Full-day Melbourne City Sightseeing with Penguin Parade

Melbourne , Australia

Full-day Melbourne City Sightseeing with Penguin Parade

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(244 reviews)

14h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the magic of Melbourne and enjoy two destinations in a single day! Our expert guide will take you to some of Melbourne's most iconic buildings and cultural landmarks before heading to Phillip Island to witness the world-famous penguin parade.

Melbourne, a city bursting with lush gardens, vibrant restaurants, charming alleys, and a buzzing art scene, is waiting for you.

We'll kick things off with iconic photo spots, like the MCG forecourt, Hosier Lane, Fitzroy Gardens, and the Shrine of Remembrance. These aren't just places; they're your ticket to unforgettable moments and Instagram-worthy snapshots.

But hold onto your hats, because after the Melbourne buzz, it's time to switch gears and immerse yourself in nature. Walk along the scenic coastal boardwalks at The Nobbies and as the sun dips below the horizon, get ready for the grand finale—the Penguin Parade.

It's a natural spectacle that'll leave you in awe.

Available options

Full-day Melbourne City Sightseeing with Penguin Parade

What's included

Entry fees for attractions & Phillip island Penguin Parade

All Fees and Taxes

WiFi on board

All internal transfers

Friendly & Informative Tour Guide

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Join us for a morning Melbourne City Discovery Tour, followed by a trip to Phillip Island to experience the Penguin Parade!

Stop 2

Stroll through Melbourne's most famous street art destination, renowned for its constantly changing murals and vibrant graffiti. This narrow laneway has become a cultural hotspot, showcasing Melbourne's dynamic art scene.

Stop 3 Pass by

Take a drive past Melbourne's iconic landmark, Flinders Street Station!

Stop 4 Pass by

Admire the stunning St. Paul's Cathedral, a magnificent architecture in the heart of Melbourne.

Pass by the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of art from around the world.

Stop 6

Honour the men and women of Victoria who served in World War I and now a memorial to all Australians who served in global conflicts. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Melbourne from the viewing area.

Stop 7

Stop by Australia’s biggest stadium and learn all about our original game of Australian Rules Football. We visit the forecourt area only.

Stop 8 Pass by

Admire the Old Treasury Building, a beautiful heritage site showcasing Melbourne's rich history.

Stop 9 Pass by

Appreciate the Parliament House, a landmark with remarkable architecture at the center of the city's political landscape.

Stop 10

Stop at St. Patrick's Cathedral, a leading example of Gothic-revival architecture.

Stop 11

Visit Fitzroy Gardens, where you'll go for a quick stop at the Conservatory, a stunning display of lush plant life in the heart of the city and Cook's Cottage, the historic home of Captain James Cook's parents.

Take a brief stroll at a local distillery offering a taste of Melbourne’s craft spirits.

Pass by Lygon Street, famous for its vibrant Italian cafés and restaurants.

Stop 14 Pass by

Pass through the Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site renowned for its impressive design and historical significance.

Stop 15 Pass by

Drive by Queen Victoria Market, a bustling hub for fresh produce, food, and local goods.

Once we meet next to the Immigration Museum after lunch, we’ll begin our journey to Phillip Island for the Penguin Parade!

Stop 17

Stop by this stunning surf beach at Cape Woolamai! We visit this spot only during the summer.

Enjoy a dinner stop in Cowes, offering a variety of dining options! We only stop at this spot during the summer.

Enjoy beautiful views across the ocean while you spot the local seal colony.

Stop 20

The nightly spectacular! See the cute little penguins waddle ashore to their nesting grounds. Stroll along the boardwalks and enjoy a world-class visitors' centre filled with interesting exhibitions on the worlds smallest penguin.

What's not included

Food & Drink

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

HI DE RU KO PT CMN MS IT FR ES AR VI TH JA

Written guide

HI DE RU KO PT CMN MS EN IT FR ES AR VI TH JA

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

237 reviews

5★

229

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photography of any kind is not permitted at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board

The total duration of the tour is between 12-14 hours depending on the season

The itinerary includes vehicle based sightseeing across Melbourne, photo opportunities at key locations, all internal transfers & a visit to Phillip Island

Meeting point

Please wait at the corner of Flinders & Market Streets, next to the Immigration Museum. **Please do not wait at the front entry of the Museum**

- Pickup is at 9am if travelling during non-daylight savings, AEST.
- Pickup is at 10am if travelling during daylight savings, AEDT.

Important notes

• You must contact Go West Tours directly at least 24 hours prior to departure to confirm your booking and pick up details as these will not be provided on your voucher

• Pick up is at 9am (Apr-Sep) & at 10am (Oct-Mar)

• Our guides are unable to wait for extended periods of time for missing guests and we ask that you arrive at the designated departure point at least 10 minutes early

• Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board

• Want to listen to tour information in your own language while enjoying the sights on the day? Don't forget to download the free Go West Tours app prior to your tour departure!
Follow these links to download the App:
Apple Store: https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/go-west-tours/id1397169660?mt=8
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.GoWest.GoWest.GoWest

• Go West’s opening hours are:
07:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday
07:00 - 12:00 Saturday to Sunday

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