Melbourne Laneways Discovery Running Tour

Melbourne , Australia

Melbourne Laneways Discovery Running Tour

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(27 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Uncover Melbourne’s hidden stories, street art, and rich history on our Laneways Discovery Running Tour. This guided 8km (5-mile) run begins at 8:00 am from Federation Square, offering a vibrant way to experience the city before it wakes up. The pace is relaxed and suitable for all levels, with plenty of stops for photos, stories, and secret spots.

We kick off at Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s iconic street art alley, before heading to ACDC Lane — full of music, murals, and energy. From there, we run riverside through Birrarung Marr, then past the historic Mitre Tavern, State Library Victoria, and the haunting Old Melbourne Gaol. Along the way, hear tales of convicts, rebels, and legends like Ned Kelly.

We breeze through Little Lon and colourful Chinatown, before finishing with a coffee at Centre Place, surrounded by laneway cafés and local character. Whether you're new to town or a lifelong Melburnian, this is a run through the stories that built the city.

Available options

Laneways Discovery Tour

What's included

A wonderful tour guide to lead the way and share the stories, history and myths of Melbourne

All photos will be taken for you so all you need to do is look around and take it all in!

Coffee or an alternative drink to finish the tour is included

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We begin at Federation Square, Melbourne’s cultural meeting point and launchpad for exploring the city in motion.

Stop 2 Pass by

At Hosier Lane, ever-changing murals showcase Melbourne’s global reputation for street art and creativity.

We pass through ACDC Lane, where gritty walls and live music venues honour Australia’s rock heritage.

By the Mitre Tavern, we uncover stories from one of Melbourne’s oldest surviving pubs and colonial past.

We jog through Hardware Lane, a charming European-style laneway known for its history, cafés, and cobblestone character.

Stop 6 Pass by

At the Old Melbourne Gaol, we uncover tales of crime, justice and injustice, and the infamous life of Ned Kelly.

In Chinatown, we explore the sights, smells, and stories of one of the oldest Chinese precincts in the West.

We end with coffee in Centre Place, soaking in the laneway energy, tucked-away cafés, and Melbourne’s signature charm.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

23 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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please wear suitable running attire

Meeting point

This tour starts at Federation Square outside Time Out Cafe. The nearest intersection is Swanston & Flinders Street. Time Out Cafe has orange umbrellas/ shade sails in front of it. Your tour guide will meet you in front of this cafe.

Important notes

Please wear suitable running attire

There is nowhere to store luggage or bags
**There is no need to print this ticket**

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