Melbourne is a city that loves to be explored by bike. Its flat terrain, well-maintained bike paths, and a mix of historic neighborhoods and modern skyscrapers make cycling an ideal way to see the sights. Whether you’re interested in discovering hidden laneways filled with street art, visiting iconic landmarks like the Melbourne Cricket Ground, or cruising along the Yarra River, Melbourne offers options for every cyclist. We particularly enjoy tours that combine history, local culture, and great scenery—like the Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour which gives an insider’s view of both the bustling city center and the quieter local neighborhoods.
Melbourne’s bike tours are not just about seeing sights—they’re about experiencing the city’s character on two wheels. For a relaxed experience, the Best of Melbourne Bike Tour takes you through top attractions and lesser-known spots, with an emphasis on Aboriginal history and Melbourne’s role in historic events. If you prefer a more modern approach with the latest e-bike technology, the Electric Bike Tour of Melbourne offers a smooth ride suitable for all fitness levels, with most of the route on safe park paths.
Here’s a quick overview: The list below includes guided city tours on traditional bikes, e-bikes, private tailored trips, and even a water-bike adventure on Port Phillip Bay. Each tour has its own style, pace, and focus—whether you want a quick highlights ride or an in-depth cultural experience.
1. Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour
At number 1, the Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour earns top marks for its comprehensive exploration of Melbourne’s many faces. This 4.5-hour guided ride is perfect for those who want an insider’s perspective on the city’s best sites and secret corners. Bikes and gear are included, and the tour limits small groups to just eight people, ensuring personalized attention.
What makes this tour stand out is the way it blends iconic landmarks like the Yarra River, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Rod Laver Arena with lesser-known local neighborhoods bursting with street art, rooftop bars, and vibrant laneways. The guide shares stories about Melbourne’s past and present, making the experience both educational and fun. With an option to upgrade to an eBike, riders can cover more ground with less effort, ideal for those with limited time or less stamina. Customers rave about the knowledgeable guides and relaxed pace, with reviews consistently 5/5.
Bottom Line: This is a great option for travelers who want a lively, well-rounded introduction to Melbourne on two wheels, with plenty of local flavor.
2. The Best of Melbourne Bike Tour
Second on our list, the Best of Melbourne Bike Tour offers a leisurely ride that emphasizes history and culture. Over approximately 4.5 hours, you’ll visit top sights and some hidden gems, all while learning about Aboriginal history and pivotal moments like the Eureka Rebellion. The tour includes a stop at the Shrine of Remembrance, a key site of national significance, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the city’s sporting heart.
What makes this tour stand out is its storytelling approach, with an expert guide sharing rich historical insights. You’ll stop at a local bar for lunch (own expense), giving you a taste of Melbourne’s lively food scene. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and the mix of sights, with many calling it the best way to see Melbourne in one day. Some mention navigating busy streets on e-bikes as a minor challenge, but overall, the balance of education and fun makes this a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and those who want a relaxed, informative ride that balances landmark visits with cultural storytelling.
3. Electric Bike Tour of Melbourne
Third, the Electric Bike Tour of Melbourne takes the classic city tour up a notch with the ease of e-bikes. This 4-hour ride is perfect if you want to see more with less exertion, especially in Melbourne’s parks, along the Yarra River, and around major sites like Cooks’ Cottage. About 95% of the route is on safe bike paths and parks, making it suitable even for beginners or those worried about fatigue.
The guide makes this experience accessible and fun, with reviews praising how easy the bikes are to operate. The stops are similar to other city tours, but the added e-bike boost means you can cover more ground comfortably, even on a hot day or if you’re not used to cycling. This tour is particularly good if you want to focus on sightseeing without breaking a sweat.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, energy-efficient way to explore Melbourne’s highlights, this tour hits all the major spots with minimal effort.
4. Classic Melbourne Bike tour
Next, the Classic Melbourne Bike Tour is a straightforward, relaxed 4-hour ride designed for all skill levels. It emphasizes scenic routes along the Yarra River and through Royal Botanic Gardens, giving you a taste of Melbourne’s natural beauty. The route is primarily on bike paths and parks, making it safe and manageable.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a gentle introduction to Melbourne’s sights and sounds. Riders stop in Fitzroy for a break and an optional lunch, soaking in Melbourne’s eclectic vibe. The guide shares stories about the city’s history and culture, which adds depth to the experience. With a 4.8/5 rating from 56 reviews, it’s clearly popular among travelers seeking a leisurely pace and scenic views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for casual cyclists and families looking for a scenic, stress-free tour with local insights.
5. Frankston: Port Phillip Bay Water Bike Tour
Number 5 takes us off the streets and onto the water with the Water Bike Tour in Frankston. This 1.5-hour guided trip on water bikes offers a unique perspective of Port Phillip Bay, with opportunities to spot dolphins and enjoy the secluded beaches of Mt Eliza. It’s a different way to connect with the natural beauty of the area, perfect for families or those looking for a short, fun outing.
The water bikes are easy to operate, and the tour includes a relaxed, scenic glide along the coast. It’s a very different experience from land-based cycling, focusing on tranquility and nature. Though reviews are limited, those who have tried it love the chance to see Daveys Bay and its marine life, making it a memorable addition for water lovers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or water enthusiasts seeking a brief but distinctive adventure on calm waters.
6. Private E-Bike Tour with Local Guide
Number 6, the Private E-Bike Tour with a Local Guide, offers a highly customizable experience. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll explore Melbourne’s top sites and hidden corners at your own pace. The itinerary includes iconic landmarks like the Yarra River, Shrine of Remembrance, and Cooks’ Cottage, with a flexible schedule.
This tour is especially good if you want a private, tailored experience or have specific interests. The e-bike makes covering larger distances easier, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to your exploration. It’s priced higher but offers personalized attention and the option to customize stops based on your interests.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personalized approach, with one calling it a “great way to see Melbourne with a local guide.” This tour is perfect for those who want a private, stress-free day tailored to their preferences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a bespoke experience with expert guidance.
$134.94 per person
7. Melbourne: Private Bike Tour With A Guide
Number 7 is a private guided ride designed for those who want a more intimate experience. The tour lasts about 3 hours, taking you through Melbourne’s main sights and also into lesser-known areas. The guide tailors the route based on your interests, making it a flexible, personal way to explore.
This is a good choice if you prefer a shorter, more focused experience. The guide’s local knowledge helps you discover special spots you might not find on your own. It’s best suited for travelers who want a private, customizable tour but don’t need a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick, personalized tour that hits the highlights and some hidden gems.
$184 per person
8. The Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour
This tour, The Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour, is a lively 4.5-hour ride that takes you through the city’s most iconic sights, including the Queen Victoria Market and the Yarra River. Guided by passionate locals, it’s designed to be fun, sociable, and accessible on a new, easy-to-ride bike.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on giving a quick but thorough overview of Melbourne’s highlights, with an emphasis on comfort and enjoyment. Reviews highlight its engaging guide and the fact that it’s ranked among the top 10% of tours worldwide. This tour is well-suited for those who want a sociable experience that covers the essentials comfortably.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who prefer a lively, social ride with a knowledgeable guide and a focus on the city’s famous sights.
9. Melbourne 3-Hour Bike Tour Highlights (Private Bike Tour)
Finally, the Melbourne 3-Hour Bike Tour Highlights offers a private, customized experience. This 3-hour journey takes you to top sites like the Yarra River, Southbank, and Queen Victoria Market with a guide who adapts the route to your preferences.
While reviews are currently not available, the focus on top sites and the private format make it ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible experience. The route avoids tour buses and emphasizes off-the-beaten-path spots, making it a good choice for those in a hurry or with specific interests.
Bottom Line: Perfect for private groups who want a quick, customized city tour on bicycles, avoiding large crowds and focusing on personal preferences.
$187.34 per person
How to Choose the Best Melbourne Bike Tour for You
When deciding which tour suits your style, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive introduction with plenty of stories, the Famous Melbourne City Bike Tour is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, historical experience, the Best of Melbourne Bike Tour offers a gentler pace with cultural insights. If you prefer a stress-free ride with less pedaling, the Electric Bike Tour provides a smooth experience.
For those seeking a personalized touch, the Private E-Bike Tour or the Private Guided Bike Tour are excellent options. Budget travelers and families should look at the more affordable tours like the Classic Melbourne Bike Tour, which offers a solid balance of scenery and storytelling.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Consider the weather and your own cycling comfort when choosing between traditional bikes and e-bikes.
In summary, Melbourne’s bike tours range from quick city highlights to in-depth cultural explorations, with options tailored to different interests and fitness levels. Whether you prefer riding on quiet park paths, exploring laneways, or cruising along the bay, there’s a perfect ride waiting. For a memorable visit, pick a tour that matches your style, and don’t forget to book ahead before the best times fill up.