Viator Rating : 5 (137 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 9.0/10 (Verified Excellent)
Melbourne
Melbourne's Dark Past: A Crime & Lolly Shop Walking Tour
120
Overview
Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops explores Melbourne's 1870s-1930s underworld, focusing on 'Little Lon' and its female-led crime. Led by historian Michael Shelford, discover brothels, sly grog shops, and gangster stories like Squizzy Taylor, with tour booklet included. Perfect for history buffs! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (10 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (10 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (9 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Instagram Factor (6 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Expertly Guided by Historian: Led by writer and historian Michael Shelford, ensuring a factual and engaging experience.
Uncover Hidden Histories: Explore the notorious 'Little Lon' district and its secrets of crime and vice.
Tour Booklet Included: Take home a booklet featuring photos and details about the characters and locations visited.
Female Gangster Focus: Learn about the powerful women who ran Melbourne's underworld during the 1870s-1930s.
Sentiment Analysis
Engaging historical narratives
-
Knowledgeable guide
-
Intriguing subject matter
-
Well-researched content
Walking may be tiring for some
-
Weather dependent
Review Summary
People find this Melbourne Historical Walking Tour engaging and informative, highlighting the guide's deep knowledge and storytelling that brings the city's underworld history to life. Positive feedback often mentions the easy walking pace and fascinating stories about gangsters and the unique role of lolly shops as fronts for crime. Some reviews note the rich detail and the booklet included as helpful supplements. There are no significant negative comments about logistics or accessibility, but travelers are reminded to bring their own food and drinks since these are not provided.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Melbourne
$129
Melbourne's Culture Unveiled: An Immersive Walking Tour Experience
4.9
(1435 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Complete Melbourne Walking Tour dives into Australia’s cultural heart. Explore Melbourne with a local guide, uncovering the city's history and hidden gems. Enjoy a coffee break and conclude near the Old Melbourne Gaol, learning about infamous bushranger. Cap off the tour at an Aussie pub for traditional food.
Melbourne
$175
Yarra Valley Delights: Wine, Chocolate, Cheese & Kangaroo Adventure!
5.0
(203 reviews)
Duration: 420
minutes
The Yarra Valley Afternoon tour offers a sensory journey through Victoria's delights. Indulge in cheese and chocolate tastings, sample wines at Yering Station, and explore Domaine Chandon (lunch at own expense). Conclude your day with a unique wild kangaroo safari. An amazing afternoon experience, perfect for a late start.
Melbourne
$162
Melbourne's Multicultural Flavors: A Secret Foodie Adventure
4.9
(296 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
Secret Food Tours Melbourne unveils the city's culinary soul through hidden laneways. A local guide leads you through multicultural tastes from street food treasures to wine, cheese, and chocolate tastings. Experience the heart of Melbourne's diverse food scene, unveiling secret spots.
Melbourne
$159
Sunset Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne
4.9
(1079 reviews)
The Great Ocean Road Full-Day Sunset Eco Tour from Melbourne lets travelers see amazing views. It takes people along the Great Ocean Road, with stops at places like Anglesea, Lorne, and the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch. This tour is for people who want to see the famous 12 Apostles at sunset without big crowds.
The tour guides know a lot about the area and are friendly. People can listen to a guide in 16 different languages, including German, Italian, French, Russian, and Spanish. The tour goes later in the day, so there are fewer people when seeing the 12 Apostles at sunset. The small group size, only 24 people, makes the tour more personal. The bus has comfy seats and good views.
Stops include Kennett River to spot koalas and Loch Ard Gorge. The "Journey Through Time" shows old pictures, adding to the tour. This trip includes hotel pickup, Wi-Fi on the bus, and a satisfaction promise. Food and drinks are not included.
Melbourne
$155
Phillip Island Penguin Parade: An Unforgettable Wildlife Encounter
4.9
(418 reviews)
Phillip Island & Penguin Parade tour offers a mesmerizing nature experience. Witness the iconic Penguin Parade, where little penguins waddle ashore. Explore the Nobbies and Seal Rocks with stunning coastal views. The tour includes convenient perks like onboard Wi-Fi and an informative guide for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
Melbourne
$165
Reverse Great Ocean Road: Eco Tour to the 12 Apostles
4.9
(505 reviews)
Duration: 780
minutes
The 12 Apostles Great Ocean Road Eco Tour offers a reverse route to avoid crowds. Enjoy iconic views in the morning light, explore rainforests and seaside villages, spot wild Koalas, and marvel at cliff top lookouts. Includes lunch, WiFi, and a professional guide for an immersive experience.
Nearby Events
LN, TM and Mosh HQ
Dec 31
8:00 PMProducts AUS Test Event: Theatre & Musical at LN, TM & Mosh HQ
Products AUS Test Event with Fees brings a vibrant fusion of theatre and musical performance to LN, TM and Mosh HQ in Collingwood, VIC. This unique event showcases the latest creative works from emerging Australian artists, blending storytelling, music, and theatrical flair in an intimate setting that highlights the group’s evolving reputation for innovative live experiences.
LN, TM and Mosh HQ is known for supporting experimental and boundary-pushing performances, making it the perfect backdrop for this dynamic showcase. The venue’s commitment to the arts and its reputation for hosting memorable events ensures a night filled with creativity and energy.
Marvel Stadium
Nov 27
5:00 PMHarry Styles Together, Together at Marvel Stadium
Harry Styles: Together, Together lights up Marvel Stadium with the international superstar's long-awaited global residency, featuring special guests Fousheé and Baby J. Following his GRAMMY-winning Love On Tour and the release of his fourth album Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally. on March 6, 2026, this pop spectacle promises hits from Aperture and fan favorites in an intimate yet massive stadium setting.
Harry Styles captivates with his signature charisma, blending pop anthems and emotional ballads that have defined his solo career post-One Direction. Marvel Stadium, Docklands' premier venue, offers state-of-the-art acoustics and panoramic views for an immersive experience.
Churchill Island
Jan 09
12:00 PMBook Ocean Sounds Festival 2027 at Churchill Island
Ocean Sounds 2027, presented by Ocean Sounds Festival, takes place at Churchill Island (also known as Phillip Island) in Newhaven, Victoria. This annual family-friendly sunset concert series brings Australia's most iconic live music to a picturesque coastal setting, headlined by Missy Higgins, The Living End, and Pete Murray. The event celebrates ten years of quality music, gourmet food vans, local wines, and stunning ocean views as the summer sun sets over the water.
Ocean Sounds Festival is a beloved all-day music-lovers' experience returning for its 10th edition, featuring 17 ARIA Award-winning and 67+ award-winning artists. Attendees bring picnic rugs, good vibes, and enjoy a relaxed, atmospheric environment with quality music and local produce. Churchill Island is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, historic significance as the first European settlement in Victoria, and breathtaking sunset ocean vistas that frame the festival experience perfectly.
LN, TM and Mosh HQ NZL Test
Dec 31
12:00 PMSecure Tickets: Collingwood Civic Event
LN, TM and Mosh HQ NZL Test lights up Collingwood, NZ, with a captivating community gathering at this historic venue. This miscellaneous civic event promises an engaging mix of local culture and excitement, drawing crowds for its unique blend of community spirit and entertainment in the heart of New Zealand.
The LN, TM and Mosh HQ NZL Test event celebrates civic and community vibes, perfect for those seeking meaningful experiences. Collingwood's venue echoes the grandeur of Auckland's iconic Civic Theatre, known for its 1920s architecture and major acts that make every visit unforgettable.
Palais Theatre
Nov 23
7:30 PMBook Dan and Phil Live: Hard Launch Tour at Palais Theatre
Dan and Phil bring their Hard Launch World Tour to the iconic Palais Theatre in St Kilda, offering fans a unique comedy and theatre experience celebrating their new era of oversharing. As the duo embarks on a major international run visiting North America, Australia, Asia, and Europe, this Australian leg marks a pivotal moment for their global fanbase.
Known for their 'unhinged and unafraid' podcast Hard Launch, Dan and Phil (Daniel Howell and Phil Lester) have evolved from online stars to live performance icons, drawing audiences with their signature blend of humor and intimacy. The Palais Theatre, a historic Melbourne landmark renowned for its grand architecture and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect stage for this unforgettable evening of comedy and arts.
The Night Cat
Feb 04
7:30 PMSawyer Hill - Everybody's Home, Nobody's Happy Tour
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Melbourne
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Melbourne From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Bus Tours & Pop in Melbourne. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Melbourne Activities