13 Free Walking Tours of Melbourne Attractions
Explore some of the city’s most fascinating attractions with my list of the best genuinely free walking tours Melbourne has to offer.
With expert tour guides and easy accessibility, these guided walking tours explore some of Melbourne’s most beloved historical spots, and you will not be asked to pay a cent.
The list continues with several free self-guided tours, to further immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Melbourne without spending a dime.
Find a Guided Free walking tour Melbourne
1. Melbourne Town Hall Tour
Step back in time and uncover the rich history of Melbourne Town Hall with a free walking tour. From its stunning architecture to its storied past, you’ll be captivated by tales of Melbourne’s civic life as you wander through this iconic building.
Read about our visit to Melbourne Town Hall.
Tours must be booked online and run every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (except public holidays). Book here.
2. NGV International Collections Highlights Tour
Immerse yourself in the world of art with a free highlights tour of the National Gallery of Victoria International. Marvel at masterpieces from around the globe as your knowledgeable guide leads you on a journey through the gallery’s most iconic works.
We highly recommend seeing the Pharaoh exhibition on now at NGV until 6 October 2024.
Read about our visit to NGV International.
Tours run daily. No booking is required. View here.
3. The State Library History Tour
Delve into the past with a free history tour of the State Library of Victoria. Discover the fascinating stories behind this architectural gem and explore its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and artefacts that document Victoria’s rich heritage.
Read about our experience on the State Library History Tour.
Tours run almost daily. Bookings can be made online. View here.
I have decided I love guided tours. They are so informative and give me a deeper knowledge and appreciation for all the wonderful parts of the city that I have been totally ignorant about and most likely would never visit on my own wanderings.
– Terrie
4. Parliament House Free Guided Tour
Take a glimpse into the heart of Victorian democracy with a free guided tour of Parliament House. Explore the historic chambers, majestic architecture, and learn about the inner workings of Australia’s oldest continuous Parliament.
Read about our visit to Parliament House for an exquisite High Tea and guided tour combo!
Tours run Monday to Friday. Bookings can be made online. View here.
5. Royal Botanic Gardens Free Guided Walk
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Join a free walking tour and explore the garden’s lush landscapes, diverse flora, and hidden gems. Read about our recent visit.
Tours run daily, except for Mondays. Bookings can be made online or in person at the Visitor Centre.
More related reading: The Explorer – A Melbourne Botanical Gardens Tour By Minibus
6. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia Collection Highlights Tour
Discover the best Australian art with a free highlights tour of the Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia. From Indigenous art to contemporary masterpieces, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and creativity of Australian artists on this must-do Melbourne walking tour.
Read about our recent experience at NGV Australia here.
Tours run daily. No booking is required. View here.
I’ve always loved the NGV, but was unaware of the guided tours until I read about them on your site. So I took advantage of this new knowledge when visiting Melbourne last week – it was so interesting! Definitely something to be squeezed in to every visit to Melbourne.
– Christine
7. City of Melbourne Art and Heritage Collection Tour
Uncover the hidden gems of Melbourne at the City Collection, a captivating ensemble of 13,000 artefacts that reflect the city’s soul and spirit. On a free walking tour, wander through a world of contrasts, where contemporary artworks meet historical memorabilia.
Read about our experience on the City Collection Tour.
Tours run on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Bookings must be made online.
8. Dome to Catacombs Tour
Uncover the rich history of Australia’s oldest public library on the Dome to Catacombs free walking tour at State Library Victoria. Delve into the architectural marvels of this iconic institution, from the soaring heights of the Dome in the La Trobe Reading Room to the hidden catacombs below.
Tours run almost daily. Bookings must be made online.
Find a self-guided free walking tour Melbourne
9. Shrine of Remembrance Self-Guided Tour
Pay tribute to Australia’s servicemen and women with a self-guided tour of the Shrine of Remembrance. Explore the hallowed grounds, intricate architecture, and poignant memorials that commemorate the sacrifices of generations past.
Read about our visit to the Shrine.
Open daily. Pick up a free self-guided brochure at the information desk upon entry.
10. St Paul’s Cathedral Self-Guided Tour
Step inside the majestic St Paul’s Cathedral and embark on a self-guided tour of this iconic landmark. Marvel at the grandeur of its Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and serene atmosphere as you discover the spiritual heart of Melbourne.
Open daily. Pick up an information guide or speak to one of the friendly volunteers upon entry.
Read our insights on visiting St Paul’s Cathedral.
11. Koorie Heritage Trust Self-Guided Gallery Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Victoria’s First Nations people with a self-guided tour of the Koorie Heritage Trust. Explore thought-provoking artworks that celebrate Indigenous history and contemporary culture.
Read about our visit to Koorie Heritage Trust.
Open daily. Pick up an information guide or speak to one of the friendly team members at the information desk upon entry.
12. Fitzroy Gardens Self-Guided Walk
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and wander through the tranquil Fitzroy Gardens on a self-guided walk. Discover hidden nooks, playful fountains, and lush greenery.
Read about our recent exploration of the gardens.
Open daily. Pick up a self-guided tour brochure at the Visitor Centre or download a PDF copy here.
13. City Circle Tram Self-Guided Tour
Hop aboard the iconic City Circle Tram and embark on a self-guided tour of Melbourne’s landmarks and attractions. Sit back, relax, and take in the sights as you journey through the city streets, with informative audio commentary to guide you along the way.
Read about our experience on the City Circle Tram.
Operates daily between 10 am – 6 pm. Note that the tram is not wheelchair accessible.
I hope this post has inspired you to get out and explore Melbourne! Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to find out more ways to discover (or rediscover) the joy of exploring Melbourne.
