Getting to know Melbourne’s history is easy with these engaging walking tours. The “Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops” tour brings alive the city’s rough-and-tumble 19th-century past, while the “Aboriginal Heritage Walk” through the Royal Botanic Gardens connects visitors with indigenous culture and traditions. Architecture buffs will appreciate the “Melbourne’s Oldest Buildings” tour, which highlights the city’s well-preserved Victorian structures.

My favorite experiences include the evening “Booze and History Tour,” combining social history with stops at historic pubs, and the “History and Donuts Walking Tour,” which mixes sweet treats with tales of Melbourne’s famous laneways. These outings blend education with fun, making history accessible to everyone.

Let’s explore Melbourne’s most worthwhile historical tours.

Good To Know

Based on the provided background information, here are 5 key points that highlight the best historical tours in Melbourne:

  • The Melbourne Historical Walking Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of the city’s gangster history from the 1870s to 1930s, featuring notable figures and locations.
  • The Aboriginal Heritage Walk at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria provides a fully hosted educational experience with knowledgeable guides and complementary Lemon Myrtle tea.
  • The History and Donuts Walking Tour combines a 4-hour laneway exploration with complimentary coffee and donuts, catering to a maximum group size of 10 people.
  • The Afternoon in Melbourne: Booze and History Tour is a 3-hour bar-hopping experience that blends historical insights with social activities, led by an English-speaking local guide.
  • The Melbourne’s Oldest Buildings: Historic Walking Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of the city’s architectural heritage, featuring iconic landmarks and providing complimentary refreshments and a historic photo booklet.

Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops

Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops

Tucked away in the heart of downtown Melbourne, the “Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops” takes participants on a captivating journey through the city’s seedy underbelly from the 1870s to the 1930s.

Led by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide Michael, the 2-hour walking tour explores the gangster-filled past of Lonsdale Street, revealing the former brothels and speakeasies that once operated in the area.

Guests learn about notorious figures like Squizzy Taylor and the notorious slum of ‘Little Lon,’ as well as how lolly shops were used as fronts for drug operations.

With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an entertaining and informative look at Melbourne’s hidden history.

Read our full review: Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops Review
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Aboriginal Heritage Walk – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens

Aboriginal Heritage Walk - Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens

Nestled within the lush expanse of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria in Melbourne, the Aboriginal Heritage Walk offers visitors a captivating exploration of the area’s rich Indigenous history and connection to the land.

Led by knowledgeable guides, this fully hosted experience provides a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of the gardens. Guests are treated to Lemon Myrtle tea, hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation to the meeting point, making it a convenient and immersive outing.

With a maximum of 25 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews, the Aboriginal Heritage Walk is a must for those seeking an educational and respectful glimpse into Melbourne’s Indigenous heritage.

Read our full review: Aboriginal Heritage Walk – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens Review
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History and Donuts Walking Tour

History and Donuts Walking Tour

Where can visitors to Melbourne enjoy the city’s rich history while indulging in delectable donuts? The History and Donuts Walking Tour is the perfect choice.

This highly-rated 4-hour tour takes guests through Melbourne’s laneways, exploring its past, from slums to red-light districts. Along the way, travelers enjoy complimentary coffee and donuts at two stops.

With a maximum of 10 people, the small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour departs from Federation Square and ends at the State Library Victoria.

Costing from $56.77 per person, this walking tour is a must for those who appreciate Melbourne’s history and love a good donut.

Read our full review: History and Donuts Walking Tour Review
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Afternoon in Melbourne: Booze and History Tour

Afternoon in Melbourne: Booze and History Tour

Travelers seeking to uncover Melbourne’s storied past and indulge in the city’s vibrant bar scene can embark on the Afternoon in Melbourne: Hidden Bars and History Tour.

This 3-hour experience takes guests on a journey through the city’s unique bar culture, visiting three hidden establishments known only to locals.

Along the way, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide shares insights into Melbourne’s history, offering tips on additional attractions, dining, and activities.

Priced at ₹2,780.40 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and departs at 3:00 PM from the city center.

With a 5.0 rating based on 66 reviews, the tour offers a blend of sightseeing, history, and socializing, making it a must-do for those eager to enjoy Melbourne’s rich heritage and lively bar scene.

Read our full review: Afternoon in Melbourne: Booze and History Tour Review
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Afternoon in Melbourne: Private Booze and History Tour

Afternoon in Melbourne: Private Booze and History Tour

For those seeking a more personalized exploration of Melbourne’s captivating bar culture and rich history, the Afternoon in Melbourne: Private Booze and History Tour offers an immersive experience.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, guests embark on a 3-hour journey, visiting at least three unique bars and small-batch distilleries. The tour encompasses options such as Chinatown and the Little Lon gin distillery, providing an insider’s perspective on Melbourne’s vibrant bar scene.

With a carbon-neutral operation and B Corp certification, this private tour ensures attentive service and the discovery of hidden gems known only to locals.

Suitable for travelers 18 and older, the experience can be easily accessed via public transportation within the free tram zone.

Read our full review: Afternoon in Melbourne: Private Booze and History Tour Review
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Melbournes Oldest Buildings: Historic Walking Tour

Melbournes Oldest Buildings: Historic Walking Tour

Enjoy the captivating history of Melbourne’s oldest buildings during the “Step Back in Time: Exploring Early Melbourne” walking tour.

This 2-hour experience takes you on a journey through the city’s past, visiting iconic landmarks like the St James’ Old Cathedral and the Mitre Tavern.

Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll uncover the stories behind these historic structures and gain a deeper appreciation for Melbourne’s architectural heritage.

Along the way, enjoy complimentary coffee or tea and a booklet filled with historic photos.

With a maximum group size of 10, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Melbourne’s past, this tour isn’t to be missed.

Read our full review: Melbournes Oldest Buildings: Historic Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?

Many historical tours in Melbourne offer wheelchair accessibility, with designated routes, ramps, and elevators to ensure all visitors can fully experience the city’s rich heritage. However, it’s best to check specific tour details before booking to ensure they meet individual accessibility needs.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Tours?

Most historical tour companies don’t allow dogs on their tours, as they can disrupt the experience for other participants. However, some may make exceptions for service animals with proper documentation. It’s best to check with the tour operator before booking.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

Many tour operators offer discounts for seniors and students. Rates may vary, so it’s best to check with each provider directly. Some providers may also have family or group discounts available to make the tours more accessible.

How Long Do the Tours Typically Last?

The tours typically last between 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the specific tour and the amount of content covered. Many operators offer discounted rates for seniors and students to make the experiences more accessible.

Are the Tours Available in Multiple Languages?

Many historical tour companies offer tours in multiple languages to accommodate a diverse range of visitors. Guests can typically choose from languages like English, Mandarin, Japanese, and Spanish, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

Melbourne’s historical tours offer a rich tapestry of the city’s past. From crime-ridden laneways to Aboriginal heritage, these guided experiences immerse visitors in Melbourne’s captivating history. Whether one’s interest lies in architecture, booze, or donut-fueled explorations, there’s a tour to suit every taste. These comprehensive outings provide an authoritative and engaging way to uncover the city’s fascinating stories and landmarks, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation of Melbourne’s vibrant heritage.