Top Ballarat How to Get Around in 2026

Located a 2-hour drive from Melbourne, J Ward Lunatic Asylum once served as Australia’s home for the criminally insane. Take a 2-hour ghost tour with a guide who shares the stories of notorious prisoners such as Chopper Read, Gary Webb, and William Wallace. Walk around the property while hearing about the restless souls that are rumored to roam there, and learn about reports of the supernatural that have occurred on the grounds. You can also visit the museum before or after your tour.

Explore the history of Daylesford township and hear the stories of those who built the city into what it is now with Alice’s Journey’s guided walking tours. You will learn about the region’s Italianate and Grand Victorian gardens and architecture, the diverse communities, stories of local women, the history of the area’s natural resources, and here legends of its notorious inhabitants.

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)

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!

Discover Ballarat through the spirited women who helped shape the city, and those making their mark today. Led by passionate local guide Emma, this 1.5-hour slow-travel walking tour takes you down historic streets and hidden laneways to uncover inspiring stories of ambition, creativity, courage, and everyday ingenuity. From the 1800s goldfields to the present day, hear fascinating tales of women who built thriving businesses, challenged expectations, and brought communities together, including Tilly Thompson, Victoria's first travelling saleswoman, alongside lesser-known local trailblazers. Brought to life with historic photographs and family memories, this intimate small-group experience concludes in Ballarat Central with a complimentary Ballarat art print for every guest to take home as a keepsake.

Discover Ballarat at a slower pace with this curated 2-day boutique escape, combining local stories, beautiful heritage and one of the city’s most distinctive stays. Begin with a privately hosted vintage high tea picnic in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, overlooking Lake Wendouree. Relax over sweet and savoury treats served with vintage teaware, hear stories of the gardens, and enjoy a ride on Ballarat’s historic tram. Spend the night at Hotel Vera, a beautifully restored heritage residence where contemporary design meets Victorian character. With breakfast included the following morning, there’s time to slow down and enjoy the experience. On Day 2, join Hidden Lanes’ signature group Ballarat City Tales walking tour, uncovering hidden laneways, grand architecture and fascinating stories of the people that shaped gold-rush Ballarat. With the details taken care of, this intimate escape is an invitation to experience Ballarat differently — unhurried, personal and full of character.