Yarra Valley is Australia’s premier wine region, but it’s so much more than just vineyards. Here, you can savor gourmet food, enjoy adventure activities, and explore charming towns—all within a scenic drive from Melbourne. We particularly love the Yarra Valley Grazing Tour for its variety of tastings and artisan producers, or the Yarra River Half-Day Rafting for an active day in nature. Whether you’re a wine lover, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, the region offers a well-rounded mix of experiences. To get a taste of local farm life and indulge in cheese, gin, and pizza, check out the Grazing Tour. For thrill-seekers, the Skydiving offers an adrenaline rush over vineyards, while families or groups can enjoy the Hop On Hop Off bus for flexible sightseeing.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Yarra Valley
The tours listed here cover a range of interests and budgets:
– Wine and Food Tours: including full-day vineyard visits, gourmet lunches, and tasting experiences (#3, #4, #10)
– Adventure Activities: like whitewater rafting and skydiving (#5, #11)
– Specialty Tours: such as bike adventures, food-focused excursions, and private luxe experiences (#6, #8)
– Hop-on Hop-off: flexible bus service perfect for spontaneous tastings (#2)
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Yarra Valley Grazing Tour Wine, Cheese, Gin, Pizza from Melbourne
This full-day ecotour from Melbourne is a fantastic way to sample the best of the Yarra Valley’s food scene. It includes visits to local farmers, family-run wineries, and artisan producers—giving you an authentic taste of the region’s culinary culture. You’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting at Rochford Wines, followed by a cheese platter at Coldstream Dairy, both of which showcase local craftsmanship. The highlight for many is the gin and tonic tasting paired with wood-fired pizza at Stag Lane Farm Distillery. To satisfy your sweet tooth, a chocolate tasting at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie caps off the day.
This tour stands out for its all-inclusive tastings and small-group feel, which means more personalized attention. The round-trip transport from Melbourne includes onboard Wi-Fi, making it easy to share your experience in real time. Guests love how relaxed and friendly the guides are, with reviews praising the variety of tastings and the chance to chat with local producers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food and drink lovers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day in the Yarra Valley. At $128.14 per person, it’s excellent value given the number of tastings and quality experiences included.
2. From Melbourne: Hop On Hop Off Yarra Valley – RED Route
If you prefer flexibility, this hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to explore Yarra Valley without the stress of driving. For around $63, you get a 7 to 8-hour loop that covers up to four stops, with buses running every hour. You decide where to hop off for tastings, sightseeing, or meals, making this ideal for spontaneous plans.
The tour isn’t limited to wineries; you can visit museums, galleries, or even distilleries, depending on your interests. The buses provide cooler storage for purchases, and reviews highlight the attentive driver and smooth operation. The route is designed for those who want a relaxed, self-guided experience with the convenience of a dedicated driver.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those who want to create their own day and include as many or as few stops as they choose. It’s especially suited for independent travelers comfortable with planning on the fly.
3. Yarra Valley: Winery Tour with Lunch at Yering Station
This small-group tour, priced at $191 for around 10 hours, combines winery visits with a delicious lunch at Yering Station. Located just an hour from Melbourne, the region is renowned for its chardonnay, pinot noir, and sparkling wines. The tour includes visits to four vineyards, each offering a different experience, from tasting sessions to scenic views.
The highlight is the gourmet a la carte lunch at Yering Station, paired with a glass of wine. Guests appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to learn about the region’s wine-making traditions from knowledgeable guides. This tour balances wine discovery with scenic landscapes, perfect for those who want a relaxed, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who also want a quality meal and a small, friendly group. The focus on premium wineries makes this tour a good choice for a refined but laid-back day.
4. Wine Tour Yarra Valley Five Star Experience
This eight-hour tour at $135.82 offers a gourmet winery lunch plus three estate wine tastings. The day includes a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, where you can indulge in chocolates and ice-cream. The tour then explores Tokar Estate with a two-course lunch and a visit to Soumah Winery, famous for its award-winning wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its attention to quality and variety, offering both gourmet food and wine experiences. The smaller group size ensures more personal interaction and a relaxed pace. Guests have praised the guide’s friendliness and the generosity of tastings, describing the day as “a really enjoyable trip.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and wine lovers seeking a luxurious yet affordable experience with included gourmet lunch and multiple winery visits.
5. Yarra River Half-Day Rafting Experience
For those wanting an active adventure, this half-day rafting trip costs about $74 and lasts around 3 hours. You’ll paddle through Level 2 rapids on the Yarra River, passing mini-gorges, valleys, and seeing local wildlife. All equipment is provided, and guides are experts at making it fun and safe.
This tour is suitable for beginners and families, with reviews mentioning how the guide made everyone comfortable and the thrill of navigating rapids like “pinball” and “Bob’s Rock.” It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of the region from a different perspective while getting your adrenaline going.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating choice for active travelers or families looking for a memorable outdoor experience, combining nature with adventure.
6. Yarra Valley Guided Bike Tour | Food & Wine Region
If you want to combine cycling with food and wine, this six-hour guided bike tour is a fantastic option. Starting along the historic Warburton Rail Trail, the tour takes you through scenic farmland and vineyards. You’ll enjoy wine tastings at Soumah and a pizza lunch with local ingredients. The inclusion of a visit to Yarra Valley Dairy adds artisan cheese tasting, making this a full sensory experience.
The tour is designed for a small group, ensuring a relaxed pace and plenty of time to enjoy each stop. Guests often comment on how the biking adds a fun element and how guides keep things interesting with local stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore the countryside and enjoy local food and wine without the rush.
7. Yarra Valley Foodie Tour, Devonshire Tea, Cheese and Chocolate
This four-hour foodie tour at $135.14 is a delicious way to experience Yarra Valley’s culinary delights. Led by a local, Mimi, you’ll visit Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, enjoy scenic views at Yarra Glen, and savor Devonshire tea in Seville. The tour also includes tastings of artisan cheeses and Bahn Mi sandwiches at a cozy bakery.
What sets this apart is its focus on local artisans and scenic routes avoided by larger tours. Reviewers praise its relaxed pace and the host’s deep knowledge of the area. It’s ideal for travelers who want a culinary taste of the valley without a full day of wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies who want a balanced, relaxed tour with lots of tastings and lovely scenery.
8. Yarra Valley luxe private tour with Champagne Brunch
For those seeking a luxurious, personalized experience, this private tour offers a champagne brunch and exclusive tastings. Priced at $461.78 per person, it’s suited for special occasions or travelers who want the very best. The tour includes private transportation, tailored stops, and access to premium wineries.
Guests love the flexibility and intimacy, enjoying a day of indulgence with custom itinerary options. It’s particularly good for couples or small groups looking for a high-end experience in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A top choice for luxury travelers wanting exclusivity, comfort, and personalized attention.
9. Whitewater Sports rafting on the Yarra river
This whitewater rafting adventure costs about $71.12 and lasts approximately 3 hours. It’s suitable for beginners, with instructors guiding you through Grade 2 rapids. The tour offers a fun, active way to see the river’s wild side and get a different view of the region’s natural beauty.
Reviews highlight the well-organized trips and the fun guides who make everyone feel safe. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting a thrilling outdoor activity without much prior experience.
Bottom Line: An exciting, family-friendly option that combines outdoor adventure with scenic views of the Yarra River.
10. Yarra Valley Wine & Winery Tour from Melbourne – All Inclusive!
This full-day tour at $122 offers a comprehensive look at Victoria’s wine region, visiting four wineries. It includes tastings at Balgownie Estate, Greenstone Vineyards, and more, plus a lunch with wine. The driver and guide share insights into the wine-making process, making it both fun and educational.
Guests appreciate the well-paced itinerary and the chance to sample a variety of wines, from sparkling to reds. The inclusions and relaxed pace make it a great value for those who want a hassle-free, all-in experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers and wine enthusiasts wanting a complete overview of the Yarra Valley’s best wineries with minimal fuss.
$122.04 per person
11. Yarra Valley: Skydiving Experience
This skydiving adventure costs $250 and offers an adrenaline rush from 15,000 feet, with 60 seconds of free fall. It’s a truly unique way to see the valleys and vineyards from above, combining thrill-seeking with stunning scenery.
The experience is handled by qualified instructors, emphasizing safety and fun. Reviews note how unforgettable the view and adrenaline are, making it a perfect choice for adventure lovers or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: The ultimate bucket list activity for those craving a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of the Yarra Valley.
$250 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Yarra Valley tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a comprehensive, all-inclusive wine and food experience, the Yarra Valley Grazing Tour offers great value. If you prefer a flexible day without commitments, the Hop On Hop Off lets you craft your itinerary. For outdoor enthusiasts, the rafting and skydiving provide thrilling alternatives.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Full-Day Wine & Food or private luxe options, to secure spots and ensure a smooth trip.
The Yarra Valley offers a stunning variety of experiences tailored to every taste. Whether you’re after a relaxed wine tasting, an active adventure, or a luxury gastronomic getaway, there’s something here for you. For most travelers, mixing a couple of these tours—like a scenic bike ride with a wine tour—can create a well-rounded visit. So start planning now and book early—these experiences fill up fast!