melbourne day trips by train

10 excellent day trips from Melbourne by train

Horrified by rising petrol prices but keen to get out of the city? Here are some fun day trips from Melbourne by train. Sit back, relax and watch the world slip by as you travel onward for a new adventure.

While nothing beats an Australian road trip, the price of petrol is definitely a hot contender.

Fortunately, here in Victoria, there are plenty of options for day trips from Melbourne by train.

To sweeten the deal, V/Line (our country link trains) tickets have been massively reduced.

This makes train travel in Victoria not only the most eco-friendly option for getting around – it’s currently the cheapest.

Read on to discover the best train journeys from Melbourne and start planning your own adventure.

Day trips from Melbourne by train

This guide to Melbourne’s best day trips by train contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may make small commission, at no extra cost to you.

What you need to know about catching trains in Victoria

To access train travel across Victoria you will need a myki travel card .

You can purchase these directly from:

• myki machines at selected stations and stops
• some shops, including 7-Elevens
• online (your myki may take up to two weeks to arrive).

See a full list of locations where you can buy and top up a mykI .

How much does a myki cost, you might ask? Annoyingly, the physical card does have a price:

• Full-fare: $6
• Concession/child/senior: $3.

These cards also expire, unless you keep them regularly topped up with ‘myki money’. This is simply money you add to your card via cash or debit/credit card payment.

Note: myki cards are valid for train travel in Victoria only . Public transport is managed by state governments in Australia, so each separate state and territory has their own cards, fares and system.

Now, let’s explore some of the best day trips from Melbourne without a car.

Ballarat is an excellent choice for a day trip from Melbourne by train.

For starters, it’s a quick journey. You can hop on the V/Line train from Southern Cross or Footscray and be stepping off onto the platform of Ballarat station in around 1.5 hours later.

The station is located centrally, so you’re a stone’s throw from many of the regional city’s best sites, such as the Art Gallery and the gorgeous gold rush-era architecture along its main streets.

Sovereign Hill, another main attraction is a little bit of a walk, along with the Botanic Gardens. Buy a ticket for Sovereign Hill in advance .

If the gardens are indeed your destination, I recommend getting off one stop later at Wendouree.

Belly rumbling? I recommend heading to Armstrong Street. There are plenty of food options there. The Spanish tapas at Meigas are excellent. If you fancy a wee stroll, Clothesline Cafe put on a great spread too.

For the perfect day trip, check out this extensive list of things to do in Ballarat .

Bendigo is another great place in Victoria to visit by train.

It’s around a two hour trip, departing from Southern Cross or Footscray.

There are plenty of things to do in Bendigo once you get there. Drop into another great regional art gallery or ride the talking tram .

Learn about the town’s gold rush history at Golden Dragon Museum and Central Deborah Gold Mine .

For food, you’re spoiled for choice. Bendigo was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2019 and the eating options are certainly next level. Grab delicious croissants at Harvest . Settle in for lunch at Hoo-gah , or Old Green Bean . If you’re vego or vegan, you’ll love Adam & Eve , the city’s only vegan cafe.

How to spend a week in Melbourne

The best places to visit in Victoria

Amazing day hikes near Melbourne

Dandenong Ranges (via Belgrave)

The Dandenongs as they’re known, are an excellent spot for a day trip from the city, particularly by train.

There are some excellent walks to do, gardens to explore and places to eat, such as the Pig & Whistle Tavern , Cognoscenti and Olinda Tea House .

To get to the Dandenong Ranges by train, catch a metro train from Flinders Street Station to Belgrave.

Popular attraction Puffing Billy departs from Belgrave Station, so if that’s what you want to do, you’re right where you need to be. Buy a ticket in advance for Puffing Billy .

From Belgrave, hop on bus 694 to travel further into the ranges, to townships like Olinda and Sassafras.

Just make sure you don’t catch a train to the suburb Dandenong, which confusingly has the same name as the mountain range while being a good half hour drive away from them.

Discover more things to do in the Dandenong Ranges .

Warburton (via Lilydale)

This is a day trip from Melbourne by train and bus which takes a bit of time, but can be very rewarding.

Warburton is a township, a village really on the edge of Melbourne. It’s close to some beautiful nature trails, a waterfall and home to an interesting range of boutique stores.

It’s also a great spot to visit for autumn leaf chasing in Victoria .

To get there, catch a train from Flinders to Lilydale. Hop on bus 683 to travel onward to Warburton.

Alternatively, bring your bike and ride from Lilydale to the village, via the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail.

Once you’re there, grab a cup of joe at Silva Coffee Roasters , poke around town, then hike to La La Falls.

Let’s get back to the basics now. Train journeys from Melbourne, where you travel from A to B and you’re there.

Geelong is a very easy train ride out from Southern Cross, taking around an hour on the V/Line.

There’s a ton of stuff to do in this beachside city. Indeed, if the weather is fine, go to Eastern Beach, admiring the quirky bollards along the way.

It’s a great destination for kids, with a dedicated pool, fun fair activities and a hop on, hop off train.

Adults can head into town to grab Asian-fusion dumplings at Bahjong or southern American cuisine at Pistol Pete’s .

For a cheeky tipple, check out Geelong Cellar Door .

For more, check out the local art gallery , or perhaps pay a spooky visit to Geelong Gaol , now a museum.

You can have a great day out in Werribee, especially with the kids.

To get to Werribee, simply jump on a metro train. Most are express to the area.

From there, you can catch buses out to most destinations. Werribee Park Mansion feels very ‘two for the price of one’, as it is right next to the State Rose Garden .

Werribee Zoo is a day trip in itself. Catch bus 439 straight there from the train station. Spend the day, or perhaps even stay overnight .

Buy a zoo ticket in advance .

Things to do in the Yarra Valley

Small towns in Victoria worth visiting

An in-depth guide to the Great Ocean Road

Daylesford (via Woodend)

While I’d recommend Daylesford as a weekend getaway , it is possible to travel there by train and bus, for an ambitious day trip.

To get to Daylesford, travel along the V/Line to the town of Woodend.

From there, you can board a bus to Daylesford. The journey takes around two hours.

Daylesford’s town centre has plenty of interesting stores to poke around in, containing boutiques, books and antiques. Manteau Noir and Eclectic Notions are both delightful to have a rummage through for the latter.

If the weather is nice, head out to Lake Daylesford. For something very special, have a meal at renowned restaurant Lake House .

In town, Larder does a decent coffee and I like Cliffy’s Emporium for lunch.

Wombat Hill House is also rather lovely. And Daylesford Cider Co does great, well, cider and woodfire pizzas.

Discover more things to do in Daylesford and surrounds .

Day trips from Melbourne by train: Kyneton

Kyneton is another very easy day trip from Melbourne by train. Jump on the V/Line at Southern Cross or Footscray and you’ll be there in just over an hour.

Once there, there are plenty of things to get up to .

If you like the finer culinary things in life, stroll on to Piper Street. Feast at Fook Shing , Home Grown on Piper , or drop into Miss M’s Lounge for Spanish tapas.

Head to Animus Distillery for a gin masterclass or grab a vino from Musk Lane .

Castlemaine

Castlemaine is a very underrated destination in Victoria, which is also accessible via train journey from Melbourne.

Hop on the V/Line at Southern Cross and travel straight to the town. It’s around 1.5 hours.

Once there, ramble through secondhand wares at The Mill . Order pastries and pies from Johnny Baker .

For something special, head to Wild Food and Wine or Bar Midland for a menu focused on local produce.

If independent cinemas are your jam, catch a flick at the Theatre Royal . It’s also a bar, and live music venue.

French Island

French Island is a largely forgotten destination in Victoria.

A national park, it’s a sanctuary for both koalas and birdlife. The island is also completely off-grid, has no local council and is home to less than 150 people.

Once there, you can go say hi to the koalas (many of them hang about in the trees up the road from the General Store), or go for a cycle or a hike.

I do thoroughly recommend taking a set of two wheels with you to the island. Alternatively, you can rent a bike for the day from the General Store.

To get to French Island, catch a train from Melbourne’s CBD to Frankston. Once there, swap onto the train to Stony Point. The train journey takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.

The island itself is only accessible by ferry, which leaves from Stony Point and travels across to Tankerton jetty, a journey of around 15 minutes.

It costs around $30 per person (plus if you’re a Senior Card holder, you can travel on the weekend or on public holidays for free). This can be booked in advance or on the day.

This same ferry heads on to Cowes on Phillip Island.

You can take your bike on both the train and then, the ferry (for a few dollars more).

Discover more things to do on French Island .

What should you pack for a day trip from Melbourne by train?

Here’s what I recommend packing for a train journey from Melbourne:

• reusable drink bottle filled with water
• snacks for the train (none are sold onboard)
• sunscreen and hat
• something to read
• a light jumper
• spare emergency cash (most places accept card but just in case, it’s always smart to have a spare $20 in cash on your person).

See a full list of Australian travel essentials .

In conclusion: is it easy to take a day trip from Melbourne by train?

With petrol prices being quite frankly, through the roof, taking a train for a day trip from Melbourne is a much more economical alternative for travel.

And with so much of the state being accessible by public transport, well – why wouldn’t you?

What are your favourite destinations by train in Victoria?

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Things to do in Melbourne with kids

10 Day Trips From Melbourne By Train For A Family Day Out

Just a short train ride away from Melbourne CBD and its surrounds lies a treasure trove of diverse and picturesque destinations waiting to be explored for locals and tourists.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best day trips from Melbourne by train, particularly for families. No need to worry about parking, navigation, or traffic—simply hop on a train, enjoy the convenience and comfort and let the adventure begin! 

Note you’ll need a Myki card and it can be used for Victoria’s regional trains ( V/line ) as well. That means you can travel directly to your destination for less than $10 per person.

Best Day Trips By Train From Melbourne

1. ballarat.

Step back in time with a train trip to Ballarat , a city steeped in gold rush heritage. 

Explore the Sovereign Hill outdoor museum and immerse yourself in the 1850s gold rush experience – read our extensive review of Sovereign Hill for tips on how to make the most of your day. Pan for gold, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and get your olde worlde portrait taken. If you’re there in winter, don’t miss the Winter Wonderlights  – read our review of Sovereign Hill’s Christmas in July festivities. 

When visiting Ballarat with kids don’t forget to visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park , home to a wide variety of native Australian animals and check if there are children’s activities on at Ballarat Art Gallery . Kryal Castle , a medieval castle experience, is also a 15-minute taxi ride away (read our Kryal Castle review ). 

Read more tips on things to do in Ballarat with kids . 

To discover Ballarat’s rich history, catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Ballarat. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. Upon arrival in Ballarat, you can explore the city on foot or use local buses or taxis to reach specific attractions.

Looking for where to stay in Ballarat ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

2. Dandenong Ranges

For a refreshing escape into nature, catch a train to Belgrave in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. 

At Belgrave see a movie at the independent Cameo Cinema (they even have an outdoor cinema in summer) or visit the Belgrave Big Dreams Market that happens on the second Sunday of every month.

Don’t miss the iconic Puffing Billy Steam Railway , a heritage train that chugs through the beautiful forested landscapes. It heads to Emerald Lake where you can alight and ride a floating cycle bike, swim in the swimming pool in summer an explore the Emerald Lake Miniature Railway exhibition.

To explore more of the Dandenong Ranges you’ll need to travel by bus from Belgrave train station. For instance, marvel at the stunning panoramic views from the SkyHigh Mount Dandenong lookout (the 694 bus will take you there from Belgrave station), go bushwalking in the lush national parks, and explore the cute mountain towns of Olinda and Sassafras for tea shops, gifts, galleries and gardens.

To get to Belgrave take a train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station or Parliament station. The train journey takes around an hour. From Belgrave, you can easily access various attractions within the Dandenong Ranges, including the Puffing Billy Railway . Buy tickets to Puffing Billy Railway

Looking for where to stay in Dandenong Ranges? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

 3. Werribee

If you’re looking for a day trip from Melbourne that offers exciting wildlife encounters and family-friendly attractions, Werribee is the perfect destination. 

Once you arrive in Werribee, head to Wyndham Park for two stunning playgrounds along the Werribee River. Stroll or scoot along the Werribee River Trail and spot native wildlife and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is the big drawcard attraction in Werribee. Just note that the train station is not near the zoo so you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to get there. The award-winning zoo offers an immersive safari experience where you can encounter animals from Africa, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. You can even book a Werribee Zoo Deluxe Safari Adventure Experience for an up-close-and-personal encounter!

While you’re in the Werribee Park precinct , visit the Werribee Mansion and State Rose Garden . Explore the grand mansion, stroll through the stunning gardens, and enjoy a picnic on the picturesque grounds.

If your kids are water enthusiasts, head to the Werribee Outdoor Pool during summer, equipped with slides, splash zones, and shallow pools perfect for little swimmers. 

Wyndham Cultural Centre hosts a variety of family-friendly performances, including theatre, dance, and music events. Check the schedule in advance to see what shows or activities are available during your visit.

To reach Werribee, catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Werribee Station. The train journey takes approximately 35 minutes, making it a convenient option for a day trip with younger kids.

Looking for where to stay in Werribee? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Escape to the coast and discover Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, which offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and cultural experiences. 

Victoria’s second-largest city is easily accessible by train, and once you’re there stroll along Geelong’s picturesque waterfront precinct, soak in the atmosphere at Eastern Beach and visit the impressive cultural institutions such as Geelong Art Gallery and the National Wool Museum . 

Read more tips on things to do in Geelong with kids . 

For a day trip to Geelong, take a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Geelong. Trains to Geelong take approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and run frequently, allowing for flexibility in planning your itinerary. Once in Geelong, you can easily explore the city’s attractions on foot or catch a local bus to further destinations on the Bellarine Peninsula. On the Bellarine, you can explore the stunning beaches, go for a swim or surf, and explore the charming seaside towns of Queenscliff and Portarlington .

Looking for where to stay in Geelong? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Bendigo is a city brimming with culture, art, and architecture. 

Catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Bendigo for a journey that takes approximately 2 hours. 

On arrival, explore the awesome Discovery Science Centre , a hands-on science museum for kids. 

Also take the time to visit the renowned Bendigo Art Gallery and the surrounding Arts Precinct, delve into the city’s gold rush history at the Central Deborah Gold Mine or visit the Golden Dragon Museum to learn about Bendigo’s Chinese heritage. 

Or just take a leisurely stroll through the heritage streets, stop for a play at Rosalind Park and soak up the charm that this regional gem has to offer.

Read more tips on things to do in Bendigo with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Bendigo? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

6. Frankston

Arrive in Frankston and you’ll be greeted by stunning beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the Frankston Waterfront and enjoy picturesque views, relax on the beach with a picnic overlooking Port Phillip Bay and the nearby Frankston Foreshore Playground is sure to delight children. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try watersports such as kayaking or paddleboarding!

Frankston Arts Centre hosts a range of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year and Frankston City Centre is where you’ll find a diverse array of shops, cafes, and markets.

To visit the beautiful beachside town of Frankston just catch a train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station to Frankston. The train journey takes approximately 50 minutes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day out. 

Read more tips on things to do in Frankston with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Frankston ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

7. Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a former rail corridor that’s been transformed into a walking and cycling path. The full 38km (24 mile) route goes past farmland, native forests, the Yarra River and several small towns, with food options and old-fashioned pubs en route. 

Trains run to Lilydale from Melbourne’s Flinders Street station. Bus 683 from Lilydale to Warburton generally follows the trail, so you can walk some of the way, starting from Lilydale and then take the bus back to the start when needed. Read more tips on things to do in the Yarra Valley with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Melbourne? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Woodend is a gorgeous town in the Macedon Ranges and is easily accessed from Southern Cross Station. The train ride takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. 

Upon arrival in Woodend, you’ll be greeted by a charming town surrounded by natural beauty. Start your adventure by visiting the Woodend Children’s Park , a delightful playground where your little ones can climb, slide, and swing to their hearts’ content. The park also has picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family lunch, or head to the family-friendly Holgate Brewhouse .

To finish, make sure to stop by the Woodend Ice Cream Company , offering delectable artisanal ice cream flavours made with locally sourced ingredients.

About a 10-minute taxi ride from Woodend is Hanging Rock Reserve . Hanging Rock was made famous by Joan Lindsay’s novel Picnic at Hanging Rock which was later turned into a film and TV series. After browsing its displays the Discovery Centre, climb the path to the top of the rock for magnificent views. 

Read more tips on things to do in Woodend with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Woodend ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Another Macedon Ranges town worth visiting is Kyneton , the administrative and cultural heart of the shire region. It is also easily accessed from Southern Cross Station and the train ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

Start by exploring the picturesque Piper Street, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. Try some delicious treats or a leisurely lunch at one of the family-friendly eateries.

For a dose of nature and outdoor fun, head to Kyneton Botanic Gardens . Let the kids run free in the expansive parklands, have a picnic and enjoy the farm-themed playground where kids can swing, slide and climb.

Read more tips on things to do in Kyneton with kids .

Looking for where to stay in Kyneton ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

10. Castlemaine

Start your adventure by visiting the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens . Explore the lush greenery, enjoy a picnic by the lake, and let your kids run and play in the open spaces. The gardens also feature an award-winning playground with swings and slides, ensuring that your little ones have a fun-filled time.

To immerse yourselves in Castlemaine’s history, take a stroll through the town centre. Explore the historic streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and drop into Castlemaine Art Museum , which often hosts family-friendly exhibitions and interactive programs.

If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, head to Kalimna Park . This natural reserve offers walking trails, rock formations, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a perfect spot for a family hike or a picnic surrounded by nature.

To reach Castlemaine , catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Castlemaine Station. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Read more tips on things to do in Castlemaine with kids . 

Ready to explore Melbourne and Victoria? Book your stay at one of Melbourne’s best family hotels !

Looking for where to stay in Castlemaine ? Check out the accommodation options to suit your budget on Booking.com .

Melbourne’s best train experiences Visit the Melbourne Tram Museum

About Joyce Watts

Joyce Watts is a former intellectual property, IT and media lawyer turned serial entrepreneur.

As well as being the founder of TOT: HOT OR NOT she helps businesses with their SEO, email marketing & social media as BrightSmart.com.au; she owns an online bike store CycleStyle.com.au and develops and produces creative experiences for families via WheelieGoodFun.com. She used to publish another popular lifestyle and food blog called MEL: HOT OR NOT The decisive guide to Melbourne.

She lives in inner-city Melbourne with her husband, two children and seven bikes.

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The 6 best day trips from Melbourne without a car

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

A couple sit on the top of Hanging Rock in the Macedon ranges © FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock

Victoria may be perfectly suited to a good old-fashioned road trip , but visitors to Melbourne without their own set of wheels don't have to miss out on seeing the best of what this great Australian state has to offer.

Melbourne's excellent public transport connections mean travelers based in the city can hop on a train or bus to swap the buzz of busy streets for forest walking trails, spa towns and stream train rides – all without worrying about finding a parking space. Here's our guide to the best day trips from Melbourne.

1. Go for a picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

North of the city of Melbourne and a sacred site for the Wurundjeri people (the traditional custodians of the land here), enigmatic Hanging Rock  rises dramatically from the plains around it – the result of a volcanic eruption that created a multi-headed mound of lava.

Hanging Rock was made famous by Joan Lindsay’s novel describing the mysterious disappearances of Victorian-era schoolgirls on Valentine’s Day 1900. Picnic at Hanging Rock was later turned into the 1975 film by Australian director Peter Weir and the 2018 TV series starring Natalie Dormer and Yael Stone.

Hanging Rock also makes for an excellent day trip from Melbourne: it’s the perfect place for, well, a picnic. The Discovery Centre will fill you in on the area’s history and geology. After browsing its displays, climb the path to the top of the rock. For refreshments afterward, grab a snack or a beer at the popular Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend on the journey back.

How to get to Hanging Rock from Melbourne:  Hanging Rock is located to the northwest of Melbourne and trains run to Woodend from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne. From Woodend, it’s an 8km (5 mile) walk or cycle (BYO bike) or a 10-minute cab ride to Hanging Rock Reserve.

2. Cycle or walk the Warburton Rail Trail

At its height, Victoria ’s passenger train network stretched into every nook and cranny of the state. Sadly, that reach has long since gone, but over the last decade or so many of the former rail corridors have been transformed into "rail trails" – walking and cycling paths that cut through beautiful scenery and join up towns. The resulting trails are easy to walk or cycle making them an accessible, family-friendly day out.

The easiest rail trail to access from Melbourne is the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail . Stretching from Melbourne’s eastern edge into the Upper Yarra Valley, it’s a delightful 38km (24 mile) route that winds past farmland, native forests, the Yarra River and several small towns, with plenty of food options and charming old-fashioned pubs. Bring your own snacks and water for the main trail walk.

How to get to the Warburton Rail Trail from Melbourne: The trail starts in Lilydale on the eastern edge of Melbourne. Trains run to Lilydale from the center of the city. Bus 683 from Lilydale to Warburton mostly follows the trail, meaning you can hike a smaller section of the route and hop on the bus back to the start if you get tired.

3. Go off-roading on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

French Island lies just beyond Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, in the center of Western Port Bay. Named by a French exploring expedition in 1802, it has maintained an air of mystery to mainlanders.

The local population and farming activities have waxed and waned over the centuries, and nowadays the islanders live largely off the grid. Considering that 70% of the island is a national park, and there’s no bridge from the mainland and no local transport services, it’s been difficult for visitors to get to grips with its history and landscapes.

Today, however, Naturaliste Tours does a regular tour of the island, with members riding aboard a chunky ex-mining vehicle that can handle the rough tracks that drive into its interior. Highlights include a visit to the Pobblebonk Swamp with its resident frogs, a drive through an abandoned chicory farm with its eerie deserted buildings and koala-spotting among the trees on the island, with the tour culminating in a visit to the  French Island General Store , the island’s only shop. Lunches, bike hire and accommodation are also available here.

How to get to French Island from Melbourne:  French Island is located southeast of Melbourne. To reach it, catch a suburban train to Frankston, then change to a V/Line train to Stony Point. From here the French Island ferry  sails at approximately two-hour intervals.

4. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

The regional city of Ballarat was the epicenter of the Gold Rush of the 1850s – one of the greatest the world has ever seen. Over the following decades, the rough-and-tumble miners’ town grew into a graceful city, with plenty of frontier excitement along the way.

Those heady days are relived at Sovereign Hill , a historical village constructed around a former gold mine in the city’s suburbs. It’s an impressive place, with the streets lined by painstakingly researched replicas of buildings from the Gold Rush era, from pubs to Chinese temples. Many of these demonstrate crafts and trades of that period. There are several places to eat on-site, from the Hope Bakery to the dining room of the United States Hotel.

Family-friendly activities include gold panning, horse-and-carriage rides and a tour of an old mine shaft. To add to the fun, costumed actors regularly stage entertaining (and historically correct) performances throughout the site. If you have time, other local attractions worth a visit in the region are the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the acclaimed Art Gallery of Ballarat .

How to get to Ballarat from Melbourne:  Ballarat is situated to the west of Melbourne. Trains run direct from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Ballarat Station.

5. Soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Marketed as the "spa center of Victoria," these conjoined towns are hugely popular as a weekend getaway for Melburnians. Set among the scenic hills, lakes and forests of Central Highlands, it's a fabulous year-round destination where you can soak away your troubles in warm, mineral-rich waters and dine in some of regional Victoria's best eateries. The local population is an interesting blend of New Agers, urbanites and down-to-earth farmers and it's incredibly LGBTIQ+ friendly.

The health-giving properties of the area’s mineral springs were first claimed in the 1870s, attracting droves of fashionable Melburnians. The well-preserved and restored buildings show the prosperity of these towns, as well as the lasting influence of the many Swiss-Italian miners who came to work the tunnel mines in the surrounding hills. Aside from the various springs and bathhouses, there are also picnic spots, BBQ areas, children's playgrounds and walking trails to enjoy.

How to get to Daylesford from Melbourne:  The quickest way to get to Daylesford is to catch a train from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Woodend, then hop on a bus to Daylesford.

6. Tour the Dandenongs on the historic Puffing Billy steam train

Taking a train to take a train ride sounds like a strange way to spend a day, but then Puffing Billy is no ordinary train. Holding fond memories for many Melburnians, the Puffing Billy is an iconic restored steam train that toots its way through the Dandenong mountain range from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park and Gembrook on a five-hour return trip.

It's possible to hop on and hop off en route to enjoy a picnic or walk and it's a great day out for younger travelers and train enthusiasts especially. A diesel locomotive replaces the steam engine on total fire ban days (these are days in Victoria when the heat is extreme and fires are not allowed to be lit anywhere).

How to get to Puffing Billy Railway from Melbourne:  The Puffing Billy Railway is located to the east of the city. The easiest way to reach it is by train from Parliament Station in central Melbourne to Belgrave Station.

This article was first published Jan 9, 2019 and updated Oct 28, 2023.

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The 3 Best Day Trips From Melbourne by Train and Bus

Posted on Last updated: January 5, 2024

If you are visiting Melbourne or living there and looking for Melbourne day trips to do outside of the city you are in the right place. There are tons of great day trips from Melbourne you can take. But if you don’t have a car and need to get there by public transport it takes a little extra research. In this post, I have outlined my top 3 day trips from Melbourn that you can access by public transport.

So whether you are in the mood for snorkeling or being one with nature, exploring Melbourne’s beautiful backyard is perfect for you. To be sure that you are getting the best possible information about busses and other forms of public transportation then my go-to site is always Rome2Rio as you can also often book your bus tickets directly on their site saving time on the day.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Day Trip From Melbourne 1: Visit Phillip Island

How to get philip island from melbourne.

Philip island is one of the best day trips from Melbourne. And lucky for you public buses regularly depart central Melbourne going there. It’s best to check the timetable a day or so before as timetables can often change, especially during public holidays. To avoid missing a connection or waiting too long, be sure to get your times right!

It takes around two hours for V/Line buss from Melbourne to reach the bridge at San Remo. From there it is going to take you another 20 to 25 minutes to reach the popular suburb of Cowes.

The buses stop at various points around the island after departing Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. These points include Newhaven, Cowes, Cape Woolamai, Surf Beach, and Sunderland Bay.

For those who prefer to travel by train, Dandenong is the closest train station to the island. It takes around 40 to 50 minutes to reach the said station from Melbourne, depending on the station you departed from.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Melbourne Tours :  Click here to check out the top Melbourne tours Best Melbourne Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Melbourne Best Melbourne Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Melbourne

Things to Do On Philip Island

Though always busy, nothing beats the Penguin Parade . Hundreds of little penguins waddle in from Summerland Beach every day at sunset, yes please!

You can also visit the Koala Conservation Reserve to get a good look at one of the emblematic animals of Australia . The reserve features six hectares of native bushland that can be explored via accessible walking tracks. 

If you love the water, you can try snorkeling and scuba diving around the island. Phillip Island offers almost everything the Golden Coast offers, without the hassle of traveling too far. Dozens of fish species get attracted to the underwater kelp forests around Phillip Island. Thus, scuba diving and snorkeling are fantastic ways to explore the beauty of the underwater world.

Where To Eat and Drink On Philip Island

There are a lot of amazing food options are available on the island. 

For one, consider stopping in at and Café in Rhyll for breakfast or lunch. Native bush tuckers like wattleseed and lemon myrtle are grown on the farm. These tuckers are either used in the café or packaged and sold online. 

Fresh, local ingredients make their food delectable. Moreover, you can enjoy wandering through hectares of native bushland and carefully cultivated bush tucker plants to walk off your meal. 

You can also grab a locally brewed drink at Furphy, located at the . Enjoy your drink while catching views across the island.

Day Trip From Melbourne 2: Visit Yarra Valley

How to get to yarra valley from melbourne.

The best way to get to Yarra Valley is by train. The nearest train station in Yarra Valley can be found in Lilydale. From there, you can catch buses to either Yarra Glen or Healesville. To find route times, you can use the Metlink Melbourne website . In particular, you’ll need a Zone 1+2 ticket to make the trip. 

Another popular way to go to Yarra Valley is through a bus tour. Through this, you can enjoy wine tours in Australia without worrying about drunk driving. A few companies offer bus tours in the area.

Things to Do In Yarra Valley

From the ground, the Yarra Valley resembles a pastoral wonderland. So you can only imagine how it looks from a hot air balloon. 

For those looking to see the rustic landscape from a bird’s eye view, take a sunrise hot air balloon tour over the Yarra Valley. Finish it off with a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery . There, you can enjoy chocolate balls, blocks, and a lot of delicious ice cream scoops.

If that’s not enough excitement for you, then you can enjoy shopping and wonderful cafés as you enjoy all the best things to do in Healesville . You can also take home some local delights from Kitchen & Butcher.

Just make sure to bring them in a cooler bag!

Where to Eat and Drink in Yarrow Vally

features excellent charcuterie and cheese platters. These can be matched with fresh drops from the vineyard. For delicious wood-fired pizzas and moderately priced Moscato, you can hop across the street to Innocent Bystander.

If you’re in the mood for wine, you can sample wines with winemaker Clare Halloran at TarraWarra Estate’s cellar door. You can also try the best chardonnay and pinot noir produced on the estate― the Single Block and Reserve ranges. 

On top of that, you can visit one of Yarra Valley’s oldest wineries, the Yering Station.

Melbourne Day Trips 3: Check Out The Great Ocean Road

How to get to the great ocean road from melbourne.

You can get to the Great Ocean Road pretty easily by train and bus.

From Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Geelong , you can catch a V/Line train. The travel time will take about one hour.

You can also catch buses from Geelong Station. However, travel time will depend on where exactly on the Great Ocean Road you want to go. It takes about 40 minutes from Geelong to Torquay.

Things to Do On The Great Ocean Road

The road in the Great Ocean runs right past the cool, temperate rainforest of the Great Otway National Par k. This brings you closer to some of the best native flora and fauna of the country. 

The Koalas in the Wild Tour would be great for spotting your eucalyptus-loving friends. Watching the sunrise at the Twelve Apostles is also totally worth the effort.

If you want to surf, Torquay Surfing Academy offers surfing lessons with professionals. Even if you’re new to the sport, experts will get you on that board in no time. 

Where to Eat and Drink on The Great Ocean Road

A lot of locals eat and shop at Surf Coast Wholefoods daily. However, you can also pretend like a local for a drop-in visit. The Buddha Bowl is fantastic. If you need to fuel up for a full day of surfing, walking, and discovering in Torquay, I’d recommend avocado, brown rice, kale, and tofu bowl.

offers delicious meals and drinks. It’s also an all-day destination for meals and craft beers. You can enjoy your meals while looking out over the front beach of Torquay and relishing its serenity.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out these options! Atlantis Hotel Melbourne Great Southern Hotel Melbourne Hotel Grand Chancellor Melbourne

Melbourne Travel Guide Planning

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m traveling?

I strongly recommend using  Bookaway . You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours?

I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Final Thoughts on Melbourne day trips

Although Melbourne is amazing, you sometimes need to escape the big city. Hence, it’s great to know that it’s perfectly positioned for weekend breaks and unforgettable day trips from Melbourne. Happy traveling! 

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Melbourne

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Beautiful beaches, quirky wildlife, spa towns, and spectacular wilderness areas — you'll find all this and more within a few hours' drive of Melbourne . One of the country's most dazzling scenic drives, the Great Ocean Road, lies less than 200 kilometers from the city, as well as gorgeous Grampian National Park, the gleaming white-sand shores of Wilsons Promontory, and the rugged Dandenong Ranges.

Wildlife is a highlight at many of these city escapes. You can watch penguins parading up a pristine beach at Phillip Island, and see colorful parrots, wild kangaroos, and wombats in the national parks.

In addition to the rich natural beauty just a short drive from the CBD, Victoria's elegant seaside resorts charm visitors with their quaint shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants. History buffs can explore an old gold rush town. And if you're looking for Melbourne day trips in winter, skiers and snowboarders can carve up the slopes of Mount Buller less than a three-hour drive from the city.

Step outside the city limits and explore the surroundings with our list of the best day trips from Melbourne .

1. Great Ocean Road

2. phillip island's penguin parade, 3. the mornington peninsula, 4. the dandenong ranges and the yarra valley, 5. peninsula hot springs, 6. grampians national park, 7. wilsons promontory national park, 8. daylesford: day spas and mineral springs, 10. sovereign hill at ballarat, 11. mount buller skiing, 12. hanging rock reserve, the macedon ranges, map of day trips from melbourne.

About 200 kilometers from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most spectacular stretches of coastline and a top place to visit on a road trip. The drive from the city carves along steep sea cliffs, as well as the surf-thrashed beaches of Port Campbell National Park, where the distinctive rock pinnacles, the Twelve Apostles , tower above a swirling sea.

Other Great Ocean Road highlights include the wind- and sea-sculpted rock formations of Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch.

Mother Nature's power is on dazzling display here. To fully appreciate it, hop aboard a helicopter for a bird's-eye view of this dramatic coast, also called the Shipwreck Coast . While in the area, you can take a walk near koala-rich Kennett River ; look for kangaroos and wallabies in Great Otway National Park; or enjoy a different perspective of the forest at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures , including a treetop walk and zipline tour.

Are you a surfing fan? Stop in Torquay along the way to visit the Surf World Museum , and look for huge waves at legendary Bells Beach . This is also one of the best day trips from Melbourne with dogs — many of the beaches around Torquay allow pooches, and a couple allow leash-free romps.

When it comes to Melbourne road trips by car, it's hard to beat the Great Ocean Road. But if you're wondering how to get there without a car, you're in luck. You can enjoy many of these adventures on the Great Ocean Road Small-Group Eco-Tour from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes plenty of time to soak up the beautiful coastal scenery, including a hike in Great Otway National Park, Kennett River koala spotting, and a stop at Apollo Bay. A 15-minute helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles is an optional extra.

Phillip Island, about 140 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, is a top pick for wildlife lovers. Each night at sunset, visitors gather along the shore to watch adorable penguins waddle up the beach at the Phillip Island Nature Park .

Before the "Penguin Parade," you can visit some of the nearby wildlife parks. See koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre . Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies at Phillip Island Wildlife Park , or visit the Nobbies , a boardwalk that skirts the headland's seabird gardens with breathtaking views of the coast. Little penguins often rest along here, and in the spring, keep an eye out for silver gull chicks.

For more information on the ecology of the area, stop by the free Nobbies Centre and browse the educational displays.

Across Bass Strait from here is Seal Rocks , Australia's largest fur seal colony . Bring binoculars to see the seals, or board a wildlife cruise for close-up views. Thanks to all these educational experiences and wildlife sightings, this is one of the best Melbourne day trips for families.

An easy way to visit this top tourist attraction is on the Phillip Island Penguin Highlights Day Trip from Melbourne . This full-day excursion covers all the highlights, including wildlife viewing at Maru Koala and Animal Park, the Nobbies, and the famous Penguin Parade.

Official site: http://www.penguins.org.au/

A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the picturesque Mornington Peninsula is a favorite seaside escape from the city. Flanked by the ocean on one side and Port Phillip Bay on the other, this prime sliver of real estate hosts tranquil coves, cute villages, and rocky shores.

One of the Mornington Peninsula's top places to visit is stylish Sorrento , site of the state's first mainland European settlement. Heritage buildings, high-end shops, boutiques, and cafés are waiting for you to explore. Soak up the seaside scenery, and see the vacation homes of Australia's posh set along " Millionaire's Walk ," a five-kilometer clifftop trail above Port Phillip Bay, between Sorrento and Portsea.

Hiking is popular on back beach trails and in the rugged bushland on the end of the peninsula at Point Nepean National Park. Other highlights of the area include a ride on the scenic Sorrento-Queenscliff ferry, dolphin cruises, Peninsula Hot Springs, and the chance to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins and seals.

The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley have been a favorite weekend getaway for well-to-do Melburnians for more than a century. This day trip has a little something for everyone — from nature and wildlife to cute villages, fantastic food, and a fun ride on a historic train.

Start the day with a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges, about 40 kilometers east of Melbourne. Here, you can hike through rainforests of mountain ash trees to soothing cascades in the beautiful fern-filled Sherwood Forest. You can also hand-feed native birds, such as crimson rosellas, cockatoos, and galahs at Grants Picnic Ground . Nearby, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and William Ricketts Sanctuary are also worth a visit.

At Belgrave , board the 100-year-old Puffing Billy steam train and stroll around the artisan shops. You can also relax with a Devonshire tea in storybook-cute villages such as Olinda, a green thumb's delight with the excellent Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens and Cloudehill Nursery and Gardens .

Not far from here, the Yarra Valley is a haven for foodies, with fresh produce, first-class restaurants, and the chance to sample handmade farmyard cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy . Are you an animal lover? One of the top things to do in this region is visit the popular Healesville Sanctuary to see native Australian animals and birds.

Note that in June, 2021, severe storms struck the Dandenong Ranges, impacting many local businesses. Check for any closures before you visit.

Feel like being pampered? How about a soak in steamy mineral spring pools followed by a customized massage and a nourishing organic meal? You can do this and more at Peninsula Hot Springs, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne in the Mornington Peninsula.

Turkish steam bath, anyone? Reflexology walk? You can choose from 50 bathing experiences from around the world at the Bath House here. Or you might prefer a dip in a cave pool or a soak on a hilltop with breathtaking views. Steamy mineral water seeps from underground springs into the many pools set within a forest of tea trees, creating a relaxing setting to soak your cares away, no matter where you choose to take your dip.

Peninsula Hot Springs is one of the most popular short day trips from Melbourne by car. And don't think this is just for singles and couples. Families are also welcome here.

To make your visit even easier, book the Peninsula Hot Springs Day Trip with Thermal Bathing Entry from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes transport to and from the hot springs, bath house admission, and a local expert driver so you can sit back and relax on the journey. Luxury spa treatments are an optional extra.

After your pampering visit, save time to complement your therapeutic soak with a healthy meal at the café.

Address: Springs Lane, Fingal, Victoria

Official site: http://www.peninsulahotsprings.com/

Grampians National Park (often called "The Grampians") offers beautiful vistas of waterfalls, colorful spring wildflowers, rock formations, and rugged crags. It lies about 260 kilometers from Melbourne.

Avid hikers in particular will enjoy this park, and anyone can admire the breathtaking scenery from its many panoramic lookouts. Called "Gariwerd" by the Aboriginal people, the park also shelters traditional rock art. You can learn more about this rich history and the park's ecology at Brambuk the National Park & Cultural Centre .

Other top attractions in the Grampians include the beautiful MacKenzie Falls , Victoria's tallest waterfall; Beehive Falls, with its fern-fringed rock pools; Fish Falls ; and the panoramic lookouts at the Pinnacle and the Balconies. You can also drive to Reeds and Boroka lookouts.

Wildlife is abundant. Kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and echidnas, make their home here, and sightings of friendly marsupials are common.

Besides hiking, other popular outdoor activities include abseiling and rock climbing on the faces of Mt. Arapiles, fishing and canoeing at the park's lakes and rivers, quad biking, and horseback riding. If you're considering staying overnight, Halls Gap is the gateway to the park and makes a great base. Bring a camera, and be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.

The Grampians is also a popular destination for foodies. Enjoy the excellent restaurants and fresh local produce, including olives, cheeses, and meats.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/grampians-national-park

Affectionately called "The Prom" by locals, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the state's largest coastal wilderness area and a nirvana for nature lovers and photographers. It lies on the southernmost point of the Australian mainland, about a three-hour drive from Melbourne's city center. It's a long drive for a day trip, but the spectacular scenery of squeaky-clean beaches, cool-climate rainforests, and rugged granite peaks is worth the trip.

Highlights include guided walks through the bushland, the granite rock formations of Giant Rock , the white quartz sands of Squeaky Beach , Lilly Pilly Gully , and the sea-sculpted boulders of Whisky Bay . The park is also known for its rich native wildlife, such as wombats, emus, kangaroos, and many birds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do. Scenic hikes lace the bushland, from short one-hour walks to multi-day treks. The one-hour hike up Mt. Oberon summit has one of the park's best viewpoints, overlooking the Tidal River and the coast. Divers can explore the underwater world in the marine national park. Other activities include swimming, fishing, canoeing, camping, and bird-watching. Strong hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

Skirting the Wombat State Forest, about 115 kilometers from Melbourne, a Daylesford day trip is perfect for a pampering city escape. Soothing mineral springs, wellness centers, and day spas are the prime draws in this quaint country town, earning it a reputation as the spa capital of Australia .

Drawn by these healing mineral springs and the gold rush, many Swiss and Italian immigrants settled here, imbuing the town with an old-world feel. A popular destination in the region is the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, in neighboring Hepburn Springs, which has been lavishing guests since 1895. Another must-see is The Convent , an enchanting 19th-century estate on six acres atop Wombat Hill, with beautiful views over town, impressive art galleries, a chapel, and museum.

Daylesford is also known for its many award-winning restaurants serving seasonal local produce. To dine at one of the town's top eateries, stroll around beautiful Lake Daylesford and enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Lake House , which is also a small luxury hotel. You can also browse the town's quaint shops, antique markets, and historic buildings.

About 138 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, Lorne, on beautiful Loutit Bay, has long been one of the country's favorite seaside resorts. Snuggled between Otway National Park and the Great Ocean Road , this pretty little town offers an intoxicating mix of Mediterranean ambience, seaside elegance, and natural beauty.

You'll never be bored here. Popular things to do include swimming and surfing at the long, golden beach, with its nearby cafés and skatepark, and casting a line off the local pier for fish like trevally and whiting. The pier also plays host to the fish co-op, where you can buy the fresh catch of the day. Tourists also love browsing the boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, and galleries.

Teddy's Lookout , a five-minute drive from town, offers beautiful views over the coast and Great Ocean Road. Another popular attraction in the area is Erskine Falls , rimmed by lush ferns and eucalyptus forest.

Insider's tip: During peak vacation times around Christmas, a torrent of tourists fills this tiny town, so you should book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

At Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, you can experience the exciting 1850s gold rush days in a living museum. About 110 kilometers from Melbourne, this recreated gold-mining town is one of the top attractions in Ballarat . Here, you can watch goldsmiths and artisans at work in Victorian-era houses and shops, tour an underground gold mine, and even pan for the precious metal. Costumed staff, stagecoach rides, and a dazzling sound and lights show round out all the historical fun.

The town of Ballarat was the epicenter of the Australian Gold Rush. Learn all about this important chapter of Australian history by touring the historic sites, heritage buildings, and old churches around town.

Other highlights include Art Gallery Ballarat , with works from Gold Rush artists; the beautiful 40-acre Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the banks of Lake Wendouree; and Ballarat Wildlife Park . Ballarat is also home to award-winning restaurants, so don't forget to top off your tour with a memorable meal.

Don't have a car? This is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne by train.

Official site: http://www.sovereignhill.com.au/

In winter, rain often means snow in the mountains, so if the weather is not cooperating with your outdoor activities in the city, you can play at the snowy peaks nearby. From early June through late September (depending on snowfall), avid skiers and boarders can hit the slopes of Mount Buller, one of Australia's best ski resorts , about a three-hour drive from Melbourne.

Mount Buller has the most extensive lift system of all the Victorian resorts, with 22 lifts transporting guests to 300 hectares of skiable terrain and three terrain parks. About 35 percent caters to advanced skiers, and the resort also offers plenty of runs for beginners and intermediates. Cross country skiers can explore nine kilometers of trails.

For non-skiers, the village is a fun place to hang out. Relax at the spas, browse the shops, or take the kids to the resort's toboggan parks. This is a great trip for families seeking a first-time snow experience, as well as enthusiastic skiers and boarders looking for a wintertime city escape.

Official site: http://www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/

Rich in mystique, Hanging Rock Reserve is a wonderful wilderness escape in the Macedon Ranges. Less than an hour northwest of Melbourne, the massive 105-meter-high extinct volcano, now eroded into columns, was the location for Peter Weir's iconic film, Picnic at Hanging Rock , based on the book by Joan Lindsay.

The rock is also an important Aboriginal landmark and was reputedly a refuge for bushrangers during the Gold Rush. Even if you're not familiar with the legend that captured the imagination of many Australians, Hanging Rock Reserve is truly a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic or a hike in the fresh eucalyptus-tinged air.

The round-trip climb to the top takes about 50 minutes, with plenty of secret nooks to slither in along the way, and beautiful views over the countryside. You can also explore the other hiking trails that weave through the reserve. Keep an eye out for wildlife like wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and wombats.

More on Australia

The 8 BEST Day Trips from Melbourne (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 3, 2024

Planning to visit Victoria’s capital? Make sure to check out these 8 day trips from Melbourne during your stay!

From the incredible culinary delights of the Yarra Valley to the adorable penguins of Phillip Island and iconic sights like Loch Ard Gorge on the Great Ocean Road, there are some seriously awesome day trips to be done from Melbourne.

Yes, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Melbourne when it comes to culture, food, arts & so much more.

But don’t let that stop you from checking out some of the best day trips from Melbourne.

Table of Contents

What to do on the Great Ocean Road

Best places to stay on the great ocean road, what to do in the yarra valley, best places to stay in the yarra valley, what to do in ballarat, best places to stay in ballarat, what to do in grampians national park, best places to stay in the grampians national park, what to do in wilsons promontory national park, best places to stay in wilsons promontory national park, what to do on the mornington peninsula, best places to stay on the mornington peninsula, what to do in mount buller, best places to stay in mount bueller, what to do on phillip island, best places to stay on phillip island, the best day trips from melbourne.

Having spent a bunch of time in Melbourne, and explored a lot of the state of Victoria, it’s my pleasure to bring you this list of the best day trips from Melbourne based on my personal experience.

1. The Great Ocean Road

This is perhaps one of the most iconic stretches of road in Australia and maybe even the southern hemisphere.

The Great Ocean Road is a national heritage-listed length of road that runs along the southeastern coast of Australia.

Only 2.5 hours from downtown Melbourne and stretching nearly 250km, the Great Ocean Road is a top day trip and road trip in Australia.

No matter if you opt for a tour or self-drive road trip, you’ll be seeing one of the most amazing places in all of Australia.

Want more information? Here’s our detailed Great Ocean Road drive itinerary .

What makes this such a great day trip from Melbourne is the variety of different activities along the way.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, there’s nothing to worry about.

With dozens of tour operators offering Melbourne day tours to the Great Ocean Road, you won’t miss out.

These guys are the best in my opinion , and you’ll get to experience everything there is to see (and more)!

The landscapes along the Great Ocean Road vary from one winding road to the next.

You’ll road trip along the coast, through beautiful forests and through charming seaside towns during this day trip.

If you head out on an organized tour the stops will be chosen for you, but will likely include all the must-see locations.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Bell’s Beach is a must for any surfer in the group. Made famous for its incredible swells, Bells Beach is located near the town of Torquay and makes for a great stop for an avid surfer, or those wanting to learn.

Apollo Bay is another brilliant spot for a beach walk or catch a few waves.

When it comes to spectacular landscapes, the Great Ocean Road has a few from which to choose.

Lord Arch Gorge is part of the Port Campbell National Park and is a breathtaking sight. Loch Ard Gorge and named after a ship that ran aground here in 1878.

While the arch has since collapsed leaving 2 stone pillars inside Loch Ard Gorge, the views from the lookout and within the national park are still spectacular.

This is one of the most gorgeous spots on a day trip from Melbourne!

The Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks within the same park as Lord Arch Gorge and one of the most impressive locations in Australia.

For a more unique view, there are helicopter flights that take off from here and bring people over the apostles for one of the best views possible.

Great Otway National Park is massive and covers a huge portion of the Great Ocean Road.

You’ll find beautiful waterfalls, ancient and lush rainforests, gorgeous beaches and if you’re lucky, some native Australian animals like koalas up in the trees. 

Driving the Great Ocean Road can definitely be done in a day, but if you have two days, even better!

Why not consider staying the night along the way, so you can take your time and check out all the best spots on this day trip?

The Apollo Bay Eco has a fantastic outdoor area with a bbq and has a gorgeous common area with a fireplace to relax after a day out exploring the beaches and National Parks nearby.

Right across the street from Fisherman’s beach in Torquay is the beautiful Beachfront Resort Torquay with a central location and fantastic amenities. This place is perfect for day trips from Melbourne.

2. Yarra Valley

Only 25km from central Melbourne and you’ll be immersed in some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and top-rated wine tasting.

Accessible by car, train and public bus (the number 364) this is the perfect Melbourne day trip if you’re short on time.

Home to some of the country’s best wineries, world-class restaurants, spectacular views and some fantastic activities.

Whether you’re looking for a perfect spa day getaway from the city, to get out into nature or even take up to the skies in a hot air balloon, this day trip from Melbourne has a multitude of activities for everyone.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on this guide to spending the perfect 3 days in Melbourne !

A perfect Melbourne day tour worth taking advantage of is the Yarra Valley Wine, Cider and Chocolate day tour . Get picked up at your hotel in Melbourne and be whisked away for a day of decadence.

Visit multiple wineries for wine tasting and visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie all from the comfort of a vehicle you don’t have to drive.

If you’re travelling with your own vehicle you can still do a tour of the wineries. But you’ll need a designated driver if you’re wine tasting of course.

You can get a reliable, cheap rental car here .

With over 80 wineries in the region to choose from, here are a few must-visit stops that are worth checking out.

Zonzo Estate is a fine dining estate with spectacular views and a focus on Italian dining.

The Stables at Stones is a charming and rustic looking red brick building with a seasonal menu and fantastic wine pairings.

TarraWarra Estate boasts the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the region and also the best views from atop a lush green hill.

On top of the wine tastings, there are also several distilleries in the Yarra Valley including Four Pillars, Levantine Hill, and Domaine Chandon for all those champagne lovers. 

For an exceptionally unique experience in the area and one of the best things to do in Melbourne, take a hot air balloon flight.

Visiting Melbourne in the winter? Never fear, one of the best Melbourne day trips includes a visit to Lake Mountain .

This is the most affordable alpine ski location close to Melbourne and offers something for everyone visiting.

If skiing/snowboarding aren’t for you there are several beautiful winter walking trails at Lake Mountain to get you out into the great outdoors.

If you’re looking for a place for a little rest and relaxation Natskin Day Spa is where it’s at.

Indulge in massages, facials and even hydrotherapy treatments all in a rustic and gorgeous setting in the Yarra Valley.

Make the most of the delicious wine and food, and don’t worry about heading back to the city by staying the night amongst the natural beauty of the area!

Deville At Healesville offers lovely rooms, with views of the lush wine region with the added bonus of add on packages including incredible massages at the spa.

3. Ballarat

Ballarat is one of the biggest cities outside of Melbourne, and also a city overflowing with history.

If you love history, then you’ll absolutely love what is arguably one of the top day trips from Melbourne!

It was made famous in the 1850s for its historic gold rush, and the news spread quickly around the country of the findings.

Immerse yourself in medieval history, learn more about Australia’s history, or take a trip back into history if you fancy.

While this day trip from Melbourne is one of the most historical, there is no shortage of outdoor activities either.

Visit Lake Wendouree , stroll through the botanical gardens or maybe stop in at Black Hill Reserve .

No matter what your reason for coming to this part of Australia you’ll leave having done some of the best Melbourne sightseeing without having gone too far from the city.

One of the most popular sites in terms of Ballarat sightseeing is definitely Sovereign Hill .

Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum which depicts the gold rush of the 1850s and costumed staff in character and 60 historically modelled buildings.

You can try your hand at panning for gold, go on an underground tour of Red Hill Mine, or take in the incredible light show recounting the Eureka Uprising of 1854.

You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time in Sovereign Hill with the old trams, horse-drawn carriages and wild west vibe.

For those seeking a trip a little further back in history, Kyral Castle should be on your list in addition to Sovereign Hill.

This replica of a medieval castle is actually an adventure park with incredible exhibits, carnival games and even a jousting arena.

Test your strength as you try to remove the sword in the stone, cross the drawbridge over the moat and into a land full of dragons, princesses and knights, or check out the torture dungeon if you dare.

For nature lovers looking for something a bit more outdoorsy, make your way to Lake Wendouree , a popular spot on day trips from Melbourne.

What was once only a stream, turned swamp and now a recreational lake in Ballarat is home to multiple boating activities and walking trails.

This is also where the Ballarat Botanical Gardens are found which are beautiful for a stroll.

If you’re searching for something a little more challenging with the best reward, head out to Black Hill Reserve. This urban park has a 500-meter hill to climb with panoramic views at the top well worth the climb.

A perfect mix of history and new age, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E) is a great way to learn more about this part of Ballarat history.

Through a mix of digital technologies, historic artifacts and various art installations visitors will be able to learn more about the Eureka Rebellion of 1854.

Situated opposite to the iconic and historic Sovereign Hill, the Mercure Ballarat Hotel is equal parts iconic and charm itself.

With a lake right behind the hotel and a beautiful array of guest rooms, this is the perfect place to stop in and relax on day trips from Melbourne Day.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Australia with our comprehensive Australia Travel Guide .

4. The Grampians National Park

This is the perfect Melbourne day trip for nature lovers looking to escape the city and head into the great outdoors.

The Grampians National Park is about 260 km west of Melbourne and can be done with your own vehicle or as part of a tour.

Proclaimed as a National Park in 1984 and listed as an Australian Heritage site in 2006 this National Park features a series of incredible sandstone mountains.

One of the richest indigenous rock art sites in South Eastern Australia, The Grampians are full of incredible natural beauty and historic Aboriginal cultural associations.

There’s more to do here than just hiking too. Take in the lookout points, visit the Cultural Center, take in the Hamilton Gallery and all its beautiful works of art, and check out the amazing waterfalls.

Check out our latest guide on the best Grampians walks !

First and foremost- hike! The Grampians offer tons of trails for every level of hiker looking to explore.

There’s the Venus Baths Loop and The Balconies walk which are both relatively flat and under 2km.

If you’re up to it, the more challenging half-day Wonderland Loop Hike takes you through Venus Baths, Silent Street, The Pinnacle and The Grand Canyon.

No matter how much time you have or what your level of fitness is there really is a trail for everyone to enjoy the park and the views.

No wonder it is known to be one of the best day trips from Melbourne!

If you want to learn a little bit more about the history of the Grampians or find out more about the Aboriginal artwork here then headfirst for The Ngamadjidj Aboriginal Art Shelter .

Here you’ll find preserved works of art stretching the decades and get a real sense for the people who once inhabited this part of the country.

The J Ward Museum was once a prison transformed into a maximum-security psychiatric facility for the criminally insane.  

Take a ghost tour and dive deep into the ever so dark history of this place.

If you’re into art then check out the Hamilton Gallery which showcases over 8000 pieces of art from Europe, Australia and Asia.

While the Grampians are made of sandstone, quite dry and golden in colour that doesn’t mean there isn’t a waterfall to be found.

Sadly, swimming is no longer permitted here (for safety reasons) but the viewing platform is perfectly positioned for a great view of the falls.

The viewing platform is accessible from the car park making it perfect for even those with limited mobility.

But if you want an even better view there is a 2km return trail that will bring you to the base of the falls and give you an even better view.

A favourite hike for photographers at sunrise or sunset would be The Balconies , which take you through rocky outcroppings and forest until you reach the top to find views out over the Victoria Valley.

While exploring nature, you may even spot some native Australian animals like kangaroos, echidnas, or wombats.

Grampians Eco YHA is a hostel that makes the perfect base to explore the Grampians National Park during a day trip. An eco-friendly and sustainable design, free parking and a veg garden for cooking make it the best budget option.

The Gariwerd Motel is the perfect hotel in the most beautiful of locations just 700 meters from the centre of Halls Gap. Communal kitchen areas, free to use bbq’s for guests, a beautiful location and even fire pits to enjoy in the evening.

5. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Also known as Wilsons Prom, this marine national park is one of Australia’s most rugged and beautiful to visit. It’s also one of the best day trips from Melbourne!

Officially opened as a national park in 1898 and stretching over 50 000 hectares this is one of Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness areas to be explored.

The massive park appeals to everyone no matter what their taste might be. From glamping to camping, spectacular viewpoints, multi-day hiking trails or just a lazy day out on the beach.

Rainforest walks in Lilly Pilly Gully . Sand dune adventures at Big Drift . Beach hopping, wildlife spotting bushwalking, hiking and so so much more.

One of the highlights of things to do in Melbourne is getting out to Wilsons Promontory National Park because of the serious amount of awesome things to do here.

Everyone needs at least one beach day during a holiday. So why not make your day trip to Wilsons Prom a beach-hopping day trip from Melbourne?

If you want a beach with an epic view, of the impressive Mt Oberon, stop in at Norman Beach .

Follow a less than picturesque trail until you hit golden sand and you’ll be there. One of the largest beaches in the national park is perfect for anyone looking to have a beach (almost) all to themselves.

Whisky Bay & Picnic Bay are perfect for catching some views as well as some waves.

Be sure to listen carefully when you set foot on Squeaky Beach . The squishy sand here sounds a lot like rain boots in the mud as you make your way across the sand, and also has a slightly marbled effect too.

Squeaky Beach is a great place to set up camp during day trips. Catch a wave or climb atop some of the massive rocks here for a better view. 

Get stuck into the sand dunes at Big Drift, just a short walk from the Stockyard campsite this is a little bit of a hidden gem too.

Grab a boogie board and sandboard down or try your luck at running up, it’s harder than it looks. These beautiful golden sand dunes are something to be marvelled at.

For those looking for something straightforward and not too strenuous set foot onto the Darby Saddle to Sparkes Lookout. Offering both coastal views and stunning rainforest sections this a great trail with a beautiful view as a reward.

The Mt.Oberon summit walk is a leg burner but trust the pain because the panoramic views at the top are more than worth the ache.

If you have the time and the equipment The South Eastern Circuit can be done in 2 days and 1 night and is the most popular for longer hikes.

When it comes to opportunities to spot wildlife in Wilsons Promontory National Park there are quite a few places to choose from.

As the world’s southernmost mangroves, Millers Point is one of the lesser-visited spots in the park but one that is home to iconic and rare black swans.

At Refuge Cove you can grab a boat tour or watch from the shoreline for dolphins, sharks, whales and even little penguins and albatross.

A short and easy walk in the park is the Wilsons Prom Wildlife Walk , which is great for spotting kangaroos, wallabies, and even emus.

Looking to grab a photo or two of an adorable wombat? Head for the Loo-Errn near Tidal River for your best chance. 

For a chance to experience a real rainforest during your day trip, look to head to Lilly Pilly Gully.

This location is perfect if you arrive at Wilsons Promontory on a day when visibility is poor and viewpoints may not be worth the climbs.

In the town of Yanakie, you’ll find The Olivi Hotel the perfect rest spot after your Melbourne day trip to Wilsons Promontory National Park.

With free bike rentals, you’ll be able to explore the town, a terrace, an onsite lounge and a restaurant plus beautiful rooms.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

6. Melbourne Day Trips – Mornington Peninsula

Pack your bags, load up the car, or grab the train from Flinders Street to Frankton and hop on the 781 bus to head to the coast. This is one of the most accessible day trips from Melbourne.

The Mornington Peninsula can also be reached as part of a Melbourne day tour so there is no reason for you to miss out on the beautiful colours of the Australian seaside.

This spot is high on the list of locals and often residents of Melbourne have holiday homes here. It encircles the Port Phillip Bay, just east of the city.

From the incredible coastline of golden beaches against the turquoise sea, beautiful wineries, and the chance to experience fantastic watersports, Mornington is really a top choice for anyone in need of a break from city life.

Hop on the gondola for spectacular views, grab a wetsuit and some fins to explore below the surf, relax at the Peninsula Hot Springs or check out the beautiful beach boxes.

No matter your reason for visiting this is one of the top Melbourne attractions that should not be missed.

If you want to make the most of your day trip to the Mornington Peninsula, book yourself into a day tour from Melbourne .

One of the most visited spots along the Mornington Peninsula is definitely the charming town of Portsea on the tip of Port Phillip Bay.

While the town itself is quite small, it’s known for its beautiful bay and the vibrant coloured beach boxes that look out on the ocean.

Other seaside destinations on the Peninsula include Rosebud, Dromana, and Mount Eliza .

No visit to the seaside is complete without a day in or on the water right?

If you’re after a fun-filled adventure in a kayak or on a paddleboard check out any number of watersport outfitters in the area to rent a board or a boat and get a whole new view of the peninsula.

Or grab some fins and dive down to see what lies under the sea.

If you’re a little more partial to being on the water instead of in the water head to the town of Sorrento and grab yourself a ticket on any number of different boat trips offered.

The Peninsula Hot Springs are a top choice if you need a little relaxation during your day trip.

At Peninsula Hot Springs, natural thermal minerals run into the pools and private baths here in the most beautiful of locations.

Choose from one of the 50 different public baths or book a private pool in a group.

For photographers and those looking to stretch their legs, be sure to stop in at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse . Dating back to 1859 this beautiful white lighthouse that visitors can walk up to get incredible views over the Bass Strait.

There is a walking trail out to the lighthouse and towards the beach where you may even get the chance to see whales if you visit during the right time of year.

Then there is the Mornington Peninsula National Park to go off and explore.

For a bit of a challenge, take on the 2-day coast walk from Cape Schanck Lighthouse to London Bridge which will take you along the entire coastline.

Shorter tracks include The FranFarnsworth Track and The Coppins Track both with beautiful views of the coastline and trails near the surrounding bushland.

Ryeback Beach is perfect for a lazy day laying in the sand and surf enthusiasts should be sure not to miss out on the swells at Gunnamatta Beach .

Anyone in your group a keener for a good view? If the answer is yes, head up to Arthur’s Seat Eagle .

After a 15-minute gondola ride you’ll be up at the summit and looking down from over 300 meters above the National Park.

Located in the beautiful area of Mount Eliza, Norwood House is not only a fabulous accommodation choice for a day trip from Melbourne, but also one with a spectacular view.

While relatively small with 15 rooms, nothing has been spared to keep guests comfortable and relaxed after a day out exploring the Peninsula.

7. Mount Buller

Just because you’re visiting Australia doesn’t mean you have to throw your love of snow out the window.

Mount Buller is a resort village in Eastern Victoria just under 3 hour’s drive from Melbourne.

If you’re looking for winter road trips from Melbourne, this day trip up the mountain is perfect.

Never fear if you are skipping winter all together because there is still a ton to do here in summer as well.

Halfway between temperate and subarctic climates, this means the summers are mild and perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

While the mild but snowy winters make for great skiing/snowboarding adventures up on the slopes.

With your own vehicle, it’s a fairly straight forward drive from Melbourne up into the mountains and it’s one of the area’s most scenic road trips.

If you’re embarking on day trips without a car, there are a few transportation options to get you up to the slopes including V Line buses which leave from the city centre daily.

A day trip from Melbourne to Mount Bueller in the winter (June – August) would not be complete without some time on the slopes.

With runs on both the North and South sides of the mountain, there are tons to choose from for everyone.

For the experts check out Slalom Gully or The FastOne .

And for those just starting out the Baldy and Bourke Street runs are the perfect starters. 

If the downhill scene isn’t for you there are some great cross country trails to explore too.

With 4 different terrain parks, this is where all adrenaline junkies should stop off first at Mount Buller.

Summit Park boasts the biggest and highest jumps in the park.

Koflers Park is perfect for those testing things out and seeing what freestyle is all about.

Skyline Park is that happy medium between the two.

Summer is a whole different experience at Mount Buller.

One of the biggest events hosted up on the mountain when the snow starts to melt is the Bike Buller Festival .

Over a 3 day weekend in March hundreds of bikes take to the trails in some amazing courses.

Several other bike events and festivals take place here over the summer months and it’s worth checking out their site for more details .

The Summit Nature Walk is a 4 km return where you’ll be able to see so many beautiful plants and flowers, as well as a spectacular view from the top of the trail too.

Little Mt Buller track might be little in name but is big on views. At 16km return, you’ll go up and over some gorgeous ridges giving you glimpses of the view below and once you make it to the top the views are even better.

Stop in at the National Alpine Museum of Australia to learn more about Australia’s alpine regions. The museum boasts over 15000 artifacts depicting winter sports in Australia, the history of how they came to be in the country plus lots of cool stories of achievement in sport.

If the spa is more your speed then The Breathtaker on High spa is ideal for a day of relaxation. Indulge in a massage, facial, body scrub or various water therapy treatments at this eco-friendly spa.

And if you still want to catch the views with minimal effort why not grab a seat on the chairlift that continues to run in the Summer to take advantage of those beautiful blue sky views.

Not too far from Mount Buller village means everything is practically on your doorstep at The Alpine Retreat This cozy hotel has a highly-rated restaurant and a pool and hot tub so you can relax and refuel after a day on the slopes.

READ MORE: Plan a trip to Tasmania with this 2-week Tasmania itinerary !

8. Phillip Island

A popular Melbourne day trip option is Philip Island, with beautiful golden beaches and adorable little penguins to be seen.

The island was named after Governor Arthur Phillip who sailed on the first open whaleboat from Sydney in the 1700s.

Phillip Island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and a highlight for anyone looking to experience some incredible Australian wildlife, beautiful scenery and a stunning coastline.

Wicked good surf spots, the penguin parade and the Grand Prix circuit and so much more are all reasons to visit the island.

Something that has made the island famous, are adorable little penguins. Their actual name has everything to do with their size, and visitors can witness an amazing sight each night after sunset.

The Phillip Island Nature Park has an adorably named penguin parade each night where you can see these beautiful creatures return to land from a day in the water. The penguin parade itself is a highlight of day trips from Melbourne.

There are interactive and educational displays and talks at the nature park as well as VIP and guided tours to book in on if you want a more unique experience.

This conservation park prides itself on creating a safe and sustainable environment where people can come and learn about these local penguins, and the penguin parade truly is a magical sight to be seen.

If you’re a wildlife lover, also check out the Phillip Island Wildlife Park to learn more about conservation and animals.

If you opt to head out to Phillip Island on an organized day trip from Melbourne there is a good chance you’ll be taken to Nobbies Center .

At the tip of the Island, you’ll find Point Grant and Nobbies which is an eco-tourism location.

The centre is operated by the Phillip Island Nature Park and is home to some spectacular walking tracks along the coast.

Australia’s largest fur seal colony calls the rocks at Nobbies home, and during the Spring and Summer months, you can even see silver gull chicks and their nesting mothers.

Walk out to the edge of the coastline to see the impressive blowhole and just take in the sea air as you look out over the vast scene in front of you.

If you have the need for speed head over to the Phillip Island Circuit . Host to most major motorsport events including the World Superbike and Moto GP.

You can take go-karts out on the track or even go for a private race session with a driver or just tour the track. Phillip Island is one of the best, most adventurous day trips from Melbourne.

The Island Accommodation is a backpacker designed with an eco-friendly design to reduce energy and water consumption all while keeping guests happy and cozy.  Just a stone’s throw from the beaches and shops, plus the hostel has an awesome patio to soak in all the views of the island.

After finishing up an epic day trip from Melbourne, check into the Silverwater Resort .

With resort apartments with up to 3 bedrooms, multiple sports courts, a solar-heated outdoor pool and several restaurants it’s the perfect spot after a day of exploring.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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17 Great Day Trips from Melbourne in 2024: Beaches, Bushland and Small Towns

Looking for some great day trips from Melbourne? With so much to do in Australia’s Capital of Culture, you can easily spend 3 days in Melbourne , a week, or even longer – it’ll be hard to drag yourself away. But there are also so many gorgeous places outside the city to explore, and I highly encourage you to do just that.

Within an hour you can be in one of Australia’s premier wine regions, within two hours you can be by gorgeous beaches or spotting wildlife (penguins! koalas!), and within a few more hours you can be in a heritage-listed national park.

As a Melbourne local, I’ve explored all over Victoria, and these are my favourite places to visit near Melbourne.

So, if you want to explore some of these spots, here are the best Melbourne day trips. Make sure you add a few extra days to your Melbourne itinerary so that you can squeeze one or two of these day trips in!

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

How to do these Melbourne day trips

While Melbourne has an extensive public transport network , it’s going to be difficult to do most of these day trips without your own car. There may be buses or trains that can get you to the towns listed here, but once you’re there you’ll have to rely on local public transport (which may be limited) or taxis (Ubers don’t exist in most of the smaller towns).

Because of that, I highly recommend doing day trips from Melbourne by car. Most of the well-known car rental brands have branches in the Melbourne CBD (central business district); check out DiscoverCars for options and pricing. You can rent automatic and manual cars.

Remember, if you’re visiting Melbourne from overseas, we drive on the left-hand side here in Australia!

An alternative is to rent a car for the day through Popcar . Popcar is a local car-sharing company that allows members to access cars on an hourly or daily basis.

It’s a great option for locals who want to take day trips from Melbourne but don’t have a car (and don’t want to deal with hassles like insurance, car payments and petrol). And it’s also great for people visiting Melbourne who want access to a car for just a day or two. There’s a fuel card in each car so you don’t even need to pay for petrol, and there are plenty of convenient Popcar locations around Melbourne.

Some roads to these day trip destinations will have tolls – if you’re renting a car or hiring a car through Popcar, you’ll be billed separately for these tolls (which can cost between $2 and $10 each). Alternatively, go into your Google maps settings to switch the route to avoid tolls.

However, if you’d prefer to relax and let someone else do the driving for you, I’ve also suggested some Melbourne day tours for these awesome day trip destinations (where available).

Melbourne day trips map

If you’re not familiar with Victoria, here’s a map that shows the location of each of these day trips around Melbourne.

Day trips under 1 hour from Melbourne

1. yarra valley.

Distance from CBD: 58km / 1 hour

There aren’t many cities that can boast a world-renowned wine region just under an hour from its doorstep. Well, Melbourne can. One of Australia’s best wine regions, the Yarra Valley, is just a short drive from the CBD, making it an easy day trip from Melbourne.

The Yarra Valley is known for its Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc varietals. The fertile soils here have been producing award-winning wines since the first grapes were planted back in the 1830s.

But it’s not just wines that the area is famous for – the rolling hills are also home to fruit and vegetable production and cheese and dairy products.

Don’t miss:

• The wineries of course! With more than 300 wineries, you’ll have to make some difficult decisions to whittle down to a list of places to visit in one day. A few popular ones are Yering Station , Oakridge , Giant Steps and TarraWarra
• Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley at sunrise (book online here )
• Tasting cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy, and ice cream and chocolates at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
• Dining in style at a winery like TarraWarra, Ezard at Levantine Hill or Yering Station, or something more casual at Innocent Bystander

Best time to visit the Yarra Valley:

Year-round, although it’s of course a little chillier in the Yarra Valley during winter. Check ahead of time to make sure wineries are open during your visit. Some only open on certain days of the week, or require reservations in advance. Do the planning ahead to avoid being disappointed!

How to get to the Yarra Valley:

You’ll need a car to get here – public transport won’t get you to the cellar doors, unfortunately. Of course, be safe and make sure someone’s the designated driver!

Guided option: Stay safe and hire a driver or join a Melbourne Yarra Valley wine tour like this one which includes visits to 4 wineries, lunch and chocolate tasting, or this day trip to 3 wineries, or this day tour to sample wine, cheese and chocolate.

2. Healesville

Distance from CBD: 65km/1.25 hours

If you want to see wildlife in Australia, then head to Healesville and the famous Healesville Sanctuary.

This renowned wildlife park is dedicated to the preservation and display of Australia’s unique fauna. Visitors can get up close and personal with iconic Australian animals, such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats and platypuses.

Beyond the wildlife, Healesville is also home to some great pubs and distilleries, so plan your trip to the Healesville Sanctuary around lunch. Healesville is in the Yarra Valley, so you can also combine a trip here with visits to the wineries I mentioned earlier.

• Seeing wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary like kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, dingoes, platypuses and native birds (book tickets online here )
• Wandering around Healesville to get a taste of country Australia – stop in at the stores selling local produce, have lunch at a pub or check out the Four Pillars Gin Distillery
• A favourite of mine, the Healesville Hotel has recently undergone a huge reno, making this gastropub even better

Best time to visit Healesville:

Healesville is a great destination year-round. Winters are cold out here. Weekends are particularly busy, so if you want to avoid the crowds, head to the Healesville Sanctuary during the week (just check that restaurants are open).

How to get to Healesville

Healesville is an easy drive from the city. If you’re intent on public transport, you can take a train to Lilydale and then a bus, but it’ll take around 2 hours.

Guided option: Book a tour to Healesville and combine it with other Melbourne attractions like Puffing Billy. This tour combines both with air-conditioned pick-up from the CBD.

3. Dandenong Ranges

Distance from CBD: 50km / 1 hour

The Dandenong Ranges offers a quick escape to nature from the city. An hour east of the city you’ll find great hikes, city views, cute villages and gorgeous gardens to explore.

This area has something for everyone. Hiking? There’s the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Foodie experience? No problem – there are plenty of restaurants and farmgates to visit. Shopping? Check out the boutiques in towns like Olinda and Sassafras. Travelling with kids? Get them on board a historic steam train.

• Taking a ride on the century-old Puffing Billy – this steam train ride through lush temperate rainforest is one of the best things to do in Melbourne with kids (and big kids!)
• Stopping for Devonshire tea at Miss Marple’s Tea Room
• Exploring the sculptures carved into tree trunks and rocks at tranquil William Ricketts Sanctuary or wandering through the picturesque Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
• The great views of the Melbourne skyline from SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
• Hiking through the Dandenong Ranges National Park – the 1000 Steps walk is a 3-kilometre track with plaques that commemorate the soldiers who fought and died on the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea (if you want to know what it’s like trekking the real Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, then read here !)
• Walking the Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track between Sassafras and Emerald – this 15km hike takes 5-6 hours, so this is a day trip in itself!

Best time to visit the Dandenong Ranges:

You can visit the Dandenong Ranges and surrounding area year-round, but rug up in winter. At any time of year, it’s generally a few degrees cooler here than it will be in the city. This is where I live, so I know!

Insider tip: It’s usually very busy here on weekends, especially if the weather is nice, so plan to get here earlier in the day. You’ll find it much quieter during the week.

How to get to the Dandenong Ranges:

Depending on where you want to visit, you can catch public transport to train stations like Belgrave, Upper Ferntree Gully or Croydon, and then walk or bus from there. But if you want to really explore the area at your own pace, then having your own wheels is the best to way to visit the Dandenong Ranges.

Guided option: Although the Dandenong Ranges is just a short drive from the Melbourne CBD, you can leave the planning to someone else on this tour that covers both Puffing Billy and the incredible Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary

4. Macedon Ranges

Distance from CBD: 65km / 1 hour

Less than one hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne is the underrated region of the Macedon Ranges. I’d venture that not many tourists make it up this way when they visit Melbourne, but if you do make the effort, you’ll discover charming towns filled with wineries, restaurants serving up local produce, plenty of outdoor activities and the laidback vibe of country Victoria.

• Taking the scenic drive to the summit of Mt Macedon – especially stunning at sunset
• Exploring the almost 30 cellar doors in the region, including Hanging Rock Winery and Mount Macedon Winery
• Visiting mysterious Hanging Rock, famous for being the location where a group of schoolgirls disappeared mysteriously in 1900 (the story’s actually not true, but because of the Peter Weir movie Picnic at Hanging Rock, most Australians think it is!). You can hike to the peak, which takes about 30 minutes
• Seeing Victoria’s longest single drop waterfall at Trentham Falls – these falls are gorgeous and just a short walk to get to
• Trekking with llamas – yes really!

Best time to visit the Macedon Ranges:

You can visit the Macedon Ranges year-round, but it’s especially beautiful during autumn (Fall) when the leaves start changing colour.

How to get to the Macedon Ranges:

The Macedon Ranges is a region, so if you’re planning to visit a few of the things I’ve just mentioned, you’ll need a car to see them all. Alternatively, if you plan to visit just one town in the region – Trentham or Woodend, for example – you can reach those towns by train from Melbourne.

Melbourne day trips 1-2 hours away

5. mornington peninsula.

Distance from CBD: 75km / 1.5 hours

For such a small slice of land, there’s actually so much to do around the Mornington Peninsula – you could easily turn a visit to the region into multiple day trips or a weekend away.

The Mornington Peninsula is just 1.5 hours from Melbourne city and is a collection of seaside villages ranging from family-friendly beaches to high-end resort areas. There are wineries, art galleries, great bushwalks, and plenty of cafés, restaurants and bars.

• Taking a walk or two through the almost 3,000-hectare Mornington Peninsula National Park, or exploring the military forts and tunnels and former quarantine station of Point Nepean National Park
• Spending some time on the beach – Sorrento Back Beach, Mt Martha and Safety Beach are all good choices, but I’d actually spend the day exploring all the beaches around the peninsula if you have the time!
• Spending a day lazing about in one of the natural springs or pampering yourself with a massage at Peninsula Hot Springs or Alba
• Taking a few pics at the colourful beach bathing boxes that dot the various beaches around the peninsula
• Checking out upscale Sorrento and Portsea for some boutique shopping
• Exploring the wineries around Red Hill – Pt. Leo Estate has a spectacular sculpture garden and two great restaurants, while Montalto and Ten Minutes by Tractor are two other well-regarded wineries in the region
• Getting a great view from Arthurs Seat, either from the various roadside lookouts or from a gondola on the Arthurs Seat Eagle
• Tasting some locally made gin – or even make up your own concoction! – at Bass and Flinders Distillery

Best time to visit the Mornington Peninsula:

Year-round, but it’s very busy during the summer holidays (the week before Christmas to the end of January). Beach car parks are usually full by mid-morning and there are lines for restaurants and cafés. Traffic can bank up for kilometres, so factor traffic jams into your Mornington Peninsula day trip planning.

How to get to the Mornington Peninsula:

A car is going to be the easiest way to get to and around the Mornington Peninsula. You can catch trains from the Melbourne CBD (head to Frankston, Hastings or Stony Point) and then you’ll need to use local bus services, which makes it convoluted and time consuming.

Guided option: There are several tours of the Mornington Peninsula that include transportation from Melbourne. Here are a few that I found online:

• Sightseeing Tour with Bay Sailing – enjoy the sights of the Mornington Peninsula from land and the water
• Mornington Peninsula and Hot Springs Tour – this active day trip includes taking in the views from Arthurs Seat, an 8-kilometre hike and then a soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs 
• Mornington Peninsula Food and Wine Taste Trail – explore the Mornington Peninsula’s culinary side on this full-day tour

6. Bellarine Peninsula

Distance from CBD: 92km / 1.5 hours

On the opposite side of the bay to the Mornington Peninsula is the Bellarine Peninsula, two spits reaching out to each other like arms in a big hug. Like the Mornington Pensinsula, the Bellarine Peninsula is a popular place for summer holidays, offering surf, beaches, historic towns and wineries.

• Stopping at each of the towns around the peninsula and picking your favourite. Visit Queenscliff, Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Portarlington, to name just a few
• Hitting up one or two of the many beaches around this coastal region
• Visiting the Queenscliff Maritime Museum to learn about the area’s marine history
• Touring Fort Queenscliff , built to defend Port Phillip (and Melbourne)
• Checking out the wineries around the Bellarine: Jack Rabbit , Oakdene (with an upside down house!) and Scotchmans Hill are top picks

Best time to visit the Bellarine Peninsula:

Like the Mornington Peninsula, you can visit the Bellarine Peninsula year-round, although it’s cold in the winter months and you won’t even want to dip a toe into the water! During summer, the beaches are packed.

How to get to the Bellarine Peninsula:

Again, a car is going to be the most efficient way to get down to the Bellarine Peninsula. For public transport, you’ll need to get to Geelong (via V/Line train) and then take a bus/es to where you want to go, limiting yourself to what you can see and do in a day.

A fun way to get down here is the ferry – jump on board at Dockalnds in Melbourne and alight at Portarlington. Check tickets here , and you can even arrange a full-day tour with transfers included.

Guided option: Here are some tours that I’ve found online:

• Around the Bay Food and Wine Taste Trail – hit both the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas on this foodie tour of the region
• Bay Sightseeing and Ferry Ride with Lunch – spend a full day exploring with stops at a brewery, scenic lookouts and the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre

7. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Distance from CBD: 112km / 1.5 hours

Rejuvenate yourself in the natural mineral waters that bubble up from the ground in the areas around the two towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. These two towns are a great day trip from Melbourne, offering relaxation, great food and a New Age vibe.

This is one of my favourite day trips from Melbourne – although I’ve only ever visited here on weekends away, actually!

• Soaking at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, with its historic bathhouse . If you don’t want to take a dip, you can simply fill up a bottle from one of the pumps and sip the water instead
• Checking out funky Convent Gallery , now an art gallery and café
• Nibbling on charcuterie and sipping on wine at the very funky Winespeake
• Dining at Lake House , one of Victoria’s (and Australia’s) premier restaurants
• Sipping a few local brews at Daylesford Cider
• Chowing down on an incredible breakfast at Cliffy’s Emporium (delicious!) or dinner at the Farmers Arms Hotel

Best time to visit Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs can both be visited year-round. There’s a special atmosphere, however, during winter you’ll need to rug up, but it’s so cosy sitting in front of fires in cafés and restaurants.

How to get to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

Rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive to Daylesford. V/Line trains and buses run from Melbourne to Woodend; from there you’ll need to get a separate bus to Daylesford.

8. Torquay and Lorne

Distance from CBD: 105km / 1.5 hours (Torquay), 142km / 2 hours (Lorne)

If you don’t have enough time or energy to do a whole Great Ocean Road itinerary (see later on in this post) in one day, then plan a day trip from Melbourne to visit Torquay or Lorne – or both towns.

Torquay is the gateway to the Great Ocean Road, a surf town where it’s perfectly acceptable to wander around barefoot. Lorne is a little more sophisticated, but still charming and relaxed. While there’s a lot to do in the area, the chilled out vibe of these towns makes a visit one of the most relaxed day drives from Melbourne.

• Learning about surfing at the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay
• Hitting up the beaches along the coast – Bells Beach is world-famous and a great spot to watch surfers, Torquay Front Beach has calm waters and Lorne Beach is conveniently in the main part of town
• Exploring Erskine Falls, just outside of Lorne
• Learning to surf at Torquay Surf Academy or Go Ride a Wave
• Sipping some local brews at Blackman’s Brewery and Bells Beach Brewing (both in Torquay)
• Learning about the history of the Great Ocean Road at the Great Ocean Road Story exhibit at the visitor centre in Lorne

Best time to visit:

You can visit Torquay and Lorne year-round. You’ll find fewer crowds if you come on the edges of the summer holidays (early to mid-December and then late January) but still have great summer weather (hopefully!). Winter is colder of course, but you’ll still be able to spot surfers. If you’re brave enough to take a surf lesson in winter, surf classes are usually offered at a discount.

How to get to Torquay and Lorne:

Rent your own car so that you can plan a leisurely day of driving between the two towns and then back to Melbourne. You’ll need a car to get to places like Bells Beach.

On public transport, you can take a V/Line train to Geelong and then a bus to Torquay or Lorne.

9. Ballarat

Distance from CBD: 116km / 1.5 hours

Ballarat was built off the back of the 1850s gold rush, and you can still see the spoils in the town’s streets. Grand old buildings still stand today, and attractions that recognise the past draw thousands of visitors each year.

• Visiting Sovereign Hill , a “living museum” that immerses visitors in life in a gold rush township. This is one of the best things to do in Victoria for families. Here, you can pan for gold or dress up in Victorian costume for a photo
• Checking out the Eureka Centre and learning about the Eureka Rebellion
• Browsing the Art Gallery of Ballarat , the oldest regional art gallery in Australia
• Exploring 40 colourful hectares of flowers, gardens and trees at Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Best time to visit Ballarat:

Ballarat is fine to visit year-round, although winters can be brutally cold. My grandparents used to live nearby and I always froze when we visited them in winter. Rug up!

How to get to Ballarat:

Rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne to Ballarat, or take a direct V/Line train from Melbourne to Ballarat (which also takes about the same amount of time).

10. Geelong

Distance from CBD: 75km / 1 hour and 15 mins

Melburnians have often looked down their nose at Victoria’s second-largest city, but Geelong is coming into its own. It’s now filled with hip restaurants, funky galleries and street art, and there’s a beautiful waterfront that’s perfect for strolling.

• Strolling along the Geelong Waterfront and finding unique pieces of outdoor art
• Visiting the Geelong Art Gallery to see some notable Australian artworks
• Learning about the importance of wool at the National Wool Museum
• Discovering Fyansford Paper Mill , a picturesque old bluestone paper mill that’s now jammed with wineries, cafés and arts and crafts stalls
• Visiting the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn about the Aboriginal connection to land

Best time to visit Geelong:

Geelong is great to visit year-round, although summer and the warmer months mean better weather for wandering along the waterfront. As one of Victoria’s bigger cities, there are events held throughout the year.

How to get to Geelong:

As usual, the easiest way to get to Geelong is by car. The city is well connected to Melbourne via V/Line trains that run regularly every day and take around an hour.

Guided option: This tour includes the Geelong Waterfront, Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre and a bay cruise.

11. Castlemaine

Distance from CBD: 129km / 1.5 hours

Located in the goldfields region in central Victoria, Castlemaine is another destination that isn’t often on the radar of visitors to Melbourne. This is country Victoria at is most charming, with 18 th century buildings mixing with funky art galleries and trendy cafés serving locally grown produce.

• Visiting the Castlemaine Art Museum , which dates back to 1913
• Seeing Castlemaine’s vibrant culture of food and arts at The Mill , a former woollen mill that’s now a hub for small businesses and foodies
• Hunting for antiques at one of Castlemaine’s many antique shops
• Exploring abandoned mines at the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park , a gold rush-era site

Best time to visit Castlemaine:

Year-round, but like many parts of central Victoria, Castlemaine can be chilly (although atmospheric) during winter.

How to get to Castlemaine:

Rent a car so you can explore the town at your leisure, or jump on a V/Line train from Melbourne to Castlemaine (1.5 hours).

12. Bendigo

Distance from CBD: 153km / just under 2 hours

Another of Victoria’s gold rush towns, Bendigo is now fast becoming renowned for its culinary scene. In fact, in 2019 it was crowned Australia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy. So, come here to fill your belly but also learn about the town’s history.

• Browsing the award-winning Bendigo Art Gallery
• Riding the Bendigo Talking Tram , restored trams that drive the highlights of Bendigo with narrated history and information
• Going down, down, down up 228 metres underground at the Central Deborah Gold Mine , a former working mine – not an activity for you if you’re claustrophobic!
• Learning about Chinese heritage in Australia at the Golden Dragon Museum
• Getting behind the wheel or simply buying a souvenir from Bendigo Pottery
• Reflecting at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion , an almost 50-metre-high pagoda
• Sipping shiraz at the gorgeous Balgownie Estate cellar door

Best time to visit Bendigo:

Bendigo is a great city to visit year-round, although it’s cold in winter.

How to get to Bendigo:

Hire a car for the 2-hour drive to Bendigo, or there are regular V/Line trains from Melbourne to Bendigo each day.

13. Phillip Island

Distance from CBD: 142km / 2 hours

Mention Phillip Island and it’ll usually elicit awwwws for the cute little penguins that waddle up the beach each night to sleep in their burrows. But penguins aren’t the only nature you’ll see here – there are seals, koalas, birdlife and other Australian creatures.

Oh, and the Hemsworth brothers spent part of their early lives on Phillip Island – Liam apparently has a house here, so you might be lucky to spot him!

• Watching the nightly Penguin Parade
• Cruising past Seal Rock and spotting plenty of, well, seals
• Taking a virtual journey to Antarctica with the interactive and immersive experiences at the Antarctic Journey
• Wandering the tree-top boardwalks to see cuddly koalas at the Koala Conser vation Reserve
• Becoming a revhead at the Phillip Island Circuit , where you can drive a BMW around the track, mess about on Go Karts or visit the History of Motorsport Museum
• Gorging at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Best time to visit Phillip Island:

Winters are cold – even in summer the whipping wind puts quite a chill in the air, so come with a jacket. The little penguins come ashore all year around, but you’ll be able to fit more into your day trip during the summer months when the sun sets around 8.45pm.

How to get to Phillip Island:

This is a day trip from Melbourne where I’d recommend visiting by car, because getting here by public transport is fiddly and time-consuming.

Guided option: Because Phillip Island is such a popular day trip from Melbourne, there are plenty of tours that include transport from the city:

• Phillip Island Tour and Penguin Parade – this full-day tour includes penguin spotting, as well as encounters with kangaroos, wombats and echidnas
• Penguins and Wildlife Full Day Tour – this tour includes plenty of wildlife spotting as well as an extensive tour of the island
• Seal Watching Cruise – get out on the water to spot seals (note that this tour  doesn’t  include transport to and from Phillip Island)
• Phillip Island Day Tour – hike around Cape Woolamai and see koalas at the Maru Koala Wildlife Sanctuary
• French and Phillip Island Wildlife Expedition – take a ferry across Western Port Bay for a 4WD tour of French Island, before ferrying over to Phillip Island

Day trips 2+ hours from Melbourne

14. great ocean road.

Distance from CBD: 227km / 2 ¾ hours (to Twelve Apostles)

One of Australia’s most spectacular drives, the Great Ocean Road is famous for scenic views, charming seaside towns and villages and – of course – the Twelve Apostles. Driving the Great Ocean Road is one of the best road trips in Australia.

While I actually think you really need more time to enjoy this magical part of Victoria (take a look at my 3 day Great Ocean Road itinerary for recommendations), it is possible to do a Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne in a day. Just plan ahead, get an early start – and know that you’ll probably be pretty exhausted at the end of the day.

Don’t attempt to do it all. Just pick a few things from my list of the most fun things to do on the Great Ocean Road and enjoy the day!

I’d recommend taking a guided tour (see below) or sharing the driving with someone else.

• Gazing out at the 12 Apostles of course! This the most famous landmark along the coast – if not across Victoria
• Visiting Loch Ard Gorge and learning about the tragic history of this area
• Koala spotting around Kennett River or on the road to the Cape Otway Lightstation
• Watching surfers at Bells Beach
• Snapping a few pics at Split Point Lighthouse in Airey’s Inlet or taking the stairs to the top of the Cape Otway Lightstation
• Exploring Cape Otway National Park’s rainforests and waterfalls
• Taking a helicopter tour over the 12 Apostles for a completely different view of this famed sight

Best time to visit the Great Ocean Road:

You can visit the Great Ocean Road year-round, although it’s colder in the winter months and very busy during summer, particularly when school holidays are on.

How to get to the Great Ocean Road:

The best way to visit the Great Ocean Road is to rent your own car so you stop when you want. And believe me, you’ll be pulling over frequently to take photos. You can take the Great Ocean Road from Torquay to Allansford (the official end of the Great Ocean Road), and then go inland back to Melbourne (a 3-hour drive).

Guided option: If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are full-day tours to the highlights of the Great Ocean Road:

• Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Full Day Tour – see the best of the Great Ocean Road on this 11-hour Melbourne Great Ocean Road tour
• One Day Reverse Great Ocean Road Tour – avoid the crowds by doing the opposite route that most tours and day trippers take
• Great Ocean Road Sunset and Chocolate Tour – hit the Great Ocean Road with a sweet stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery

15. Great Otway National Park

Distance from CBD: 211km / 2 ¾ hours

If you’re in need of nature, the Great Otway National Park will deliver in spades. This 103,000-hectare national park is stunning. It’s along the Great Ocean Road, so you can potentially squeeze both in in a very long day of travelling.

• Exploring the gorgeous Hopetoun, Beachchamp and Triplet Falls – Hopetoun is my favourite
• Exploring the rainforest on the Maits Rest rainforest walk
• Heading to the top of the Cape Otway Lightstation , Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse
• Learning about native foods during a Native Plants Talk with a First Nations guide at the Cape Otway Lightstation
• Gazing up at the huge trees in the California Redwood Forest
• Seeing glow worms at Melba Gully
• Spotting koalas on the road to the Cape Otway Lightstation. Just keep an eye out for cars parked along the side of the road, that’s how you’ll find them!

Best time to visit the Great Otway National Park:

The Great Otway National Park can be visited all year. But like the rest of Victoria it’s quite cold this way during winter. Summer holidays mean the area around the Great Ocean Road is busy. So make sure you leave Melbourne early so you can visit some of the hiking trails and waterfalls before the crowds descend.

How to get to the Great Otway National Park:

Like the Great Ocean Road, you need your own car to explore the Great Otway National Park at your own pace. There’s no public transport that goes directly to the park, nor is their transport within the park.

Guided option: 12 Apostles, Otways and Great Ocean Road – This Great Ocean Road day tour includes a drive through the Great Otway National Park, visiting Beauchamp Falls and the Californian Redwoods Forest

16. Gariwerd (Grampians National Park)

Distance from CBD: 258km / 3 hours

Heritage-listed Gariwerd (Grampians National Park) is one of Victoria’s most stunning places to visit. On a day trip here you can discover Aboriginal rock art paintings, incredible hikes with spectacular vistas, magnificent waterfalls, and maybe even spot a kangaroo or an emu.

This is another trip from Melbourne that I don’t think you should do in just a day. But if you’re short on time it is possible. You’ll need to get up early and be prepared for a long day.

• Learning about First Nations culture and history at the Brambuk Cultural Centre
• Taking in MacKenzie Falls, a 35-metre-tall waterfall that flows all year
• Hiking through the park to some incredible viewpoints. The Wonderland Loop or Balconies Lookout should be doable on a day trip
• Exploring Aboriginal rock art and shelters that are around 20,000 years old
• Eating a hard-earned, post-hike meal at the famous Royal Mail Hotel in nearby Dunkeld

Best time to visit Grampians National Park:

Visit Gariwerd year round – although expect chilly weather in winter. This is a huge national park. People do get lost here, so come prepared with plenty of water and dress appropriately for hiking.

How to get to Grampians National Park:

While you can get to Halls Gap (the nearest town to the national park) on a mix of public transport, you will need a car to get around Gariwerd.

Guided option:  Day trips from Melbourne to Grampians National Park include:

• Grampians National Park and Kangaroos – marvel at breathtaking views and spot kangaroos
• Grampians Small-Group Hiking Day Tour from Melbourne – this tour stops at the best Grampians hikes

17. Wilsons Promontory

Distance from CBD: 239km / 3 hours (to Tidal River)

Our final destination on this list of the best day trips from Melbourne goes to yet another location that I think deserves more of your time than just a day.

Wilsons Promontory – better known as Wilsons Prom or The Prom – is the southernmost point of mainland Australia. This slice of land jutting off the coast is home to white-sand beaches, impossibly blue water, great bushwalks and a plethora of wildlife.

You’ll need to set off early and have your day planned well – it’s a 3-hour trip each way by car.

• Walking over Squeaky Beach – a beach that literally squeaks underfoot
• Spotting wildlife on the 2.3-kilometre Prom Wildlife Walk
• Taking in the Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk, a 5-kilometre walk where you can usually spot plenty of wildlife
• Climbing to Mt Oberon Summit, a 7-kilometre return trip
• Swimming at Norman Bay (but note that it’s only patrolled during January)
• Seeing Skull Island by boat with Wildlife Coast Cruises
• Whale watching during the right season (May to October)

Best time to visit Wilsons Promontory:

You can take a day trip to Wilsons prom year-round, but its coastal location means that there can be brisk breezes throughout the year, but especially so during winter. Take note of fire warnings during fire season.

How to get to Wilsons Promontory:

To really explore The Prom, you’ll need a car for sure. It’s quite a remote area and there’s no transport within the park.

Guided option: A day trip to Wilsons Prom is a  long day, so leave the driving to someone else on one of these day tours:

• Wilsons Promontory Day Tour – this full-day tour includes a hike up Mount Oberon and lunch at Tidal River
• Whale Spotting Cruise with Lunch – while this tour doesn’t include transport to Wilsons Prom, it’s a spectacular chance to spot migrating humpback and southern right whales between May and October

Wrap up: Melbourne day trips

As you’ve seen, there are so many fantastic day trips from Melbourne. While I love this city, I know that there are so many places to visit outside Melbourne that are worth your while.

So, take your pick from small towns, beaches, mountains and culture. While Melbourne is an incredible city, you can also make time to see what else Victoria has to offer!

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Related posts

Before you go… you might like some of these Melbourne travel blog posts:

• 3 days in Melbourne itinerary
• The absolute best things to do in Melbourne
• Ultimate Melbourne bucket list
• Where to eat in Melbourne
• Where to stay in Melbourne
• Best time to visit Melbourne
• Fun things to do in Melbourne at night
• Great things to do in Melbourne with kids
• Free things to do in Melbourne

Best Melbourne resources

• Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
• Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
• Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
• You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

PIN IT FOR LATER:

Save this guide to the best day trips to Melbourne to Pinterest for later.

About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

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Train day trips from Melbourne

Day trip by train to geelong, day trip by train to ballarat, puffing billy and the dandenong ranges, train and ferry to phillip island, need accommodation.

Day trip by train to Bendigo

Day trip by train to traralgon, day trip by train to seymour or shepparton, steam train day-trip to maldon, around the bay in a day, yarra valley wine region..

13 Must-See Day Trips from Melbourne – Victoria, Australia

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

Melbourne is incredible in and of itself, but the extensive amount of day trips from Melbourne make it that much more incredible. While the culture, coffee, bars, history, laneways, and food make the city great, the amazing amount of natural beauty surrounding the city renders it a fantastic base to travel or to live.

I spent the second year of my working holiday visa living in Melbourne and leading walking tours around the city each day. As it was literally my job to know the city and its surroundings, I have helped thousands of travelers plan their day trips in Victoria. I would like to think this makes me pretty darn qualified to recommend the best Melbourne day tours and trips (and general Melbourne tips!) to you as well.

If you are looking for other tips on Melbourne, I’ve got you covered as well – just click the links below! But for the best day trips from Melbourne, read on. I’ll give my best tips from my experience on these days trips, recommend to stay more days when applicable, let you know where would be best to rent a car and drive , and always link to the most trusted day tour provider I have tried and tested myself.

Check Out My Other Articles about Melbourne Day Trips:

• 50  Places to Visit in Melbourne : A Melbourne Travel Guide Organized by Suburb
• Things to Do in Ballarat : A Melbourne Getaway
• Visiting Mount Hotham : A Snowy Getaway from Melbourne
• Great Ocean Road Itinerary: 2-3 Day Self-Drive Trip
• Mornington Peninsula Activities + Things to Do

Great Ocean Road

What it is: Gorgeous Rugged Coastline road trips

How far from Melbourne:  The Great Ocean Road starts at least 1.5-2 hours from the city, and is at LEAST a 3-hour drive to the end.

How to Get There: Follow signs to Geelong and join the Great Ocean Road just past Anglesea

Recommended Day Tour: Great Ocean Road Day Tour with Go West Tours

If you haven’t heard of this Melbourne day trip by now, you’re missing out! The Great Ocean Road is perhaps the number one option for day trips from Melbourne, as it allows you to experience the rugged and beautiful Victorian coastline.

The Great Ocean Road gives you an entirely different perspective on the region than you can get in the city. You’ll drive through quaint little beach towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay , get to search for wild koalas climbing gumtrees out in the country, experience the sheer power of mother nature through powerful waves crashing on distant rocks, and view famous natural landmarks you may have seen in guidebooks and on Pinterest.

Best Stops on the Great Ocean Road Day Trip from Melbourne

There are important Great Ocean Road trip stops throughout the entire journey, which your driver will be very familiar with. Perhaps the most famous stop on Great Ocean Road day trips from Melbourne is the Twelve Apostles. The 12 apostles used to have twelve standalone cliffs out amid the waves on the shore, but today there are only seven remaining. Either way, it’s a gorgeous must-see sight in Victoria.

My other personal favorite stops along the way are London Bridge (a beautiful sandstone rock out in the ocean that used to be connected to the land) and the Loch Ard Gorge . You’ll see all these stops on a tour from Melbourne, but you can see WAY more if you rent a car and explore for a few days. Check out my perfect Great Ocean Road 3 Day Itinerary here or my Great Ocean Road Accommodation Guide if you’d like to do that. Or, you can view the 12 apostles from a Melbourne helicopter ride.

Must See : Memorial Arch, Teddy’s Lookout Rock, Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge

Dandenong Ranges – Puffing Billy and Belgrave

What it is:  Beautiful mountain ranges (with a steam train) just outside the city

How far from Melbourne: about 45 minutes from the CBD

How to Get There: Rent a car and drive east , or travel by train to the base of the mountains

Recommended Day Tour: Dandenong + Puffing Billy Half Day   or Dandenong Ranges + William Ricketts Sanctuary Tour (a beautiful garden in the mountains)

The Dandenong Ranges are a bit of an undiscovered gem in my opinion. It’s not one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne, but really should be due to the remote beauty of the mountain ranges.

Within the Dandenong Ranges, you can find all sorts of undiscovered gems along the way. The beautiful town of Belgrave is home to some amazing eateries and the famous Puffing Billy train , which is a decked-out steam train that serves meals and provides amazing views to patrons riding it through the mountainous region.

You can explore some gorgeous small mountain towns and explore lots of different forest hikes and mountain trails even in the cool climate. There are a gorgeous botanic gardens too – an area called the Alfred Nicholas Gardens as well the William Ricketts Sanctuary , for any plant lovers out there.

Perhaps the most famous viewpoint of the Dandenong Ranges is from Sky High , a restaurant at the top of Mt Dandenong. Here you can try different types of food and telescopes looking out over the land, towards the city and other mountain regions of Victoria. Spot wild kookaburra as you hike to Burke’s lookout, which has a pristine view of Melbourne’s city skyline on a clear day.

Must See : Puffing Billy, Sky High, Burke’s Lookout

Phillip Island + Penguin Parade

What it is: An island inhabited by hundreds (thousands?) of indigenous (tiny!) penguins

How far from Melbourne: About 2 hours from the CBD

How to Get There: Take a day tour or rent a car driving south

Recommended Day Tour: Moonlit Sanctuary + Penguin Parade with Bunyip Tours (allows you to see Australian animals at a wildlife park along the way with lunch)

Phillip Island is one of Australia ‘s best day trips, and rightfully so! Although kangaroos and koalas are definitely very exciting, one of the most local wildlife species to view in Victoria is the ‘little penguins.’ They used to be called the ‘fairy penguin,’ but they have been aptly renamed because they are, well…. little penguins!

What to See on Phillip Island on a Day Trip from Melbourne

When visiting Phillip Island, you can experience what they call the ‘ penguin parade ‘ as dozens if not hundreds of these lil’ guys pop out of the water at dusk to make their homes on land for the night. You’ll sit in a stadium-like area to make sure their habitat is respected while still having a great vantage point. This happens at sunset, so it depends on the time of year that the penguin parade will happen.

Some Phillip island day tours are half-day, but some are longer and include a visit to a wildlife sanctuary to view other types of classic Australian animals. You may also want to look into an explore at Summerland Beach or the famous ‘ seal rocks’ on Phillip Island also. Many tours stop at the Moonlit Sanctuary about halfway between the city and Phillip Island.

Must See : Penguin Parade

Grampians National Park

What it is: Bushy + Rocky Mountains with waterfalls and rich aboriginal culture

How far from Melbourne: About a 3 hour drive from Melbourne CBD

How to Get There:  Take a day tour or rent a car driving northwest up the M8

Recommended Day Tour: Grampians Day Tour   with Autopia Tours takes you to all important POI’s and the cultural center!

The Grampians National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty and rock formations in a more regional part of Victoria. Due to its distance, it’s recommendable as a weekend trip but still doable to see its main sights in a day trip from Melbourne. Day tours from Melbourne to the Grampians will leave the city very early, but they will be worthwhile to experience main viewpoints, hikes, and waterfalls.

What to See on a Day Trip from Melbourne to the Grampians

The Grampians National Park is known for its extensive native wildlife and rock formations/mountain regions. You can walk to high vantage points like Boroka Lookout over the valley with many hikes of varying difficulties throughout the park. There are also some famous waterfalls that are popular to visit, namely MacKenzie Falls.

It’s highly advisable to explore the cultural center when visiting the Grampians National Park, as well. The local aboriginal tribes have an extremely rich culture full of fascinating legends on how the area came about. You’ll learn all the different theories on colorful animals and regions while educating yourself on one of Australia ‘s historic indigenous cultures.

Must See: MacKenzie Falls, Hall’s Gap, Boroka Lookout, Cultural center

Yarra Valley

What it is: Wine Region with scenic rolling hills

How far from Melbourne: About an hour from Melbourne CBD

How to Get There:  Take a full day tour or rent a car and travel directly east

Recommended Day Tour: Yarra Valley Gourmet Tour with Go West Tours – wine, fruit, cheese, AND chocolate!

The Yarra Valley is an absolute must for those who love wine, alcohol in general, and/or rolling hilly regions. Generally less than an hour outside the city, the Yarra Valley is a stunning departure from the city bustle and easily done in a simple day trip.

Many day trips from Melbourne to Yarra Valley will visit 3-4 of the best wineries as well as a selection of other venues to change it up a little. Check on the itinerary of your tour of choice to make sure it visits all the stops you’d like to see! My personal fave is the Go West tour linked above, which visits plenty of wineries AND places to taste fresh fruit/juice, cheese, AND chocolate!

What to See on a Day Trip from Melbourne to Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is pretty special because there are over 150 wineries dotted through the countryside. While exploring these wineries, you can also visit a fresh dairy (helloooo, fresh cheese), a famous Gin Distillery called Four Pillars , a cider brewery , and the famous Yarra Valley chocolaterie . In other words, there’s plenty of wine, and also variety as well!

If you have more time and want to stay on a winery for the ultimate experience, check out my guide to Yarra Valley wineries with accommodation! 

Must See : a few wineries, at least! Also a few of a dairy, chocolaterie, gin distillery, and cider brewery.

Mornington Peninsula

What it is: A scenic peninsula south of the city with beach towns, farmland viewpoints, and more wine.

How far from Melbourne: Between 30-90 mins from Melbourne CBD

How to Get There:  Take a day tour or rent a car driving directly south to the Mornington Peninsula. Public Transport only goes to the northern end of the peninsula.

Recommended Day Tour:  Peninsula + Hot Springs Tour with Hide and Seek (for adventurers – includes viewpoints, a 5 mile hike, and then the peninsula hot springs!) OR Mornington Peninsula Day Tour with Bunyip Tours for those who prefer strolling along beaches (Sorrento/Portsea included) and tasting wine! Both tours are fab.

The Mornington Peninsula may not grace the top of the lists on day trips on Victoria, but it’s yet another lesser-known gem in Melbourne tourism. The peninsula faces Port Phillip Bay on one side (perfect calm waters and pristine beaches) and the open ocean on the other (heavy surf and rocky areas). There are some perfect Mornington Peninsula Beaches for surfing OR relaxing and plenty of Mornington Peninsula activities.

What to See on a Mornington Peninsula Day Trip from Melboure

Between the two bodies of water are r olling hills of farmland, sheep/cows, small beachy towns, and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the coastline. Arthur’s seat is a famously touristy part of the peninsula, with a cable car going up a scenic beachside hill. There are dozens of wineries and also Mornington Peninsula Breweries to visit as you make your way around, the most incredible of which is a winery/restaurant/sculpture garden called Pt Leo Estate.

Sorrento and Portsea are well-known beachside towns on either side of the thin tip of the peninsula. Mornington is a trendy town on the bay side of the peninsula. There are lots of gorgeous walks to do along the cliffy coastlines, and once you’re finished, you can dip in the warm waters of the amazing Peninsula Hot Springs . If you want to stay longer, check out my Mornington Peninsula Accommodation guide .

Must See: Arthur’s Seat, wine tasting, bush walking, hot springs

Daylesford/Hepburn Springs

What it is: A relaxing mountainside getaway

How far from Melbourne: About a 1.5 hour short drive from Melbourne

How to Get There: Rent a car and drive northwest – there are a few day tours but mostly private/wine tours

Recommended Day Tour: Daylesford Wine Tour  or a weekend trip.

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are known to be a relaxing getaway from Melbourne. Daylesford’s most popular feature is why it’s called a ‘spa town:’  pools of hot mineral springs at Daylesford Day Spa . You can visit mineral springs, explore galleries in the quaint town, and dine lakeside at some highly acclaimed restaurants.

Although possible as a day trip, I would highly recommend Daylesford as a weekend getaway from Melbourne ! The area is also a popular wine region, with dozens of wineries in the area.

Must See : Hot Springs, Lake Daylesford

The Macedon Ranges + Hanging Rock

What it is: Adventurous hikes + historical mountains

How far from Melbourne: About a 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne near Daylesford

How to Get There: Rent a car and drive northwest or visit after Daylesford

Recommended Day Tour: I don’t think there are any – this is a real self-drive day trip from Melbourne

Nearby Daylesford, you will find the beautiful Macedon Ranges . If relaxing isn’t your thing (or before you unwind in the hot springs) there are plenty of trails to hike in the area. Check out Mount Macedon for the most incredible view, or many more trails and tiny country towns as well.

Hanging Rock is the most famous place in the Macedon Ranges, famous for its part in the movie Picnic at Hanging Rock . It’s a mysterious extinct volcano that also has rich aboriginal significance as well.

Healesville Sanctuary

What it is: Sanctuary to experience Australian Wildlife

How far from Melbourne: About an Hour

How to Get There: Rent a Car, Take a Tour, or travel by train and bus.

Recommended Day Tour: Healesville Sanctuary + Puffing Billy Combined Tour  

Healesville Sanctuary is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne and places for visitors to experience Aussie wildlife. It’s not a complete trip down under unless you get to experience some kangaroos and koalas, is it?! Healesville is a perfect destination to combine with a trip to the Dandenong Ranges or with Yarra Valley, and many day tours do so.

You can feel content that the animals are kept in a natural bushland setting and allowed to roam freely. Spend a few hours exploring many different species of marsupial, mammal, reptile, and bird!

Must See : Aussie animals!

Ballarat + Sovereign Hill Day Trips from Melbourne

What it is: An inland Gold Mining Town

How far from Melbourne: about 1.5 hours north

How to Get There: Rent a car, take a day tour, or take a direct train

Recommended Day Tour: Sovereign Hill + Ballarat Tour from Melbourne with Gray Line

Visiting Ballarat is like stepping back in time. Ballarat was the epicenter of Victoria’s massive gold rush in the mid-1800’s, and there are still many remnants of this rich history there today.

Sovereign Hill is an actual replica of what the gold rush town may have looked like all those years ago – complete with gift shops, craft stores, restaurants, and even gold panning opportunities! You can also visit an old mine and experience what it may have been like.

The Gold Museum is a fascinating look back into the gold rush period, and you can also visit the Eureka Center to learn about a rebellion in 1854 that shaped the future of Australia. There are lots of trendy eateries in the Ballarat CBD, and you must also take a walk by Lake Wendouree for a bit of peace and quiet. See my Ballarat Travel Guide for an in-depth look at visiting the area!

Must See : Sovereign Hill, Gold Museum, Lake Wendouree

Wilsons Promontory National Park

What it is: A seaside national park with animals, coast, and forest

How far from Melbourne: Under 3 hours from the CBD

How to Get There:  Take a day tour or rent a car driving southeast.

Recommended Day Tour: Wilsons  Promontory National Park Day Tour with Bunyip Tours

Wilsons Promontory National Park is another gorgeous area of nature in Victoria, and one of the most rugged day trips from Melbourne. It’s a National Park with gorgeous viewpoints looking down pristine coastlines and rock, complete with hiking trails that could take you for miles and miles. In fact, the hiking in Wilson’s Prom  is among the best in Victoria.

What to See on a Day Trip from Melbourne to Wilson’s Prom

There are dozens of beaches to explore in what is actually the most south point of mainland Australia. The famous ‘ squeaky beach ‘ actually has sand so white and fine that it squeaks when you walk on it!

It’s a huge area, but the day tour will take you to all the best bits within one big day. You’ll see some of the best viewpoints such as Mt Bishop and empty beaches, but perhaps one of the biggest pulls of this day trip is the wildlife. ‘Wilson’s Prom,’ as they call it for short, is inundated with local kangaroos and other marsupials, so make sure to keep your eyes out!

Must See: Squeaky Beach, Mt Bishop

Mount Buller + Ski Area

What it is: One of the closest skiing mountains to Melbourne

How far from Melbourne: About 3.5 Hours

How to Get There: Take a day tour, rent a car, or travel by coach

Recommended Day Tour: Mt Buller Day Tour on RedBalloon

Many people are unfamiliar with the beautiful ‘Victorian Alps’ region. Mt Buller would also be much better as a longer trip, but the area is worth checking out as a day trip if you don’t have much time.

Mt Buller is an alpine terrain park where you can explore and adventure to your heart’s content: skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, and more. You’ll have about 5 hours of free time on Mt Buller day trips from Melbourne, which surely is plenty to try out a few runs and more. You can also reserve snow gear as well. Day tours will also stop in quite a few other small towns and scenic viewpoints to round out the journey.

There’s also a great alpine village in Mt Buller if you are not quite the skiing type but want to enjoy the area. Visitors can enjoy many different food options alongside walks and viewpoints. There are also sled dog tours! I visited Mt Hotham too which is a mountain close by.

Must See: Mt Buller Village Square, Mountain Vistas/Snow

Silo Art Trail

What it is: Massive murals painted on country silos

How far from Melbourne: Between 3 and 5.5 hours from beginning to end

How to Get There: Rent a Car and Drive!

Recommended Day Tour:  You’ll have to rent a car and do this adventure yourself! 🙂

There are various parts of rural Victoria whose silos have been graced by the mural art of some incredible artists. These silos can be visited in order on what is known as the Silo Art Trail. Visit the silo art trail website to view a map and learn about all the official locations of these murals.

This silo art is actually known as Australia’s largest outdoor art gallery. It’s a brilliant way to get more people to visit the smaller country communities, and an incredible style of art not very attainable in other parts of the world.

To create these artworks, well-known artists met with the local indigenous communities of the areas and created artworks that represented unique stories about that town and its people. If you’d like to get out a bit more into real country Australia, and see how the farmers live in more remote corners of the state, this maybe the the Melbourne day trip for you!

Must See : Each silo that is part of the trail!

Geelong + You Yangs Regional Park

What it is: Beachside city and bush walks

How far from Melbourne: 1-1.5 hours

How to Get There: Rent a car or travel by train

Recommended Day Tour: You’ll have to rent a car and explore yourself! 🙂

Geelong is the second-largest city in Victoria. It’s located on the Bellarine Penisula in the southwestern part of Port Phillip Bay. Geelong is much more laid back than Melbourne, and is defined by its beautiful botanic gardens, seaside paths, restaurants, museums, and galleries.

A perfect day trip from Melbourne would be to mix in a visit to Geelong with a stop at the nearby beach, Torquay , and a beautiful mountainous regional park called the You Yangs . Torquay area is roughly considered the starting point of the Great Ocean Road, and usually has lots of windsurfers and people on the sand.

The You Yangs regional park is the perfect place to have a classic Aussie bushwalk. The park has a few large hills with trails throughout. The trails are only mildly challenging. But, they present incredible views of the surrounding farmland and also of the Melbourne city skyline.

All of the destinations above are fine as day trips, but many would be preferable as weekend trips so that you can spend more time and make the most of your time there.

So if you’d like to keep reading about other places to visit from Melbourne, but this time for places you should visit for LONGER than just a day trip, check out my article on Melbourne weekend getaways right here.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Fantastic Day Trips From Melbourne

• Australia and South Pacific
• Destinations

Tourists often feel they have to take day tours or hire a car to visit tourist attractions outside Melbourne. Not so. Most of the best attractions are accessible by using trains and buses — if you know how. Here are DIY trips using public transport in my home city. Fares start at under $5 (U.S.). Regional trips range from $27 to $40 one way. When you organize outings yourself you won’t feel herded or have to share the views with other bobbing heads.

1. Dandenong Ranges 

The Dandenong Ranges can feel like a world away with “Mountain Ash,” the world’s tallest flowering plant, fern gullies, tinkling streams, and forest walks. 

It’s not. The area is part of metropolitan Melbourne. Trains run every 30 minutes and the journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

From central Melbourne, catch a train to Belgrave Station, a small township in the Dandenong Ranges. Walk 5 minutes to Puffing Billy Station, a famous narrow-gauge heritage railway. Operating since 1900, Puffing Billy Railway was one of four low-cost narrow-gauge lines built in the early 1900s to transport goods to remote communities.

Instead, holidaymakers came from Melbourne to take the train for weekend getaways.

The steam train huffs and puffs along the 15 miles of line from Belgrave to Gembrook and return. The journey takes in the southern reaches of Sherbrooke Forest, a temperate rainforest with giant ferns and trestle bridges spanning gaping gullies.

Stop at Lakeside for a cafe lunch and stunning short walks in the surrounding forest. Rent a bike and explore the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail alongside Puffing Billy’s track.

The Puffing Billy ride from Belgrave to Lakeside (return) takes 3 hours, with an hour spent at Lakeside. Or Belgrave to Gembrook (return) is 5.5 hours with 2 hours at Gembrook.

Belgrave, followed by an iconic ride on Puffing Billy, is the easiest way to access the Dandenong Ranges. Another option is to approach the Ranges from the Ferntree Gully side. Either walk into the forest from the Upper Ferntree Gully Station or take bus 688 across the top of the mountain from Upper Ferntree Gully Station via the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road. Sit on the bus for a joyous and curvaceous drive with scenic views and stop at quaint villages. Or disembark at tourist attractions including William Ricketts Sanctuary, Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, 1000 Steps Walking Track , Cloudehill Garden & Nursery , and Miss Marples , a tearoom devoted to Miss Marple memorabilia. 

The bus map and train timetables are on the PTV website .

Pro Tip: A time-honored tradition on Puffing Billy is sitting on the carriage sill and dangling one’s legs over the side.

2. Werribee Park 

Southwest of Melbourne is the Werribee Park Precinct, a cluster of world-class attractions. The most imposing is Werribee Park Mansion , one of Victoria’s most opulent historical properties, with 60 rooms. Wander the formal gardens and heritage orchard. Smell the roses at the State Rose Garden of Victoria . Entry to the gardens is free. Mansion and garden audio tours cost about $5.

Lancemore Mansion Hotel Werribee Park offers meals, Sunday high teas, and an excellent day spa . Visit the bar or lobby for a drink in ritzy surroundings. Shadowfax Winery , an architecturally designed cellar door with award-winning wines and Mediterranean-inspired meals, is about a 14-minute walk.

Come face-to-face with a pride of lions and visit one of the world‘s largest gorilla exhibits at Werribee Open Range Zoo . The entry fee includes safari tours through the savanna amongst herds of rhinos, giraffes, and zebras. Stay overnight on a Slumber Safari in luxury lodges. Australia has some unforgettable overnight zoo experiences !

Catch a train from the Melbourne CBD to Werribee Station (on the Werribee Line). Outside the station, catch Bus 439 Werribee South to the Zoo. The total journey takes 1.2 hours.

3. Healesville Sanctuary 

Locals take their international visitors to Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley to meet Australian wildlife such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, and platypuses. 

Enjoy the zookeeper talks about koalas and kangaroos and walk amidst grazing kangaroos. The flight presentation featuring the wedge-tailed eagle is spectacular.

Take the Lilydale Line from central Melbourne. Lilydale is at the end of the train line, and you’ll be in the countryside lined with vineyards. Catch bus 685 outside the station. A bus change may be required depending on the day. The trip takes around 2.4 hours.

Pro Tip: A Zoobus from central Melbourne is a dearer but quicker option.

4. Sovereign Hill, Ballarat 

Ballarat is a charming regional city with a heritage streetscape. One of my favorite experiences is the Art Gallery of Ballarat near the station.

Sovereign Hill is a historic park recreating the history of the 1850s goldfields. Over 200 volunteers dressed in historical costumes and Cobb and Co. carriages roll down the main street. Go gold panning in the creek — enough flecks of gold put in daily to keep the activity interesting. See $150,000 worth of molten gold poured into a gleaming bar. Tour an underground mine and visit the shops, hotels, and a theater on Main Street — all based on original Ballarat businesses. A favorite for most is the old-fashioned candy store.

From Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, hop on the V Line train. The journey to Ballarat takes 90 minutes. Catch the bus on route 9 to Sovereign Hill. Route 16 takes you to the famous Botanic Gardens, Lake Wendouree , and the Tramways Museum.

Pro Tip: Check out these itineraries .

Bendigo is also a historic gold rush town. Today, gold comes from the tourists who flock here by train. Bendigo Art Gallery’s blockbuster exhibitions are a huge drawcard. They explore the history of fashion, design, and influential style icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Balenciaga, and Mary Quant. The present exhibition is Elvis Presley: Direct from Graceland , with vintage memorabilia and treasured items from his Graceland home, including his wedding tuxedo and Priscilla’s bridal gown. Priscilla Presley visited Bendigo to launch the exhibition. 

Walk Bendigo’s fine Victorian heritage streetscape. Ride a vintage tram or meet Sun Loong, the world’s longest imperial dragon. Rejoice in the local produce and wines. Bendigo was deemed a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2019.

Pro Tip: See TravelAwaits’ Reasons This Australian City Is A Must-Stop For Foodies .

6. Geelong 

Geelong is Victoria’s second-largest city, known for its waterfront, including public artworks, landscaped gardens, and restaurants. It is a UNESCO City of Design , with great buildings, galleries, and boundless creativity. 

From 2023, Geelong will be the new home of the Spirit of Tasmania (the passenger/car ferry to Tasmania).

Geelong is the gateway to the famous Great Ocean Road. For more great things to do in Geelong, visit TravelAwaits’ Geelong, the Gateway to Australia’s Great Ocean Road .  

Trains run between Southern Cross Station Melbourne and Geelong every 10 minutes during peak hours and regularly throughout the day.

Pro Tip: Take the new ferry service from Docklands Melbourne to Geelong’s waterfront for a leisurely outing. See Port Phillip Ferries . 

7. Wineries Mornington Peninsula And Yarra Valley 

Many travelers keep wine bucket lists. The Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley are often on those lists. As the wineries are spread out, it would be complicated to reach them by public transport.

A new service, Hop It , is a good option. The small bus leaves from central Melbourne. You travel independently from the other people on board, deciding when to hop on and off.

The stops aren’t just wineries but breweries and distilleries with a smattering of tourist venues to explore the area. I’ve been to most selected places, so realize there are some gems. Pt Leo Estate offers wine tasting and a sculpture trail with ocean views. Red Gum BBQ serves beer flights and fires up some of the best American barbecue in Australia. The owner trained at Southern Soul BBQ in St Simons Island, South Georgia . TarraWarra Estate is a significant modern art gallery as well as a winery. Domaine Chandon’s was founded by Champagne house Moët and Chandon. A great place to sip sparkling, looking out at rows of vines with dramatic arched windows framing the view. 

A Hop It day costs between $45 and $55.

8. Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

This begins our bonus section of destinations further afield. Visiting the Grampians National Park is not a day trip. Even getting here by car takes over 3 hours. The area is heritage-listed for its Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty, including impressive cliffs, deep gorges, fantastic weathered rock, wildflowers, and wildlife. Enjoy world-famous hiking trails, waterfalls, and craggy mountain panoramas. Find more on the Grampians region here .

Buses arrive in the village of Halls Gap, where there is a range of accommodation from budget to luxury. Several trails can be accessed directly from Halls Gap. Venus Baths Loop is 1.5 miles and wheelchair accessible. Chautauqua Peak Loop passes through forest to the foot of Clematis Falls . Climb to the summit for stunning views over a 2.5-hour hike, or there are shorter options to the base of the falls of an hour return. 

The township is heavily based on tourism, so there are shuttles to other trailheads. It’s easy to access historic town walks and local wine tours .

Catch a train from Spencer Street Station to Ararat with coach connections to Halls Gap. Even the most direct service takes 3 hours and 23 minutes. Plan your journey here . Transport one way is $28.

Pro Tip: A private bus service Grampians Direct does the journey for a similar price with pickups in Melbourne and returns.

9. Warrnambool 

Warrnambool is a charming coastal city with fabulous beaches. There’s lots of great street art, a thriving food scene, and seafaring history at Flagstaff Hill . The attractions are spread out, but it’s possible to explore this vibrant coastal city by public bus. You can reach Cheese World in Allansford, Proudfoots Boathouse on the Hopkins River, the Breakwater , and Thunder Point for crashing ocean views.

Between June and September, female southern right whales come to the waters of Warrnambool’s Logans Beach to calve. The whales often swim within 300 feet offshore. There is a viewing platform at Logan’s Beach .

Buses also go to local villages such as Koroit , Australia’s most complete example of an early Irish settlement. Further along the same route, Tower Hill is an extinct volcano where you can stroll amongst emus, koalas, and kangaroos. Port Fairy is a charming fishing village and home to one of Australia’s best-loved folk festivals .

Trains to Warrnambool depart Melbourn four times a day and from Geelong. The journey takes 3 hours and 26 minutes.

Pro Tip: It’s possible to reach Warrnambool by the Great Ocean Road over one day or many. See TravelAwaits’ How To Enjoy Australia’s Great Ocean Road Using Only Local Transport. 

Hotels Close To Melbourne Stations

Melbourne’s City Loop is a mostly-underground subway connecting our two busiest stations, Flinders Street and Southern Cross. The stations you need to know about for organizing day trips.

The airport shuttle bus ( Skybus ) and Vline regional public transport (trains and buses) depart from Southern Cross Station.

Near Southern Cross, I’d recommend staying at Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Little Collins , a 2-minute walk away. Ask for a room with a view of the Beyonce-inspired tower (official name: The Premier Tower) for an interesting curvaceous sight to wake up to.

Near Flinders Street Station is Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne, a boutique heritage hotel. While moderately priced, it feels like staying in an exclusive club. There are views over the Yarra River. This hotel is a short walk to the Arts Precinct and the floating restaurants and alfresco dining lining the Yarra. See TravelAwaits’ 9 Unique Melbourne Experiences That Locals Love . 

Voco Melbourne Central is a new hotel with sweeping city skyline views. Love shopping? This is close to the Emporium and Bourke Street Mall and a 3-minute walk from Melbourne Central Station (one of three underground stations on the City Loop). The station is inside Melbourne Central Shopping Centre , home to 300 retailers. This state-of-the-art hotel has cutting-edge design and a lighting system that responds to the natural cycle of light. Openable windows are available in each of the 252 rooms!

For more on Melbourne , check out these articles:

• 9 Unique Melbourne Experiences That Locals Love
• Exploring Melbourne’s Famous Street Art
• Melbourne, Australia: The Best Things To See And Do
• 8 Best Hotels in Melbourne, Australia

Nadine Cresswell-Myatt of Red Bag Will Travel took her first plane trip at age eight. This would not be so unusual except she was flying solo and had never seen a plane before: what were her parents thinking? This adventure set her course for life. For over 25 years, she has crafted stories about her travel adventures for newspapers, magazines, and online travel sites, as well as training others how to do the same. You can follow her international travel on Instagram or read about her Australian jaunts at WeekendNotes . Yes, she’s an Aussie, but with children and grandchildren around the globe and her ability to travel with only a red carry-on bag, you might just find her popping up anywhere. And she still travels solo.

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Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove, Red Hill South, Victoria © Robyn Lea, Brand Victoria

6 great day trips from Melbourne

World-class wineries, grand ocean road trips, mineral-rich hot springs – discover them all easily within a day’s drive of Melbourne.

  By Ute Junker

Few cities are as perfectly positioned for day tripping as Melbourne. Just an hour or two out of town, you can find yourself walking through ancient rainforests, watching wild penguins and koalas, or admiring world-class art. Throw in pretty seaside towns, a 100-year-old steam train and some of the best restaurants in the country, and you have plenty of reasons to get out of town.

Soak up the delights of Daylesford

Lake House, Daylesford, Victoria © Andrew Vukosav, Visit Victoria

Where: a 90-minute drive north-west of Melbourne.

With a scenic Central Highland setting and a healthy dose of style,  Daylesford  makes for an easy day out. Spend the morning browsing the enticing shops and galleries. Highlights include the sprawling Paradise Bookshop, the atmospheric  Convent Gallery  and artist David Bromley’s spectacular studio and gallery, Bromley and Co . Follow that with an indulgent lunch at  Lake House , one of Australia’s best regional restaurants. Another good choice is  Frank and Connie's Kitchen  down the road in Hepburn Springs where you will also find the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa . Finish the day with a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters, and perhaps a massage, before heading back to Melbourne.

Get a taste of the Great Ocean Road

Lorne, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Rob Blackburn, Visit Victoria

Unmissable experience

In the heart of the Otways is a spectacular forest of Californian Redwoods . Stroll through towering trees, visit nearby waterfalls and enjoy a picnic before continuing your journey.

Where: The Great Ocean Road begins 90 minutes south-west of the city, in Torquay.

The  Great Ocean Road  is best explored over a couple of days; however, if you only have a day, you can still take in the highlights of the eastern end of the route. Start your journey from Torquay, one of Australia’s best-known surf towns and home to both the Rip Curl and Quiksilver surfwear labels. A further 45 minutes down the road,  Lorne  is another charming seaside town, known for its lively arts scene (don’t miss  Qdos Arts ) and its one-kilometre (0.6-mile) long beach. You might like to grab some lunch here before continuing on to the Great Ocean Road's most famous sight the  12 Apostles . Nearby, the striking Loch Ard Gorge is also worth visiting before you head back to Melbourne.

Savour the Yarra Valley's wine and wildlife

Domaine Chandon Winery, Yarra Valley, Victoria © Adrian Brown, Tourism Australia

Where: about an hour drive north-east of the city.

Wineries aren’t the only attraction in the  Yarra Valley . Your first stop,  Coombe , is a historic house with heritage gardens that belonged to Australia’s first international opera star, Dame Nellie Melba. From here, it’s a quick drive to  Domaine Chandon , one of Australia’s premier producers of sparkling wine. After sampling the bubbles, head on to  Healesville Sanctuary  to encounter kangaroos, koalas, wombats, dingoes, lyrebirds, platypus and Tasmanian devils. Ready for some more wine tasting?  Innocent Bystander  and  TarraWarra Estate  are both recommended, and each has an excellent restaurant. Stop in at the  TarraWarra Museum of Art , which has a fabulous collection of acclaimed Australian artists such as Brett Whiteley, before heading back to Melbourne.

Green up in the Dandenongs

National Rhododendron Gardens, Olinda, Victoria © Parks Victoria

Where: a one-hour drive east of Melbourne.

The  Dandenongs’  tall forests and glorious gardens are a perfect escape from the city. Start your adventures at  National Rhododendron Gardens . Its 42 hectares (104 acres) are filled with azaleas, camellias and cherries as well as rhododendrons. From here, it’s a short drive to Kallista, where Grants Picnic Ground is the start of a beautiful 6.6-kilometre (four-mile) circular walk in Sherbrooke Forest through fern-filled gullies where kookaburras and cockatoos make their homes. Continue on to another of the area’s charming villages, Belgrave, to take a trip into the past on a 100-year-old steam train known as  Puffing Billy . Book in for an on-board lunch and enjoy the return journey through the area’s towering forests before making your way back to Melbourne. 

Discover the natural beauty of Phillip Island

Forest Caves Beach, Phillip Island, Victoria © David Hannah, Visit Victoria

Where: about a two-hour drive south of the city.

Aim to reach the fishing village of San Remo before midday to watch the daily feeding of the pelicans and stingrays. From here, a bridge takes you to  Phillip Island . Take a walk around rugged Cape Woolamai with its striking pink granite cliffs and golden sweep of sand. Next stop for motor sport fans will be the  Grand Prix Circuit  that hosts the Motorcycle Grand Prix each October; take a guided tour or do laps with a professional driver. After lunch take an  eco-cruise  to admire one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. Finish the day at the  Penguin Parade , when hundreds of little penguins come ashore at Summerland Beach after a day swimming at sea. The island is also home to a koala reserve where you can walk along an elevated boardwalk to see koalas close up in their natural habitat.

Where to meet Australia's cutest animals

Go coastal on the Mornington Peninsula

Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove, Red Hill South, Victoria © Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove

Where: about an hour south of the city.

Its pretty seaside villages, superb wineries and restaurants make the  Mornington Peninsula  a wonderful year-round destination. Take the inland route to reach the  McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery  at Langwarrin which showcases more than 100 works by well-known Australian artists. From here, start exploring the area’s celebrated wineries known for pinot noir and cool-climate chardonnay. Many of the best wineries, such as  Montalto  and  Ten Minutes by Tractor , also have acclaimed restaurants that are a great choice for lunch. After lunch, head to Peninsula Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in their thermal mineral baths before exploring historic seaside towns such as Portsea and Sorrento, which both feature well-preserved heritage buildings and beautiful beaches with great snorkelling. From Sorrento, enjoy the car ferry trip to the equally inviting town of Queenscliff, before heading back to Melbourne.

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7 of The Most Popular Melbourne Day Trips

Which are the best Melbourne Day Trips? Where are the best places to go on a day tour? These questions come up a lot in our FB group and are something we struggled with when putting our itineraries together. I love all of these day trips; they all offer something unique: the best fit for your holiday depends on your interests, but don’t worry, we have covered all bases.

Ballarat – Learn about the Gold rushes

The great ocean road, puffing billy, emerald and the dandenong ranges, phillip island and the fairy penguins, yarra valley, mornington peninsula, werribee zoo, the grampians.

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Victoria may be our smallest mainland state, but she offers a great variety of attractions only a couple of hours from the centre of the city. Today we have highlighted a few of the most popular Melbourne day trips to help you decide if they would make a good addition to your next visit. You can use public transport for a couple of these trips or better yet rent a car and explore at your own pace. Are you travelling on a budget? There are plenty of excellent tour operators and some wonderful backpacker/small group tours available at affordable prices.

Looking for a longer trip? Check out these 14 one day drives from Melbourne .

Whether you want to book a tour, take the train, or have a car, you can easily visit all these regions.

The most popular places to visit on day trips from Melbourne

There are some great tours around – my advice, choose the smaller eco-certified operators for a better experience. Better still, hire a car and do it yourself; these are all pretty straightforward drives. Some can even be reached using public transport. Where this is possible, I have included details.

• Sovereign Hill Ballarat – the best day tour for history lovers
• The Great Ocean Road – best drive for coastal views
• Phillip Island Penguin Experience – best fun for families
• Puffing Billy and the Dandenong Ranges – great for kids and trainspotters
• The Grampians – waterfalls and walks.
• The Yarra Valley – the best choice for food and wine lovers
• Mornington Peninsula – best for beach or wine lovers

Heaven for history lovers

Gold was discovered in Victoria in the 1850s, and soon after, people rushed from around the world to make their fortune. As evidenced by the grand hotels and homes, some did, but many went home more impoverished than before.

Many Chinese miners were included in the influx, and the area now houses a couple of beautiful old Chinese Joss Houses. The main attraction here, though, is Sovereign Hill . I have visited twice in the last few years and enjoyed it. It’s about an hour and a half by car, or you can take a train and shuttle bus. Once there, you can experience what it was like to live in the 1850s, visit the reconstructed campsites and try a little gold panning.

What you find you can keep when fossicking at Sovereign Hill – Sadly all I found was dust 😉

Once you have struck it lucky, wander down the old main street and visit some of the shops and village business who will be more than happy to take your money. We loved the blacksmith and the schoolhouse. Sovereign Hill is the best living history museum in Victoria. Along with the daytime activities, they also offer two evening experiences, a tour by lamplight and a show called Aura that tells the story of Australia’s most famous rebellion. These make an overnight stay very appealing. You can explore Ballarat in a day or stay overnight. Try one of the grand old pubs in the area. We stayed at Craigs Royal Hotel, and it was an outstanding experience. Onsite accommodation is also offered at Sovereign Hill.

Getting there : Ballarat is 115km west of Melbourne, and the trip takes about 90 minutes by car or train. Take the V-line from Southern Cross Station. Bus number 21 will get you to Sovereign Hill in about 10 minutes. They also offer a shuttle bus in the mornings and afternoons.

Prefer someone else drives? This 9-hour tour includes a visit to Sovereign Hill, the Eureka Stockade and the rest of Ballarat.

It’s the most popular day trip for a reason.

The Twelve Apostles – well, the eight apostles really, even when they were named there was not a complete dozen, are the most popular day trip from Melbourne.

The Great Ocean Road is breathtakingly beautiful – I was worried that the real sight would not live up to all the beautiful postcard images of rocks bathed in sunlight or beautiful ocean sunsets.

Recommended Tour : If you don’t have a car or are not comfortable driving on the left, then I recommend you a day choose a small coach company. We can recommend this one which does the itinerary in reverse helping you avoid much of the traffic. I had a fantastic day out with them.

Getting there : You will need a car or a tour to visit as public transport just won’t work out.

If you have the time consider a two-day stay and spend the night in Port Campbell.

A must for train enthusiasts and families

The Puffing Billy Steam train runs through the Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave to Gembrook . It is over 100 years old, and very enthusiastic volunteers maintain the railway, carriages, engines and station.

Emerald is an easy day trip from Melbourne that can be done by public transport or as part of a long day out if you have access to a car. It’s a fun journey for families but a lovely day out for couples too. As the steam pours from the front engine and the whistle blows, it’s easy to feel like you have been taken back in time to another era. Once you board the train, aim to get a seat on the right-hand side as it has the best views. You are allowed to dangle your legs from the train, which has no glass in the windows, which is fun but does mean it can get cold in winter. You can choose to stop at Emerald if you are short of time, or Lakeside, where the is a lake and picnic area or continue the entire journey to Glenbrook, where there is a pub and some shops.

Getting there : The drive from Melbourne takes about an hour, depending on traffic. There is a train service from Flinders Street to Belgrave.

A few tour operators run trips that include Puffing Billy if you don’t have a car

• Puffing Billy Heritage Steam Train & Dandenong Ranges – This tour includes a Devonshire Tea, a train ride, Sherbrooke Forest and the village of Sassafras
• Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Bus Tour – this option combines Puffing Billy with time at Healesville Sanctuary and a tasting at Yarra Valley Chocolates

Should you go and see the little penguins?

The Philip Island Penguin tour is one of Melbourne’s best known day/afternoon tours, but I don’t think it’s for everyone. I have been twice, once with young kids and once without. If you are travelling with children, it’s a fun family day trip; however, if you are not a huge animal lover or have seen penguins before, it’s a long way to go to watch them run up the beach. Don’t get me wrong, they are amazing, and the area is beautiful, but if you have limited time, I think there are better choices.

If you want to see the cute little creatures, there are quite a few other sites nearby that can be combined with a visit to the penguins to make it a full day out. Check the official Phillip Island Tourism page to explore more about the area.

Getting there : The journey by car takes just under 2 hours. The trip can be made by public transport, but it requires quite a substantial amount of mucking about and is only really recommended for the serious budget traveller.

Check out this tour these recommended tours to Phillip Island if you don’t have a car:

• Healesville Sanctuary & Phillip Island Wildlife Park Bus Tour – You will spend time at Healesville Sanctuary, visit Nobbies Lookout & Boardwalk and enjoy the Phillip Island Penguin Parade on this 12 hour day tour.
• French Island and Phillip Island Wildlife Tour – An 11 hour day tour of French and Phillip Island will give you the chance to spot koalas in their natural habitat, see Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony at The Nobbies and finish up with the Penguin Parade.

Calling all food and wine lovers

Only an hour northeast of Melbourne lay 300 vineyards and 70 plus cellar doors with dozens of great restaurants thrown in. The Yarra Valley is the most popular weekend getaway for locals from Melbourne; a trip to the Yarra Valley offers a lot more than pinot noir and sparkling wines. However, these alone are excellent reasons to visit.

Yarra Valley Dairy  is a must-do stop for cheese lovers. Their marinated fetta and goats cheeses are amazing! As for wineries, I think Yering Station , one of the oldest vineyards, is a worthy stop.

Non-foodie stops to consider include; TarraWarra Museum of Art and the wonderful Healesville Sanctuary to meet native Australian wildlife and the beautiful Emerald Lake. The Yarra is also a popular place to go hot air ballooning. Stop in at the visitors centre for more ideas on local attractions.

If you don’t have a car or would prefer someone else does the driving, check out these highly-rated tours.

• This Yarra Valley day tour visits two wineries, a cider house and a chocolatier and includes a delicious lunch.
• Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges Scenic Day Tour With Lunch – This tour allows you to visit some of the most beautiful parts of the valley and Dandenongs including Emerald Lake and includes a winery lunch and tasting.

Getting there : You can reach Lilydale and the Visitor’s centre in just under an hour by car. You can also take the train from Melbourne Central to Lilydale.

Stunning beaches, boardwalks and wine

The Mornington Peninsula is both a playground for suburban Melbournites and home to a pretty large population in its own right. The popular beachside towns of Portsea, Rosebud, Rye and Sorrento are perfect for a day trip out of the city.

Other worthy attractions are:

• Point Nepean National Park
• Arthurs Seat Eagle  
• Peninsula Hot Springs
• Two Bays coastal walk 
• McClelland Sculpture Park

Winery’s only appeared on the peninsula in the 1980s, but they have already made a name for themselves. Paringa Estate , Point Leo Estate and Polperro Winery are both worth dropping by.

Getting there : You can drive to the Mornington Peninsular in just 60 minutes from the centre of Melbourne. If using public transport, take the train from Southern Cross Station to Frankston; from here, jump on the 788 bus for beaches further along the coast. It’s not too arduous.

Tours we recommend for exploring the Mornington Peninsula on a tour if you fancy sampling the region’s wines. These are two we recommend

• Mornington Peninsula Food & Wine Taste Trail – A good mix of food, art and scenery on this tour, including Point Leo Estate and Arthurs Seat.
• Mornington Peninsula Winery Tour with Lunch – If you prefer to stick to wine tasting this one will give you 4 wineries and a lovely lunch.
• Day Tour To Peninsula Hot Springs, Murray’s Lookout and Beach Boxes – If the hot springs caught your eye then this tour is a great choice with 2-3 hours spent at the springs.

An open range zoo with an African theme Werribee is as close as you can get to being on Safari without leaving the country.

There is also an Australian trail giving international visitors a chance to meet Kangaroos, emus, brolgas and koalas.

Buy Tickets to Werribee Zoo

Getting to Werribee : You can drive to the zoo in about 40 minutes from the centre of Melbourne. If using public transport, take the train from Flinders Street and then join the 439 bus.

Walks, waterfalls and indigenous culture

Head 2 hours south-west of Melbourne to the Grampians, where you will find a fantastic landscape with several highlights, including Boorka Lookout, Mackenzie Falls, and indigenous rock art.

The area is famous for hiking and climbing, and many local tour operators can provide activities like these.

Getting to Werribee : It’s a 2-3 hour trip from central Melbourne to the region. Public transport is possible, but you would probably want to be staying overnight to make it worthwhile.

Check out more of our articles to the you explore and enjoy Melbourne

• Where to Stay in Melbourne
• A Sports Lovers Guide to Exploring Melbourne
• Two Days on the Great Ocean Road
• Explore Melbourne on Foot

See the full range of Melbourne day tours

Got questions: Head over to our Australia Your Way Facebook Group and we will do our best to help!

First published March 2020, fully updated March 2023

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The best day trips from Melbourne

Need a break from city life? These nine day trips offer beaches, mineral springs, wineries, wildlife and more

If you're looking for a break from the inner-city grid, there's no better cure than a day trip from Melbourne. The state of Victoria is full of friendly neighbourhood towns, whether you're in the mood for  a winery tour , a road trip or a national park to explore. These one-day escapes are just what the doctor ordered, so get out there and explore Melbourne's beautiful backyard. 

Keen to stretch your legs? These are the best day hikes from Melbourne. Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are five road trip-worthy motels.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Melbourne

1.  daylesford.

There’s a reason that Daylesford is known as a haven of relaxation. Eighty per cent of the country's mineral springs are in this region, which makes it perfect for spa treatments and for growing high-quality produce, which you can enjoy at one of Daylesford's top restaurants. The region is extremely popular with weekenders from Melbourne, and once you visit you'll soon realise why many of them decide to make the tree change. 

If you have the cash to splash and you want the best of the best, there is one restaurant you must visit:   Lake House , perched on the titular body of water. The multi-course menu changes all the time, depending on what is in season and what nearby Dairy Flat Farm, owned by the Wolf-Taskers and part of the Lake House mini-empire, is growing at the time. Everything is fresh and treated with the utmost respect, with a vegetable-forward menu that heroes local produce but is the opposite of ascetic.

For a breakfast of champions,  Cliffy's Em porium   is very popular with locals, and for good reason. The small café does all the breakfast favourites, often with a vegan twist. Cliffy Hauser's original 1950s general store is now a providore, offering local produce, smallgoods, the region's justly famous mineral water, preserves and specialty groceries.

Thirsty? Make sure you stop into   Daylesford Cider , which makes traditional and not-so-traditional cider onsite from the onsite heritage apples. Owners Mackie and Clare are serious about cider, and they make numerous drops in both sparkling and still varieties. Many are traditional English ciders made using traditional methods, but there are also a few that are just for fun. Paddles are the most popular way to taste all the ciders on offer at the venue, which is also dog-friendly.

We can’t (and won’t) stop raving about   Radio Springs Hotel . Don't resist the pull of sipping whisky in the bric-a-brac-filled dining room, and if you’re here on a Thursday, the kitchen takes a break from serving impressive pub fare and invites a Thai chef to create a feast.

You’re here to relax, so begin your getaway by visiting arguably the most famous spa in the region,  Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa .

Similarly, t he best time to take in art is when you’ve got the mental space – so head to  the Convent Gallery  and spend time with work from all manner of historical periods and styles. 

Luxury can be found at  Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat ; a grand ’30s guesthouse transformed into a mineral spa and hotel. You could also stay here and not leave for days: there are open-air mineral pools, fine dining at the Argus Dining Room and huge, elegant rooms.

If you only do one thing...   For a simple slice of tranquillity, pick up some picnic goods at the gourmet food shops on the main street and head to the pristine  Lake Daylesford . You can take a walk around the lake or make a meal of your picnic on a bench. Keep an eye out for birdlife. 

2.  Phillip Island

Known for its colony of Little Penguins, Phillip Island is an island packed with coastal wildlife experiences, cultural events and a growing food and wine scene.

There are plenty of good food options on the island, and we'd highly recommend stopping in at  Wild Food Farm and Café  in Rhyll for breakfast or lunch. The property is a labour of love by Jude Mayall, whom you may know as the founder of bushfood company OutbackChef (and author of a cookbook of the same name). The farm grows native bush tucker like wattleseed and lemon myrtle, which is then used in the café as well as being packaged and sold online, in the gift shop and wholesale to chefs, distillers and brewers all over Australia. Fresh, native ingredients make the food here sing, and you can have a wander through hectares of native bushland and carefully cultivated bush tucker plants before or after your meal. 

At the   Westernport Hotel , we’d suggest grabbing a drink (preferably a locally brewed Furphy) and enjoying it as you catch views across to the island.

It’s always busy, but nothing beats the   Penguin Parade .   Every day at sunset, hundreds of little penguins waddle in from the sea on Summerland Beach.

If you're looking for a relaxing and bucolic place to stay,  Five Acres  farm stay could be just the place to unwind. Spanning the titular area, the farm has views across fields to the sea and friendly chickens, goats, sheep and two highland cattle, Rory and Ivy. The guesthouse is fully equipped with everything you need, including breakfast provisions procured from the farm's resident chickens. 

If you do one thing... t he 5km return  Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach walk  is well worth your time. The clifftop walk offers pretty spectacular views, and the path is wide, mostly flat and easy to navigate. There are a few steps and undulating terrain, but for the most part, it's easy on the calves. The Berrys Beach end of the walk is along a paved road, but most of it traverses grassland. Keep an eye out for wallabies and the ubiquitous Cape Barren geese.

3.  Castlemaine

The coast gets all the glory, with its shining vistas and its glittering seascapes. But central Victoria should be your next weekend away destination, particularly the arty hub of Castlemaine. In recent years, Castlemaine and its surrounding towns have developed a reputation for being home to artists, musicians, writers and creatives. Castlemaine punches way above its weight when it comes to cultural festivals and activities – not to mention restaurants that are well worth the drive north. 

In what used to be the ice-creamery of the Theatre Royal, you'll find  Bistro Lola , a snug, two-tier restaurant with clusters of small tables and booths. With its low-lit charm and simple posies of flowers, it’s perfect date material. Indeed, Bistro Lola goes above and beyond quick bites before the movie or concert starts next door – this menu’s designed by head chef Sarah Curwen-Walker for destination dining. You might try an entrée of orange and coriander seed-cured Spanish mackerel, cucumber, currants and almonds, with green chilli oil; or a main such as Yapunyah chicken involtini with haricot beans, sage, porcini and speck.

Looking for a chill, feel-good place to enjoy a beer? One of the three owners of  the Taproom  is Doug Falconer of Hunters and Collectors, so there’s plenty of music booked on Sundays and most Fridays (not to mention Falconer hosts the karaoke, comedy and trivia nights), and there’s no door charge. 

Head to  the Mill , an  1875 woollen mill given a new lease of life when it was taken over in 2014 by a biodynamic sheepfarmer and a GP and transformed into a giant hub for food and artisan manufacturing. The biggest drawcard is the giant   Vintage Bazaar , open seven days a week and packed full with groovy clothes and homewares. They’ve thought of everything: as you browse the furniture makers and artist spaces, kids can be kept amused by the ping-pong and fussball tables, not to mention the Ice Cream Social’s hole-in-the-wall good times. The Mill is also home to the cellar door of the   Boomtown Winemakers Co-op , traditional Viennese coffeehouse   Das Kaffeehaus , and   the Taproom , a haven of craft beer. Make sure you stop by   Cabosse & Feve Chocolates  on your visit to stock up on artisan chocolates that are as pretty as they are tasty.

Those who do not stay at  the Empyre Hotel  stand outside and take photos. The Empyre was built in the late 1800s and is an exemplar of gold-rush architecture with its lace balconies and stained-glass windows. This boutique hotel offers a full breakfast and has its own luxurious bar. There are its gardens to explore, but it’s also mere metres away from Castlemaine’s loveliest sights, such as the Theatre Royal of the same era. There’s off-street parking, too. It's luxe, but you have to treat yourself now and again, no?

If you only do one thing...  Do you know how to have a gouda time? Sorry, sorry, no cheese puns here – the people at  the Cheese School in Castlemaine  take the dairy arts very seriously, as well they should. Not one but two experienced French cheesemakers, Ivan and Julie Larcher, have upped sticks from the French countryside to Castlemaine to open Australia's first ' university of cheese '. The school aims to teach cheesemakers and mongers traditional French techniques to create and sell the most delectable artisan cheeses in the Australian market. Although primarily aimed at industry professionals, the school also offers classes for laypeople to better appreciate cheeses (yes, there are tasting classes), as well as half-day or two-day intensive courses in home cheesemaking. 

4.  Mornington Peninsula

With beaches, wineries, parks, gardens and spas, Mornington Peninsula boasts an embarrassment of getaway riches. These diverse attractions are best discovered by car, and it’s an easy 90-minute drive south of the CBD. Not to mention the views overlooking Port Phillip Bay are nothing short of amazing.

You’ll find excellent examples of barbecue, banana pudding and good ol’ southern hospitality at Red Gum BBQ , a stellar barbecue restaurant inside a former machinery shed on Arthurs Seat Road. If you’re after something a little more luxe, Laura is the fine diner of the Mornington Peninsula to try, located at Pt Leo Estate.

A produce-led, fantastic restaurant, a fascinating sculpture garden and delightful wines crafted with care – Mornington Peninsula wineries don't get much better than Montalto . If you’re more of a cocktail fan, head to Flaggerdoot , the fancy design-driven cocktail bar at Jackalope Hotel .

It’s often packed with visitors, but the Peninsula Hot Springs   is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the mood for a soak. There are also   dolphin and seal swims , which  take you out into Port Phillip Bay, and a wonderful hedge maze in which to lose yourself at   Enchanted Adventure Garden .

It is not an exaggeration to say the Jackalope Hotel has changed the Mornington Peninsula. The cutting-edge, ultra-luxe hotel is what you might expect to find in New York's uber-hip Meatpacking District, not set among rolling hills and gently swaying vines.

If you don’t want to shell out $650 a night, try the Lindenderry at Red Hill . It sits on almost 14 hectares of vineyards and gardens and inside it feels like one big, glam country house with all of the elegance but none of the kitsch.

If you do one thing...   go for a walk down the   Bushrangers Bay Trail   at Cape Schanck. This coastal clifftop walk boasts picturesque vistas over Bass Strait.

5.  Yarra Valley

It’s kind of hard to believe that the Yarra Valley is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD. One minute you’re in the CBD, then next it's suburbia, and all of a sudden you’re surrounded by rolling hills covered in vines and paddocks with cows aplenty. The region’s world-renowned producers of cool-climate wines have helped put the Yarra Valley on the map. So pick your designated driver and get rolling.  

Giant Steps   do excellent charcuterie and cheese platters that you can match with fresh drops from the vineyard. Or hop across the street to   Innocent Bystander   for delicious wood-fired pizzas and moderately priced   moscato.

Visit   TarraWarra Estate ’s cellar door where, for $20 a person, guests can sample wines with winemaker Adam McCallum. Try the Single Block and Reserve ranges – the best chardonnay and pinot noir produced on the estate. There’s also   Yering Station , one of Yarra Valley’s oldest wineries, which is a favourite with visitors to the region.

If you think the Yarra Valley resembles a pastoral wonderland from the ground, imagine how it looks from up in a hot air balloon.   Global Ballooning Australia   runs a   one-hour sunrise tour over the Yarra Valley   for those looking to see the bucolic landscape from a bird’s eye perspective. Finish off with a visit to   the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery   for chocolate balls, blocks and many scoops of ice cream.

Glamping in a winery? Why the hell not. The historic   Balgownie Estate   has glamping accommodation just steps from the cellar door. Here you’ll have all the fixings of home – including a queen-size bed, split-system air con and a mini bar.

If you do one thing...  get some cheese from   Yarra Valley Dairy . These handmade farmhouse cheeses pair all too well with the local drops. 

6.  Great Ocean Road

It’s a Victorian icon for a reason – this windy stretch of road snakes all along the south-west coast of the state, starting at Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. It’s about a four-hour drive without stops, but heed our warning: you’ll definitely want to stop. There’s just too much happening along the coast not to, especially for those who like nature and native Australian animals. 

It’s the beach, so fish and chips are a must. Get yours from   Salty Dog Fish and Chippery  in Lorne and remember to ask for lots of chicken salt. They even do a deep-fried Mars bar, if you’re game.

The   Aireys Pub  is where it’s at. This much-loved watering hole regularly hosts live music sets, and it’s a great place to kick back with a bevvy post-swim. The pub serves up a great parma as well.

The Great Ocean Road runs right past the cool, temperate rainforest of the  Great Otway National Park , meaning you’re close to some of the country’s best native flora and fauna. Get close to animals in their natural habitat – the   Koalas in the Wild Tour   is great for spotting out eucalyptus-loving friends.  If you can bear getting up early, watching the sunrise at the   Twelve Apostles   is well worth the effort.

If you want to stay the night, head deep into the Otways towards the   Great Ocean Ecolodge and Conservation Ecology Centre . This entirely solar-powered centre boasts comfortable country style-rooms and access to local wildlife – your next-door neighbours could be kangaroos, wallabies and (if you’re very lucky) adorable tiger quolls.

If you do one thing…    try surfing ! There are plenty of places along the coast to do it; we’d suggest Anglesea if you like your waves friendly but not frisky.

7.  Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula has stood in the shadow of its eastern cousin for too long. Travellers are starting to realise that the rugged coastal region has just as much to offer as the Mornington, and it’s considerably less expensive. Whether you’re looking for wineries, beaches, luxury accommodation or great food, the Bellarine is ready to assist. 

W e’d suggest a meal at Merne , which has carved out its own chunk in the region’s epicurean scene. For something more casual, try the Queenscliff Brewhouse which, yes, is a brewery, but it’s also a pub, bistro, tasting room, whisky bar and hotel.

Take your pick from some of the peninsula’s best wineries including Jack Rabbit Vineyard , Curlewis Winery , Basils Farm and Scotchmans Hill . Switch up your winery visits with a trip to the Whiskery , a whisky and gin distillery. 

Animal lovers will love a visit to Jirrahlinga , a sanctuary for Australian native wildlife like kangaroos, echidnas, reptiles, dingoes and more. In the summertime, when the weather is fine, be sure to stop over at Adventure Park for some exhilarating water slide fun. If all else fails, you won’t be disappointed with a swim or surf at Ocean Grove beach. 

If you want to stay the night, you can go all out at the French chateau-looking Campbell Point House or whisk away your troubles at the seaside Lon Retreat . For a more boutique stay, try the Nest Point Lonsdale .

If you do one thing… cycle the coast. The relatively flat terrain of the Bellarine makes it ideal for a little two-wheeled tourism. The main track cyclists will want to try out is the Bellarine Rail trail – a 35-kilometre track that follows the old railway line and winds past many of the region’s attractions. You can even take your bike over on Port Phillip Ferries which travels daily between Melbourne and Portarlington on a schmick two-floor catamaran.

8.  Ballarat

If Sovereign Hill is all you know about Ballarat, it’s time for another visit to this historic gold rush town. From art galleries to winning dining destinations, this historic regional town is bursting with fun activities, especially during the colder months. The best part? VLine trains from Ballarat to Melbourne roughly run on the hour, and it takes less time than driving (about an hour and 20 minutes).   

You’ll need to keep your energy up during your Ballarat adventure, so we suggest hitting up   L’espresso   for a strong coffee and a hearty breakfast. If you need a pick me up, head to   Vegas and Rose   for cakes and macaroons.

Try   Hop Temple , a cosy food hall that serves a vast array of craft beers, ciders and wines, as well as OTT burgers, gluten-free salads and pizzas for one.  

Grab a coffee and walk down Sturt Street to the   Art Gallery of Ballarat . One of the oldest and biggest regional art galleries, the space boasts a huge collection of Australian art as well as running exhibitions throughout the year. A stand out is the   Ballarat International Foto Biennale , a month-long exhibition that features workshops, screenings, portfolio reviews, discussions and social events.

If you’re thinking of staying overnight, you can’t go past   the Provincial Ballarat . This 1909 building is heritage listed but was renovated in 2015, so it’s a happy mix of cosy old-world charm and stylish modern fixings.

If you do one thing...   you can't pass up a visit to   Sovereign Hill . This outdoor museum recreates what Ballarat was like ten years after the discovery of gold in 1851. Pan for gold nuggets, dress up in old-school garb and definitely take home some raspberry drops – they're really good.  

9.  High Country

There is so much more to do in the Victorian High Country than ski and snowboard (though of course, the region is justly famous for its snowfields), and it's a perfect destination for a week or long weekend any time of year. Roughly three hours drive from Melbourne, the High Country region has award-winning craft beer, wine, spirits and produce, a rich history to explore and hundreds of kilometres of breathtaking scenery to walk, cycle or even paddle through.

There are no shortage of places to dine in this beautiful part of the state. Ox and Hound Bistro in Beechworth is a great smart casual option, or level up to Provenance for a real fine dining experience. Bright Brewery and Tomahawks (also in Bright) are consistently nominated as must-dos by regular visitors and residents alike. Get the chargrilled broccoli at Tomahawks – you will not regret it. 

The High Country is home to a surprising number of craft breweries. If you're partial to a pint, check out Bridge Road Brewers in Beechworth, or Bright Brewery in Bright. You can follow the High Country Brewery Trail to make a day of it – it's a good way to find some smaller, local makers.

It would truly be rude not to set aside a portion of your visit to traverse the stunning winery landscapes of the High Country. Brown Brothers , Campbells , Boynton's and Ringer Reef are some of the must-sees – but that's truly only scratching the surface. 

There's also a tonne of fun historical stuff to see and do in the region. Check out the Old Beechworth Gaol tour and learn about Ned Kelly, or explore the historic precinct for enthralling (and sometimes gross) facts about the town's gold rush era.

Our Place at Bright is made up of four houses that cater from two to 28 guests. The houses are light and airy and in a really central location – perfect for a weekend getaway where you don't want to spend too much time in the car. Or for a Beechworth alternative, try the 1860 Luxury Accommodation cabin. Built in 1860, the venue has been lovingly restored with period details that turn the cabin into a gorgeous retreat not shy on modern comforts.

If you do one thing...  

Eat and drink. The produce in the High Country is truly second to none – time spent exploring breweries, distilleries, wineries and restaurants is time well spent. 

Turn it into an overnighter

The best victorian campsites near melbourne.

There are plenty of places a stone's throw from the CBD where you can lawfully pitch a tent – take a look at the best here.

Explore something closer to home

The best secret gardens in melbourne.

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If you've seen everything there is to see at the Royal Botanic Gardens, it might be time to stop and smell the flowers at these unsung gardens around Melbourne.

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The Top 10 Day Trips From Melbourne

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

Melbourne offers plenty of things to do, but if you want to venture away from the city for a but, you’ll get to experience a whole new breath of fresh air. We use that expression because a day trip to a different part of Victoria usually includes hikes, wildlife, beaches (and the occasional wine tasting). 

Most of these day trips require a car, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Be sure to give yourself enough time for the ride back so that you’re not driving in the dark. Kangaroos, as cute as they are, are a problem on the country roads—kind of like deer elsewhere. For day trips that include public transportation, be wary that it might extend your travel time due to stops along the way. 

No matter how you get there, you’re sure to find a nearby adventure just a few hours from the city. Here are the top 10 day trips from Melbourne.

Ballarat: Learn About the Gold Rush at Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is a charming town known for the 1850s Victorian gold rush. This part of Australian history is similar to the California Gold Rush, where there was a discovery of wealth in the mines of Ballarat. Sovereign Hill is an outdoor museum where you can take a guided tour of the gold mine and pan for real gold. The best part? The whole museum is in character, including actors in costume, horse-drawn carriages, and Wild West-style buildings. Sovereign Hill takes you back in time.

Getting There : If you rent a car from Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), it’s an hour and a half drive on Highway M8 toward Ballarat. Otherwise, you can take the V/Line train from Southern Cross Station. The train takes about 90 minutes and drops you off at Ballarat Railway Station. From there, it’s about a 30-minute walk through town to Sovereign Hill or a seven-minute cab ride. 

Travel Tip : If you visit Ballarat during July, Sovereign Hill throws a month-long winter festival with Christmas lights, snow, and an ice skating rink.

Great Ocean Road: Drive Along the Southern Coast

The Great Ocean Road is a 150-mile stretch of road along Victoria’s southern coast, starting at Torquay and ending in Warrnambool. Along the way, there are stops for vantage points, wildlife encounters, waterfalls, and surfing. If you’re doing a self-guided road trip, be sure to stop at Bells Beach to watch the surfers. This beach is the spot where the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition is held each year during Easter. Have your camera ready for incredible rock formations at the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and Bay of Islands. 

Getting There : While a lot of visitors complete this route over a couple of days or more, it’s possible to do the Great Ocean Road in one day if you start early. If you rent a car in the city, take M1 toward Warun. Then take the exit toward Torquay to begin your coastal road trip. You can also hop on a tour bus that will take you to all the top spots in one day.

Travel Tip : Looking for a spot to stop for lunch? Lorne or Apollo Bay are small towns on the Great Ocean Road, where you’ll find restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

Dandenong Ranges: Nature Hikes and Bushwalks

The Dandenong Ranges are a set of mountain ranges east of the city. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, cycling, or bushwalks. Among the hiking trail options are Mathias Track (four miles round-trip), Bartletts Track – Blackhole Loop (3.7 miles round-trip), and Burkes Lookout Mount Dandenong (under one-mile round-trip). The Kokoda Track Memorial (1,000 steps) is a popular trail known for its challenging stairs to the top of a hill. It’s set in a wet and cool rainforest environment and offers a peaceful escape from the big city. 

Getting There : From the city, it’s a 45-minute drive along M1 toward Ferntree Gully Road. By train, hop on the Belgrave train from Flinders Street Station. Get off at Upper Ferntree Gully Station, and the carpark is just down the road. 

Travel Tip : The Dandenong Ranges gets super busy with tourists and locals on the weekend. Skip the crowds and visit during a weekday or get there early.

Mount Buller: Ski or Snowboard

Have you ever thought about skiing in Australia? If you’re visiting Victoria from late June to early October, consider a trip to the snow. Mount Buller is about a three-hour drive from Melbourne and offers 22 lifts and 740 acres of skiable terrain. Don’t expect anything like the Swiss Alps—skiing in Australia is quite tame and family-friendly. You can rent gear at Mount Buller, and lift passes can be as cheap as AU$66, depending on the time of year. It is one of the largest ski villages in Victoria, with more than 30 restaurants and bars, plus plenty of accommodation options.

Getting There : You can rent a car and drive yourself to Mount Buller or catch the coach bus service that regularly runs during the winter season.

Travel Tip : If you decide to drive to Mount Buller, you must have snow chains for your car tires. There are regular checkpoints on the roads where local authorities will ensure that you are carrying chains. If you aren’t, it could result in a fine, and you might have to turn around. You can purchase or rent snow chains at service stations and rental shops as you get closer to the mountains. 

Yarra Valley: Wine Tasting

The cool and wet climate of Yarra Valley makes it a prime region for producing wine, particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The best way to experience the Yarra Valley is on a wine tour or by car service so that you can learn about the region while having a designated driver. It’s a big area, but be sure to stop at TarraWarra Estate . It’s a massive property on top of a hill with a cellar door, art gallery, and restaurant. You can do a wine tasting here for AU$10 a person. Yarra Valley is not only known for its wine, but also for producing artisanal cheese, rich chocolate, and craft beer.

Getting There : By car, it’s an hour’s drive from the CBD along M3 toward Maroondah Highway. Otherwise, search for a winery tour or car service that’s right for you and your group. With a car service, you can arrange the pick-up and drop-off location as well as which wineries you’d like to visit.

Travel Tip : For a fun way to experience Yarra Valley, check out this bicycle wine tour . You can cycle through the countryside while stopping at various vineyards and eateries along the way!

Phillip Island: Spot Fairy Penguins

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Phillip Island is a small island off the southern coast that’s known for its wildlife, beaches, and nature walks. The Nobbies is a coastal boardwalk where you can spot Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony by looking through the viewing binoculars. When the sun goes down, be sure to check out the Phillip Island penguin parade . At sunset, a colony of tiny fairy penguins make their way from the water onto the beach.

Getting There : Phillip Island is a two-hour drive from Melbourne. Take M1 and M420 to Phillip Island Link Rd. This is a toll route, so be wary of that if renting a car.

Travel Tip : The penguin parade is a popular event on Phillip Island. Tickets are required for general viewing, so if you know it’s something you want to do, book in advance.

Grampians National Park: Scenic Hikes

There are plenty of hikes within Grampians National Park . It just depends on how far you want to walk and how much of a challenge you’re craving. An easy and popular hike is the Balconies Walk, a one-mile hike to panoramic views of Victoria Valley. To break a sweat, Hollow Mountain is a two-hour hike with a bit of rock climbing involved. It leads to a wide-open view of Wimmera Plain. 

Getting There : Grampians National Park is a three-hour drive from the city along the Western Freeway. You can also take the train by getting on the V/Line at Southern Cross Station direct to Ararat with connecting coach services to other parts of the region.

Travel Tip : Pack a lunch and snacks for a day trip to the Grampians. There are very few restaurants in town.

Torquay: Beach and Surfing

Torquay is Australia’s surfing capital where you’ll find big swells, fearless surfers, and laid back beach culture. This town is where brands such as Rip Curl and Quicksilver were born, which you can learn about at the Australian Surf Museum . Bells Beach and Jan Juc Beach are the best spots to have a picnic and watch professional surfers shred the rolling waves. 

Getting There : It’s an hour’s drive from the city along M1 toward Warun. Take the exit toward Torquay. It’s possible to get to Torquay via public transportation, but it would take two trains, one bus, and two hours.  

Travel Tip : If you’re in town during Easter, try to catch the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition at Bells Beach.

Wilsons Promontory National Park: Hikes and Beaches

At the southernmost tip of mainland Australia is a vast national park called Wilsons Promontory . It’s a beautiful area for camping, hiking, and spotting wildlife. When you’re there, take on the Tidal River to Pillar Point hiking trail. It’s a quiet 2.5-mile walk with ocean views along the way. Mount Oberon is a four-mile return track that zig-zags up to the summit. Once you’re at the top, it’s unobstructed views of the surrounding park. 

Getting There : Wilsons Prom is a two and a half-hour drive from the city of Melbourne. Take the South Gippsland Highway (M420) until you reach the exit labeled Korumburra/Leongatha/Wilsons Promontory. Then follow the signs into the park. 

Travel Tip : Be sure to visit Squeaky Beach during your day trip to Wilsons Prom. It’s filled with pure white sand that literally squeaks under your toes. 

Mornington Peninsula: Peninsula Hot Springs

For relaxation, take a day trip down the Mornington Peninsula to the natural hot springs. It’s a spa with thermal hot baths and private pools in a peaceful, outdoor setting. The Hilltop Pool, in particular, has a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding region. There are also options for dining, accommodation, wellness retreats, and massages if you’d prefer to upgrade your relaxation experience. 

Getting There : It’s about an hour and a half drive from Melbourne CBD to the hot springs. Take M3 towards Mornington Peninsula, then continue onto Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Browns Road to Springs Lane. There’s also a shuttle service that will take you to and from the hot springs from the city for AU$130. That price includes entry to the Bath House. The shuttle service is only available on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. 

Travel Tip : Get to the Peninsula Hot Springs before 9 a.m. for a discounted ticket. When you finish at the spa, continue a 20-minute drive to Sorrento for lunch at Rusty’s Cafe Bar and Grill .

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11 Incredible Day Trips From Melbourne

There’s no doubt about it: Melbourne is one of the best cities in the world. But sometimes — despite this city’s wealth of culture and coffee — you just get hit with a craving for something a little less busy.

A little more tranquil.

Fortunately, Melbourne makes for an excellent base from which to take a day trip. There’s so many great spots to explore around Victoria.

Let us be your guide as we delve into the coastal splendour of the Mornington Peninsula, wander through the rolling vineyards of the Yarra Valley, trace the path of the majestic Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, and discover the pristine wilderness of Wilsons Promontory National Park. We’ll share why you should rush to hike your way over the You Yangs and experience the enchanting spectacle of penguins returning to shore on Phillip Island.

There’s so many options when it comes to day tripping.

Today, then, we’re going to be sharing the very best day trips from Melbourne. Here’s what we recommend, from shortest-duration to longest.

Spend a Morning at Organ Pipes National Park

• Distance from Melbourne: 30 km / 30 minute drive.
• Accessible via public transport: Yes. You’ll need to take a train from Flinders St. Station or Southern Cross to Sunbury. From there, you’ll take the 483 bus to Moonee Ponds, getting off at the Organ Pipes National Park/Calder Fwy stop.
• Day tour available? Not for Organ Pipes.

If it’s a sunny day and you’re keen to spend a morning exploring somewhere new, Organ Pipes National Park is the place to be. It’s not too far from the centre of Melbourne and only requires a couple of hours of exploration to see it all. Pack a picnic to have while overlooking the geological features and you’ve got yourself the perfect half-day trip.

Organ Pipes National Park makes for a pleasant half-day out of Melbourne, following a 3 km circuit trail around the area’s most interesting features.

This part of Victoria was once coated in lava from a violent volcanic eruption in nearby Sunbury. As the molten lava cooled and solidified, it transformed into vertical basalt columns and has remained this way for more than a million years. You can explore the park by following a 3 km circuit around the area’s most interesting geological phenomena.

From the car park, take the trail down a moderately-steep hill until you come across a sign that directs you to the left; to Rosette Rock. This is the first landmark of the day. It’s a large basalt rock with circular columns imitating the spokes of a bicycle — it’s believed that it was once a pocket of lava that flowed inside a cave then cooled radially, creating this interesting pattern.

Take the path to the the left and you’ll discover the Tessellated Pavement: vertical columns of volcanic rock that you can climb on top of and explore. Be sure to walk across the rocks to the end, as the most impressive section is hidden away around a corner.

After walking back the way you came, you’ll soon approach the main attraction. The Organ Pipes are such an interesting geological feature and an impressive sight to behold. The chocolate-brown Jacksons Creek runs alongside the volcanic rocks, making the landscape even more picturesque. There’s a picnic area beside the lookout, along with some toilets, which makes for a perfect lunchtime stop.

Altogether, you can expect to spend two or three hours out at Organ Pipes National Park; a perfect half-day option from Melbourne.

Hiking in the You Yangs

• Distance from Melbourne: 55 km / 50 minute drive.
• Accessible via public transport: Not really. You can take a train from Southern Cross to Little River, but then you’ll need to walk from there, which is a 10 km trek!
• Day tour available? No.

If you love hiking and getting out in nature, you don’t need to travel far to do so. The You Yangs National Park is less than an hour’s drive west from Melbourne’s CBD, but will have you feeling as though you’ve travelled much further.

Dave and I are ambitious hikers, so with a full day in the You Yangs, we managed to tackled practically every hiking trail in the park, racking up 25 kilometres worth of steps in the process. But in reality, you don’t need to push yourself to do the same: many of the trails can feel a little repetitive, so we’re going to recommend the best way to get a taster of this beautiful park.

If you’re aiming to walk for around 10 kilometres, there’s three main walks you should consider hitting up.

First: is the Big Rock. Parking up at the Big Rock picnic area will get you within a hundred metres of this epic slab of granite, but we recommend parking at the Visitor Centre instead — the latter will take you on a 3 km return trail through the trees and up to the rock. This is one of the park’s most popular spots and for good reason: this is one big rock! Standing atop the stone makes for some particularly surreal photos when you look out at the surrounding bushland.

Next, drive to the Turntable car park and set off for the most well-known hike of the park: The Flinders Peak Walk (3.2 km return). Comprising 450 steps up a hill, this is a walk that can quickly get you out of breath, but the path is well-paved so it’s not particularly tricky. The views from the top make it more than worth it!

When you’ve descended from Flinders Peak, you’ll notice the signs for the East-West Walk, which takes you on a loop around the base of the mountain. Most people only opt to climb Flinders Peak, so this is an excellent option if you prefer your walks to be quiet and tranquil. We only saw a couple of other people across the entire five kilometre trail.

Adventuring in the Dandenongs

• Distance from Melbourne: 40 km / 60 minute drive.
• Accessible via public transport: Definitely possible, but you will struggle to get between the individual attractions without a car. To get to the Dandenongs, take a train to Upper Ferntree Gully and from there, you can catch a bus to Olinda. You can also take a train to Belgrave, where Puffing Billy leaves from.
• Day tour available? Yes! There’s several day tours that take you from Melbourne to Puffing Billy and its surrounds. The tour is priced at $188 per person, runs for 8 hours, and you can check availability here . This is a popular one, so book in advance, as it does sell out.

If the You Yangs are dry and dusty, then the Dandenongs are the complete opposite! This lush national park — just an hour’s drive east of Melbourne — is packed full of dense rainforest and ferns; home to hiking trails, gardens, eateries, and Australia’s oldest steam railway.

Because you can’t talk about the Dandenongs without mentioning Puffing Billy.

This locomotive is famous for being the only train in the world where you can sit on top of the carriage sills of the train, with your legs and arms dangling outside — you can see how it looks in practice our photo above.

And we’ve got a confession to make, over here at Everything Victoria, because we thought Puffing Billy sounded a bit cringe. It sounded a bit touristy. A bit like it would be full of screaming kids.

Well we’re holding up our hands and taking it all back because when we finally decided to take a ride on Puffing Billy, we both came away describing it as amazing . It actually was a fantastic experience — so much fun — and we’re now recommending it to everybody we talk to. And it’s definitely not just for kids — when we visited, the split was probably 80% adults to 20% children.

Now, the first thing to know is that Puffing Billy is exceptionally popular, so if you’re looking to take a day trip today , you’re going to be out of luck when it comes to riding the rails — tickets must be pre-booked and aren’t available from the station on the day.

However , despite its popularity (the most popular route from Belgrave to Gembrook sells out three months in advance!) there are occasional last-minute tickets available on less popular journeys. For example, in late-November, we managed to snag four tickets on the Belgrave to Menzies Creek route with just three days’ notice!

All that to say, if you’re going to be heading to the Dandenongs and you also plan to ride Puffing Billy, I recommend getting there half an hour early to ensure you grab a spot on the train that allows you to dangle your limbs outside.

But the Dandenongs Ranges have tons to offer outside of Puffing Billy — the area is enormous — so don’t feel disheartened if you can’t manage to get a seat; that just means you’ll be able to explore more of the region’s beauty!

If you enjoy a workout, you’re going to love the 1,000-step Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. It’s a fairly easy trail to follow, but you’ll need a moderate level of fitness simply due to the sheer number of stairs (yes, those 1,000 steps are pretty much all uphill!)

It takes under two hours to complete the loop; I recommending climbing up the Kokoda Trail and down the Lyrebird Trail to keep things interesting. Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of historical plaques about the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, which retraces the footsteps of those who fought in the Kokoda Campaign of 1942, in which 625 Australians died. You’ll learn all about their efforts on this track, while passing by lush rainforest, dense ferns, and tons of birdlife (including the rare lyrebird!)

If you prefer your explorations to be a little more sedate, there’s plenty of gardens in the area to take a stroll through. The most beloved is the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, which is known for its plethora of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias — it’s best to visit in spring to see their flowers at full bloom.

In summer, head to the Blue Lotus Water Garden, where you’ll encounter thousands upon thousands of different types of flowering waterlilies — best between December and April. And in autumn, the best spot is Alfred Nicholas Gardens; the leaves of the trees there transform into the most beautiful red-orange hues.

For some excellent views head to SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, where you’ll be able to grab some epic views over the forest and towards Melbourne. For wonderful boutique shopping, visit the town of Olinda, where you could spend hours picking out one-of-a-kind pieces.

For an iconic afternoon tea experience, don’t forget Miss Marple’s Tearoom in Sassafras. And if your kids are up for an adventure, check out Treetops Adventure, where you can make your way along zip lines tree ropes and even through tunnels.

A Beachy Getaway in Sorrento

• Distance from Melbourne: 100 km / 90 minute drive.
• Accessible via public transport: Yep, but it’s not the easiest journey. You’ll want to take a train from Flinders Street Station to Frankston, and then take the bus to Ocean Beach Rd. The overall journey time comes to roughly two and a half hours each way.
• Day tour available? Not for Sorrento.

Located at the southern reaches of the Mornington Peninsula, Sorrento is a lovely coastal town that’s home to a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a laid back atmosphere. Most people come for the sand, but Sorrento has so much more to offer than just beautiful beaches.

One of our favourite things to do in Sorrento is stroll along Millionaire’s Walk. This walking trail runs for one kilometre along the clifftops between Portsea and Sorrento, with the name referring to both the million dollar views over Port Phillip Bay and the large, expensive houses that line the path.

A wander through Sorrento’s historic town centre is like stepping back in time. The streets are lined with charming limestone buildings that house boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Plaques around town provide insights into the town’s rich maritime and pioneering history, and the Sorrento Museum helps to fill in any gaps.

When it comes to beaches, Sorrento has plenty. Front Beach is the most popular of the bunch, with its family-friendly calm waters and soft sands. If you prefer your beaches with a little less people, however, head to Diamond Bay. This is a local favourite with a sheltered cove and beautiful views.

Hit the Beaches of Torquay

• Accessible via public transport: Yep! Take an hour-long train from Southern Cross Station to Marshall Railway Station, then change to the 51 bus to Jan Juc. Get off at Merrijig Drive and you’ll be a 10 minute walk away from Torquay.
• Day tour available? Not for Torquay.

It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of Torquay here at Everything Victoria.

This beachy town marks the start point of the Great Ocean Road, but quite often, we find ourselves skipping out on the iconic drive just to simply while away a day in Torquay. Here, you’ve got delicious food, surf beaches aplenty, and so many gorgeous beaches. Skip spending day on Melbourne’s beaches and instead head to Torquay: it makes for a beautiful change.

If you’re into your surfing, this is a wonderful place to spend a day catching waves. The big draw is going to be Bells Beach, which is one of the most famous surf spots in the world, but there’s plenty of lesser-known spots, too. Point Impossible is home to excellent surf conditions, as is Jan Juc Beach. If you’ve never tried surfing before but have always wanted to have a go, head to Go Ride a Wave Surf School to spend a couple of hours trying it out.

The shopping in Torquay is excellent, so it’s well-worth spending an hour or two at Surf City Plaza. Here, you’ll find outlet stores for all of the big surf stores, like Rip Curl, Billabong, Quicksilver, Boardriders, Oakley, and more.

If relaxing on a beach meets your idea of a perfect day trip, then head to Torquay’s Front Beach, where the waves are calm and the waters clean. There’s a vast grassy embankment running along the beach, lined with playgrounds and sculptures, and is perfect for a picnic overlooking the water. Head to Fishos for some excellent takeaway fish and chips to have beside the sea.

One must-stop destination is the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie: I never visit Torquay without visiting! Home to some of the best chocolate I’ve ever eaten, this is a great spot for picking up souvenirs or treats for yourself. I recommend the giant white freckles, of which I have eaten five so fa.

For a family-friendly activity, opt for strawberry-picking at the Surf Coast Strawberry Fields. You’ll be able to stroll through dozens of rows of fresh strawberries with your punnet in hand, making sure only the ripest and juiciest ones make it into your container.

And finally, if you love yourself a good walk, set out on the Surf Coast Walk, 44 km trail stretches along the coastline from Torquay to Aireys Inlet . A great section of the walk runs from Torquay Sundial all the way to Bells Beach: a six kilometre walk that will take you to some of the best beaches in town.

Cycle or Hike the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

• Distance from Melbourne:  35km / 45 minute drive to Lilydale, 75km / 80 minute drive to Warburton.
• Accessible via public transport:  Yes! Take a metro train from from Flinders St Station to Lilydale (about one hour) and start from there. The 683 bus from Warburton gets you back to Lilydale at the end, stopping at most towns and villages along the way.
• Day tour available?  No

Keen to get out and enjoy some of the wonderful nature that surrounds Melbourne while taking in a bit of history along the way? Look no further than the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail, a smooth, mostly-flat 40km cycle and walking path that makes for a perfect Yarra Valley day trip.

If you’ve got your own bikes, just throw them on the back of the car or take them on the train with you to Lilydale. If not, you can easily hire mountain bikes or e-bikes from Cog Bikes , with pickup and drop-off at several points along the trail.

After the railway line stopped being used in the 1960s, the tracks were ripped up and eventually replaced with this delightful trail. It’s easy riding, and pretty much flat the whole way other than a short section at the start. As a result, it’s ideal for cyclists of all ages: I always see families out for a ride whenever I’m there, often with kids that look like they’ve barely graduated from trainer wheels!

The landscape varies between sweeping farmland and lovely sections of woodland, and the further you get from a town, the fewer other people you’ll see. I especially love the middle section between Seville and Yarra Junction, but really, there isn’t a bad part!

All of the old platforms and station signs have been retained along the trail, with useful information boards that tell the story of the local area, its people, and the railway line that connected them. The old station from Lilydale was also relocated to Yarra Junction, and now operates as a museum on Sunday afternoons and public holidays. It’s right beside the trail as you pass through town, so be sure to stop for a look even if you can’t go inside.

Because the railway ran between all the little settlements in the area, the trail does as well: ideal whenever you need to stop for a drink or something to eat! That also makes it very easy to just cycle part of the way, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and take the bus back to the start.

If you do make it all the way to Warburton, though, you’re in for a treat: with great cafes and restaurants lining the main street, this lovely little town beside the Yarra River is at popular daytrip spot in its own right, and the perfect place to end your cycle adventure.

Don’t feel like you have to tackle the trail on two wheels, though: that super-useful bus route makes walking a great option as well. I’ve walked the whole track over a couple of separate day trips, one from Lilydale to Seville and the other from Seville to Warburton. Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen, and you’re good to go.

We’ve got a complete guide to the trail , with lots of detail on each section, food and drink options along the way, and more.

Search for Gold in Ballarat

• Distance from Melbourne: 110 km / 90 minute drive.
• Accessible via public transport: Yep! It’s super easy. Take a 90-minute V/Line from Southern Cross Station to Ballarat. Trains run every 45 minutes or so. Ballarat’s train station is located in the heart of town and many of its attractions are walkable.
• Day tour available? Yes! The excellent Wine Hop and Coastal tours run a full-day tour to Ballarat , which includes a visit to Sovereign Hill and the Eureka Centre. It’s priced at $189 per person.

Ballarat makes for an excellent day trip from Melbourne. This charming city was once home to one of the most productive goldfields in the world; thousands flocked here in the 1850s in search of fortune. And oh, did they find it. In fact, they’re still finding it. Just last year, somebody uncovered a $250,000 gold nugget in the hills surrounding Ballarat; it happens on a near-yearly basis.

The goldfields unsurprisingly transformed Ballarat into one of the richest cities in the world and it resulted in the grand architecture you see on its streets today.

Ballarat is most well-known for its living museum: Sovereign Hill. Built on the site of an actual gold mine, here you don’t just learn about history, you live it. The complex is designed as though the 1850s never left: in this replica village, filled with actors and activities, you’ll be able to pan for gold, tour an underground mine, buy handmade lollies, ride a horse-drawn coach, make your own candles, dress up in costumes, and watch street performances on an hourly basis.

Needless to say, you could travel up to Ballarat and spend the entire day at Sovereign Hill; there’s so much to do there. But that doesn’t mean that Ballarat itself isn’t worth exploring. In fact, I recommend spending your morning in Ballarat and your afternoon in Sovereign Hill.

After arriving in town, grab a delicious breakfast from Cafe Lekker (our favourite cafe in town), then wash it all down with a flat white from Cobb’s Coffee, who serve the best drinks in the city. When you’re suitably refreshed, it’s time to hit the streets.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is an impressive space, filled with interesting, colourful artwork. I’m not at all an art gallery-enjoyer, but I still found plenty of exhibitions to swoon over. With free entry, it’s well-worth popping in and taking a look around.

The heritage architecture is the true highlight of Ballarat, so simply strolling down Lydiard Street makes for a historical adventure. This street is praised for having the best-preserved Victorian architecture outside of Britain itself! Highlights for me included the Regent Cinema, the George Hotel, and the Former Mining Exchange.

If nature calls to you, you’ll want to head out to Lake Wendouree and the peaceful botanic gardens that lay beside its banks. We walked the entirety of the lake’s beautiful six kilometre circumference, but you could just as easily take an Uber to the gardens to conserve energy.

After spending a gold-themed afternoon at Sovereign Hill, finish up your action-packed day with a pizza from the Forge Pizzeria. This is one of our favourite options for dinner, as their pizzas are so fresh and flavourful and with so many options for toppings.

The Great Ocean Road

• Distance from Melbourne: 280 km / 4:30 drive time.
• Accessible via public transport: It is… but it’s not particularly easy and it does mean that if you decide to hop off the bus to check out a beach, you’d need to wait an hour or two for the next one to come along. Still, there are regular trains from Southern Cross train station in Melbourne to Geelong, and from there, you can take a bus that stops regularly along the route — including the Twelve Apostles.
• Day tour available? Yes! There’s plenty of day tours that take you from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles and back again. The best provider, however, is Go West Tours. The tour is priced at $145 per person, runs for 13 hours, and you can check availability here . This is a popular one, so book in advance, as it does sell out.

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic road trips on the entire planet, so if you find yourself in Melbourne and you’re looking to get out of the city, this makes for a logical adventure. Dave and I have tackled the Great Ocean Road as a day trip several times now and always had a fantastic time.

Kick off your time on the Great Ocean Road with some beach time in the aforementioned Torquay. Torquay is our favourite town on the Great Ocean Road, due to its beautiful beaches and thriving food scene. Pond Cafe serves up the best brunches on the stretch of road if you’re keen for some food, while Mikro Coffee Roasters has the best coffee. Check out the beautiful sundial beside the water and wander beside Front Beach; if you’re in need of a new fit, head to Surf Plaza for its many outlet stores.

From Torquay, head to Bells Beach, a world-renowned surf spot, famous for its large swells and perfect right-handers, some of which reach as high as five metres when the conditions are right. It’s a beautiful spot, so do take the time to watch the surfers from the viewpoint overlooking the waves.

One of the most snappable spots along the road is the Memorial Arch. This is  the  place to have your photo taken on the Great Ocean Road. The wooden arch & statue commemorate the soldiers who built the road by hand, and makes for a scenic spot to stand beneath. Just be sure to watch out for traffic!

Up next:  Have you ever… ever felt like this? When strange things happen, are you going ’round the twist?  If you’re a 90s kid like me, you’ll have likely spent your childhood singing the theme tune to Round the Twist, the Australian children’s comedy show about a supernatural family. And the opening credits to the show? They featured the lighthouse at Aireys Inlet! Whether you were a fan of the show or not, the structure is a real beauty; well-worth a stop to have a look around.

The Great Ocean Road is known for its wildlife so I recommend stopping off at Kennett River, a teeny-tiny settlement, with little more than a general store and a thousand koalas. Yes, this is  the  place to be if you’re keen to spot those native marsupials in the wild. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to spot a couple of them at the start of the trail, saving you time.

And then, the main attraction! Of course, if you do just one thing on the Great Ocean Road, it has to be seeing the Twelve Apostles! These towering limestone stacks are forever impressive, rising up out of the ocean and just demanding to be photographed. You could spend an hour here, just walking around and taking photos, as every angle provides an impressive viewpoint.

Phillip Island

• Distance from Melbourne: 150 km / 2 hours drive
• Accessible via public transport: Yes! It’s actually pretty simple. From Southern Cross, take a V/Line bus headed for Yarram, and get off at Koo Wee Rup interchange a few kilometres south of Pakenham. There, you’ll swap to another V/Line bus bound for Cowes. In total, it will take about 2.5 hours to get there.
• Day tour available? Yes! You can take a 12-hour day trip from Melbourne with the eco-friendly Bunyip Tours. The tour is priced at $149 per person and you can check availability here .

Phillip Island is one of our favourite day trip destinations here at Everything Victoria. While it’s most famous for its evening Penguin Parade — where Little Penguins return to shore after a day of fishing — it also has so much natural beauty to uncover.

When you first get to the island, set your GPS for the Koala Conservation Centre. There, you can stroll along elevated boardwalks and up-close to these marsupials as they snooze in their treetops. Often, you’ll find yourself within a metre or two of a koala, which makes for such a magical experience!

Next up, head to the wonderful Churchill Island, which is home to the first European garden in Victoria. This little spit of land is connect to Phillip Island via a short bridge and is full of activities for kids and adults alike. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, opt for the hour-long North Point Loop around the top of the island, then head over to the working farm to check out the demonstrations. You’ll find sheep-shearing, cow-milking, and whip-cracking taking place throughout the day.

Phillip Island is home to some lovely little beaches, so take the time to check out a couple of them. Cape Woolamai is one of the best spots on the island for surfers and animal-lovers, with dozens of wallabies calling this part of the island home. Another beautiful spot is the Forrest Caves: a collection of sea caves on a stretch of untouched golden sand.

One particularly cool experience is the walk out from Kitty Millers Bay to the shipwreck of the SS Speke. Getting there requires walking just under a kilometre along a rocky beach, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Not many people head here, so it’s a good place for escaping the crowds and taking a moment to embrace your surroundings.

Round off your time on Phillip Island with the Penguin Parade! This takes place every evening at sunset on Summerland Beach. At the sun sets, thousands of Little Penguins return to the island after a day at sea, and you can sit there and see it all take place. Often, you can get within a single metre of these adorable animals and it makes for such a wonderful experience to see them all up close and personal.

If you’d like a detailed itinerary to follow, we’ve got a separate day trip guide for Phillip Island as well.

The Grampians

• Distance from Melbourne: 250 km, or a driving time of exactly three hours.
• Accessible via public transport: Technically, yes, but enjoyably, no. If you’re going to be travelling on a Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, or Friday, you can take a combination of trains and coaches from Southern Cross Station to Halls Gap (Melbourne to Ballarat/Ararat to Stawell to Halls Gap) with a total journey time of three and a half to four hours. Once you arrive in Halls Gap, you’ll be moderately limited without a car. Still, if you just want to get a taster of the Grampians, you could look to head out on the Venus Baths Loop hike or have a go at summiting Chatauqua Peak; both walks start from Halls Gap . You could also spend some time at the lovely cafes in Halls Gap or go kangaroo-spotting in the parks in town. Really, though, with such limited time, you’d be better off taking a tour.
• Day tour available? Yes! You can take a 13-hour day trip from Melbourne with the well-loved Go West Tours. The tour is priced at $145 per person and you can check availability here . This is a popular one, so look to book in advance, as it does regularly sell out.

If you’re big on hiking, there’s one day trip destination that’s best: Grampians National Park! Known for its rugged mountain ranges, ancient rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, this part of the state is a dream for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

With one day to spare, you can get a pretty good taste of what the park has to offer.

Once you arrive at Halls Gap (the main town in the Grampians), you’re going to want to kick things off with a hike to one of the park’s best viewpoints. The Pinnacles is one of the most popular lookouts in the Grampians, so make it your first port of call. Because time is limited, I recommend heading to the Wanderland Carpark and then tackling the trail from there to the Pinnacles. It’s 2 km return and should take around 90 minutes.

I recommend bringing a picnic with you for your day in the Grampians so that you don’t have to waste time waiting for food in Halls Gap. If you’ve done so, you can drive onwards to Reeds Picnic Area to replenish your energy. From there, it’s a few minutes to Reed Lookout; another breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the park.

From Reed Lookout, take the easy 1 km walk to the Balconies. This is another really popular spot in the park, thanks to its incredible views over the bushland.

Next up: MacKenzie Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in all of Victoria! It’s well worth heading here to take a look. You’ll want to take the MacKenzie Falls Walk (rather than the MacKenzie Falls Lookout Walk), which takes you to the base of the impressive falls. You can expect this walk to take 90 minutes return.

It’ll be around 4 p.m. by this point, so most likely, you’ll want to start thinking about heading back to Melbourne. If you still have a little more time, though, head to Halls Gap to spend an hour wandering through the town and spotting all the wildlife. Kangaroos and wallabies tend to hang out in the local parks and are surprisingly easy to see.

Wilsons Prom

• Distance from Melbourne: 210 km / 3 hours drive
• Accessible via public transport: Not really. You can take a V/Line bus from Southern Cross Station to Fish Creek, but that still puts you at 55 km from Wilsons Prom. From Fish Creek, you could hire a taxi, but given the high cost of doing so, you might as well pay for a tour instead.
• Day tour available? Yes! You can take a 12-hour day trip with the excellent Hike and Seek Tours. The tour is priced at $200 per person. Check availability here .

Located exactly three hours from Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory (known as “The Prom” by locals) is a haven for hikers, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts. Yes, this is one of the most beautiful parts of Victoria and home to some of the state’s best beaches.

With a full day on the peninsula — even with the long drive — you can see a surprising amount.

Start your day trip with a hike up the other-worldly Big Drift: a gigantic sand dune in the middle of a forest. It makes for some particularly epic photos and will have you feeling like you’re the only person around for miles.

Our favourite hike in the park is the Mount Oberon summit, so we’d suggest going there next. It takes two hours to climb and descend, but the views from the top, overlooking the coastline and mountains, make it more than worth it.

Grab lunch at the Tidal River General Store & Take Away (their hot chips are deliciously crispy), then aim to spend your afternoon checking out some of the Prom’s best beaches.

Squeaky Beach is a tourist-favourite, famed for its dazzling white sand that squeaks when you walk across it. Whisky Bay is particularly photogenic with its brightly-coloured granite rocks. And Norman Bay is fantastic for swimming, with calm waters and enough space to escape the crowds.

Round off your time at Wilsons Prom with a stroll along the Prom Wildlife Walk. It takes less than an hour to walk the loop, but will bring you up close to kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and wombats.

And That Was the Day Trips!

As you can see, there’s no end of places to day trip to from Melbourne.

One half of the team behind Everything Victoria, Lauren loves road trips, great food, and seeking out the best beaches in the world. Originally from the U.K., she moved to Melbourne after ten years spent exploring the planet as a travel writer; she believes she's chosen the best city in the world to live.

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The best day trips from Melbourne

Posted August 19, 2024

Looking for a fun day out? Hit the road and escape the city to one of these must-see day trip destinations in Victoria, all within three hour’s drive from Melbourne.

For those looking to travel for just the day, Victoria is a state where you can head out on a weekend and find forest, mountains, bush, beaches, villages, snow, lakes and quirky towns ; all just under a few hours' drive from Melbourne.

So, pack the car, pump up the tyres and get ready for fun-filled day trips to Victoria’s best bucket-list destinations. And remember, when heading on your own adventure, stay road trip happy by updating your  emergency roadside assistance  before you leave.

The Dandenongs

• Yarra Valley and Healesville

The Grampians

The great ocean road, mornington peninsula, phillip island, best day trips from melbourne.

Head for the hills and spend a day in the stunning Dandenong Ranges . The lush rainforest, less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is the perfect place to relax, unwind and get back to nature.

With more than 200 walks and trails, there are hikes aplenty if you want to explore by foot or, if you prefer the scenic route, hop aboard the historic  Puffing Billy steam train  as it glides its way through glistening gullies and towering mountain ash forests.

For something a little more indulgent, drop into the Olinda Tea House for an Asian-influenced high tea in a fairy-tale setting. With ceiling-to-floor windows and 360-degree rainforest views, this charming architectural gem is as close to treehouse chic as it gets.

Puffing Billy is a popular day trip attraction in the Dandenongs. Image: Visit Victoria

Bendigo is an award-winning regional city two hours north-west of Melbourne that is built upon a rich gold mining legacy.

Established during the 1850s gold rush, Bendigo's streets still echo with the tales of fortune seekers who flocked here in search of riches. Grand Victorian architecture like the Bendigo Post Office still lines its streets.

The Central Deborah Gold Mine provides a fascinating insight into the hardships and triumphs of Bendigo's gold mining days, allowing visitors to descend into the depths of the earth and experience life as a miner.

But Bendigo isn't just about its history; it's also a vibrant hub of contemporary culture and creativity. The Bendigo Art Gallery regularly hosts captivating exhibitions that draw visitors from far and wide. Meanwhile, the city's thriving food and wine scene showcases the best of regional produce, with bustling cafes, restaurants, and wineries offering delectable treats for every palate. The Bendigo Botanic Gardens, with its diverse collection of plants from around the world, provides the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. There are also plenty of other free things to do in Bendigo .

More: Everything to see, eat and do in Bendigo

The Central Deborah Gold Mine is one of Bendigo's historical highlights to see on a day trip. Image: Anne Morely

The Yarra Valley and Healesville

There’s nothing like spending a day in wine country to help replenish the soul. And where better to get your fill of gourmet goodies and gastronomic pleasures than Victoria’s oldest wine region?

Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley offers a world of sensory indulgence , with award-winning cellar doors, world-class distilleries to try , hatted restaurants and incredible encounters.

Love wine? Sip your way through some of the state’s best with a  Yarra Valley wine tour , where you'll be treated to three premium tasting experiences at some of the Yarra Valley region's most impressive cellar doors - plus indulge in some behind-the-scenes chocolate tasting at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice-Creamery.

Nestled in the Yarra Valley, Healesville is a charming town that beckons visitors with its picturesque landscapes and bevy of food and drink options. Make your way to Healesville Sanctuary to get up close and personal with some of your favourite furry friends, including koalas, kangaroos, echidnas and - if you’re lucky - even a platypus. More: The best free things to do in the Yarra Valley

Healesville is a picturesque town with plenty of tasty food and drink options on a day trip. Image: Visit Victoria

Tick off a bucket-list Victorian adventure with a day trip to the Grampians National Park , part of the Greater Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape three hours west of Melbourne.

This rugged hinterland is a haven for weekenders and serious escape artists alike, offering everything from incredible hikes and majestic mountain panoramas, to epicurean banquets, wildlife encounters, hot springs , and the largest number of significant and ancient Indigenous rock-art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. Keep your camera handy on hike or scenic drive to the photogenic MacKenzie Falls, Halls Gap, Boroka Lookout and the Grand Canyon, where your and Grampians highlights reel will feature one picture-perfect location after the other.

Don’t forget a visit to the Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre to help you get the most out of your visit to this stunning and culturally important corner of the state. You might even find time for a round of mini golf.

Day trip tip: On the way, stop in at the country town of Warrak, which has become mysteriously overrun by a secret mastermind who keeps making Minions -themed statues pop up left, right, and centre.

The Grampians are full of amazing sights to do on a day trip. Image: Visit Victoria

Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city, and it has the sights to match, including a beautiful beach waterfront esplanade with a ferris wheel, a sea bath (at Eastern Beach), and an art deco boardwalk. Look out for the colourful Baywalk Bollards on the esplanade: these sculptures chronicle the city's history in a cute and quirky way.

The Geelong Botanic Gardens make for a beautiful (and free) day out, and there's a quaint teahouse onsite for morning tea. Geelong Gallery is a fantastic regional art gallery, if you want to follow up your nature walk with some art appreciation.

Finally, if you're a history fan, you can't miss the Geelong Gaol and the National Wool Museum. Both are old buildings full of rich history and interesting exhibitions.

There are plenty of free things to do in Geelong , too, for a budget-friendly day trip or weekend getaway. More: The best things to see and do in Torquay , just 30 minutes by car from Geelong.

Geelong's waterfront features a calm sea bath area that's perfect for a family-friendly day trip. Image: Visit Victoria

When it comes to world-class day-trip destinations, Victoria’s  Great Ocean Road  is often top of the list. As well as being a culinary cornucopia , this famously craggy coastline boasts a bounty of brilliant activities and playful pit-stops to tick off the local tourism bucket list. Must-see wonders of the Great Ocean Road include a stop in the surfside town of Torquay, the quaint town of Lorne, Twelve Apostles National Park, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell and the Otway Ranges, where thrill seekers can even strap themselves in for a high-flying scenic adventure through the lush rainforest on an  Otway Fly Zipline Tour . You’ll literally see the forest from the trees as you swing your way through the towering canopy 30 metres above ground level.

Tip: It's around a two hour drive from Melbourne to Lorne, but you can explore the Great Ocean Road over many days, or even use the journey as part of a longer road trip to Adelaide.

The Otway Fly canopy bridge allows you to experience the true wonder of the Otways. Image: Visit Victoria

Heathcote is a hidden gem around 90 minutes from Melbourne that offers a unique blend of history, nature, culture and vineyards aplenty. Also accessible by public transport, it makes for a popular road trip in the autumn when the famed Valley of Liquid Ambers turn for the brilliant hues of the foliage season.

The beloved wine region, which produces some of the best shiraz in the world, is home to more than 40 vineyards and wineries, offering visitors a chance to indulge in a wine tasting or two, as well as myriad culinary experiences from gourmet restaurants to artisan breweries .

The town, which has a rich history dating back to the gold rush era, has preserved many of its historic buildings and sites, including the courthouse, railway station, and Chinese Joss House Museum. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the town's fascinating past.

If nature is more your thing, get out and explore the local walking and hiking tracks, including the striking Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve.

Soak up the serenity with a day trip to the Peregrine Ridge Winery in Heathcote. Image: Visit Victoria

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne's CBD lies Ballarat, Victoria’s largest inland city that beckons with a bounty of things to do on a day trip. As part of the  Goldfields region, it is a veritable  adventure playground  for families, friends and foodies alike. Take a step back in time at Ballarat ’s celebrated  Sovereign Hill , where panning for gold and gorging on raspberry drops are a rite of passage for Victorian children looking to step back in time. You can also take a visit to medieval times at Kryal Castle  or get up close with Australian animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park . There are plenty of free activities in Ballarat , too, like  a lovely stroll  by the lakes and historical monuments around the Creswick area or seeing the arts destination ArtHouse .

All ages can enjoy the historic charms of Sovereign Hill in Ballarat on a day out. Image: Visit Victoria

If you’re in need of some sea breeze, a day trip to the  Mornington Peninsula  is just what the doctor prescribed.

For the ultimate in relaxation, head to the  Peninsula Hot Springs  and bathe your way to the top, soaking up the spectacular panoramic views of the peninsula, or enjoy art with a vino on the Mornington Art Trail . There's plenty of local  restaurants  and  wineries  to try out.

If you're looking for a more whimsical adventure with kids, lose yourself among 10 acres of gorgeous gardens, including a year-round lavender labyrinth at  Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens , or cuddle a koala at the Moonlit Sanctuary .

And if you're after free activities on the Mornington Peninsula , there are plenty of those too. The area is filled with a plethora of local beaches, walks and galleries to enjoy at your own leisure.

Mornington Peninsula is one of the prettiest places in Victoria for a day trip. Image: Visit Victoria

Get ready for adventure with a day trip to Phillip Island. Enjoy an action-packed day of discovery at the famous Phillip Island Nature Parks , from an Antarctic journey at the Nobbies Centre to farm-style experiences on Churchill Island to seeing koalas in their natural habitat, or on a majestic whale watching cruise .

Come sunset, get a good spot at the  Phillip Island Penguin Parade  to witness the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins waddle their way across the sand from the sea to their burrows in and up close and personal experience like no other.

The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is a must-do on a day trip to the island. Image: Visit Victoria

The charming Goulburn Valley town situated on the banks of Lake Nagambie, is known for its scenic beauty, water sports and wineries. At around two hours' drive from Melbourne, Nagambie is an idyllic spot to escape to for a day, or even the weekend.

Lake Nagambie is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also famous for its  breweries  and  wineries , with several acclaimed vineyards and cellar doors, including Tahbilk and  Mitchelton that call the region home.

Lake Daylesford is a great place to enjoy a picnic and a relaxing day out. Image: Getty

A favourite amongst day trippers, wellness lovers and weekenders looking to explore, the spa town of Daylesford is a great way to relax on a day trip from Melbourne and only 25 minutes from the  RACV Goldfields Resort .

Bathe in the mineral waters of Hepburn Springs , enjoy a picnic by Lake Daylesford, indulge in a spa treatment at Daylesford Day Spa , shop for unique antiques at the famed Amazing Mill Markets and satisfy your sweet tooth at The Chocolate Mill before a relaxing drive home.

Being road trip happy is the best. Sign up to RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance before you leave →

More local guides

7 of Victoria’s most underrated travel destinations and hidden places

Regional Victoria's coolest and quirkiest small towns

Best walks, hikes and trails near RACV Resorts

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