Magpie
4.9(550 reviews)

Melbourne Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Laneway Bars

FromA$89
3 hours
Commentary: Guide · en

About this activity

Discover Melbourne's hidden laneways and secret bars on a guided 3-hour tour, delving into the city's rich bar history and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights

  • Explore Melbourne's hidden laneways
  • Discover unique, secret bars
  • Learn about the city's rich bar history
  • Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails
  • Experience Melbourne's vibrant nightlife

Full description

Join a local guide and discover 4 hidden bars in 3 hours. Get access to drink specials available only for our groups. Meet local bartenders and bar owners and hear about what makes them passionate. Get a special, customised map with recommendations for other bars to visit in Melbourne. Whatever you do, come thirsty!  NOTE: The bar list below is indicative only — WE DO NOT VISIT ALL BARS LISTED. The tour includes 4 bars picked from a rotating list of 3 dozen. Which bars we visits depends on our group size, day of the week and special events.

Included / Excluded

  • Customised map of more bars to explore
  • Drink specials
  • Small group tour with a maximum of 12 participants
  • Local, English-speaking guide
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

1

Exclusive basement bar NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Melbourne's least pretentious whisky bar. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Melbourne's best secret bar NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Incredible rooftop bar NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Secret bar NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Secret bar listed only by a sign with a bicycle. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. The bar itinerary changes daily and the listed bars are intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Tequila and mezcal NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Amazing rooftop bar a stone's throw from the CBD NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

One of Melbourne's most famous secret speakeasies NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10

So close to the water, you can high-five passing crew teams. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11

A truly back-alley bar with cocktails injected with syringes (it looks cooler than it sounds) NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12

One of Melbourne's most expansive rooftop bars NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
13

Atmospheric space where skilled bartenders create cocktails alongside curated entertainment. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
14

Heritage precinct venue showcasing Melbourne's layered history through drinks and stories. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
15

Intimate bar where craft cocktails meet local hospitality traditions. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
16

Multi-level venue where different floors offer distinct drinking experiences. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
17

Established gathering place where bartenders know their craft and their community. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
18

Industrial-inspired space showcasing local brewing and distilling craftsmanship. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
19

Established cocktail lounge known for skilled bartenders and neighborhood character. NOTE: Bars listed are indicative of the types of venues visited. Tour includes 4 bars in total and this list is intended to give a sense of the style of bars we visit.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; dress accordingly.
  • Minimum booking requirements may apply; check availability.
  • Tour involves moderate walking; consider your fitness level.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
  • Dress appropriately for Melbourne's variable weather conditions.
  • Bring a valid ID for age verification at bars.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • Minimum age is 18 years
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • A maximum of 12 people per booking
  • Please advise any accessibility needs at least 24 hours before tour start date

Traveler reviews

4.9
550 reviews
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Must do in Melbourne

My wife and I did the Tour with Hugo this week and highly recommend anyone visiting to make this a priority early in your stay . Hugo took us to some great bars and shared some interesting facts regarding the ones we attended but also shared tips along the way regarding restaurants and other local tips . As Melbourne has a lot of hidden bars and restaurants this tour is a must for people like us who are new to the city wishing to visit the best bars in a short stay . Thanks Hugo for a fabulous time

Jack123AustraliaMay 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great experience!

This is a great way to see Melbourne’s funky little places that are a bit more off the tourist track. John was so friendly and filled us in on some local history along the way. Thoroughly recommend this tour.

547clarksMay 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Simon was super...

Simon was super knowledgeable of the local area and took us to places I’d never find on my own. Highly recommended!

Michael_HApr 11, 2026VIATOR

Discovering hidden Melbourne watering holes

Great way to hit pubs/bars/etc you would most likely never find by yourself (or ever). More of a really, really nice bar crawl than a history/sightseeing tour, but exactly up my alley. Great guide in Hugo & really lucky to have had great people I met on the tour, especially since there was only 4 of us.

Alexander_BMar 31, 2026VIATOR

Love, love, loved it!

What a fantastic day out in the warm sun. Beau was fun, witty and welcoming. It was a small group so he asked what we liked and lined up some great bars to try out. Was like an evening with friends. We did the Whitehart, Caretaker’s Cottage, Whiskey and Alement, and Drivers Lane. But you don’t need to go by any list. Trust these guys for little gems across CBD.

srujanipFeb 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Minimum age is 18 years Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately A maximum of 12 people per booking
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