Melbourne: City`s History and Unique Bar Scene Tour

Melbourne’s past and its bar culture share the same narrow streets. This three-hour walk links the city’s Parliamentary precinct, gold-rush stories and old red-light district with tucked-away drinking spots, including a speakeasy-style bar and a rooftop stop.

I like two things about the plan: the guide connects the city’s Indigenous roots to its later history, and a small group of no more than 12 makes it easier to ask questions and get personal recommendations. Guides have included Tristan, whose interests in the group and pace of the walk helped shape the afternoon.

One thing to budget for: drinks and food are not included in the $148 per person price. You choose what to order, which gives you flexibility, but the bill can climb if you sample something at every stop.

• Start at the Old Treasury precinct: Hear about the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation and their ongoing connection to the land.
• Walk about 1.5 km: The route is short by city-tour standards, though the pace and exact distance may vary with the group.
• Visit distinctive bars: Expect a mix of laneway, speakeasy-style, rooftop and historic pub settings.
• Hear Melbourne’s less polished stories: Gold-rush fortunes and the city’s red-light past sit alongside its cultural history.
• Allow for extra spending: Drinks and food are pay-as-you-go, not part of the tour fee.

From the Parliamentary precinct to Melbourne’s older stories