Melbourne Cafe and Coffee Culture Walking Tour

Melbourne , Australia

Melbourne Cafe and Coffee Culture Walking Tour

Active

(20 reviews)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Meet outside iconic Hill of Content Bookshop at 32 Bourke Street in the Melbourne CBD. Look out for our guide with the yellow golf umbrella.
On this Cafe Culture tour, your guide will lead you to explore the maze of Melbourne’s laneways, learning how the coffee culture evolved from the coffee palaces of the ‘50s to the trendy cafes of today. This tour gives you the chance to escape the most crowded spots in favor of smaller, less-frequented lanes, hiding away some of the most unique and interesting cafes. Soak up the aroma of roasting coffee beans, while tasting the delights that Melbourne cafes have on offer.

This tour isn’t just for coffee enthusiasts; tea, chocolate and sweet treats also feature on this tour.

After indulging in some of the best cafes and delights Melbourne has on offer, your tour concludes with a great cafe-style lunch in yet another unique, hidden Melbourne location.

Available options

Melbourne Cafe and Coffee Culture Walking Tour

What's included

Local guide

Cafe-style lunch

Information pack with city maps

Coffee and food tastings

Detailed itinerary

As cafe lovers will tell you, there is more to coffee than a 43-bean blend – it’s also about where you’re enjoying your cup of joe. Nowhere in Australia is this more true that in Melbourne, home to a thriving cafe culture. On this small-group walking tour through Melbourne’s maze of narrow laneways, hear from your local guide the stories of the coffee revolution, from the large coffee palaces in the 1950s to today’s hip boutique coffee bars.

Hop on the tram and ride away from the crowds to smaller, lesser-known lanes that are a coffee junkie’s paradise. As you walk, enjoy the rich aroma of coffee roasting and smell exotic herbs and spices coming from the cafes. Discover the individual characteristics of each cafe, which together make up the best cafe culture in Melbourne.

Finish your tour with a light and delicious cafe-style lunch and a cup of coffee, all included.

...

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Min 4, Max 8 guests per tour. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if min not reached. In this instance you will be offered an alternative tour/date or a full refund

We do not recommend this walk for children aged 13 and under

We operate in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Meeting point

Please meet your guide outside Hill of Content Bookshop, 32 Bourke Street
Directions: Please meet your guide outside of the bookshop; your guide will be holding a large yellow golf umbrella. Please arrive at least 5 minutes prior to departure time.
Return point: Concludes at approximately 2pm

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination.

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