Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Melbourne Private Tour
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Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Melbourne Private Tour

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(15 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is not just another city tour; this is the best of Melbourne from a unique perspective! Get to know Melbourne on a city tour that gives you the perfect overview, with city highlights, hidden gems, storytelling, and a local treat - this tour has it all!

Forget about big touristy groups and the crowds; it's time to see Melbourne at its best but from the eyes of a local. Check out main landmarks like Chinatown, Block Arcade, National Gallery of Victoria and uncover hidden gems and city secrets with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. And the cherry on top, a local treat is included.

Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems Private City Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Available options

Private Tour

What's included

Private Tour
Local Guide
1 local drink/tasting

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Walk alongside Melbourne’s Yarra River on the Crown Riverwalk, admire the skyline; see the tallest buildings, art installations along the way.

2
Stop 2

See first of two bridges crossing the Yarra to the other side to Flinders Street Station and more in this private tour.

3
Stop 3

Pass nearby Eureka Tower, tallest building in Melbourne at present.

4

The second bridge is the Southbank Footbridge with the curved beam that towers over the bridge.

5

Princes Bridge was designed by Jenkins, D'Ebro and Grainger and constructed in 1886-88 by David Munro.

6
Stop 6

Arts Centre, Melbourne, a complex of distinct venues, Hamer Hall, Playhouse Theatre, State Theatre, Fairfax Studio and Galleries and the Australian Music Vault are next on your list.

7

Surround yourself with Australian music memorabilia in this private tour.

8
Stop 8

Next door, you will enter the National Gallery of Victoria for a brief visit to see the world’s largest stained glass ceiling by Simon Fieldhouse.

9
Stop 9

Cross over St Kilda Road, to the right is Kings Domain and beyond is the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, named after the founder of the Myer Emporium Department Store founder.

10
Stop 10

Flinders Street Station, opened 1910, French Renaissance architecture, it covers two city blocks, the first railway station in an Australian city and the world’s busiest passenger station in the late 1920s.

11

Heritage listed, hence only site saved from demolition for metro works and some other interesting history lays behind this magnificent building.

12
Stop 12

St. Paul’s Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral built 1880-91. An Anglican cathedral, church of the Diocese of Melbourne and the seat of the Archbishop of Melbourne.

13
Stop 13

Next it's Hosier Lane, a bluestone laneway notable for its quality, sophisticated Urban Street Art, often political and controversial, it changes frequently.

14

Named as a tribute to Australian rock band AC/DC lane has lots of great story and art behind.

15
Stop 15

Cross Collins Street and through the Block Arcade, opened in 1892 and considered one of the late Victorian era’s finest shopping arcades.

16

This is a pedestrian and no smoking mall, the heart of Melbourne with our two major department stores David Jones and Myer.

17

Chinatown is next, a distinctive and well known area of Melbourne which dates back to the gold rush days of the 1850s.

18

You will walk along a few blocks over Russell and Exhibition Streets and turn right at Crossley Lane and back to Bourke Street to Pellegrini’s Bar, another Melbourne institution, co-owned and started by the late and great Sisto Malsapina.

19
Stop 19

Continuing left along Bourke Street a couple minutes to the end and you will come to Spring Street with the imposing Parliament House, one of Melbourne’s best known landmarks, the meeting place for the Parliament of Victoria at the end of the Hoddle Grid

20
Stop 20

Hear all the stories including the one that states that the theatre is haunted by a friendly ghost, Federici. Many of the world’s most successful productions have been staged here, including Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Cats, Mamma Mia!

What's not included

Hotel pick up and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4
9 reviews
5★
7
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.3
6 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Private tour: only you & your local guide
CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
Post Covid-19 regulations are applied to this product with regards to the number of participants, delivery methods of the tour and content of the tour.

Meeting point

In front of Merrywell Bar and Dining
Crown Riverwalk, Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
  • • Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air
  • Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center
By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley
60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula
80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island
140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

  • Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
  • Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
  • Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
  • Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
  • Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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