Chinatown, Little Lon Distilling Co., and other secret spots. The guide shares stories of Melbourne’s nightlife, Prohibition, and secret speakeasies. Reviews praise the personalized attention and the hidden gems uncovered along the way.

Bottom line: Best suited for nightlife enthusiasts and those seeking an intimate experience.

10. Private Melbourne: Fitzroy, Collingwood, Culture, Coffee, History

This 3-hour private tour explores Fitzroy and Collingwood, two neighborhoods famous for street art, eclectic cafes, and migrant communities. The guide shares stories about Aboriginal history and local projects like STREAT social enterprise. Highlights include coffee at a social enterprise cafe, visual street art, and a visit to the Keith Haring mural. Reviewers value the personalized attention and deep dive into local culture.

Bottom line: Great for cultural explorers, art lovers, and those wanting a tailored experience.

11. Private Melbourne's History with a Drink Tour

This 3-hour private booze-and-history tour brings you to at least three bars or distilleries. Starting at the Sir William John Clarke Memorial, the guide takes you through hidden bars, historic neighborhoods, and small-batch distilleries. It’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling with a drink in hand, and the tour emphasizes Melbourne’s Prohibition-era secrets. The reviews note the relaxed vibe and attention to personal preferences.

Bottom line: A fantastic way for adults to explore Melbourne’s bar scene while learning about its secret past.

12. Romance & Glamour: Discover Melbourne's True Italian Food History

This 3-hour walk reveals Melbourne’s Italian migration stories through visits to Lygon Street, the Royal Exhibition Building, and Museo Italiano. Led by Dr. Tania Cammarano, the tour uncovers how Italian culture shaped local cuisine, busts myths, and introduces you to early Italian food entrepreneurs. The experience ends with antipasto and wine. Reviewers love the historical insights combined with delicious food, making it perfect for foodies interested in migration stories.

Bottom line: Ideal for culinary history enthusiasts and Italian culture lovers.

13. Melbourne Landmark City Tour. Your day Your way Your private tour

This 7-hour private sightseeing tour covers major landmarks like Queen Victoria Market, the Shrine of Remembrance, and Brighton Beach. Combining driving and walking, you customize the experience based on your interests. The guide shares details about Melbourne’s most famous streets, theatres, and parks. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personalized approach.

Bottom line: Best for families or small groups wanting a full day of tailored sightseeing with comfort and flexibility.

14. Melbourne Art, History, Wine & Food Walking Tour

This 2-hour tour explores art-filled laneways, historic buildings, and concludes with a wine tasting at a classic Melbourne wine bar. Led by David from Curious Wanderers, it combines visual art, history, and taste in a compact experience. The tour’s focus on local art scenes and Portuguese-inspired tapas makes it a refined option for culture and wine lovers.

Bottom line: A short but sweet experience that marries art, history, and wine, perfect for those with limited time but wanting depth.

15. Melbourne Tours Walk the Yarra & Historic Boathouse Lunch

This 3 to 4-hour tour offers a nature-infused exploration along the Yarra River, combined with a lunch at the historic Fairfield Boathouse. Perfect for outdoor lovers and history buffs, the walk covers local wildlife, heritage sites, and scenic views. The guide narrates stories of the river’s past while the group enjoys a relaxing meal. Reviewers mention the peaceful pace and beautiful surroundings.

Bottom line: Ideal for families, couples, or quiet explorers wanting a combination of nature, history, and good food.

How to Choose

When selecting a tour in Melbourne, consider your interests and energy level. Want a deep dive into Aboriginal culture? The Aboriginal Heritage Walk is perfect. Looking for urban streets, street art, and hidden bars? The Ultimate Melbourne Walking Tour or the Citys History and Bar Scene fit well. For those wanting a personalized experience, private tours like Fitzroy & Collingwood or the Landmark City Tour are excellent options.

Consider your budget and time commitment too—smaller tours are often more intimate, while full-day tours pack in more sights. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.

In summary, Melbourne offers a rich mix of historical storytelling, cultural insights, and urban adventure. Whether you’re interested in aboriginal traditions, gangster tales, or exploring laneways with a snack in hand, these tours provide a window into the city’s layered past. For a cultural deep dive, the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Glamour and Italian Food tour are highly recommended. For a more lively, social experience, the History with a Drink or private bar-hopping tours fit the bill. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these compelling journeys through Melbourne’s past.