Our Story

Melbourne Explorer began in 2015 when three friends—Eliza, James, and Hannah—found themselves constantly being asked for recommendations by visiting friends and family. Born and raised in Melbourne, they shared a deep passion for their city's hidden laneways, vibrant coffee culture, and ever-evolving art scene. What started as informal walking tours for friends soon developed into a genuine business opportunity when they realized how many visitors were seeking authentic, local experiences beyond standard tourist attractions.

In their first year, they operated tours from a tiny office in Flinders Lane, focusing exclusively on Melbourne's CBD. As word spread about their insider knowledge and personalized approach, demand quickly grew. By 2017, they had expanded their team to include specialists in Melbourne's diverse neighborhoods, food culture, and history. The following year, they added customized itinerary planning and day trips to nearby destinations like the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.

Today, Melbourne Explorer has grown into a team of passionate local guides dedicated to showcasing the soul of Melbourne, from its iconic landmarks to its best-kept secrets. We've helped thousands of visitors experience Melbourne like a local, while maintaining the personal touch and authentic insights that inspired our founding.

Our Mission & Values

At Melbourne Explorer, our mission is to connect visitors with the authentic heart and soul of Melbourne through immersive, personalized experiences that go beyond typical tourist trails. We believe that truly experiencing a city means engaging with its culture, history, and community in meaningful ways.

Our approach is guided by these core values:

• A

  Authenticity

  We showcase Melbourne through the eyes of locals who genuinely love their city. We don't gloss over challenges or present a sanitized version of Melbourne – we celebrate its real character, complexities, and continuous evolution.

• P

  Personalization

  We recognize that every traveler is unique. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast, history buff, art lover, or family with young children, we tailor experiences that align with your specific interests, pace, and preferences.

• S

  Sustainability

  We promote responsible tourism practices that respect Melbourne's environment, communities, and cultural heritage. We prioritize walking tours, public transportation, and support for local businesses to minimize our ecological footprint.

• I

  Inclusivity

  We strive to make Melbourne accessible to all visitors, regardless of background, ability, or budget. Our team receives training in cultural sensitivity and accessibility to ensure everyone feels welcome and respected.

Why Choose Melbourne Explorer

• 1

  Local Expertise

  All our guides are born-and-raised Melburnians or long-term residents with deep connections to the city. We don't just know the popular spots—we understand Melbourne's cultural nuances, seasonal rhythms, and neighborhood quirks that only locals would recognize.

• 2

  Personalized Experiences

  No cookie-cutter tours here. Whether you're booking a group tour or custom itinerary, we take time to understand your interests and adapt accordingly. Our guides excel at reading guests' reactions and making real-time adjustments to ensure your experience exceeds expectations.

• 3

  Beyond the Obvious

  While we'll show you iconic landmarks like Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, we're renowned for introducing visitors to hidden gems—secret rooftop bars, artisan workshops, underrated neighborhoods, and local favorites that aren't in guidebooks.

• 4

  Continuous Discovery

  Melbourne is constantly evolving, and so are we. Our team regularly explores new venues, attends local events, and refreshes our knowledge to ensure our recommendations remain current and authentic. When you tour with us, you're experiencing the Melbourne of today—not last year's city.