Ballarat is a city that offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and adventure. Unlike many tourist spots, it’s packed with stories of gold rush days, haunting tales, and local flavors that truly stand out. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic streets, uncovering ghost stories from a former lunatic asylum, or sampling local gin and food, Ballarat has something for every type of traveler. We particularly love the Alice’s Journeys Walking Tours for their engaging storytelling and deep dive into Daylesford’s local legends, as well as the Sovereign Hill experience for an immersive gold rush adventure. If you’re after something spooky, the J Ward Ghost Tour offers a chilling night walk that’s hard to beat.
For those who love a mix of history, fun, and hands-on activities, the city’s varied tours make it easy to tailor your visit. With options ranging from short city walks to full-day private excursions, you can choose based on your time, budget, and interests. Below, you’ll find a detailed run-down of the 11 best tours in Ballarat, helping you pick the perfect experience for your trip.
Quick Overview
Ballarat’s top tours include historic walking tours, uncovering stories of the gold rush, and unique experiences like ghost hunts and food tastings. You can explore Daylesford’s Italianate gardens with Alice’s Journeys, or learn about the Sovereign Hill gold rush history. For a more intimate look, the Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour offers a glimpse into the city’s hidden laneways and architecture. If spooky stories are your thing, the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour delivers a haunting night walk. For a broader adventure, the Melbourne & Ballarat private tours combine sightseeing with private transport. Want a culinary twist? The Ballarat Foodie and Gin Tour mixes local flavors with distillery visits. Lastly, those craving a comprehensive multi-day trip can opt for the Goldfields 3-Day Tour, exploring beyond Ballarat itself. Check out each experience below for details.
1. Alices Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford 2.30pmFRI 11.30amSAT
Explore the history of Daylesford township and learn about its Italianate and Victorian gardens, architecture, and the communities that shaped it. Alice’s Journeys offers engaging guided walks that include visits to the District Museum and Regional Visitor Center. These tours are perfect if you enjoy storytelling about local women, natural resources, and colorful legends of notorious inhabitants.
At around 1 hour 30 minutes, the tour strikes a balance between depth and pace. Reviewers mention how Daizy’s storytelling makes this a very interesting and informative experience. The tour’s focus on local legends and gardens is ideal for history buffs and garden lovers alike. Priced at $44.82 per person, it offers excellent value for a cultural deep dive. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon of discovery.
Bottom Line: A great introduction to Daylesford’s charm, history, and architecture, especially if you enjoy stories about local women and beautiful gardens.
2. Sovereign Hill: Museum General Admission Ticket
Sovereign Hill is the quintessential gold rush adventure, offering an immersive experience into Victorian-era Australia. Here, you’ll explore underground mines, pan for real gold at Diggings Creek, and enjoy the multi-million-dollar sound-and-light show. The highlight is the chance to walk through a live replica of a 1850s goldfield town, where staff in period costumes demonstrate trades, crafts, and mining techniques.
This ticket provides a full day of activities, making it perfect for families or history enthusiasts eager to relive the gold rush. The underground mining tours are especially popular, and the prospect of panning for genuine gold keeps the experience hands-on. Reviewers note the value in the price of $35, given the extensive array of interactive displays and shows. For a comprehensive look into Ballarat’s gold history, Sovereign Hill remains a top pick.
Bottom Line: An authentic, full-day adventure into Australia’s gold rush era, especially for those who love hands-on activities and historical reenactments.
3. Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour
Discover Ballarat’s hidden stories on this 2-hour 15-minute walking tour. It includes visits to Bakery Hill, where the city’s story begins, and the site of Peter Lalor’s famous Eureka speech. The tour also takes you inside historic buildings like the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and the old Craig’s Hotel, where local tales and intriguing legends are shared.
Rated a perfect 5/5, this tour is praised for its small groups, engaging storytelling, and exclusive access to sites usually closed to the public. The $65.87 price includes a glimpse into the city’s architectural heritage and revolutionary history. Visitors especially enjoy the stop at Craig’s Hotel and hearing stories about the Eureka rebellion. It’s suited for adventurous couples, history buffs, and anyone curious about Ballarat’s lesser-known stories.
Bottom Line: An engaging, insider’s walk through Ballarat’s streets, perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of the city’s past and secret corners.
4. J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour
Step into the eerie world of J Ward, Australia’s former home for the criminally insane, on this 2-hour ghost tour. The guided walk explores the prisoner cells, grave sites, and original buildings like the hanging gallows and kitchen. Rumors of restless spirits and paranormal activity** make this a spine-tingling experience.
Rated 4.5/5, this tour is praised for its atmospheric storytelling and the chance to explore haunted locations with devices that detect spirits. You’ll learn about notorious prisoners like Chopper Read and William Wallace, while hearing tales of supernatural encounters. It’s perfect for those interested in history and paranormal tales, or anyone seeking a spooky night adventure. The $27.84 price provides a lot of haunted bang for your buck.
Bottom Line: A must-do for ghost hunters and history lovers ready for a spooky night tour that taps into Australia’s dark past.
5. Cammino di Hepburn at 4.30pm each Friday
This walking tour offers a cultural journey through Hepburn Springs, highlighting Swiss and Italian heritage. The tour begins at Luccini’s Macaroni Factory, showcasing the area’s unique immigrant history. You’ll explore heritage-listed Italian buildings like the Old Macaroni Factory, dating back to the 1850s, and visit Hotel Bellinzona, an Edwardian-style hotel with a grand history.
Rated 5/5, this tour is perfect for lovers of architecture, food, and cultural stories. The guide explains the significance of murals, heritage buildings, and notable residents like Clara and Victor Zelman. The tour’s small-group format and focus on local stories make it a cozy, informative experience. It’s priced at $44.80, offering a niche but rich cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts wanting an intimate look at Hepburn’s Swiss-Italian roots.
6. Melbourne: Private Ballarat & Sovereign Hill Gold Mine Tours
For those seeking a personalized experience, this private tour offers the chance to explore Ballarat’s gold rush sights with your own guide. The day includes visits to Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, and local artisanal stops like St. Anne’s Winery. Also, enjoy panning for gold and seasonal activities like strawberry and cherry picking.
The tour is ideal for groups wanting flexibility and a tailored itinerary. Priced at $772 for up to 13 people, it offers good value when split among friends or family. You’ll appreciate the customized pace and access to locations often missed on larger tours. Reviewers praise its luxury and flexibility. It’s perfect for those who want a more personalized, in-depth look at Ballarat and surrounds.
Bottom Line: A premium, flexible option for groups wanting a private, comprehensive gold rush experience.
7. Ballarat Foodie and Gin Distillery Tour
Discover Ballarat’s culinary scene on this 2.5-hour tour that combines local food and distillery tastings. The tour kicks off at Ballarat Railway Station with a visit to a secret gin distillery, where you’ll sample craft gins and local cheeses.
Next, explore historic buildings and enjoy scones, jam, and sweet treats at a historic hotel. The experience continues with a visit to an underground bakery and sampling wood-fired pizzas and Asian-inspired dishes—a testament to Ballarat’s multicultural influence during the Gold Rush. The tour ends at the iconic Sip Champagne Bar with a complimentary glass of bubbly.
Rated 5/5, this tour provides an excellent balance of culinary exploration and local stories, making it perfect for food lovers and casual explorers alike. It’s priced at $120.15, offering great value considering the multiple tastings and experiences packed in.
Bottom Line: For those who love good food and local spirits, this tour blends history with a tasty, relaxed afternoon.
8. Ballarat: City Tales Guided Walking Tour + Coffee
This 2.5-hour guided walk takes you through Ballarat’s streets, with stops at historic buildings, the site of the Eureka Stockade speech, and the grand Town Hall. The tour includes exclusive access to the upper levels of the City Hall, where you can see art prints and learn about the city’s gold-era stories.
Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for history lovers and urban explorers. The tour includes a hot drink at a historic hotel and stories about the Gold Rush, making it engaging and insightful. The $57 price makes it accessible, especially for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and local culture in one tour.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, relaxed walk that covers Ballarat’s key sites and stories, plus a cozy drink to finish.
9. Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour
For a full day of sightseeing, this bus tour combines Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens, and the Melbourne Skydeck. You’ll explore floral displays and historic trees at the gardens, then visit Lake Wendouree before heading to Sovereign Hill for another chance to pan for gold and explore underground mines. Finally, the tour concludes with spectacular views of Melbourne from the Skydeck’s 88th floor.
Rated 3/5, this tour offers a comprehensive day but may feel rushed for some. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a big-picture experience with minimal planning. The price is $127.51, reflecting the included transportation and multiple stops. Reviewers mention the long day but appreciate the variety.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see everything in one day but are okay with a busy schedule.
$127.51 per person
10. Ballarat: Vintage Fashion Shopping Tour with Coffee & Bubbly
Step into Ballarat’s fashion past on this 3-hour shopping tour, discovering quirky vintage and antique shops. The tour ends at the 1920s Sip Champagne Bar, where you’ll enjoy a glass of bubbly and a sweet treat. Along the way, you’ll learn about local fashion legends and explore some of the city’s most interesting laneways.
While there are no specific reviews, the focus on fashion history and culinary treats makes it perfect for style enthusiasts or those seeking a leisurely afternoon. The $97 price includes coffee, bubbly, and shopping—a fun, relaxed way to spend an afternoon in Ballarat.
Bottom Line: Ideal for vintage lovers and style explorers who want a mix of shopping, stories, and bubbles.
$97 per person
11. Goldfields 3 Day Ballarat and Clunes
For travelers with time and a love for deep exploration, this three-day experience takes you beyond the city. It includes visits to Victorian-era buildings, underground goldmines, and scenic ** lakeside picnics**. Highlights include rare inside access to goldfield buildings and underground mine tours. The itinerary offers relaxed pacing with time to reflect and enjoy local cuisine.
Priced at $1,143.58 per person, it’s a significant investment but provides a comprehensive, immersive experience. Perfect for history lovers who want to connect deeply with the region’s stories and architecture. Because it’s a multi-day experience, booking early is recommended.
Bottom Line: For those wanting the most detailed and relaxed Goldfields experience, this is a comprehensive way to spend three days exploring Ballarat and Clunes.
$1,143.58 per person
How to Choose Your Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If your focus is on history and architecture, the Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour offers a deep dive. For gold rush adventures and interactive fun, Sovereign Hill is unbeatable. When it’s spooky stories you seek, the J Ward Ghost Tour delivers haunted thrills, while the Foodie and Gin Tour is perfect for those who love local flavors. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Sovereign Hill general admission or the Alice’s Journeys tour for a shorter, affordable experience.
For a fully personalized experience, the Private Gold Mine Tours are a great choice. If you’re pressed for time but want it all, the Sovereign Hill and Botanical Gardens bus packs a lot into one day.
Final thoughts
Ballarat’s tours offer a wide spectrum of experiences—from historic walking tours and gold rush adventures to ghost hunts and culinary explorations. For a taste of genuine Australian history, Sovereign Hill is a standout. If you prefer storytelling and uncovering local secrets, the Ballarat City Tales is a charming choice. For those seeking a spooky thrill, J Ward’s ghost tour is not to miss.
Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out. These tours highlight Ballarat’s vibrant past and lively culture—making it well worth planning ahead for your trip.