Melbourne River Cruises (tel. 03/8610 2600; www.melbcruises.com.au) offers a range of boat trips up and down the Yarra River, taking from 1 to 2 hours. It’s a really interesting way to get a feel for the city, and the tours include commentaries. Tours from the city to Williamstown cost A$22 for adults, A$11 for kids 4 to 14, or A$50 for a family of four. Or you can take a 2-hour Melbourne Highlights tour for A$29 adults, A$16 kids, or A$75 families. Call ahead to confirm cruise departure times, as they change, and pick up tickets from the blue Melbourne River Cruises kiosks at the Federation Square riverfront (opposite Flinders St. Station) or on the river at Southgate (on the lower promenade at South Bank).

Real Melbourne Bike Tours (tel. 0417/339 203 mobile phone; www.rentabike.net.au/biketours) can help you find your bearings and discover some of hidden Melbourne—the back streets and bluestone lanes, markets, cafes, arcades, and bike paths. Run by former journalist Murray Johnson, tours are fun and interesting. The cost is A$110 adults and A$79 children ages 12 to 18, including bike hire, helmet, guided tour, and coffee and cake and lunch along the way. Theres even an option to ride an electric bike if you dont want to work up a sweat! Tours leave at 10am (or other times by arrangement) from Rentabike at Federation Square and return around 2pm. Tours can be customized to suit your needs. Bookings are essential.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.