Overview
Melbourne has always been a city that takes its beer seriously—and in Australian Traveller’s 2025 feature, A Beer Lover’s Guide to the Best Pubs in Melbourne (and Breweries), the spotlight is squarely on the venues that do it best. Whether you’re sipping a freshly poured pale ale, exploring limited-edition stouts, or just enjoying a classic pint in a cosy pub corner, this guide is your ultimate companion for all things beer in Melbourne.
The article blends old-school pub charm with the innovation of modern craft brewing. Expect heritage-listed hotels with beer garden magic alongside urban breweries pushing the boundaries with bold, hop-forward creations. Each venue on the list has been chosen not just for what’s in the glass, but for the atmosphere, food, and dedication to the craft.
The feature spans beloved inner-city haunts in Fitzroy, Collingwood, and the CBD, to brewery hubs in the north and west where the beer is made onsite and the taps are always rotating. You’ll find dog-friendly beer gardens, gastropub-style kitchens, brewery tours, and locals-only taprooms that are hidden gems even for Melburnians.
From sessionable lagers to robust porters and creative small-batch brews, there’s something here for every palate and every kind of beer drinker. Plus, many spots focus on sustainability, local ingredients, and supporting independent producers—making every sip just that bit more satisfying.
Whether you’re a travelling taster or a lifelong local looking to broaden your beer horizons, Australian Traveller’s 2025 guide is the perfect excuse to explore the city one pint at a time.
Last update July 2025
