Private Melbourne Tour with a Local: Custom Highlights & Gems

Melbourne , Australia

Private Melbourne Tour with a Local: Custom Highlights & Gems

Active

(37 reviews)

2h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This isn’t a typical sightseeing tour. It’s a City Unscripted experience, crafted entirely around you. Discover Melbourne with a knowledgeable local host who tailors your walking tour to suit your interests, travel style, and pace. From hidden laneway cafés to historic arcades, vibrant street art, and leafy gardens, every stop reveals a unique side of the city.

Before the tour, you’ll complete a short online questionnaire so we can match you with the right local host and plan a day filled with authentic moments, local insight, and meaningful connection.

Available options

Melbourne Walking Tour - 8hrs

Duration: 8 hours

Melbourne Walking Tour - 3hrs

Duration: 3 hours

Melbourne Walking Tour - 6hrs

Duration: 6 hours

Melbourne Walking Tour - 2hrs

Duration: 2 hours

Melbourne Walking Tour - 4hrs

Duration: 4 hours

What's included

Online questionnaire link sent after booking to tailor your experience and match you to a local host

Flexible durations and start times - Pick your preferred duration when you book

Get picked up (on foot) at your accommodation if it's central!

Private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local

Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations

Detailed itinerary

See Melbourne through the eyes of someone who calls it home, uncovering the city's creative energy, multicultural flavors, and laid-back rhythm with a local host by your side. This isn’t just a tour, it’s a City Unscripted experience: real people, real connections, designed around you, full of authentic moments and unforgettable discoveries.

Before your adventure begins, you’ll receive a short online questionnaire so we can craft an itinerary that reflects your interests, whether it’s sampling street-side pho, navigating narrow alleyways in the Old Quarter, or sipping egg coffee in a tucked-away café only locals know. Here are some highlights to spark your curiosity:

Wander Melbourne’s creative quarter, where bold murals, vintage boutiques, and quirky cafés come together in a neighborhood full of artistic flair. Your local host shares the stories behind the ever-evolving street art scene.

Stop 3 Pass by

Explore a tranquil space just outside the city center, with elm-lined paths, ornamental fountains, and historic cottages. It’s a peaceful escape loved by locals and a window into Melbourne’s colonial past.

Stop 4 Pass by

Dive into Melbourne’s food scene at this lively open-air market. Sample multicultural flavors, browse local produce, and discover the energy of one of the city’s most iconic gathering places.

Stop 5 Pass by

Stroll the scenic riverside path, passing public art, leafy banks, and striking city views. Your local host will share how the river shapes Melbourne’s identity and daily life.

Wrap up your day by the bay, where locals come for sunset views, ocean breezes, and laid-back beach culture. From penguin-spotting on the pier to relaxed seaside cafés, your host offers tips to keep the experience going.

What's not included

Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions

Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a private City Unscripted experience: real people, real connections

After booking, you'll receive a short online questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your City Unscripted guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.

This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.

Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.

Meeting point

This is a private walking tour. Your host will meet you at your chosen hotel, or you can select the central meeting point instead, which we recommend for the best overall experience. If your hotel isn’t listed, please choose the central landmark option. No private vehicle is included.

Important notes

Once you've booked your experience, your local host will personally reach out to tailor the adventure to your interests. Whether you're seeking authentic food spots, cultural insights, or hidden gems, we ensure your journey is immersive, personalized, and uniquely yours, transforming your tour into a meaningful connection with the city.

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