melbourne eastern suburbs day trips

The 6 best day trips from Melbourne without a car

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

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

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

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

1. Go for a picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

2. Cycle or walk the Warburton Rail Trail

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

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

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

3. Go off-roading on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

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

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

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

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

4. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

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

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

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

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

5. Soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The best day trips from Melbourne

Need a break from city life? These nine day trips offer beaches, mineral springs, wineries, wildlife and more

If you're looking for a break from the inner-city grid, there's no better cure than a day trip from Melbourne. The state of Victoria is full of friendly neighbourhood towns, whether you're in the mood for  a winery tour , a road trip or a national park to explore. These one-day escapes are just what the doctor ordered, so get out there and explore Melbourne's beautiful backyard. 

Keen to stretch your legs? These are the best day hikes from Melbourne. Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are five road trip-worthy motels.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Melbourne

1.  daylesford.

There’s a reason that Daylesford is known as a haven of relaxation. Eighty per cent of the country's mineral springs are in this region, which makes it perfect for spa treatments and for growing high-quality produce, which you can enjoy at one of Daylesford's top restaurants. The region is extremely popular with weekenders from Melbourne, and once you visit you'll soon realise why many of them decide to make the tree change. 

If you have the cash to splash and you want the best of the best, there is one restaurant you must visit:   Lake House , perched on the titular body of water. The multi-course menu changes all the time, depending on what is in season and what nearby Dairy Flat Farm, owned by the Wolf-Taskers and part of the Lake House mini-empire, is growing at the time. Everything is fresh and treated with the utmost respect, with a vegetable-forward menu that heroes local produce but is the opposite of ascetic.

For a breakfast of champions,  Cliffy's Em porium   is very popular with locals, and for good reason. The small café does all the breakfast favourites, often with a vegan twist. Cliffy Hauser's original 1950s general store is now a providore, offering local produce, smallgoods, the region's justly famous mineral water, preserves and specialty groceries.

Thirsty? Make sure you stop into   Daylesford Cider , which makes traditional and not-so-traditional cider onsite from the onsite heritage apples. Owners Mackie and Clare are serious about cider, and they make numerous drops in both sparkling and still varieties. Many are traditional English ciders made using traditional methods, but there are also a few that are just for fun. Paddles are the most popular way to taste all the ciders on offer at the venue, which is also dog-friendly.

We can’t (and won’t) stop raving about   Radio Springs Hotel . Don't resist the pull of sipping whisky in the bric-a-brac-filled dining room, and if you’re here on a Thursday, the kitchen takes a break from serving impressive pub fare and invites a Thai chef to create a feast.

You’re here to relax, so begin your getaway by visiting arguably the most famous spa in the region,  Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa .

Similarly, t he best time to take in art is when you’ve got the mental space – so head to  the Convent Gallery  and spend time with work from all manner of historical periods and styles. 

Luxury can be found at  Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat ; a grand ’30s guesthouse transformed into a mineral spa and hotel. You could also stay here and not leave for days: there are open-air mineral pools, fine dining at the Argus Dining Room and huge, elegant rooms.

If you only do one thing...   For a simple slice of tranquillity, pick up some picnic goods at the gourmet food shops on the main street and head to the pristine  Lake Daylesford . You can take a walk around the lake or make a meal of your picnic on a bench. Keep an eye out for birdlife. 

2.  Phillip Island

Known for its colony of Little Penguins, Phillip Island is an island packed with coastal wildlife experiences, cultural events and a growing food and wine scene.

There are plenty of good food options on the island, and we'd highly recommend stopping in at  Wild Food Farm and Café  in Rhyll for breakfast or lunch. The property is a labour of love by Jude Mayall, whom you may know as the founder of bushfood company OutbackChef (and author of a cookbook of the same name). The farm grows native bush tucker like wattleseed and lemon myrtle, which is then used in the café as well as being packaged and sold online, in the gift shop and wholesale to chefs, distillers and brewers all over Australia. Fresh, native ingredients make the food here sing, and you can have a wander through hectares of native bushland and carefully cultivated bush tucker plants before or after your meal. 

At the   Westernport Hotel , we’d suggest grabbing a drink (preferably a locally brewed Furphy) and enjoying it as you catch views across to the island.

It’s always busy, but nothing beats the   Penguin Parade .   Every day at sunset, hundreds of little penguins waddle in from the sea on Summerland Beach.

If you're looking for a relaxing and bucolic place to stay,  Five Acres  farm stay could be just the place to unwind. Spanning the titular area, the farm has views across fields to the sea and friendly chickens, goats, sheep and two highland cattle, Rory and Ivy. The guesthouse is fully equipped with everything you need, including breakfast provisions procured from the farm's resident chickens. 

If you do one thing... t he 5km return  Pyramid Rock to Berrys Beach walk  is well worth your time. The clifftop walk offers pretty spectacular views, and the path is wide, mostly flat and easy to navigate. There are a few steps and undulating terrain, but for the most part, it's easy on the calves. The Berrys Beach end of the walk is along a paved road, but most of it traverses grassland. Keep an eye out for wallabies and the ubiquitous Cape Barren geese.

3.  Castlemaine

The coast gets all the glory, with its shining vistas and its glittering seascapes. But central Victoria should be your next weekend away destination, particularly the arty hub of Castlemaine. In recent years, Castlemaine and its surrounding towns have developed a reputation for being home to artists, musicians, writers and creatives. Castlemaine punches way above its weight when it comes to cultural festivals and activities – not to mention restaurants that are well worth the drive north. 

In what used to be the ice-creamery of the Theatre Royal, you'll find  Bistro Lola , a snug, two-tier restaurant with clusters of small tables and booths. With its low-lit charm and simple posies of flowers, it’s perfect date material. Indeed, Bistro Lola goes above and beyond quick bites before the movie or concert starts next door – this menu’s designed by head chef Sarah Curwen-Walker for destination dining. You might try an entrée of orange and coriander seed-cured Spanish mackerel, cucumber, currants and almonds, with green chilli oil; or a main such as Yapunyah chicken involtini with haricot beans, sage, porcini and speck.

Looking for a chill, feel-good place to enjoy a beer? One of the three owners of  the Taproom  is Doug Falconer of Hunters and Collectors, so there’s plenty of music booked on Sundays and most Fridays (not to mention Falconer hosts the karaoke, comedy and trivia nights), and there’s no door charge. 

Head to  the Mill , an  1875 woollen mill given a new lease of life when it was taken over in 2014 by a biodynamic sheepfarmer and a GP and transformed into a giant hub for food and artisan manufacturing. The biggest drawcard is the giant   Vintage Bazaar , open seven days a week and packed full with groovy clothes and homewares. They’ve thought of everything: as you browse the furniture makers and artist spaces, kids can be kept amused by the ping-pong and fussball tables, not to mention the Ice Cream Social’s hole-in-the-wall good times. The Mill is also home to the cellar door of the   Boomtown Winemakers Co-op , traditional Viennese coffeehouse   Das Kaffeehaus , and   the Taproom , a haven of craft beer. Make sure you stop by   Cabosse & Feve Chocolates  on your visit to stock up on artisan chocolates that are as pretty as they are tasty.

Those who do not stay at  the Empyre Hotel  stand outside and take photos. The Empyre was built in the late 1800s and is an exemplar of gold-rush architecture with its lace balconies and stained-glass windows. This boutique hotel offers a full breakfast and has its own luxurious bar. There are its gardens to explore, but it’s also mere metres away from Castlemaine’s loveliest sights, such as the Theatre Royal of the same era. There’s off-street parking, too. It's luxe, but you have to treat yourself now and again, no?

If you only do one thing...  Do you know how to have a gouda time? Sorry, sorry, no cheese puns here – the people at  the Cheese School in Castlemaine  take the dairy arts very seriously, as well they should. Not one but two experienced French cheesemakers, Ivan and Julie Larcher, have upped sticks from the French countryside to Castlemaine to open Australia's first ' university of cheese '. The school aims to teach cheesemakers and mongers traditional French techniques to create and sell the most delectable artisan cheeses in the Australian market. Although primarily aimed at industry professionals, the school also offers classes for laypeople to better appreciate cheeses (yes, there are tasting classes), as well as half-day or two-day intensive courses in home cheesemaking. 

4.  Mornington Peninsula

With beaches, wineries, parks, gardens and spas, Mornington Peninsula boasts an embarrassment of getaway riches. These diverse attractions are best discovered by car, and it’s an easy 90-minute drive south of the CBD. Not to mention the views overlooking Port Phillip Bay are nothing short of amazing.

You’ll find excellent examples of barbecue, banana pudding and good ol’ southern hospitality at Red Gum BBQ , a stellar barbecue restaurant inside a former machinery shed on Arthurs Seat Road. If you’re after something a little more luxe, Laura is the fine diner of the Mornington Peninsula to try, located at Pt Leo Estate.

A produce-led, fantastic restaurant, a fascinating sculpture garden and delightful wines crafted with care – Mornington Peninsula wineries don't get much better than Montalto . If you’re more of a cocktail fan, head to Flaggerdoot , the fancy design-driven cocktail bar at Jackalope Hotel .

It’s often packed with visitors, but the Peninsula Hot Springs   is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the mood for a soak. There are also   dolphin and seal swims , which  take you out into Port Phillip Bay, and a wonderful hedge maze in which to lose yourself at   Enchanted Adventure Garden .

It is not an exaggeration to say the Jackalope Hotel has changed the Mornington Peninsula. The cutting-edge, ultra-luxe hotel is what you might expect to find in New York's uber-hip Meatpacking District, not set among rolling hills and gently swaying vines.

If you don’t want to shell out $650 a night, try the Lindenderry at Red Hill . It sits on almost 14 hectares of vineyards and gardens and inside it feels like one big, glam country house with all of the elegance but none of the kitsch.

If you do one thing...   go for a walk down the   Bushrangers Bay Trail   at Cape Schanck. This coastal clifftop walk boasts picturesque vistas over Bass Strait.

5.  Yarra Valley

It’s kind of hard to believe that the Yarra Valley is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD. One minute you’re in the CBD, then next it's suburbia, and all of a sudden you’re surrounded by rolling hills covered in vines and paddocks with cows aplenty. The region’s world-renowned producers of cool-climate wines have helped put the Yarra Valley on the map. So pick your designated driver and get rolling.  

Giant Steps   do excellent charcuterie and cheese platters that you can match with fresh drops from the vineyard. Or hop across the street to   Innocent Bystander   for delicious wood-fired pizzas and moderately priced   moscato.

Visit   TarraWarra Estate ’s cellar door where, for $20 a person, guests can sample wines with winemaker Adam McCallum. Try the Single Block and Reserve ranges – the best chardonnay and pinot noir produced on the estate. There’s also   Yering Station , one of Yarra Valley’s oldest wineries, which is a favourite with visitors to the region.

If you think the Yarra Valley resembles a pastoral wonderland from the ground, imagine how it looks from up in a hot air balloon.   Global Ballooning Australia   runs a   one-hour sunrise tour over the Yarra Valley   for those looking to see the bucolic landscape from a bird’s eye perspective. Finish off with a visit to   the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery   for chocolate balls, blocks and many scoops of ice cream.

Glamping in a winery? Why the hell not. The historic   Balgownie Estate   has glamping accommodation just steps from the cellar door. Here you’ll have all the fixings of home – including a queen-size bed, split-system air con and a mini bar.

If you do one thing...  get some cheese from   Yarra Valley Dairy . These handmade farmhouse cheeses pair all too well with the local drops. 

6.  Great Ocean Road

It’s a Victorian icon for a reason – this windy stretch of road snakes all along the south-west coast of the state, starting at Torquay (1.5 hours from the CBD) and finishing up just before Warrnambool. It’s about a four-hour drive without stops, but heed our warning: you’ll definitely want to stop. There’s just too much happening along the coast not to, especially for those who like nature and native Australian animals. 

It’s the beach, so fish and chips are a must. Get yours from   Salty Dog Fish and Chippery  in Lorne and remember to ask for lots of chicken salt. They even do a deep-fried Mars bar, if you’re game.

The   Aireys Pub  is where it’s at. This much-loved watering hole regularly hosts live music sets, and it’s a great place to kick back with a bevvy post-swim. The pub serves up a great parma as well.

The Great Ocean Road runs right past the cool, temperate rainforest of the  Great Otway National Park , meaning you’re close to some of the country’s best native flora and fauna. Get close to animals in their natural habitat – the   Koalas in the Wild Tour   is great for spotting out eucalyptus-loving friends.  If you can bear getting up early, watching the sunrise at the   Twelve Apostles   is well worth the effort.

If you want to stay the night, head deep into the Otways towards the   Great Ocean Ecolodge and Conservation Ecology Centre . This entirely solar-powered centre boasts comfortable country style-rooms and access to local wildlife – your next-door neighbours could be kangaroos, wallabies and (if you’re very lucky) adorable tiger quolls.

If you do one thing…    try surfing ! There are plenty of places along the coast to do it; we’d suggest Anglesea if you like your waves friendly but not frisky.

7.  Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula has stood in the shadow of its eastern cousin for too long. Travellers are starting to realise that the rugged coastal region has just as much to offer as the Mornington, and it’s considerably less expensive. Whether you’re looking for wineries, beaches, luxury accommodation or great food, the Bellarine is ready to assist. 

W e’d suggest a meal at Merne , which has carved out its own chunk in the region’s epicurean scene. For something more casual, try the Queenscliff Brewhouse which, yes, is a brewery, but it’s also a pub, bistro, tasting room, whisky bar and hotel.

Take your pick from some of the peninsula’s best wineries including Jack Rabbit Vineyard , Curlewis Winery , Basils Farm and Scotchmans Hill . Switch up your winery visits with a trip to the Whiskery , a whisky and gin distillery. 

Animal lovers will love a visit to Jirrahlinga , a sanctuary for Australian native wildlife like kangaroos, echidnas, reptiles, dingoes and more. In the summertime, when the weather is fine, be sure to stop over at Adventure Park for some exhilarating water slide fun. If all else fails, you won’t be disappointed with a swim or surf at Ocean Grove beach. 

If you want to stay the night, you can go all out at the French chateau-looking Campbell Point House or whisk away your troubles at the seaside Lon Retreat . For a more boutique stay, try the Nest Point Lonsdale .

If you do one thing… cycle the coast. The relatively flat terrain of the Bellarine makes it ideal for a little two-wheeled tourism. The main track cyclists will want to try out is the Bellarine Rail trail – a 35-kilometre track that follows the old railway line and winds past many of the region’s attractions. You can even take your bike over on Port Phillip Ferries which travels daily between Melbourne and Portarlington on a schmick two-floor catamaran.

8.  Ballarat

If Sovereign Hill is all you know about Ballarat, it’s time for another visit to this historic gold rush town. From art galleries to winning dining destinations, this historic regional town is bursting with fun activities, especially during the colder months. The best part? VLine trains from Ballarat to Melbourne roughly run on the hour, and it takes less time than driving (about an hour and 20 minutes).   

You’ll need to keep your energy up during your Ballarat adventure, so we suggest hitting up   L’espresso   for a strong coffee and a hearty breakfast. If you need a pick me up, head to   Vegas and Rose   for cakes and macaroons.

Try   Hop Temple , a cosy food hall that serves a vast array of craft beers, ciders and wines, as well as OTT burgers, gluten-free salads and pizzas for one.  

Grab a coffee and walk down Sturt Street to the   Art Gallery of Ballarat . One of the oldest and biggest regional art galleries, the space boasts a huge collection of Australian art as well as running exhibitions throughout the year. A stand out is the   Ballarat International Foto Biennale , a month-long exhibition that features workshops, screenings, portfolio reviews, discussions and social events.

If you’re thinking of staying overnight, you can’t go past   the Provincial Ballarat . This 1909 building is heritage listed but was renovated in 2015, so it’s a happy mix of cosy old-world charm and stylish modern fixings.

If you do one thing...   you can't pass up a visit to   Sovereign Hill . This outdoor museum recreates what Ballarat was like ten years after the discovery of gold in 1851. Pan for gold nuggets, dress up in old-school garb and definitely take home some raspberry drops – they're really good.  

9.  High Country

There is so much more to do in the Victorian High Country than ski and snowboard (though of course, the region is justly famous for its snowfields), and it's a perfect destination for a week or long weekend any time of year. Roughly three hours drive from Melbourne, the High Country region has award-winning craft beer, wine, spirits and produce, a rich history to explore and hundreds of kilometres of breathtaking scenery to walk, cycle or even paddle through.

There are no shortage of places to dine in this beautiful part of the state. Ox and Hound Bistro in Beechworth is a great smart casual option, or level up to Provenance for a real fine dining experience. Bright Brewery and Tomahawks (also in Bright) are consistently nominated as must-dos by regular visitors and residents alike. Get the chargrilled broccoli at Tomahawks – you will not regret it. 

The High Country is home to a surprising number of craft breweries. If you're partial to a pint, check out Bridge Road Brewers in Beechworth, or Bright Brewery in Bright. You can follow the High Country Brewery Trail to make a day of it – it's a good way to find some smaller, local makers.

It would truly be rude not to set aside a portion of your visit to traverse the stunning winery landscapes of the High Country. Brown Brothers , Campbells , Boynton's and Ringer Reef are some of the must-sees – but that's truly only scratching the surface. 

There's also a tonne of fun historical stuff to see and do in the region. Check out the Old Beechworth Gaol tour and learn about Ned Kelly, or explore the historic precinct for enthralling (and sometimes gross) facts about the town's gold rush era.

Our Place at Bright is made up of four houses that cater from two to 28 guests. The houses are light and airy and in a really central location – perfect for a weekend getaway where you don't want to spend too much time in the car. Or for a Beechworth alternative, try the 1860 Luxury Accommodation cabin. Built in 1860, the venue has been lovingly restored with period details that turn the cabin into a gorgeous retreat not shy on modern comforts.

If you do one thing...  

Eat and drink. The produce in the High Country is truly second to none – time spent exploring breweries, distilleries, wineries and restaurants is time well spent. 

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14 Best Day Trips from Melbourne

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If you need a break from the city, Melbourne is a fantastic base for exploring Victoria with picturesque seaside villages, historic gold rush towns, stunning beaches, and lush rainforest all easily accessible.

On these day trips from Melbourne you can go wine tasting, swim with seals, soak in hot springs, get up close with penguins and koalas, and drive one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world—the famous Great Ocean Road.

During our three months in Melbourne, we did many of these day trips ourselves and have also included suggestions from other travel bloggers.

I’ve organised these Melbourne day trips by distance from the city from easy trips like Brighton Beach to longer but worthwhile excursions to the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Park.

All prices mentioned are in AUS $ and at the end there is a handy map with everything mentioned.

Melbourne Travel Tips

Melbourne day trips within 1 hour, day trips 1–2 hours from melbourne, day trips 2+ hours from melbourne, melbourne day trips map, more australia posts.

Most of these day trips from Melbourne are best experienced with your own car.

I recommend checking Rental Cars to search for the best car rental deal.

If you aren’t renting a car for your entire stay, make sure you choose a rental from downtown Melbourne as the airport is 23km away. 

For one of our day trips, we used Uber Carshare which is a car-sharing site where you borrow a car from a local.

It was more expensive than a traditional rental and the car wasn’t as nice, but it was more convenient. 

We were able to choose a car just around the corner from our Airbnb in North Fitzroy , we didn’t have to complete any paperwork in person (it was contactless key collection), and we didn’t have to refuel before returning it.

It’s a good option if you’re not staying in the CBD and only need a car for one day.

In the listings below I’ve included approximate distances and times from Flinders Street Station in Melbourne CBD.

If you don’t want to rent a car, I’ve suggested Melbourne day tours and included public transport details where applicable.

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These easy day trips are within a 1 hour drive from Melbourne.

1) Heide Museum of Modern Art

As easy day trip from Melbourne is to the Heide Museum of Modern Art in the northern suburb of Bulleen .

This modern art gallery features Australian art in three exhibition buildings which were once the home of arts benefactors John and Sunday Reed who purchased an old dairy farm in 1934.

It became the gathering place of young modernist painters known as the Heide Circle.

The galleries are set within 15 acres of beautiful gardens where you can wander amongst the sculptures. There’s also a great cafe featuring produce grown in their kitchen garden.

Details: The museum is currently open from Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm (and public holidays) and costs $22 for adults/ Free for children under 16. 

How to Get There: Heide is located 15km north of Melbourne CBD. The easiest way to get there is to drive or get a taxi which takes 20 minutes. There’s free parking on site. By public transport, take the train ( Hurstbridge line) to Heidelberg station and then the 903 bus (Mordialloc bound) to Heide. Disembark at the Bridge Street/Manningham Road stop and walk to Heide through Banksia Park . Alternatively, if you are feeling energetic, you could cycle or walk to Heide along the Yarra River .

2) Brighton

Contributed by Pauline from BeeLoved City

Located only 20 minutes away from Melbourne CBD, Brighton is an excellent destination for people who want to get away from the city without having to travel for too long. 

This coastal suburb is the perfect place to visit if you want to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the beach.

The Brighton Bathing boxes are the most famous landmark in the area. Not only are they beautiful and colourful but they are also a historical site. They’ve been around since the 19th century! 

From the station, it takes less than 10 minutes to reach the bathing boxes. There are quite a few of them and you will love taking beautiful photos there. 

Pro tip: the most famous beach chalet is the one with the Australian Flag. People usually queue to take photos in front of it.

If you walk further down, you will discover many other beach chalets that are just as beautiful and don’t get as much attention. 

It’s also an excellent spot to soak up the views of the Melbourne skyline.

Once you are done with the beach, roam around Brighton and discover the local shops. For the full experience, grab some fish and chips!

If you wish to explore more during your day, you can keep driving and head to the Yarra Valley , Phillip Island or Mornington Peninsula . 

How to Get There: This is one of the best short trips from Melbourne. You can easily get to Brighton by car (20 minutes drive) or by train (15 minutes from Flinders Street Station). If you opt for the train, you can either buy a ticket or use your Myki card (daily passes cost $6.70 – 9.20). Suggested Tour: This Phillip Island day trip stops at the Brighton Bathing Boxes on the way. 

3) Yarra Valley Wineries

One of the best day trips from Melbourne is to the Yarra Valley , Victoria’s oldest wine region dating back to 1838.

It’s only an hour from the city but feels far away from everything. The pretty rolling green hills and vineyards could be in Europe, except for the kangaroos—we saw dozens of them bouncing amongst the vines on our way home.

We took a wine tour so we could both sample the chardonnay and pinot noir the region is known for.

We went with Vinetrekker , which is more expensive than some of the Yarra Valley tours, but it felt worth it to us.

Our guide Paul has an excellent relationship with the wineries and we got more premium tastings (often of reserve wines). He was even able to get us into places that are usually closed on winter weekdays.

There were only six of us on our tour and we never felt rushed. We also appreciated that food pairings were provided with a couple of the wine tastings as well as a full lunch at Yering Station.

Medhurst was our favourite winery—it is small and good value and has beautiful views from the tasting room.

Domaine Chandon is the most visited winery in the area—it’s the Australian branch of Moet & Chandon—and is grand and stylish with huge windows overlooking the vines.

Paul took us on a tour of the cellar and taught us about the process of making sparkling wine before we enjoyed a glass of bubbles outside.

The only downside of the day was the windy roads on the drive home after drinking far too much wine!

How to Get There: The Yarra Valley is an hour’s drive from Melbourne. It’s best to visit with your own vehicle (if you have a designated driver) or by tour if everyone in your group wants to sample the wine. Suggested Tour: We did Vinetrekker’s Wine and Food Day tour which costs $250 for a full day trip including transport, guide, and lots of wine and food.  This Full-Day Yarra Valley Wine Experience with Lunch is a more affordable option at $165 but group sizes are larger and it doesn’t include additional food pairings. 

4) Dandenong Ranges

The forested slopes of the Dandenong Ranges are the perfect green escape just an hour from the city.

You’ll find beautiful gardens and hiking trails as well as cute villages for a delicious lunch or afternoon tea.

We started our Dandenong day trip at the 1000 Steps (officially the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk ) in the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

It’s a popular local exercise spot that involves a challenging climb up steps through eucalyptus trees and ferns—we even saw a wallaby.

There’s no view at the top—it’s more about experiencing the rainforest and getting your heart pumping.

The return walk took us an hour. It’s best visited early on a weekday before it gets too busy.

Next we visited the Dandenong Ranges Botanical Gardens where we spent an hour strolling the pretty gardens, although we could have easily stayed for longer.

In early spring the rhododendrons were blooming a vibrant pink and red and the cherry blossoms had started to appear.

A short drive away in the village of Olinda we stopped at The Deli Platter for lunch—the vegetarian focaccia was delicious and they have lots of deli items you could take away for a picnic.

A few doors down is an excellent organic shop, The Organic Fanatic , where we treated ourselves to a bouquet of beautiful poppies and some locally made vegan chocolates by Medita.

Next up was our favourite stop of the day—the William Ricketts Sanctuary , a fabulous sculpture garden in the forest. The unique clay sculptures merge with the rocks beneath the towering eucalyptus trees.

From here we drove up to SkyHigh Mount Dandenong , a popular stop in the area but it felt like a tourist trap to us.

Parking costs from $5 – 10 and on our visit it was busy with kids enjoying the maze and mini golf.

The small gardens didn’t match the ones we’d seen earlier in the day and although the view of the Melbourne CBD was sweeping, we preferred the view at the Silvan Dam Lookout on the way up.

Other popular places to visit in the Dandenongs if you have more time are the Puffing Billy steam train and more gardens such as Alfred Nicholas and George Tindale .

How to Get There: The Dandenong Ranges are best visited with your own vehicle. We started in the south and worked our way north before heading back to the city. The 1000 Steps are 40km east of Melbourne CBD and take less than an hour to reach. Suggested Tour: This Puffing Billy Train Day Trip also includes a visit to Healesville Animal Sanctuary and this Dandenong Ranges Private Tour includes lunch and a forest walk. 

5) Hanging Rock

Contributed by Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller

While you’re visiting the Melbourne region, explore the mysteries and history of Hanging Rock .

This former volcano lies 718 metres above sea level near the small town of Woodend . 

It was created 6 million years ago by magma pouring from a narrow vent in the bedrock and is an excellent example of a mamelon mountain.

The walk up to the summit is only 1.5km long (almost one mile), but you should allow about one hour to explore all the rock formations and admire the views.

As a class 3 track, it is recommended for closed in shoes and for people with some bushwalking experience. Alternatively, in the area there are also wineries, parks, markets, and gardens to visit as well.

What makes Hanging Rock so famous in Australia is that a small group of boarding school girls mysteriously disappeared after a picnic in 1900.

There was a book written about the story in 1967 and a Peter Weir movie produced in 1975, which has ensured the story has survived more generations.

How to Get There: Hanging Rock lies about 70km north of Melbourne city and takes about one hour to get there.

Contributed by Audrey Chalmers from See Geelong

If you’re visiting Melbourne and would like to get out of the city for a while, there’s no easier (or more fun!) day trip than a visit to Geelong .

Located just 75 kilometres south of Melbourne, Geelong is Victoria’s second-largest city, but it still manages to retain a relaxed laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a short getaway from the big city.

Geelong’s biggest drawcard is its magnificent north-facing waterfront.

Offering views across the bay towards the You Yangs and Melbourne this enticing area is filled with cafes, restaurants, bars, and loads of fun activities to keep you busy all day. 

Here you’ll find the Giant Sky Wheel , helicopter and Harley Davidson rides, Segway tours, sailing lessons, and stand-up paddleboarding.

It’s a great family destination with plenty of things for kids to do. In summer head to the waterpark at Eastern Beach where they can splash and swim all day long.

Littlies love the magic of the 1892 hand-carved wooden carousel, the Thomas lookalike train, the Poppy Kettle playground, and the iconic Baywalk Bollard characters.

Geelong is also home to a host of festivals and events. Time your visit right and you can enjoy the Festival of Sails , the largest keelboat regatta in the southern hemisphere, the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival , or the Cadel Evans Road Race .

How to Get There: There are regular VLine rail services from Southern Cross Station to Geelong. Alternatively, the Port Phillip Ferry departs from the Docklands and docks at Cunningham Pier , right in the heart of the waterfront. Suggested Tour: Explore Geelong’s waterfront with this fun and unique Water Bike Coastal Tour experience.

7) Queenscliff – Swim with Dolphins and Seals

Contributed by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

Queenscliff is 90 minutes southwest of Melbourne. It sits on one side of the entrance to Port Phillip Bay .

Given its seaside location, when you head to Queenscliff for the day, pack your bathers and towel.

The highlight of visiting Queenscliff is the chance to swim with seals and dolphins . A Seal & Dolphin Swim Tour takes you into Port Philip Bay to meet the resident sea lion colony.

The sea lions are more than eager to come over and say hello—it is one of the most interactive wildlife experiences you’ll have. If you prefer to stay dry, you’ll still get a great view of these inquisitive creatures.

You might also get to swim with dolphins. Even if you don’t jump in the water with them, it is great watching them swim at the bow of the boat.

All your equipment for this half-day tour is included. The experience caters for swimmers of all abilities.

Back at Queenscliff, you can visit the Maritime Museum and get a sense of the town’s naval history.

The Bellarine Railway is also based at Queenscliff and gives you a chance to ride old steam locomotives between Queenscliff and neighbouring towns. The sound and smell of the trains is fantastic!

If you haven’t had enough of the water, nearby Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads have lovely beaches and coastal scenery to explore. They are great for a swim, walk or surf.

How to Get There: If you want to make the journey to Queenscliff part of the adventure, drive to Sorrento on the other side of the bay and take the car ferry across. The one-way fare for your car is $75 (free for bikes!) and $14 adults/ $10 for children 4-15 years old. Suggested Tour: This Seal & Dolphin Swim Tour will give you lots of unique snorkelling opportunities with an expert crew.

8) Point Lonsdale

Contributed by Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

Located just across Port Phillip Bay within view of Melbourne, historic Point Lonsdale seems much closer than it really is.

An hour and a half by car or two and a half by bus, this classic port town makes a terrific day trip for those who like a little history with their scenery, or a perfect stop along one of the world’s best road trips . 

Yes, Point Lonsdale has great ocean views and a nice beach, although that doesn’t exactly make it unique in Victoria.

What you don’t see every day is a century-old lighthouse that is still in use today. One of the last manned lighthouses in all of Australia, it overlooks “the Rip”, considered one of the most dangerous navigable passages in the world.

Visitors can climb the 120 steps for stunning views across the Victoria Bight to Fort Nepean and you can book a tour (from $8 adults) if you want a closer look at the inside.

Other attractions in Point Lonsdale include a pair of Victorian Heritage Registered buildings, bird-filled Lake Victoria and Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park with great diving and snorkelling.

The legendary Buckley’s Cave is also worth exploring.

Legend has it that a mentally unstable Buckley hid here for decades after escaping the prison in Sorrento. Then one day he simply walked into Melbourne and immediately received a pardon, possibly in honour of his moxie? The stories vary.

Charming little Point Lonsdale has a population of less than 3,000, making it easily explored in a few hours.

How to Get There: The most direct route is to drive down through Geelong, but you can turn it into a loop by taking the scenic ferry journey across between Queenscliff and Sorrento. Suggested Tour: This Full Day Bellarine Peninsula Sightseeing Tour includes a visit to Geelong, the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Point Lonsdale Lighthouse and even strawberry picking!

9) Mornington Peninsula

Contributed by Monique from Trip Anthropologist

It is only just over an hour from downtown Melbourne to the delightful wineries of the Mornington Peninsula , with their cellar doors, pizza ovens, fine dining, and sculpture parks.

Another 30 minutes further south brings you to the end of the Mornington Peninsula and the towns of Sorrento and Portsea .

The Mornington Peninsula is known for its markets, hot springs, and for snorkelling, diving and hiking.

At the far tip is the intriguing Point Nepean National Park with its Quarantine Station, forts, tunnels, wild surf beaches and quiet bathing spots.

It is free to wander through this entire abandoned town with its dormitories, morgues, cemeteries, leper colonies, and consumptives wards all within a beautiful coastal setting.

The town of Portsea straddles both the Bay and the wild Bass Strait and, like Sorrento, is full of cafes, bars, restaurants and spas. Make sure to look for weedy sea dragons off the Portsea Pier!

Sorrento has wonderful swimming beaches lined with bathing boxes and both a Millionaire’s Walk and an Artists’ Trail .

Accommodation in Portsea and Sorrento is scarce but a day trip gives plenty of time for boating, picnicking, swimming, e-biking, or exploring the shops, wineries, bars and eateries of this beautiful part of southern Victoria. 

How to Get There: The Mornington Peninsula is just over 100km from Melbourne CBD and takes about 90 minutes to drive. By public transport take the train to Frankston then the bus to Sorrento and Portsea. This route is much slower and can take three hours each way. Suggested Tour: The Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour includes an 8km coastal hike and a soak in natural hot springs. If that sounds too active, this Morning Peninsula Hot Springs and Bathing Boxes Tour visits the hot springs as well as the gondola and colourful bathing boxes. 

10) Ballarat

Contributed by Shae from The Bright Eyed Explorer

Ballarat is most famous for its place in Australian history when gold was discovered in the 1850s and people from all over the world flocked to the area to find their fortune. 

A great way of learning about the history of Ballarat is to head to Sovereign Hill .

One of the most popular attractions in Victoria, Sovereign Hill is a living history museum, presenting the story of Ballarat during the gold rush boom. 

The wealth of the gold rush era is evident today in the Victorian-era style buildings that line Ballarat’s charming streets.

I suggest spending some time walking around Sturt and Lydiard streets which is where you will find art galleries, artisan shops, and the famous Craig’s Hotel .

Food lovers will be impressed by the number and quality of restaurants and cafes that have popped up all over the city, where the focus on locally sourced produce is a highlight.

Equally impressive is the local beer and wine scene. I recommend having a bite to eat and sampling local wines at Mitchell Harris Wines . There are also plenty of great pubs worth trying too.

Lake Wendouree and the Botanical Gardens are lovely to walk around in the spring and summer months.

Worth a visit is the Ballarat Wildlife Park where you can get up close with some native Australian wildlife (yes koalas and kangaroos!).

How to Get There: Ballarat from Melbourne by car will take approximately 1.5 hours from the CBD. Alternatively, the V/Line train service from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne will get you there in just under two hours. Trains run frequently and late into the night. Suggested Tour: If you have limited time then this Sovereign Hill Gold Mining Town Day Trip that includes round-trip transport could be useful.

11) Daylesford

Contributed by Ucman from BrownBoyTravels .

Daylesford is a beautiful town that offers fresh clean air for city dwellers, mineral thermal springs that rejuvenate your skin, and amazing local wines to complement fresh locally produced cuisine.

There are multiple spas rich with mineral thermal water with plenty of options whether you prefer the balmy indoor pools and saunas to perfectly heated water outside.

The city itself features mid 19th-century cottages that have been converted into luxury accommodations giving the city its pristine, idyllic look.

For shopping head to Vincent Street , and if you like architecture, the area around the Town Hall is your spot.

If you are excited by art, head to the Convent Gallery which was described as ‘Australia’s most beautiful art gallery’.

If you prefer nature, head to the shores of Daylesford Lake for a relaxing stroll.

Daylesford has something for everyone and makes for the perfect day trip from Melbourne.

How to Get There: By car it’s 115km and takes under 90 minutes with beautiful views along the way. By public transport, there are frequent trains and buses. A train ride will cost roughly $9–14 whereas the bus will set you back $8–12 and can take up to three hours with connections. Suggested Tour: This Small Group Daylesford Wine Tour can be tailored to a half-day/ full day and includes stops at wineries, distilleries, sights and more.

12) The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is the most famous destination in Victoria and many people want to visit it during their stay in Melbourne.

If you can, I highly recommend allocating at least two or three days to drive this scenic coastal road, but it is possible on a day trip.

To make the most of your day, an early start from Melbourne is key. I recommend taking the inland road via Colac and driving directly to Port Campbell (about 3 hours from Melbourne).

Nearby is the most famous attraction on the Great Ocean Road—the dramatic Twelve Apostles rock stacks that emerge from the ocean.

There are various viewing points only a five-minute walk from the car park.

If you arrive by late morning, you’ll avoid the crowds (the tour groups usually drive the road in the other direction). You can then drive back to Melbourne on the Great Ocean Road.

Other highlights of the drive are the nearby Gibson Steps , Loch Ard Gorge (only five minutes from Twelve Apostles), the seaside town of Apollo Bay , and Kennett River where you can see koalas.

See our Great Ocean Road itinerary for more details. 

How to Get There: You’ll need to drive yourself or take a tour. Expect it to be a long day (at least 12 hours) and you’ll need to be confident driving on winding coastal roads. Suggested Tour: This Great Ocean Road Day Full Day Trip is popular and follows a typical itinerary. If you’d prefer to visit the Twelve Apostles before most of the other tour buses arrive, this Great Ocean Road Reverse Experience heads directly to the highlights via the inland route and then follows the road back to the city. 

13) Phillip Island

Contributed by Sharon from Baby Journey .

One of the most popular day trips from Melbourne is definitely one of the best – visiting Phillip Island .

Located an easy two-hour drive south-east of Melbourne, Phillip Island is most famous for its nightly penguin parade. Around sunset, many fairy penguins come ashore in groups. 

You can watch them from stands in the sand dunes and then walk around on boardwalks looking down as they waddle to their nests for the night. This should be #1 on your Phillip Island hit list.

There are many other attractions for the day time, like Nobbies Centre which is nearby. From here, you can see Australia’s largest fur seal colony or learn about Antarctica at the Antarctic Journey.

If you buy a 4 Park Pass from Phillip Island Nature Parks , you can visit these attractions plus visit the Koala Conservation Centre and spot koalas in the wild and Churchill Island to learn about the history of the place and for fun farm activities.

Adding all these attractions together will give you a fabulous day trip from Melbourne.

How to Get There: Phillip Island is connected to mainland Australia by bridge and is easy to get to by bus or car. The island itself is a reasonable size at 101 square metres and attractions are spread out, so it’s best to travel here by car so you can enjoy all the island has to offer. Suggested Tour: This Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour from Melbourn e includes the koala reserve, beautiful beaches, Nobbies, and of course, the sunset penguin parade. 

14) The Grampians National Park

Contributed by Cassie from Cassie The Hag

The Grampians National Park is a popular day trip from Melbourne, providing a feeling of the true Australian wilderness, as well as specific natural gems.

I recommend heading straight to MacKenzie Falls , one of my favourite waterfalls in Victoria.

There is a fairly steep walk down to the 35-metre waterfall which is 2km return, but then you can enjoy the scenery and relax.

Alternatively, there is a separate 2km walk to the top lookout point with no steps. This is the must-see of any visit to the Grampians National Park . 

There are also many lookout points within the Grampians, a great way to witness the endless bush and significant rocky features within the valley such as ‘ Halls Gap ’.

You can drive directly to some, such as the Boroka Lookout or view them during a trek such as The Pinnacles Hike .

The Balconies is also an easy 1km walk, making it a good option for a day trip.

The Hollow Mountain walk is only just over 2km but is more of a difficult option with rocky boulders and drops—one for the more experienced hikers. 

Most activities are free, aside from gas, though more difficult hikes may be best to do with a guide.

Despite the long drive, coming back to Melbourne at sunset is a wonderful time to spot hundreds of kangaroos who tend to graze here. I also spotted wild emus and (yikes) a brown snake.

How to Get There: At a three-hour drive from Melbourne, you’ll have to leave early, and the best way to get there is by car. Suggested Tour: This Grampians National Park Great Escape Tour from Melbourne includes MacKenzie Falls and the Boroka Lookout. 

• The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary
• The Perfect Weekend in Brisbane Itinerary
• 19 Amazing Things to Do on North Stradbroke Island
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Caloundra

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Hi, Australia is one of the best places to Explore and in Australia Melbourne is one of my favorite cities to travel, to next year I will plan a long trip to Melbourne. Thank You for sharing this information with us.

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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 Top 10 Day Trips From Melbourne

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

Melbourne offers plenty of things to do, but if you want to venture away from the city for a but, you’ll get to experience a whole new breath of fresh air. We use that expression because a day trip to a different part of Victoria usually includes hikes, wildlife, beaches (and the occasional wine tasting). 

Most of these day trips require a car, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Be sure to give yourself enough time for the ride back so that you’re not driving in the dark. Kangaroos, as cute as they are, are a problem on the country roads—kind of like deer elsewhere. For day trips that include public transportation, be wary that it might extend your travel time due to stops along the way. 

No matter how you get there, you’re sure to find a nearby adventure just a few hours from the city. Here are the top 10 day trips from Melbourne.

Ballarat: Learn About the Gold Rush at Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is a charming town known for the 1850s Victorian gold rush. This part of Australian history is similar to the California Gold Rush, where there was a discovery of wealth in the mines of Ballarat. Sovereign Hill is an outdoor museum where you can take a guided tour of the gold mine and pan for real gold. The best part? The whole museum is in character, including actors in costume, horse-drawn carriages, and Wild West-style buildings. Sovereign Hill takes you back in time.

Getting There : If you rent a car from Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), it’s an hour and a half drive on Highway M8 toward Ballarat. Otherwise, you can take the V/Line train from Southern Cross Station. The train takes about 90 minutes and drops you off at Ballarat Railway Station. From there, it’s about a 30-minute walk through town to Sovereign Hill or a seven-minute cab ride. 

Travel Tip : If you visit Ballarat during July, Sovereign Hill throws a month-long winter festival with Christmas lights, snow, and an ice skating rink.

Great Ocean Road: Drive Along the Southern Coast

The Great Ocean Road is a 150-mile stretch of road along Victoria’s southern coast, starting at Torquay and ending in Warrnambool. Along the way, there are stops for vantage points, wildlife encounters, waterfalls, and surfing. If you’re doing a self-guided road trip, be sure to stop at Bells Beach to watch the surfers. This beach is the spot where the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition is held each year during Easter. Have your camera ready for incredible rock formations at the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and Bay of Islands. 

Getting There : While a lot of visitors complete this route over a couple of days or more, it’s possible to do the Great Ocean Road in one day if you start early. If you rent a car in the city, take M1 toward Warun. Then take the exit toward Torquay to begin your coastal road trip. You can also hop on a tour bus that will take you to all the top spots in one day.

Travel Tip : Looking for a spot to stop for lunch? Lorne or Apollo Bay are small towns on the Great Ocean Road, where you’ll find restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

Dandenong Ranges: Nature Hikes and Bushwalks

The Dandenong Ranges are a set of mountain ranges east of the city. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, cycling, or bushwalks. Among the hiking trail options are Mathias Track (four miles round-trip), Bartletts Track – Blackhole Loop (3.7 miles round-trip), and Burkes Lookout Mount Dandenong (under one-mile round-trip). The Kokoda Track Memorial (1,000 steps) is a popular trail known for its challenging stairs to the top of a hill. It’s set in a wet and cool rainforest environment and offers a peaceful escape from the big city. 

Getting There : From the city, it’s a 45-minute drive along M1 toward Ferntree Gully Road. By train, hop on the Belgrave train from Flinders Street Station. Get off at Upper Ferntree Gully Station, and the carpark is just down the road. 

Travel Tip : The Dandenong Ranges gets super busy with tourists and locals on the weekend. Skip the crowds and visit during a weekday or get there early.

Mount Buller: Ski or Snowboard

Have you ever thought about skiing in Australia? If you’re visiting Victoria from late June to early October, consider a trip to the snow. Mount Buller is about a three-hour drive from Melbourne and offers 22 lifts and 740 acres of skiable terrain. Don’t expect anything like the Swiss Alps—skiing in Australia is quite tame and family-friendly. You can rent gear at Mount Buller, and lift passes can be as cheap as AU$66, depending on the time of year. It is one of the largest ski villages in Victoria, with more than 30 restaurants and bars, plus plenty of accommodation options.

Getting There : You can rent a car and drive yourself to Mount Buller or catch the coach bus service that regularly runs during the winter season.

Travel Tip : If you decide to drive to Mount Buller, you must have snow chains for your car tires. There are regular checkpoints on the roads where local authorities will ensure that you are carrying chains. If you aren’t, it could result in a fine, and you might have to turn around. You can purchase or rent snow chains at service stations and rental shops as you get closer to the mountains. 

Yarra Valley: Wine Tasting

The cool and wet climate of Yarra Valley makes it a prime region for producing wine, particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The best way to experience the Yarra Valley is on a wine tour or by car service so that you can learn about the region while having a designated driver. It’s a big area, but be sure to stop at TarraWarra Estate . It’s a massive property on top of a hill with a cellar door, art gallery, and restaurant. You can do a wine tasting here for AU$10 a person. Yarra Valley is not only known for its wine, but also for producing artisanal cheese, rich chocolate, and craft beer.

Getting There : By car, it’s an hour’s drive from the CBD along M3 toward Maroondah Highway. Otherwise, search for a winery tour or car service that’s right for you and your group. With a car service, you can arrange the pick-up and drop-off location as well as which wineries you’d like to visit.

Travel Tip : For a fun way to experience Yarra Valley, check out this bicycle wine tour . You can cycle through the countryside while stopping at various vineyards and eateries along the way!

Phillip Island: Spot Fairy Penguins

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Phillip Island is a small island off the southern coast that’s known for its wildlife, beaches, and nature walks. The Nobbies is a coastal boardwalk where you can spot Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony by looking through the viewing binoculars. When the sun goes down, be sure to check out the Phillip Island penguin parade . At sunset, a colony of tiny fairy penguins make their way from the water onto the beach.

Getting There : Phillip Island is a two-hour drive from Melbourne. Take M1 and M420 to Phillip Island Link Rd. This is a toll route, so be wary of that if renting a car.

Travel Tip : The penguin parade is a popular event on Phillip Island. Tickets are required for general viewing, so if you know it’s something you want to do, book in advance.

Grampians National Park: Scenic Hikes

There are plenty of hikes within Grampians National Park . It just depends on how far you want to walk and how much of a challenge you’re craving. An easy and popular hike is the Balconies Walk, a one-mile hike to panoramic views of Victoria Valley. To break a sweat, Hollow Mountain is a two-hour hike with a bit of rock climbing involved. It leads to a wide-open view of Wimmera Plain. 

Getting There : Grampians National Park is a three-hour drive from the city along the Western Freeway. You can also take the train by getting on the V/Line at Southern Cross Station direct to Ararat with connecting coach services to other parts of the region.

Travel Tip : Pack a lunch and snacks for a day trip to the Grampians. There are very few restaurants in town.

Torquay: Beach and Surfing

Torquay is Australia’s surfing capital where you’ll find big swells, fearless surfers, and laid back beach culture. This town is where brands such as Rip Curl and Quicksilver were born, which you can learn about at the Australian Surf Museum . Bells Beach and Jan Juc Beach are the best spots to have a picnic and watch professional surfers shred the rolling waves. 

Getting There : It’s an hour’s drive from the city along M1 toward Warun. Take the exit toward Torquay. It’s possible to get to Torquay via public transportation, but it would take two trains, one bus, and two hours.  

Travel Tip : If you’re in town during Easter, try to catch the Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition at Bells Beach.

Wilsons Promontory National Park: Hikes and Beaches

At the southernmost tip of mainland Australia is a vast national park called Wilsons Promontory . It’s a beautiful area for camping, hiking, and spotting wildlife. When you’re there, take on the Tidal River to Pillar Point hiking trail. It’s a quiet 2.5-mile walk with ocean views along the way. Mount Oberon is a four-mile return track that zig-zags up to the summit. Once you’re at the top, it’s unobstructed views of the surrounding park. 

Getting There : Wilsons Prom is a two and a half-hour drive from the city of Melbourne. Take the South Gippsland Highway (M420) until you reach the exit labeled Korumburra/Leongatha/Wilsons Promontory. Then follow the signs into the park. 

Travel Tip : Be sure to visit Squeaky Beach during your day trip to Wilsons Prom. It’s filled with pure white sand that literally squeaks under your toes. 

Mornington Peninsula: Peninsula Hot Springs

For relaxation, take a day trip down the Mornington Peninsula to the natural hot springs. It’s a spa with thermal hot baths and private pools in a peaceful, outdoor setting. The Hilltop Pool, in particular, has a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding region. There are also options for dining, accommodation, wellness retreats, and massages if you’d prefer to upgrade your relaxation experience. 

Getting There : It’s about an hour and a half drive from Melbourne CBD to the hot springs. Take M3 towards Mornington Peninsula, then continue onto Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Browns Road to Springs Lane. There’s also a shuttle service that will take you to and from the hot springs from the city for AU$130. That price includes entry to the Bath House. The shuttle service is only available on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. 

Travel Tip : Get to the Peninsula Hot Springs before 9 a.m. for a discounted ticket. When you finish at the spa, continue a 20-minute drive to Sorrento for lunch at Rusty’s Cafe Bar and Grill .

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10 Best Day Trips From Melbourne For A Quick Getaway

Step away for the day with these easy road trips from Melbourne.

The city of Melbourne has ample attractions for visitors and locals, and even the suburbs have their charms. The Victorian capital is a bewitching blend of culture, cuisine, coffee , shopping, greenery, entertainment, and general cool.

But even the finest cities call for occasional escape. At times you yearn for simpler pleasures – a dash of yin to your urban yang – and the only antidote is to pack the car, set the road trip playlist, and bid the metropolis goodbye.

Fortunately, some of Melbourne’s most memorable sights sit outside the CBD. An hour or two’s drive could bring you to beaches and bluffs, rugged mountains and thick forests, historic towns, hot springs, spas, vineyards, and even penguins.

Fill up the tank and pack the snacks. It’s time to discover the best day trips from Melbourne.

Yarra Valley

Pick your poison and head to the Yarra Velley for a day of (responsible) drinking. The region is famous for its wineries, which produce world-class Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and sparkling wines. The Yarra Valley is also one of Victoria’s oldest cider regions, and a growing number of microbreweries have set up shop in the area.

If a tipple isn’t in the cards, explore the TarraWarra Museum of Art, trek Yarra Ranges National Park, or soar over the scenery in a hot air balloon.

Dandenong Ranges

The forest-covered Dandenong Ranges has been a popular retreat for city slickers for over a century. While you could visit just for a scenic drive, the ideal visit involves actually setting foot in the great outdoors. Stroll through Sherbrooke Forest or one of the Dandenongs’ ornamental gardens. Cycle ‘The Wall’, ‘Devil’s Elbow’, or ‘1 in 20’. Summit Mount Dandenong for a sprawling view of Melbourne below.

If you have the stomach for a bit of sentimentality on your visit, hop aboard Puffing Billy for a panoramic ride. The venerable steam train seems a tad silly at first glance, but it’s one of the finest preserved steam railways in the world – still running on its original, century-old track – and it’s a beloved Dandenongs institution.

Mornington Peninsula

An hour outside of Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula offers relaxed coastal living with a sophisticated side. Walk to Arthurs Seat for the area’s most elevated view. Commune with nature at Point Nepean National Park. Unwind in the local hot springs. Pick up souvenirs at the Red Hill Markets, or pick your own fresh fruit at the Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm.

That’s just the tip of the Mornington Peninsula iceberg. The region also boasts cooking classes, art galleries, day spas, food and wine tours, horse riding, diving, fishing, sailing, surfing , and a selection of spectacular golf courses.

There’s a good reason Daylesford is renowned for its relaxing vibe: 80 percent of Australia’s mineral springs are in the area, making it prime territory for spas and high-quality produce. The former is most famously found at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. The latter is best expressed by the locally focused, repeatedly awarded eatery at the Lake House.

Should you get bored of the pampering at any point, pay a visit to The Convent Gallery. The 19th century mansion began life as the private residence for the Gold Commissioner, then became a convent and Catholic boarding school, and now houses three levels of galleries containing works by over 100 local, national, and international artists.

Macedon Ranges

Cinemaphiles, this one’s for you. The distinctive formations of Hanging Rock – of Picnic at Hanging Rock fame – await in central Victoria. But you don’t have to be a fan of 1970s Australian film to appreciate the sight. The 6 million-year-old structure is a favourite for anyone who appreciates a hike or a view.

To continue the adventures in Mother Nature, ascend Mount Macedon, a 1001 metre-high extinct volcano. Pay respects to the heroes of World War I at the Memorial Cross at the summit, then gaze in awe at the sweeping view of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges, and the You Yangs.

Phillip Island

Leave Melbourne early to make the most of a day on Phillip Island. Though the island maintains strong ties to its farming roots, modern times have brought an odd mix of petrolheads and penguin fans to its shores. Its two most famous events are the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, held annually in October, and the Penguin Parade, which sees thousands of spectators gather to watch the little fellas waddle from the sea to their land-based nests at night.

Engines and animals aren’t all Phillip Island has to offer. Adrenaline junkies can bike, kayak, surf, swim, snorkel, and do battle in a round of paintball or laser strike. Don’t leave without visiting The Nobbies, land of boardwalks and vast coastal viewing, and Seal Rocks, home to the country’s largest Australian Fur Seal colony.

Skip the car and hop the train to Bendigo. Not only is the trip convenient, it makes the city’s period railway station your first point of contact, a fitting welcome to a town famed for its Victorian-era architecture. Visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine if you’re interested in learning more about Bendigo’s history as a gold mining boomtown, or explore the city’s Chinese heritage at the Golden Dragon Museum.

If art and culture are in the cards, pop into the Bendigo Art Gallery and wander the town’s View Street arts hub. Get your performing arts fill at the elegant Capital Theatre, built in 1873, and the new Ulumbarra Theatre. Venture just outside Bendigo to see the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, a Buddhist monument that, when finished, will be the largest of its kind anywhere in the Western world.

Great Ocean Road

One of the world’s greatest road trips is at the tip of your fingers – or the tip of your tire treads – from a home base in Melbourne. The 243-kilometre Great Ocean Road hugs Victoria’s coastline from Torquay to Allansford, winding through varying terrain and providing access to several prominent landmarks. Most famous are the dramatic rock formations known as the Twelve Apostles (a perennial favourite of Instagrammers from both near and far).

Along the way, you’ll pass mighty surf breaks, waterfalls, small seaside towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne, Bells Beach, the Gibson’s Steps, and Loch Ard Gorge. Opt for the helicopter flight for the most unbeatable view of the iconic coastline.

Why trust us? We have lived in Melbourne for 35 years.

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The 8 BEST Day Trips from Melbourne (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 3, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What to do on the Great Ocean Road

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

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

1. The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Yarra Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can get a reliable, cheap rental car here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. The Grampians National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our latest guide on the best Grampians walks !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Wilsons Promontory National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Melbourne Day Trips – Mornington Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mount Buller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the experts check out Slalom Gully or The FastOne .

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

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

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

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

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

Skyline Park is that happy medium between the two.

Summer is a whole different experience at Mount Buller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Phillip Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to do these Melbourne day trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melbourne day trips map

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

Day trips under 1 hour from Melbourne

1. yarra valley.

Distance from CBD: 58km / 1 hour

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

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

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

Don’t miss:

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

Best time to visit the Yarra Valley:

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

How to get to the Yarra Valley:

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

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

2. Healesville

Distance from CBD: 65km/1.25 hours

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Healesville:

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

How to get to Healesville

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

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

3. Dandenong Ranges

Distance from CBD: 50km / 1 hour

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Dandenong Ranges:

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

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

How to get to the Dandenong Ranges:

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

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

4. Macedon Ranges

Distance from CBD: 65km / 1 hour

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

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

Best time to visit the Macedon Ranges:

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

How to get to the Macedon Ranges:

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

Melbourne day trips 1-2 hours away

5. mornington peninsula.

Distance from CBD: 75km / 1.5 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Mornington Peninsula:

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

How to get to the Mornington Peninsula:

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

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

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

6. Bellarine Peninsula

Distance from CBD: 92km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit the Bellarine Peninsula:

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

How to get to the Bellarine Peninsula:

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

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

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

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

7. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Distance from CBD: 112km / 1.5 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

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

How to get to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

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

8. Torquay and Lorne

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit:

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

How to get to Torquay and Lorne:

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

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

9. Ballarat

Distance from CBD: 116km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Ballarat:

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

How to get to Ballarat:

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

10. Geelong

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

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

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

Best time to visit Geelong:

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

How to get to Geelong:

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

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

11. Castlemaine

Distance from CBD: 129km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Castlemaine:

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

How to get to Castlemaine:

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

12. Bendigo

Distance from CBD: 153km / just under 2 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Bendigo:

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

How to get to Bendigo:

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

13. Phillip Island

Distance from CBD: 142km / 2 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Phillip Island:

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

How to get to Phillip Island:

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

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

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

Day trips 2+ hours from Melbourne

14. great ocean road.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Great Ocean Road:

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

How to get to the Great Ocean Road:

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

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

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

15. Great Otway National Park

Distance from CBD: 211km / 2 ¾ hours

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

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

Best time to visit the Great Otway National Park:

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

How to get to the Great Otway National Park:

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

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

16. Gariwerd (Grampians National Park)

Distance from CBD: 258km / 3 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Grampians National Park:

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

How to get to Grampians National Park:

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

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

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

17. Wilsons Promontory

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Wilsons Promontory:

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

How to get to Wilsons Promontory:

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

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

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

Wrap up: Melbourne day trips

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

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

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

Related posts

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

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

Best Melbourne resources

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

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About THE AUTHOR

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

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• 12 Things to do in East Melbourne, Melbourne

East Melbourne is known for hosting the  Melbourne Cricket Ground, and there simply is no separating East Melbourne from its relationship with top-flight Australian sport. 

But sport is not all that is on East Melbourne’s scorecard. This Melbourne neighborhood prides itself on a generous offering of green parks that give locals and visitors access to the natural world – all within walking distance of the CBD. 

East Melbourne also has an eclectic range of cultural sites, unique museums, and attractions that exist nowhere else in the world. 

To help decipher this intriguing neighborhood, here is  the  list of things to do in East Melbourne .

Table of Contents

Melbourne Cricket Ground 

Address: Brunton Ave, Richmond VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @mcg

There is no better way to begin breaking down the top things to do in East Melbourne than with the landmark that is the  Melbourne Cricket Ground  – or the  MCG , as it is colloquially known. The stadium is integral to Melbourne, not just the East Melbourne suburb. 

The MCG is the largest cricket stadium in the Southern Hemisphere, with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators. Contrary to its name, however, it hosts much more than just cricket matches. The  MCG  is also home to several Melbourne Aussie Rules teams: Collingwood, Hawthorn, Melbourne, and Richmond. Being a shared stadium among rivals makes the  MCG  an electric venue through the Aussie Rules season – April to September. 

Then, come October, cricket season begins. Fans can attend everything from Twenty20 formats to annual international Test matches played by the national men’s and women’s teams. 

As if cricket and Aussie rules weren’t enough, the  MCG  also sporadically hosts rugby fixtures – both international union and the domestic league – and football matches. Sports fans are truly spoiled for choice.

But it doesn’t stop there.  Melbourne Cricket Ground  also hosts a generous offering of non-sporting entertainment – world-famous bands and community events. 

The  MCG  is nothing short of a foundational pillar of Melbournian culture. It exists at the epicenter of many friendships and relationships: groups of Richmond supporters and cricket enthusiasts that feed their love of the game during the winter season. 

If there were ever anything considered non-negotiable when exploring East Melbourne, it would be visiting the  MCG. If you cannot attend a game, be sure to book an MCG Tour, which runs regularly between 10:00am and 3:00pm.

Fitzroy Gardens

Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Melbourne makes a claim for itself as Australia’s ‘garden city,’ and  Fitzroy Gardens  exists in support of this statement.

Fitzroy Gardens provides 26 hectares of landscaped gardens just 1.5km from the very center of Melbourne’s CBD. Here, people step back from the concrete monotony and hustle of the inner city. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic or a park hang with friends, surrounded by the pleasantries of nature. The value of such proximity to open green spaces while still close to the city center cannot be understated. 

Few places in central Melbourne can even begin to equal the natural beauty of  Fitzroy Gardens  – it surely does separate itself as  the  park to visit near the CBD.

Parliament House

Address: Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @victorianparliament

East Melbourne is famed for hosting major sporting events. But the central neighborhood also earns significance as the home of Victoria’s Parliament –  Parliament House  being the epicenter of said Parliamentary district. 

Tourists with architectural interest will appreciate  Parliament House’s  columned façade, perhaps the most defining feature of the building constructed in 1856. 

History enthusiasts will find interest in the facility’s past. Melbourne’s  Parliament House  served as the meeting place for the Parliament of Australia between 1901 and 1927 – a period when Melbourne was the nation’s temporary capital. From 1928 to the present day, the building has remained just as the seat of the Victorian State Parliament. 

The free public tours that  Parliament House  hosts on non-sitting weeks are a great way to get a closer look at the inner workings of the Australian State Parliament. 

Cooks’ Cottage 

Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Cooks’ Cottage:  an English cottage deconstructed brick by brick and shipped to Melbourne in 253 cases and 40 barrels – now that is a unique story. Though, the intrigue does not end there. Before its grand voyage, the home was the family home of famous explorer James Cook – built and lived in by his parents, James and Grace Cook. 

Interestingly, Cooks’ Cottage is the oldest building in Australia, constructed in 1755 in Yorkshire, England. 

Cooks’ Cottage is an East Melbourne gem with its antiques, period-dressed volunteers, and depictions of Cook’s adventures. The Cottage nestles within the boundaries of  Fitzroy Gardens. 

The Scarred Tree and The Fairies Tree

Address: East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Let’s stay in  Fitzroy Gardens .

To prelude, when visiting Australia, it is greatly important to recognize the rightful and ancestral owners of the land – the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. That courtesy comes hand-in-hand with responsible and mindful travel. 

Fitzroy Gardens’  resident  Scar Tree  allows visitors to participate in this recognition and appreciation. The  Scar Tree  is one of many that exist within Victoria. It survives as a remembrance of Aboriginal life – Aboriginal people caused scars on trees when making canoes or shields. 

Fitzroy Gardens’ Scar Tree  is a landmark that should be on every traveller’s itinerary.

Then comes  The   Fairies Tree –  of less cultural importance but still a worthy East Melbourne landmark. The tree features a tapestry of intricate fantasy carvings ranging from fairies (of course) to gnomes, dwarfs, and even koalas and flying foxes.

In an effort to preserve  The Fairies Tree , the already dead trunk was extracted from the ground and treated with chemicals. It then was re-rooted in a concrete base to continue serving as an East Melbourne attraction.

The Tippler & Co.

Address: 58 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @tipplerandco

One of East Melbourne’s finest food and drink spots is The  Tippler & Co.  It’s one of the best spots for a pre- MCG  fuelling, a lunch with the whole family, or a midweek drink with friends.

Top tip:  The Tippler & Co.  holds happy hour from 5-7 pm during the week, and cocktails are a respectable $10 all day on Sundays.

From the Staff The favourite food is our Pan Fried Gnocchi! Made from Jones’ regenerative potatoes, sweet potato, sage burnt butter, lemon, pine nuts, chevre (v). All for $22 . Come by on Wednesdays for our 1/2 Price Gnocchi Night. – Gus at The Tippler & Co.

Fire Services Museum of Victoria

Address: 39 Gisborne St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

A rather unique museum, the  Fire Services Museum of Victoria  opened to display the history of fire fighting in the state of Victoria. The museum holds Australia’s most extensive collection of fire bridge memorabilia – a collection of over 10,000 items. A visit to the museum accommodates both adults and children. 

Treasury Gardens

Address: 2-18 Spring St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

East Melbourne continues its offering of relaxed, green spaces with  Treasury Gardens  – one of Victoria’s oldest public garden spaces that dates from the 1800s. The gardens themselves hold heritage listings and are noted for the avenues of trees that cross the walking paths. 

If you’ve already crossed  Fitzroy Gardens  off your itinerary,  Treasury Gardens  offer similar inner-city relaxation.

Heaven at the Hill

Address: 15 Gisborne St, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @heavenatthehill

Melbourne is known for its cafés. But  Heaven at the Hill  has accrued recognition for itself as a coffee caravan. 

You can find the not-for-profit social enterprise serving coffee and food on the corner of Gibson and Albert. Recognized as one of the top refueling spots in East Melbourne by the Australian Good Food Guide,  Heaven at the Hill  is a reliable option for anyone in the area. 

Australian Sports Museum 

Address: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Yarra Park, Gate 3 Brunton Ave, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @australiansportsmuseum

With East Melbourne’s affiliation with sport and the presence of the  MCG , it’s only fitting that visitors to the neighborhood should pay a visit to the resident  Australian Sports Museum. 

You can find the museum itself at the  MCG , so the walk from sporting history to live sports is short. With the emphasis on onsite interaction, the museum is ideal for all ages to celebrate sport’s involvement in Australian society. 

Geppetto Trattoria 

Address: 78A Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia ( Get Directions )

Social: @geppettotrattoria

Melbourne has a strong Italian presence, something owed to inter and post-war immigration. Carlton’s Lygon Street is the epicenter, but there are also Italian institutions further afield. East Melbourne’s  Geppetto Trattoria  is one of those institutions.  

Since 1981, the family-run traditional trattoria has cooked authentic Italian dishes with fresh local ingredients. 

With its good food and humble atmosphere,  Geppetto’s  success is rightfully earned. 

The Johnston Collection

Address: 192 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia (Get Directions)

Social: @tjcmuseum

If arts and culture are on your mind in East Melbourne, visiting  The Johnston Collection  is a must. 

The   Johnston Collection  is a multi-award-winning museum and exhibition space with numerous collections of decorative arts. 

You can find the museum at its residence in Fairhall on Wellington Parade. 

Final Thoughts

The presence of the MCG dominates East Melbourne. But with the stadium’s stellar offering of top-tier action, its notoriety is deserved. There are genuinely few things to do in Melbourne that produce the atmosphere that a one-day cricket international, or a Hawthorn vs Richmond Aussie rules fixture, does. Attendance to Australia’s largest stadium is recommended, even essential. 

But in beautiful contrast to the electric intensity of the national sport, East Melbourne also offers several laidback green spaces to its visitors. With its size and onsite attractions,  Fitzroy Gardens  arguably holds the torch as  the  place to relax near the CBD. But you cannot forget places like Treasury Gardens either. 

East Melbourne can often get lost amongst the ranks of Melbournian neighborhoods due to its more easygoing demeanor. But the truth is, East Melbourne is an area of the city in perfect balance that warrants a visit all on its own.

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Mum's Little Explorers

• Melbourne With Kids

13 Easy Day Trips from Melbourne for Families with Kids

by mumslittleexplorers · September 3, 2022

Looking for day trips from Melbourne? Whether you live in Melbourne or visiting the city with your family there are plenty of day trip ideas to choose from. Once you have seen the big sites and main attractions , you may want to head out on a day trip from Melbourne or into regional Victoria. There are so many day trips within Victoria, and with so many options, we have come up with the best day trips from Melbourne for families.

Day Trips from Melbourne for Families

There are so many things to do in Melbourne with kids and even more places where you can spend the day out of the city if you are happy to travel.

Whether you are wanting to get up close to wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas , relax on one of Melbourne’s beautiful beaches , see some beautiful waterfalls , or just want to explore a nearby city, you are really spoiled for options.

Check out our list of easy family day trips from Melbourne. Some within an hour or so, and a couple of long day trips from Melbourne if you are up for it

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1. Puffing Billy

Victoria’s iconic steam train and a family favourite is Puffing Billy . Climb aboard and travel through the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges , about an hour East of Melbourne.

Starting at Belgrave, travellers can stop for a picnic and water activities at Emerald Lake. Enjoy the fresh air and the views before continuing onto Gembrook.

The train ride on Puffing Billy itself is a highlight, but spending the day out in the fresh air with family and friends is the perfect way to spend the day. Make sure to check out their special events such as A Day out with Thomas , and the Santa Special .

2. Sovereign Hill

Learn about Victoria’s history when the gold rush hit Ballarat back in the 1850’s. Step back in time visiting Melbourne’s most amazing outdoor museum just a couple of hours from the city.

Sovereign Hill provides a full day of family entertainment and a very unique experience. Staff in “olden day” costumes will meet, greet and post for photos and then you can head of to dig for some real gold.

Take a stroll through the historical streets exploring what homes looked like, view a show at the Victorian Theatre and have lunch at the famous New York Bakery. A day trip from Melbourne to Sovereign Hill will be a hit with the whole family. If you are interested, read more about Sovereign Hill and the famous Winter Wonderlights every July.

There are also plenty of other things to do in Ballarat too while you are there. You can also check out Kryal Castle , and the Ballarat Wildlife Park too!

If you are looking for the best beaches near Melbourne, Torquay is a great option for a family day trip in regional Victoria. About an hour and a half from Melbourne, and your gateway to the Great Ocean Road and if you have a night or two, I highly suggest you take a weekend getaway to see the rest.

If you only have the day then visiting Torquay is perfect. Walk along the esplanade and enjoy a picnic on the grass, take a dip in the water or even have some surf lessons. After all Torquay is one of the best surf beaches near Melbourne.

You can even pass by Geelong on the way, or way home as it is quite close, and there are plenty of things to do in Geelong with kids too.

If you have longer, take the weekend and drive the rest of the Great Ocean Road itinerary.

4. Erskine Falls

A little further down the coast you can find the stunning Erskine Falls. About a 15 minute drive from the centre of Lorne into the Otway Ranges, these water falls which fall from 30 metres, are among the best waterfalls near Melbourne .

There are walks you can do to suit everyone no matter if your kids are younger or older.

Erskine Falls can attract a large crowd especially in peek periods so best to get there early. These waterfalls make a fun day out from Melbourne especially for those who love to get close to nature.

You can spend the morning there and then there are plenty of things to do in Lorne and around to spend the rest of your day.

5. Healesville Sanctuary

Home to a range of native Australian animals, Healesville Sanctuary is set in the stunning Yarra Valley, and makes an easy day trip for Melbourne for families with kids of all ages. Walking around you will see keepers with birds, snakes, and other animals that you can get up close to.

There are close up encounters where you can go behind the scenes with the iconic koalas and kangaroos. Check out the bird shows, and enjoy a picnic immersed in nature.

On the way home, make sure to stop in at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Gelateria for some sweet delights!

If you can stay the night, we highly recommend you go Glamping at Healesville Holiday Park !

6. Forest Glade Gardens

The Forest Glade Gardens in Mount Macedon are a perfect escape less than an hour from the city. Set on fourteen acres there are trails of maple trees, Japanese gardens and hikes down into the fern gully. The Forest Glade is recognised as one of Australia’s most beautiful private gardens but is still quite a hidden gem making it the perfect day trip from Melbourne for families. Bring some lunch and a mat, the gardens have the perfect setting for a picnic.

7. Fairy Park

Fairy Park is one of Victoria’s oldest themed parks , filled with traditional tales, myths, and legends and makes a fantastic day trip from Melbourne for families with young kids. Located only about an hour West of Melbourne on your way to Geelong , Fairy Park hasn’t changed much since opening years and years ago.

As you follow the path around, you are greeted with traditional scenes from the most well known fairy tales and stories. There are no screens, no modern technology. Kids simply push the button to listen, and use their imagination to create the story from the display setting.

8. Arthurs Seat

Around 90 minutes South East of Melbourne along the coast you will find Arthur’s Seat on the breathtaking Mornington Peninsula which makes a fantastic day trip from Melbourne for any traveller.

Head up on a gondola through the treetops to the summit of Arthur’s Seat, and take in some of the most stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. On a clear day, you can even see the outline of the city skyline.

Check out the Eagle Café where you can have a coffee and snack, then take a walk around up the top. If you want to make a full day out of it head to the Enchanted Adventure Garden and Maze for some adventure.

Keen to stay over? Make sure to check out the Iluka Retreat if you are up for some Glamping.

9. Lake Mountain

Just under 2 hours from Melbourne near Marysville in the Yarra Valley , you can find Lake Mountain Resort which has plenty of family-friendly activities available all year round.

Lake Mountain is the easiest day trip from Melbourne to see snow , not to mention the perfect mountain for beginners and families to experience snow.

There’s plenty of things to do on the mountain during winter including tobogganing, tube run, snowshoeing and winter walks, children’s snowboarding lessons and cross-country skiing lessons. There are even snow play areas for children and families to build snowmen and have snowball fights. 

During summertime, there’s plenty of activities for you to enjoy including mountain bike riding, bushwalking, orienteering, laser skirmish or even going for a ride on the flying fox.

10. Queenscliff

Queenscliff is about a 2.5 hour drive from Melbourne and makes a fun day out with the kids with lots to see and do. Take a ride on the Bellarine Railway and visit the marine and freshwater discovery centre. Or just head to one of the parks for some fish and chips or a picnic, or go for a swim in the beach.

As Queenscliff is directly across from Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula, you actually have 2 options depending on which way you travel from.  

You can either head down the West coast passed Geelong , or down the East coast around to Sorrento and catch the ferry over. The ferry will add to the cost of your trip however the kids will love the trip over.

11. Daylesford

Another day trip from Melbourne for nature lovers. Daylesford, which is famed for its naturally occurring mineral springs is great for a day trip or even a weekend getaway.

Visit one of the waterfalls, have a picnic by the lake, go on a forest walk, or visit the Wombat Hill botanical gardens. There is also a chocolate hill close by too which the kids will love.

Daylesford is a place where you can plan a day packed full of adventure, or just relax and enjoy your surroundings breathing in that gorgeous fresh air.

12. Penguin Parade at Phillip Island

If you don’t mind a longer drive check out the penguins at Phillip Island. Tucked over in the South East around 2.5 hours from Melbourne is Phillip Island where you can experience the famous penguin parade on the coast after sunset. One of the most popular day trips from Melbourne with families, Phillip Island won’t disappoint.

If you can stay over and make a weekend out of it, it is worth it, otherwise you want to start early to make the most of your day at Phillip Island. For nature lovers take one of the hikes or coastal walks on the island, visit the Koala Conservation Centre, or head over to Churchill Island. Otherwise you can head to Amaze’n Things , or even Go Karting .

The penguin parade is in the evening, so prepared to arrive back late. For more ideas check out our post on what to do in Phillip Island .

13. Halls Gap

If you are a nature loving family and love to walk or trek, Halls Gap is your best based to explore the Grampians National Park. A slightly longer day trip from Melbourne, about 2.5 hours, so you want to make sure you start early as there is a lot to do.

You can find some of the best waterfalls in Victoria in the Grampians. For family friendly walks and hikes check out the Venus Baths, and Mackenzie falls, which are perfect for families with young kids.

For those with older children, you can do the full loop and visit the famous Pinnacle. See our full post on what to see in Halls Gap.

Family Day Trips from Melbourne

We are always keen to try out new family day trips in Victoria. These are our favourite family day trips from Melbourne. Can you recommend any other day trips from Melbourne for families? Let us know!

• Best weekend getaways from Melbourne
• Best places to see in Victoria

Looking for other things to do with kids in and around Melbourne? Follow us on Facebook , Pinterest , or see our Melbourne for Kids page.

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3 days in Melbourne

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Discover Melbourne’s gourmet gems, legendary sports, lively music venues and world-class art scene during this three-day city escape.

By Amy Fraser

The must-do experiences

• Discover Melbourne’s laneway secrets
• Feel the city come to life at a sporting event
• Experience the city’s celebrated culinary scene

Day 1: City centre and South Bank

Melbourne’s cool, quirky character permeates through the entire city – its colourful laneways, trendy cafés and legendary live music venues. Here’s how to get yourself acquainted with Melbourne.

Where to stay in Melbourne

Whether you are looking for a buzzing city hotel or a discrete neighbourhood hideaway, Melbourne’s best hotels have you covered.

Read time • 5min

Day 2: Melbourne’s south-east

Hop on a tram to experience Melbourne’s laid-back beach suburbs and the Royal Botanic Garden’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 3: Melbourne’s east and north suburbs

Melbourne’s surrounding suburbs are full of surprises, from hip craft breweries to lively rooftop bars and exhilarating sports events. Here’s how to spend your final day in Melbourne.

Melbourne suburb guide

From laid-back seaside suburbs to the city centre’s street art-clad laneways, Melbourne’s neighbourhoods are as eclectic as they are exciting.

Read time • 4min

Explore more nearby

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne

Looking for a fun day out with your dog around Melbourne ? No matter if you’d prefer to head to the beaches or the mountains, stay close to the city or head out on a road trip, I’ve got plenty of ideas for dog-friendly day trips all around Melbourne, all within a 2 hour drive of the city centre. Which one of these fun ideas will you next tick off with your pup?

1. Explore Melbourne’s Street Art

Melbourne is deservedly world famous for its street art. And spending a few hours exploring it on foot is actually a fabulous activity to do with your pup. Unlike art galleries, there’s no rules against pets walking down laneways!

The most well-known destination for street art in Melbourne is Hosier Lane in the city centre, not far from Federation Square. I also highly recommend the nearby ACDC Lane and Duckboard Place, which are generally less crowded. Combine a wander on foot with your dog with a visit to a dog-friendly cafe, whether in one of the city laneways or along the banks of the Yarra.

If you’d prefer to not head all the way into the city centre, there’s also lots of great examples in other inner city suburbs, ideal for combining with brunch at a cafe or a drink at a local pet-friendly pub. 

Find out more about staying in the Melbourne CBD with your dog

2. Go Hiking in the You Yangs

If you’d prefer a walk amongst nature rather than gritty alleyways, one of the best destinations to head to just outside of Melbourne is the You Yangs Regional Park . Located less than an hour from the centre of Melbourne, this regional park welcomes dogs to join you, as long as they stay on a leash.

The You Yangs were named after the local Aboriginal word for “big mountain in the middle of the plain”. The most popular walking track in the park heads to the summit of Flinders Peak. From the top of this granite outcrop there’s superb views back towards Melbourne and across the Bellarine Peninsula. The 3.5km return walk takes about an hour to complete, with lots of steps along the way. 

There’s also a variety of both shorter and longer walks, including some flatter options. One easier option is the 800m circuit around Big Rock. Don’t also miss the short walk to the top of this granite outcrop, just a 100m stroll from the carpark. There’s also plenty of picnic areas in the park. 

3. Enjoy a Pugichino and Treats at Miss Drew’s

A cute destination to visit on a weekend day trip from Melbourne, that your pup will simply love, is Miss Drew’s Bakery and Dog Cafe on the Mornington Peninsula. Located behind the Tyabb Packing House and surrounded by antique shops, the dog cafe is open on Saturdays and Sundays. (It’s best to double check the opening hours in advance.) 

On the menu are a range of treats for your dog, from pugichinos to muffins and cookies. Perhaps order one of their meal deals for your dog and enjoy it at one of the many tables. There’s also a shop selling treats and toys, and the option to order dog birthday cakes.

While there aren’t any human options on the menu, instead step across the path to the Rattling Red Cafe opposite and grab your own takeaway coffee. 

4. Spend the Day at St Kilda

St Kilda has long been a popular day trip destination in Melbourne, and it’s also a terrific destination to visit with your pup. While your dog won’t be allowed on the rides at Luna Park amusement park, instead take a walk along the pier (where dogs are allowed on a leash) and enjoy the surrounding beaches. 

The closest dog-friendly beach at St Kilda is on the western side of the pier, near Pier Road until the draining channel. Here dogs are allowed off-leash all day long, year round. To the eastern side of the pier dogs are only allowed on the sand during winter. Dogs are also allowed year round on the sand at St Kilda West, except for the sensitive dune area, plus in between Brooks Jetty and the northern end of the St Kilda Marina car park. 

If you visit St Kilda on a Sunday, make sure you check out the market stalls along the Esplanade. Plus make sure you detour over to Grey Street and visit Chez Misty . This French creperie has a whole menu of crepes and puppyccinos just for dogs, as well as savoury galettes and sweet crepes for humans. Out the back are couches for canines, while there is also an indoor off-leash relaxing room.

5. Enjoy Paddle & Brunch at St Kilda

Chez Misty isn’t just a dog-friendly creperie, they also offer Paddle and Brunch events for adventurous pups. You’ll first of all enjoy a 1-hour Stand Up Paddleboard session with your pup, then breakfast together back at Chez Misty.

Over the 2022-23 summer, Paddle and Brunch ran on multiple days per month, a mixture of Saturdays and weekdays. Keep an eye out for the 2023-24 calendar. Groups are kept to a small size of four humans and dogs, plus life jackets are included and a SUP lesson from Karen from SUPs for PUPs. Naturally, plenty of photos are also taken!

Want more opportunities to learn paddleboarding with you pup? Check out the wide variety of lessons offered by SUPS for Pups , both at Bayside and the Mornington Peninsula. They even offer dog swimming lessons for less confident pups!

6. Go Punting in the Botanic Gardens

A wonderful dog-friendly destination in the centre of Melbourne are the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne Gardens. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll around the gardens, whether around the ornamental lake, through the fern gully or past the “volcano”.

Another highlight of a visit to the Botanic Gardens is enjoying a punt on the lake . Private guided punt tours generally last 30-minutes, and run between September and May. The punts can hold up to six passengers, and well-behaved dogs can join you for free. There’s even an Instagram account devoted to the dogs on the punt tours! 

It’s best to book in advance, at least during holiday periods. The punts depart from the landing in front of the Terrace Cafe. 

7. Head to Altona Dog Beach

Another popular dog-friendly beach in Melbourne is Altona Dog Beach , just west of the city and Williamstown.

Dogs are allowed off-leash all day long, year round, both on the beach and in the adjacent fenced PA Burns Reserve off-leash park. However, dogs need to be on leash in the carpark area and on the paths to the beach, plus stay completely out of the conservation areas.

It’s best to visit at low tide, when it’s possible to wade with your dog a long way off-shore. Afterwards, make use of the dog wash-down area next to the carpark, with multiple spraying taps at different heights for all sizes of dogs. 

For more dog-friendly beaches, check out my selection of the best dog-friendly beaches in Victoria

8. Explore Yarra Bend Park

Yarra Bend Park is only 4km northeast of Melbourne’s CBD, but is home to the largest area of natural bushland left in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. The park is situated on both banks of the Yarra River, which takes a meandering 12km path through the park.

There’s a wide variety of walks on offer in the park, from the 850m-long Bushland Circuit Trail to the 9.5km-long combined Dights Falls Trail and Westfield Extension. For a listing, download the visitor guide from the website . There’s also multiple picnic areas. 

Dogs are permitted in most areas of Yarra Bend Park, although there are some areas where they are excluded. There are also a number of off-leash areas – check the signage, and make sure you always carry a leash. The best spot for a doggie swim in the river is just below Deep rock.

Interested in taking your pup out on the river? Head to the Fairfield Boathouse , where you can rent boats, canoes and kayaks, and bring along your pup. The outdoor tables at the tea rooms are also dog-friendly.  

9. Stroll Around Lake Daylesford

Daylesford is a popular weekend destination from Melbourne, but it’s also close enough for a day trip, with the drive from the centre of Melbourne taking about 80 minutes. Renowned for its mineral springs and fine dining, the top dog-friendly activity in Daylesford is taking a stroll around Lake Daylesford.

It takes about an hour to complete the full circuit around the lake, which is largely flat and just under 3km long. There’s multiple carpark options along the way, at Foreshore, Fulcher Street and Wombat Flat, or else it’s an easy walk from the centre of town. Note that dogs need to be kept on a leash. 

Along the way, stop and sample some of the local spring water.  Take a short detour down to Central Springs Reserve, where there’s an historic hand pump you can use to fill up your bottle, or stop at the Wombat Flat Mineral Spring. 

Find out more about taking a  dog-friendly getaway to Daylesford

10. Enjoy High Tea in Olinda

A gorgeous spot in the Dandenong Ranges is the Olinda Tea House . Situated high in the ranges, this architecturally stunning tea house serves up delightful high teas, and not just for humans.

There’s also a special afternoon tea for four-legged guests, featuring a range of treats including peanut butter cookies and cranberry chews, as well as a puppacino. While humans will enjoy the savoury and sweet options including bottomless scones.

After licking up all the crumbs, enjoy a walk through the historic flower gardens and forests that surround the tea house. During summer days when the weather is fine, there’s also the option of upgrading to a picnic experience in the gardens or the garden gazebo.

11. Go Picnicking at Hanging Rock

Just over an hour north of Melbourne is Hanging Rock , made famous by the novel and subsequent film, “Picnic at Hanging Rock”. 

The reserve contains large picnic grounds, perfect for a picnic with your pup. There’s also multiple walking tracks, including the popular walk to the summit of Picnic Rock. Note however that dogs are not allowed to ascend to the rock itself on the Summit Walk, so stick to the lower parts of the walk or instead follow the 1.8km-long Base Walk or the 2.3km-long Creek Walk.

Note that the reserve charges an entry fee, either per vehicle or per individual if you enter on foot. Pets are not allowed on major event days, otherwise they simply need to stay on a leash. 

12. Or Climb to Camel’s Hump

Another park with dog-friendly walking trails close to Hanging Rock is the Macedon Regional Park , situated just to the south and containing the forested heights of the Macedon Ranges. There’s a wide variety of walking trails in the park, from the 200m stroll to Memorial Cross from next to the tea rooms to the 30km loop track that links all the major sites in the park.

One of the best short dog-friendly walks is the short hike up to Camels Hump, the highest point in the Macedon Ranges. It’s a moderate hike through bushland with beautiful views from the lookout at the summit, across to Hanging Rock and the surrounding countryside. However, it’s only 1km, so can easily be completed in 20-30 minutes. 

Before or after, enjoy a picnic with your dog in one of the many picnic grounds, or explore the other dog-friendly attractions of the Macedon Ranges . Make sure you keep your dog on a leash in the park. 

13. Ride an Historic Train

There’s multiple historic train rides located not that far from Melbourne where you can enjoy a ride with your dog. 

Probably the closest option to Melbourne is Puffing Billy in the Dandenong Ranges, departing from Emerald Station, just over an hour east of Melbourne. However, dogs are only permitted on board the Puffing Billy Dog Express that runs one or two days a month and quickly sells out.

Alternatively, head north to Castlemaine and ride on the Victoria Goldfields Railway, taking the 45 minute journey to the historic village of Maldon. Dogs are permitted on the Excursion Class carriages, at the discretion of the Station Master, but not the First Class carriages.

Walhalla is about 2.5 hours drive east of Melbourne, but well worth the longer drive. The historic gold mining town is home to the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, with trains running on Wednesdays, weekends, public holidays and school holidays. It’s a scenic 4km ride through a narrow gorge each direction.

There are also more historic dog-friendly train rides at Daylesford and Queenscliff, on the Bellarine Peninsula. For more information, see my guide to dog-friendly historic train rides in Australia . 

14. Go Underground at Walhalla

While Walhalla is closer to 2.5 hours drive from the centre of Melbourne, like I mentioned above, it’s well worth the slightly longer road trip, as the historic train rides aren’t the only dog-friendly attraction in this historic gold mining town.

Well-behaved dogs are also welcome to join you on the underground tour of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine . Once one of the highest producing gold mines in Australia, these days you can take a 45-minute tour through the original workings, hearing fascinating stories from your guide along the way. Tours run daily, with a single tour on most weekdays but multiple tours on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays.

It’s also worthwhile taking a wander through the historic town centre of Walhalla, reading the many signs explaining the town’s history. If you have time, follow the Tramline Walkway with your pup, which starts opposite the old post office, then runs for 700m to the entrance of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine.

Find out more about visiting Walhalla with a dog

15. Visit McClelland’s Sculpture Park

For an arty dog-friendly experience on the edge of Melbourne, head to McClelland’s Sculpture Park near Frankston. While dogs are not allowed inside the galleries also located on the site, leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll around the sculpture park.

The sculpture park is surprisingly large, with nearly 100 sculptures installed in the bushland setting. Make sure you pick up one of the brochures with maps, so that you explore the far reaches of the site, as well as the large kinetic sculptures on the front lawn. For more information, download one of the free audio guided tours.

Note that there is a small admission charge, which covers both the sculpture park and the galleries. There’s a small cafe onsite, as well as plenty of room to enjoy a picnic. 

16. Go Leash-Free at the Briars Community Forest

If you keep on driving past Frankston, you’ll arrive at the Mornington Peninsula proper. While I didn’t find this popular weekend destination on the edge of Melbourne that dog-friendly (most of the beaches don’t allow dogs, especially during summer), it is home to a superb off-leash dog park.

The Briars Community Forest takes off-leash dog walking in a fenced area to the next level, and is a must-visit for dogs on the Peninsula. This huge bushland reserve on the edge of Mount Martha is entirely fenced and contains multiple walking tracks, even a creek swimming spot. Perhaps head here after a visit to Miss Drew’s Bakery and Dog Cafe (see #3)?

The best spot to park is on the Nepean Highway opposite Balcombe Grammar School, where there’s a rough car park, rubbish bin and a double-gated entrance. Search for the “Community Forest Fenced Dog Park” pin on Google Maps. 

Find out more about dog-friendly attractions on the Mornington Peninsula

17. Stroll Along the Geelong Foreshore

It’s an easy 80-minute drive the opposite direction from Melbourne to Geelong. While Geelong is often overlooked in favour of the Great Ocean Road that starts just past it, it is home to a beautiful waterfront that makes for a great dog-friendly stroll.

From the visitor information centre at the Carousel, it’s a flat 950m walk to Eastern Beach. Dogs are allowed on the sand and in the water at Eastern Beach, as long as they are kept on a leash. Along the way, perhaps detour onto the recently opened Wangim Walk. This 440m-long Wave Attenuator partially enclosing the yacht club is a chance to walk on water!

Just past Eastern Beach are the Geelong Botanic Gardens , located in the larger Eastern Park. Dogs are welcome in the gardens, as long as they are kept on a leash, including at the outdoor tables at the small tea house. The gardens are home to many heritage-listed trees and avenues, as well as a new 21st Century Garden.

All over Geelong, don’t miss spotting the colourfully decorated bollards, with over 100 installed in between Limeburners Point and Rippleside Park.

18. Head to Fisherman’s Beach in Torquay

While leashed dogs are allowed on Eastern Beach in Geelong all year round, during much of the year it’s worthwhile driving a little further past Geelong to Fishermans Beach in Torquay, for a fabulous beach day trip with your dog.

Between December and February, plus over Easter, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9am and after 7pm. However, during the rest of the year dogs are allowed all day long on this wonderful ocean-facing beach.

The beach is large enough for a beach stroll, plus for your pup to enjoy a doggie paddle with plenty of space. Before or after, drop into the Salty Dog Cafe located right next to the beach access track. This cafe is very popular with dog owners, with dogs welcome at the outdoor tables and plenty of water bowls on hand. 

19. Visit Forest Glade Gardens

During the Autumn months, Mount Macedon is a popular destination for viewing its colourful Autumn leaves and enjoying its cooler climate. However, Mount Macedon is also worthwhile to visit anytime of year with your dog, thanks to the dog-friendly Forest Glade Gardens .

These privately owned gardens are open daily and were gorgeous on the late spring day that we visited. Allow an hour or more to stroll around the many gardens, including the Japanese-style gardens that are a particular highlight. 

Make sure you bring cash for the entry fee, plus also respect the owners of the property, keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after it. Car parking is on the side of Mount Macedon Road and can be difficult on busy days. 

20. Hike to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls

About a two-hour drive east of Melbourne is the Toorongo Falls Reserve at Noojee. While dogs aren’t allowed in the Yarra Ranges National Park to the north, dogs are allowed at Tooroongo Falls Reserve (including off-leash, as long as they are under effective control).

The highlight of a visit to the reserve is the Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk , that visits the viewing platforms for the close-by Toorongo Falls and the more distant Ampthitheatre Falls. The entire track is 2.2km long and takes about an hour, passing through beautiful rainforest.

While the dog-friendly falls are best viewed after periods of rain, note that the track can get muddy and slippery underfoot, so make sure you pack a towel to clean off your pup.

21. Go Wine Tasting in the Yarra Valley

There’s multiple superb wine regions on the doorstep of Melbourne, but one of the best and the most dog-friendly is the Yarra Valley, the oldest wine region in Victoria. 

It’s just over an hour’s drive to the Yarra Valley, with most vineyards scattered around the towns of Coldstream, Healesville and Yarra Glen. Many of the cellar doors are open daily, and also welcome well-behaved dogs to join you, either outside or even inside. 

To take the hassle out of organising a wine tasting tour, I recommend booking a dog-friendly private winery tour with a company such as Pooches and Pinot . They can organise an itinerary for you, taking into account your tastes and recommending the best dog-friendly wineries, with both half-day and full-day options available. 

Find out more about visiting the Yarra Valley with a dog

22. Or Take a Dog-Friendly Winery Bus Tour

Another option for a dog-friendly day tour where you don’t need to drive are the Gourmet Pawprints Tours on Bella the Dog Welcoming Bus.

Gourmet Pawprints operates tours to multiple wine regions, including the Mornington Peninsula, and the Yarra Valley. They also operate an increasing variety of other tours, from city exploration tours to picnic days out. Check out the latest calendar .

On each tour, there is a charge per human, plus a small charge per dog – up to $25. On board the bus are dog seat belts, seat covers and blankets, plus facilitated dog socialisation before boarding. On winery tours, dogs will also enjoy their own treats, water and a movie over lunch.

23. Explore the Ruins of Maldon

It’s an easy 1hr 40 minute drive from central Melbourne to the former gold mining village of Maldon. Australia’s First Notable Town, after being classified by the National Trust in 1966, it’s a great destination for a dog-friendly day trip.

Take a wander through the main street of the historic town, which is largely unchanged since the 19th-century. There’s plenty of small boutiques and cafes that line the main street. Many of the cafes have dog-friendly tables out the front, or else the beer garden at the Maldon Hotel is pet-friendly.

Don’t also miss exploring the gold ruins adjacent to the township, within the Maldon Historic Reserve, including around the Beehive Mine Chimney immediately to the north. Make sure you pick up a brochure with a map in town. It’s also possible to visit Maldon on the pet-friendly Victorian Goldfield Railways departing Castlemaine (see #12).

24. Visit a Former Gold Mine in Bendigo

Maldon isn’t the only dog-friendly gold mining town in central Victoria, with the city of Bendigo a superb dog-friendly destination and under 2 hours drive from Melbourne. Along with the dog-friendly Vintage Talking Trams, one of the highlights of a visit to Bendigo is visiting the Central Deborah Gold Mine .

While dogs are not surprisingly not permitted on the underground mine tours, they’re welcome to join you on leash in exploring the surface of the former gold mine for free, including ascending halfway up the poppet head along the trestle way (if they can be carried up the stairs). View the original change rooms, blacksmith’s shop and engine room, although staff ask you to minimise time in the museum with your dog.

To explore more of Bendigo’s gold mining heritage, head to the Victoria Hill Historic Mining Reserve. A popular spot for dog walking, the reserve contains a number of old mining relics, including some open cut mines. Park at the carpark on the Calder Highway, where entrance is open from 9am to sunset (during daylight savings time) or 5pm (the rest of the year). 

25. Explore the Western World’s Largest Stupa

The sights of Bendigo aren’t limited to gold mining ruins. One of the most surprising attractions just outside of town is the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion , the largest stupa in the Western World.

Currently under construction about 15 minutes west of Bendigo, the stupa is based on the Gyantse Stupa in Tibet and is surrounded by the Peace Park Gardens, which contains many monuments from a variety of faiths.

Another surprise is that pets are welcome to join you in visiting the stupa, both outside and even inside. (Although this may change once the construction of the interior is complete.) The stupa is open daily, entry by donation, and there is a cafe onsite with plenty of dog-friendly tables.

Find out more about visiting Bendigo with a dog

26. Enjoy a Cruise on the Yarra

To view Melbourne from a different viewpoint, take a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River. And you don’t need to leave your dog behind, with Melbourne River Cruises permitting dogs on board their public Yarra River Cruises . (Note that dogs aren’t permitted on other cruises, including dinner and special event cruises.)

Choose between a one-hour cruise up or down river, visiting either the Port and Docklands or River Gardens precinct, both departing from the Southbank Promenade. Alternatively, combine both together on a 2-hour Melbourne Highlights Cruise. Twilight and sunset cruises are also available during summer.

Cruises operate seven days per week, multiple times per day. Make sure your dog stays on a leash and is well behaved.

27. Or Hire Your Own Boat

If you’d prefer to drive your own boat in Melbourne with your dog on-board consider hiring one of the pet-friendly picnic boats from GoBoat .

Accomodating up to eight people and not requiring a boat license, the luxury electric picnic boats can be hired for between one and three hours, with optional extras including cheese boards and esky hires. BYO picnic and drinks!

GoBoat Melbourne is located on the northern side of the Yarra River, on Banana Alley near Sandridge Bridge. If bringing your dog along, considering packing a doggie life-jacket. Alternatively, it’s easy to attach your dog’s leash to the base of the picnic table.

28. Visit an Historic Botanic Garden

In the latest 19th century, it became the fashion that any well-to-do town in Victoria would have their own botanic garden, both for the propagation of European plant species and a place for locals to spend their leisure time. Many of these are still wonderfully-maintained, and also welcome leashed dogs to join you.

Some of the best historic botanic gardens to visit around Melbourne include fine examples in Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Castlemaine. Pack a picnic and hop into your car with your pup to enjoy a country outing at any of these gardens.

The Kyneton Botanic Gardens contains many large National Trust-listed trees, plus are adjacent to the Campaspe River with a wonderful riverside walk. At Malmsbury, don’t miss the views of the grand Malmsbury Viaduct, located at the southern edge of the gardens. The Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens in Daylesford contain a short scenic drive loop, plus the dog-friendly Wombat Hill Cafe. 

29. Hike the George Bass Coastal Walk

For a scenic dog-friendly walking track along the coast, head just over 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne to the George Bass Coastal Walk, located near Phillip Island .

The 7km-long walking track is accessible from either end. Either head to the Shelley Beach Carpark just off the Bass Highway at Kilcunda or to the end of the unsealed Punchbowl Road near San Remo. It takes about 4 hours to complete the entire 14km walk, or else just walk partway and then return along the same route.

While dogs are permitted on leash and it’s well-known as a dog-friendly walk, keep an eye out for signs about 1080 baiting. Baits had been recently laid at the Punchbowl Road end when we visited in November 2021, although there were no signs at the other end. This likely only occurs once a year. 

30. Watch a Movie by Moonlight

Every year, the Moonlight Cinema sets up its screen at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. And if you have a well-behaved pooch who can stay quiet while watching a movie, they’re welcome to join you on your picnic rug. Dogs are welcome in all sections, including premium areas.

With screenings starting at sundown, I know my dog would likely sleep through most of the screening! Just remember to keep your dog on a short leash, and clean up after them. Sometimes special canine-themed movies are even screened throughout the season, which runs from November to March – check the program when its released.

31. Go on a Puppy Pub Crawl

Melbourne is home to plenty of dog-friendly pubs, so why not take your pup on a pub crawl? Puppy Pub Crawl organises group pub crawls for dogs and their owners, visiting some of the best pet-friendly establishments around Melbourne. The pub crawls are also a great opportunity to socialise, both for the pups and the humans.

Regular pub crawls take place all over Melbourne, from St Kilda to Footscray, Collingwood to Prahran. Dogs are provided with doggie cocktails and treats at each venue, with drinks specials and snacks available for humans.

The latest dates are all listed on their Eventbrite page , where you can make a booking for you and your pup. Or stay up to date with the latest announcements on their Facebook page .

32. Chill at a Beach Club

During the long days of summer, a hip place to hang out with your pup is at West Beach Pavilion at St Kilda West Beach. Dogs are allowed on this stretch of sand all day long, but why just laze on the sand when you can rent a sun lounge at the beach club?

The beach club is daily during the summer, from September to March. The sun lounges are suitable for up to four people sitting or two people laying.

Bookings are taken, plus walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability. No booking fee applies, although there is a no show fee. There are also cabanas and party lounges available for larger groups for a booking fee.

Although the beach club is closed over the winter months, the West Beach Pavilion stays open year round until at least sunset, with dogs welcome in outdoor areas.

You May Also Like

• Top Dog-Friendly Short Walks in Victoria
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Victoria
• Beautiful Dog-Friendly Gardens in Victoria to VIsit
• Fun Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Country Victoria

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

1 thought on “32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne”

I love reading about all the great places to go with my dog around Melbourne! Thanks for sharing!

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