Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 558 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included worth booking?
Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included is a 3.5-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $49 per person. It scores 89 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 558 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 89 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (558)
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- From
- $49 per person
Melbourne is one of the world's great bar cities, and this tour shows you exactly why. Let a guide with genuine industry relationships take you to 4 independent, owner-operated bars you would never find on your own. Your guide hand-picks the route each night from a rotating list of hidden speakeasies, rooftop bars, secret cellar doors and laneway institutions, chosen to suit your group, the season and what's currently buzzing in Melbourne's bar scene. No two tours are the same. This tour runs mid to late afternoon, timed as the perfect lead-in to dinner. Bartenders have more time to chat, and bar owners often pop by to introduce their venue personally. Your first drink is included at the opening venue, and you'll leave with a personalised list of recommendations and a custom map. A genuinely small group, capped at 12 guests, with 553 reviews and a 4.9 rating, ahead of any comparable Melbourne bar tour.
What you get
About this experience
Melbourne is one of the world's great bar cities, and this tour shows you exactly why. Let a guide with genuine industry relationships take you to 4 independent, owner-operated bars you would never find on your own. Your guide hand-picks the route each night from a rotating list of hidden speakeasies, rooftop bars, secret cellar doors and laneway institutions, chosen to suit your group, the season and what's currently buzzing in Melbourne's bar scene. No two tours are the same. This tour runs mid to late afternoon, timed as the perfect lead-in to dinner. Bartenders have more time to chat, and bar owners often pop by to introduce their venue personally. Your first drink is included at the opening venue, and you'll leave with a personalised list of recommendations and a custom map. A genuinely small group, capped at 12 guests, with 553 reviews and a 4.9 rating, ahead of any comparable Melbourne bar tour.
What's included
Included
- Personalised venue recommendations and a custom map to take away
- First drink at the opening venue
- Small group, maximum 12 guests
- Expert local guide with established industry relationships across Melbourne's bar scene
- Access to 4 independent, owner-operated venues, hand-picked nightly
Not included
- Additional drinks at venues, beyond the one included
- Food
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Beneath Driver Lane
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.
10 minutes here
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 here
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.
10 minutes here
Madame Brussels
Incredible rooftop bar with city views. 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 here
Secret bar behind a sandwich shop, outdoor beer garden. 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 here
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 here
Tequila and mezcal specialists. 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 here
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.
10 minutes here
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.
10 minutes here
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 here
A truly back-alley bar, cocktails served with a twist and 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 here
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.
10 minutes here
Atmospheric space where skilled bartenders create cocktails alongside curated live 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 here
Little Lon Distilling Co.
Heritage precinct venue in the laneways, 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 here
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 here
Multi-level venue with a different vibe on every floor, offering 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 here
Established local 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 here
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 here
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 here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Melbourne
Starting Point is Gordon Reserve (74-108 Spring St East Melbourne) Gordon Reserve is the small park opposite the Hotel Windsor. Go to the Windsor Hotel. Cross the street to the park with the fountain. Look for your guide with a blue umbrella nearby the fountain.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
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
Options you can book
Private Bar Tour
Private Tour Guide: Take this tour with a private guide, seperate from other guests. Max group size: 4. If group size exceeds 4, contact us.
Premium Package
With Premium Drinks Package: Bar Tour with Premium Drinks Package
Shared Tour
First drink included: The only Melbourne bar tour running every day
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Depot Adventures
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Meeting point is Gordon Reserve, 74-108 Spring Street, East Melbourne, opposite the Hotel Windsor and next to the fountain. Your guide holds a blue umbrella.
- This tour runs mid to late afternoon and is advertised as 3 hours. Most groups reach the final venue just before the 3-hour mark, budget an extra 45 minutes for a last round.
- The tour ends in Melbourne's city centre. The exact finishing venue changes nightly depending on the route.
- Walking between venues is never more than 1 mile, with an occasional 10-minute walk between the furthest-apart stops.
- Closed-toe shoes or sandals recommended. Some venues restrict thongs and flip-flops after a certain hour.
- Minimum age 18.
- Operates in all weather. Please dress appropriately.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 557 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
557 verified traveler reviews for Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An Epic Experience, Highly Reccomend!
We had an amazing Bar tour with John, his Knowledge of the surrounding areas was definitely a highlight! I would definitely go again and it was great value for money.
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic, fun tour
This was a fantastic, fun experience. Hugo, our guide was knowledgeable with fun facts and took us to small laneways bars that he thought best suited us and he was bang on. Returning to Melbourne in 8 weeks and will do it again.
via Viator
Loved the laneways!
Beau was our excellent guide through the laneways of Melbourne. We were the only 2 people on the tour and it was rainy so he ducked us into into cozy, friendly and highly varied places where we could warm up with a drink and great conversation. It was our first few hours in Melbourne and a great introduction to the town. Highly recommend!!!
via Viator
Interactive and Fun Tour
This is our second time on this Tour within the year :-) We did as a couple in December 2025 then decided to take some friends on it in August. Such a fun interactive walking tour round Melbourne CBD. John has a passion for Melbourne and provides so many more tips beyond the places we went on the Tour. Met some fun people and would definitely do again.
Response from the operator: Hi Suz, What a pleasure to have you back again on tour! We also agree that our tours are a lot of fun! Thanks for sharing the fun and value doesn't finish when the tour is over - we love recommending more of our favourite bars and places to go - personalised just for you :)
via Tripadvisor
Great night
Great night. John was awesome and made sure there was something for everyone.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $49 to $600
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 195
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Depot Adventures, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.4 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Depot Adventures runsWhy this scores 89
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.
How much does Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included cost?
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Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Melbourne usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included take?
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Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Melbourne is not rushed.
Is Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 89 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 558 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Around 195 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Melbourne can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Melbourne and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Melbourne within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Melbourne?
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On Outty we rank every Melbourne experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include From Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cider & Chocolate tour, Melbourne: Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch - Gin/Beer Upgrade, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Melbourne?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Melbourne?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Included: Personalised venue recommendations and a custom map to take away; First drink at the opening venue; Small group, maximum 12 guests; Expert local guide with established industry relationships across Melbourne's bar scene; and Access to 4 independent, owner-operated venues, hand-picked nightly. Not included: Additional drinks at venues, beyond the one included; Food; Hotel pickup and drop-off; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Starting Point is Gordon Reserve (74-108 Spring St East Melbourne) Gordon Reserve is the small park opposite the Hotel Windsor. Go to the Windsor Hotel. Cross the street to the park with the fountain. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Melbourne. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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Across 558 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Melbourne Independent Laneway Bar Tour with Drink Included?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Private Bar Tour, Premium Package, Shared Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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