Super Tour
Super Experience
Beyond the Guidebook: Hidden Melbourne in a Day by Sinali
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Beyond the Guidebook: Hidden Melbourne in a Day by Sinali
This immersive walking-and-tram tour is a love letter to Melbourne’s hidden soul—designed for curious wanderers, café lovers, bookworms, and anyone drawn to the city’s quieter magic. Beginning just steps from the hotel, the journey eases you into the day with comforting cafés in Carlton, where cozy brews and generous breakfasts set the tone. From there, we drift through leafy streets, historic squares, and iconic tram lines, uncovering spaces that hum with nostalgia, creativity, and local charm.
Along the way, you’ll explore rare and antiquarian bookstores, slip into atmospheric laneways famed for artisanal chocolate and vibrant street culture, and discover tucked-away bars that come alive after dusk. For those intrigued by the mystical, the tour takes a whimsical turn into Melbourne’s enchanting arcades and spell shops—filled with crystals, charms, tarot, and old-world wonder. Equal parts relaxed and exploratory, this side-quest-style experience invites you to wander, sip, browse, and believe—before gently returning you to the hotel, a little tired, a little inspired, and fully under Melbourne’s spell ✨
moreThis immersive walking-and-tram tour is a love letter to Melbourne’s hidden soul—designed for curious wanderers, café lovers, bookworms, and anyone drawn to the city’s quieter magic. Beginning just steps from the hotel, the journey eases you into the day with comforting cafés in Carlton, where cozy brews and generous breakfasts set the tone. From there, we drift through leafy streets, historic squares, and iconic tram lines, uncovering spaces that hum with nostalgia, creativity, and local charm.
Along the way, you’ll explore rare and antiquarian bookstores, slip into atmospheric laneways famed for artisanal chocolate and vibrant street culture, and discover tucked-away bars that come alive after dusk. For those intrigued by the mystical, the tour takes a whimsical turn into Melbourne’s enchanting arcades and spell shops—filled with crystals, charms, tarot, and old-world wonder. Equal parts relaxed and exploratory, this side-quest-style experience invites you to wander, sip, browse, and believe—before gently returning you to the hotel, a little tired, a little inspired, and fully under Melbourne’s spell ✨
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No items found.
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[{"address":"Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton by IHG","location":{"latitude":-37.80143914081296,"longitude":144.96335392203096,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC98F-dJC1moRpHrC0Cs6bww","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage%20(5).jpeg?alt=media&token=05c461ab-9b2a-4b27-bca7-c60383c06829","type":"img"},{"content":"Let’s unravel some of the hidden corners of Melbourne from laneways, bookstores, small cafes to even witch shops if you insist (…not the evil ones, trust me)! Now buckle up, wear a pair of comfy shoes and maybe refresh yourself with our morning juice shot available downstairs before we get started!\n\nThere are countless places that are at walkable distance or even a tram away from the hotel that’ll keep you up and running for the perfect little side-quest.\n\n","type":"text"}]},{"address":"The Heart of Carlton","location":{"latitude":-37.797376462316855,"longitude":144.96820229999997,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC8qpLXRD1moRu1Vx_S087fc","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2F9a50e4ba-af04-4a9d-a2fc-68a017214224.jpg?alt=media&token=6ba066c1-5db9-43e4-bbca-d0151615e863","type":"img"},{"content":"If you’re the one who needs to kick-start the day by having a warm cup of coffee and a homely breakfast; embracing yourself with a ray of positive energy then The Heart of Carlton is personally one of the perfect spots that not only brews the coziest cup of coffee but also provides generous portion sizes equivalent to mama’s cooking.\n\nHaving a comforting environment where you could enjoy the pleasure of books, musical instruments or even a spontaneous open conversation with a unique sense of nostalgia, this café is only an 8-minute walk away from the hotel\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FColumn_-_Inner_City_Local-4.jpeg?alt=media&token=960983ed-835f-4ab6-8bd8-2e55e7b9135b","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Humble Rays Carlton","location":{"latitude":-37.80474206232011,"longitude":144.96160030000001,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJ9VrAK81C1moR3AEdezwbYXE","media":[{"content":"Another hearty coffee spot is the Humble Rays Carlton which is a short and sweet stroll of roughly 6-8 minutes from the hotel down Lincoln Square, Bouverie Street which offers an array of quality meals from 8.00am-4.00pm.\n\nA personal favorite of mine is their famous Iced Cinnamon Latte and their Banana Matcha Cloud alongside their mouthwatering Egg Benny, YUM!!\n\nIf you’re particular with certain dietaries, this café has got you sorted! They’ve got diverse options for dietary preferences with vegan, gluten-free, dairy -free and vegetarian options.","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fhumble-rays-1.jpg?alt=media&token=1e62c440-ba33-43d4-bdbb-96b1c5322335","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimages.jpeg?alt=media&token=91e03b46-b640-4bda-ad0c-eb75d7c48745","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Kay Craddock Antiquarian Bookseller PTY LTD","location":{"latitude":-37.81488606232464,"longitude":144.9682022,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJfcTWRrRC1moRS0F2e5k88lw","media":[{"content":"If you consider yourself a bookworm or a vintage enthusiast the Kay Craddock Antiquarian Bookseller in Collins Street is a must-visit!\n\nLocated at the Assembly Building Hall at 156 Collins Street which is approximately an 18-minute tram ride (tram line 64/67/6) from the hotel. This bookstore is the ideal location for book collectors and for anyone who’s in-love with rare books. The location gives out an iconic scholarly ambiance with a classical touch. Open Monday-Friday: 10.00AM-6.00PM and Saturday: 10.00AM-4.00PM.\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FKay-Craddock-Antiquarian-Bookseller-Pty-Ltd_7ac26430597dbbc6ee1f954104ae1af3.jpg?alt=media&token=c7fd60d1-cbc3-4f97-a3e1-e8f7edfb6381","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FKay_Craddock_Old_and_rare_Books-2-768x576.jpg?alt=media&token=2bfaa2fb-204a-4abb-b529-663870776786","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Mörk Chocolate Elevator","location":{"latitude":-37.81583061232504,"longitude":144.9632371,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJq-R0paRD1moRh4W8w9I4jeI","media":[{"content":"The city is filled with numerous laneways that each has something unique to offer, from art to food to gifts.\n\nA specific laneway that caught my heart for a divine Hot Chocolate and gooey marshmellow that is a must-try combo different from the rest is at Mork Chocolate in Equitable Place- just a 16-minute tram ride from the hotel!\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fmork-chocolate-qvm_mel_s_155304_1600x1200.jpg?alt=media&token=3c224ae7-0ddd-40d1-9bfe-94bf83313030","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage.jpg?alt=media&token=e8674bcd-2cb2-4dd1-be9d-f1b24a551e69","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Section 8","location":{"latitude":-37.81180366232327,"longitude":144.96548100000004,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJdW-KOMpC1moR0vrWPmqUHu8","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fsection-208-1.jpg?alt=media&token=14e67398-f9b4-44fb-a992-650c4a29d3ee","type":"img"},{"content":"On the other hand, if you’d like to keep the day free for a little dozing in your room after a warm shower, Tattersall’s Lane is the ideal stop for a spontaneous night that intertwines China Town’s vibrancy with the north end of the city lights where you’ll come across the signature laneway-bar Section-8- why not booze things up a little before it’s too late?!","type":"text"}]},{"address":"The SpellBox Cauldron","location":{"latitude":-37.81522216232478,"longitude":144.96431535,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJP2JjfW9D1moRwlUQpuwjvgg","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FScreenshot%202026-02-10%20at%204.24.56%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&token=9a875add-5917-4c68-aa4c-0bfc8834f87e","type":"img"},{"content":"Now to twist things up a little towards something uncanny and magical, the Spellbox Cauldron located in Melbourne CBD and the The Royal Arcade which I would personally recommed due to its beautiful layout (13-15min trm ride from hotel); will undoubtly be a one-of-a-kind experience that would lead your imagination into a different realm filled with charms, crystals, books….spells….psychic tools….if you’re really intrigued you could also get a tarot reading done- I mean why not?","type":"text"}]},{"address":"Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton by IHG","location":{"latitude":-37.80143873242159,"longitude":144.96336008600338,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC98F-dJC1moRpHrC0Cs6bww","media":[{"content":"Now, with the night settling in and the trams humming past, it’s the perfect moment to head back to the hotel—kick off those comfy shoes, freshen up, and let the memories of the day linger. Melbourne has a funny way of making even the simplest wander feel a little enchanted.","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage%20(4).jpeg?alt=media&token=38cf400c-80d1-437f-9189-bd16b27912f1","type":"img"}]}]
0
5.3
hours
0
times run
#
Rank
This immersive walking-and-tram tour is a love letter to Melbourne’s hidden soul—designed for curious wanderers, café lovers, bookworms, and anyone drawn to the city’s quieter magic. Beginning just steps from the hotel, the journey eases you into the day with comforting cafés in Carlton, where cozy brews and generous breakfasts set the tone. From there, we drift through leafy streets, historic squares, and iconic tram lines, uncovering spaces that hum with nostalgia, creativity, and local charm.
Along the way, you’ll explore rare and antiquarian bookstores, slip into atmospheric laneways famed for artisanal chocolate and vibrant street culture, and discover tucked-away bars that come alive after dusk. For those intrigued by the mystical, the tour takes a whimsical turn into Melbourne’s enchanting arcades and spell shops—filled with crystals, charms, tarot, and old-world wonder. Equal parts relaxed and exploratory, this side-quest-style experience invites you to wander, sip, browse, and believe—before gently returning you to the hotel, a little tired, a little inspired, and fully under Melbourne’s spell ✨
Rating
5.3
Hours
0
TOURS COMPLETED
#
rank
≈
0 kms
Language
English
Start Location
Tags
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On-tour Inclusion and Exclusion
Inclusions
Self-guided
Anytime, Anywhere
Creates by locals
Photo-taking assist
Video-taking assist
Exclusion
Drinking water
Sunglass and skin sunblock
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Preview
[{"address":"Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton by IHG","location":{"latitude":-37.80143914081296,"longitude":144.96335392203096,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC98F-dJC1moRpHrC0Cs6bww","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage%20(5).jpeg?alt=media&token=05c461ab-9b2a-4b27-bca7-c60383c06829","type":"img"},{"content":"Let’s unravel some of the hidden corners of Melbourne from laneways, bookstores, small cafes to even witch shops if you insist (…not the evil ones, trust me)! Now buckle up, wear a pair of comfy shoes and maybe refresh yourself with our morning juice shot available downstairs before we get started!\n\nThere are countless places that are at walkable distance or even a tram away from the hotel that’ll keep you up and running for the perfect little side-quest.\n\n","type":"text"}]},{"address":"The Heart of Carlton","location":{"latitude":-37.797376462316855,"longitude":144.96820229999997,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC8qpLXRD1moRu1Vx_S087fc","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2F9a50e4ba-af04-4a9d-a2fc-68a017214224.jpg?alt=media&token=6ba066c1-5db9-43e4-bbca-d0151615e863","type":"img"},{"content":"If you’re the one who needs to kick-start the day by having a warm cup of coffee and a homely breakfast; embracing yourself with a ray of positive energy then The Heart of Carlton is personally one of the perfect spots that not only brews the coziest cup of coffee but also provides generous portion sizes equivalent to mama’s cooking.\n\nHaving a comforting environment where you could enjoy the pleasure of books, musical instruments or even a spontaneous open conversation with a unique sense of nostalgia, this café is only an 8-minute walk away from the hotel\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FColumn_-_Inner_City_Local-4.jpeg?alt=media&token=960983ed-835f-4ab6-8bd8-2e55e7b9135b","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Humble Rays Carlton","location":{"latitude":-37.80474206232011,"longitude":144.96160030000001,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJ9VrAK81C1moR3AEdezwbYXE","media":[{"content":"Another hearty coffee spot is the Humble Rays Carlton which is a short and sweet stroll of roughly 6-8 minutes from the hotel down Lincoln Square, Bouverie Street which offers an array of quality meals from 8.00am-4.00pm.\n\nA personal favorite of mine is their famous Iced Cinnamon Latte and their Banana Matcha Cloud alongside their mouthwatering Egg Benny, YUM!!\n\nIf you’re particular with certain dietaries, this café has got you sorted! They’ve got diverse options for dietary preferences with vegan, gluten-free, dairy -free and vegetarian options.","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fhumble-rays-1.jpg?alt=media&token=1e62c440-ba33-43d4-bdbb-96b1c5322335","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimages.jpeg?alt=media&token=91e03b46-b640-4bda-ad0c-eb75d7c48745","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Kay Craddock Antiquarian Bookseller PTY LTD","location":{"latitude":-37.81488606232464,"longitude":144.9682022,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJfcTWRrRC1moRS0F2e5k88lw","media":[{"content":"If you consider yourself a bookworm or a vintage enthusiast the Kay Craddock Antiquarian Bookseller in Collins Street is a must-visit!\n\nLocated at the Assembly Building Hall at 156 Collins Street which is approximately an 18-minute tram ride (tram line 64/67/6) from the hotel. This bookstore is the ideal location for book collectors and for anyone who’s in-love with rare books. The location gives out an iconic scholarly ambiance with a classical touch. Open Monday-Friday: 10.00AM-6.00PM and Saturday: 10.00AM-4.00PM.\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FKay-Craddock-Antiquarian-Bookseller-Pty-Ltd_7ac26430597dbbc6ee1f954104ae1af3.jpg?alt=media&token=c7fd60d1-cbc3-4f97-a3e1-e8f7edfb6381","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FKay_Craddock_Old_and_rare_Books-2-768x576.jpg?alt=media&token=2bfaa2fb-204a-4abb-b529-663870776786","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Mörk Chocolate Elevator","location":{"latitude":-37.81583061232504,"longitude":144.9632371,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJq-R0paRD1moRh4W8w9I4jeI","media":[{"content":"The city is filled with numerous laneways that each has something unique to offer, from art to food to gifts.\n\nA specific laneway that caught my heart for a divine Hot Chocolate and gooey marshmellow that is a must-try combo different from the rest is at Mork Chocolate in Equitable Place- just a 16-minute tram ride from the hotel!\n\n","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fmork-chocolate-qvm_mel_s_155304_1600x1200.jpg?alt=media&token=3c224ae7-0ddd-40d1-9bfe-94bf83313030","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage.jpg?alt=media&token=e8674bcd-2cb2-4dd1-be9d-f1b24a551e69","type":"img"}]},{"address":"Section 8","location":{"latitude":-37.81180366232327,"longitude":144.96548100000004,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJdW-KOMpC1moR0vrWPmqUHu8","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fsection-208-1.jpg?alt=media&token=14e67398-f9b4-44fb-a992-650c4a29d3ee","type":"img"},{"content":"On the other hand, if you’d like to keep the day free for a little dozing in your room after a warm shower, Tattersall’s Lane is the ideal stop for a spontaneous night that intertwines China Town’s vibrancy with the north end of the city lights where you’ll come across the signature laneway-bar Section-8- why not booze things up a little before it’s too late?!","type":"text"}]},{"address":"The SpellBox Cauldron","location":{"latitude":-37.81522216232478,"longitude":144.96431535,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJP2JjfW9D1moRwlUQpuwjvgg","media":[{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2FScreenshot%202026-02-10%20at%204.24.56%E2%80%AFPM.png?alt=media&token=9a875add-5917-4c68-aa4c-0bfc8834f87e","type":"img"},{"content":"Now to twist things up a little towards something uncanny and magical, the Spellbox Cauldron located in Melbourne CBD and the The Royal Arcade which I would personally recommed due to its beautiful layout (13-15min trm ride from hotel); will undoubtly be a one-of-a-kind experience that would lead your imagination into a different realm filled with charms, crystals, books….spells….psychic tools….if you’re really intrigued you could also get a tarot reading done- I mean why not?","type":"text"}]},{"address":"Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton by IHG","location":{"latitude":-37.80143873242159,"longitude":144.96336008600338,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.1094105042163838},"placeId":"ChIJC98F-dJC1moRpHrC0Cs6bww","media":[{"content":"Now, with the night settling in and the trams humming past, it’s the perfect moment to head back to the hotel—kick off those comfy shoes, freshen up, and let the memories of the day linger. Melbourne has a funny way of making even the simplest wander feel a little enchanted.","type":"text"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F1VOp1whiTL2x99gUOjCL%2Fimage%20(4).jpeg?alt=media&token=38cf400c-80d1-437f-9189-bd16b27912f1","type":"img"}]}]
Included
- Self-Guided experience
- Run anytime, anywhere, 24/7, with your own phone
- Self-Guided experience
Excluded
- Additional expenses such as food and drink
- Transport
Meet Your Guide
Welcome to Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton, experience the city's charm with our self-guided tours and local tips. Access all your stay information here and enjoy your visit!
Meet Your Guide
Welcome to Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton, experience the city's charm with our self-guided tours and local tips. Access all your stay information here and enjoy your visit!
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