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Ballarat VIC, Australia

Ballarat

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Welcome to Ballarat, where history meets modern charm! This vibrant city in Victoria, Australia, is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and lively arts scene. Don't miss exploring the famous Sovereign Hill outdoor museum, sipping coffee in trendy cafes, and strolling around the picturesque Lake Wendouree. Get ready for a memorable adventure in Ballarat!

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Recommendations

Outdoor4.7/5

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Nestled by Lake Wendouree, Ballarat Botanical Gardens boasts stunning displays of flora, including the iconic Prime Ministers Avenue, and offers a tranquil escape with its picturesque landscapes and rich historical heritage, making it a must-visit destination.

Culture4.5/5

Sovereign Hill

Step back in time at Sovereign Hill, a recreated 1850s gold rush town in Ballarat. Pan for gold, chat with costumed characters, and watch blacksmiths and confectioners in action. Don't forget to visit the underground mines and try traditional sweets at the lolly shop. It's a goldmine of fun for history buffs and families!

Outdoor4.8/5

Lake Wendouree

Nestled in Ballarat, Lake Wendouree is renowned for its picturesque views, vibrant gardens, and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying scenic sunsets.

Outdoor

Wildlife Park

Discover the charm of Wildlife Park in Ballarat East, VIC, where you can engage with native Australian animals up close, making it an unforgettable experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Culture4.7/5

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Housed in a stunning heritage building, the Art Gallery of Ballarat boasts Australia's oldest and largest public art collection, showcasing remarkable works that celebrate both historical and contemporary artistry, making it a must-visit cultural gem.

Culture4.7/5

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Transport4/5

Ballarat Station

Shop4.1/5

Creswick Woollen Mills - Creswick

Creswick Woollen Mills, a historic Australian icon, offers a unique blend of heritage and craftsmanship, showcasing exquisite wool products and a captivating glimpse into the art of textile manufacturing, making it a must-visit destination.

Transport5/5

Eureka Stockade Memorial Park

Eat$$4.3/5

The Forge Pizzeria

Eat4.5/5

Moon & Mountain

Cafe$$4.5/5

The Turret Cafe & Catering

Cafe$$4.4/5

Hydrant Food Hall

Cafe4.1/5

The Lane Cafe

Cafe$$4.5/5

Yellow Espresso

Cafe$$4.5/5

L'espresso

Drink$$4.5/5

North Britain Hotel

Cafe$$4.7/5

Eclectic Tastes Cafe & Pantry

Stays

Stay5/5

Ballarat Central B&B

Nestled in the heart of Ballarat Central, this charming B&B offers a blend of historic elegance and modern comfort, making it the perfect base for exploring the region’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Stay4.75/5

Ballarat Cottages

Nestled in the charming Brown Hill, Ballarat Cottages offers a unique blend of comfort and heritage, featuring beautifully restored accommodations that reflect the rich history of the Gold Rush era, making it a must-visit destination.

Stay4.55/5

Ballarat Premier Apartments

Offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, Ballarat Premier Apartments captivates visitors with its elegant design and prime location near local attractions, making it the perfect retreat in the heart of Ballarat Central.

Stay4.35/5

Oscar's Hotel & Cafe Bar

Nestled in the heart of Ballarat, Oscar's Hotel & Cafe Bar captivates visitors with its historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional dining options, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers alike.

Stay4.2/5

Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments - 18 Grove

Stay4.2/5

NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park

Nestled in Ballarat, the NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park offers serene surroundings, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the iconic Sovereign Hill, making it a perfect getaway for adventure and relaxation seekers alike.

Stay3.95/5

Quality Inn & Suites The Menzies

Stay3.8/5

Mercure Ballarat - Hotel & Convention Centre

Stay3.6/5

Peppinella Motel

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5
2 h 15 mins

Ballarat City Tales Walking Tour

Step beyond the main streets and discover a side of Ballarat that most visitors walk straight past. This guided walking tour brings the city’s Gold Rush history to life through the places it actually happened - from grand Victorian buildings to tucked-away laneways and overlooked corners filled with stories. Led by a local guide in period Victorian attire, the experience is personal, relaxed and engaging, focusing on the details, characters and moments that give Ballarat its distinctive atmosphere. Midway through the tour, pause for a coffee, hot chocolate or chai inside one of Ballarat’s oldest hotels, before continuing to explore more hidden corners of the city. You’ll also receive a small locally designed Ballarat art print to take home. The walk runs for approximately 2-2.5 hours (around 1.5km) at an easy pace with regular stops. Suitable for couples, solo travellers and small groups. Children under 6 are free (drink not included).

$71.29
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5/5
6 h

Daylesford Private Wine Tours

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!

$1,260.12
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5/5
1 h

Cammino di Hepburn (Hepburn Walking Tour) at 4.30pm each Friday

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)

$47.52
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3.2/5
10 h

Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour

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!

$136.09
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4.4/5
2 h

GRAMPIANS: J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

Dare to enter the dark heart of Australia’s criminal past at J Ward Lunatic Asylum—the notorious home for the criminally insane. Once housing Victoria’s most dangerous men, including infamous figures like Chopper Read, Gary Webb, and William Wallace, this forbidding institution hides a legacy of madness, murder, and misery within its cold blue-stone walls. Creep through the governor’s private bathroom, stand beneath the hangman’s gallows, and feel the chill of the original kitchen and shower block where whispers of the past still echo. Venture through the haunted West Wing, the eerie J Ward Block, abandoned exercise yards, and shadowy grave sites—where prisoners lie buried beneath unmarked soil. This is not just a tour… it’s a descent into Australia’s most haunted asylum, where the line between the living and the dead is terrifyingly thin.

$29.52
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5/5
1 h 30 mins

Alices Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford 2.30pmFRI 11.30amSAT

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

$47.52
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4.8/5
3 h

Magic Men Cabaret Ladies Night

Get ready, Melbourne – the Magic Men are hitting the stage for a night you’ll never forget! This high-energy, jaw-dropping show is the #1 male revue in Australia, combining cheeky charm, chiseled bodies, and theatrical flair to bring you the perfect blend of burlesque, cabaret, and dance. Whether it’s a hen’s party, birthday, girls' night, or you’re just in need of some unapologetic fun, this is your invitation to let loose. Expect: -Australia’s hottest and most talented male performers -Interactive routines, themed acts, and crowd participation -Live music, thumping beats, and sexy choreography -VIP options with front-row seating, complimentary drinks & more -Meet & greet and photo ops with the Magic Men cast after the show It’s more than a show – it’s a full-blown experience that celebrates fun, friendship, and fierce femininity. Don’t just hear about it – come see what the hype is all about!

$46.80
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5/5
36 h

Private Great Ocean Road Tour – One-Day & Multi-Day Options

Culture Quest Tours is for travellers who want the Great Ocean Road to feel personal, not simply completed. Your group travels privately, with the experience shaped around your interests and pace. The one-day option covers the essential highlights: the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, dramatic coastal viewpoints, an ancient rainforest walk and opportunities to spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild. Those wanting greater depth can choose two days, allowing time for quieter places, waterfalls and more rainforest, plus the Bay of Martyrs, Bay of Islands and Timboon—areas rarely reached on a return day tour from Melbourne. Flexible stops give couples, families, mature guests and photographers more time for nature, wildlife or the right photograph, without following a larger group’s schedule. Optional local food and wine, premium accommodation and a scenic helicopter flight can transform the two-day itinerary into a distinctive coastal escape, supported by knowledgeable private guiding.

$432.04
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3 h

Ballarat Vintage Fashion history & shopping tour

Uncover the glamour and forgotten secrets of Ballarat's style past on this curated 3-hour guided walking tour! Perfect for vintage lovers, you'll explore the city's finest hidden antique and vintage shops while enjoying exclusive 10-15% shopping discounts. Delve into intriguing tales of the powerful, trailblazing women who shaped Australia's fashion industry—such as Tilly Thompson, Victoria's first travelling saleswoman. Wrap up your elegant slow-travel afternoon with a complimentary local crafted gin & tonic (or bubbly/non-alcoholic drink) and a sweet treat at a stylish 1920s-style bar. Every guest also takes home a beautiful, custom Ballarat art print as a keepsake!

$62.65
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2 h

Melbourne Flower Market Tour & Floral Design Experience

At the National Flower Centre in Epping, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of floristry with an engaging floral demonstration and hands-on workshop led by renowned floral designer Victoria Whitelaw. Explore the flower market with Victoria, savour a delicious pastry and coffee, and take advantage of exclusive wholesale prices on flowers to bring home. This early-morning experience is perfect for flower enthusiasts looking to deepen their skills and knowledge in a unique setting. - Hands-on floral workshop and demonstration by expert Victoria Whitelaw - Guided tour of the bustling flower market in Epping - Enjoy a complimentary pastry and coffee during the session - Opportunity to purchase flowers at wholesale prices for your own arrangements

$176.42
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4.9/5
2 h

Tae Rak (Lake Condah) 2-Hour Cultural Tour

A guided tour of Tae Rak (Lake Condah) gives visitors an overview of the ancient and unique World Heritage Listed Budj Bin Cultural Landscape. Your guide will give you an overview of the Gunditjmara creation story and point out the extensive marine and birdlife of the lake. See ancient aquaculture system of lava flows and life-filled waterways and kooyang (eel) traps designed by the Gunditjmara, who have thrived here for more than 39,000 years, sustained by the living knowledge of their ancestors.

$64.09
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4.2/5
1 h

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures Treetop Walk Admission Ticket

The 600 metre-long, 25 - 30 metre-high elevated walkway provides unrivalled views of the unique beauty of the region’s flora and fauna, from the rainforest floor up into the soaring heights of the treetops. Don’t miss the 47 metre tall Spiral Tower and the cantilever perched above Young’s Creek – a truly exhilarating experience as you gently sway with the rainforest canopy.

$21.60
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1 h 15 mins

Meet Personable Locals at the Hanging Gardens of Brunswick

Everyone's been to a café; everyone's been to a gallery; but do you want to hang out with some real locals? Maybe you meet someone in a pub and chat for 2 minutes. Maybe you try chewing the ear off your tour guide while they nod politely. If you don't want to waste your time though, you can book a slot here at the Gardens with confidence you'll actually be spending quality time with animated locals who are actually interested in having a yarn with you. It's an authentic taste of the neighbourhood that no guidebook can capture. Plus, you'll get insider knowledge about the area, saving you time and money.

$180.02
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5/5

Australia’s Great Ocean Road Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Drive Australia’s legendary Great Ocean Road with this self-guided audio tour. Stand before the towering 12 Apostles, uncover shipwreck tales at Loch Ard Gorge, and see nature’s handiwork at London Arch. Wind inland through rainforest to the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse. Hear stories of explorers, coastal drama, and ocean-carved wonders as you follow one of the world’s most scenic routes at your own pace. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

$16.99
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5/5
4 h

Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill in Yarra Valley

Experience a unique helicopter tour paired with a winery lunch & wine tasting experience at Levantine Hill Estate in the Yarra Valley. Your Yarra Valley winery experience begins with a scenic helicopter ride over the rooftops of Melbourne's eastern suburbs and on to stunning views of Mount Dandenong and the rolling green hills of the Yarra Valley. As you approach the winery, your pilot will land directly on the front lawn of the stunning Levantine Hill Estate. Take a short stroll to the Levantine Hill restaurant for an exquisite shared dining experience of five courses including a wine tasting of Levantine Hill's premium estate wines. The perfect surprise gift for a special birthday or wedding anniversary, spend a romantic and relaxing day at one of the finest wineries in the Yarra Valley with private helicopter transfers to and from Melbourne.

$1,360.92
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4 h

Private Helicopter Winery Lunch at Jack Rabbit on the Bellarine

Sitting atop the Bellarine Peninsula with panoramic views of Melbourne and Geelong, Jack Rabbit has received multiple food, winery and tourism awards recognising their fine-dining and lunch menu at the Jack Rabbit Restaurant. Jack Rabbit has received multiple awards for their cool-climate wines picked directly from their vineyard. Their highly recommended wine varieties include the Jack Rabbit Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé and Cabernet Shiraz. Enjoy a 35 minute scenic helicopter ride from Melbourne before your private landing at the vineyard. Take your seat for a three course fine-dining lunch with notable dishes including smoked kangaroo loin, confit duck leg, sweetcorn fondant and warm pear and ginger quinoa cake. Jack Rabbit has also introduced a vegan menu to cater for guests looking for a vegan or gluten-free lunch. With amazing food and award-winning wines, Jack Rabbit is the perfect location to escape by helicopter for wine tour on the Bellarine Peninsula.

$1,576.94
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1 h 15 mins

Remedial Massage at Cheltenham Melbourne

Experience a rejuvenating remedial massage in a tranquil spa setting, where every detail is designed for your comfort. Unlike a standard massage, this treatment is customised to your body’s needs—targeting sore muscles, releasing deep tension, and restoring movement. Your therapist combines expert knowledge with personalised care, using professional techniques to relieve pain and support recovery. Relax on a plush massage table, surrounded by calming music and warm ambient lighting, as you feel stress melt away. Perfect for travellers seeking not just relaxation, but real results that last beyond the session.

$68.41
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4.3/5
24 h

Sovereign Hill General Entry Ticket

Step back in time at Sovereign Hill. There’s coach rides, gold panning, a spectacular gold pour, underground mine adventures, theatre shows, sweet making, costume characters and musket firing demonstrations to name a few.

$48.96
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5/5

Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Private Day Tour

What sets the Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles tour apart is the intimate and personalized experience of a small-group private journey. Forget the crowds and rigid schedules of large coaches. We prioritize your comfort and preferences, allowing for: Flexible Itinerary: Spend more time at the sights that captivate you most. Direct Pick-up: Convenient door-to-door service from your Melbourne accommodation. Exclusive Moments: Enjoy iconic locations with fewer people, maximizing photo opportunities and tranquil moments. Book with us for a truly bespoke and memorable exploration of Australia's most stunning coastline.

$280.11
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4.5/5
14 h

Mt Buller Getaway Day Trip: Daily Departures & 6 Hrs Fun on Snow

Escape to the breathtaking slopes of Mt Buller on our exciting one-day snow trip! With daily departures from convenient pickup points in Melbourne CBD and Box Hill, you'll travel in comfort with an experienced driver. Enjoy a short stop in Yea before heading straight towards the Mt Buller mountain area, helping you maximise your time on snow. Mt Buller resort entry is included. - Daily departures to Mt Buller, travel in comfort with our experienced driver. - Warm up with complimentary hot water on board. - Enjoy a day on Mt Buller and winter activities available within the resort. - No lengthy rental stop before reaching the mountain. - Driver provides information regarding rental locations and resort facilities.

$58.33
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