Walking Tour: Melbourne Through a French Lens

Join us for a fascinating walking tour that uncovers the city's surprising French connections, hidden stories and cultural influences, all seen through a distinctly French eye.
Wander through Melbourne's laneways, landmarks and lesser-known corners as history, culture and curiosity come together in an engaging journey of discovery. Along the way, enjoy a selection of delightful French touches that will awaken your senses and transport you, if only for a moment, to the streets of France.
Expect stories that intrigue, places that surprise, and moments that invite you to slow down, savour and see Melbourne differently. This is more than a walking tour, it's an immersive cultural experience celebrating the spirit, influence and joie de vivre of France in the heart of Melbourne.
The tour will depart from the Redmond Barry Statue outside the State Library of Victoria at 10am and finish at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins in the Atrium Bar.
Please arrive 15mins before the Tour is due to depart.

Please note that this tour involves extensive walking and may not be suitable for children under the age of 12.

Duration: 2 hours to 2 1/2hrs

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This Walking Tour event is being held as part of the 2026 Bastille Day French Festival.

Let's meet under The Eiffel Tower! The Bastille Day French Festival returns to the iconic Queen Victoria Market Sheds C & D on Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July.

Walk into a wintry French town square right in the heart of Melbourne. Browse the bustling market brimming with local French-Australian producers, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine; think flaky croissants, melting raclette, and a very good vin chaud and lose yourself in the sights and sounds of dazzling live performers.

This year’s highlights? Gather your crew for a game of pétanque: the ultimate excuse to stand around in the cold with a glass of mulled wine, or simply sit down and enjoy our range of French music from the Main Stage.

Round out the fun and experience with Les Lumières talks, hands-on masterclasses in our cultural program and more!

C’est la vie at its finest. Swap your beanie for a beret and rendezvous at the Bastille Day French Festival Melbourne 2026!

À bientôt au Festival!

To find out more, visit: https://www.bastilledaymelbourne.com/