Melbourne City Escape

Welcome to Melbourne, a city that thrives on creativity, diversity, and an undeniable energy. Stroll through its laneways, where vibrant street art and tucked-away cafes create a buzzing atmosphere, or step into historic arcades like the Block Arcade, offering boutique shopping with a touch of old-world charm. The city’s dining scene is legendary, from multicultural precincts like Lygon Street to the bustling Queen Victoria Market, where fresh produce and artisan treats tempt every palate. Outdoors, Melbourne provides riverside walks along the Yarra, the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the beachside vibe of St Kilda. 

Get up close and personal with Australia's cutest furry friends in this exciting day tour to the French Island and Phillip Island. Venture upon the Western Port Ferries to the French Island where you will be taken on a guided 4WD tour and learn about the wildlife that inhabit the island. Jump back on the ferry and island hop to Phillip Island where you will be taken on a short adventure along the Nobbies Boardwalk and view dramatic sea bluffs, ocean views and a furry seal colony. Finish the journey getting up close and personal with the little penguins whilst listening to expert ranger commentary from your premium viewing platform.

Melbourne is the cool, artsy capital of the state of Victoria. Renowned for its laneway art, cafes, bars, restaurants and museums, there is no shortage of things to do, see, eat and drink. Grab a coffee on Degraves Street, see the murals on Hosier Lane or Blender Lane, pop over to St Kilda and stroll along the promenade or visit one of the many museums. For a spot of retail therapy, catch the 86 or 96 tram from the CBD to the bohemian Brunswick Street shopping district for an eclectic mix of second-hand vintage and high-end boutique stores. On the opposite side of the city, the Docklands open-air entertainment precinct boasts a myriad of public artwork, family fun activities such as glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and a variety of dining options lining the marina. Get there easily on the free City Circle tram, or wander over the Bourke Street footbridge. To make the most of your time in Melbourne, we recommend taking a city tour to get true local insight into this vibrant city.

Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Melbourne from the Melbourne Skydeck, located on the 88th floor of the iconic Eureka Tower. From this elevated vantage point, you can admire the city’s stunning skyline, the Yarra River, and a sweeping panorama of the surrounding areas. At Melbourne Skydeck, you’ll discover interactive displays that offer fascinating insights into the city’s history, landmarks, and modern developments. This experience offers a unique and memorable way to see Melbourne from above. It’s the perfect spot for incredible photos and to take in the full scale and beauty of the city. With panoramic views all day and night, you can relax and enjoy all of Melbourne’s legendary views with a delicious snack and cool drink.

Join a local tour guide for a delightful stroll through Melbourne’s famous arcades and secret laneways as you discover the beautiful chocolatiers and pâtissiers tucked away down the back streets of Melbourne sampling chocolates and sweet treats along the way!
Visit five of the most secret chocolatiers and dessert bars in Melbourne. They are all exclusively Australian, and many are unique to Melbourne, all with their unique tastings and experiences. While the specific spots you visit will vary from tour to tour, amazing food and incredible experiences are guaranteed on every tour.

Find your Melbourne hidden bars bar guru (look for their blue umbrella) at Gordon Reserve. After meeting your guide, you’ll get to know your fellow guests who will serve as your new drinking buddies for the new 3 hours (or more!). Your guide will provide all you need to get the best out of the tour and even after you leave. Everything from what makes Melbourne’s bars so unique, where to find our best venues, and what to order. You won’t dally too long though as you have four bars to get to! The venues are all walking distance 5-15 minutes from each other (so comfortable walking shoes are advised) but occasionally the guides will make use of the free trams within the CBD/ city grid.  As your guide traverses you through the famous laneways, you will be shown more points of interest that make Melbourne such a fascinating city and encounter more venues to visit on other occasions (or straight after the tour has ended).

Set off early from Melbourne to beat the crowds and experience the very best of the Great Ocean Road on this small-group tour. Discover iconic landmarks including the 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, and the lush rainforest of Maits Rest. Spot koalas in the wild at Kennett River and explore charming coastal towns with world-famous surf beaches. Enjoy a serene rainforest walk and soak in panoramic ocean views along this scenic drive. Rich in natural beauty and history, this tour blends wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable moments—perfect for those wanting a true taste of Australia’s stunning southern coastline.

Spend the day admiring the Mornington Peninsula on a spectacular sightseeing cruise with Explore Australia Tours. Depart from Melbourne and head south to the London Bridge, an impressive amphitheatre-like rock formation nestled on the Portsea Beach. Board the Searoad Ferry to embark on a 2-hour cruise with a lunch made up of a shared grazing table with local produce and wine. After enjoying the sea breeze and spectacular coastal views of Port Phillip and the Bass Strait, you will be taken to St Andrews Beach Brewery, a converted horse training facility, where you will be invited to a tasting paddle. Then visit Murray's Lookout, the highest point of the Mornington Peninsula where you can admire the stunning views stretching from across the bay to the city. We'll stop for a while at the Peninsula Bathing Boxes, an icon of the Port Phillip Bay. These vibrant boxes nestled on the sand make a fantastic photo opportunity and is the perfect location to end your time on the peninsula.