The Taste of Melbourne: Laneways, Boroughs, Bites and Brews

Melbourne , Australia

The Taste of Melbourne: Laneways, Boroughs, Bites and Brews

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(28 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Melbourne's food and drink scene on Australia's only daily progressive tasting tour combining comfortable mini-bus transport with walking experiences through authentic neighbourhoods and famous laneways, blending legendary coffee culture, vibrant street art, and award-winning cuisine.

Start with premium barista-made coffee overlooking the skyline, then travel between six handpicked locations with short walks (max 400m). Experience artisan sweet treats in Royal Botanic Gardens, authentic dumplings in hidden laneways, cheese at Queen Victoria Market or Royal and Block Arcades, infused vodka at Naked for Satan's iconic Fitzroy rooftop, and craft beer at a local brewery.

Small groups with expert local guides access neighbourhood gems only locals know. Discover culinary stories, artisan producers, and creative food communities while learning why Melbourne's food culture rivals Paris and New York through this perfect balance of comfortable travel and immersive exploration.

Available options

Morning Departure Tour

What's included

Melbourne craft brewery experience and local beer traditions to conclude your culinary journey

Private mini-bus transport between locations with expert guide commentary and culinary insights

6 food and drink experiences- barista coffee, sweet treats, dumplings, vodka, cheese, and craft beer

6 short-walk food stops for accessible, intimate neighborhood encounters

Small group experience featuring local producers, food history, and Melbourne's culinary traditions

Detailed itinerary

Meetup at Melbourne Arts Centre - come with an empty tummy and an palate ready to be enriched by Melbourne tastiest flavours.

Stop 2

Coffee in hand, stroll to a hidden lookout over Melbourne's skyline and Yarra River. Discover what makes Melbourne special and the stories behind this thriving metropolis.

Tasting included: freshly brewed barista coffee

Stop 3

Melbourne's Famous Laneways - experience Melbourne's iconic laneways—narrow, vibrant spaces alive with ever-changing street art capturing the city's creative pulse, where every wall tells a story in bold colour and style.

Tasting included: Laneway Dumplings

Stop 4

Drive through Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens, Kings Domain, and past the iconic Shrine of Remembrance, experiencing Melbourne's stunning historic parklands and green spaces.

Tasting included: Strawberries and Chocolate

Melbourne's Bohemian Heart - Experience Fitzroy's creative spirit at Naked for Satan, a beloved local haunt with rooftop views. Enjoy complimentary infused vodkas, a craft beer or other drink of choice while soaking in Melbourne's bohemian culture.

Tasting included: Infused Vodkas or Choice of Local Drinks

Stop 6

Drive through Melbourne's world-famous sporting precinct along Olympic Boulevard. See the iconic MCG, Rod Laver Arena, AAMI Park, and experience why Melbourne is the sporting capital of the world.

Stop 7

Visit Melbourne's iconic Queen Victoria Market, a living institution since the 1870s brimming with local flavors and culture. Enjoy complimentary cheese tastings and savory delights where generations gather to trade and taste.

Tasting included – Cheeses and Local Savoury Delights

Note: only visited Tues, Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun

Step into Melbourne's elegant 19th-century Royal and Block Arcades, featuring stunning mosaic floors, glass domes, and boutique shops showcasing the city's golden era charm and architectural heritage.

Tasting included – Cheeses and Local Savoury Delights

Note: only visited Mon, Wed

Enjoy a fresh pour from a local craft brewery - learn about Melbourne's award-winning beer culture and traditions (venue changes depending on the day).

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet outside the Protagonist Cafe, outside the Melbourne Arts Centre.
Do not wait at Hamer Hall.

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