Melbourne is one of Australia’s most endearing cities, with a relaxed vibe and great culture, arts and nightlife. Here are five sightseeing tours to get acquainted with the city.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
From backpackers to luxury holidaymakers, the standard first port of call in Australia is usually Sydney, with its bright lights and big city feel. But it is Melbourne that is usually the place that makes people not want to leave the wonders of Down Under. This cosmopolitan Victoria city, with its European vibe, trendy coffee shops, green spaces, and friendly nature, can feel a little bit more easy going than its better-known cousin up the coast in New South Wales. The first thing anyone should do to get acquainted with Melbourne is book a sightseeing tour, whether on the Yarra River or through the buzzing laneways. Here are five of the best.
Melbourne: City Sights Discovery Tour
Discover the iconic landmarks, stunning gardens, and vibrant culture of Melbourne with this top-rated and much-loved tour. You’ll be picked up at a central location and transported around some of Melbourne’s best sights by air-conditioned bus. There’s a great mix of things to see, from the serene Royal Botanical Gardens and Shrine of Remembrance to the MCG sports precinct. At the end of the trip there is also a visit to Albert Park, home of the Grand Prix, and St Kilda, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and catch a glimpse of Luna Park. This tour is 3.5 hours long. From €52.87.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Melbourne: Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
For this tour you are taking to the Yarra River, one of Victoria’s iconic waterways. At just an hour long, it’s convenient if time is tight in Melbourne, as well as being a relaxing way to see the city. A live onboard commentary explains the sights that you pass by, including the Eureka Tower, Royal Botanic Gardens and the cultural precinct of Southbank – all with the Melbourne skyline as the backdrop. The boat trip begins and ends at Federation Wharf, which is located in the heart of the city, and snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard. From €18.50.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Small-Group Melbourne Sightseeing Tour with Beach Boxes
This three-hour tour is perfect for anyone visiting Melbourne for the first time, taking in the city’s key attractions with plenty of history thrown in too. You’ll learn about the Town Hall and St Paul’s Cathedral and explore the lively Queen Victoria Market. Then it’s on to Carlton Gardens, a World Heritage Site located on the northeastern edge of the Central Business District, before visiting Brighton Beach to see the famous colourful beach boxes. This is a small group tour so that you won’t miss anything the local guide is saying. There is a selected city hotel pickup Transport by air-conditioned minivan too. From €56.41.
Book at Viator.com
Melbourne Laneways Tour
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
This is another immersive tour into what makes Melbourne tick, this time heading to the city’s unique laneways. A local guide navigates the way through these narrow streets and pedestrian paths that date back to the Victorian era, showing you hidden shops and galleries that are off the beaten track. This is a small group tour so you can move through the laneways at ease like the locals do, with the guide explaining the history, architecture, street art, galleries, shops, interesting stories, as you go. The guides really know their stuff and there is even a coffee stop at a local-favourite cafe too. From €61.57.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Port of Melbourne and Docklands Sightseeing Cruise
This is a wallet-friendly boat trip and a great way to get a feel for Melbourne’s port and Docklands area from the water. It’s just an hour long so ideal for anyone with only a day or two in the city. The boat cruises down the Yarra River toward Hobson’s Bay with commentary about Melbourne’s history as a 19th-century port town. There is a good view of Melbourne’s skyline from a different perspective – don’t forget your camera – and panoramic windows make sure the vista is uninterrupted. There is also a sun deck for outdoor river cruising and tea and coffee available onboard. From €24.09.
Book at Viator.com