overnight trips melbourne

22 Melbourne Weekend Getaways to Discover Victoria

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Jan 2, 2024 | Melbourne , Victoria | 20 comments

Melbourne is meant to be one of the world’s most liveable cities, but now and then, it is great to get out of Melbourne on a weekend getaway to discover Victoria. So if you are after suggestions for some great Melbourne weekend getaways to discover Victoria then you’re in luck, because I have a great list of suggestions for you.  

There are so many excellent places in Victoria worthy of a weekend getaway. From wineries, great hikes, beautiful beaches and quaint towns with award winning bakeries. There is really somewhere for everyone – for families waning a weekend trip to spend time together, to solo travellers exploring and couples seeking a romantic getaway. There are many places in Victoria to find your perfect Melbourne weekend escape. Here is my handpicked collection of best Melbourne weekend getaways to explore Victoria and all are within a few hour’s drive of Melbourne’s CBD.

I’ve really enjoyed writing this post as it has been getting me out and about from Melbourne. So this weekend trip from Melbourne guide has got you covered. Without further ado, here is my absolute awesome guide to easy Melbourne weekend trips. I’ve listed my getaways from Melbourne in alphabetical order, and not in any order of preference. Where will you go first from my list of suggestions?

Scroll through until you find one of the short breaks from Melbourne, which is just perfect for you!

If you haven’t explored Melbourne yet read my post  What to See and Do in Melbourne .

Table of Contents

How to Travel on your Melbourne Weekend Escape

The best way to visit the places mentioned in my best Melbourne weekend escapes guide is by your own transport, preferably a car. If you don’t have one,  get prices and availability to rent one through DiscoverCars here . Having a car provides you with more flexibility to get around to different places. However, most can be reached by public transport on the train and bus network.

Easy Weekend Getaways from Melbourne

For this Melbourne weekend escape step back in time in Ballarat. Ballarat is the third largest city in Victoria and was built from the gold rush in the 1800s. Even though there are many things to see and do in Ballarat the major thing to visit is Sovereign Hill. Here you can pan for gold and watch and participate in the hustle and bustle of an 1850s gold mining settlement. A highlight is the AURA sound and light show telling the story of the Eureka Rebellion – big part of Australia’s history. When reforms were sought by gold prospectors they clashed with government forces. They constructed a fortification in the Eureka goldfield, known as the Eureka Stockade. And it became a victory for the miners.  

Distance  and  Time : Ballarat is 115km away from Melbourne, about 1.5 hour drive. You can catch public transport to Ballarat. There are a number of regular train and bus services that leave from Melbourne’s CBD.

Click here to check out where to stay in Ballarat for your weekend escape from Melbourne.

Belgrave, Yarra Ranges

Belgrave is a wonderful option in the Dandenong Ranges for a weekend escape from Melbourne. The town is quaint and there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes to enjoy. But the piste de resistance is the Puffing Billy Railway. The railway is over a hundred years old and a must is to take a ride on the steam train, known as Puffing Billy .  

The ride is spectacular and very scenic. Having a ride on the train is a highlight for many not only families on a break from Melbourne with kids but adults alike. Sit with your legs dangling out the side – so much fun! The full Puffing Billing train experience can take a few hours from Belgrave to Gembrook and return. The train line is a dedicated line used by Puffing Billy trains only. If you don’t go on the train, just a walk along the train station will see you step back in time.  

You can buy a ticket for Puffing Billy at the station or book your trip on Puffing Billy online here to ensure you don’t miss out. There are also dinner options available.

Distance  and  Time : Puffing Billy in Belgrave is some 35km east of Melbourne. It will take about 30-45 minutes to reach the area by car. You can catch a train to Belgrave Train Station and the Puffing Billy Station is short 2 minute walk.  

Click here to check out where to stay in Belgrave

Bendigo is a large city north of Melbourne and a great Melbourne weekend getaway. It was originally a gold rush boom town in the 1800s. There are grand buildings still standing from this time. You can ride a vintage talking tram through the city listening to an audio commentary on its rich gold mining history. During the gold rush many Chinese came to Bendigo to make their fortunes. You can learn all about this at The Golden Dragon Museum. Still on gold, visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine and take a mining tour underground.

For something not about gold, visit Bendigo Pottery, Australia’s oldest working pottery to discover traditional pottery skills from its beginning in 1858 to today. Or simply walk around the Botanic Gardens or along the streets in town and appreciate the boutique stores within heritage frontages. I’d definitely pop into a cafe or restaurant to get a bite to eat or visit one of the many local Bendigo wineries.

Distance  and  Time : Bendigo is some 150km or about a 2 hour from Melbourne’s CBD. You can catch a train to Bendigo or take the drive up the Calder Freeway through some fabulous Victorian countryside.

Click here to check out where to stay in Bendigo

If in need of some pampering, head to the town of Daylesford and nearby Hepburn Springs for a weekend away from Melbourne. Known as being the spa capital of Australia due to the many soothing mineral springs, wellness centres and day spas found here. Many people looking for romantic getaways near Melbourne or a girls weekend from Melbourne for some pampering will love a weekend escape from Melbourne to Daylesford.

After you have enjoyed the pampering enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants serving seasonal local produce. But don’t forget to browse the town’s quaint shops, antique markets, art galleries and historic buildings.

Distance  and  Time : Daylesford is around 115km from Melbourne. It will take about 1.5 hours to drive.

Click here to check out where to stay in Daylesford for your weekend of pampering.

If seeking a great family weekend away from Melbourne then head to Echuca to ride the paddle steamer boats. Echuca is an Australian town in northern Victoria on the Murray River. It is actually one of the twin towns along the Victoria-NSW border with Moama, being on the NSW side of the river.

First stop in Echuca should be at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre housing lots of exhibits on the 19th-century Murray river trade. Then jump aboard one of the paddle steamers and ride along the Murray River. I loved our ride on the Emmylou as did my kids. So if you are looking for a family friendly weekend escape from Melbourne, Echuca is perfect.

Echuca is much more than being a river town, it is home to the Holden Museum, which car enthusiasts will love while everyone will find The Great Aussie Beer Shed unique and interesting. And there are plenty of eateries in Echuca to grab a bite to eat, from fast food at McDonalds to one of the eclectic local pubs with typical Aussie pub food on the menu .

Click here to check out where to stay in Echuca.

Geelong is on the western side of Port Phillip Bay. It is one of the oldest cities in Victoria and is in fact, the second largest city in Victoria. Geelong has a scenic harbour front with many highly-rated restaurants. This is where most visitors head first, and I don’t blame them, as you can easily spend your time dipping your toes in the waters, walking along the promenade and enjoying good food. So if you are seeking a beach weekend escape from Melbourne, Geelong may be the place.

If you leave the water side the city also has a cultural precinct at the west end of Little Malop Street. Here you will find the Geelong Gallery, the Geelong Library, City Hall and the Old Post Office that add an air of history and grandeur to discover.

Like Melbourne, Geelong has a number of street-art murals and laneways to explore. And if you are visiting during winter you may want to catch an AFL game of the local Geelong team.

Distance  and  Time : Geelong is around a 75km drive from Melbourne. It will take just over an hour to reach. You can catch a train to Geelong from Melbourne’s CBD. You can also catch

Click here to check out where to stay in Geelong.

Glenrowan is often used as rest stop for those doing a  road trip along the Hume Freeway .  As well as being a popular resting spot, it is a great place for a Melbourne weekend escape to learn about one of Australia’s best known bushrangers, Ned Kelly.

Ned Kelly roamed Victoria in the 1800s and there are many places he visited. But it is Glenrowan , scene of his final siege and capture that calls people to visit Glenrowan each year. Walk around the siege site, visit the fabulous new Ned Kelly Discover Centre and maybe have some afternoon tea in one of the coffee shops.

Glenrowan also has some fine wineries to enjoy. The region is known for full bodied reds, particularly shiraz and fragrant whites.

Distance  and  Time : Glenrowan is around a 240km drive from Melbourne and will take some 2.5 hours to reach – one of the furtherest Melbourne weekend escapes.

Click here to check out where to stay in Glenrowan or in Wangaratta, some 14km away.

The Grampians

Get back to nature for your Melbourne weekend getaway in The Grampians. If you love seeing dramatic panoramic views over valleys and mountains, visiting majestic waterfalls, see wildflowers and lots of native animals then a weekend escape to the Grampians from Melbourne should be on your radar. Some three hours west of Melbourne, the Grampians make for great weekend of hiking and views that can take your breath away.

The best way to appreciate the Grampians is go on one of the world-famous hiking trails so ensure to bring your walking shoes with you on this weekend escape from Melbourne. Hike to the highest peak, Mount William or one of the plethora of walks around Halls Gap. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are more relaxing pursuits in the Grampians to enjoy. Fishing, canoeing or kayaking are popular things to do in The Grampians many creeks and streams.

Distance  and  Time : The Grampians is around a 260km drive from Melbourne and will take some 3 hours to reach – one of the furtherest Melbourne weekend escapes.

As The Grampians is a national park, most accommodation available is of the camping and outdoor kind. Or preferring other options, Halls Gap offers some unique accommodation for the adventure seeker who doesn’t want to sleep outdoors.

Click here to check out where to stay in Halls Gap.

Hanging Rock, Newham

About an hour up the Calder Freeway you will find yourself in the  Macedon Ranges . With a number of quaint towns like Woodend, Trentham and Mount Macedon the area is known for one of its most famous landmarks – Hanging Rock.

Hanging Rock, or Mount Diogenes is a rare volcanic formation which is a great example of a volcanic plug. Years of weathering and erosion has resulted in its current formation which stands 105 metres high. It was made famous as being the location for Peter Weir’s iconic film,  Picnic at Hanging Rock , based on the book by Joan Lindsay. The rock is also important to local aborigines and was a refuge for bushrangers during the Victorian gold rush.

Start your journey at Hanging Rock in the Discovery Centre. Gain the history before ascending the rock yourself. There are two ways to climb the rock. The fastest is via the stairs or you can meander along the windy footpath. But the view from the top is spectacular. After your climb you may want to sit in the grounds and enjoy a picnic or head to one of the nearby local towns and enjoy the local produce in the cafes, bakeries, restaurants and pubs. There are also a number of wineries to visit.

Distance  and  Time : Hanging Rock is about 75km away from Melbourne. It will take about 1 hour to reach. You can catch a train to Macedon Train Station and a bus to Hanging Rock.

Click here to check out where to stay near Hanging Rock (Woodend).

Healesville, Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is an easy drive from Melbourne. In fact, it is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD. So one minute you’re in the CBD or the suburbs and the next minute you are surrounded by rolling hills covered in grape vines.

The Yarra Valley is world-renowned for producing cool-climate wines and you are spoilt for choice of the number of vineyards with cellar doors that you can visit. In fact, there are over 80 vineyards in the Yarra Valley. But one of my favourite towns in the Yarra Valley is Healesville and it is a great place to base yourself for exploring the Yarra Valley .

Healesville town is a gorgeous place in itself, the main street has plenty of old buildings filled with eateries, eclectic trinkets and gourmet produce. Walk along the tree-lined Main Street calling in to each building as you walk along. And if looking for somewhere to grab a bite, there are a number of pubs, a Beechworth Bakery Healesville and the renowned Four Pillars Gin House where you can sample gin with your meal.

Healesville is well known for its animal sanctuary, the Healesville Sanctuary. Deep in the Yarra Hills National Park this is a fabulous zoo to get up and close with the local animals. You can even book a swim with a platypus! You can purchase your online entry ticket to the Healesville Sanctuary here .

Distance  and  Time : Healesville is about 65km away from Melbourne CBD. It will take about 1 hour to reach. You can catch a train to Lillydale Station and a bus to Healesville.

Click here to check out where to stay in Healesville.

Lorne, Great Ocean Road

Lorne is one of my favourite Melbourne beach weekend getaways. Located along the Great Ocean Road, Lorne is more than a swimming and surfing destination. There is a vibrant town with many boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. What I love the most about Lorne is that you can head inland to  Teddy’s Lookout  which provides sweeping views over the town and along the coast. Then, take a drive in to the state park to visit  Erskine Falls . Set amidst a rainforest with ferns and Bell Birds, the waterfall is reached by walking along an easy walking track.

Distance  and  Time : Lorne is about 145km away from Melbourne CBD. It will take about 1.5 hours to reach. The best way to get to Lorne is by car.

Click here to check out where to stay in Lorne.

Mansfield is one of the gateways to Victoria’s high country and is a great Melbourne weekend getaway if you want to get back to nature. And there are plenty of easy hikes for families with young kids on weekend away in Mansfield to more experienced hikers. Not interested in getting some exercise? Then you may want to visit Mansfield Zoo. Yep, Mansfield has a zoo. This 30-acre zoo has over 100 animals offering visitors the chance to spend the day or even camp overnight with the animals during the warmer months? What a unique weekend getaway from Melbourne experience this could be!

Mansfield town itself is a vibrant town during the day with plenty of cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. I like to use Mansfield as my base to visit and enjoy the surrounding area. Not to far away is beautiful Lake Eildon where you can enjoy waterspouts and hikes. If you are a bike rider, you could ride the Great Bike Trail. Or head into the high country and mountain bike in summer at Mount Buller, or if visiting during the winter months, catch the bus up for a day of skiing or snowboarding.

Distance  and  Time : Mansfield is just over 200km away from Melbourne CBD taking about 2.5 hours to reach. The best way to get to Mansfield is by car.

Click here to check out where to stay in Mansfield.

McCrae, Mornington Peninsula

McCrae is one of those places that’s perfect whether you’re looking for one of those family weekend road trips from Melbourne, a girls or guys weekend Melbourne getaway or even a romantic weekend holiday with your bestie. It’s situated in a great position on the Mornington Peninsula for visiting many places including Arthur’s Seat for a Birdseye view over Melbourne, to peninsula wineries and all the beachside towns like Rosebud, Dromana and Sorrento.

McCrae’s beach is a fabulous bay beach great for swimming and water sports when the weather is hot. There are plenty of colorful little beach boxes along the shore adding plenty of character to the shoreline. McCrae Yacht Club near the beach boxes is a great place to learn to sail the waters of Port Phillip Bay.

When tired of the beach pop across Point Nepean Road to enjoy a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants. The Wildflower Cafe (nee Blue Bay Cafe) is a particular favourite.

Distance  and  Time : McRae is about 90km away from Melbourne CBD. It will take just over an 1 hour to reach. There is no direct train line to reach the Mornington Peninsula. You can catch a train to Frankston, then a local bus to get to McCrae.

Click here to check out where to stay in and around McCrae.

Milawa Gourmet Food Region

Milawa is a small town situated in the heart of the Milawa Gourmet Region. If you are a purveyor of find food and drink, then a weekend escape from Melbourne to this area is a must. A trip here is dominated by wineries, farms, restaurants, local produce and craft. Not all too interesting for families with kids wanting to escape Melbourne for a weekend – best left to those who enjoy the best Milawa local produce.

Major attractions include the Brown Brothers Winery, the Milawa Cheese Company, Milawa Mustards and the Olive Shop. My mouth is watering just writing this. If this isn’t enough, in Milawa town centre you will find the usual selection of shops, cafes and a bakery. Bring plenty of bags to take home you produce!

Distance  and  Time : Milawa is around a 250km drive from north of Melbourne up the Hume Highway . It will take close to 3 hours to reach.

Click here to check out where to stay in Milawa.

Macedon Ranges

About an hour north of Melbourne is the beautiful Macedon Ranges area. If you love easy walks to the top of volcanic rocks and granite boulders offering fabulous views and enjoying great artisan food and wine, then a weekend road trip from Melbourne to Macedon Ranges should be on your agenda.

There are many great local towns and villages to discover in the Macedon Ranges. Macedon, Mount Macedon, Romsey, Gisborne and Kyneton to name a few. One very close to Mount Macedon and well worth a visit is Woodend. This quintessential rural village has a wide tree-lined main street with gourmet food stores, cafes and the award-winning Bourkie’s Bakehouse for its vanilla slices – definitely have a coffee and vanilla slice here. And there are a number of local wineries to go wine tasting at including  Hanging Rock Winery.

Distance  and  Time : Mount Macedon is about 60km north from Melbourne CBD. It will take about an 1 hour to reach by car. There is a direct train line to Mount Macedon and from the station you can walk into town.

Click here to check out where to stay in and around Mt Macedon.

Olinda, The Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges, often referred to as The Dandenongs or The Nongs have been a favourite weekend getaway for Melburnians for a long time. They are a low mountain range rising some 633 metres and are full of nature and wildlife, cute villages, great food and a historic train known as Puffing Billy. They can burn with bushfires during the summer months and there can be snow in the winter months.

One of my favourite quaint towns in The Dandenongs is Olinda. To get there you will wind your way up the mountain passing under towering Mountain ash trees and forest ferns and through quaint villages like Sassafras and Kalorama before reaching Olinda.

Olinda is a great base in The Dandenongs for a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges or for going on one of the many hikes. Make sure to head to the top of the mountain to SkyHigh Mount Dandenong for panoramic views over the Dandenong Ranges and back to greater Melbourne and the bays. If hungry, there are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants to enjoy. Maybe head for a pie at ‘Pie In The Sky’ restaurant in Olinda then walk along the Main Street and enjoy the boutique stores of trinkets and clothes.

Distance  and  Time : Olinda is around 35km east of Melbourne. It will take about 30-45 minutes to reach the area by car. You can catch a train to Belgrave Train Station then a bus to Olinda.

Click here to check out where to stay in Olinda.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island would have to be one of the ideal weekend escapes from Melbourne as it has something for everyone. Beach-side accommodation for easy access to the beaches, a vibrant main town of Cowes with plenty of cafes and restaurants including the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory where you can see the chocolate being made and of course enjoy some. There are plenty of hikes to do on the island, or perhaps go surfing or visit the Phillip Island race track, home to the Phillip Island Motorcycle Grand Prix.

The highlight of going to Phillip Island for a weekend escape from Melbourne has to be the  nightly parade of the penguins . Each evening the colony of Fairy Penguins come home from a day fishing and waddle up the beach to their nests. This truly is a magnificent site and fun for all the family. For more options of what to see and do on Phillip Island read my post here .

It is best to book your ticket to see the penguin parade in advance so you don’t miss out, you can book it here.

Distance  and  Time : Phillip Island is 142km away from Melbourne, about 1.5 hour drive. There is a bus from Melbourne’s CBD taking you to the island.

Click here to check out where to stay while on Phillip Island.

Sorrento, Mornington Peninsula

Sorrento is a favourite beach-side getaway from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. Located almost to the end of the Mornington Peninsula, Sorrento is known for its heritage buildings, high-end boutiques and fabulous cafe culture. There are also plenty of mansions located on what is known as Millionaire’s Walk overlooking Port Phillip Bay, of which you can casually stroll to check out some of the mansions!

Sorrento can also be your base to explore this area of the Mornington Peninsula. You can head down to Point Nepean National Park where you could enjoy hiking on the back beach trails. Or maybe catch the Sorrento to Queenscliff Ferry and back.

Sorrento has two beaches. Sorrento Front Beach is sheltered on Port Phillip Bay offering family-friendly waters. While those who like heavy ocean surf head to Sorrento Back Beach. During the summer months the popular swells with many people coming to enjoy the water and the atmosphere that comes with Sorrento. From families enjoying a weekend escape from Melbourne, to couples on a romantic break from Melbourne or those seeking a fun weekend getaway, Sorrento has loads to offer.

Distance  and  Time : Sorrento is about 150km from Melbourne, taking about and hour and half depending on the traffic down the Peninsula Freeway.

Click here to check out where to stay in Sorrento.

Known as being a town near the start of the Great Ocean Road , one of Australia’s best road trips , is the seaside town of Torquay. If you are looking for a weekend beach getaway from Melbourne, then this town is a great option.

There are plenty of surf beaches near Torquay like Bells Beach and Jan Juc Beach to enjoy. And there are plenty of great cafes and restaurants plus the shopping is fabulous, particularly if you love surf wear. It was way back in 1969 when two board short companies created by four local surfers set up backyard business. These businesses are Quicksilver and Rip Curl – now two of the surf industry’s leading surf brand of clothes and both have their headquarters in Torquay. So if you are looking for surf gear head to Surf City Plaza where you will find all the best surf brands. And if looking for a bargain, head around to Baines Crescent where there are a number of surf brand factory outlets with loads of bargains. I’ve spent many a great weekend in Torquay stocking up on beach gear!

And if the surf isn’t pumping, or you’re sick of shopping, head to the Australian National Surfing Museum to get the history of surfing. It’s a great way to enjoy a weekend escape from Melbourne.

Distance  and  Time : Torquay is about 100km from Melbourne, taking about and hour and half depending on the traffic down the M1 and Surf Coast.

Click here to check out where to stay in Torquay.

Warrnambool

Founded in 1855, the town of Warrnambool makes for a great weekend escape from Melbourne if wanting to discover all things about the ocean. After all, it is at the end (or beginning) of the Great Ocean Road.

At the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village discover the area’s seafaring history and the shipwrecks that occurred along the nearby coastline. Kids will love the interactive activities this village and museum offers. Plus see many artefacts from the shipwrecks including the beautiful peacock.

Warrnambool is a vibrant town offering everything you need for your weekend escape. From cafes, restaurants and boutique restaurants. But it is some of the beaches that may attract you. Visit Thunder Point Coastal Reserve with its rocky ocean scenery. Or head to Logans Beach to enjoy the water or spot Southern Right whales from the Logans Beach Whale Watching Platform between June and September as the whales return to calve.

Distance  and  Time : Warrnambool is some 260km from Melbourne, taking about 3 hours to drive. There is a direct train to Warrnambool. One of my longer distance weekend trips from Melbourne.

Click here to check out where to stay in Warrnambool.

Williamstown

One of the closest weekend getaways in Melbourne is to the historic, bay-side town of Williamstown. A mere 15km or so drive south-west of Melbourne, this is the first site of European settlers in the state of Victoria to build a harbour.

There is a rich maritime history here and this is evident as you stroll the foreshore buildings and colonial landmarks like Timeball Tower and Fort Gellibrand. Many yachts dock alongside Gem Pier highlighting this seaside town. Ensure to visit the convict-built Nelson Place that now houses many craft shops and restaurants. Or maybe sit on the southern shore in the park or dip your toes in the waters of Williamstown Beach. Whatever you decide to do, it’s nice to know there is a great weekend getaway spot so close to Melbourne.

Distance  and  Time : Williamstown is only 15km from Melbourne, taking about 20 minutes to reach. You can catch a train or bus from Melbourne’s CBD to Williamstown.

Click here to check out where to stay in Williamstown.

Melbourne City

Lastly, why even leave Melbourne for a weekend away when you can enjoy a weekend in Melbourne? This probably sounds weird if you live in Melbourne, but when was the last time you had a staycation in Melbourne?

The best things about having a weekend in Melbourne is that most of the top attractions are right at your doorstep for you to get to know or reaquaint yourself with. Take the free City Circle Tram. Meet under the clocks at Flinders Street Station. Walk around a museum or perhaps go to the MCG to enjoy a game of AFL or cricket and stay nearby. Read my Free Things to See and Do in Melbourne here . The possibilities are endless.

There is, of course a stack of great accommodation options in Melbourne for all budgets and styles. Click here to read my guide on where to stay in Melbourne and click here to check out Melbourne accommodation options .

Are You Ready for a Melbourne Weekend Getaway?

There are many more weekend getaways from Melbourne I could have included on this list. Give me time, and I just may add to it, after I have visited some of them. In the meantime, the ones in my post should get you out and about for weekend getaways in Victoria.

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20 comments.

Lorne looks like a fantastic spot to visit!

Lorne is beautiful. It has a great beach, a vibrant town with plenty of coffee shops, restaurants and boutique shops and then there is the rainforest behind it with gorgeous waterfalls amongst the trees. What more can you ask for!

I haven’t heard about a few of these places around Melbourne! I’d love to visit Melbourne again and explore the surroundings! Thanks for sharing your recommendations!

Yes, definitely, there are so many gems to visit outside of Melbourne.

I really need to make it down to Australia one day. Melbourne seems like the kind of city I could spend months in and have a great time. From your list, Torquay, Warrnambool, and the Grampians are standouts for me. Can’t wait! Thanks for the inspo! 🙂

There are so many more places I could have put on my list for weekend getaways from Melbourne but I agree with you, Warrnambool, Torquay and the Grampians are standouts.

The Great Ocean Road is a bucketlist drive for me and I had never heard of Lorne and its waterfall. Thank you for putting it on my radar!

The Great Ocean Road is a truly spectacular road trip in Australia. I hadn’t heard of the waterfall either until I saw a little sign telling me ‘it’s that way’ and I followed and I am so glad I did. It’s only about 10 minutes drive behind Lorne – a great find.

Wineries, hiking, and beautiful beaches, sign me up! Each place sounds like a great weekend getaway, but Phillip Island is calling my name.

Yes, there are so many different and unique weekend escapes away from Melbourne. I think you would really enjoy Phillip Island – the penguins are so cute!

When I finally make it to Melbourne, I now have a great selection of breaks to head off on. Wineries and hikes -love them. Great round-up!

Thank you. Melbourne and its surrounds has plenty of interesting places to offer the visitor and locals – from wineries, to hikes, to quaint towns – plenty to see and do. I hope you get to visit many of the places suggested.

Wow! So many wonderful places to discover. Great article! Will save this one for future planning!

Great. Melbourne and its surrounds has a lot to offer visitors and locals. It’s always great to get out of the city sometime.

Saving it all for my dream trip to Australis, hopefully soon!

Wonderful, I have plenty more ideas throughout the website.

I would love to see the waterfalls in Lorne. Thanks for the great ideas for a visit.

Yes, beautiful – I loved the waterfalls in Lorne too!

So many amazing places! I can’t wait to make it to Australia!

Yes, Melbourne is surprising – it isn’t as spectacular as Sydney, but still has a lot of wonderful places to visit in and around Melbourne.

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G’Day! Sharyn here, an Aussie loving discovering Australia. Let me show you around so you can discover Australia too.  Read my story here.

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The 16 BEST Weekend Getaways & Day Trips from Melbourne

If you live in Melbourne (or regional Victoria) area – or are just planning a holiday to Australia’s cultural capital and are looking for some great day trips and weekend getaways, you’ll have plenty of amazing choices. It is no secret that Melbourne is a vibrant and exciting place to visit (for 8 years it was ranked as the world’s most livable city! ) and it’s a favourite with foodies, wildlife lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.

But getting beyond the city to its rugged landscapes, dense forests, dramatic coastlines and incredible wine regions is where you find so much more and that’s what makes these weekend getaways in Victoria and day trips from Melbourne an absolute must for residents, visitors, and tourists alike!

psst. Melbourne is featured in both our epic guides to 100 Things to Do in Australia AND the 25 BEST Places to visit in Australia . So you know it’s a pretty cool place, right?!

Table of Contents

• 1 A Map of the Best Day Trips from Melbourne & the Best Weekend Getaways in Victoria!
• 2.1 Great Ocean Road
• 2.2 Phillip Island
• 2.3 Healesville Sanctuary
• 2.4 Yarra Valley Winery Tour
• 2.5 Dandenong Ranges Tour by Puffing Billy Train
• 2.6 Grampians National Park
• 2.7 Macedon Ranges Tour
• 3.1 Daylesford
• 3.2 Wilsons Promontory
• 3.3 Ballarat
• 3.5 Mornington Peninsula
• 3.6 High Country Silo Art Trail
• 3.8 Mt Buller

A Map of the Best Day Trips from Melbourne & the Best Weekend Getaways in Victoria!

Click the map image to be taken to the interactive map! Day Trips from Melbourne are marked in Blue, Weekend Getaways throughout Victoria are marked in Purple and the Green Markers make up the High Country Silo Art Trail (one of our weekend getaway options). Scroll down to find out more about each marker.

And if you need a few city centre wallet-friendly ideas, our guide to the 25 BEST FREE Things to do in Melbourne is right here waiting for you!

The 7 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Great ocean road.

RATED: ★★★★★½ (4.8/5) This full day coach tour of the Great Ocean Road accompanied by an experienced guide, gives you the wonderful opportunity to sit back and enjoy the views of this stunning stretch of the Australian coastline. Along the way you will stop at some of the roads top attractions including Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell and the Twelve Apostles. And if you want to bypass a lot of the crowds consider taking a Great Ocean Road Reverse day trip .

Phillip Island

RATED: ★★★★½ (4.4/5) No trip to Melbourne is complete without a day trip to one of Australia’s most popular nature reserves where you will see a variety of sea birds, seals, and the famous penguins. Included within this Phillip Island day trip, you will also enjoy meeting the koalas and kangaroos at the Maru Koala Conservation and Animal Park.

On arrival at Phillip Island you’ll visit Cape Woolamai and Woolamai Beach where you’ll feel the sand between your toes as you watch the surfers taking on what are sometimes monstrous waves. You’ll then make your way to the volcano remains at The Nobbies before watching the little penguins make their way back to their burrow for the night at dusk. It’s the ultimate Penguin Parade Tour.

Healesville Sanctuary

RATED: ★★★★½ (4.4/5) Visit the Healesville Sanctuary where you can say hello to over 200 Australian native species, including kangaroos, wombats, koalas, and platypus to name a few. Top off your day by watching the spectacular ‘Spirit of the Sky’ bird of prey and parrots show. And if you want a more up close and personal experience, opt for one of the wildlife encounters that are offered by the sanctuary – which can be booked in advance direct (and is recommended in busy times).

Yarra Valley Winery Tour

Wine lovers will not want to miss out on a day trip to the Yarra Valley, where you will enjoy touring some of the region’s most well-known wineries (including Domaine Chandon, Yering Station and more!) Spend the day gaining an understanding of wine making, sampling some delicious wines and enjoy a sumptuous lunch too. And don’t forget to grab a few bottles of your favourite wine at Cellar Door prices!

Dandenong Ranges Tour by Puffing Billy Train

RATED: ★★★★ (4.1/5)  Enjoy a day to remember as you travel through Mount Dandenong with its lush Australian rainforest and picturesque bushland on the much loved, historic Puffing Billy steam train. Included within your sightseeing tour is a delicious Devonshire Tea, free time to explore the quaint little town of Sassafras and the opportunity to feed the native Rosella parrots.

Grampians National Park

RATED: ★★★★½ (4.7/5) Anyone who enjoys the outdoors will fall in love with the Grampians National Park. The far-reaching natural landscapes are ideal for nature lovers and budding photographers alike. As part of your trip, you will also learn about the areas fascinating history during the gold rush.

Macedon Ranges Tour

RATED: ★★★★★ (5/5) During a day packed full of fun, adventure and wine tasting you will visit a handful of top wineries where you will have the opportunity to sample some award-winning wines, paired with delicious food and learn about the region and it’s wine making history.

As part of your day exploring the Macedon Ranges, you will also enjoy a refreshing morning tea and a two course lunch, and with a maximum of 7 people per tour, it can be easily customized through discussions with your group.

8 Incredible Weekend Getaways in Victoria

Australia is a big place and travel abroad can be a bit of a stretch too far on the wallet of a lot of people. But that doesn’t mean that all travel opportunities are off the table. There are quite a few options when it comes to weekend getaways from Melbourne, which each help you explore the amazing state of Victoria.

Located North West of Melbourne, the town of Daylesford is renowned for its picturesque setting in the foothills the Great Dividing Range. The area is also known for the natural hot springs, making it popular with nature lovers and spa lovers alike who want to explore the surrounding landscapes.

Attractions to visit: Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, Hepburn Bath House (make it a spa day bathing in the mineral springs), Daylesford Cider Company (above), Daylesford Spa Country Railway & The Mill Markets antique store.

Places to stay: – Budget: The Daylesford Holiday Park – Luxury: Hepburn Spa Retreat – Family friendly: Daylesford Royal Hotel

Wilsons Promontory

Journey the southernmost part of the Australian mainland for a weekend getaway to remember in the heart of Wilsons Promontory National Park. Explore the varied landscapes of this area from expansive mudflats to sandy beaches, home to secret coves. The park is also inhabited by a range of local wildlife, including swamp wallabys.

Attractions to visit: Wilsons Promontory National Park , Wilsons Promontory Marine Park, Mount Oberon Summit Track, Squeaky Beach & Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse

Places to stay: – Budget: Prom Gate Getaway – Luxury: Tindoona Cottages – Family friendly: Buln Buln Cabins

The historic city of Ballarat in Australia’s Central Highlands is known for its temperate rainforests. Famous for the Victorian Gold Rush and the Eureka Rebellion, Ballarat is the perfect weekend break for anyone passionate about history. Or take a drive out to Sovereign Hill to learn all about the regions Gold Rush.

Attractions to visit: Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Kryal Castle, Ballarat Botanical Gardens & The Gold Museum .

Places to stay: – Budget: Begonia City Motor Inn – Luxury: Lascelles Ballarat – Family friendly: Best Western Plus Ballarat Suites

Situated along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, the coastal town of Lorne is just 2 hours drive from Melbourne and is a popular tourist destination for those who enjoy the outdoors, in particular budding surfers. The town is also home to a number of historic buildings. Making it great destination to explore as part of a weekend away.

Attractions to visit: The Erskine Falls, Teddy’s Lookout, Otway National Park & Lorne Beach – check out more things to do on the Great Ocean Road here.

Places to stay: – Budget: Lorne Coachman Inn – Luxury: Lorne World – Family friendly: Lorne Holiday House

Mornington Peninsula

Travel to the south of Melbourne to reach the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Sandwiched between Port Phillip, Western Port and the Bass Strait. Just a short drive from the centre of the city this is the ideal location for an overnight break.

Attractions to visit: Mornington Peninsula National Park, Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens, Cape Shanck Lighthouse, Fort Nepean, Peninsula Hot Springs & Bushrangers Bay

Places to stay: – Budget: Sorrento Beach Motel – Luxury: Carmel at Sorrento – Family friendly: The Mornington Hotel

High Country Silo Art Trail

Spreading over 200km, the Silo Art Trail in Victoria’s High Country is Australia’s largest outdoor gallery. Providing an insight into the true spirit of the Wimmera Mallee Region, the trail recognizes and celebrates the region’s people through a series of large-scale mural portraits painted onto grain silos, many of which date back to the 1930s. Use the official website (linked above) to help plan your trip as it features information on locations, accommodation options and most importantly – the location of petrol stations!

The town of Bright sits close to both the Mount Buffalo National Park and the Alpine National Park, making it top of the list for anyone wanting to explore this unique area of the Australian landscape.

Attractions to visit: Mount Beauty, Canyon Walk, Mount Buffalo National Park, Canyon Walk & Morses Creek

Places to stay: – Budget: Bright Avenue Motor Inn – Luxury: Bright Colonial Motel – Family friendly: Bright Riverside Holiday Park

The resort village of Mount Buller is a thrill seekers dream. With plenty of exhilarating activities to enjoy in this beautiful alpine region, it’s is a great place to hit the slopes or explore the picturesque hiking trails, with breathtaking views guaranteed

Attractions to visit: National Alpine Museum, Bindaree Falls, Scenic chairlift tour

Places to stay: – Luxury: Alpine Retreat Mt Buller – Family-friendly: Breathtaker Hotel & Spa

That’s a wrap! We hope this guide to the best day trips from Melbourne and the top weekend getaways from Melbourne has been of help and most importantly, we hope you have the most amazing time exploring this part of Australia.

And if you like this post, or know someone who needs help planning a trip around the great state of Victoria, please share this travel guide with them via Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter or Pinterest!

READY MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE RECENT POSTS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES AROUND AUSTRALIA:

• South Australia: South Australian Bucket List, Adelaide Travel Guide (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
• Australian Capital Territory: Top Things to do in the ACT
• New South Wales: Top Things to do in Sydney(inc. The Sydney Opera House), Best Places to visit in NSW
• Northern Territory: Best Things to do in Darwin
• Victoria: The Ultimate Victoria Bucketlist, Melbourne Travel Guide (Perfect for First Timers)
• General Australia Inspiration: 25 Best Places to Visit in Australia
• Queensland News & Events: Things to do on the Gold Coast

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Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Australia , Victoria , Weekend Getaways · April 1, 2021

Romantic Getaways Victoria: 13 Best Weekend Getaways from Melbourne for Couples

Are you wanting to plan a romantic weekend trip from Melbourne with that special someone? 

As much as we all love the amazing cafes, vibrant art scene and buzzing  laneways in Melbourne , sometimes you just need to escape for the weekend with your main squeeze. And there’s no better time than the present. These romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne will make you want to start planning your next sneaky weekend away ASAP! 

No matter what type of couple you are, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect place to visit on this list. Whether you’re looking for an active weekend of hiking in the Grampians, a road trip along the Great Ocean Road  to tick off your Australia Bucket List , or a visit to the beautiful Yarra Valley Wine Region. We’ve got you covered! 

And the best part… all of these weekend getaways in Victoria are within driving distance from Melbourne CBD! 

Here are 13 of the best romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne for couples to book Now!

Planning a romantic vacay? These 13 best destinations in the world for a couples holiday will inspire you to book a trip ASAP!

No time to read this now? Pin it for later!

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In This Post:

13 Romantic Weekend Getaways from Melbourne

#1 | daylesford & hepburn springs.

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Where to Stay: 

• Hepburn Spa Retreat
• The Dudley Boutique Hotel
• Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel
• Hepburn Spa Pavilions
• Clifftop at Hepburn – Solitude

Daylesford & Hepburn Springs has for a long time been an absolute mecca for couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne. 

Occupying a prime spot for nature bathing, Hepburn Springs has Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs. The area is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend for couples seeking a little wellness break.

The popular  Hepburn Bathouse & Spa  offers indulgent must-do wellness experiences. Pamper yourself with a hydrotherapy session in 100% pure private mineral baths, finished off with a dreamy couples massage. Be sure to book in advance so you’re not disappointed.

Once you’re feeling completely rejuvenated, get out and explore Hepburn Springs and Daylesford town. Check out the local art and craft markets, shopping boutiques and great cafes, and be sure to make a dinner reservation at Argus Dining Room.

Daylesford & Hepburn Springs boasts a number of the best couples retreats in Victoria – all in one tiny town! The biggest challenge will be deciding where to stay. Check out these favourites –  Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel ,  Hepburn Spa Retreat  or  Milk and Honey .

Recommended by Amanda from Bucket List Seekers

Read More: 150 Incredible Australia Bucket List Experiences you must not miss!

#2 | Bellarine Peninsula

Driving Time from Melbourne:  1 hour 30 minutes

• Anchor Geelong
• Barwon Heads Resort
• Starhaven Retreat

The picture-perfect Bellarine Peninsula is a hidden gem just 90 kilometres southwest of Melbourne. It’s a beautiful sleepy place with a charming laid-back vibe, only 1.5 hours drive from the city, and is possibly one of the most underrated Melbourne weekend getaways!  

The region is dotted with tiny fishing villages and historic seaside towns, each with its own individual character. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand along wide boulevards, visit galleries and vintage shops, admire some of Australia’s oldest buildings, and grab a coffee from one of the many cafes.  

The Bellarine is one of the largest grape-growing regions in Victoria with  top-notch wineries  offering incredible cold climate wines and spectacular ocean views.  Enjoy a romantic afternoon picnic amongst the vines and soak up panoramic views across the sparkling bay.  

In the evening, hop on board the  Q Train  an award-winning restaurant that travels along the historic Bellarine Railway for a multi-course degustation feast. Alternatively, enjoy a blues-inspired meal and party the night away on board the  Blues Train  with live entertainment in four carriages. Then spend the night in a cute  B&B , heritage-listed  inn , or a  grand old hotel .

Recommended by Audrey Chalmers From See Geelong

#3 | Twelve Apostles

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 4 hours

• Southern Ocean Villas
• Port O’ Call Motel
• Southern Anchorage Retreat
• Anchors Port Campbell

There are many beautiful and romantic getaways in Victoria but the one that stands out the most is the Twelve Apostles. It’s also one of the most popular weekend trips from Melbourne as the 4-hour drive takes you along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia.

The Twelve Apostles are wonderful as it is part of the larger trip of  driving the Great Ocean Road . What better way to spend some time together admiring one of  Australia’s most celebrated landmarks .

To make the Twelve Apostles even more romantic, plan your visit during sunset. They provide a jaw-dropping view as the sky changes between fiery red, deep orange and a splash of purple. It is a truly gorgeous site seeing the cliffs protruding out of the sea with the sweet noise of the ocean breeze keeping you and your loved one company.

Skip the fancy expensive meal in our opinion. Make it extra romantic and set yourself up for a little picnic as you watch the sun go down.

If you can’t make it for sunset, we would recommend visiting outside the 12-2 pm range, as this is when it can get busy with tourists visiting on day tours from Melbourne.

Recommended by Kerrie & Woody from  Just Go Travelling

Read More: Driving the Great Ocean Road Itinerary & Road Trip Guide

#4 | The Yarra Valley

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 45 minutes

• Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley
• Botanica Editions
• Chateau Yering

One of the most popular spots for couples to get away on a romantic weekend trip from Melbourne is the Yarra Valley. Located only a 45-minute drive east of Melbourne, if you are a foodie or wine-lover looking for a romantic escape then you must add a trip to the Yarra Valley to your bucket list !

The Yarra Valley is known as one of the premier wine-producing regions in Victoria and Australia. Yering Station is a crowd favourite. Within the expansive grounds, you can see where the wine is made and stored before settling into some fine dining in the restaurant.

If you’re seeking something a little more intimate for your romantic time away, take a wander next door to the  Chateau Yering . This beautiful 5 Star Hotel is set amongst heritage-listed gardens and is knowns as one of the best luxury romantic getaways in Victoria, with one of the best fine dining establishments – Eleonores Restaurant. All suites are furnished with antiques, fireplaces, marble ensuites, spa baths and four-poster beds. Add to that fabulous views, and you’ll find yourself in romantic Victorian getaway heaven.

Yarra Glen town is just a short drive from Yering and is home to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. Head into the coffee shop for more great views of the Yarra Valley and a hot chocolate with a warmed chocolate brownie – you can never have too much chocolate on a romantic weekend away!

After eating and drinking your way through the Yarra Valley, why not check out some of the other activities on offer. You can see the animals at the Healesville Sanctuary, ride the Puffing Billy Steam Train, hire a bike and ride the Warburton Rail Trail, hike one of the many trails, or take a ride in a hot air balloon. Romance is calling you to the Yarra Valley!

Recommended by Sharyn from Live Work and Play in Australia

#5 | Victorian High Country

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 3 to 4 hours

• QT Falls Creek
• 187 Merrijig
• Mt Bellevue

From stunning mountains and valleys, to cosy alpine resorts and a vast array of mountain biking trails, the Victorian High Country is a great place for an active weekend getaway from Melbourne.

Located about 3 to 4 hours drive from the city, Melbourne couples will not only find adventurous things to do in the High Country, but it also offers some great wineries, restaurants, farm gates, and an amazing craft brewery scene. Check out Pizzini Winery, Bright Brewery, or the King Valley’s Prosecco Road, which as you guessed, features a number of great prosecco wine producers. 

If you’re keen to get away for a skiing mini-break, then Victoria’s High Country is the perfect place to plan your next weekend trip from Melbourne in the wintertime. Head to one of the popular alpine resorts such as Hotham, Mt Buller, or Falls Creek. In the summertime, head to the High Country for s spot of hiking, mountain biking or take a dip in one of the High Country’s beautiful swimming holes.

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 2 hours

• Lorne World
• La Perouse Lorne
• Great Ocean Road Resort

Lorne  is a lively town located along the  Great Ocean Road  and is known for being one of the best Victorian weekend getaways. Located just under 2 hours from Melbourne CBD, Lorne’s beautiful beaches, quaint boutique shops and restaurants make it a popular destination for a weekend trip from Melbourne, attracting a mix of Victorians, interstate holidaymakers and international travellers alike.

Lorne’s main beach is perfect for both swimming and surfing. You can spend a full day here with your sweetheart lounging on the beach but when you are ready to stretch your legs, walk over to the Lorne Pier. Located on the western edge of town, you’ll typically find the beach lined with fishermen who are more than happy to show off their catch. Take a beach stroll at sunset and watch the colours cascade across the water around you at Lorne Pier.

Another great spot is Teddy’s Lookout which is located just a short drive (or hike) from town. It’s one of the loveliest lookout points along the  Great Ocean Road , nestled in the mountainside with vistas out over the river emptying into the ocean. Often you can find koalas snoozing overhead on the short walk from the car park. 

For a romantic evening out, head to Movida, an Italian restaurant with great wine and locally sourced ingredients. 

Recommended by Alanna from the Great Ocean Road Collective

#7 | Phillip Island

Driving Time from Melbourne:  2 hours 30 minutes

• Glen Isla House
• Saltwater Breeze Retreat

Phillip Island is about 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne and is a great place to visit for a day trip or better still, a weekend getaway with your main squeeze. 

One of the main tourist attractions on Phillip Island is the Penguin Parade, regularly referred to as Victoria’s Number 1 tourist attraction. Many tourists from around the world visit each night to watch the little penguins (formally referred to as fairy penguins) waddle their way from the water to their little nests up in the beach scrub.

Phillip Island has much more to offer than just penguins though. Churchill Island is a working farm where city folk get to experience what life on the farm would have been like in the 1800s. The historic homestead is as it was in the late 1800s and is a great insight into life for our ancestors.

Another great experience for weekend-seekers is the Koala Conservation Centre, this is a home for sick and injured koalas and the boardwalk there is built for optimum viewing of our famous native marsupials. If you get there early in the day you might just see these furry little guys up and about. 

Phillip Island is a great destination for couples, families and anyone really. But you probably want to allow at least a few days to  check out all it has to offer .

Recommended by Sally from Our 3 Kids V the World

#8 | Mornington Peninsula

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 1 hour

• Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
• RACV Cape Schanck Resort
• Sapphire Shores Luxury Retreat

One of the most popular places for a romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne is the Mornington Peninsula, most likely due to its proximity to the city. The Mornington Peninsula is only an hour’s drive from the CBD, making it a great option if you’re wanting to plan a short trip from Melbourne. If you don’t have a car, you can even get there on public transport!

From miles of vineyards, hiking adventures, and next-level natural spas, Mornington Peninsula has a lot to offer – and that’s before even mentioning the stunning stretches of coastal scenery. You can break up the drive by stopping off at Brighton Beach Boxes, Mount Martha, or one of the ample white-sand bays. 

If you’re an outdoorsy type, head to Point Nepean National Park for hiking and exploration. Take on the wartime tunnels or marvel at the views from the edge of the peninsula. Cape Schanck is also well worth a stop for the boardwalk winding around the red rocks and photogenic lighthouse, as is the London Bridge rock formation.

For the ultimate romantic scene, check out one of the many wineries, such as  Merricks Creek Cellar Door  or  Pt. Leo Estate , to sample the local wine and food before wandering around the gardens.  Peninsula Hot Springs  is a ‘must do’! The natural hot pools here are beautifully laid out to offer up fantastic views over the surroundings while you soak.

Finish off your weekend in Sorrento. Enjoy strolling around the historical buildings, beach boardwalks to Diamond Bay, and sampling the local restaurants.

Recommended by Cassie from Cassiethehag

#9 | Apollo Bay

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 3 hours

• Chocolate Gannets
• Seafarers Getaway
• Apollo Bay Guest House

Apollo Bay, located on Victoria’s southern coast is a gorgeous seaside town on the  Great Ocean Road  and is probably one of the most popular Melbourne weekend trips available. 

Just a short 3-hour drive from Melbourne (depending on the traffic), Apollo Bay provides a great base to explore all the attractions the area has to offer. From hiking and chasing waterfalls in the Otway Rainforest, to viewing the incredible limestone stacks in Port Campbell Marine Park (such as the Twelve Apostles, London Arch and Loch Ard Gorge). 

Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the Apollo Bay Coastal Trail or visit Mariners Lookout to admire the winding coastline or dip their toes in the (often freezing cold) Southern Ocean – one way to make you feel truly alive! 

For the wildlife lovers, keep your eyes peeled for Koalas in the trees as you drive along the road down to the Cape Otway Lightstation; or if you are heading back from the 12 Apostles, stop by Lavers Hill in the evening and see the Glowworms. For more inspiration, and things to do in Apollo Bay, check out this  Great Ocean Road Map  featuring everything from natural wonders, surf spots, waterfalls, spas and more!

After all that exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the selection of restaurants and bars within walking distance of the main street and beer lovers should be sure to stop by the  Great Ocean Road Brewhouse  to grab a tasting paddle. 

And if beer isn’t your thing, Apollo Bay is home to the only  Gin Distillery  along the Great Ocean Road. It’s got an amazing vibe and a fantastic food menu – their pizzas are incredible!

Recommended by Vicki from Great Ocean Road Guide

#10 | Bendigo

• Alexandra Place
• Quality Hotel Lakeside
• Balgownie Estate Bendigo

Bendigo was one of the central points of the gold rush back in the 1850s and while you will find gold mining tours available this doesn’t exactly scream romance. But Bendigo is one of those completely under-the-radar romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne. 

The  Hotel Shamrock  is a grandiose structure that is 150+ years old and is one building in town that provides a similar 19th-century experience that offers a great base for your romantic weekend away.

From here you can wander the surrounding streets to see more of this old-style architecture that gives Bendigo its unique character, from the imposing Town Hall building in the centre of town to the smaller shop fronts with lattice-covered awnings. A small but pleasant botanical garden is also nearby with the highlight being the large tower at the top of the hill that offers the best views in the district.  

Through the middle of it all runs a vintage tram line. This will take you out to Lake Weeroona and the Joss Temple. These are activities more suited to couples that let you stroll around at your own pace to explore amongst some pleasant surroundings.

After a day exploring the town, check out the great wineries on the fringe of town. You can to a self-drive itinerary or jump on a tour that will take you to three different cellar doors so you can enjoy the day without worry.

Recommended by James from  teamajtravels.com

#11 | Mildura

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 6 hours

• Mildura Golf Resort
• Indulge Apartments
• The Stable on Olive

If you’re looking for a couples getaway in Victoria that’s a little further from the city, Mildura has seclusion down pat. Whether your idea of romance is wining and dining or a bit of adventure,  Mildura  has you covered.

For food and wine, your first stop should be Langtree Avenue – known locally as Feast Street. There are alfresco dining areas, shady street trees and everything from fine dining to cafes. For more wine, try  Trentham Estate  with its river views or  Sunraysia Cellar Door  where you can sample over 200 local wines.

When you visit a river town you have to go on a paddle steamer (or perhaps  stay on one ). These historic old boats are perfect for taking in the scenery and relaxing. Watch the river go by on a lunch or sunset cruise. For something more active, a dusk paddle on Kings Billabong is fantastic. Glide between black swans and pelicans as the sky changes colour at dusk.

A sunset tour of Mungo National Park is also a great experience. Only 90 minutes from Mildura, the arid, other-worldly landscape is striking at sunrise and sunset.  Mungo Lodge  is a great base to explore the area.

Recommended by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

#12 | Grampians National Park

• Meringa Springs
• Boroka Downs
• Blaze Rock Retreat

Halls Gap is around 3 hours from Melbourne in the western districts of Victoria. The town is located in the magnificent Grampians National Park, making it one of the best secluded romantic getaways in Victoria. From the flat semi-arid countryside to the step-rising mountains with their rock faces and alpine vegetation, the Grampians are simply stunning. 

For your  visit to Halls Gap , you’ll find no shortage of things to do in town and the surrounding area. Romantic walks to waterfalls, hand-holding strolls to lookouts and hiking are the most popular activities in the region. Some of the best waterfalls include McKenzie and Silverband falls. Those looking for a view head to the Pinnacles with its all-encompassing views of the western districts. 

There are a number of great wineries where you can try the local varieties and match them with some world-class local produce. The local brewery,  Papers Scissors Rock  serves some great craft beer and bar food while the Spirit of Punjab serves some of the best Indian food west of Melbourne. 

Looking for something fun to do? Try the  Grampians Adventure Golf , the self-proclaimed best mini golf course in Victoria. Or make it one of the most unique weekend getaways in Victoria, by following the  Silo Art Trail .

Recommended by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Read More: Top 50 Most Famous Landmarks in Australia to Visit

#13 | Lakes Entrance

• The Esplanade Resort and Spa
• Bellevue On The Lakes
• Kalimna Woods Cottages

Lakes Entrance is the capital of the Gippsland lakes located 322 kilometres east of Melbourne. In spite of its distance from the CBD, Lakes Entrance offers one of the best Victorian getaways for couples, because of its beautiful beaches and romantic  seaside accommodation .

Ninety Mile Beach runs parallel to the lakes system allowing access to both the lakes and the ocean. Lakes Entrance is aptly known because it is the only place on the coast where the ocean meets the lake via an entrance. This makes Lakes Entrance a hotspot for ocean creatures. You’ll regularly see seals and dolphins. The Burrunan Dolphins are not found anywhere else on earth besides the lakes system of Gippsland. 

Romantic walks along the waterfront, cosy dinners in local seafood restaurants and drinking wine at the Wyanga Park Winery are a must do on a couples weekend away. The Lakes are popular for boating, fishing and all types of water sports. There are day cruises that can take you around the Gippsland lakes or even up to the winery. 

Other nearby towns on the lakes system to visit include Metung and Paynesville. The famous Raymond Island Koala walk is easily accessed from Paynesville. Whatever you’re into, you’re sure to find plenty of  things to do in Lakes Entrance  on your romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne.

Recommended by Bec from Travels in Gippsland

Looking to explore further afield?  Here’s a list of Australia’s top  50+ famous Landmarks  or 150 Incredible Australian Bucket List experiences to inspire you to discover more of this beautiful country! Also check out our  Weekend Getaway Guides  from other Australian destinations such as Brisbane ,  Sydney , Perth , and Tasmania .

Ready to Book Your Next Weekend Trip from Melbourne?

Victoria is arguably one of the most beautiful states in Australia . There are so many places for a romantic weekend getaway in Victoria that are within driving distance from Melbourne. No doubt there’s a spot on this list that is perfect for you and your significant other to enjoy!

We hope this list of the best romantic weekend getaways has inspired you to plan your escape from Melbourne ASAP and enjoy a little bit well deserved RnR with your main squeeze.

Have we missed a spot?  Can you recommend any other great romantic getaways Melbourne couples would love to check out, let us know in the comments below!

Planning to explore more of Australia? Read on for inspiration:

• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia
• 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
• 15 Weekend Getaways from Sydney
• 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria
• 8 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Perth for Couples
• 15 Best Weekend Trips from Brisbane
• 9 Places for a Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tasmania
• Ultimate 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

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The Best Melbourne Weekend Getaways

This article on The Best Melbourne Weekend Getaways may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase using these links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much for supporting Frugal Frolicker! :)

This Melbourne Weekend Getaways blog post was originally published in June 2018 and last updated in April 2024.

Melbourne is a fantastic (and “liveable”) city , but there’s some equally amazing stuff worth experiencing elsewhere in Victoria. From coastline to countryside to mountains, there are so many excellent opportunities for weekend trips from Melbourne, particularly if you’re craving a heavy hit of nature.

Here are what I consider the best Melbourne weekend getaways , all within a few hours from the city and ideal for a weekend away from Melbourne. Some of these Melbourne getaways are doable by public transport or group tour, but for maximum freedom you’ll want your own set of wheels if possible.

Table of Contents

Great Ocean Road

Driving down the Great Ocean Road isn’t just an ideal weekend away from Melbourne; it’s actually so epic that it frequently earns a spot on most any Australian bucket list.

Planning a trip to Melbourne?

These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:

Hotels in Melbourne: Booking.com

Flights to Melbourne / Australia: Skyscanner

Car rental in Melbourne: DiscoverCars.com

Activities in Melbourne: GetYourGuide or Viator

Travel insurance for Australia: Safety Wing or World Nomads

The Great Ocean Road spans about 243km (151mi) from Torquay to Allansford and runs along some seriously stunning coastline – some of Australia’s best, in fact. From the famous surfing mecca of Bells Beach to London Bridge and the Twelve Apostles, there are beaches and dramatic rock structures galore to explore.

Also, if you want to spot a koala in the wild, one of the best places to do it is at Kennett River… which is about halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay.

READ MORE: A Great Ocean Road Trip

The best way to see the Great Ocean Road is by hiring a car in Melbourne and driving down it and back. I don’t recommend booking a Great Ocean Road tour, as these are typically just rushed day trips from Melbourne. You’ll want the freedom to stop off along the coast whenever you want, for as long as you’d like – trust me on this.

Note that much of the road is winding and therefore slow-going. Couple this with the frequent urge to stop at viewpoints and beaches along the day and it’s safe to assume the trip will take much more time than you think it will. I’d recommend 2-3 days to make the return trip from Melbourne.

CLICK TO BOOK A CAR FOR YOUR GREAT OCEAN ROAD TRIP.

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road: I’ve stayed at this Airbnb in Warrnambool, and this Airbnb near Apollo Bay and recommend both. I’ve also camped along the way. If you’re a solo or budget traveler, the Apollo Bay YHA is a fantastic and eco-friendly option.

Mornington Peninsula

When I declared the Mornington Peninsula as the best Melbourne getaway, I wasn’t kidding. I still feel this way 2+ years later.

What makes the Mornington Peninsula so special is that it’s not really on the tourist track, yet it’s such an incredible spot that it really does deserve more fame and tourism.

I adore the peninsula because it has equally stunning ocean and bay beaches, wineries with a view of the sea, coastal hikes, and bush walks – basically all of my favorite things in life. And it’s not uncommon to have these spots all to yourself – makes it feel like you’re one of the few who are in on a secret, ya know?

Seriously, this place has everything you could possibly want in a coastal weekend away from Melbourne. You want photos of those iconic (and obscenely priced) rainbow-colored shacks on the beach? They are all over the bayside beaches.

Want to spot some typical Aussie wildlife? You’re sure to spot kangaroos and echidnas in the bush. Just want to relax? The Peninsula Hot Springs are a must-do.

And bonus: the peninsula is pretty well-connected to Melbourne by public transit, which makes it doable even without a car.

READ MORE: Why The Mornington Peninsula is the Best Weekend Trip from Melbourne

Where to stay on the Mornington Peninsula: I’ve stayed at this Airbnb in Rye and to this date it’s one of the most gorgeous properties I’ve stayed at. I’ve also stayed in this funky house in Capel Sound and it was just the coolest.

If you’re up for camping, there are several caravan parks along the bay, right on the beach. Unfortunately there aren’t really any hostels or budget options on the peninsula, but some of the Airbnbs are reasonably affordable.

Phillip Island

Most people know Phillip Island for its legendary nightly penguin parade . I’ve made two trips to the island and managed to have a phenomenal time without seeing these little creatures, so that should tell you just how worthwhile it is to make the trip out to Phillip Island. It really is one of the best weekend trips from Melbourne that you can take.

Yes, definitely watch the penguin parade – but don’t forget about the sea lions (best seen via an eco cruise) or koalas (there’s a koala sanctuary)… not to mention the gorgeous landscapes across the island.

Cape Woolamai and the Nobbies are the most scenic parts of Phillip Island and offer stunning coastal views and hiking trails. The rest of the island is dotted with beaches, vineyards, and farms. It really is quite picturesque and feels more like a country escape than an island one – which is not a bad thing, I say.

Phillip Island is accessible from Melbourne by bus, and there’s a seasonal shuttle bus that runs around the island and stops at most of the major sights and attractions. For maximum exploration and freedom, you’ll want to have a car.

READ MORE: Things To Do On Phillip Island (Besides The Penguin Parade)

Where to stay on Phillip Island: I’ve stayed at the The Island Accommodation YHA , which is an impressive budget accommodation option. I’ve also camped at Cowes Caravan Park which is right on the beach.

Wilsons Promontory

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. If immersing yourself in a marine national park sounds like an ideal way to spend a weekend away from Melbourne, get yourself to the Prom.

Wilsons Promontory is about a 3 hour drive and a world away from Melbourne. 

CLICK TO BOOK A CAR FOR YOUR WEEKEND AWAY FROM MELBOURNE.

Unlike most of the other weekend getaways from Melbourne mentioned in this post, this isn’t one where you base yourself in civilization and venture out into nature. The Prom is best done with an overnight stay in the park so you’re surrounded by nature full-time and can make the most of all the beaches and bush walks on your doorstep.

Be sure to summit Mt. Oberon for sunset, walk across the aptly-named Squeaky Beach, and wander out to the sand dunes at the Big Drift.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Wilsons Prom Walks & Beaches

Where to stay in Wilsons Promontory: If you want to stay in the park, you can book a campsite, cabin, cottage, or room in advance via Parks Victoria . Otherwise, there are a few B&Bs in Foster which is the closest town to the Prom. Personally, I loved camping in the park – this is definitely the way to go if you want to be up close and personal with wombats in the wild!

Yarra Valley

If you’re the slightest bit of a wino, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s most famous wine regions.

The Yarra produces some excellent cool climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. And at just an hour’s drive east of Melbourne, it suits as either a weekend trip or one of the best day trips from Melbourne .

If you want to drink without the burden of driving or choosing which of the many cellar doors to stop by for a tasting, it’s best to book a Yarra Valley wine tour. Otherwise, a self-drive tour of the region is more than doable as long as you’ve got a designated driver.

READ MORE: Yarra Valley Wine Tour: A Melbourne Must-Do .

Where to stay in the Yarra Valley: I haven’t stayed overnight in the Yarra Valley, but would recommend booking an Airbnb or staying in a house or cottage either on a vineyard or elsewhere in the countryside. A self-contained hideaway is the way to go!

The Grampians

The best way I can describe the Grampians is by referring to this national park as a rock playground.

Hiking and climbing the craggy rock is the thing to do here, but you could also see plenty by driving around between various lookout points. A couple recommendations: the Balconies yield some of the most stunning (and vertigo-inducing) views in the park, and Mt. Zero is a top sunset-watching spot.

The Grampians are about a 3 hour drive northwest from Melbourne.

Where to stay in the Grampians: You can either camp in the park, or stay in Halls Gap . The Grampians Eco YHA is a great budget- and eco-friendly accommodation option.

The High Country

Australia’s not known for its mountains, but if that’s your jam, the Victorian High Country is the place to go for some quality alpine time.

Drive about 3 hours northeast of Melbourne and you’ll be smack in the middle of High Country, anchored by the town of Bright. The region is renowned for its winter ski resorts and cycling routes. The Murray to Mountains rail trail runs for over 100km through the region and is a definite must-do on your Melbourne getaway, even if you just ride small sections of it at a time.

Unlike the bulk of Australia, the High Country experiences 4 distinct seasons and has plenty to offer during each of them. It has hands-down the best fall foliage in Australia, so for that reason I’d recommend an autumn visit. Driving down roads lined with yellow, orange, and red-leaved trees reminded me of my New England roots – it’s seriously stunning out here during the month of May!

No matter the season, do make time to explore Mt. Buffalo National Park’s waterfalls and hiking trails, go wine tasting at the picturesque wineries, and sample the local produce (cheese and nuts and berries!).

READ MORE: Highlights From Mt. Buffalo National Park

Where to stay in High Country: I mostly camped in free campsites around the High Country, but I think a B&B would be ideal for a weekend escape. There are heaps around Bright!

The Dandenong Ranges

If you fancy closeby Melbourne getaway or have kids in tow, the Dandenongs are an excellent choice.

Just an hour east of Melbourne, this mountain range makes for an easy access playground for Melbournians and visitors alike. Apart from bushwalking and frolicking amongst nature, there are plenty of noteworthy attractions in the Dandenongs:

• Kokoda Track Memorial Walk – aka the 1000 Steps Walk. Popular amongst fitness-minded locals.
• Puffing Billy Railway – A preserved steam railway that you can still ride today.
• Trees Adventure – Tree ropes and zip lining courses in the forest.
• Gardens – There are a number of gorgeous gardens around the Dandenongs, including Cloudehill Gardens, the Botanical Garden, the Arboretum, and more.
• Tessalaar Tulip Festival – A must-do if you’re around Melbourne from mid-Sept to mid-Oct.

Where to stay near the Dandenongs: I’d actually recommend basing yourself in Melbourne, since the Dandenongs aren’t very far away. 

Spa Country

For the less outdoorsy (or in my case, for the rain and cold weather-averse), Victoria’s Spa Country makes for an ideal weekend away from Melbourne.

At just a 1.5 hour drive northwest of the city, the Spa Country is home to 140+ mineral springs, making it the highest concentration of mineral springs in Australia.

Come to this part of Victoria to relax and unwind, indulge in spa treatments, and bathe in the rejuvenating mineral pools at one of these resorts:

• Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa – $45-55 for 2 hours of mineral bathing in the Bathhouse.
• The Mineral Spa at Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel – $50-70 for one hour or $70-90 for 90 minutes at The Retreat, which includes mineral water bathing, sauna, and steam room. Mineral have a view of the gardens and native bushland!
• Lake House – $105-135 for 30mins in the Treetop spa baths

Where to stay in Spa Country: Center your trip around the two main spa towns, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, and book in at one of the resorts or B&Bs in the area:

Geelong & Bellarine Peninsula

On the way to the Great Ocean Road is the Bellarine Peninsula, one of the most underrated weekend getaways from Melbourne. 

Geelong and the Bellarine, as this region is called, are chock full of idyllic seaside villages, surf beaches, and wineries. This is a great weekend trip from Melbourne if you want something more chilled out and less touristic than most of the other Melbourne getaways.

A few highlights of the Bellarine:

• Bellarine Rail Trail – Runs alongside the historic Bellarine Peninsula Railway from Geelong to Queenscliff. Cycle or walk through wildflowers and native birdlife and explore the landscapes of the peninsula.
• Adventure Park Geelong – Victoria’s biggest theme park. 
• Wine and dine – Sample the best local food and wine around the peninsula.

Where to stay in Geelong & the Bellarine: Book a boutique hotel in Point Lonsdale. The Nest contains 3 pods with panoramic views from each other their private deck spas. 

Gippsland Lakes

At just over 3 hours east from Melbourne, Gippsland Lakes is one of the better long weekend getaways from Melbourne. Head for Bairnsdale (the regional hub) and from here, you’ll be able to explore the largest inland lakes system in Australia.

What’s there to do at Gippsland? You must get out on a boat or some kind of aquatic vessel on this weekend getaway from Melbourne, whether you hire a kayak or paddleboard, charter a yacht, or go waterskiing.

One highlight of a trip to Gippsland Lakes is visiting Raymond Island, a small island in the middle of one of the lakes that’s home to Victoria’s largest koala population. You can get there via the free ferry from Paynesville. 

If you’re more of a beach bum than a lake fan, fear not: you’ve got 90 miles’ worth of golden sand in Ninety Mile Beach, which separates the lakes from the sea. It’s not uncommon to spot whales and dolphins from this beach.

Where to stay at Gippsland Lakes: Base yourself in Lakes Entrance (the nicer town) or Bair

Ballarat is a 1.5 hour drive northwest of Melbourne, and is Victoria’s third largest city (+ its largest inland city!).

This makes for a good weekend away from Melbourne if you’re seeking the comforts of a city, somewhere easily accessible by train, or a destination fit for history buffs and foodies.

If you fit into the former bucket, you can learn more about the 1850s gold rush era by visiting the Gold Museum, experiencing AURA (an immersive theatre experience about how gold “revolutionized Australia”), or panning for real gold at Sovereign Hill . 

Not into history? It’s fun just to wander down Ballarat’s heritage building-lined streets, stop off at cafes and shops that catch your eye, and have dinner and drinks at one of the top restaurants . 

Bendigo is another gold rush town in Victoria steeped in history (and $$). Think fancy old architecture, fountains, and manicured gardens. The city is also surrounded by bush and contains several lakes, so if you’re more of a nature lover than history buff, there’s plenty for you to enjoy here as well.

Here are a few of the top things to do in Bendigo:

• Take an underground mine tour at the Central Deborah Gold Mine  
• Ride on the Talking Tram, which covers a 5km route around the town centre
• Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, which is the largest gothic cathedral in the Southern Hemisphere
• Tour the Golden Dragon Museum and learn more about Bendigo’s history with the Chinese 
• Visit the Bendigo Art Gallery , one of Australia’s most popular regional galleries
• Hire a bike and cycle around Lake Weeroona or on the Bendigo Creek Trail

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22 best day trips from Melbourne

Keen to leave the city behind but short on time? Never fear, we’re big on ideas. Here are our picks for the  best short breaks in Victoria.

This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. When you click on them, or share this content, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Mornington Peninsula

For a day away that’s everything food, wine, and nature, head to the Mornington Peninsula . Just over an hour southeast of Melbourne, visitors head to the area to swim with seals and dolphins, gulp their way around the wineries, munch on local fare and explore the various bush walking trails. Stay at Flinders Hotel or Pride and Prejudice in the nearby historic village of Flinders .

Yarra Valley

Within arm’s reach of Lake Mountain Alpine resort, and one and a half hours from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is the perfect day trip. The area is bursting with museums, notably Tarra Warra Museum of Art which features the likes of Brett Whiteley, Sidney Nolan and Arthur Boyd. Walking trails, steam train mountain tours, and lush gardens also feature. Head for the Marysville’s Jazz and Blues Weekend in October.

Inland town Bendigo, Victoria’s fourth largest city, is the perfect day away. To make a weekend of it, try glamping among the vines at Balgownie Estate , get inspired by international drawcard exhibitions at the Bendigo Art Gallery , hop on a tram, shoot down Australia’s deepest gold mine, picnic in Rosalind Park, or have a go at pottery.

If you know your chardonnay for your chenin blanc, or just like the occasional boozy break, Ballarat is popping with options. Just an hour west of Melbourne, the historic gold rush town has canola fields (pictured), wineries and restaurants aplenty. Take a gander at the several galleries dotted around the town too. Tip: head over in late June and July for the Ballarat Winter Festival for fabulous food, wine and entertainment. Stay at Craig's Royal Hotel or Quest Ballarat .

Just 10km from the Murray River border with NSW, Rutherglen is an ex-gold rush town that’s steeped in history, and wine. Small-town charm makes this getaway the perfect break, especially when coupled with a crisp riesling and local produce. Glamp among the vines and wake up to views of rolling hills at your tent step. Line up a visit in May for the High Country Harvest. Rutherglen is three hours from Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road

Wind your way along the famous Ocean Road that stretches west out of Melbourne like a vein. Stay in an eco-lodge, meet many native hopping animals, encounter the majestic 12 Apostles , learn to surf, and explore one of the state’s lushest national parks, the Otway . Camping spots are also dotted along the drive for those keen to get in among nature.

Unspoilt Metung in the Gippsland Lakes , tucked away on the southeast coast, is a great seaside and winery escape. The tiny village is steeped in local fishing, boats and a slower way of life, and if you don’t mind the occasional vino, head twenty minutes inland for wine tastings. While you’re in town, throw a line out, learn the basics of driving a boat, or, if hands off with a caipirinha is more your style, slurp one back with the catch of the day. Metung is about four hours east of Melbourne so it's a long - but doable - day. But an overnight stay may be the wiser option. Stay at Metung Holiday Villas or McMillans of Metung Resort . Picture: Visit Victoria / Josie Withers

Wilsons Promontory

Three hours southeast of Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the place to retreat from the bustle of city living and dig your hands into nature. Enjoy bush walks, camping, fishing and surfing. If you’re partial to a spectacular vista, climb the granite mountaintops for Pillar Point , Norman Lookout or Mount Oberon Summit . Camping is available, as are contemporary cabins and glamping. There's also a Wilderness Retreat . Picture: Visit Victoria / Roberto Seba

Queenscliff

On the Bellarine Peninsula, about 1.5 hours south of Melbourne, near the entrance to Port Phillip Bay is the seaside town of Queenscliff . Accessible by both road and ferry, the town is a snapshot of times passed, with Victorian-era buildings dotting the high street, and a quiet elegance swathing the place. Enjoy local music shows, munch on the daily fresh catch, and dangle your legs on the century-old jetties jutting out around the main harbour.

For a truly outback, remote town, Mildura is extremely cosmopolitan. The town lies on the banks for the Murray River, and boasts “Feast Street”; a parade of delectable restaurants, ranging from Italian, Thai, and Spanish to modern Australian. Wineries and lemon groves skirt the town, and you can taste their wares after disembarking from one of the scenic paddle boats. The town has a recently hatted restaurant, Stefano, arts centre and annual country music festival. Mildura is just under six hours drive from Melbourne and definitely more of a weekend than a drive.

King Valley

Often likened to the rolling hills of Italy, rich in bountiful wine and hearty produce, King Valley isn’t far off. Set among the vineyards, the valley is renowned for its quality of food, and not just that, but activities too; horse riding, camping, fishing, hiking, 4WD tours, water holes and a brewery (if you can call drinking an activity…). Accommodation options are available too for all budgets. King Valley is three hours northeast of Melbourne. Picture: Visit Victoria / Josie Withers

At the foothills of the Otways, lies half-moon shaped Apollo Bay . The area is about as seaside as it gets, with seal colonies flubbing about, and kayaking, swimming, fishing, and surfing all on offer. Enjoy the catch of the day for breakfast (if so inclined), lunch and dinner, and if seafood is truly a passion, head to the Seafood Festival in February. When not floating in, or eating, the ocean, head to the Otway Forest Park to get lost in rainforest ridges and gullies. Apollo Bay is just under three hours from Melbourne. For accomodation, try the Seafarers Getaway or the Apollo Bay Waterfront Motel Inn . Picture: Visit Victoria / Paoli Smith

Dandenong Ranges

Just over an hour east of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges is an outdoors lover’s paradise with 250km worth of bush trails. The town itself is an eclectic mix of local produce, art(ists), music, open gardens, and lyrebirds (home of the ten cent piece icon). Take a ride on the lovingly named Puffing Billy , to see the range in all its glory as the steam train curls itself around the mountains. A range of cottages , B&Bs, and hotels are available to stay in.

Melburnians routinely flock to the hot springs of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, a pampering paradise, just an hour and half northwest of the capital. Among the spa sessions and marvellous massages, art galleries, markets, museums and high end restaurants (one overlooks the lake) also keep weekend visitors busy. To really kick your heels up, stay at the luxurious Lake House. Picture: Visit Victoria / Cormac Hanrahan

Just three hours west of Melbourne, the Grampians is the type of landscape that sticks with you; from the deep valleys, to the dramatic gorges and rooftop panoramic views. Glamping is available at the Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park , walking trails twist and turn everywhere, and swimming in one of the water holes is a must. After cooling off, head out to one of the many lookouts close to sunset — so magnificent are the views they take your breath away (no, it’s not just the altitude).

French Island

French Island , only accessible by boat, is one of the most remote spots in the state, yet just 60km southeast of Melbourne. Two thirds of the island is national park, so wildlife is nurtured here, and that’s abundantly clear when you realise koalas are a more common sight than humans. Set up camp with French Island Glamping , go wine tasting in the vineyards, head for a surf, have a swing of golf, or watch the local penguins come home to their young after a day of fishing at sea. Picture: Visit Victoria / French Island Glamping

An hour northwest of Melbourne lies the mysterious, infamous Hanging Rock . But apart from the spooky story of school girls going missing in 1900, there’s a lot to love about the area, including art exhibitions in January, pie workshops in February, long lunches among the vines, golf, cycling and llama-chaperoned walking tours through the Macedon Ranges.

Alpine village Bright, along the picturesque Great Alpine Road , is nestled between several ski resorts including Mount Hotham , Mount Buffalo and Falls Creek. Taste local tipples at the Bright Brewery , head on a bush walk to Apex Lookout , eat local produce from surrounding farms and wineries on the Ovens River, or take a dip in the Porepunkah swimming hole. Bright is three and a half hours northeast of Melbourne.

Mount Buller

Toast marshmallows, devour some raclette, and enjoy some warming apres ski in Australia’s most accessible ski resort, Mount Buller . The resort is an easy three hour drive from Melbourne, and is as good in summer too, with bush walking, a spa, horse riding, and a sculpture park to name a few. Stay at the Buller Backpackers , Mount Buller Chalet Hotel and Suites , the Duck Inn Mount Buller or the Alpine Retreat Mount Buller .

Phillip Island

If you're a nature lover, Phillip Island is overflowing with animals. Head down each evening to watch penguins return from their daily catching spree, waddling up the beach. Keep an eye out for migrating whales, while you throw a line out at one of the many fishing spots. Take a dip at Ventnor Beach (pictured), head to the Koala Conservation Centre , or jump on a tour with Wildlife Coast Cruises to see wildlife in their element.

Castlemaine

This vibrant little town is a true all-rounder. Make your first stop The Mill – originally built in 1875 and now home to a Viennese coffeehouse and coffee roastery, winemakers, sourdough baker, craft brewery, smallgoods maker, cheese and dairy producer, chocolatier and ice cream maker. Also be sure to check out the onsite Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar and Platform Number 5. Time your visit right and you can catch a gig at the art deco Theatre Royal – Australia’s oldest continually operating theatre. Kids of all ages will also love the Victorian Goldfields Railway rides.

Once a city focused on more on trade than tourism, it now boasts a buzzing waterfront precinct complete with the famous bollards artworks. Not to mention prime swimming spots. There are over 100 National Trust Buildings scattered through the city and on its doorstep you’ll discover a bunch of wineries . A massive attraction is the Museum of Play and Art ( MOPA) which is geared towards kids. 

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6 easy must-do weekend trips from Melbourne

Melbourne is unquestionably one of Australia's greatest cities. The capital of Victoria, this is one of the most heavily populated cities in this vast country and is a center for Australian culture, arts, sports, and lifestyle.

You could spend a lifetime in Melbourne without running out of things to do, and many local residents do exactly that. But as is generally the case with Australian cities, part of what makes Melbourne so special is what it's close to. Melbourne is the ideal base for weekend getaways, with some of Australia's most stunning destinations within easy reach of the city. Outside of Melbourne CBD, there's so much to see and do. The best weekend getaways from Melbourne can help you see more of Australia and appreciate just what makes this country so unique.

If you want to take advantage of the best weekend getaways from Melbourne, drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Melbourne before leaving the city. Knowing your things are safely looked after will allow you to relax and really enjoy these great weekend trips from Melbourne as you explore Victoria and beyond.

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Phillip Island

Just a short distance from Melbourne itself, Phillip Island provides an unbelievable destination for weekend trips that will make you feel like you've traveled a very long way from the city indeed. Explore the Australian wilderness in the shadow of the city itself.

Distance from Melbourne

Phillip Island lies out beyond the Mornington Peninsula to the southeast of Melbourne. Don't let the name fool you because you can actually drive right onto Phillip Island thanks to a causeway. It takes a little under two hours to make the trip, making this a fantastic option for weekend getaways from Melbourne

Our activity recommendations:

• Koala conservation centre: One of the most iconic and charismatic of all Australia's wildlife species, the koala occupies a special place in Australian culture and folklore. Of course, they're also incredibly cute. Phillip Island is home to a koala conservation centre where you can get up close to these cuddly animals and learn more about their care and lifecycle. Plus, you'll get incredible photos of these beautiful marsupials.
• Wildlife cruise: Several operators provide cruises along the Melbourne coast departing from Phillip Island. You'll get to see incredible scenery and encounter marine wildlife while a knowledgeable guide explains the rich ecology of the area to you. Visit a fur seal colony and keep an eye out for other animals like dolphins and whales as you enjoy this pristine natural environment. They also offer a specific Winter Whale cruise if you want to see these ocean giants in their natural habitat.
• Kayak Rhyll Inlet: If you prefer to get out on the water under your own steam, you can rent a kayak and explore the beautiful Rhyll Inlet and the rest of this coastal paradise. The perfect activity for nature lovers, it's a great way to burn some calories and get away from the crowds, and you'll see some spectacular natural environments as you explore on an unforgettable weekend getaway.

Best season to visit

There's no bad time to visit Phillip Island. However, if you're visiting with the purpose of seeing wildlife, you may want to consider the natural cycles of the animals themselves. To see whales, your best bet is to take part in the Winter Whale cruise, which follows the migration of humpback whales and takes place from June to August.

Grampians National Park

Melbourne is blessed with many national parks within easy reach of the city. Grampians National Park is one of the best-known and most well-loved, and if you take a weekend getaway here for yourself, you'll soon see why.

At around 250 km from Melbourne CBD , Grampians National Park requires a solid three hours of driving to reach. There's no public transportation out here, so you'll need to rent a car to enjoy this weekend getaway.

Our activity recommendations

Pinnacle Lookout: Reachable by a moderate 5.5-kilometer hike, this popular lookout provides absolutely stunning views over the alpine scenery of the national park. Close as it is to the city, you'll feel a very long way away on one of the best day trips or weekend trips you can possibly take from Melbourne.

Visit Mackenzie Falls : One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Victoria, Mackenzie Falls is easy to reach from the car park with a hike of less than a kilometer. Swimming isn't allowed here, but the magnificent falls are the perfect photo opportunity. Plus, if you're willing to hike down the river, you can easily find some swimming holes where you can cool off and refresh yourself in the clear but frigid water.

Rock climbing: If you really want to get the blood pumping, why not try your hand at rock climbing? Whether you're an absolute beginner or a seasoned climber, companies in the Grampians National Park can take you on an expedition to teach you some new skills and show you the wonderful scenery of this part of Australia.

Summer in Australia happens in November, December, and January, and if you want to enjoy the best possible weather for your outdoor activities, this is the best time for a weekend getaway to Grampians National Park. However, the park has plenty to offer all year round, and the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn make it more likely that you'll have the trails to yourself.

Yarra Valley

Located just to the northeast of Melbourne and the glittering Port Phillip Bay, Yarra Valley offers a landscape of rolling hills and vineyards that make it perfect for weekend getaways. Famous for wine production, the Yarra valley is a wonderful place to explore, whether on day trips or longer weekend getaways.

You can reach the Yarra Valley from Melbourne in as little as one hour of driving. To get the most out of this area, though, you'll want to have your own vehicle so that you can explore at your own pace.

Wine tasting: The Yarra Valley is one of Australia's top wine-producing regions, which makes it one of the best in the world. Home to more than 80 wineries, the Valley is an ideal setting for weekend getaways for wine lovers. Explore some of Australia's top wineries and sample the latest vintages as you learn more about the wine production process.

Dining: Great wine just isn't the same without great food, so it's no surprise that there are some exceptional restaurants in the Yarra Valley. Often, these are attached to wineries, so you can enjoy exceptional food made with local produce paired with the ideal wine.

Tarrawarra Museum of Art: One of the top art galleries in the region, this museum connects nature and art by focusing on works that represent the Yarra Valley and the countryside around Melbourne. It's a great place to take a break from all that wine tasting and feed your mind as well as your taste buds.

There's no bad time to visit the Yarra Valley, and most wineries are open year-round. However, harvest time, which runs from February to April, is one of the best times to visit the wineries of the region since you'll get to try the latest vintages. Plus, there are often festivals to celebrate this busy time of year.

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Another of the spectacular national parks you can visit from Melbourne itself, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the place to enjoy the spectacular coastline of Victoria and experience the wilder side of Australian life. As well as the 50,000 hectares of land, Wilsons Promontory is also home to a marine national park in recognition of its spectacular ocean wildlife.

It's 230 km from Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory, which puts it out of range for day trips. However, it's such a spectacular part of the world that it's worth the three-and-a-half-hour drive to get here.

Hike to Sealers Cove: If you're in the mood for a long walk, this hiking trail will let you see the national park at its best and get you away from the more crowded areas. Covering a round-trip of 19 km, the hike ends at a secluded beach where you can spend some time swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the scenery.

Stay at the lighthouse: The historic lighthouse here isn't easy to get to, requiring a day-long hike to even reach. That's part of its appeal. The cottages here have been converted into deluxe vacation accommodations, so if you really want to get away from it all, you can't do much better than this.

The Australian summer is the best time to visit if you want to swim and with water this rich and beautiful, why wouldn't you?

Great Otway National Park

At the point where the dense forest of the Victoria hinterland meets the coast, Great Otway National Park provides an escape from the city that rivals any of Victoria's national parks.

Lying west of the city, Great Otway is just over 200 km from Melbourne, requiring a drive of just under three hours.

Drive the Great Ocean Road: Built by soldiers returning from World War I, this road bills itself as the world's longest War Memorial. And it has to be one of the most beautiful. Winding through forests and along marine cliffs, the road provides stunning views of the Victoria coast.

Go surfing: Don't miss out on this great Australian pastime. There are some great surf breaks in Great Otway, especially at Johanna beach, and it's easy to find places where you can rent some gear and try your skills on the open ocean.

As is generally the case with national parks, the Australian summer is the best time to visit to get the most out of this location.

Located inland of Melbourne itself, Ballarat offers some fun activities that make it a great choice for weekend getaways.

Just over a hundred kilometers from the center of Melbourne, you can reach Ballarat in about an hour and a half.

Ballarat Wildlife Park: This interactive wildlife park is home to more than 400 species of animals, including familiar Australian species like wombats, emus, and kangaroos. Some of the animals are free roaming and will happily interact with guests.

Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens: Located at the summit of an extinct volcano, this beautiful botanical garden offers incredible views and hundreds of species of plants to admire. It's the perfect place to get some tranquility away from the city and enjoy the countryside.

The attractions of Ballarat are open year-round, so there's really no specific season when you should visit.

Melbourne is home to some exceptional things to do, whether you're looking for simple day trips from Melbourne or longer weekend getaways. The best weekend trips can take you to national parks, beautiful beaches, places where you can encounter the local wildlife, and the rolling hills of one of the world's most famous wine regions. If you only have three days in Melbourne , it's probably wise to stick to activities within the city. But if you have a little longer, you can enjoy the perfect weekend getaway, whether you're a nature lover looking for scenic trails in the beautiful Mornington Peninsula or an adrenaline junkie looking to go rock climbing in Grampians National Park.

Whatever you like to do, you'll find it here. Leave the bags behind and enjoy everything Melbourne's surrounding area has to offer on the best weekend trips in the region.

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31 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Victoria (+ Weekend Getaways!)

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 09/27/2023

Categories Victoria (Vic)

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If you are looking for the best day trips from Melbourne look no further!

We have you covered with the best places to go near Melbourne (within a 3 hour drive) and also places that are up to a 4 hour drive that you can take on weekend trips from Melbourne.

We have done the hard research for you! 31 TOP places to visit near Melbourne right here.

While in Melbs, see also:

• Things to do in Melbourne at Night
• Romantic Things to do in Melbourne
• Best Breakfast Melbourne CBD
• Romantic Restaurants in Melbourne
• Melbourne bucket list
• Best Day Spas in Melbourne

Need Melbourne Car Rental? We have secured a further 5% discount code with Bargain Car Rentals for our readers off their lowest rates!

31 Day Trips from Melbourne (+ a few Weekend Trips from Melbourne)

Williamstown (25 minutes from melbourne cbd).

Located 25 minutes from Melbourne on Port Phillip Bay, Williamstown is a nice relaxing place for a quick getaway. The first port settlement is teeming with museums, historical landmarks, quaint shops, and restaurants, providing a little for everyone!

If city life is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of parks for a walk or relaxing at the Williamstown Beach. This port side town is a perfect place for a day trip along the water, but not straying too far from home. One of the best attractions near Melbourne to visit.

Want to stay overnight? Quest Williamstown is a nice spot!

Image credit: Visit Melbourne

Queenscliff (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The small seaside resort town of Queenscliff, has a lot to offer. The picturesque views can be seen from every part of the peninsula, creating a very serene and relaxing atmosphere.  Victorian architecture, wide boulevards, and museums make Queenscliff a haven for new and established history buffs.

Family friendly activities, are also in abundance, such as the Queenscliff Music Festival, snorkelling, surfing and various river cruises. This day trip will surely be one to remember!

Fancy an overnight hotel with spa bath? Why not stay and make it a romantic getaway from Melbourne at Vue Grand Hotel 

Lake Mountain (2 hours north from Melbourne CBD)

Snow sports are the main attracting at Lake Mountain. Located two hours north of Melbourne, Lake Mountain is home to the most popular cross country ski resort in Australia. There are plenty of snow related activities such as a tube run, tobogganing, and even snowboard lessons for kids.

Playing in the snow, is just one of the benefits to this mountain, because there are also bushwalks, mountain bike trails, and a zip line, if warm activities are more your speed! This family friendly place, brings a little something for everyone and is sure to make everyone happy.

Geelong (1 hour south west from Melbourne CBD)

Geelong is a small city southwest of Melbourne. This small port city has many attractions along its bay side area including the Waterfront esplanade, the 19 th century carousel, and the art deco boardwalk. The vibrant artistic scene ensures a historic and unique experience for all visitors.

The Geelong Botanic Garden and Eastern Beach provide opportunities to explore nature close to home! A day trip to Geelong, will leave visitors entranced by the vibrant life and history of this port city! One of the best easy day trips from Melbourne!

Hanging Rock Reserve, The Macedon Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Sacred pre-historic volcanic rocks are the main attraction at Hanging Rock Reserve. Home to some of the best food and wine places in the areas, Hanging Rock is not just home to outdoor activities. There are opportunities to explore the artistic mediums of the people who live here, along with cultural experiences, such as plays, musicals, and even concerts!

Each of these activities use the Hanging Rock Reserve as its background, where adventurers can experience hiking trails and opportunities to learn the history of the volcanic rock formation. The Macedon Ranges has something for everyone!

Lorne (2 hours from Melbourne CBD)

There are plenty of popular tourist activities in Lorne to make any family day trip memorable. Many outdoor adventure activities populate the town, such as, swimming, surfing, pier fishing, and even some hiking. All of these activities provide splendid views of the Great Ocean Road and picturesque nature views.

Lorne is host to many cultural festivals that make it an appealing artistic venue for locals. Any trip to Lorne will be sure to leave you excited and awe inspired by the many opportunities this place has.

Wilsons Promontory National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Reconnecting with nature and experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat, are just a few of the unique opportunities Wilsons Promontory National Park offers. The winding trails lead hikers from the Tidal River to the beautiful white quartz sand of Squeaky Beach, ensuring you will feel rejuvenated.

The nearby Mount Oberon, provides scenic views of the Bass Straight and nearby islands; while the Lightstation provides a unique historic glimpse back to the 19 th century.

Bendigo (1 hour, 50 minutes north from Melbourne CBD)

The historic gold rush town of Bendigo lies an hour and 50 minutes from Melbourne. Each unique tourist experience, such as the tour of the Central Deborah Mine or the Golden Dragon Museum, allows you to learn and appreciate the history of Bendigo.

The award winning wine region offers a wide variety of food and drink, and are heralded for their Shiraz. So no matter what your poison, Bendigo offers experiences for everyone!

Grampians National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Grampians National Park is home to the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, bringing to light the local Aboriginal history and rock art. Around the centre is a sprawling nature reserve, home to echidnas and wallabies. The winding trails lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks of the Victoria Mountain Range. While, Halls Gap Zoo, the largest regional zoo in Victoria, exhibits over 160 native and exotic animals.

This unique park, even offers an award winning wine village and glamping experiences. Each activity will be sure to keep you and your family engaged with all aspects of nature.

Ballarat (1 hour, 30 minutes from  Melbourne CBD)

As the third largest city in Victoria, Ballarat is home to a diverse tourist market. Each award winning attraction and unique experience provides a day trip visitor an experience they will never forget. The Ballarat Wildlife Park offers a relaxing atmosphere allowing humans and animals to interact one on one to create memorable moments.

Kyral Castle offers kids the opportunity to experience medieval activities and broaden their imagination. Kids and adults alike will be clamouring to go back!

Yarra Valley (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The wine region of the Yarra Valley, boasts a cool climate known for producing Chardonnay. But there are family friendly activities for all day trippers! Many wineries in the area provide activities for children, while adults experience the luxury of the wineries. Along with wine, a unique experience that is a must do in the Yarra Valley, is the sunrise hot air balloon experience with Global Ballooning Australia. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are on display as you gaze at the beautiful sunrise.

Great Ocean Road (1 hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The 664 kilometre stretch of The Great Ocean Road, provides spectacular views of the coast of Australia, along with plenty of new experiences. The Great Ocean road can be a multiple day trip, or be shortened to one day. All along this winding war memorial, are surfing spots and spectacular sights, such as the 12 Apostles. These iconic rock formations dot the coastline, and ensure a unique experience for any traveller.

Each town The Great Ocean Road passes through, there are award winning and unique food destinations any foody will love! No matter how long or short your trip is on The Great Ocean Road, you will make memorable moments!

The Dandenong Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Adventure awaits at The Dandenong Ranges. The vibrant and exotic fauna and flora of the ranges, provide a magical and magnificent adventure away from the city. The cool Climate Garden offers visitors the ability to learn and study a wide collection of rare plants. Gumbuya World, Melbourne’s largest theme park, boasts an assortment of wildlife along with adventures for all types of thrill seekers. The Dandenong Ranges provide something for everyone to explore the wonders and joys of nature.

Mornington Peninsula (1 hour, 10 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Home to the Wine Food Farmgate Trail, Mornington Peninsula is a treasure trove of wonderful food and wine. Between food/wine stops, visitors enjoy the activities and attractions that populate the area. Historic garden hedges and mazes provide inspiration for the visitor, while activities, such as paddle boarding, at the beach provide relaxation. Each attraction on the peninsula provides something for everyone, leaving the entire family begging for more.

Daylesford (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The unique landscape of Daylesford provides an opportunity to explore the area of an extinct volcano. Utilizing the mineral springs in the area, the town is home to many natural healing therapies and spas, helping a weary traveller to find relaxation and peace. The region is also home to many walking trails and camp grounds, allowing any visitor the opportunity to explore the lush greenery of the area.

Phillip Island (2 hours south of Melbourne CBD)

Philip’s Island is best known for its Little Penguins that come into shore around sunset. Spectators gather for this unique opportunity once a day at Summerland Beach to see this ‘Penguin Parade.’ The wildlife residing on Philip’s Island makes each day a new opportunity to see something new. If wildlife is not your interest, then there are also beaches, fantastic eateries, and the Philip Island Circuit (a legendary track for racing).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyVRl1owBXw

Pentridge Prison (30 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

The Victorian Heritage Register has protected many of the buildings located at Pentridge Prison. The prison is home to various art exhibits as well as some spooky ghost tours. Some of the buildings are currently under restoration to be made into housing, retail, and open spaces for the public. Today, you can go to Pentridge and visit the prison and learn about its historic nature.

St Kilda (20 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

Excitement and adventure can be found at nearly every corner in St Kilda. The beachside town is known for its beachside activities and promenade. Only being twenty minutes from Melbourne, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing is abound. Each shopping and eating experience holds new opportunities and experiences to explore St Kilda’s diverse culture. A vibrant culture teeming with artistic talent makes this beachside town a perfect day trip.

Bellarine Peninsula (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The abundance of food and wine located on the Bellarine Peninsula is a foodie’s paradise. The fresh bounty along the Bellarine Peninsula Taste Trail, ensures you and your car will not go home empty. The serene views and distinctive landscape allow for adventures of both the land and sea variety. Art galleries, festivals, and eco-adventures populate the area ensuring each person will find something amazing to do on this day trip adventure.

Healesville (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Healesville lies close to the Yarra Valley making this a nice day trip for those interested in a variety of activities. The boutique shops and art galleries provide new inspiration for budding artistes; while the Glassblowing Studio gives visitors the opportunity to witness the historic art of glassblowing. An Animal Sanctuary and park walks allow you to experience nature one on one and explore the lush greenery of the region.

Flinders (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Flinders offers a unique architectural experience, with a preserved streetscape and historic shops. Lying on the coast of the Bass Strait and Westernport Bay, Flanders is home to Cape Schanck and the cleanest air in the world. The coastal walk among the bluestone boulders along the Flinders Blowhole Walk, ensure a beautiful view of the ocean coastlines and native animals.

Kyneton (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The gold rush brought the thriving village of Kyneton to life. If you enjoy history and picturesque views, Kyneton may be the place for you. Adventurous wine tastings, are sure to leave you raving about the wine of the region; while the bushwalks and village tours allow you to experience the history and natural beauty of the region.

The festivals and other artistic events held here every year are vibrant and diverse, allowing for new interests and activity to excite visitors!

Marysville (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The beautiful town of Marysville is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. The distinct Yarra Ranges National Park is located here, and provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.

After rebuilding from a raging bushfire, Marysville is a picturesque town rebuilt from the ashes. This small town serves as a launch pad for people who would like to visit the Alpine Resort in winter or a place for hungry hikers to get a bite to eat.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Weekend Trips from Melbourne Getaways

Bright (3 hours, 30 min from melbourne cbd).

Lying at the base of Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park, Bright is a region known for its fall foliage and unique experiences. Bright is a place to visit during warm and cold times of year. There are plenty of biking and hiking trails in Bright, along with skiing and snowboarding on Victoria’s Alps. Not only are there plenty activities but they have a world class foodie scene. Boutique restaurants and wineries line the streets, making this the perfect place for a long weekend getaway.

Mount Buller (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Mount Buller is a winter resort village situated three hours from Melbourne. The snowy ski slopes and terrain parks, make this an opportunity you cannot miss. Mount Buller is also home to the National Alpine Museum, chronicling the history of Australian’s winter sports.  A sports lover’s paradise, Mount Buller, ensures all adrenaline junkies will find an activity that suits them no matter the time of year.

Beechworth (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

A historic and charming town, Beechworth is home to many natural experiences. The hiking and biking trails around the area provide serene views of the valley and historical knowledge.  This once gold rush town, now has an artistic scene connected to nature, along with historic buildings. This long weekend getaway is made for those who like to enjoy nature, while also experiencing life in a small town.

Rutherglen (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Along the Murray River, Rutherglen is known as one of premier wine regions in Victoria. Populated with wineries, this popular place makes for a great long weekend getaway. Along with winery tours, there are plenty of biking and hiking trails. This little slice of paradise, will appeal to the wine lovers and adventure seekers allowing you to have a weekend you will never forget!

Metung (3 hours, 30 min from of Melbourne CBD)

If an escape to the coast is your wish, Metung may be the destination for you! The relaxed village atmosphere is perfect for all the water sport activities and experiences any adventurer will love. Fresh seafood and farm to table restaurants create a unique dining experience. At the foot of the Great Alpine Road, this vacation village is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the road and allows you to explore the Gippsland Lakes from land and water!

King Valley (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

A slice of Italy in Victoria, awaits you in King Valley. Wineries and Italian eateries line the valley and create the Prosecco Road. Festivals in June have local wineries open their doors to visitors and do winery walkabouts. Liking wine is a must, when visiting this area. The locally grown grapes and ingredients make the food and dining experience different from any other area of Australia.

Apollo Bay (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

On the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a well-known surfing spot for the surfing aficionado. The pristine coastal waters allow for any water sport fanatic to find something to do. Art, farmers markets, and pristine hikes, allow for fantastic views of the Great Ocean Road, while celebrating the culture of Apollo Bay. This getaway is certain to provide diverse experiences and have something for everyone!

Mildura (6 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Mildura is the centre of Victoria’s Food Bowl, growing most of the citrus fruits in the region. The beautiful sunsets and clear night skies make Mildura a nice relaxing getaway. There are activities for the whole family, including an Aquacoaster and various biking activities. This historical region even has a vibrant art scene and boutique retail stores, making the region a unique and interesting place for the long getaway!

Don’t forget to end your trip with some epic Australian Quotes !

Tip: If you bring a kid on the trip don’t forget safety first! If you need a new carseat, check out our guide one the best narrow carseats Australia

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The best winter getaways from Melbourne

Keen to hit the road for a cosy weekend away or minibreak? Here's where you should go

If you have a tendency to go into hibernation mode when winter rolls around, you're not alone. Melbourne's winters are cold, wet and painfully windy, and leaving your house can be a bit ask. But for the brave among us who are eager to embrace the cold, there are several amazing winter getaways worth bundling up for.

Hit the slopes and then soak in mineral-rich hot springs, or hunker down in a cosy cabin fitted out with a roaring fire while sipping whisky and warming yourself up from the inside. Whatever kind of winter getaway you're after, here are our favourite spots for a cool-climate caper. 

Looking to embrace the cold closer to home? Here are the best things to do in Melbourne this winter.  Keen to hit the slopes? Check out our comprehensive guide to Victoria's snow season.

Please check with venues directly for opening hours.

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Places to visit in Victoria in winter

High Country

If the words "winter getaway" conjure up images of crystal blue skies dancing over snow-kissed mountains as far as the eye can see, you need to hit the road to the High County. Victoria's Alpine Region is justly famous for its snowfall on mountains like Mount Buffalo and Mount Hotham, which are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and other winter sports. And of course, after the day's exertion is done comes the best bit, the après ski. And you can take part in that whether you put in a hard day on the slopes or not. 

There is one venue in the Alpine town of Bright that every single person recommends:  Tomahawks . The venue feels like the most fun Hawaiian beachside bar you can imagine got transplanted to the snow, and the food is exceptionally good. Burgers and small sharing plates are the order of the day here.

Or go fancy and head to  Provenance . Although you might eat one of the animals from our coat of arms on your visit, the flavours will remind you a little bit of Europe and a lot of Japan.

If you are looking for a classy cocktail bar that would feel at home in Fitzroy or Carlton, make sure you visit  Dr Mauve  in Bright (and do ask a staff member about the name, and the provenance of the wall full of ridiculous cat pictures and paintings).

Or head to the neighbouring King Valley , whose prosecco is the envy of Australia. Our recommendation is family-owned Pizzini Wines . 

If it's winter sports you're after, you're going to want to make tracks in the snow to Mount Hotham, Mount Buffalo, Falls Creek or another one of the awe-inspiring peaks in the region. If you're not confident with your equipment, there are plenty of lessons to be had. If you are, black diamond trails await your inner daredevil. Make sure you have your Medicare card on you. Check out our comprehensive guide to the Victorian snowfields .

Go all out at the  1860 Luxury Accommodation  in Beechworth. The timber cabin (from, yes, 1860) was originally situated in the town of Emerald and was shifted to Taggerty and then to its present home in Beechworth. No expense has been spared to turn the cabin into a gorgeous retreat, complete with modern comforts and beautiful period styling.

If you do just one thing...   Check out the historic precinct in Beechworth  to learn about Victoria's colonial history  – along with more Ned Kelly facts than you can shake a bucket at.

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Is there anything cosier in the depths of winter than a long soak in a gorgeous hot mineral spring? Melburnians have been going to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs forever in order to make the most of the natural mineral water in the region. Other highlights include contemplative art galleries, heritage train rides and a museum that tells the stories of the Dja Dja Wurrung people, who are the traditional owners of the land. 

If you feel like splashing some serious cash,  Lake House  is the place to go in the region. Arrange yourself on a comfortable banquette in the Cape Cod-style dining room and get acquainted with Alla Wolf-Tasker’s lush modern European menu, which champions local producers. 

The oldest hotel in Daylesford,  the Farmers Arms ,  ticks two key boxes: it’s a delightful local boozer and a destination pub worthy of a short drive. The 1857-built pub also serves fantastic farm-to-table meals. 

Make a beeline for the  Mill Markets , a massive permanent market that fans of Australiana will love (think vintage tea towels, postcards, kitsch tableware and plenty of clothes to rummage through). Go to  the Convent  and explore the touring exhibitions and old artefacts, then take a five-minute drive over to the spa town of Hepburn Springs . Rug up warmly and go for a bracing walk in Mineral Springs Reserve, and bring a water bottle   – you can fill it with naturally fizzy mineral water, absolutely free.

For the ultimate in cosy relaxation, stay at the Clifftop at Hepburn  (pictured above). Light the fire, pour yourself a warming beverage and take in the breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows. 

If you do just one thing...   Go for a nice long soak at Hepburn Spa and Bathhouse . There are heated, chlorinated pools, a magnesium salt bath, a spa couch bath and an aromatherapy sauna. Guaranteed to chase away winter blues.

Mornington Peninsula

Yes, the Mornington Peninsula is beachy, but that does not mean it's only good in temperate climes. The Mornington Peninsula is as associated with hot water and long, relaxing soaks as Daylesford, and there are also plenty of wineries, produce-led restaurants and cosy fires here, too. 

Winter calls for rib-sticking food, and 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 . Luckily the funky design allowed for a roaring open fire. 

It’s often packed with visitors, but the  Peninsula Hot Springs  (pictured) is definitely worth a visit to warm you up. There are dozens of pools of varying heat, plus private pools if you'd like a bit more space to yourself. If you're up for a bit of an adventure, rug up and visit  Enchanted Adventure Garden , where you can lose yourself in a cool hedge maze.

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...  Book yourself a treatment or private bath at the  Peninsula Hot Springs . It's luxe, but it's worth it.

Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine makes for a lovely summer escape, with beaches and watersports beckoning, but there are also plenty of open fires and even a whisky distillery that makes it perfect for colder months.

Feel like splashing some cash this winter? The degustation-only Igni will bring some culinary mystery to your stay, with a produce-led, ever-changing menu. But for us, winter is all about warming soups, perhaps none more warming than ramen.

Check out Sober Ramen in Geelong for rich, silky broth, perfectly cooked noodles and the cosy, satisfying feeling that comes from eating only just a tiny bit too much of truly delicious comfort food.

Take your pick from some of the peninsula’s best wineries including Jack Rabbit Vineyard , Curlewis Winery , Basils Farm and Scotchmans Hill . Or for super cosy times, head to the Whiskery . 

Spend an afternoon wandering around Geelong Gallery , which has a pretty impressive permanent collection as well as an ever-changing array of fascinating temporary exhibitions.

If you want to stay the night, you can go all out at the French chateau-looking Campbell Point . For a more boutique stay, try the Nest Point Lonsdale , where you'll have your own snug little pod.

If you do one thing… Head to Advance Mussel Supply in Portarlington for fresh, fat mussels and Angasi oysters, which are native to the waters of the Bellarine. Everyone knows oysters are best in winter when summer's milky sweetness turns into a briny snap.

Yarra Valley

Sometimes we forget that there's a world-class wine region right on our doorstep, but the Yarra Valley beckons at all times of the year. In the summer months, it's packed with tourists, but in winter those world-class wineries turn up the charm (and their fireplaces) to invite locals to sip and savour.

Oakridge Wines is a family-owned winery in Yarra Valley that is gaining renown for its restaurant. The kitchen, which is headed by executive chef Aaron Brodie, showcases some of the best produce of the region alongside native Australian ingredients. 

It is a wine region, after all, so you can't really go wrong. We particularly love Helen and Joey Estate and Pimpernell Vineyards , and here are 13 of the best Yarra Valley wineries .

No deso? No worries. Book a tour of the valley's wineries , and leave the driving to the professionals while you concentrate on what matters: tasting.

The beautiful Balgownie Estate and Spa has on-site luxury accommodation, and the best rooms have spa baths that look out over the vines. If that's not enough relaxation, you can also book in with the Natskin spa on the premises. We recommend the very special Rasul treatment for couples, which is a two-hour experience that includes a massage, a salt scrub and a steam bath in a dimly lit room with pretty twinkling lights in the ceiling.

If you do one thing… Winter is a great time to see the native animals at Healesville Sanctuary without the hordes of visitors. Put on a beanie, grab a KeepCup of coffee and make an afternoon of it.

Or hit the road to one of these spots

The best road trips from Melbourne

Don't just read about Melbourne getaways... get out and try one! These day trips from Melbourne are paved with cool things to see and do, and driving means you won't miss a thing along the way. Just choose your direction and hit the road. 

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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

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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Soak up some incredible Victorian views on these overnight treks.

Melbourne might be one of Australia's most exciting cities, but it's what lies outside of its limits that'll really knock your socks off. No more than a few hours drive from the hulking glass towers of the CBD, you'll find that the Garden State is home to an incredibly diverse landscape of pristine coastlines, rugged mountain ranges, sprawling hillsides and hidden valleys — all of which offer some truly fantastic hikes. If you feel like you've reached the point where you could walk through the alleyways of Melbourne blindfolded, it's time to look beyond the city limits.

Here are five stellar overnight hikes you can embark on near Melbourne — and where to camp along the way. Most are achievable with an average level of fitness, but be sure to review any trail thoroughly before heading off. You'll also want to stay tuned to any Parks Victoria updates regarding track closures. Once that's all done, dust off those hiking boots and head out of town for an energising nature getaway.

FALLS TO HOTHAM ALPINE CROSSING, ALPINE NATIONAL PARK

Set 2000 metres above sea level, this 37-kilometre hike provides every opportunity to completely unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. From lush native wildlife to tranquil valleys and riverside wetlands, the high plains are a treasure trove of scenic beauty and crisp mountain air. While it's not the toughest walk in the state, you'll need a moderate level of fitness for some of the steeper parts; but fear not, there are also plenty of easy sections to balance it out. As a point-to-point track, it can be started from either end, though we recommend setting out from Falls Creek and towards Mount Hotham.

While the trek is doable with one overnight stay, more leisurely hikers might consider doing it in two and the track is well set up for this. From the trailhead, it's roughly 14 kilometres to the Cope Hut Campsite and then another 14 kilometres to the Dibbins Hut Campsite. Want to take things a little easier? Alpine Nature Experience offers a three-night curated hike of the crossing , including hot showers and G&Ts.

Wilsons Prom, Garry Moore for Visit Victoria

EASTERN CIRCUIT, WILSONS PROMONTORY NATIONAL PARK

Every person and their dog has heard of the Wilsons Promontory 's eastern circuit, and that's because it's an absolute ripper of a walk. It forms part of the Southern Prom Circuit , beginning at the Telegraph Saddle car park; the 36.5-kilometre hike featuring a stunning and unmistakably Australian combination of rolling hills, curious wildlife and secluded beaches with clear turquoise waters.

Brian Doecke/Wikimedia.

LAKE TALI KARNG HIDDEN LAKE CIRCUIT, ALPINE NATIONAL PARK

Part of the Alpine National Park near Licola, the Lake Tali Karng Hidden Lake Circuit looks just like a landscape painting — only it's real life. Set in the Victorian Alps and fed by the snow-melt waters of the Wellington Plains, the lake is approximately 14 kilometres from your hike's starting point at McFarlane's Saddle on Moroka Road. Along the way, you'll enjoy an awe-inspiring combination of snow gum forests, towering trees and grassy plateaus. Don't forget that the land you're on is sacred to the Gunaikurnai people of Gippsland, so please be respectful of their rules and refrain from camping at the lake itself. Instead, you can stay overnight at the serene Nyimba Camp, situated two-thirds of the way along the trail and around four kilometres from the water.

Visit Victoria.

THE BEERIPMO WALK, MOUNT COLE STATE FOREST

Offering mesmerising views from Mount Langi Ghiran all the way across to the Grampians and the Western Plains, the Beeripmo Walk is a winding 21-kilometre hike through impressively tall forests, trickling waterfalls and vibrant fern gullies. An hour from Ballarat and completed over two days, this trek is a perfect starting point for experienced bushwalkers looking to graduate to something a little more challenging. If you're really lucky, you might be treated to a few wildlife sightings of monarch butterflies, wallabies and even wild echidnas. For your overnight stay, choose between the ever popular Beeripmo Campground (around seven kilometres from your starting point), or venture a little further to the Mugwamp Campground. Either way, expect stunning views of the night sky, with some of the brightest stars you'll ever see.

Cafuego, via Flickr

THE BURCHELL TRAIL, BRISBANE RANGES NATIONAL PARK

Just over a one-hour drive from Melbourne, the Burchell Trail is a 40-kilometre hike that takes you from the north end to the south of the Brisbane Ranges National Park. The historic ghost town of Steiglitz (which, at its gold mining peak in the 1860s, was home to over 1500 people), and a vast array of native critters and flora are just a few of the sights you can expect as you traverse the rugged landscape. The trail is linear, so you'll either need to complete it as a circuit by doubling back the way you came, or arrange for alternative transport to ferry your tired legs back to your car. There are various campsites along the route, including Boar Gully in the north. Advance bookings are required.

Top Image: Wilsons Promontory National Park, Visit Victoria. Mt Hotham, North East Victoria Tourism.

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14 Fabulous Road trips from Melbourne

These road trips from Melbourne are perfect if you are looking for places to visit near Melbourne by car, whether you have a day or a week! We have arranged the recommended trips by distance from the city centre so you can choose one that suits the time you have available. Regardless of which you choose all offer you a chance to experience a different side of Victoria and its beautiful and varied landscape.

Yarra Valley

Macedon ranges, mornington peninsula, phillip island, great otway national park, wilsons promontory, mount buller, halls gap, the grampians, gippsland lakes, great alpine road.

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Road trips close to Melbourne City Centre

These first few are perfect if you are looking for short road trips from Melbourne . Whether for a day trip or an overnight stay that you can reach in just an hour or two these are all worthy choices day out of the city.

Distance from Melbourne – 55 km

A 2-day Yarra Valley road trip is a perfect weekend escape from Melbourne. You don’t have to be a wine lover to enjoy the Yarra Valley region, plus it’s very family-friendly!

Start with a stop at Lilydale Lakes for a stroll around the lake. Then, head to Badger Creek Blueberry Winery. They also have delicious pear ciders and you can sample both on a tasting paddle.

If you’re keen to sample more wineries, don’t miss Yering Station Winery, one of the oldest wineries in Victoria. They have an impressive tasting room and a restaurant overlooking the Dandenong Ranges.

Badgers Brook Winery is another great option that may be the most kid-friendly winery in Australia, with retro playground equipment galore!

Other recommended stops are the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery where you can pick up handmade chocolates or dine in the restaurant, and Yarra Valley Dairy for a cheese tasting.

If you want wildlife experiences, feed alpacas at The Big Bouquet Flower Farm and Alpaca Stud or visit Healesville Sanctuary to get up close with native Australian animals.

The Yarra Valley Lodge is the perfect base for your stay, overlooking a golf course with beautiful sunset views and kangaroos everywhere.

Contributed by Holly Connors from Four Around The World

Distance from Melbourne – 60 km

A wonderful road trip and getaway from Melbourne is a visit to the Macedon Ranges. It may only be about an hour away from Melbourne, but it’s a different world entirely.

The Macedon Ranges are a collection of high-elevation rocky mountains and forests, giving way to a cooler climate. This is a getaway surrounded by nature. 

Spend your mornings hiking through forests and up to beautiful vistas such as Mount Macedon itself, Camel’s Hump, or the famous ancient volcano, Hanging Rock, which is known for the story of the mysterious disappearance of schoolgirls in the early 1900s and documented in the film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock.’

Macedon Regional Parks is a true highlight, with many walking trails and even a waterfall in the Tony Clarke Recreation Reserve.

Spend your afternoon here visiting wineries in the area for tastings – some favourites are Hanging Rock Winery (with its amazing sculptures), Hesket Estate, Mount Macedon Winery, and Mount Towrong Vineyard.

Stay in Macedon itself or the nearby town of Woodend, which is equipped with more cafes and pubs and a golf course too.

For a true getaway, stay at the Macedon Ranges Hotel and Spa for a stylish retreat with treatments available, before returning to the city for the  best Melbourne brunches.

Contributed by Kimmie from Adventures and Sunsets

Distance from Melbourne – 75 km

A road trip to the Mornington Peninsula, just 90 minutes away from the city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, gastronomic delights, and unique experiences. An easy drive from Melbourne, this scenic route follows the coastline and presents breathtaking views of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and rolling hills.

We recommend you spend an hour or two strolling the Millionaires Walk , a favourite among the locals, this path allows you to take a glimpse into the backyards and gardens of the mansions that line the waterfront.

Foodies will find the Mornington Peninsula enjoy the thriving culinary scene. I highly recommend you add a couple of the region’s famous wineries, with wines crafted from the region’s cool-climate vineyards.

If you plan to book an overnight stay, I highly recommend the picturesque Jackalope Hotel. This luxury boutique hotel offers stylish and contemporary rooms, breathtaking vineyard views, and exceptional amenities.

To complete your Mornington Peninsula experience, visit the renowned Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove. Not only can you sample their outstanding wines, but you can also explore the picturesque grounds, indulge in a gourmet picnic, or wander through the sculpture park.

Other highly-recommended attractions include the Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can unwind in natural geothermal pools, and the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

A 2-day road trip to the Mornington Peninsula presents a blend of natural beauty and food and wine destinations. With its proximity to Melbourne, the region is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for a memorable and indulgent getaway.

Distance from Melbourne – 115 km

Melbourne to Daylesford is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, which makes it a great location to visit outside of Melbourne. 

There are many reasons to visit Daylesford, but most people spend time here relaxing and enjoying some downtime in many of the spa and wellness retreats in the area. Why? Because the spas here are full of rich mineral thermal waters that include indoor pools and saunas. 

Day 1 After checking into the historical Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs, spend your day visiting the many drinkable natural Springs during the day and then bathing in pure luxury in the afternoon at your hotel. Stop for a pre-dinner drink at the Argus Bar and Lounge before dinner in the Dining Room.

Day 2, take the morning slowly by enjoying a gorgeous breakfast at your hotel. Then, head over and enjoy the morning checking out the local products and produce at the Sunday markets; spend the afternoon indulging in a late lunch at one of the many little quaint cafes in the area. Before dinner, wander the many antique and vintage boutiques. 

Day 3, Today, explore the area by heading to Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and enjoying a ride on the heritage train at the Daylesford Spa Country Railway before returning to Melbourne. 

Suggested by Paula from Truly Expat Travel

Located a short drive from Melbourne, Ballarat is a charming city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty. What I love most about Ballarat is its rich gold rush heritage. Walking through the streets, you can still feel the echoes of the past and imagine the excitement that filled the air during the gold rush era.

One of my favorite things to do in Ballarat is to visit Sovereign Hill. It’s an open-air museum that beautifully recreates an 1850s gold mining town. While walking the recreated streets of old Ballarat and interacting with the staff who act as locals and work the shops and businesses.

Try your hand at panning for gold, or even take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a fun experience that truly brings history to life.

If you are travelling with kids, add a stop at Kryal Castle, a replicate of a medieval castle that offers visitors a unique experience of stepping back in time to the Middle Ages.

Take a castle tour, watch a Jousting Tournament or a falconry show or if you prefer to get involved then sign up for Knight school or try your hand at archery. Once you have had your fun, sit down to a medieval banquet.

Lastly, don’t miss a visit to the Art Gallery of Ballarat. It’s Australia’s oldest regional art gallery and houses a remarkable collection of Australian art. You’ll find everything from Indigenous artworks to contemporary masterpieces.

When it comes to where to sleep for a couple’s getaway I recommend Craig’s Royal Hotel. It’s a historic establishment that exudes elegance and charm. The rooms are beautifully appointed, and the service is impeccable. Staying there feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

Longer drives from Melbourne

The next group might be considered by many locals to be a long drive from Melbourne, but thanks to the compact size of Victoria it’s really not far at all

Distance from Melbourne – 140 km

It takes about two hours to get to Phillip Island from Central Melbourne and there is plenty to do once you’re there.

Right before heading over the bridge to Phillip Island, there is a daily pelican feeding at San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op. The feeding occurs at lunchtime and you can get an order of fish and chips before driving to Phillip Island.

Nobbie’s Lookout not only has beautiful views and a nice boardwalk, but you might even see penguins hanging out underneath the boardwalk during the day.

To guarantee a penguin sighting, attend the Penguin Parade that takes place at sunset . Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins in the world.

You might also like to take a scenic flight over the area or a sunset cruise if you prefer something a little less adventurous

Phillip Island is also home to a chocolate factory, Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate. Entry includes a behind-the-scenes tour, learning about the history of chocolate, interactive games, and chocolate samples.

While there are plenty of things to do on Phillip Island including spending time on the beach, nature walks, and  fun things to do with kids , if you are looking to explore more, Churchill Island is a small island off of Phillip Island with a 19th-century working farm.

NRMA Phillip Island Holiday Park has beachfront camping and pet-friendly cabins that sleep up to 6 guests.  

Contributed by Lanie from  Make More Adventures

Distance from Melbourne – 162 km

Great Otway National Park is a nature-filled road trip destination, just a few hours’ drive from Melbourne. This beautiful park is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, a stunning coastline and an abundance of  Australian wildlife,  too. So no matter what you’re looking for from a road trip, this national park has something to offer everyone. 

To fully explore the park, consider spending the night in the area. One of the best options is to stay in one of the many cosy cabins or lodges that are nestled in the heart of the forest.

Our personal favourites are the Sky Pods, located on private land shared with native wildlife that will hop past your window as you relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. All the accommodation here offers the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, with modern amenities, luxurious touches and a view overlooking the ocean. 

Make sure to visit the lush rainforests and spot some of the park’s native wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and a variety of bird species on a guided tour. Another popular activity is hiking the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, which takes you on a breathtaking journey through the forest canopy.

Contributed by Anna from Really Wildlife

Distance from Melbourne – 185 km

A road trip to Walhalla from Melbourne is a great way to explore a stunning and less visited part of Victoria! Plus –  Walhalla is Australia’s spookiest town  so this is an incredibly unique place and certainly a trip you’ll remember! In addition, the scenery along the way is absolutely stunning!

A historic gold mining town where time has stopped, Walhalla is incredibly charming if not somewhat mysterious. Nestled up in the Victoria Hills in Baw Baw National Park, it’s the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. It takes around 2.5 hours to drive to Walhalla from Melbourne, so it makes for a really convenient weekend trip.

Take your pick between goldmine tours, spooky ghost tours or strolling down the perfectly preserved Main Street, full of rich history and heritage. The Walhalla Goldfields Railway tour takes you on a scenic ride through the spectacular hills and valleys of Gippsland and is also worth doing! In addition, there are many lovely walks to do nearby.

If you fancy staying overnight the Walhalla Star Hotel makes a great choice.

On the drive back to Melbourne, you’ll drive through Moe, so you may want to stop off at the Old Gippstown Heritage Park. It’s certainly not as authentic as Walhalla, but it’s a great place to visit if you want to gain a deeper insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Contributed by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Distance from Melbourne – 223 km

Echuca, is a charming town on the Murray River in North East Victoria. Leaving Melbourne on the Northern Highway is a 2.5-hour drive to reach this gorgeous border town, We recommend checking into the local  Echuca Quest apartments which are centrally located near the shops, restaurants and Port of Echuca.

After checking in, begin exploring  Echuca  with a visit to the historic Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. We recommend booking a short trip on a paddle steamer for the next day to see how this mighty river was a life blood to the area.

Before dinner, take a stroll down High Street, the main street lined with boutique shops and galleries so you can admire the amazing heritage buildings.

Have dinner at one of the local eateries like The Mill or pop over the border to the Moama Bowling Club before calling it a night.

On the second day, head to the Sweet Meadow for breakfast, then explore the Port area further. Jump on the paddle steamer cruise that you booked the day before where you will go a few kilometres upriver, take in the scenery and learn about the area’s rich history around Echuca.

The area is known for its Silo art and the Echuca Moama Silo art trails provide a perfect way to spend the afternoon. The towns of Colbinabbin, Rochester and Picola are stunning and well worth the drive. If you love animals, then a stop at the Kyabram Fauna Park is a must.

In the evening, take a short walk from your accommodation at Quest and dine at the Curry Club. This Indian Restaurant serves some of the best curry dishes you will find anywhere.

Before returning to Melbourne on the third day, make sure to visit any missed attractions or explore nearby highlights like the National Holden Museum, which has over 40 classic Holdens on display

If cars are not your thing, the Great Aussie Beer Shed might be a better choice. Home to all things Australiana, including collections of beer cans, old Aussie household items, farm machinery, and cars. It really is a wide collection of something for everyone in the ultimate man cave. Enjoy your memorable trip to the Echuca area.

Suggested by Bec from Explore Victoria

Distance from Melbourne – 220 km

A road trip to Wilsons Promontory is definitely one of the best road trip from Melbourne if you’re looking for wildlife, beaches, sand dunes and mountains. You’ll get a bit of everything on this amazing road trip. 

The Big Drift, Squeaky Beach, Mount Oberon Summit and the Prom Wildlife Walk are the  best things to do in Wilsons Promontory . 

Big Drift is a sand dune hidden in a forest. Walking through the forest you would never guess you’re so close to a massive dune. But then the ground slowly starts to change from soil to sand and soon after you’re rewarded with an amazing sand dune overlooking the surrounding forest. 

Squeaky Beach is, as the name suggests, a beach that squeaks. You can stomp on the sand and actually make it squeak! The beach isn’t just squeaky though, it’s also really beautiful. It’s a great place for a swim or a picnic. 

Check out this cruise to Skull Rock for something completely different

Mount Oberon Summit is a scenic hike. From the top, you have the best view of the Wilsons Promontory National Park. 

The best place to spend the night on this road trip is the Tidal River Campground. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your stay, as you might be able to see a wallaby hop around or a wombat sniffing your tent in the evening. If you didn’t see enough wildlife during your stay, you can also try your luck at the Prom Wildlife Walk, a short nature walk in an area highly populated by Australian wildlife. This tour is a great option if you don’t want to hike alone .

Suggested by Tina from Veganderlust

Distance 235km from Melbourne

One of the most picturesque road trips to take from Melbourne is to Mount Buller. Being the closest snow resort to Melbourne, Mount Buller makes a perfect weekend getaway. Part of Australian Alpine National Park, the resort is around 3 hour’s drive from the city centre via Mansfield town.

Note: two things to note; all cars staying overnight at the resort must have snow chains and the last petrol station is at Mirimbah town.

Even though Mount Buller is perfect to visit all around the year, the ski season is between the months of June and August.

There are a few routes to get to Mount Buller from Melbourne. My preferred one is through the roads of Yarra Valley and Healesville regions. This allows you to indulge in some of the most amazing wines in the country, or perhaps buy a few bottles for your visit.  

As Mount Buller is a ski resort, we recommend you stay within the resort itself. They have a variety of options, ranging from budget to luxury. We loved this 2 bedroom apartment . It has amazing views and can sleep up to six people.

Skiing and snowboarding are top choices for daytime fun here. If you are not into adventure sports the resort also offers plenty of less strenuous activities such as history hunt tours, sculpture park walks, and indoor sports and air zone areas.

From Raksha Nagaraj at Solo Passport

Distance from Melbourne – 260km

It only takes three hours to get from Melbourne to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and the township of Halls Gap which is a great base for exploring the Grampians best spots.

The most direct route is through Ballarat where you could stop for a day to visit Sovereign Hill, the gold mining pioneer village.

On your first day, you can hit the walking tracks and check out some waterfalls and lookouts. See water tumbling over Mackenzie Falls, amazing views from Reed Lookout and incredible rock formations at the Pinnacle. Exploring the rock pools at Venus Baths is great fun too.

Take it a bit easier the next day. Start with brunch at one of the Stoney Creek cafes or bakery then try your luck at Halls Gap mini golf – one of the toughest mini golf courses in Australia.

In the afternoon, meet the animals at the fantastic Halls Gap Zoo or take lunch to the picturesque Zumsteins. Picnic where you can spot emus and wallabies on the walk to pretty Fish Falls.

Breeze Holiday Park i n Halls Gap is a great place to stay, it is so centrally located and has excellent facilities. There is no bad time to go to the Grampians. In winter the falls have lots of water, go in spring for wildflowers, autumn for great hiking weather (there are plenty of family-friendly walks) and summer to kayak on Lake Bellfield.

Contributed by Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

Distance from Melbourne- 277km

The Gippsland Lakes are one of the most popular summer tourist destinations in Victoria. Located 3 hours east of Melbourne on the Princes Highway, it is one of the biggest lake systems in Australia. Home to numerous types of native flora and fauna, you will love your time on the Lakes.

Most people base themselves in the town of Lakes Entrance, which is considered the capital of the lakes system. It is the largest town, featuring hotels, caravan parks, and apartments for all budgets.

Lakes Entrance is a good base for a road trip, and we suggest booking into the Esplanade Resort and Spa for a few nights. You can have fun on the 90-Mile Beach or in the calmer waters of Cunningham Arm.

We always say when you’re by the sea eat seafood and the Boathouse floating restaurant has great views and even better seafood. The local fishing fleet brings in fresh fish daily. If you have a sweet tooth, head to the local Riviera Ice Creamery. Homemade ice cream made from fresh farm milk awaits you in a variety of inviting flavours, or pop into Big Bears Donuts.

Smaller towns such as Paynesville and Metung are worth visiting on the second day. Both these towns are within easy reach of Lakes in under 30 kilometres. In Paynesville, you can visit the nearby Raymond Island Koala Walk where you will see koalas in the wild. Jump on the free ferry that takes you over the island and enjoy a peaceful walk spotting koalas.

Metung is known for its small village feel and popular pub on the waterfront. In the warmer months, there is no better place to sit down and relax than at the table on the waterfront. Grab a meal, then head to the newly opened Metung Hot Springs to bathe in the waters or have a spa treatment.

The Metung Hot Spring was created by the team behind the famou s Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs.

On your last day, head over to the 90-mile beach and do the Entrance walk along the beach that takes you to the point where the ocean meets the lakes. You may see the local Burrunan Dolphins playing in the waters.

Head to Wyanga Park Winery for lunch and grab a few bottles of local wine before heading back to the attractions in Melbourne .

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Distance from Melbourne – 290 km

One of the best three-day road trips from Melbourne is driving along the Great Alpine Road . This scenic journey offers a diverse range of attractions, from world-class vineyards to breathtaking viewpoints.

Day 1: On your first day, make your way out to the city of Wangaratta, which marks the starting point of the Great Alpine Road. From here on out, your days are going to be about local produce, historic architecture, and hiking in nature. 

From Wangaratta, journey through the charming gourmet region of Milawa, where you can jump on tastings of locally-produced delights, like cheeses, olives, mustards, and wine.

You’ll venture next to some of the state’s most impressive gold rush-era towns. Beechworth and Yackandandah are the two that are most worth spending time in, with their well-preserved buildings dating back to the mid-1800s.

End your day in the peaceful town of Myrtleford, which makes for an ideal overnight base.

Day 2: After breakfast at Cafe Fez, spend your morning tackling the best walks in Mount Buffalo National Park. Here, you can hike to impressive waterfalls, marvel at dramatic rock formations, and even climb to the summit of Mount Buffalo. The best short walks in the park include the Eurobin Falls Track and the Gorge Heritage Walk. 

Stop in the bustling town of Bright for lunch, opting for the excellent pizzas in the sunny beer garden at Bright Brewery. 

In the afternoon, cruise over the highest part of the Great Alpine Road, at an elevation of 1,800 metres. There are so many viewpoints here, but if you only stop at one, make it Danny’s Lookout. It offers the best views of the Victorian Alps. 

Spend the night in Omeo, another historic gold mining town that’s home to one of the best pubs in the area: the Golden Age Hotel.

Day 3: The main attraction on day three is the Buchan Caves Reserve, a collection of impressive limestone caves that are said to be some of the best in Australia. Aim to spend two hours exploring the Royal Cave and Fairy Cave. 

Bairnsdale will be your final stop on the Great Alpine Road, and what a wonderful place to finish. Spend an hour strolling alongside the waterfront, devour some fresh fish and chips, and then make your return to Melbourne. Contributed by Lauren from Everything Victoria

Where will you go next?

We hope you have found some road trip inspiration from these suggestions of place to visit near Melbourne by car. If you are exploring South Australia, check out 5 fantastic road trips we did last year.

If it’s your first time driving in Australia, read these driving tips for Australian roads put together by Charles who has spent the last 12 years working as a professional driver.

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• Number of domestic overnight visitors Melbourne, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Over 3.6 million domestic overnight visitors traveled to Victoria's capital, Melbourne, Australia to visit friends and family in the year ended December 2023. The second most prevalent reason for making trips to Melbourne among domestic overnight visitors was for holiday purposes.

Number of domestic overnight visitors to Melbourne, Australia from 2018 to 2023, by purpose of visit (in 1,000s)

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Statistics on " Domestic tourism in Australia "

• Domestic visitor contribution to direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2014-2023
• Domestic tourism share of direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2014 to 2023
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2014-2023
• Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2014-2023
• Leading destinations of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023
• Leading destinations for domestic overnight visitor expenditure Australia 2023
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Leading destinations of domestic visitors on day trips Australia 2023
• Leading destinations for domestic day visitor expenditure Australia 2023
• Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
• Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic overnight visitors NSW Australia 2022, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure NSW Australia 2022, by region visited
• Number of domestic overnight visitors NSW Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Sydney, Australia 2013-2022, by purpose
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Queensland Australia 2023, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Queensland Australia 2023, by region visited
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Queensland Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic visitors Brisbane, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Brisbane, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Victoria Australia 2023, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Victoria Australia 2023, by region visited
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Victoria Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Western Australia 2023, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Western Australia 2023, by region visited
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Western Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic visitors Perth, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Perth, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose
• Number of domestic overnight visitors South Australia 2023, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure South Australia 2023, by region visited
• Number of domestic overnight visitors South Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic visitors Adelaide, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Adelaide, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Tasmania Australia 2023, by region visited
• Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Tasmania Australia 2014-2023
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Tasmania Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Number of domestic visitors Hobart, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Number of domestic overnight visitors Hobart, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Other statistics that may interest you Domestic tourism in Australia

• Basic Statistic Direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2006-2023
• Basic Statistic Domestic visitor contribution to direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2014-2023
• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism share of direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2014 to 2023
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2014-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2014-2023

Domestic overnight trips

• Premium Statistic Leading destinations of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023
• Premium Statistic Leading destinations for domestic overnight visitor expenditure Australia 2023
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit

Domestic day trips

• Premium Statistic Leading destinations of domestic visitors on day trips Australia 2023
• Premium Statistic Leading destinations for domestic day visitor expenditure Australia 2023
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit

Domestic tourism in New South Wales

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors NSW Australia 2022, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight visitor expenditure NSW Australia 2022, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors NSW Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Sydney, Australia FY 2014-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Sydney, Australia 2013-2022, by purpose

Domestic tourism in Queensland

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• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Queensland Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Queensland Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Brisbane, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Brisbane, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Domestic tourism in Victoria

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Victoria Australia 2023, by region visited
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• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Victoria Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Melbourne, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Melbourne, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Domestic tourism in Western Australia

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Western Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Western Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Western Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Perth, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Perth, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Domestic tourism in South Australia

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors South Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight visitor expenditure South Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors South Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Adelaide, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Adelaide, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

Domestic tourism in Tasmania

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Tasmania Australia 2023, by region visited
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight visitor expenditure Tasmania Australia 2014-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Tasmania Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors Hobart, Australia 2018-2023, by type of trip
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Hobart, Australia 2018-2023, by purpose

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