Free tours of iconic Melbourne places

Discover hidden gems, iconic buildings and beautiful gardens on these free guided tours.

Two women walking through a cactus garden

Melbourne’s famous National Gallery of Victoria has a bunch of tours that won’t cost you a cent. Explore highlights of the huge international collection with a volunteer guide. Or join an insightful guided talk all about women in art including the artist behind the giant yellow pumpkin sculpture in the foyer. And there's even a limited-time tour all about paintings, sculpture and textiles from Italy.

A giant yellow pumpkin sculpture
National Gallery of Victoria
A tour group is walking through a gallery of paintings
National Gallery of Victoria

Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio

Calling all electronic music buffs. Get rare access to Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio’s impressive instrument collection on its free guided tour. Led by a rotating roster of artists, MESS co-founders and studio supervisors, you’ll hear insider stories on vintage technology, the history of synthesisers and more. You’ll even get the chance to have a play and experiment with the equipment.  

The State Library

The State Library has emerged from a major renovation. Take a free history of the library tour to see what's new. You'll visit galleries, the Ian Potter Queens Hall and the heritage reading rooms, where you can stop to browse the endless books. Aussie history buffs will love the new display of Ned Kelly’s armour, alongside his manifesto, the Jerilderie letter.

A family is in the dome at the State Library of Victoria
State Library Victoria
A family is walking through a corridor at State Library Victoria
State Library Victoria
A family is walking outside the State Library Victoria
State Library Victoria

Parliament House

Head to the 19th century on a public tour of Parliament House. Think Gold Rush-era marble, chandeliers and polished wood. See inside the parliamentary chambers, take a seat in a Member of Parliament's chair and say hello to the statue of Queen Victoria. There are three tours every weekday, except when Parliament is sitting.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover Melbourne’s vibrant Royal Botanic Gardens on a free guided walking tour. Discover natural flora and fauna as you wander through rolling landscapes, towering trees and glittering lakes. The sessions run for one hour and 30 minutes every day except Mondays.

Two friends are at a fern garden one is in a wheelchair the other is walking
Royal Botanic Gardens
A person is walking through a cactus garden
Royal Botanic Gardens

Melbourne Town Hall Tours

Take a free guided tour of one of the city's most iconic buildings, Melbourne Town Hall. Learn about the building's unique history as you visit the Grand Council Chambers and stand in rooms once visited by royalty. You may even get to stand on the Portico Balcony where the Beatles stood in 1964, waving to thousands of screaming fans below.

More self-guided tours

A couple standing in front of the Royal Exhibition Building, surrounded by trees.

Walks and itineraries

These self-guided walks and itineraries will help you discover Melbourne's best sights.

Bronze statue of Pastor Sir Douglas and Lady Nicholls.

Aboriginal Melbourne walk

Discover Melbourne's Aboriginal heritage and culture on this walking tour of significant sites.

Empty park benches next to a pond at dusk.

Secret gardens and majestic parks

Take a walk through Melbourne’s lush parks and gardens.

Egg yolk pouring out of a long sub sandwich with cheese and salad.
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Gourmet Sandwich Hunt

Elevate your sandwich style with celebrity chef Darren Purchese.

More Melbourne walking adventures

Group of people on a walking tour of Melbourne.

Hidden Secrets Tours

Indulge and discover the city's hidden charm with Melbourne's original laneway walking tours.

Tour guide talking to a crowd of people with Melbourne city skyline in the background.

Melbourne Sights Walking Tour

Uncover the stories behind Melbourne's landmarks, gardens and events on this walking tour.

A tour group gathered in front of a green neon 'Melbourne' sign, all laughing and enjoying themselves in a huddle.
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The Complete Melbourne Walking Tour

Uncover the best of Melbourne's laneways, history and more in this three hour walking experience.

Three people standing on a street corner as a tram passes by

The ultimate guide to walking tours in Melbourne

Guided tours that weave through Melbourne's hidden gems, foodie spots and street art.

Last updated on Mon 24 Aug 2026

Only In The City

Only in the City
Inside a bustling market hall

Things you can only see in the city

Uncover secret rooms, historic architecture and iconic landmarks found only in the city.

A family of four standing in a grand library with antique desks, large white walls and a dome ceiling.

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

Multiple plates on a white table cloth.

Things you can only eat in the city

Where to find the city's most iconic dishes.

Discover more

Two people riding bikes along the Yarra River.

Southbank and Docklands by bike

Cycle along Melbourne's iconic Yarra River to discover art installations and maritime history.

Two people walking through a laneway covered in street art.

Street art walk

See Melbourne’s world-renowned street art on this walk through the city's laneways.

Two people walking along a pathway in Fitzroy Gardens.

Fitzroy Gardens walk

If you’re looking for an iconic Melbourne garden walk, this is an excellent place to start

Brightly coloured statue by the waterfront.

Yarra River discovery walk

Take a walk along Melbourne's vibrant waterfront to discover history, art and culture.