It's amazing how long you can live in a city without actually venturing out and exploring all the interesting little alleyways and hidden corners. Taking a tour may seem like something only a tourist would do, however it's a great way to discover your own city with fresh eyes.
Here's a random selection of tours around Melbourne that will have you wondering "how did I not know about that?!", and they're also a great way to pass a lazy Saturday afternoon with a few inquisitive friends.
1.
Real Melbourne Bike Tours
Fill your water bottle and strap your helmet on tight. There's no better way to explore our wonderful city than on two wheels. Real Melbourne Bike Tours offer a "riding history lesson" as you explore Melbourne's streets, parks, shops, cafes and hidden lanes with an experienced tour guide. Sample gourmet treats and experience real Melbourne hospitality, stop for lunch in "Little Italy" or have fish and chips on St Kilda Beach. Great for the environment, great for the kids, and a great way to get in some extra exercise. Tours depart daily from
Federation Square and run from 10am-2pm Bookings are essential.
Adults: $99 Children: $79 (Includes tour, coffee and cakes in "Little Italy" and lunch)
2.
Melbourne Sports Tours
Melburnians do love their sport, and our fair city isn't "the sports capital of Australia" for nothing. Melbourne Sports Tours offer private and group tours, in full-day and half-day packages for sports fanatics,with a variety of tour options. Go on the "AFL for beginners tour" and see what happens behind the scenes at the
MCG and
Rod Laver Arena; or enjoy a glass of cold brew while watching the trots. Check out their website for more information on the tours they offer. Bookings are essential.
3.
Melbourne Shopping Tours
Ladies, this one's for you. Put your comfy shoes on and get ready to give your pocketbook a workout - we're going bargain hunting. Shopping tours are a great way to shop. Enjoy being driven around on a bus with professional and friendly hosts, meet new friends (or bring your own) and save up to 55% on the RRP of lush goods.Tour prices vary, so check out their website for booking options.
4.
Walk To Art
You don't need to be an expert to enjoy this one. Art is in the eye of the beholder, as it were. Walk To Art is the brainchild of Fine Arts graduate Bernadette Alibrando, who first came up with the idea of a walking art tour while living in New York City. She then brought the idea to Melbourne to attempt to "break down the barriers" and give the curious layman an introduction to the art world. Visit galleries and laneways in the CBD and surrounding suburbs, chat with and learn from art dealers and creators, and take home a goodie bag filled with magazines and membership discounts for art-related venues.
Tours operate on Saturdays and Wednesdays for three hours at a time, with groups of a minimum of two and a maximum of eight during rain, hail or shine.
5.
Chocolate Tours
Chocoholics beware: the following information may tease, taunt and tantalize you. Since 1995, Melbourne natives have been leading chocolate lovers on a journey sweeter than any other. Discover the city's streets, lanes and arcades, learn about the history of chocolate and indulge in scrumptious chocolate tasting sessions. Regular tours are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays and are approximately 1.5-2 hours in duration. Visit their website for tour start times and booking information.
