Things to Do in Ballarat

Sovereign Hill is a living museum telling the story of Ballarat as a gold rush town. Gold was discovered here in 1851, triggering the greatest alluvial gold rush the world has ever known.

See inside the best buildings and historical-cultural sites. Local friendly guide. Hear untold stories and history.

A wonderful place to visit for families or for first-time visitors to Australia

Experience the thrill of Victoria’s gold rush era with a captivating tour of Sovereign Hill, Australia’s premier outdoor museum. Step back in time to the 1850s and try your hand at panning for gold.

See behind-the-scenes of Daylesford's best producers and sights on 3to 5 cellar door private, corporate and group tours. Choose your own fun with cellar doors, farm gates, sights and more - just ask us!

Play a round of golf with your friends in two acres of scenic gardens

Experience the beauty of the Grampians National Park on a full-day tour from Melbourne. Discover a nature lover's paradise of amazing views, gorges, waterfalls and native wildlife including kangaroos.

This walking tour was originally commissioned by the non for profit Swiss Italian Fiesta – an annual festival that celebrates the Swiss and Italian culture, history and heritage of the village The walking tour is the only experience of this nature on offer in the village We explore the remarkable Swiss and Italian history, culture and stories in Hepburn. Its an engaging guided small group walk and talk. Guests see some of the stunning architectural styles that define this village and hear about the early settlers lives and stories. Guests will recognise the pre colonial period and first nations culture and history of this special and unique location. Guest houses, hotels, churches and schools along with their artwork and stories will give visitors new insight into the Hepburn Village. Exclusive access to highly sought after historical sites We will finish at a "local watering hole" to quench your thirst (drinks at bar prices & not included in this ticket)

Visit Australia's home to the criminally insane, and Ararat's most visited attraction: the J Ward Lunatic Asylum. Explore the museum, followed by a ghost tour of the home of notorious criminals including Chopper Read, Gary Webb and William Wallace.

Discover mysterious laneways, quirky local shops, and captivating hidden tales on a Ballarat City Tales walking tour. Get exclusive access to historic sites such as the Ballarat Town Hall, Ballaarat Mechanics Institute, historic Main Road (where Sovereign Hill is based), the site of Peter Lalor's Eureka speech and more. Perfect for adventurous couples of all ages, families, groups of friends and solo travellers. Small groups ensure a fun and engaging time, with plenty of mysterious tales told during your journey. Mid journey you will stop for a coffee, tea or chai (included) and discover more fascinating tales of Ballarat. Includes a beautiful Ballarat art print. Children under 6 are free (no drink included). Easily catch the train to Ballarat and walk to the tour starting point (15 minute walk).

Immerse yourself in The Grampians, a series of rugged mountain ranges, on a tour departing from Melbourne. Spot an abundance of kangaroos, emus, and native animals on a scenic guided bush walk.

Visit Australia's former home of the criminally insane, the J Ward Lunatic Asylum, about two hours outside of Melbourne. During this evening experience, check out the museum that now sits here before the 2-hour guided ghost tour begins. The tour introduces you to some of the notorious criminals who resided in the ward, including Chopper Read, as you explore the grounds in search of the souls who still linger here. Tours run every Friday & Saturday evening.

Step back in time to the Goldrush era at Sovereign Hill, visit the Eureka Centre, botanical gardens and finish with the best view of Melbourne from the Skydeck on the 88th floor.

Step back in time to the Goldrush era at Sovereign Hill, visit the Eureka Centre, see stunning floral displays in the botanical gardens and finish the day with the best view of Melbourne from the Skydeck on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower. You will be picked up in air conditioned comfort by an English speaking guide for this small group tour. Journey west out of Melbourne to Ballarat where your first stop will be the stunning Botanical Gardens for a wander amongst the flowers and heritage trees, then visit the picturesque Lake Wendouree. Time to step back in time to the Gold Rush of 1850 at Sovereign Hill where traditional craft demonstrations and opportunities to pan for Gold await you. From here we visit the Eureka Centre, historic site of the miner’s rebellion. Your day will finish with the most spectacular view from the Melbourne Skydeck, 88 floors up in the Eureka Tower!

Explore the best of Ballarat and its surroundings on a day trip. Visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Sovereign Hill, the Ballarat Art Gallery, and Lake Wendouree.

This service is managed by Ibuzz International and it network partners. Our drivers are experienced, friendly and caring. This is a private hire chauffeur service. They are diligent in the work and services they provide. They are punctual and reliable.

Discover the gold rush charm of Ballarat and delve into its history at Sovereign Hill. Explore Werribee Mansion and learn local history on a day trip from Melbourne with tickets included.

Discover local produce, intriguing local foodie history, gin distilleries, and unique dishes. A progressive degustation - so a light lunch, hot drink and gin tastings are included. Meet passionate local distillers, discover Ballarat’s rich food heritage, the underground Goldrush bakery and explore tucked-away laneways. Savour a curated tasting menu of Ballarat’s finest. Taste your way through a progressive menu featuring local cheeses, small-batch spirits, wood-fired pizza, and something sweet to finish Enjoy exclusive access to a historic venue rarely open to the public as well as a hidden speakeasy! Perfect for couples of all ages, groups of friends and solo travellers. Small groups ensure a fun and engaging time, with plenty of mysterious tales told during your journey. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult, (not recommended for young children). Alcohol served only to people 18+. Easily catch the train to Ballarat, the tour starts at the Ballarat Railway station.

Experienced and courteous chauffeurs. Well-appointed vehicle to get you to and from Melbourne Airport in style. Providing a door-to-door transfer service. 2-4 passengers can be catered for.

Gold was discovered in Ballarat in 1851, triggering the greatest alluvial gold rush the world has ever known. Unearth the riches of the gold rush and delve into Victorian heritage.

Take a break from the city and explore the Grampians National Park. See waterfalls, wild kangaroos, and mountain views. Enjoy short walks, fresh air, peaceful nature, in one day. Perfect, rightt?

Experience Melbourne’s highlights in style with Personalized Luxury Private Tours. Tailored itineraries, luxury vehicles, and exclusive service for up to 24 guests make every journey unforgettable.

Experience the captivating history of Australia's gold rush era with the Sovereign Hill & Ballarat Gold Mine Tour from Melbourne. Then, explore the breathtaking views of the 12 apostles.

Explore the best of Melbourne and its surroundings on a 5-day tour. Visit Ballarat, the Grampians, the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island Penguin Parade and the Puffing Billy Yarra Valley