Day Trips from Melbourne
On the hunt for the best day trips from Melbourne, Australia? This local guide takes you through all the top attractions and activities in Victoria. So, let’s get into it!
Snow-laced mountains, sun-drenched surf beaches and world-class wineries… you name it, and Victoria has got it. Anchoring southeastern Australia, this corner of the country is oozing with charm.
Whether you’re interested in culinary delights, cultural experiences or quaint countryside towns, there’s an exciting expanse of day trips to choose from. Plus, it can be one of the best ways to mix up any standard sightseeing experience. So once you’ve seen the best things to do in Melbourne, add one of these 19 day trips to your Aussie bucket list.
Victoria is famous for its rugged coastal drives, drool-worthy food and wine and heart-pumping sports events. Museums, monuments and must-see sites steal the spotlight inside Melbourne’s CBD, and Victoria’s most ethereal experiences are all within a few hour’s drive.
As the southernmost state in mainland Australia, you’ll find everything from adrenaline-inducing to awe-inspiring.
Best Day Trips from Melbourne
Looking for an epic Melbourne itinerary? Combine this guide on how to spend 2 Days in Melbourne with one of these top-rated day trips!
With the perfect balance of street art, culture, cuisine and coffee, this is the ultimate recipe for success.
You’ll say g’day to kangaroos, soak in mineral-rich hot springs, lock lips with cool-climate wines and a whole lot more! So without further ado, here are the top day trips from Melbourne, Australia.
19. Devil Bend
Devil Bend is a personal favourite of mine. It’s off the beaten track, and if you ask any Melbournian about it, the chances are they have no idea what you’re talking about.
Located 55km southeast of the CBD, the Devilbend Natural Features Reserve is a summertime getaway from the godsend. Situated on the Mornington Peninsula, this spot is ideal if you want to ditch the big city crowds.
Devil Bend is a lowland forest and reservoir that’s popular among boat enthusiasts, walk-aholics, cyclers and fishing fanatics. It’s also well-known among daredevils as a cliff-jumping hot spot. Test your limits and get your adrenaline pumping as you take the plunge in this cliff jumper’s oasis! There are simple jumps that begin around 3 metres and higher jumps that soar up to 17 metres.
18. Nagambie
Situated in character-packed Goulburn Valley, Nagambie is just a short two-hour drive from Melbourne. Hugging the cusp of Lake Nagambie, it’s well-known for its water sports scene and wealth of wineries.
Straddling scenic beauty, it’s definitely the destination to be outdoors. Lake Nagambie is popular during the summer season, with canoeing, fishing, rowing, boating and swimming attracting many visitors.
Admire the bird life in the Goulburn River or lock lips with some of the finest wine in the region. Spend an afternoon dipping in and out of the local breweries and wineries and don’t miss spots like Tahbilk and Mitchelton.
17. Heathcote
Heathcote is home to historic buildings, high-quality wine and a huge haul of hiking opportunities. It’s especially popular during the autumn months when fall foliage paints the scene red.
If you’re looking for the best day trips from Melbourne by public transport, Heathcote is a great option.
It’s only 90 minutes from Melbourne and offers insight into the region’s culture, nature and history. Dating back to the gold rush era, you’ll encounter age-old sites like the courthouse and railway station.
Heathcote houses over 40 vineyards and wineries, each boasting a bounty of boozed-up experiences. Spend an afternoon indulging in a wine tasting and pair it perfectly with a gourmet culinary experience.
Nature lovers, rejoice! Autumn flaunts the vibrant hues of foliage season, with the Valley of Liquid Ambers stealing the spotlight.
Another top spot for travellers is the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve. Hike the tracks, explore the surroundings and admire this unique landscape resulting from gold-mining efforts in the 19th century.
16. Geelong
As Victoria’s second-largest city, Geelong has history, attractions and quirky finds aplenty. Known for its old buildings, waterfront esplanade and Art Deco boardwalk, this place is sprawling in the summer season.
As one of the best day trips from Melbourne by train, Geelong boasts the convenience of an easy escape. With gardens, museums and an art trail, there’s an abundance of activities to choose from.
Peer down at the beach from the top of the Ferris wheel, spot the esplanade-lined Baywalk Bollards and splash around in the sea bath at the Eastern Beach. Sip morning tea inside the Geelong Botanic Gardens and admire the collection in the Geelong Gallery. Get your history fix inside the Geelong Gaol and dive into the rich history and exhibitions.
15. Healesville
Located in the world-famous Yarra Valley, Healesville is carved with charm at every end. This picturesque town is pinned for its gastronomy scene and postcard-worthy landscapes.
The major tourist attraction is the Healesville Sanctuary, a bushland wildlife experience that’s just one hour from Melbourne’s CBD. If you want to see some native Australian animals, this is your chance to get up close to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas and more.
Dabble in the diversity of experiences at Healesville’s wineries, like Coldstream Hills, Domaine Chandon and Rochford Wines. Get informed, be entertained and maybe even a little bit tipsy as you taste local wines. Be sure to pack your appetite for a classic Aussie pub meal at the Healesville Hotel. For a dose of greenery, frolic around the fern gullies in Badger Weir Park.
14. Castlemaine
Victoria’s coastline undoubtedly steals the spotlight, but the inland boasts an idyllic inventory that’s just waiting to be explored. Famed for its artsy vibes and creative exhibitions, Castlemaine sits smack bang in central Victoria.
Woven with quite a reputation for its cultural festivals, Castlemaine is known as a haven among artists, musicians, writers and other creatives. Get inspired by The Mill and snap up a few vintage pieces at the markets. Keep your eyes peeled for clothing, art, furniture and other goods!
Immerse yourself in the Castlemaine Art Gallery as you peruse the panoply of ceramics, jewellery, paintings and textiles. Wrap up the day and listen to live music at a local gig in Theatre Royal, The Taproom and The Bridge Hotel.
13. Wilsons Prom
Wilsons Promontory National Park is woven with a world of natural wonder, walking tracks and wildlife. Locally known as Wilsons Prom, there are over 50,000 hectares to be explored.
Well-known among Victorians, ‘The Prom’ is easily one of the top day trips from Melbourne by car. This coastal wilderness area clings to the southern fringe of Australia’s mainland.
You’ll encounter bright orange-coloured boulders, granite-studded hilltops and azure blue water that splashes onto powdery white sand.
Wind through the hiking trails and discover the rich array of lush fern gullies and native flora and fauna. Sunbake on the beaches, roll down the windswept sand dunes and spot wallabies and wombats.
12. Bendigo
Nestled just two hours north-west of Melbourne, Bendigo’s legacy was built upon the 1850s gold mining legacy.
Flaunting grandiose Victorian architecture and history-packed buildings, these streets will take you back in time. Step inside the Bendigo Post Office and learn about the hardships at the Central Deborah Gold Mine.
Once you’ve got your dose of history, head into the contemporary Bendigo Art Gallery to see the creative exhibitions. Replenish your senses in the thriving food and wine scene or indulge in a picnic in the Bendigo Botanic Gardens. Celebrate the city’s Chinese heritage as you appreciate the artefacts and artwork at the Golden Dragon Museum.
For something a little different, mix up your sightseeing with a pot-making workshop at Bendigo Pottery.
11. Dandenong Ranges & Puffing Billy
The Dandenong Ranges and Puffing Billy boasts something to keep the whole gang entertained on your day trip from Melbourne. Teeming with towering forests, free-roaming wildlife and heart-pumping activities, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do.
The Dandenong Ranges are a nature lover’s oasis, with gardens, picnic grounds and fern-filled gullies. Highlights include the National Rhododendron Gardens, Sherbrooke Forest and Belgrave, where the 100-year-old steam train steals the show.
As one of the top day trips from Melbourne, you can enjoy a fantastic fusion of experiences. Hike the trails of the Kokoda Memorial Track, locally known as the 1000 Steps.
Not planning on renting a car? This Puffing Billy and Healesville Sanctuary tour from Melbourne has got you covered. The tour features popular attractions like the Emerald Lake, Dandenong Ranges, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, the Puffing Billy steam train and Healesville Sanctuary.
10. Victorian High Country
The Victorian High Country is a winter lover’s wonderland, but there’s a lot more on offer than just skiing and snowboarding.
Although this region is well-known for its snowfields, the scenic routes of the Victorian High Country lead to historic towns, wildflower-filled landscapes and alpine villages. Drive the Great Alpine Road and taste craft beer and wine in local breweries, cycle along the winding trails or hike through the misty mountaintops.
Learn about Aussie legend, Ned Kelly at the Old Beechworth Gaol and step back into the region’s gold rush era. Popular towns include Bright, Kinglake, Myrtleford and Alexandra. Once the wintertime falls, hit the slopes at Mount Buller, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.
9. Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is just under an hour’s drive from the CBD, making it one of the best day trips from Melbourne by car.
Surrounded by rolling hilltops, verdant vineyards and cow-covered paddocks, this region is internationally renowned for its cool-climate wines.
Sample the delectable flavours at boutique wineries like Fergusson Winery, Medhurst Wines and TarraWarra Estate.
Explore the lush greenery on foot, hit the heights on an iconic hot air balloon ride or get cultured at the TarraWarra Museum of Modern Art.
Kick the hassle of organising a designated driver and check out this Yarra Valley Wine, Gin and Chocolate Day Trip. The tour highlights the region’s top experiences and you’ll get the chance to taste everything from wine and gin to chocolate and cheese.
8. Ballarat
Nestled in the Central Highlights, Ballarat is replete with a rich history, culture and colonial-era heritage. Wine, dine and step back in time as you stroll around all the top sites like Sovereign Hill.
With everything from art galleries to a wildlife park, this town makes for one of the best day trips from Melbourne by public transport. Catch the V-Line train from Melbourne to Ballarat and you’ll arrive in under an hour. Talk about fast and furious…
This historic gold rush town is rife with regional charm and fun activities. Gather the crew and go panning for gold at Sovereign Hill, get enchanted by the medieval Kryal Castle and see Aussie animals at the Ballarat Wildlife Park.
7. Phillip Island
Phillip Island is renowned for its colony of Little Penguins, but there’s so much more than just that. Carved with a crashing coastline, endless wildlife experiences and culture-packed events, this gem is just under two hours drive from Melbourne’s CBD.
Phillip Island’s dramatic cliffs and sheltered bays boast hiking, biking and surfing opportunities aplenty. Spot migrating whales or sail out to see the seal colonies. Stick inland and peer up at koalas and birds and don’t miss one of the biggest family-friendly attractions in Victoria, the Penguin Parade.
Make the most of your time away from the bustling CBD and immerse yourself in nature on the Pyramid Rock to Berry Beach walk. This 5 km track winds through undulating hilltops and grassy trails, but the best part is arguably the stunning coastal views. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for wallabies!
For a fuss-free day trip from Melbourne, book this Phillip Island tour. With everything organised, you’ll see highlights like the Penguin Parade, the Koala Conservation Reserve and Woolamai Beach.
6. Bellarine Peninsula
The Bellarine Peninsula is often outshined by its eastern neighbour, the Mornington Peninsula. But this rugged region that’s located south-west of Melbourne does not disappoint.
Home to wineries, breezy beaches and a delicious food scene, there’s a slew of surprising finds. Go on a scavenger hunt for antiques, wander astray in the vintage stores and sit down with a book in a cosy cafe. Amp up the action in the breweries and distilleries and don’t miss hot spots like the Oakdene Vineyards and Jack Rabbit Vineyard.
Some of the most popular towns on the Bellarine Peninsula are Queenscliff, Barwon Heads, Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove and Portarlington. If you’re an underwater or marine life enthusiast, be sure to add the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park in Point Lonsdale to your bucket list.
5. Daylesford
Daylesford oozes relaxation at every angle, from the bubbling mineral springs to the tree-lined lakes. Located just an hour and a half’s drive from Melbourne’s city centre, the town boasts the perfect chance to rest and recharge.
If you’re a fan of spa treatments and relaxing massages, you’re going to love the huge haul of healing mineral springs in the area. Popular spots include the Daylesford Day Spa, Hepburn Bathhouse, Peppers Mineral Springs and The Spa at Lake House. Get pampered with a massage, soak in the rejuvenating waters and leave with baby-soft skin after enjoying the world of wellness experiences.
After making the most of your time in Victoria’s spa centre, satiate your palette in the top restaurants like The Lake House and Larder. Cap off your day in scenic spots like Wombat Hill, Lake Daylesford and Jubilee Lake.
4. Cape Schanck
Sitting on the Southern Peninsula, Cape Schanck is dotted with dramatic clifftops, fascinating stories and an iconic whitewashed lighthouse.
From the wind-swept beaches to the scenic walking trails, this area is arrayed with awe-worthy views of Bass Strait. Aside from the panoramic landscapes and mind-boggling geological rock formations, Cape Schanck has a rich European history and is known for its heritage-listed lighthouse precinct.
Highlights here include Pulpit Rock and the Devils Desk, both of which offer insight into the unique volcanic and geological gems. Hike along the 2.6km Bushrangers Bay Track or keep your eyes peeled for whales as they migrate through Bass Strait. You might get the chance to see penguins, dolphins, wallabies kangaroos and echidnas too.
3. Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is a must-see when visiting Melbourne. During the summer, it’s a hot spot for surfers, swimmers and sunbakers alike.
As one of the top day trips from Melbourne, you’ll find everything from beaches and parks to spas and wineries. And better yet, it’s an easy 90-minute drive south of Melbourne’s CBD.
Watch a sunset over Port Phillip Bay, hike the hilltops in Arthur’s Seat and go on a SUP paddle board in Sorrento or Dromana.
Pick fresh berries at the Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm, lock lips with seafood dishes in the restaurants and spend an afternoon in the world-class wineries.
Oh yeah, and did I mention the 70-something pools and the chance to get pampered at the Peninsula Hot Springs? Topped with art trails, wildlife sanctuaries and lavender gardens, the list just goes on and on.
Don’t miss a thing with this comprehensive guide on the Best Things to do in the Mornington Peninsula.
For the ultimate day trip on the Mornington Peninsula, check out this Food and Wine Tasting Trail. You’ll enjoy an entire day tasting local wine and beer in the peninsula’s wineries and breweries. Sounds pretty epic, right?
2. Grampians
The Grampians is a bucket-list-worthy destination that’s arrayed with awe-inspiring adventure and adrenaline-packed activities. Located around three hours west of Melbourne, there’s rugged hinterland and Indigenous rock art to be explored.
The Grampians National Park is part of the Greater Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape in Australia. From the incredible hiking trails and mountainous panoramas to the native wildlife and rejuvenating hot springs, this part of Victoria really does have it all.
Take a dip in MacKenzie Falls, hike to the top of Halls Gap and peer down below from the Boroka Lookout. Make the most of your time by kicking off your adventure at the Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre. Don’t miss the ancient rock art in the Billimina Shelter, Gulgurn Manja Shelter and Manja Shelter. For more information on everything you need to know, check out my in-depth guide on The Grampians.
For a hassle-free holiday in Melbourne, opt for this Grampians National Park Tour. You’ll have everything taken care of, from route planning to transport. With it all organised, you can focus on the fun side of travelling in Australia!
1. Great Ocean Road
There’s a reason why the Great Ocean Road deserves the number one spot on this list. Dowsed with a dazzling diversity of experiences, this scenic coastal route encompasses almost every quintessential Australian experience.
Whether it’s your first time visiting Australia or you’re a seasoned globetrotter, the Great Ocean Road is a must-see. As one of the top day trips from Melbourne, it’s a place that’ll have you wanting to come back for more.
This iconic Victorian route hugs the south-west coast, beginning in Torquay and finishing just before Warrnambool. Without stops, it’s roughly a four-hour drive, meaning you’ll need to plan to leave for this day trip as early as possible. Around 6 am is ideal, as you can beat the morning traffic. Trust me, the early start at an ungodly hour is so worth it!
Even if you’re not entirely keen on doing the whole route, you could tick off spots like Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and Lorne (2 hours from the CBD).
Here’s a handful of the best attractions on the Great Ocean Road:
Surf beaches in Torquay
Waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park
Beaches and shops in Lorne
Iconic landmarks in the Twelve Apostles National Park
Swimming at the Loch Ard Gorge
Coastal trails in Port Campbell
Zip-lining on an Otway Fly Zipline Tour in the Otway Ranges
To be completely honest, this list could go on and on. And I’d recommend squeezing in a weekend trip if you want to make the most of your time. Before you visit, find everything you need to know in my local guide on The Great Ocean Road.
If you can’t squeeze any extra room in your Melbourne itinerary, book this top-rated Great Ocean Road Tour. You’ll cruise through Victoria’s iconic coastline and stop at the biggest hot spots like Torquay Surf Beach, Cape Patton, Apollo Bay, the Gibson Steps, 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Best Time to Visit Victoria
The best time to visit Melbourne depends on your travel budget, personal style and preferences. Travelling in Victoria, Australia offers a wealth of experiences year-round, from the snowy slopes in Mount Hotham to surf beaches in Torquay.
The most popular time for holidays in Melbourne is during the warmer months of December, January and February. The summer is filled with fun-packed festivities and scorching hot weather. You can combine your day trip with events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Australian Open.
Victoria’s winter, June to August, boasts fewer tourists and cheaper rates on hotels and flights. The best day trips from Melbourne in winter are Mount Buller, Lake Mountain and Mount Baw Baw.
The off-peak periods of spring, September to November, and autumn, March to May, are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
During this time, you can expect pleasant temperatures with cooler evenings, making it the best time to be outside exploring. It’s also the best time to visit popular tourist attractions in Victoria like the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road.
How to Get Around Victoria
Now that you’re up to speed on the best day trips from Melbourne, it’s time to figure out how to get around. The Victorian capital is well-connected with trains, trams and buses, and the public transport network links the city with the surrounding suburbs. There are regional buses and trains (run by the V-Line) that connect to a range of rural areas like Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Geelong, Belgrave and Warrnambool.
Here’s a basic guide to three transport options:
Trains, Trams & Buses: Easy to use. Plan your trip with the PTV App and buy a Myki to get around.
Car or Motorbike Rental: This is a must for most day trips, especially to those places that aren’t easily accessible with public transport. A car allows you to travel at your own pace, set your own timetable and make as many stops as you want along the way. A car is the best mode of transport for destinations like the Grampians, Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, Dandenong Ranges and Mornington Peninsula.
Taxis and Ridesharing: This is convenient if you don’t plan on renting a car, but it can get very expensive if you’re not splitting the costs with other travellers. I’d only recommend booking a cab or rideshare if you’re doing a short day trip in a big group.
Best Places to Stay in Melbourne CBD
Victoria has something to offer all types of travellers, from adventure junkies to beach bums. But before you can get out and explore the state, it’s best to set up a base in the city.
Each neighbourhood in Melbourne boasts its own flair, from the classy mansions in South Yarra to the hipster hot spots in Fitzroy. Popular areas to stay include Richmond, St Kilda, Carlton, Brunswick, Prahran and Southbank.
If you’re planning a day trip from Melbourne, I’d recommend basing yourself inside the CBD (Central Business District). You can enjoy easy access to all the top attractions, as well as the city’s two biggest train stations, Flinders Street Railway Station and Southern Cross Station. If you don’t plan on hiring a car on your trip to Melbourne, staying in the CBD will save you time, effort and money.
With a wide range of accommodation options, you can find something for every budget. Among all the luxury hotels, budget apartments and backpacker hostels, here are my top 3 places to stay in Melbourne CBD:
Budget ($): YTI Garden Hotel
Mid-range ($$): Meriton Suites King Street
Luxury ($$$): The Ritz Carlton
Best Day Trips from Melbourne, and Beyond!
Now that we’ve covered the best day trips from Melbourne, you can start planning your trip today! Epic waterfalls, notorious surf beaches and snow-capped mountains are just waiting to be explored. So why not get started?