Melbourne's Local Laneway Bars and Stories - Includes a Drink

537 Reviews |

Recommended by 99% of reviewers

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Badge of Excellence | Melbourne, Australia

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3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

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Offered in: English

Overview

Step into Melbourne's enduring bar culture through genuine connections with the spaces and people who've shaped it. This isn't about chasing the latest hotspot—it's about experiencing four time-tested venues where skilled bartenders treat their craft as an art form and our guides are welcomed as familiar faces.

Each establishment represents Melbourne's evolution from gold rush settlement to cultural capital, with each venue telling its own story of transformation and reinvention. Whether you're a Melbourne resident who's stuck to familiar territory or a returning visitor seeking substance over spectacle, this tour reveals the stories behind the spaces that define the city's renowned hospitality scene.

Your four venues are thoughtfully chosen daily from our trusted network—from heritage conversion spaces in former warehouses to intimate laneway venues that epitomize Melbourne's small-bar culture.

First drink is included, plus this is the only Melbourne bar tour running every day.

What's Included

First drink at the opening venue
Personalized venue recommendations and custom map
Access to four carefully selected premium venues
Genuine small group experience (maximum 12 people)
Expert local guide with established industry relationships

Additional drinks at venues
Food
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities

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Meeting Location

Meeting point

108 Spring Street
East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

113 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Located in established laneway district with easy onward access Walking distance to Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, Southern Cross Station Easy access to city accommodation and continuing evening plans

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.

Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Beneath Driver Lane

Exclusive basement barNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Whisky Den

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Above Board

Melbourne's best secret barNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Madame Brussels

Incredible rooftop barNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Jungle Boy

Secret barNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

New Gold Mountain

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Bodega Underground

Tequila and mezcalNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Naked For Satan

Amazing rooftop bar a stone's throw from the CBDNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Eau De Vie Melbourne

One of Melbourne's most famous secret speakeasiesNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ponyfish Island

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Croft Institute

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Curtin House

One of Melbourne's most expansive rooftop barsNOTE: 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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Music Room

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Little Lon Distilling Co.

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Whitehart Lane

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Mill Place Merchants

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Dom's Social Club

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Union Electric Bar

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Seamstress Restaurant and Bar

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.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
Operated by a business

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Melbourne’s Local Laneway Bars and Stories – Includes a Drink?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-46516P5

Traveler Photos

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Reviews

4.92

537 reviews

Average 4.92 out of 5 stars based on 537 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars

507

4 stars

22

3 stars

4

2 stars

3

1 star

1

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Last Minute Availability

Accessible Melbourne Tours & Activities

Places Nearby Melbourne

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Destinations customers.

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Melbourne’s Local Laneway Bars and Stories – Includes a Drink?

A:

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).
This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Apr 2025

Q: What's included in the price?

A:

The following is included:

First drink at the opening venue.
Personalized venue recommendations and custom map.
Access to four carefully selected premium venues.
Genuine small group experience (maximum 12 people).
Expert local guide with established industry relationships.

The following is NOT included:

Additional drinks at venues.
Food.
Hotel pickup and drop-off.
Gratuities.

Apr 2025

Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?

A:

The minimum age to participate is 18..

Apr 2025

Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?

A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025

Q: Is this an accessible tour?

A:

Accessibility information for the Melbourne's Local Laneway Bars and Stories - Includes a Drink is as follows:

Wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Apr 2025

Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?

A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Melbourne’s Local Laneway Bars and Stories – Includes a Drink will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Destinations. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

Mar 2024