Enjoy your Best Melbourne Day Trip
Melbourne is famous for its fantastic dining, friendly atmosphere, café culture, laneways and abundance of culture and creativity. It is not only beautiful, but the gateway to some of Australia’s best natural wonders and beautiful and charming regional towns and villages.
Melbourne is surrounded by stunning landscapes that provide a unique experience from what the bustling city has to offer. The secret is out, and getting out of town for a short break is the perfect cure for those looking to experience everything that Victoria has to offer. Look no further, as our ultimate guide will tell you everything you need to know about the best day tours from Melbourne to help you plan your next journey.
Prepare to be spoilt for choice and for everything from dramatic coastlines to quaint wineries and charming rural towns, Melbourne day trips are full of adventure for every type of traveller.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you the best journeys to inspire and help plan your next getaways. Discover Victoria’s best-kept secrets and plan your next short weekend break. The good thing about these short breaks is that they’re easy to prepare, as Melbourne is one of the most accessible regions for day travellers who are a short drive away.
Get ready to be amazed and delighted by Victoria’s natural wonders, as Melbourne is only the beginning. Your next adventure is closer than you think.
Welcome to Your Next Adventure: Why Go on Day Tours from Melbourne
Day tours from Melbourne are the ideal way to escape the big city and experience Victoria from a different perspective. Escape the busy city and make the most of everything Victoria has to offer with an incredible one-day escape. Day trips from Melbourne are a great way to spend a little time out of the city and explore a variety of experiences, from Victoria’s stunning coastline to picturesque rural towns and everything in between. Don’t take our word for it, though.
So, whether you live in Melbourne and are looking to explore and experience everything Victoria has to offer, or you’ve extended your vacation past Melbourne and don’t want to waste any time, day excursion from Melbourne are the best way to experience everything the region has to offer.
Take a short break from city life and indulge in incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and world-class food and wine that Melbourne is surrounded by. The perfect escape from the big city will leave you with a renewed sense of awe for the stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Each journey offers its own brand of adventure, providing adrenaline rushes and relaxation and helping to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Step outside and get ready to explore your next day trip from Melbourne with our picks for some of the best Victoria has to offer.
Top Picks for the Best Day Trips Near Melbourne
Victoria has something for everyone, making the region an ideal destination for day tours Melbourne. To make things easy, we’ve narrowed it down to some of the best day trip destinations that cover everything Victoria has to offer and make for the perfect one-day trip. Let’s go, it’s time to start filling that itinerary.
The good thing about these spots is that they’re some of the best destinations in Victoria because they have so much to see and do. Whether you like your adventures filled with adrenaline, delicious food, and wine, or beautiful scenery, these must-see day trips have got you covered.
So no matter what you’re looking for, these top picks for day trips from Melbourne cover everything Victoria has to offer. It’s time to plan your next day trip so you can start experiencing the hidden gems of Victoria.
Coastal Wonders: Day Trip to the Great Ocean Road & Beyond
The Great Ocean Road is the most iconic drive you’ll ever experience and an absolute must-see for nature and beach lovers. This incredible coastal drive takes you past stunning cliff tops, gorgeous surf beaches, and lush coastal rainforests. The best scenic drives in the Great Ocean Road will take you along the beautiful coastal route and require a lot of stops at the many scenic lookouts. Because it’s so long, it’s best to start early to make the most of the day.
The star attraction of the Great Ocean Road, of course, is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of giant limestone rock stacks that rise out of the Southern Ocean. There are also a number of nearby attractions, including the stunning Loch Ard Gorge, which is both a significant shipwreck site and a great place for photos. You can also take a scenic coastal walk and get up close to the rock stacks.
Phillip Island: Famous for wildlife, stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions
Phillip Island is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne due to its accessibility and abundance of wildlife and family-friendly activities. Phillip Island is best known for its famous Penguin Parade, in which hundreds of little penguins march up the beach at sunset every night. Booking penguin parade tickets in advance is essential as it can get very busy, particularly in peak season.
Phillip Island has many other wildlife attractions, including the Koala Conservation Reserve, where you can observe koalas in their natural habitat from the lookout boardwalk. You can also take a boat tour to see Australia’s largest seal colony at Seal Rocks or take a tour to Churchill Island and explore a working heritage farm with incredible gardens. Phillip Island also offers beautiful beaches and a number of animal encounters that make it a great family-friendly attraction.
Wine, Wildlife and Whimsy: Day trips to Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges
The Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are a combination of gourmet paradise and rural escape. The Yarra Valley is Victoria’s oldest and most famous wine region, and is home to many world-class wineries, perfect for experiencing all of the delicious food and wine. Yarra Valley also has many vineyards with fantastic restaurants and cellar doors for wine tasting.
The majestic Dandenong Ranges, however, offer towering mountain ash forests and small villages such as Sassafras and Olinda. You can even take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy steam train that chugs its way through the fern gullies. Other popular places to visit include the Healesville Sanctuary, an open bushland setting for Australian wildlife and home to a number of beautiful gardens for you to explore. The Dandenong Ranges offer a whimsical dose of natural charm and a sophisticated dose of gourmet indulgence in one unique package.
Step Back in Time: Sovereign Hill Ballarat
Sovereign Hill in Ballarat is a living museum that takes you straight back to the 1850s gold rush era. Wander the recreated streets filled with costumed characters, try your hand at gold panning, or take an underground mine tour to see how fortunes were once made. The daily gold pour demonstration is a highlight, showcasing a spectacular molten transformation into a solid gold bar. Beyond history, Sovereign Hill also offers sweet treats at its old-fashioned confectionery shop and stunning evening sound-and-light shows. It’s an immersive and educational experience perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone looking to relive Victoria’s golden past.
Beachside Bliss & Relaxation: Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is a perfect choice for a day trip when you’re after a dose of sun, sand, and healing waters. This picturesque peninsula is known for its stunning coast, cute coastal towns such as Sorrento and Portsea, and indulgent experiences. The Mornington Peninsula is one of the best relaxation day trips you’ll ever find.
Visit the Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural geothermal pools for a revitalising experience. Other things to do on the Mornington Peninsula include lavender farms with mazes to explore, farm gates, and artisanal food producers. There are also incredible coastal walks along the peninsula where you can enjoy panoramic views over Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait. It’s also the perfect place to just kick back, relax and soak up the fresh sea air.
Embrace Winter Wonders: Best Melbourne Day Trips in the Colder Months
Melbourne might be one of the most beautiful and famous cities in Australia, but there’s something to experience in every season. Cooler months provide cozy vibes and offer a completely different experience from the rest of the year. The best day voyage in the colder months will help you see Victoria from a completely new and just as beautiful perspective.
The wintery atmosphere is the best, as it’s the perfect time for cozy getaways and mugs of hot chocolate. Imagine waking up to a misty morning in the Dandenong Ranges and exploring in the fresh morning air, hiking through the beautiful trails and returning to relax by a cozy fire at a quaint café. It’s time to embrace the chill.
As mentioned, the Yarra Valley really comes to life in the winter months as the region has much to offer with delicious local food and rich red wines, often served by fireplaces and with an array of cozy seasonal activities. For those who want to hit the snow, consider a ride to the nearby Mount Buller or Lake Mountain for a taste of alpine winter, both of which can be reached in a few hours’ drive. And of course, the Peninsula Hot Springs are a year-round crowd favourite, offering a warm contrast to the crisp winter air.
Planning the Perfect Melbourne One-Day Adventure
Planning is half the fun when it comes to one-day adventures, and Melbourne is one of the best regions to explore in the country. We recommend you consider the time of year you plan to go, as this can affect the types of clothes and equipment you’ll need, as well as the types of activities you can partake in. If you’re going to visit during the weekends or on public holidays, then expect these popular attractions to be very busy, so if you can make your day trips from Melbourne during a weekday, you’ll likely have a more relaxed experience.
Transport is easy, with hiring a car being the best way to go, as you can drive at your own pace and easily deviate and find hidden gems. Alternatively, there are many tour companies in Melbourne that offer guided tours to popular attractions such as the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island, which is a convenient way to get there and have a hassle-free time. Always check opening hours and, where possible, book in advance for popular attractions and experiences, for example, the Penguin Parade or Peninsula Hot Springs. Pack your bags with some essentials for the day, including water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a good pair of walking shoes. Remember that activities can vary depending on the day, time of year, and weather, so you can never have too much preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best way to get around for a day tour to Melbourne?
A: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around as it gives you the flexibility to drive at your own pace, while also having the option to wander off the beaten path and explore lesser-known spots. That being said, if you’re short on time or want to make things easier, there are also a number of reputable tour companies that run tours to popular destinations such as the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island.
Q: What is the best day trip from Melbourne?
A: In short:
- Scenery: Great Ocean Road
- Wildlife: Phillip Island
- For kids: Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and Sovereign Hill
- Wine & Food: Yarra Valley
- Nature & Relaxation: Dandenong Ranges or Mornington Peninsula
Q: Can you see the Great Ocean Road in one day?
A: Yes, it is possible to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road in a single day, although you will need to focus on the key attractions such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. It is a very long day of driving, so we recommend starting early to make the most of it.
Q: Are Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade good for young kids?
A: Yes, the Penguin Parade is a great experience for young children as it is both fun and educational. Just remember to dress them warmly as evenings can be cool, even in summer. You may also want to keep bedtime in mind, as sunset tours will likely be later than usual.
Q: Any tips for those looking to book during peak season?
A: Popular season is during the summer, public holidays, and school breaks. The important thing is to plan ahead during these periods and ensure that you book accommodations, tours and popular attractions such as the Penguin Parade or Peninsula Hot Springs well in advance. Weekdays are also a good idea as they will be quieter than weekends. As always, check for road closures or weather warnings, particularly in winter or during bushfire season.
Your Next Great Melbourne Adventure Awaits
As you can see, Melbourne is one of the most beautiful and incredible cities to explore, but it’s also the perfect starting point for the next one-day getaway. The regions surrounding Melbourne have so much to offer, from the dramatic coastlines to the quaint and charming wineries and quirky and adorable rural towns and villages. Melbourne day trips are full of adventure for all travellers.
The beauty of Victoria and the secret is finally out, with people flocking to Melbourne not just to explore the hustle and bustle of the big city but also for the wonderful adventures to be had just outside the city limits. The best thing about the day trips from Melbourne is how easy they are to plan, as Melbourne is one of the most accessible cities in the country for day trips that are all within driving distance.
Book that holiday, top up the tank and head off on your next great adventure today. Don’t let these incredible opportunities slip through your fingers; start planning your next day trip today. There is so much to see and do just outside Melbourne, and we hope that our list of Victoria’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems can be your next short weekend or road trip inspiration.
