4.9 Stars / 468 Reviews

History is better with a drink in hand

Melbourne’s only walking tours specialising in hidden bars and history.

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Loved By These Publications

Loved by these publications

 

Smart like a walking tour.

Fun like a bar tour.

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  • Discover Hidden Bars

    Visit some of the coolest laneway and hidden bars in Melbourne.

  • Unravel Melbourne's History

    Discover the untold stories & characters that make Melbourne unique.

  • Explore Iconic Sites

    Explore Melbourne’s iconic laneways and landmarks such as Old Treasury, Chinatown and the Queen Victoria Markets.

A Tour for Any Occasion

  • Friends In Town

    Let us play tour guide and enjoy a memorable day out.

  • New To Melbourne

    The best of Melbourne’s bars, history and laneways in one brilliant experience.

  • City Day Out

    Grab your friends and make your big day in the City one to remember.

Reviews From Our Happy Customers

Reviews From Our Happy Customers

Our Melbourne Hidden Bar Tours

Future Tour Dates


Looking for something private? 

Grab the gang and book a private walking tour of Melbourne. Personalised routes, private tour hosts and an experience you won’t forget.

CONTACT THE BOSS!

Welcome to Drinking History Tours

We made Timeout Melbourne’s list!

No. 49 on “Things To Do In Melbourne Before You Die”.

READ THE FULL LIST!

View Our Melbourne Bar Tours Guide

  • Homepage Guides – Best Laneway Bars

    Melbourne’s Best Laneway Bars

    From Melbourne’s first illegal grog shops in 1854, we have always loved a hidden bar down a deserted alley. Here are the best hidden laneway bars first time visitors to Melbourne should check out.

    Melbourne Laneway Bar Guide!
  • Homepage Guides – Best Rooftop Bars

    Brews With A View: Rooftop Bar Guide

    The first attempt to marry views with drinks was back in 1970, when the ‘Top Of The Town” opened to much fanfare on Collins Street. Here are five rooftop bars all first time visitors to Melbourne should visit.

    Melbourne Rooftop Bar Guide
  • Homepage Guides – Best Cocktail Bars

    Your Cocktail Bar Bucket List

    Melbourne’s first cocktail bar was Cafe De Paris, opened in King Street in 1859 and the place for a Sherry Cobbler.  Melbourne’s cocktail bars are classy, unique and numerous: here are our five of our favourites.

    Melbourne Cocktail Bar Guide
MORE BAR GUIDES

Where to start your Melbourne journey 

We’ve collected Melbourne’s coolest things to do – from rally car training to perfecting your coffee game.

READ THE MELBOURNE GUIDE

 Join Us For An Unforgettable Walking Tour Of Melbourne

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Melbourne’s thriving bar scene with one of our hidden bar tours in Melbourne.

Delve into the city’s rich drinking history as we lead you to tucked-away speakeasys and down hidden laneways.

Still got questions? See below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bars will I get to visit?

From hidden bars in high-rise buildings to Melbourne’s iconic laneway bar scene, there are so many incredible bars throughout the city. We have a wide selection of bars we tour, but change up the bars we visit regularly so there’s always something different to see. This way it doesn’t matter when you book, you’re always guaranteed a unique and unforgettable experience.

What is a walking tour?

You might have guessed from the name, but our Melbourne walking tours involve a look at some of the city’s most iconic historical sites and great bars. The entire walking tour is on foot, so make sure to wear your walking shoes!

Do you do private tours?

For sure! You’ll find all the information you need to book a private tour on our private tours page. Our Melbourne walking tours are great for birthday parties, corporate events, or just getting together with friends for a fun night out.

Can I choose my tour guide?

If you’ve taken our tours before and would like to request a specific guide, you can book a private tour and place your request in your message. If they’re available for your booking we’re sure they’ll be more than happy to take you on a drinking history tour.

How much walking is involved?

Not as much as you’d think for something called a walking tour! Generally, there’s only about a 10-minute walk between bars and historic sites, but this will depend on the tour you’ve chosen.

How long does a tour last?

Our tours last for about three hours, all up, although they can go for up to four hours if we have delays or if everyone is just having a really swell time! That includes about two hours of walking and one hour of socialising/bar visits. During that time you’ll visit three of the city’s best bars, with 30-40 minutes at each bar to try some delicious cocktails and really soak up the atmosphere.

Of course, we finish our tour at the final bar, so you’re welcome to stick around there for as long as you want!

Does the tour include food?

No food is included on the tours. We recommend you eat lunch or dinner before coming on the tour!

What safeguards are in place to guarantee tour participants’ comfort and safety?

Our first goal is to make sure guests on our walking tours of Melbourne are comfortable and safe. We monitor local conditions and adhere to rules for safety. If you have questions or need accommodations, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to assist.