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The 15 Best Lunch Experiences in Melbourne
Melbourne is a city that takes its food and scenery seriously. Whether you're craving a leisurely lakefront lunch, a gourmet winery meal, or an adventure-packed coastal day, Melbourne’s diverse offerings won't disappoint. We've tested the waters and tasted the wines to bring you a list of the best lunch experiences in town. For example, the 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch stands out because it combines early morning light viewing with a scenic drive and a light lunch — perfect for those who want a stunning, crowd-free experience. If wine and food are more your style, the Yarra Valley wine and gin tour with Champagne lunch at Chandon offers a private, champagne brunch amid vineyards. Whatever your preference, Melbourne's lunch tours promise memorable midday moments.
Quick Overview
Our list features full-day scenic tours, wine tastings, coastal adventures, and river cruises. Some tours focus on nature and wildlife, such as the Great Ocean Road Eco Tour with Lunch, which combines coastal vistas with rainforest walks. Others highlight luxury wine experiences, like the Yarra Valley Wine and Gin Tour with Champagne Lunch, perfect for wine lovers wanting a private and intimate setting. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy shorter cruises or wildlife encounters, while those seeking luxury can opt for helicopter winery lunches or private tours. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch – Melbourne
At number 1, this tour is a standout because it reverses the usual route — leaving early from Melbourne to beat the crowds. The scenic drive takes you to the iconic Twelve Apostles, where you’ll see the formations in the morning light, avoiding the hustle that crowds bring later in the day. The tour includes stops at Loch Ard Gorge, where dramatic cliffs and shipwreck history await, and a walk through Melba Gully, known for spotting wild koalas among towering trees. A light lunch is provided, making this a well-rounded day for lovers of nature and scenic drives. The tour’s live commentary and air-conditioned vehicle make the long day comfortable.
Guests consistently praise the personalized experience, with reviews like “great tour, beautiful places, and Ethan’s humor kept us entertained.” Best suited for those who enjoy geography and wildlife, this trip offers a balance of scenery, wildlife, and comfort. Keep in mind, the route involves winding roads, so motion sickness might be a consideration.
Bottom line: This tour scores high for its early start, crowd avoidance, and stunning landscapes, making it perfect for travelers who want to see the coast with a personal touch.
2. Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch & Gin/Beer Option
For around $129, the Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch offers a solid day of tastings at four hand-picked wineries, paired with a two-course lunch and a glass of wine. The tour includes options to swap out the final winery for a gin distillery or brewery, adding variety for alcohol enthusiasts. The stops include renowned places like Domaine Yering and Yering Farm, with tastings of Pinot Noir, cider, and more. The lunch at a winery restaurant complements the tasting experience, and the self-indulgent visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolate & Ice-Cream Factory rounds out the day.
Guests mention the friendly guides and the great diversity of tastings, making this ideal for wine and food lovers who want a relaxed yet enriching experience. The tour balances educational tastings with enjoyable scenery, perfect if you’re pressed for time but want a full taste of Victoria’s famous vineyards.
Bottom line: Excellent value for a comprehensive, wine-focused day with optional extra tastings — a perfect choice for oenophiles and casual sippers alike.
3. Yarra Valley wine and gin tour with Champagne Lunch at Chandon!
This private tour blends luxury and intimacy, starting with a Champagne brunch at Chandon. From there, you visit boutique wineries like Yering Farm and historic Yering Station, tasting some of Australia’s best Pinot Noir and sparkling wines. The visit to the boutique Stag Lane Farm Distillery offers small-batch gins made from produce grown on site, giving the tour a local, authentic feel. The delicious lunch with sparkling wine at Chandon sets the tone for an indulgent day.
Guests consistently highlight the private setting and the personalized experience. Tour guide expertise is evident, and the combination of fabulous tastings, scenic vineyard views, and gourmet food makes this stand out. Ideal for couples or connoisseurs seeking a refined, exclusive experience, it offers both excellent value and a chance to relax without the crowds.
Bottom line: For a personalized, champagne-infused day in Yarra Valley, this tour is tough to beat — suited for romantic escapes or special wine tastings.
4. Melbourne: Full-Day Yarra Valley Wine Experience with Lunch
At number 4, this full-day wine tour takes you to four premium wineries, with a lunch at a winery restaurant that includes a glass of wine. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a classic vineyard experience, combined with scenic views of rolling hills. The guide provides insights into the region’s winemaking history, and guests can explore the grounds and art exhibits at each location.
This tour ranks for its value for money, combining a full day of tasting with a relaxed pace and a delicious lunch. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer structured yet flexible winery visits with enough time for tastings and scenery.
Bottom line: A reliable, well-rounded option for wine enthusiasts who want to sample Victoria’s best in comfort.
5. Yarra Valley Winery Tour from Melbourne – Lunch included
Guests love the full-day itinerary, which includes visits to Domaine Chandon and Tokar Estate for tastings, plus a two-course lunch with a glass of wine. The tour is praised for having a knowledgeable guide and a good mix of wine, cheese, and scenic stops. It offers a nice balance of guided tastings and free time to explore.
At $146.45, it presents excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and variety of wineries. Best suited for those wanting a comprehensive, all-in experience that combines history, scenery, and tastings.
Bottom line: For wine lovers seeking a guided taste of the region with excellent value, this tour hits the spot.
6. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Eco Tour with Lunch
This eco-focused Great Ocean Road Eco Tour with Lunch emphasizes crowd avoidance and nature, starting early to beat the traffic. Highlights include the 12 Apostles before the crowds arrive, koala sightings in the eucalyptus forests, and a rainforest walk through the Great Otway National Park. The tour concludes with a lunch at a local spot, adding a tasty break from sightseeing.
Guests love the relaxed pace and the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The tour’s focus on sustainable tourism and breathtaking views makes it perfect for nature lovers who want a full day of scenic beauty.
Bottom line: An excellent eco-friendly option for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, rainforest, and coast with a good lunch.
7. Mornington Peninsula Small Group Hot Springs, Lunch & Winery Tour
This small-group tour offers an intimate experience exploring the Mornington Peninsula’s hot springs, wineries, and scenic coastal spots. After a complimentary coffee in Melbourne, you’ll visit Arthurs Seat for panoramic views, then relax in Peninsula Hot Springs soaking in thermal pools — the highlight for many. The day includes a gourmet lunch with wine at Green Olive estate, showcasing local produce.
Guests rave about the personalized service and relaxing pace, making this ideal for couples or small groups wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation. The guaranteed window seats and Wi-Fi coach add comfort.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a relaxing day combining hot springs, scenic views, and wine without large crowds.
8. From Melbourne: Reverse Great Ocean Road Day Trip with Lunch
This reverse route tour offers a different perspective, starting inland for a less crowded experience. You’ll visit Apollo Bay, explore rainforest walks, and see the famous 12 Apostles early in the day. The guide points out local wildlife and scenic spots, with a lunch included along the way.
Guests mention the less crowded experience and the opportunity to spot koalas in the wild. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more authentic, less touristy coastal experience.
Bottom line: A solid choice for nature lovers who want to avoid the crowds while enjoying the coast and wildlife.
9. Melbourne: Spirit Of Melbourne Yarra River Lunch Cruise
For a relaxed, scenic lunch, the Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise offers a delicious 3-course meal aboard a comfortable boat, with views of Melbourne’s iconic waterfront. The cruise takes you past landmarks like Flinders Street Station and Southbank, all while you enjoy locally sourced dishes and drinks.
Guests praise the great atmosphere and spectacular views, making it ideal for couples or groups seeking a casual yet elegant midday experience. The all-inclusive drinks and scenic setting make it a strong value.
Bottom line: An elegant, leisurely way to enjoy Melbourne’s cityscape from the river, perfect for a special lunch or celebration.
10. Shore Excursion Melbourne, Sights, Kangaroos, Koalas Lunch & Wine
If your cruise stops in Melbourne, this shore excursion offers a complete day, including wildlife encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary, a 2-course lunch with wine, and scenic stops like Arthurs Seat. It’s a well-organized way to see both urban and rural highlights without renting a car.
Guests appreciate the efficient itinerary and the chance to feed kangaroos and koalas—a highlight for many. It’s ideal for cruise travelers who want a full, stress-free day.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise passengers eager to see wildlife and taste local wines on a tightly packed day.
11. Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise
This lunch cruise offers a two-hour cruise along the Yarra River with a three-course meal and drinks included. It’s a great way to combine urban sightseeing with delicious food, passing famous sights like Crown Casino and Docklands.
Guests comment on the spectacular views and attentive staff, making it a popular choice for a midday break. It’s best suited for those looking for a relaxed, scenic lunch in a refined setting.
Bottom line: An elegant and easy way to enjoy Melbourne’s waterways while savoring quality local dishes.
12. Melbourne: Private Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter
For a luxury experience, this private helicopter tour takes you over Melbourne and into the Yarra Valley, arriving at Balgownie Estate for a wines and a 2-course lunch. The aerial views of the city and vineyards are unforgettable, and the private setting makes this perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Guests love the combination of adventure and elegance with award-winning wines and a scenic helicopter flight. It’s suited for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to combine luxury, adventure, and wine into a single unforgettable day.
13. Full-Day Sports and Beer Tour of Melbourne with Lunch
Sports fans will appreciate this tour that visits major venues like the MCG, Flemington Racecourse, and the Formula 1 circuit. You’ll get behind-the-scenes access, plus enjoy tastings at a local brewery. The tour includes lunch with a drink, making it a sports-enthusiast’s dream.
Guests mention the informative guides and unique access to venues most visitors miss. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of sports, culture, and beer.
Bottom line: A fun, active choice for sports lovers wanting insider access and local brews.
14. From Melbourne: Bay Sightseeing and Ferry Ride with Lunch
This full-day trip combines bayside sightseeing, a ferry ride from Queenscliff to Sorrento, and visits to colorful bathing boxes. After exploring, enjoy a lunch with scenic views at the Arthurs Seat Lookout. It’s great for a relaxed day filled with coastal scenery and local culture.
Guests appreciate the ferry experience and clifftop vistas, making it well-suited for families or anyone wanting a laid-back day out.
Bottom line: Perfect for exploring Melbourne’s bay areas with a relaxed pace and scenic stops.
15. Great Ocean Road Small Group Tour with Dingos, Sparkling & Lunch
Finally, this small-group tour emphasizes wildlife encounters with supervised dingoes, kangaroos, and emus at a conservation sanctuary. The organic, light lunch included makes it a balanced day of nature and native animals while enjoying the spectacular coast.
Guests highlight the educational component and the chance to support conservation efforts. It’s ideal for families or wildlife fans wanting a more interactive experience.
Bottom line: An enriching blend of wildlife, scenic views, and conservation, perfect for those who want to support Aussie wildlife while enjoying lunch.
How to Choose Your Melbourne Lunch Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re after scenery and wildlife, the Great Ocean Road Eco Tour or the reverse Great Ocean Road trip will suit you. For wine lovers, the Yarra Valley wine and gin tour with Champagne offers luxury and exclusivity, while the full-day Yarra Valley winery experience provides great value.
Travelers with limited time should consider the Yarra River lunch cruise, which combines scenic views with a delicious meal. Those seeking a luxury splurge might prefer the private helicopter winery lunch, while wildlife enthusiasts can’t miss the Wildlife conservation tour.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and enjoy Melbourne’s fantastic lunch experiences.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne offers a wide range of lunch experiences, from scenic coastal drives and wildlife encounters to vineyard tastings and river cruises. Whether you want a full-day winery tour, a quick cruise along the Yarra, or an adventure-filled coastal trip, there’s something for every appetite and interest.
For a balanced mix of scenery, food, and wildlife, the 12 Apostles Scenic Tour remains a top pick. For those craving luxury and exclusivity, the private Yarra Valley wine and gin experience is unbeatable. If a relaxed, scenic river lunch appeals more, the Spirit of Melbourne cruise offers a picturesque setting with excellent food.
No matter your choice, Melbourne’s lunch tours promise a delicious, memorable midday break. Just remember to book early, especially if you’re visiting during busy periods, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.