trip sydney to melbourne

Ultimate Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

Taking the Sydney to Melbourne drive is the best way to travel between two of Australia’s best east coast cities. It’s also one of the best road trips in Australia.

Why fly when you can drive through the most beautiful outdoor scenery and visit the best destinations that Victoria and New South Wales have to offer?

Road trip along the spectacular southeastern coastline, calling in at national parks and small towns along the way.

Start your journey after exploring all the best sights and beaches of Sydney and end your road trip in Melbourne’s cool cafes!

To inspire your next Aussie adventure, here’s our guide to planning a Sydney to Melbourne road trip!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Australia (Travel Guide)

Sydney to Melbourne Drive: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Table of Contents

How Long is a Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip?

Distances in Australia are pretty vast. This is a huge country, and it’s not quick driving between any major cities. Sydney to Melbourne is one of the faster routes you can drive along the east coast.

The quickest way to travel by road is just over 500 miles, but this cuts straight through the outback and makes for a monotonous road trip. If you’re in a hurry, you could drive this in a long day, though!

A better Sydney to Melbourne road trip will take you along the coast, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the region’s incredible natural and tourist attractions.

This is a longer route, covering around 700 miles. To really appreciate the stops, we’d recommend taking a week for the road trip, that way you’re never driving for more than a few hours a day.

Quick Info:

• Sydney to Melbourne: 1109 kilometers – 690 miles on A1 (coastal drive) or 878 kilometers – 546 miles on M31.
• How long is a Sydney to Melbourne road trip: 13 hours and 29 minutes on A1 or 8 h 54 min on M31.
• How many days should a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne take? Average Sydney to Melbourne road trip takes 4-7 days depending on your stops, You can drive it in one day without stopping.
• What is the halfway point between Sydney to Melbourne? Canberra, Australia

Best Stops Along the Sydney to Melbourne Drive

This road trip itinerary predominantly sticks to the coast, where the best attractions are. After leaving Sydney, though, you have the chance to visit Canberra, the nation’s capital.

However, this will add on a few extra miles as you’ll need to head inland, then back to the coast. 

While you’re road tripping, you’ll quickly realize that there are plenty more great stops you might want to visit, too, so it’s great to stay flexible on the way from Sydney to Melbourne!

Your journey begins in Sydney, one of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Before heading out on the road, take a few days to explore the city, especially if it’s your first time in Australia.

Sydney has so much to offer, with a bustling city center packed full of attractions waiting to be explored.

Visit the Sydney Opera House before taking on the adrenaline-inducing Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb for epic views over the harbor area.

Make sure you head out to the coast before you start your Sydney to Melbourne road trip. This is a city built by the ocean, and some of the country’s favorite beaches are just a short drive from the center.

Visit Bondi Beach if you’re into surfing and take a ferry across the harbor to Manly Beach to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Sydney area:

• Park Hyatt Sydney – Luxury
• The Mercantile Hotel – Midrange
• Sydney Harbour YHA – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Sydney:

• Ultimate Sydney Arrival Package
• The Rocks Walking Tour: the Original Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks
• Sydney by Night | The Original Luxury Private Night Tour | 3 Hours
• Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney Harbour – Lunch Cruise
• Sydney Opera House VIP Tour, Opera Ticket & Dinner Package

Blue Mountains

The first stop on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip should be a slight detour into the Blue Mountains.

This spectacular area of natural beauty is located just an hour away from the city, so you can always make this a day trip from Sydney before setting off south.

The Blue Mountains National Park is a spectacular place for hiking. Visit Katoomba, where you’ll be greeted by epic clifftop walks and unique rock formations, such as the Three Sisters.

There are small mountain towns, a scenic cable car ride, and plenty more outdoor sights!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Blue Mountains area:

• Lilianfels  – Luxury
• Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery – Midrange
• Metropole Katoomba Guesthouse – Budget

Top 5 things to do in the Blue Mountains:

• Sunset Blue Mountains Wilderness & Wildlife Tour (Without the Crowds)
• Blue Mountains Unique Small-Group Day Adventure with BBQ Lunch
• Blue Mountains Private Tour of Scenic World and Featherdale
• Canyoning at Stunning Empress Canyon
• Blue Mountains Hanging Rock Self-Guided Mountain Bike Tour

Take the highway south from Sydney, and your first stop on the road trip will be Jervis Bay . This beautiful seaside community is home to what the locals claim is one of Australia’s best beaches.

That’s a huge claim, but when you see the beach for the first time, you might just agree. Spend your day relaxing on the soft sands or get active and enjoy the snorkeling because the water here is crystal clear.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Jervis Bay area:

• Dolphin Sands – Luxury
• Dolphin Shores – Midrange
• Huskisson Beach Bed and Breakfast – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Jervis Bay:

• Jervis Bay Whale Watching Cruise
• Jervis Bay Dolphin Watch Cruise
• Hiking The Castle in the spectacular Budawang Mountain Range
• Jervis Bay Passage Cruise
• Fishermans Paradise Eco-walk

Canberra (Detour)

From Jervis Bay, you can take a detour inland to visit the nation’s capital. It’s a two-hour drive away from the coast, but it’s worth spending a full day to explore Canberra’s museums.

The city is very underrated when it comes to tourism, and most travelers miss out on the capital.

Yes, it’s purpose-built, but Canberra is where you’ll find the country’s best museums, as well as the Australian parliament building.

You can take a guided tour of the parliament to learn more about Aussie history and politics!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Canberra area:

• Jamala Wildlife Lodge – Luxury (Amazing for wildlife lovers)
• Novotel Canberra – Midrange
• Canberra City YHA – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Canberra that you simply must do!

• Cockington Green Gardens General Entry Ticket
• Skip the Line: Telstra Tower Observation Deck Ticket
• The best of Canberra Walking Tour
• Twilight Animal Tour
• Batemans Bay Overnight Kayak Camping Tour from Canberra – All Inclusive

From Jervis Bay or Canberra, you now need to drive south, because your next stop is the aptly named town of Eden. This is the most southerly town in New South Wales, so after this, you’ll be driving into the state of Victoria.

Visit the local museum, where you can learn about the town’s whaling history, before heading to the beach to admire the spectacular coastline.

In the right season, you can join a whale-watching trip to see how the locals transitioned from whaling to whale watching!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Eden area:

• Coast Resort Merimbula – Luxury
• Seahorse Inn – Midrange
• Eden Gateway Holiday Park – Budget

Drive south into Victoria and make your way to Gippsland, where you can find the glorious Gippsland Lakes.

This coastal community is a popular holiday destination for Australians because the area is known for its delicious seafood and excellent wines.

Enjoy the lakes, take a boating trip, and enjoy the great food and great wine as you relax in Gippsland.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Gippsland area:

• Astra Lodge Falls Creek – Luxury
• Gebi’s Apartments – Midrange
• Riverview Caravan Park – Budget

Your next stop in Victoria needs to be Walhalla, an old gold mining town where you can learn more about Victoria’s gold mining history.

The town has just 20 residents but sees many more thousands of visitors each year. There’s some dramatic scenery nearby, including forests and gorges.

The town itself has been preserved much as it would have looked in the mid-1800s when it was founded during the gold rush era.

Stay awhile and truly feel the Walhalla area:

• Walhalla’s Star Hotel – Midrange
• Mountain Rivers Tourist Park – Rawson – Budget

Wilson’s Promontory

One of the best stops on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip is Wilson’s Promontory.

This small peninsula juts out from the mainland and offers exceptional views over the ocean and all along the windswept southern coastline.

The national park is home to some excellent beaches, but it’s the hiking that will draw you into this protected area, and keep you for longer than you were planning.

You can find some great campsites around the area to get closer to nature and to give you the chance to take as much time as you want to enjoy this beautiful part of Australia!

Stay awhile and truly feel the Wilson’s Promontory area:

• Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Retreat – Luxury
• Tidal River Cabins Wilsons Promontory – Midrange
• Prom Gate Getaway – Budget

Top tours that includes Wilson’s Promontory.

• Wilsons Promontory Day Trip from Melbourne
• 2-Day Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory Tour from Melbourne

Phillip Island

You’re almost in Melbourne, but you’ve got a few great stops left still. For nature lovers, a trip to Phillip Island is a must, because this small, rugged, windswept island is home to thousands of friendly penguins.

If you can stay until the evening, you’ll be able to witness the world-famous Penguin Parade, when the penguins return in vast numbers from the ocean where they’ve been fishing all day, to spend the night on Phillip Island.

Stay awhile and truly feel Phillip Island:

• The Castle – Villa by the Sea – Luxury
• Phillip Island Cottages – Midrange
• North Pier Hotel – Budget

Top recommended tours for visiting Phillip Island:

• Half Day Phillip Island and Penguins Tour from Phillip Island
• Private Tour: Phillip Island, Penguin Parade and Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park from Melbourne
• Phillip Island Helicopter Tour
• Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour
• Phillip Island Twilight Cruise

Before you head into Melbourne itself, take a stop at St Kilda, where you’ll find the city’s best beach and most happening community.

St Kilda is popular amongst backpackers and travelers, and you might end up staying a lot longer than you anticipated!

Enjoy the beach and the markets, or take a trip to Luna Park, Australia’s most famous amusement park. If you’re a backpacker, why not check into a hostel and have a night out in St Kilda too?

Stay awhile and truly feel the St Kilda area:

• Pan Pacific – Luxury
• Adara St Kilda – Budget
• St Kilda Hostel – Budget

Top recommended tours in St Kilda, Australia:

• Nightlife in Melbourne: St Kilda
• Kiteboarding Lessons
• Food Tour Melbourne – St Kilda
• Meet the Artists on a Art Wine Tour in St Kilda

After several hundred miles of driving, you’ve made it to the end of your Sydney to Melbourne road trip! Take a few days to enjoy Australia’s capital of coffee and all things cool.

Take a street art tour of Melbourne to see the city’s artistic side, before visiting Queen Victoria Market, the botanic gardens, and the Old Gaol Museum.

If you’ve still got a few days at the end of your road trip, you could consider extending the itinerary to drive the Great Ocean Road.

This starts just outside of Melbourne in Torquay, and it’s often named one of the best road trips in the world!

There are many awesome things to do in Melbourne , so be sure to plan in a few extra days on the end of your road trip to hit at least the highlights.

Top 3 places to stay in Melbourne:

• The Hotel Windsor – Luxury
• Milano Serviced Apartments – Budget

Top 5 things to do in Melbourne that you simply must do!

• Melbourne Complete Walking Tour
• Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Tours
• Premium Phillip Island Penguin Express Tour from Melbourne
• Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise
• Melbourne City Sights Kayak Tour

Add On the Great Ocean Road

If you have more time in Australia and have seen the best that Melbourne has to offer, consider adding the Great Ocean Road drive to your itinerary.

This is one of the most iconic and scenic drives in all of Oceania , so if you have the time you do not want to miss it.

Doing A Melbourne to Sydney Drive Instead

Alternatively, it is possible to reverse this whole route by taking a Melbourne to Sydney road trip instead.

This will depend on if you can find cheap flights to Melbourne or Sydney when you arrive. There really is no right or wrong way to make this drive, so plan it in the direction that suits your plans best.

Road Safety in Australia

In Australia, you need to drive on the left-hand side of the road, but there are a few other things you might need to get used to on your Sydney to Melbourne road trip.

Once you’re out of Sydney, you’ll start to encounter wildlife in rural areas. You might be itching to see a kangaroo, but you don’t want to meet them on the roads!

Kangaroos are a serious danger when you’re driving along the highway, so try to avoid driving at dawn or dusk and after dark. This is when kangaroos are found bounding across the roads.

For a Sydney to Melbourne road trip, you really don’t need a fancy four by four. Roads here are great, but do remember to get breakdown cover and insurance – you don’t want to be stuck miles from the nearest town!

Supplies and Accommodation between Sydney and Melbourne

Compared to other parts of Australia, where things are much more remote and rural, the great thing about a Sydney to Melbourne road trip is that you don’t need to plan too much.

There are always gas stations and supermarkets within easy reach.

As with anywhere in Australia, though, it’s good practice to keep your gas tank full and stash a few supplies, especially water, in the car.

You’ll find lots of accommodation along the route – from guesthouses and hotels in tourist destinations to campsites along the coast and in national parks.

A great way to explore the east coast is by campervan; you’ll find these are welcome in caravan parks and campsites all the way from Sydney to Melbourne!

More on Australia:

• 25 Top Things to Do in Australia (On Your First Visit!)
• 28 Great Things To Do in Queensland, Australia
• 11 Best Things to Do in Darwin, Australia
• 10 Spectacular Things to Do on Fraser Island
• Should I Rent a Jucy Campervan in Australia?
• Oceania Travel Guide

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

1 thought on “Ultimate Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary”

We did the Sydney to Brisbane trip a few years ago. This looks amazing! We’ll have to go back for this one.

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The best towns to visit on a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne

14 June 2022

Here’s how to make the most of an inland road trip between Sydney and Melbourne.

Driving the route from Sydney to Melbourne is a rite of passage for most Australians. Since I moved from Victoria to NSW, it is also a trip I have had the pleasure of undergoing several times over the years.

At around nine-and-a-half hours one way, driving the Hume highway in one go is ill-advised – especially when you can take a detour and get to know some of Australia’s greatest regional towns along the way. So next time you find yourself plugging the route into your GPS, consider a stop at one (or more) of these eight places – starting chronologically from Sydney.

The grand inland city of Goulburn (it was in fact Australia’s first inland city) is an end-point in itself, layering contemporary food and wine experiences upon a rich and colourful rural heritage.

It has historic waterworks and a rail centre, a self-guided heritage tour. It’s also surrounded by bushland, farms and wetlands. To explore it all in detail, find the perfect two-day itinerary here.

On your way out, head to the tiny hamlet of Collector just off the Federal Highway towards Canberra. The Bushranger Hotel, best known for the infamous shooting of Constable Nelson by outlaw Ben Hall and his gang in 1865, is in the centre of town.

The famed streets of Goulburn.

Eat: Goulburn’s gastronomic heart culminates at Bryant’s Pies. This may look like your typical regional bakery, however once in the door (queues are common), you’ll find a famous selection of pies, sandwiches, freshly baked bread, sky-high muffins and excellent coffee.

Stay: Step back in time at the charming Railway Barracks , built in 1935 for the town’s first train drivers.

Step back in time at the charming Railway Barracks.

Three hours south-west of Sydney, through the stunning scenery of the Southern Tablelands, is the picturesque town of Yass. You may recognise this place from its starring role in a wholesome episode of Netflix’s Queer Eye , but there is more to Yass than just its fabulous name.

Grand Victorian and Federation buildings flank its wide main street, complete with quaint boutiques, former bank buildings, an elegant courthouse, quality cafes and restaurants that serve local produce in droves.

The famous Banjo Patterson Park commemorates the bush poet. He famously spent some of his early years in the Yass Valley and later bought a property here so his children could experience a similar country childhood to his. Take a walk around and you’ll soon see why.

Meander through the magical Yass valley.

Eat: Finish a busy day at Clementine , the iconic small-batch bakery owned by Brooke Sainsbery and Adam Bantock.

Stay: Choose from one of 50 design-driven rooms at the Abobe Murrumbateman.

An accommodation gem in the heart of Murrumbateman.

You’ll encounter many roadside signs on a drive down the Hume Highway. Follow the one directing you to Jugiong, home of the swanky Sir George Pub .

After two years’ worth of renovations, the pub (which was built in 1852) has recently reopened, and the reimagined venue now houses a restaurant, heritage-listed accommodation, sourdough bakery and beer garden. It’s a worthy pit-stop all on its own.

While you’re in town, sample some local drops at the Jugiong Wine Cellar. It initially began as a way to showcase the 190 hectares of nearby vines, but quickly evolved into a cellar door and store that offers travellers a taste of the best wines produced throughout southern New South Wales.

Grounds at the Sir George Jugiong.

Wagga Wagga

A few years ago, Wagga Wagga was little more than just another weird and wonderfully named Aussie town. But these days, the land of many crows has transformed into a cosmopolitan regional jaunt offering boutique stays, quality coffee, gourmet restaurants, fine wines and rich cultural experiences.

For a fully-fledged travel guide to Wagga Wagga, head here.

Wagga Wagga is a vibrant regional centre.

Eat: For a quick fix, the  Trail Street Coffee Shop  is a bit of a local institution. Alternatively, 25 minutes north-west of Wagga, the tiny village of Coolamon is drawing droves of dairy-loving day-trippers thanks to the café at  Coolamon Cheese . Go for the excellent cheese, stay for the excellent lunch fare and well-chosen local Riverina wines.

Stay: The architecturally-designed eco huts on Kimo Estate are a destination in their own right.

The architecturally-designed eco huts on Kimo Estate.

A detour off the Hume in south central NSW rewards with the naval heritage town of Holbrook. The main drawcard here is the HMAS Otway: a 90-metre submarine dominates the townscape. Learn all about it (and more) at the Submarine Museum and the adjacent commemorative park.

Down the road, the heritage-listed National Museum of Australian Pottery houses over 2,000 treasures to peruse. The collection includes rare antiques made by the convict potter Jonathan Leak, whose few surviving pieces are the earliest marked pottery produced in Australia.

The star of the Houlbrook show.

Eat: Baking since 1899, the  Holbrook Bakery is a popular hub and a quintessential frozen-in-time type food establishment.

Stay: I have spent many a night chatting to friendly blow-ins at the Holbrook Skye Motel . It’s cheap, cheerful and everything you’d expect from a regional accommodation offering.

As far as border towns go, Albury is a heavy-hitter. It’s one of the country’s most productive agricultural areas, offering up the perfect bite-sized town filled with scenery, food and passionate locals.

While there are plenty of appeasing ways to fill your itinerary, an afternoon at the Murray Art Museum (one of Australia’s best regional galleries ) is the perfect starting point for gaining an understanding of the region. The vibrant space features a permanent collection and a regular rotating catalogue of exhibitions by local and international artists.

Albury’s Murray Art Museum.

Eat: The uber-stylish Blacksmith Provedore has opened a second iteration of its Mulwala restaurant in Albury. This pizza restaurant and bar serves delicious, digestible and honest seasonal fare in a relaxed atmosphere.

The uber-stylish Blacksmith Provedore.

Stay: Head to  Circa 1928  for the night. This boutique spa hotel is housed in a former Art Deco bank building close to the town’s botanic gardens.

Often described as Victoria’s most beautiful town, there’s a lot to wax lyrical about in beguiling Beechworth. This non-negotiable detour will reward with historic honey granite buildings built on gold rush wealth and steeped in Ned Kelly legend, alongside a booming food and wine scene.

Wander its two main streets, Ford Street and Camp Street, and while away an afternoon bundled into its cosy cafés and restaurants or sipping and swirling at one of its cellar doors . For all the specifics, head to our Beechworth travel guide here.

Stroll the historic streets of Beechworth.

Eat: Provenance proudly sits in an old bank built in 1856, and consistently receives Good Food Guide acclaim. Head chef Michael Ryan combines his Japanese-inspired style with local produce to deliver a degustation that people travel here just to experience.

Stay: Fancy something a bit different? At  Beechworth Wildlife Stays you can glamp on 2.5 acres of bushland and, in the day, help feed the farm animals and ogle at Billy the crocodile and the resident python.

Inside at Beechworth Wildlife Stays.

Wine, waterways, wetlands and wildlife await only 90 minutes from Melbourne in Nagambie. The charming bush town, with a population of just 1200, sits at the southern end of the Goulburn Valley. While there is plenty to do on land (the Nagambie Farmers Market, the Doll Museum, Black Caviar statue), the townscape is dominated by the impossibly picturesque Lake Nagambie, which lies adjacent to the main street.

Take to the water and be surrounded by abundant birdlife, native plants and local wildlife. Water skiing, speed boating, rowing and yachting are all leisurely ways to pass the time here.

Life on Lake Nagambie.,

Eat: Tahbilk Wines is a must-do in Nagambie. This fifth-generation estate has roots dating back to 1860. Visit this destination winery to sample some rare Rhone valley varietals, such as Marsanne and Mourvedre, and to dine at the cafe that champions local produce and gazes over serene wetlands.

Autumn days at Tahbilk Wines.

Stay: Mitchelton Winery offers its own onsite accommodation with the same impeccable attention to detail as its bottles. Architecturally designed, this visually spectacular hotel retains a contemporary flair without damaging the gentle green landscape that surrounds it.

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Comments (5)

Very helpful – travel from Sydney to family living in Torquay. Reverse inland & coast road trips. Thank you!

What about Wangaratta? Gateway to the King Valley Wine Region and the Milawa /Oxley Gourmet Region. The town itself has lots to offer as well. Wangaratta is too often overlooked!

Thanks for the feedback! We agree, Wangaratta is a fantastic Aussie town! Will remember for next time

It’s good to get some ideas about travelling

Call by The Rock, south of Wagga Wagga, and take a picnic at its base or walk to the summit for great views.

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Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary | 2023 Road Trip Guide

Connecting two of Australia’s biggest cities, a Sydney to Melbourne road trip is an amazing way to  journey the far south coast . While many opt for the shorter inland route on Hume Highway through Canberra, a coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne is  well worth the extra kilometres .

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Don’t leave your home without Travel Insurance! From the US?  We recommend   Allianz Travel Insurance,  a world leader in travel protection and  our trusted Travel Insurance partner  for the last 5 years. Allianz offers  Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance Policies  that include medical coverage, trip cancellation, rental car insurance and more! (Benefits vary by state and by plan, so read your policy carefully!)  Not a US resident?  Consider  Safety Wing ,  a  budget friendly travel insurance provider  with travel insurance plans for Digital Nomads and travelers from all around the world.

Lined by turquoise waters and charming seaside towns,  the Princes Highway rivals the beauty and diversity of Great Ocean Road . But despite being far lesser-known, it is loaded with hidden gems that are sure to make for a memorable road trip. This coastal route spans over  1,000 km of white sand beaches, untouched wilderness, and even penguins!

We recently travelled from Sydney to Melbourne along the   Coastal Discovery Drive  and would easily put this trip on our list of the   best road trips in Australia ! It’s an amazing way to get from Sydney to Melbourne—or vice versa—without the need to fly.

Even if you only have a few days to get from Sydney to Melbourne by car, these coastal highlights are surely worth a stop. This  Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary is best enjoyed over 2 weeks  but can be adjusted to suit any schedule.

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Sydney to Melbourne Drive: Suggested Road Trip Stops 

With so many unique places to explore, you’ll have no shortage of great stopovers on your drive. So, if you’re wondering where to stop on a Sydney to Melbourne itinerary, here’s how to make the most of your inland road trip.

Sydney – 3-4 Days

Visiting Sydney is a given on many Australian trips, whether internationally or within the country. Its bustling food scene and an endless list of city ongoings make it a vibrant destination for travelers from all walks of life. The  city is jam-packed with beaches, art galleries, and restaurants  that put Sydney on the map as a top travel destination in Australia.

Things To Do In Sydney

• For day 1, go for a  3-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour  for a panoramic view of the city.   This dinner cruise  includes a 3-course meal of delicious local fare to enjoy at sunset. 
• Alternatively, you can enjoy a lavish 8-course meal amid lush greenery at   Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens  for your day 1 activity. Marvel at the vibrant foliage while indulging in some of the city’s finest cuisine.
• Hop into a see-through kayak  and explore the crystal clear waters of the Pacific on a  Kayak Hire . Glide through  Manly Cove  and go for a snorkel or lay back on the boat-in-only beaches. 
• Visit Sydney’s main attractions like Sydney Harbour and Bondi Beach on this  Highlights of Sydney Half-Day City Tour . It takes the guesswork out of planning – ideal for those on a tight schedule. 
• Join the  2.5-hour guided Pub tour  to sip on drinks at four historic pubs in The Rocks Sydney and relish the wild tales and colourful characters that figured in it.

READ NEXT: Best Day Trips From Sydney

Where To Stay In Sydney

Sydney hosts thousands of hotels, hostels, and stunning vacation rentals. If you’re new to navigating the city, our   guide to Sydney neighbourhoods  is a great place to start. Here are  a few of our top picks for hotels in Sydney .

• Sir Stamford Hotel :  This luxury 5-star hotel is the perfect launch point to Sydney Harbour. There are plenty of enjoyable activities for both kids and adults, such as water sports, a swimming pool, and biking. It’s close to the heart of the action in downtown Sydney and boasts a Gold Level status as a TripAdvisor GreenLeader.
• Crystalbrook Albion : Located within a heritage building, this hotel offers a blend of heritage and modern details. The hotel is very eco-friendly, using tech to cut down on paper and plastics and teaming up with groups like TerraCycle, OzHarvest, and Containers for Change for sustainability.
• Sydney Harbour YHA : A sustainable, budget hostel in the historic The Rocks district. It is solar-powered, with an open-plan design for sustainability. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for amazing Sydney views.

Jervis Bay – 2-3 Days

Sydney to Jervis Bay: 198 km // 2 hours 40 minutes 

With the metropolitan views of Sydney in your rear window, head south to Jervis Bay for gorgeous waterfront scenery. Jervis Bay is a popular destination for  whale watching, scuba diving,  and  bushwalking . The area is home to  white-sand beaches  and crystal clear waters that play host to dolphins and whales. 

The drive from Sydney to Jervis encompasses one of the region’s most popular road trips and passes by the magnificent  Royal National Park .

To take in some amazing coastal landscapes, consider hopping on the  Grand Pacific Drive,  which is a 140 km stretch spanning from the Royal National Park to Shoalhaven. 

Enjoy the sweeping ocean views while driving through farmland, coastal towns, and national parks. This stretch of sun-soaked highway is sure to be a highlight on your Sydney to Melbourne drive. 

Stops on a Sydney to Jervis Bay Road Trip 

• Take in Views at Bald Hill Lookout:  Pack a picnic and enjoy the sweeping views over the hills and rugged coastline. This is a popular spot for hang gliders that overlooks the Sea Cliff Bridge. 
• Drive the Sea Cliff Bridge:  This winding bridge is iconic to New South Wales. The bridge is perched above the rocky cliffs of the NSW south coast and offers incredible views of birds, sea life, and surrounding national parks!
• Feel the Mist of the Kiama Blowhole:  Stop in the charming seaside town of Kiama to feel the mist of a blowhole formed by lava flows. With the right conditions, the blowhole can shoot 25 metres in the air!
• Visit Wollongong:  Just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney, Wollongong is a dynamic city full of activities. Scope out the surfing beaches and rock pools that line the coast road while hang-gliders launch from Bald Hill.
• Walk the Blue Mile Pathway:  Stroll on this much-loved 500m path in the heart of Wollongong. Take in coastal views while walking, cycling, and dining along the way.
• Get your adrenaline pumping with a   15,000 ft Skydive over Wollongong . This thrilling adventure promises some of the best views of the city and coastline. 
• Surf at Werri Beach:  Consistent surf breaks are the norm as waves crawl across the headlands. Werri Beach is a great place to spend a day with some fish and chips from the local fish shop. 

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

• Snorkel in the protected waters of Plantation Point:  This beautifully secluded point in Vincentia is the perfect foray into the marine world of Jervis Bay. With its crystal clear waters, the visibility for seeing colourful fish and vegetation is spectacular. 
• Sink your toes in the sand at Hyams Beach:  Hyams Beach has some of the whitest sand in Australia. This is a popular stop on the Princes Highway journey, so be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds. 
• Enjoy a morning cruise on the Bay:  Jervis Bay is no stranger to bottlenose dolphins and other marine life. A  boat cruise  is a perfect way to enjoy the sparkling waters and admire dolphins. Between May and November, you can even spot humpback whales on a   whale-watching cruise .   

Where To Stay In Jervis Bay

• Paperbark Camp :  This peaceful bush retreat is the peak of glamping. It is less than 30 minutes away from Huskisson and offers access to a walking track, canoes, and kayak hire. Paperbark Camp has received an Advanced Eco Accreditation from Ecotourism Australia and implements many sustainable practices.
• Worrowing Jervis Bay :  A luxurious eco-resort, Worrowing sits on a stunning coastal farm. It offers self-contained accommodations minutes from the sandy beaches and nature reserves.
• Harbourview Serviced Apartments  are conveniently located within walking distance to cafes and restaurants in the coastal town of Ulladulla. 

South Coast, NSW – 2-4 Days

Jervis Bay to Eden: 313km // 4 hours 

The South Coast of New South Wales, encompassing the regions of   Eurobodalla  and   Sapphire Coast  boast crystal clear blue waters and offers plenty of attractions. 

The journey from Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay in Eurobodalla takes only 1.5 hours, or 4 hours if you plan on making your way all the way down the coast to Eden. But you could easily spend much longer than that exploring all of the unique places that dot this coastline.

The area is known for its  oysters, whale watching,  and  the Aussie favourite Bega Cheese Factory.  It’s a beautiful part of any coastal drive from Melbourne to Sydney (or vice versa).

Things To Do In Eurobodalla

• Get a taste for the local fare at Cupitt’s Estate:  Spend an afternoon sharing a glass of local wine, beer, and cheese on this beautiful farm estate.
• Visit Ulladulla:  This coastal town is all about seafood and marvelling at the sea. A popular spot for diving, Ulladulla is a laid-back town that’s perfect for a lunch stop or a journey into the water.
• Walk alongside Kangaroos at Pebbly Beach:  Located within Murramarang National Park, Pebbly Beach is known for its resident kangaroos. If getting a photo of a kangaroo is high on the bucket list for your Melbourne to Sydney roadtrip, this is the place to do it!
• Explore Batemans Bay:  Known for its oysters and snorkelling, Batemans Bay is an underrated NSW destination. There are a few things to do in this small town. 
• Eat Clyde River Oysters at the Wray Street Oyster Shed : It doesn’t get any fresher than eating oysters picked right from the banks of the Clyde River.
• Take a Kayak Tour through Clyde River National Park:  Kayak through North Batemans Bay and eat fresh oysters along the way!
• Take a scenic flight:  Fly above the water in a seaplane over the NSW south coast for an aerial view of the beaches and waterways.
• Enjoy a picnic at Holmes Lookout:  Take in a scenic view over the Clyde River and the Pacific Ocean with a hillside picnic.
• Take in views from Observation Point Lookout:  Located just an hour south of Batehaven, this lookout point is another great picnic spot with fantastic views.
• Soak in Yuin Culture in Narooma:  Narooma is a stunning area surrounded by clear blue waters and ancient rock formations — which is how it gets its name. It is set in a traditional Yuin country with rich South Eastern Aboriginal roots. Here,   Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness  offers services for travelers to get acquainted with the history and culture of the region. 
• Check out Bar Rock  at the Bar Rock Lookout.
• Walk the Mill Bay Boardwalk:  Walk past mangroves and keep an eye out for schools of fish and stingrays in the water.
• Snorkel with friendly seals at Montague Island:  Montague Island is home to a colony of fur seals, thousands of penguins, and almost 100 bird species. It’s a popular destination for diving and snorkeling just off the coast of Narooma.
• Visit historic Tilba:  Set in the lush green hills of the NSW countryside, Tilba is a beautiful escape with rich heritage. Central Tilba is a unique period village set among the backdrop of Mount Gulaga. Visit the famous  ABC Cheese Factory  to explore the cheesemaking process and enjoy some local dairy from Tilba jersey cows.

Things to Do Along The Sapphire Coast

• Stop in Bermagui:  Bermagui is known for its amazing sportfishing and water sports on  Wallaga Lake . Check the visitor information centre for info on seasonal fishing and the best places to drop a line.
• Check out Horse Head Rock and Camel Rock  – some of the oldest rocks in NSW. Distinctly shaped like animals, these massive rocks near Wallaga Lake are a must-see on any drive to Sydney from Melbourne. 
• Eat Fish and Chips at Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf:  Indulge in the freshest seafood caught daily right off the Bermagui coast. Watch out for the seagulls! 
• Swim in the Blue Pool:  The Blue Pool is one of the coolest highlights of the Sapphire Coast and an iconic landmark in Australia. Its name describes it perfectly: a natural ocean rock pool filled with crystal clear blue water. It’s an amazing place for a dip in the summer! 
• Picnic at the Michael Lerner Lookout:  This lookout point offers spectacular views of the coast and makes for a scenic road trip lunch stop.
• Stop at  Mimosa Rocks National Park  and wander through the castle-like rock formations. 
• Whale Watch in Tathra:  In the Spring, the Tathra Wharf offers a prime spot to watch the whale migration with excellent diving/snorkelling opportunities. 
• Admire Kianinny Bay at the Chamberlain Lookout:  The sheltered blue waters at Kianinny Bay are some of the best places to swim along the Sapphire Coast. 
• Go on a Magical Oyster Tour with Captain Sponge:  Learn about oysters and the farming process behind the unique tide-to-table flavour. These oysters thrive in the nutrient-rich waters where two rivers meet; it’s obviously what makes a Sydney Rock Oyster tastes so good!
• Explore the Waters of Merimbula:  Named after an Aboriginal word for “two lakes,” Merimbula is surrounded by calm, clear waters. The Lions Park Lookout is a lovely spot to pull over and stretch your legs or have a picnic while overlooking Lions Beach. You can also venture South to Eden for sweeping views over Twofold Bay to Ben Boyd National Park from the Eden Park Lookout. 

Where To Stay Along The South Coast, NSW

• Tilba Lake Camp :  Stay in a luxe “pod” or hilltop glamping tent with views over the Pacific Ocean and Tilba Lake. Nestled among mountains, lakes, and the ocean, Tilba Lake Camp is all about sleeping under the stars in luxury. These unique escapes are the perfect way to unwind after a long day on the road. 
• Sails Luxury Apartments:  Stay in the luxurious family vacation rentals on the South Coast with a range of outdoor amenities and beautiful lake views. This property features a heated outdoor swimming pool and a BBQ area. The location is perfect for easy walks to the main beach for surfing and dining at local restaurants. 
• Kianinny Bush Cottages :  Five minutes from the whales in Tathra is 100 acres of native bushland, where Kianinny Bush Cottages offer solar-powered cabins. Set on a private lake, the grounds offer an endless list of activities for enjoying the Sapphire Coast sustainably.

Gipsy Point/Mallacoota – 1 Day

Sapphire Coast (Eden) to Gipsy Point: 71 km // 1 hour 

The state line from NSW into Victoria runs just an hour’s drive south from Eden in Sapphire Coast. The first Victoria stop on your Sydney-Melbourne road trip should be at  Gipsy Point . This  lovely riverside area  sits at the top of the Mallacoota Inlet in the  Gippsland Lakes region.  

A little further down the road, Mallacoota town serves as a launch point to sandy beaches, calm waterways, and Australian wilderness. It feels far, far away from the urban cities of Sydney and Melbourne, and makes for a  relaxing detour on a coastal road trip .

Things To Do In Gipsy Point/Mallacoota 

• Visit Croajingolong National Park:  Considered a  UNESCO   World Biosphere Reserve , this park is a nature lover’s dream. It offers a pristine stretch of coast where the mountain valleys meet the lush rainforest. Some of the park trails worth exploring here are: the  Genoa Peak Walk ,  Point Hicks Lightstation Walk , and  Thurra River Dunes Walk.
• Walk the Mallacoota Coastal Walk:  With heaps of formal and informal bush walking tracks in Mallacoota, there are lots to choose from. The   Betka Beach Loop  is a short walk that winds through the rainforest along creeks and boasts sweeping views of the coast. 
• Have a picnic at Sandy Point:  The Sandy Point picnic area is a great place to eat lunch and get up close and personal with wildlife. Kangaroos are known to frequent the golf course here, while koalas can be spotted hanging out (literally) at dusk.
• Walk along Quarry Beach:  Surrounded by jagged headlands, Quarry Beach is a 1km stretch of ancient-looking rocks. It’s a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and surfing.

Where To Stay In Gipsy Point/Mallacoota 

• Gipsy Point Lodge : This tranquil riverside retreat with river and garden view rooms, and self-contained cottages was our choice of accommodation in Gipsy Point. There is an onsite restaurant and bar serving up delicious local cuisine ranging from oysters to fresh salads.
• The lodge is surrounded by  Croajingolong National Park  and gives guests direct access to enjoy the extensive Mallacoota Inlet and local rivers. You can hire a canoe or kayak and spend a day exploring the inlet or opt to do some busk walking, biking, swimming, sightseeing or simply relaxing in the Lodge.
• Farm Stay at 32 Zachary Drive : This  homestay in East Gippsland  is suitable for big groups, fishing trips, or romantic weekend getaways. It’s set on 30 acres of beautiful bushland with wide open fields, offering those  iconic Mallacoota sea views . This hotel is located within  walking distance from the city centre .

Lakes Entrance – 2-3 Days

Gipsy Point to Lakes Entrance: 188 km // 2 hours 10 minutes 

Detour off the main highway to soak in the seaside charm of Lakes Entrance. Known as the  seafood capital of Victoria , this quaint coastal town is surrounded by inland waterways and abundant wildlife. Lakes Entrance is a popular holiday destination for locals from the Great Melbourne Area and is a worthy stop to explore the  Gippsland Lakes . 

Things To Do In Lakes Entrance 

• SUP with Venture Out Australia :
  Paddling through the sparkling waters of the Gippsland Lakes is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or seals.
• Go on a Bike Ride:  Lakes Entrance is full of mountain biking trails that range from smooth pathways to jump-filled trails. You can also hire a bike to journey down to nearby towns like Metung or Nowa Nowa.
• Dine at   Sodafish :  Enjoy the freshest seafood the region has to offer with wild-caught sustainable fish, oysters, and shellfish. We recommend their 7-course Chef’s Selection Set Meal.
• Explore the Waterways:  Hire a boat or kayak or catch a cruise to explore the coastal villages and waterways.
• Stroll along the Metung Boardwalk:  This picturesque  5 km boardwalk  follows a narrow stretch of land within the lakes. It’s a great place for a walk or cycle and is a local favourite to watch the sunset.
• Soak in the sun at Ninety Mile Beach:  This pristine stretch of sandy beach is a Victoria, Australia gem. It spans—you guessed it—90 miles (145 km) and is a popular swimming and wildlife viewing destination.
• Visit Raymond Island:  Hop on the ferry to Raymond Island for some of the best koala-spotting around. The ferry is free and takes 5 minutes to arrive at this one of the best wildlife havens.
• Visit Wineries:  Check out the East Gippsland Drink Trail to discover some of the region’s best wineries and cellar doors.

Where To Stay In Lakes Entrance

Waverley House Cottages :  After a long day on the road, these woodland cottages offer an ideal retreat. Surrounded by 8 acres of private gardens, Waverley House Cottages share the magic of the region without the crowds of town. 

With a solar-heated pool and hydrotherapy spa, the Waverley House Cottages have perfect accommodations no matter whether you are traveling with a big family or as a couple.

Walhalla – 1-2 Days

Lakes Entrance to Walhalla: 197 km // 2.5 hours

Head inland from the coast to historic Walhalla to see what was once  one of Australia’s richest gold rush towns . Now, the sleepy town feels like a relic of the past. Home to only 20 year-round residents, Walhalla is a popular escape from the city and is particularly famous for the beautiful fall foliage between April and May. 

Upon discovering a  3 km vein of gold  called Cohen’s Reef, Walhalla became a mecca for gold seekers and miners during the gold rush era. It is tucked in a valley along the mountains of Victoria and serves as a  time capsule of the 19th-century gold rush. 

WORTHY STOP:  Be sure to take the backroads from Lakes Entrances to Walhalla through the sprawling farming country and stop for a fabulous lunch in the town of Tinamba at the Tinamba Hotel. 

Things To Do In Walhalla

• Tour the Town:  Explore the picturesque buildings that line the historic streets.
• Go on an Underground Mine Tour:  Venture into the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine to access Cohen’s Reef and explore the town’s gold mining heritage.   
• Ride the Scenic Railway:   The Walhalla Goldfields Railway  runs 3 days a week through the Stringers Creek Gorge. Stopping at Thomson Station, the route winds through beautiful trees and scenic mountain views. 
• Day trip to Baw Baw National Park:  If you love the outdoors and looking for an adventure, you can explore this fragrant eucalyptus wonderland by walking or snowshoeing along the many trails through snowgum forests. You might encounter local wildlife and vibrant wildflowers along the way!

Where To Stay In Walhalla

Walhalla’s Star Hotel :  Enjoy country dining and a cozy overnight stay at Walhalla’s Star Hotel, a boutique mountain retreat. The grounds are all about preserving the original gold-era facade and disconnecting from modern technology. They have a restaurant on-site serving up great local fare, and no stay here is complete without meeting their dog, Tilly!

Wilsons Promontory – 2-3 Days

Walhalla to Wilsons Promontory: 210 km // 2 hours 50 minutes

A stop at Wilsons Promontory might seem out of the way, but this  glorious journey through the temperate rainforest  of Australia is pretty special. Head through Traralgon to  Tarra Bulga National Park  for a refreshing stroll through the lush surroundings of greenery and ferns.

You can then ogle at the  colourful murals of Yarram , which dot the town’s walls. The murals, dubbed Heescotown, display the vibrant farm history and culture that the region is known for. Be sure to check out all   12 murals  as you cruise through town. 

After veering toward the  southernmost tip of mainland Australia , you’ll arrive at what locals lovingly call  “The Prom.”  Wilsons Promontory is a  spectacular nature park  surrounded by native bush and stunning beaches. 

The Prom holds a special place in many Australians’ hearts, and we can definitely see why. The  unspoiled nature  is the perfect backdrop for snorkelling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Things to Do in Wilsons Promontory

• Visit Wilsons Promontory National Park:  Filled with a labyrinth of walking trails, The Prom is a magical destination for nature lovers. You could easily spend a week taking in everything from the fern gullies to the quartz sand of Squeaky Beach.
• For a  day tour ,  pack a flask of hot tea and catch the  sunrise from the summit of Mt. Oberon.  If you have 3 to 4 days to spare, embark on the  Southern Circuit Walk  for a magical venture through dunes, swamps, and hidden coves.
• Go on a Wildlife Watching Cruise:  This   2.5-hour wilderness cruise  will take you through the gorgeous granite-studded coast of The Prom. Ride in the world’s largest custom-built amphibious boat and keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins.

Where To Stay In Wilsons Promontory

• Tidal River Cabins :  These self-contained cabins are located in the heart of the national park, just steps from Norman Beach. Set in the bush, you can overlook the stunning surroundings while you eat dinner on the timber deck.
• Wilderness Retreats at Wilsons Promontory National Park:  Cozy into  insect-proof tents  perched above some of the best beaches, islands, and forests in Victoria. 

Phillip Island – 2-3 Days

Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island: 134 km // 2 hours

Located just about 1 hour drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a  seaside oasis of pristine beaches and rugged nature . A popular vacation spot for Melbournians looking to escape the city, it hosts some of the country’s most iconic sights. 

Koalas  hanging from trees,  surfers  catching waves, and even  penguins waddling on the beach at dusk. Much like Wilsons Promontory, a Phillip Island detour seems like an easily skippable stop. While it is out of the way, it was  one of our highlights of the trip from Sydney to Melbourne!  It is bursting at the seams with fun activities with plenty of options for sensational local produce.

Things To Do On Phillip Island

• Dine at The Cape Kitchen:  Pair panoramic views of the Southern Ocean with an incredible locally sourced menu of dishes. Their set lunch is worth the splurge!
• Don’t miss the Red Rock Beach and Forrest Caves:  Red Rock Beach is covered in rich red rocks with impressive rock pools to explore. At low tide, discover sea caves in the cliffs at the Forrest Caves near Surfside.
• Hike Cape Woolamai:  Hike your way up to the highest point on Phillip Island for sweeping views over the cape and surrounding ocean. There are a few different trails at Cape Woolamai ranging from an easy 30 min walk to a 2-3 hours 8km loop. 
• Visit the Koala Conservation Reserve:  See koalas in their natural habitat while strolling across treetop boardwalks in natural bushland. It’s a great spot to get close to wild Koalas and to learn more about their life and habitat. 
• Visit Nobbies Centre:  Learn all about the animals and nature of Phillips Island with dynamic displays at this ecotourism centre. Stroll the boardwalk at sunset for spectacular ocean views!
• Watch the   Penguin Parade   at  Phillip Island Nature  Park :  Head to Summerland Beach at dusk to watch the little penguins waddle their way down the shore to their burrows. The nightly show offers an unmissable opportunity to get up close to the World’s smallest penguins!
• Have lunch at the  Outback Chef’s Wild Food Farm :  Pick up a jar of preserves or grab a bite at this uniquely Australian bush food shop and café and don’t miss an opportunity to tour the grounds for a chance to learn more about Australia’s traditional plants and ways that the team at the Outback Chef has been incorporating them into their cuisine. Their Australian grown tea sold at the shop is a perfect souvenir to take home with you. Try the  Black Tea with Strawberry Gum  blend! 
• Sip wine at the Purple Hen Winery:  Sip on crisp cool climate wines at this  family owned winery  surrounded by farmland and beautiful views of the bay. 
• Shop at The Store:  Pick up locally sourced gourmet staples like coffee beans and cheeses while browsing handmade footwear and gluten-free delights. 
• Enjoy a family-friendly cruise:  Get on the  Cape Woolamai Scenic Cruise  to discover Phillip Island’s hidden gem. Look out for dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds on this catamaran tour. You might even see the daily pelican feeding.

Where To Stay On Phillip Island

Oak Tree Lodge :  Relax and unwind at this luxurious coastal escape set in a picturesque English garden. Located in Rhyll on Phillip Island, this lodge is located within walking distance to a local winery with easy access to the Koala Conservation Reserve. The lodge is self-contained and offers everything you need for a cozy and comfortable stay on Phillip Island. Its beautiful farmhouse decor had us in awe!

READ NEXT:  Things To Do In Phillip Island, Victoria

Melbourne – 3-5 Days

Phillip Island to Melbourne: 141 km // 2 hours

And the final stop on your Melbourne coastal drive! Deemed  Australia’s cultural capital , Melbourne is buzzing with  unique restaurants, hip laneways, and rich history . You could easily spend weeks uncovering everything Melbourne has to offer, but here are a few things to check out while driving from Sydney to Melbourne.

Things To Do In Melbourne

• Go on a River Cruise :  See the highlights of the city from a different perspective on this 2-hour  cruise up  and down the Yarra River . Enjoy a quick way to see all the must-visit places in Melbourne. The cruise passes by the iconic city landmarks, bustling ports, and serene river gardens.
• Explore the colourful Laneways :  Wander through vibrant streets dotted with boutiques, markets, vintage shops, and cafés. Learn about Melbourne’s history, exploring its  architecture, street art, and vibrant culture . Make quick stops at quirky cafes to savour the city’s unique charm.
• Tour the city by Bike :  Discover the diverse villages and landmarks that the city is known for while riding the  Melbourne Bayside Cycling Trail , a great way to explore St Kilda and Brighton on a beautiful day. Here you’ll find local neighbourhoods, enjoy scenic beachfronts, and see iconic landmarks. Don’t miss the  sustainable Rain Man Fountain , powered by solar energy and recycled water.
• Discover culinary gems on a Foodie Tour :  Melbourne is known as a culinary centre when it comes to tourism Australia. Sample some of the best bites in the city with these local favourite spots. Sip the famous coffee, try some of the delectable dumplings and sweet treats, and cap it all off with a local-favourite bar drink.

READ NEXT:  8 Best Melbourne Weekend Getaways

Where To Stay In Melbourne

Melbourne is home to lots of unique and eco-friendly accommodations. Check out our   guide to Melbourne neighbourhoods and hotels  for more of our favourite spots.

• Alto Hotel :  Settle into the best of both worlds at this apartment-style boutique hotel in the heart of the city. It’s in the heart of the CBD and runs off of 100% renewable energy. 
• Clarion Suites Gateway :  Set on the banks of the Yarra River, this AAA Tourism Eco-Friendly Star Accredited Hotel is a great base to explore the city. Their sustainable practices are complemented by modern rooms and an onsite bar and café.
• Selina St Kilda : A good hostel for a short stay, close to shops, tram stops, and the beach. It has a wonderful community vibe, modern rooms, and an eco-friendly approach. It also has an onsite bar and café. It is a great, affordable option for your Melbourne stay.

Sydney To Melbourne Road Trip Time & Distance

How far is the route from sydney to melbourne.

The quickest way from Sydney to Melbourne is to drive along the Hume Highway (M31) for 874 km. It may be the quickest way to get to Melbourne from Syndey, but it’s not nearly as fun as the route we’ve shared above.

Total Driving Distance For Road Trip From Sydney To Melbourne (And Vice Versa)

Our Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive was  1,502 km total distance . If you’re tight on time, you can skip some detours and still do the Sydney to Melbourne coastal trip in just over 1,000 km. If hugging the coast isn’t a priority, you can save about 600 km and do the inland route, also known as Hume Highway. 

How Many Days To Drive From Sydney To Melbourne? 

For the full coastal route experience filled with unique stopovers,  you should allow 2 weeks for a  road trip from Sydney to Melbourne . 

Of course, you can skip some Sydney to Melbourne road trip stops and do it in a few days if you’re working with a shorter time frame. 

The same goes for a coastal Melbourne to Sydney drive. The drive is a bit longer, but the stops, breathtaking seaside views, seafood, and charming towns along the way make it totally worth it.

It is  possible to do the drive in just 4-5 days , but prepare to make some tough decisions on what to skip and where to stop along the way!

Looking for other itineraries for your Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive? Check out the   Sydney to Melbourne Touring  for additional info about potential stops along the way and the best driving route from Sydney. 

Total Sydney To Melbourne Driving Time

Despite the long driving distance from Sydney to Melbourne, in total, we only spent  about 19.5 hours on the road  driving to Melbourne from Sydney. 

Have You Ever Taken A Road Trip To Melbourne From Sydney? What Were Some Of Your Must-See Stops?

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

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Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip: Best Stops of Coastal Splendor

Get ready for an unforgettable journey as we take you on the best Sydney to Melbourne road trip. This detailed road trip itinerary unveils the best 13 stops of scenic locations, promising a voyage of awe-inspiring beauty and natural wonders. This road trip is a visual feast from the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge to the serene shores of Green Patch Beach at Jervis Bay, the rugged beauty of Bingi Bingi Point, and the tranquil Tura Beach rockpool headland walk.

We’ll explore the pristine beaches of Mallacoota, chase waterfalls, follow the Koala Trail in Paynesville, and admire the historic charm of the La Trobe Swing Bridge. Venture along the 1193 kilometres of scenic landscapes and relish the coastal delights before reaching the final destination – Melbourne.

Best Stops Along the Coastal Route – Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip

Day 1 – sydney to batemans bay – sydney to melbourne road trip, day 2 – batemans bay to mallacoota, day 3 – mallacoota to paynesville – sydney to melbourne road trip, day 4 – paynesville to melbourne, road trip map.

Come along on this fantastic coastal road trip Sydney to Melbourne…

Depart Sydney early for a day of sightseeing with incredible coastal vistas en route to Melbourne.  Head south along the Princess Highway towards Coalcliff.

Stop 1 – From Coalcliff, drive the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge. Be sure to stop at the Sea Cliff Bridge Viewpoint for the magnificent view of the bridge and the coastline beyond.  

Stop 2 – Jervis Bay. Just outside Jervis Bay Village is Green Patch Beach. On a warm day, this is a perfect spot for a swim. Don’t forget your camera to capture the vistas of gleaming white sand and blue-green ocean…

Stop 3 – Continue to Ulladulla. How about a picnic lunch at Warden Head Lighthouse? Continue to Batemans Bay. Stay at Batemans Bay for one night – 280 km.

Explore 13 of the best stops along the coast road – Sydney to Melbourne road trip…

Things to do at Batemans Bay:

• Explore Clide River National Park – Walk to Holmes Lookout
• Fancy a beach stroll? Discover one of the many stunning beaches: Caseys Beach, Corrigans Beach, or Denhams Beach.
• Re-discover relics from the past at Batemans Bay Heritage Museum.
• Are you thinking of food? Perhaps a seafood meal sensation, JJ’s at the Marina. For a grab-and-go delight, try Batemans Bay Bakehouse.

Stop 4 – Bingi Bingi Point. Explore this secluded point and the striking striped rocks that make this location unique. Stroll along the walking trail to the rock feature and boiler runs.

Stop 5 – Wallaga Lake. Take a short walk to view Horse Head Rock, another stunning coastal rock formation worthy of exploration.

Stop 6 – Tura Beach Rockpool. The 10-minute walking trail will showcase coastal views from the headland. Continue along the rocky cliff to reach the rockpool; take time to explore and take in this striking coastal area.

Stop 7 – Mallacoota. Continue the southern drive to the lovely seaside town of Mallacoota, and welcome to Victoria! Stay in Mallacoota for one night – 281 km.

Things to do in Mallacoota:

As a small coastal town, yes, more beaches are calling for attention!  Explore the viewpoints from Captain Stephenson’s Point, then continue the exploration with these places:

• Tip Beach 
• Davis Creek Lookout
• Betka River loop walk
• Geology Point Victoria
• Quarry Beach
• Secret Beach…

Stop 8 – Genoa Falls. Back onto the Princess Highway from Mallacoota is Genoa Falls. The 10-minute walk takes you to the granite-framed river, showcasing a pretty waterfall.

Stop 9 – Lakes Entrance. This stop could be as simple as a coffee shop at one of the local cafes. To explore more, perhaps a walk across the Cunninghame Arm Foot Bridge to be greeted by Ninety Mile Beach on the other side! Or, for an informative stop, check out The Griffiths Sea Shell Museum and Marine Display.

Stop 10 – Paynesville. Stay in the pretty lakeside town of Paynesville. Stay for one night, 247 km.

Things to do in Paynesville:

• See the Koala Trail Nature Preserve. Take the free 5-minute passenger ferry to Raymond Island. Walk the Koala Trail to see a Koala.
• Paynesville Foreshore Reserve. For scenic lake views and bird spotting.
• Fine dining at SARDINE dining.

Stop 11 – La Trobe Swing Bridge. Stop for a picnic on the shady riverside or admire the historic bridge constructed in the late 1800s.

Stop 12 – Continue along the S Gippsland Highway to follow the coastal route. Fancy a long jetty walk? Visit the small village of Port Welshpool to experience this jetty walk and a BYO picnic. There are limited food outlets in Port Welshpool.

Stop 13 – Agnes Falls. This gorgeous hidden gem, Agnes Falls, is north of Port Welshpool. Take an easy walk to the falls and enjoy a picnic in the picnic area.

Continue towards Melbourne, and your fantastic road trip Sydney to Melbourne is complete! Arrive in Melbourne, 385 kms.

As this Sydney to Melbourne road trip comes to a close, you will be left with a treasure trove of memories and a newfound appreciation for the coastal splendours of the journey. Every stop has a unique addition to the adventure, from the engineering marvel of the Sea Cliff Bridge to the pristine beaches, serene rockpools, Koala trails, and historic bridges. This road trip is a coastal odyssey filled with awe-inspiring places, and it’s a testament to the natural wonders to be discovered on this coast road Sydney to Melbourne.

You can explore further with Road Trips Australia and find your next journey of discovery, complete with a meal planning guide , packing list and camping gear guide .

Remember to keep our natural places beautiful and leave no trace .

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Phillip Island, Victoria © Visit Victoria

9-day Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

Between Australia's two biggest cities you'll find relaxed seaside towns, national parks teeming with wildlife and long beaches where your feet are the only ones on the sand.

Written by Sydney-Melbourne Touring

Embark on a  Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Discovery road trip and along the way stop to explore the tranquil villages and delicious oyster farms of the New South Wales South Coast, stretch your legs in some of Victoria's most spectacular national parks and enjoy gourmet produce in Gippsland. Spot tiny penguins waddle up the beach on Phillip Island, then finish this iconic road trip in the food and culture mecca that is Melbourne. 

What to expect

• Taste fresh oysters along Australia's Oyster Coast
• Spot wild koalas and echidnas on Raymond Island
• Take an epic wilderness cruise in Wilsons Promontory
• Time: 9 days
• Distance: 1,540 kilometres (958 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Sydney and Melbourne

9 day Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay

Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW/Filippo Rivetti

Start your journey in  Sydney  and travel south to the Royal National Park. Stop at Bald Hill Lookout and take in dazzling coastal views before driving over the dramatic Sea Cliff Bridge. You'll soon arrive in Wollongong, where you can walk along the waterfront promenade, aptly named "The Blue Mile."

Drive another 1.5 hours south to the idyllic seaside town of Kiama. Be sure to watch the famous Kiama Blowhole shoot water 60 metres (200 feet) into the air.

Another one-hour drive and you will reach  Jervis Bay . The rest of the day should be devoted to the town's white-sand beaches. Choose from Callala Beach, Hare Bay, Chinamans Beach, Murrays Beach and – the most famous of them all – Hyams Beach. If you are a wildlife lover, be sure to book onto Jervis Bay Wild's dolphin watching cruise. 

Finish the day with some tasty fish and chips; sit by the bay and enjoy it with a beautiful sunset.

Spend the night in a three, two or one-bedroom cabin at The Cove Jervis Bay .

Day 2: Jervis Bay to Tilba

Region X Kayak Tour, Batemans Bay, New South Wales © Eurobodalla Coast Tourism

If you have time, book the multi-day Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness Experience in Narooma for profound insight into the local Yuin culture. 

Take a morning cruise from Huskisson to spot resident dolphins, seals and even whales (during migration season between May and November).

After returning from your cruise, continue about 1.5 hours south to Batemans Bay. Foodies should visit  The Oyster Shed  or join the Oyster Tasting Kayak Tour  to indulge in the freshest oysters from Clyde River. If you are looking for a thrill, take a  scenic flight over the coast or hit the tracks and explore the area on an e-bike tour .

Families are also spoilt for choice in Batemans Bay. Join a kayak tour  or visit the family-favourite  Mogo Wildlife Park .

Drive from Batemans Bay to historical Tilba, where relaxation awaits. Choose to spend the night in the glamping tents at Tilba Lake Camp , or the award-winning B&B at The Bryn .

Day 3: Tilba to Merimbula

Central Tilba, New South Wales © Eurobodalla Coast Tourism

Start the day with a wander through the main street of Central Tilba, lined with preserved weatherboard shops full of local art and crafts, antiques and gourmet produce. You might also like to visit the enchanting Foxglove Gardens  in the nearby village of Tilba Tilba.

Hop in the car and take the scenic route south and stop at Wallaga Lake to view the ancient Camel Rock and Horse Head Rock ; be sure to stay on the elevated walking track. A short drive away is Bermagui. Take a dip at the Blue Pool and taste the freshest catch at Bermagui Fishermen's Wharf.

Continue driving about 45 minutes through Mimosa Rocks National Park to another quaint coastal town, Tathra. Visit the heritage-listed  Tathra Wharf , a prime spot to watch the whale migration in spring  (September to November).

Your final stop of the day is Merimbula, where you can take a relaxing lakeside stroll along the Merimbula Boardwalk. Check into your accommodation at Merimbula Lake Apartments .

Day 4: Merimbula to Gipsy Point

Humpback whale, Eden, New South Wales © Warwick Kent courtesy of Sapphire Coast Tourism

Start the day with a morning splash at Spencer Park Beach. The shallow, waveless water makes this a popular spot for families with small children.

Join a  Magical Oyster Tour with ‘Captain Sponge’ to visit his farm on the water, or gain insider access to the state-of-art processing factory at Wheeler’s Oyster Farm .

Merimbula and nearby Eden boast some of the best whale watching in the country. You can learn about these giant mammals at the Eden Killer Whale Museum , which is a part of the Killer Whale Trail , comprising five popular whale watching spots dotted from Twofold Bay to Ben Boyd National Park.

Travel further south and you will enter East Gippsland in Victoria . Discover walking trails and Gabo Island’s historic lighthouse before hiring a boat at nearby Gipsy Point to explore the waterways. 

Spend the night at Gipsy Point Lodge , choosing between guest rooms and self-contained cottages.

Day 5: Gipsy Point to Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance, Gippsland, Victoria © Destination Gippsland

Today you will be travelling through Croajingolong National Park, an ecologically significant coastal reserve. Keen hikers should explore popular trails including Genoa Peak Walk ,  Point Hicks Lightstation Walk and Thurra River Dunes Walk .

After driving for about 1.5 hours, stop and stretch your legs at Orbost. If you have time to spare, take a side trip to see limestone formations inside Buchan Caves , one of the eleven Indigenous sites of significance on the Bataluk Cultural Trail .

Continue your drive until you arrive at the Gippsland Lakes and get ready to explore the largest inland lake system in Australia. You can hire a boat, kayak or cruise to explore the waterways from popular towns such as Lakes Entrance, Metung and Paynesville. Feel the golden sands between your toes on Ninety Mile Beach, or take the free, five-minute ferry ride from Paynesville to Raymond Island . This place is famous for its wild koala population, as well as echidnas and colourful native birds.

Finish the day in Lakes Entrance, checking in to The Esplanade Resort & Spa for the night.

Day 6: Lakes Entrance to Walhalla

Walhalla, Victoria © Destination Gippsland

Depart the Gippsland Lakes and head inland. A 1.5-hour drive will bring you to Sale. Stop to explore wetlands, gardens and galleries, then continue to the photogenic gold rush village of Walhalla.

Embrace the charm and history of Walhalla. Follow the tramline walk to get postcard-worthy views, venture deep underground on a  gold mine tour  or take the scenic railway through stunning Stringers Gorge, over trestle bridges and across the impressive Thomson River Bridge.

Enjoy country dining and stay overnight at  Walhalla's Star Hotel , with decor that subtly reflects the town’s gold rush mining past.

Day 7: Walhalla to Wilsons Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, Gippsland, Victoria © Pennicott Wilderness Journeys

Did you know?

Gippsland's Squeaky Beach is named for its quartz sand. The sand particles are so fine, they make a squeaking sound when you walk.

Head south from Walhalla this morning, and explore Tarra Bulga National Park, one of Australia’s southernmost temperate rainforests. Stop at Fern Gully Nature Walk and Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk  to find fern-filled gullies, towering trees, trickling mountain streams and sparkling waterfalls.

Continue to Yarram and view the stunning Heesco murals  before another one-hour drive to reach the ruggedly beautiful Wilsons Promontory National Park. "The Prom," as it’s affectionately known to locals, boasts incredible walking track and trails , stunning beaches and abundant wildlife. Climb to the summit of Mt Oberon for a 360-degree vista, follow a wildlife walk  to say hello to kangaroos, wallabies, emus and wombats, or wander through the bush from Tidal River to Squeaky Beach . A Wilsons Promontory cruise along the rugged coastline is a must-do.

If you're eager to spend the night within the park, you'll find a range of options from Parks Victoria .

Day 8: Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island

Penguin Parade, Phillip Island, Victoria © Phillip Island Nature Parks

Travel through South Gippsland and pop into local wineries and breweries  along the way. Continue to Inverloch, then follow the Bunurong Coastal Drive for stunning coastal views.

Just another 30-minute drive and you’ll reach Phillip Island , which boasts a long list of incredible experiences. See one of Australia’s largest wild fur seal colonies on a tour with  Wildlife Coast Cruises , take a scenic helicopter flight to view the entire island from above, or get your adrenaline kicks at the  Grand Prix Circuit .

Then wrap up the day at the world-famous  Penguin Parade , where you can watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore as they return from a day at sea.

Spend the night at Five Acres luxury coastal cabins .

Day 9: Phillip Island to Melbourne

Moonlit Sanctuary, Pearcedale, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast while deciding how to spend your final day along the Coastal Discovery Drive. Families should marvel at the optical illusions, mazes and magic at A Maze’N Things , or indulge in the sweet treats at Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate .

About halfway through your two-hour drive to Melbourne, stop at  Moonlit Sanctuary  to meet endangered Australian native animals in a natural bushland setting, during the day or on their magical evening walks.

Make your final drive to Melbourne , a city of café culture, fashion, art, sport and an amazing array of cuisine to please any palate.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Best Road Trips from Sydney to Melbourne (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

Best Road Trips from Sydney to Melbourne (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

Planning an epic backpacking trip in the land down under? We bet that Sydney and Melbourne are two cities firmly on your agenda. But the real adventure is what sits between these two gleaming metropolises.

Glistening white sand beaches and ancient rainforests. Quirky towns you’ve probably never heard of. Fragrant vineyards and snow-capped mountains. Rad surfing spots and ski resorts. And naturally, an abundance of exotic Aussie wildlife.

We’re sure you’d rather explore these incredible landscapes on your own, rather than squeezed onto a tourist bus. That way, you can experience the real ‘Straya. All you need is a stellar Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary… and someone to plan it for you.

So, that’s where we step in. We’ve created two awesome road trips from Sydney to Melbourne. One follows the tropical coast, the other snakes through towering mountains and alpine forest. In fact, you could even take one route to Melbourne, then the other back to Sydney!

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Why Roadtrip from Sydney to Melbourne?

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While travelling Sydney and Melbourne is already incredible in itself, there’s an abundance of adventure between the two cities that shouldn’t be missed.

Here are the five top reasons why our road trips from Sydney to Melbourne are a journey of a lifetime:

• You’ll see landscapes that’ll make you double-take. Travelling through both New South Wales and Victoria, you’ll notice these regions are packed with all kinds of scenery – ranging from stunning coastlines to some of the tallest peaks in Australia.
• It’s a chance to experience the great outdoors. It’s a chance to experience the great outdoors. Whichever road trip you pick, you’ll break up the drive with hiking and all kinds of outdoor activities – even skiing if you travel during winter. During summer, chuck a tent in your rental and turn your road trip into a proper walk on the wild side.
• Awesome surfing. You’ll have plenty of surfing opportunities on the road from Sydney to Melbourne. That is, providing you follow our coastal route. If that’s not enough, you can go sand-surfing down mega dunes and snorkel in crystal-clear water!
• Explore cool cities and historic towns. While our road trips from Sydney to Melbourne are nature-focussed, you’ll have the chance to see some of Australia’s most interesting urban areas too; these vary from laid-back beach resorts to historic gold mining towns and the Aussie capital itself.
• Fascinating wildlife. From cutesy koala bears to curious kangaroos and snack-stealing possums, these territories are teeming with wildlife! Coordinate your Sydney to Melbourne vacation trip planner between May – November and you’ll have a good chance of spotting a whale or two as well.

Coastal Drive – Sydney to Melbourne (9 days)

The alpine way – sydney to melbourne (5 days).

• From:  Sydney
• To:  Melbourne
• Total Distance:  1,438 km
• Days:  9 days
• Top Road Trips Stops:  Royal National Park, Jervis Bay, Pebbly Beach, Croajingolong National Park, Wilson’s Promontory, Phillip Island

This route hugs the sensational Pacific Coast and has plenty of opportunities to surf (or work on your Aussie tan). You’ll also dip into some of Australia’s best national parks , where we can meander through ancient forests and clamber up mountains.  This is easily the best road trip from Sydney to Melbourne for beach bums, surfers, and wildlife lovers.

Road trip highlights:

• Sunbathe on the beach as wild kangaroos bob past
• Spot whales (May – November) from the beach or take a boat excursion to get your close-up
• Stretch your legs in Australia’s oldest national park
• Dine on ocean-fresh oysters while you sit back and admire the Sapphire Coast
• Boogie board down the sand dunes of Croajinolong or Wilsons Promontory

Day 1: Sydney to Wollongong (2 hours 30 minutes)

Say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of the city, and prepare yourself for a complete change of scenery.

This drive takes you through Australia’s oldest national park, home of gushing waterfalls, eucalyptus bushlands and emerald lagoons. Stop and check out the scenery with one of the shorter forest trails. Once you arrive in serene Bundeena, you can take your pick from kayaking or stand up paddle-boarding.

If you have time, you can also walk to the Wedding Cake Rock before taking the Grand Pacific Drive south. Plenty of chances to stop off and admire the viewpoints before you cruise over the scenic Sea Cliff Bridge!

• Best stops:  Royal National Park, Bundeena, Wedding Cake Rock
• Where to eat: Big Red Cafe, Driftwood Cafe, The Scarborough Hotel
• Where to stay: Wollongong Surf Leisure Campground ($), Wollongong Backpacker’s Keiraleagh ($), Beachside Studio ($$)

Day 2: Wollongong to Jervis Bay (2 hours)

Grab one of the funky caffeine creations at Ariel’s Coffee before hitting the road. You’ll follow the coastal road south soaking up those azure views. Fancy catching a wave? The Killalea Reserve is the place and is awesome for newbies too.

Alternatively, Kiama is another option for surfers. While you’re here, check out the blowhole – which is visible even at low tide. Once you get to Jervis Bay, you can sink your toes into that famous white sand – the whitest in the world, according to the rumours. If you’ve got your camping gear with you, this is a great place to pitch your tent for the night. 

• Best stops: Port Kembla, Kiambla Blowhole, Killalea Reserve, White Sands Walk
• Where to eat: Ariel’s Coffee, Penny Whistlers, Hyam’s Beach Store and Cafe
• Where to stay: Cave Beach Campground ($) Jervis Bay Holiday Park ($$) Jervis Bay Oasis ($$)

Day 3: Jervis Bay to Eden (4 hours 20 minutes)

Ever wanted to sunbathe alongside kangaroos on the beach? Today your dream can come true at Pebbly Beach, which a local clan of roos has claimed for themselves. Break up today’s drive as and when with stops at small towns and picturesque beaches along the Sapphire Coast.

Wildlife lovers – take a gander around Birdland Animal Park, home to koalas, wombats, snakes and native birdlife. Meanwhile, love ‘em or hate ‘em, no Sydney to Melbourne vacation trip planner is complete without knocking back some oysters. Sample the goods at Tathra Beach Tapas, or once you’ve arrived at Eden.

• Best stops: Booderee Botanic Gardens, Pebbly Beach, Birdland Animal Park, Mimosa Rocks, Tathra
• Where to eat: The Treehouse Cafe, Tathra Beach Tapas, Drift
• Where to stay: Eden Nimo Motel ($) Twofold Bay Villas ($$$)

 Day 4-5: Eden to Croajingolong National Park (2 hours)

Eden is one of the best places to spot whales in NSW, so we recommend starting the day with a whale-watching excursion. Then,  drive straight to the Croajingolong National Park to maximise your time there. You can surf the giant dunes, hike, swim and kayak. It’s an adventurer’s playground.

If you skipped the whale-watching, you might get lucky and spot one from the beach. Also, keep your eyes peeled for monitor lizards, bandicoots, and all kinds of birds. Book accommodation for two nights so you can spend the whole of tomorrow exploring the national park as well.

• Best stops: Whale Watching from Eden, Croajingolong National Park
• W here to eat: Sprout Eden, Greek Soul Food, Lucy’s
• Where to stay: Croajingolong campground – choice of 4 sites ($), Mallacoota Shady Gully Caravan Park ($$)

Day 6-7: Croajingolong National Park to Wilsons Promontory (5 hours 45 minutes)

After a full day of adventuring and soaking up the unspoiled wilderness of Croajinolong, you’ll be settling into a long comfy drive today. Along the way, you can admire the lush alpine scenery of the mountainous Snowy River National Park.

Once at Wilsons Promontory (mainland Australia’s southernmost tip), there are loads of activities to choose from, so we recommend staying for two nights. Choose to scuba dive or snorkel in the marine reserve or hit the surf. Maybe give your lungs a run for their money with the hike to the summit of Mount Oberon – it’s short but steep. Or, grab a board and surf the giant dunes on the peninsula.

• Best stops: McKenzie River Rainforest Walk, Snowy River National Park, Cabbage Tree Creek, Mount Raymond Lookout
• Where to eat: Cabbage Tree Creek General Store and Bushware Cafe, Wishing Tree Cafe, The Rhythm Cafe & Restaurant
• Where to stay: Tidal River Campground ($), Sandy Point Beach Escape ($$), Olivi ($$$)

Day 8: Wilsons Promontory to Phillip Island (1 hour 50 minutes)

This short drive has heaps of surf stops and seaside towns to stop off at. Once at Phillip Island, you’ll find wineries, wildlife parks and cruises to explore. Don’t forget to get down to Penguin Parade in time to watch the penguins come home to nest!

• Best stops: Venus Bay, Inverloch, Cape Patterson, Nobbies Centre, Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, Koala Conservation Centre
• Where to eat: Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses, Beach Box Cafe Inverloch, Bani’s Restaurant & Bar
• Where to stay: The Island Accommodation YHA ($), Bohemian Beach Bungalow ($$), Banksia Beach Cottage ($$)

Day 9: Phillip Island to Melbourne (2 hours 30 minutes)

After a leisurely morning on Phillip Island, time your first stop at San Remo to coincide with the noon pelican feeding. You might also spot a ray off the beach here while you eat your fish and chips!

Follow the coastal road to Melbourne for beautiful seascapes and the chance to stop for a final spot of surfing. We told you this route would be popular for surfers! Tonight, we’ll part ways in Melbourne over a local brew and toast the end of an awesome road trip. make sure you have a great night sleep as well by staying an one of the awesome Airbnbs in Melbourne . After being on the road for so long, you’ll appreciate some privacy and a comfy bed.

• Best stops: Cadillac Canyon, San Remo, Maru Koala & Animal Park, Brighton Beach, Chelsea Beach
• Where to eat: Madcowes, Purple Hen Winery, One Fine Day Cafe, The Baths Middle Brighton
• Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), Bellbird – Free wi-fi plus breakfast first morning ($$)
• From:  Sydney
• Total Distance:  1,278 km
• Days:  5
• Top Road Trips Stops:  Canberra, Southern Highlands, Kosciuszko National Park, Thredbo Alpine Village, Mount Macedon

Yearning for crisp mountain air and maybe a sly day on the slopes to break up your drive? Then you’ll want our alpine Sydney to Melbourne road trip itinerary.

The landscape of this route will vary depending on whether you take a road trip in autumn/winter (March-August) or spring/summer (September-February). As will the activities – during summer the ski resorts turn into hubs for hiking and biking. This road trip also takes you through the Aussie capital, some cute mountain villages and heritage towns where you can indulge your inner culture vulture.

• Spend an evening in Australia’s capital and cultural hub, Canberra
• Ski, mountain bike, or simply admire the scenery of the majestic Snowy Mountains
• Clock a view of Australia’s tallest peak, Mount Kosciuszko
• Hunker down in the wilderness at a picturesque campsite during summer (plus, save some dollars at one of the free campgrounds we’ve found)
• Explore the natural beauty of Barmah National Park

Day 1: Sydney to Canberra (3 hours)

After an hour of driving south from Sydney, the landscape pops with greenery: you’ll see rolling valleys, springy meadows and fairytale forests. Stop off at some of the quaint villages and take a short walk – the Berrima River Walk is a one-hour return with the chance to spot a platypus. This area is also crawling with vineyards, where you can grab a bottle to enjoy at your final destination for the day, Canberra.

Once in Canberra, it’s over to you how you want to spend your time in the capital. Relax in Canberra’s best accommodation, or delve into Aussie history with a museum or gallery. Alternatively, chill by the river and people watch!

• Best stops: Southern Highlands, Bowral, Berrima, Mittagong Lookout, Australian War Memorial
• Where to eat: Lake George Winery, Cherry Hill Wines, The Surveyor General Inn
• Where to stay: Canberra City YHA ($), Charming Tiny House in the Heart of Old Griffith ($$)

Day 2: Canberra to Jindabyne (2 hours)

Buckle up – today, you’ll head into the heart of the Snowy Mountains – home of Australia’s tallest peak and activities galore. If you want to plan a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne in winter, this one is a spectacular drive through snowy winter wonderlands.

Once the snow arrives, the Snowy Mountains are alive with skiing and snowboarding (note that the best time to hit the slopes is in July and August). On the other hand, you can hike, bike, and then cool down with watersports during the summer. There are even helicopter flights around Mount Kosciuszko if you’re feeling really flush.

• Best stops: Kosciuszko National Park, Nanny Goat Hill Lookout (Coomba)
• Where to eat: Kuma Pies & Pastries, Rawsome Earth Cafe, Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery, Alpine Larder
• Where to stay: Island Bend Campground (free), Siesta Villa ($$)

Day 3: Jindabyne to Albury-Wodonga (3 hours 35 minutes)

Follow the Alpine Way west to Albury-Wodonga. This scenic tourist drive winds its way steeply through alpine forests and snow-capped peaks. In summer, you can hike the Dead Horse Gap trail, or in winter, squeeze in some skiing at Thredbo.

One you leave the clutches of the Snowy Mountains, you’ll cruise through small charming towns steeped in history. Albury-Wodonga is made up of two cities right by the state borders, so you’ll be half in NSW and half in Victoria!

• Best stops: Thredbo Alpine Village, Khancoban, Murray Gorge, Avondale Gardens, Tallangatta, Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA), Lake Hume
• Where to eat: Avalanche Cafe, Trev’s Place, Tallangatta Bakery, La Maison Restaurant, HAPI
• Where to stay: Australia Park Motel ($), Attico – A Loft in the Heart of Albury ($$)

Day 4: Albury-Wodonga to Moama (2 hours 50 minutes)

Follow the M31 so you can explore some interesting small towns. There’s an old printer in Chiltern which is pretty cool to check out, or enjoy a spot of kayaking at Wangaratta.

Once in Moama, you can explore the official paddle steam capital of Australia. Take a ride on a riverboat ourselves and take in the red river gums. Alternatively, you can saddle up for a horse riding session at Billabong Ranch. The Barmah National Park is a final chance for you to fill our lungs before reaching the big city. You can hike and even camp here for the evening. Check out local event listings for Moama; the city often hosts music and craft festivals. 

• Best stops: Chiltern, Wangaratta, Barmah National Park
• Where to eat: Hub 62, The Baker’s Wife, The Sweet Meadow
• Where to stay: Barmah Lakes Campground (free), Mary Ann Road Garden Cottage ($$), Moama Central Motel ($$)

Day 5: Moama to Melbourne (2 hours 40 minutes)

Leaving the serenity of Moama behind, you’ll make a stop at its larger twin, Echuca, before exploring the fragrant gardens of Mount Macedon. The Sanatorium Lake Walking Trail is an easy hike where you can admire the lake and surrounding forestry. You can drive up to the summit of the mountain for views of the surrounding vineyards.

After this, the Organ Pipes National Park trail is a short hike to see the freakish rock formation. You’ll make it to Melbourne in time to grab a cold beer and chill out in Melbourne’s coolest bars .

There’s loads of great places to stay in Melbourne , and we recommend spending a few days here (at least) to make the most of it!

• Best stops: Echuca, Woodend Hanging Rock, Mount Macedon, Forest Glade Gardens, Gardens of Tieve Tara, Organ Pipes National Park
• Where to eat: Hanging Rock Brewery, Rochester Bakery, Bomba Tapas Bar & Rooftop
• Where to stay: United Backpackers ($), Leafy Room with Private Entrance & Bathroom ($$), The Victoria Hotel ($$)

Roads between Sydney to Melbourne are a joy to drive – they’re sealed and in excellent shape. However, do take care when driving in winter, when alpine roads are subject to frostier conditions. 

Meanwhile, renting a car or camper in Australia is extremely straightforward. In fact, thousands of backpackers and holidaymakers do it each year, and there are heaps of rental companies all around the country. 

Renting a Vehicle From Sydney to Melbourne 

Self-driving is the most rewarding way to explore the countryside between Sydney and Melbourne at your own pace, and you’ll get to stop off at all the hidden gems that the tourist buses breeze past.  You can save some dollars while you’re at it, especially if you have a tent with you! 

In order to rent a vehicle in Australia, you need a valid driver’s license from your home country, plus photo ID. Depending on your nationality, you may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

When you collect your rental, your rep will most likely add the following fees to your package. Make sure you factor these costs in when planning a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne:

• Age surcharge. You need to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle in Australia. If you’re between 21 – 24,  you’ll probably need to pay a surcharge.
• Bond/deposit. You will need to pay a deposit/bond which covers the vehicle against any damage. The amount varies depending on the vehicle and the rental company; in Australia, it ranges from $200 – $1000.
• Additional drivers. If you’re planning to share the driving, the rental company will add additional drivers on the rental agreement. Your insurance will not cover you if you have an accident while an unregistered driver is behind the wheel. 

In terms of insurance, all rental companies will try to convince you to purchase their insurance; however, their prices will make your eyes water. Backpacker to backpacker, we recommend checking out RentalCover.com before you collect your car. Their rates are much more budget-friendly, and their cover is comprehensive. This saves you some cash for your other Sydney to Melbourne road trip essentials – snacks!

Road Rules From Sydney to Melbourne

While you plan your road trip from Sydney to Melbourne, note that all Australian territories take their road safety laws very seriously. Aussie police are more than happy to slap you with a hefty fine if they see you going against the handbook. Also, each territory has its own set of road laws.

Here are some unusual rules for driving in NSW and Victoria to bear in mind:

• Think before you honk. Australia has a nationwide ban on unnecessary tooting. Only use your horn when it’s deemed necessary. In both NSW and Victoria, the penalty is almost AU$300.
• Don’t pick up any hitchhikers in Victoria – it’s illegal in the territory and warrants a $30 fine. 
• Mind the gap in Victoria. If you’re more than three metres away from your vehicle, your windows cannot be open any more than five centimetres. It’s a $282 fine if you break the rule! Also, make sure your car is locked to avoid a second fine.
• No flashing while driving. No, not that kind. Flashing your lights in NSW is considered dangerous as it may dazzle the other driver, and could land you a fine.
• No splashing. If you drive through a puddle and splash pedestrians in NSW, you’ll get a police fine and probably the finger from whoever you drenched. 
• Don’t hog the middle lane. No-one likes a middle-lane hogger, especially the NSW police force. Stay in yo’ lane, or pay the price.
• Watch your speed. You can get fines for both speeding and driving too slowly in Australia. 

Okay, that’s enough of the rules. Now, it’s time to start your adventure. 

Browse our Sydney to Melbourne road trip ideas and choose whichever one most excites you. Don’t forget, you can always take one route out, explore Melbourne for a while, and return with the other!

Before you dash off to pick out your comfiest driving thongs and wax your surfboard, we just want to remind you about insurance. As dreary as the topic is (we know), insurance is one of your Sydney to Melbourne road trip essentials. In the event of an accident, car rental insurance is also your new best friend.

In Australia, you are required by law to have Compulsory Third Party (CTP), sometimes known as Green Slip insurance. Your rental desk will offer you either an Excess Waiver, Damage Liability Waiver, or  Reduction Liability Waiver. Essentially, this brings the remaining excess on your vehicle to zero in the event of an accident.

This usually adds $20 – $60 per day to your rental – which ain’t cheap. Instead, we suggest you buy your additional insurance with an independent insurance company, such as RentalCover.com . They’ll cover you in the event that an accident happens, regardless of whose fault it is. Your flat fee usually comes with perks like Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance. We’re sure you won’t need it, but nothing really beats that feeling of peace of mind, does it?

While comprehensive isn’t mandatory, it is something you may want a quote on.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Active Roots Money Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl geopress is a true behemoth amongst water bottles acting as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Active Roots Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Active Roots Camping Hammock

Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

And there you have it! We hope you’ve found the best road trip from Sydney to Melbourne to suit your own adventure style.

We think both routes are rewarding, which is why we’d recommend you to take one route to Melbourne and one on the way back! Just remember to book yourself into some Sydney accommodation ahead of time, backpackers fill quickly in peak season!

The time of year that you take your road trip may also sway your decision – the coastal route is perfect for summer while the inland itinerary is awesome during winter snowfall. Seasons are different down under, so make sure to check the weather ahead of time!

Either way, both of our Sydney to Melbourne road trip ideas are packed with dramatic scenery and exciting outdoor pursuits. This is Australia after all – make the most of it!

Now, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags and sort out your road trip playlist!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Hi Sir, Which car rental company have reasonable price for rental? Thanks in advance.

Bayswater Car Rentals is known as reasonable and accessible car rental in Sydney.

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Find cheap flights from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) from $52

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from sydney to melbourne departing on 5/2. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to melbourne airport (tullamarine).

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Cheap flight deals from Sydney to Melbourne (SYD-MEL)

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If you’re after a quick and easy way to get from the Sydney CBD to Kingsford Smith Airport, the AirportLink train departs from city stations every 10-15min. The journey takes around 13min from Central Station, and you can tap on and off at the stations with an Opal card or credit card. The adult fare is usually between A$ 16 and A$ 20, depending on whether you travel during peak hours.

Are there any rideshare companies operating at Melbourne Airport?

There are a number of rideshare companies permitted to pick up passengers from Melbourne Airport. Rideshare providers meet passengers in two locations, depending on which terminal you arrive at. Qantas and Virgin Australia passengers will arrive in Terminals 1 and 3 and can meet rideshare drivers at Lane 1 of the forecourt, outside the arrivals hall. TigerAir, Jetstar, Rex and AirNorth passengers will arrive in Terminal 4 and can meet rideshare drivers on Level 2 of Terminal 4 Ground Transport Hub.

What is the cheapest flight from Sydney to Melbourne Airport?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Sydney to Melbourne Airport was $52 for a one-way ticket and $103 for a round-trip.

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A passport is not required to fly from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine).

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Only Scoot offers inflight Wi-Fi service on the Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) flight route.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)?

The Airbus A320-100/200 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) flight route.

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oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam are the airline alliances operating flights between Sydney and Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), with oneworld being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)?

There are nonstop flights from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from Sydney to Melbourne, Rex or Virgin Australia?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Sydney to Melbourne are Rex and Virgin Australia. With an average price for the route of $199 and an overall rating of 9.1, Rex is the most popular choice. Virgin Australia is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $183 and an overall rating of 7.7.

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Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) with an airline and back to Sydney with another airline. Booking your flights between Sydney and MEL can sometimes prove cheaper using this method.

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Top tips for finding a cheap flight from SYD to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $85 or less one-way and $177 or less round-trip.
• Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) has two domestic terminals. If you’re flying to Melbourne (MEL) with Qantas, you should be in Terminal 3; if you’re flying with any other airline (like Virgin Australia, Jetstar, TigerAir and Rex), you’ll likely need to head to Terminal 2.
• Sydney Airport has a convenient, onsite pet hotel for passengers who can’t bring their pet on their travels. Hanrob Pet Hotel offers both long-term and short-term accommodation, and the staff provide a premium level of care for pets.
• You’ll find park-and-ride, short-term and long-term parking at Sydney Airport. If you’d like to leave your car at the airport during your trip to Melbourne, you’ll need the long-term car park, which can be found in building P3. The cost varies between A$ 9 and A$ 89 per day, depending on the length of your stay. Weekend trips may be eligible for a flat rate of A$ 79.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Sydney to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)?

Find which airlines fly direct from Kingsford Smith to Melbourne, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Sydney Kingsford Smith to Melbourne

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +20 more

ANA, Air Canada, +21 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +21 more

ANA, Air Canada, +22 more

Nonstop returns

Melbourne to Sydney Kingsford Smith

Top 5 airlines serving from sydney to melbourne.

Enjoyed the comfort of the seats, slight delay to departure time but prompt takeoff and landing.

It asks about entertainment tho it’s not applicable. 10/10 for Rex 👌🏻

Not sure how to answer on the entertainment as there wasn’t any.. Comfort, I wasn’t comfortable as I was on the window side and a morbidly obese man sat in the middle and eased out into my space. I had sciatica so I wasn’t able to move much to get comfortable. Food wise I have a wheat allergy and asked if there was a gluten free option and was given a Byron bay cookie which was lovely tho it wasn’t wheat free. Not to worry. I wasn’t expecting there to be any appropriate snacks for me anyhow. The staff were very generous with the snacks and their concern for the passengers. The staff were amazing tho. Truly amazing ! One of the staff must have noticed my discomfort and helped me out to stand in the back of the plane to stretch which I really appreciated. I would fly with REX again without hesitation. Thank you very much. It was my first flight with you and I look forward to my return flight home on Tuesday. Best wishes to your company 👌🏻

All good, was a one hour flight so no food or entertainment which was expected

Rex is an underrated airline. Its my first time flying them and they were fantastic. the only things that annoyed me about my flight were things other passengers did so it was nothing i or REX could change

Really enjoyed flying with Rex the boarding and booking baggage on was easier than most. I will beat using Rex next time.

On time and a quick flight and staff vert good

Good flight. The food was served a bit late, hence a hurry to finish before landing. Excellent crew and service

Great to have actual hot tastey meal on a flight. Well done

I commend the flight attendants on our SFO-SIN flight who went above and beyond to provide us with extra snacks and food. This type of service makes the flight experience personal and awesome.

Awesome as always. I wish though the cabin for premium was upgraded.... Same old sane old :(

They made me check my carry on even though there was room We un boarded in a strange way but overall it was good

Seating cramped; close to toilet, foul smelling and noisy, very unhygienic and disease risk Free and paid Wi-Fi NOT accessible at all - misleading advertising Very expensive sunglasses disappeared from back seat pouch. Coffee disgusting and cold

Wonderful service, planes and interior in great condition, very pleasant experience

Every thing was fine. Some ild classical Hindi movies should be add

The singapore airline now compared before covid, I like the service before covid. SQ was the best of all airlines but now I am going to look for different airline if I am travelling in asia.

A pc of cake or biscuit at least. The airport was like a maze need to take another bus to the main terminal to immigration.

This time is good . Don’t cancel flight with out early notice .

Very good experience, considering the short flight the meals were served promptly after takeoff.

X class seats in row 3 with the new configuration are very poor in fact I feel 3B and 3E should no longer be considered as X class seat as there is no forward seat pocket available to these seats and greatly reduced leg room due the intrusion of the business class armrests/table module

It was pretty good. Everyone friendly. Like all airlines, the draconian limitations on baggage and weight and not giving even a free soda kind of drags down the experience a bit.

Last 10 minutes boarding they canceled the flight and didn’t organise anything

Estheticly the plane looks great, although the seats are way too upright. If the seats were just slightly more reclined then the comfort level would increase tenfold. I had the stiffest neck after just a short flight due to this. A nap was almost out of the question.

Cabin crew were very professional and welcoming. They certainly appeared to have lifted their game. Congratulations

I know not directly a Virgin "thing" but I hold Virgin responsible for their subcontractors. Had to wait 45 minutes waiting for baggage at PER before the belt conveyor even started. This is unacceptable and hopefully Virgin engages with whoever to pull their fingers out. I realise PER staff are generally slow at the best of times but this was ridiculous. Maybe more seating for those waiting, a cafe in the baggage area for a light meal while we wait or at the very least a troop of dancing girls to entertain the punters while they stare at the conveyor belt start light almost willing it to fire up.

Very poor. Flight was cancelled due to captain exceeding hours. Told to fend for ourselves for 12 hours until a new flight could be done. This meant overnight accommodation in Hobart. Next plane was delayed and no food onboard. No apologies from Virgin. Extremely disappointing.

Flight was cancelled due to a mechanical fault - Virgin rebooked me on a flight 6 hours later so I cancelled and flew with another carrier

Following a marathon flight riddled by delays and changes from Santiago, Chile, my flight to Melbourne from Sydney was on schedule but I was transferred to the next flight. The reason by ticketing and the floor manager was I missed the entry to flight by one minute! That's right, the emphasised that if I was 1 minute earlier I would be on the flight. I asked what was the point them emphasising 1minute overdue and how that helped me or the situation. They didn't care at all. Replying that if it was one minute earlier they would've done something and smirking delivering the information. Australian's do call Australia home, Qantas calls Australian's suckers.

Qantas are unable to service and unfit for purpose, they cannot transport Australians on time to overseas destinations. On top of the inflated ticketing, the Sydney flight to Santiago was impacted because the plane was delayed arriving and then further bungling by Qantas admitting the ground new ground crew in charge of cleaning were not trained. The impact on passengers with connecting flights was tremendous and long ques of frustrated passengers waiting for rescheduling. **Qantas has become the Australian Spirit of disappointment**

Amazing! Was put on the earlier flight and I requested for an aisle seat and was given it. Thanks Qantas!

The service and smooth landing. Food was delicious and the staff was friendly. We arrived earlier than scheduled.

Don’t like last minute airline change. Not able to choose seat earlier.

It's only a short trip from Sydney to Melbourne, which i have done many times. The trip met my expectations

Qantas cancelled my flight for no good reason and rebooked me into a middle seat.

Boarding was terrible - the ground staff member Fredeya at lax was more military than customer service, have never encountered a customer service representative as rude as her. Apart from that all other staff were wonderful and the flight was good.

I travelled first class from LAX to MEL and it was a series of disasters which I put down to lax staff who dont care and a suck it attitude to customers - its all lip service and no delivery. The flight was delayed due to aircraft refuellers putting on 300,000 litres of fuel on a 380Q1. I entered via the first class bridge loaded my bags in the overhead locker. the lady in the next isle in first class also had hers in there as she wasn't allocated a locker over her seat. The attendant asked would I like a champagne - I said yes please. he promptly delivered a empty glass and the glass left on the desk. Then he ignored me for 20 minutes. When i asked him is he out of champagne he gave me the usual rubbish I was distracted. There are four staff and 15 first class passengers - give me a break. the glass stayed there on takeoff and then was still there 9 hours into the flight. When I arrived to my seat I told him I had eaten and wouldn't be eating on the flight - it was 10.30pm. Yet he comes by later 4am ( I happen to be awake) and says are you eating with us? I asked for the bed to be made up - they put a 3 inch 7cm mattress on the chair but as usual the break in the chair - the mattress sinks into it - so I had to move it around so I didnt get my back sunk in the V - Im 187cm tall. The cabinet next to 1K is for staff bags and the toilet is next door. I tried to avoid this seat but couldn't change - in to the flight 8 hours and the cabin rest change over kicks in - this attendant is shining his torch in my eyes taking out and returning his bag. Then the toilet starts flushing and forget trying to get to sleep. Yet no-one else needed torch! 11 hours into the 15.5 hour flight I ask for breakfast - I order two poached eggs, bacon on multigrain toast, tomatos and mushrooms. I get no bacon or toast and have to order it and the eggs are cold. Then I order a coffee which is so badly spilled - and not by air turbulence she brings back a serviette and replaces the first one rather than providing a clean dry saucer! First class in Qantas is a joke as the staff just don't get the meaning of prompt service and attention to detail. I will fly business class rather than first on Qantas as its better value for money but I have been very impressed with United First Polaris and given I fly internationally every month this is going to be my choice.

Everything as good as can be if one flies economy bit not enough toilets!! People were queuing during the whole flight - there are really not enough toilets!!!

For some reason the cabin was kept very cold. Unlike my flight over which i would say was excellent this was a long, cold flight home.

Note that food has to be purchased in flight. No free food. And no entertainment in flight. So I’ve treated these two items as okay which, in this case, means neutral/not applicable.

My Dad needed assistance to board the plane. The Jetstar staff were excellent with him and made the experience a lot easier😁

No food taken so can't rate also no entertainment so can't rate.

Boarding was easy and unstressful, though the early "final call" was a bit off-putting. The crew were pleasant, and the seats were comfortable. The prices for food and drink were reasonable, apart from tea and coffee, where simple percolated coffee was charged at espresso prices. Deboarding was OK, though some Jetstar passengers appear to have a bad habit of pushing forward from their assigned rows, making it more difficult to get out for passengers that have paid a premium to sit up-front. Jetstar might want to look to address this to stop it from spreading.

I got to the airport earlier than I expected, and they let me change to an earlier flight with no trouble.

Flight was delayed by 1 hour, we board then had to sit on the tarmac for another hour before take off. The flight was fine but again another delay with the baggage which took another hour to appear on the carousel.

It was a super crowded time to travel out of Melbourne, but the flight was OK

Worst experience ever flying Melbourne to Phuket. 5 hours delayed! Didn’t land till 1am in the morning. Staff were rude and unhelpful

Check in was awful. Crowded and staff was lazy. Service for food was slow, could have turned off the lights much earlier which could make the red eye flight much more convenient

Book cheap flights from Sydney to Melbourne

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Cheap flights from Sydney to Melbourne

Good to know, when is the cheapest time to fly, popular airports near sydney.

• Sydney Airport (SYD) Sydney 13 min 9 km
• Canberra Airport (CBR) Canberra 2 hr 59 min 243 km
• Newcastle Airport (NTL) Newcastle 2 hr 7 min 132 km
• Shellharbour Airport (WOL) Wollongong 1 hr 31 min 86 km

Popular airports near Melbourne

• Melbourne Airport (MEL) Melbourne 27 min 18 km
• Avalon Airport (AVV) Melbourne 48 min 50 km
• Essendon Fields Airport (MEB) Melbourne 27 min 10 km
• Bendigo Airport (BXG) Bendigo 1 hr 54 min 131 km

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• Los Angeles RUB 67,018 May 10 — May 12 1 stop 23 hr 40 min Fiji Airways
• Melbourne RUB 6,296 May 30 — Jun 3 Nonstop 1 hr 35 min Jetstar
• Singapore RUB 29,372 May 16 — May 20 Nonstop 8 hr 25 min Scoot
• Perth RUB 27,039 May 16 — May 20 Nonstop 5 hr 5 min Jetstar

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How to Travel From Sydney to Melbourne by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Sydney and Melbourne are the largest and second-largest cities in all of Australia, respectively, and both are hugely popular places to visit for locals and foreigners alike. If you're looking at a map of Australia, Sydney and Melbourne look like neighboring cities tucked away on the island's southeast corner, but there's actually 450 miles separating them. Since there are no direct highways that beeline between them, the driving distance is actually much more.

Because of the great distance, flying is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Sydney to Melbourne. Thankfully, it's also the cheapest. However, Australia offers some of the most unique and breathtaking scenery in the world, and you miss out on all of it from 35,000 feet in the air. If you have the time to spare, taking the train or driving yourself are worthwhile options to experience the landscape. Buses are also available, but they're the slowest method and oftentimes the most expensive.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Sydney to Melbourne?

With all of the flight options to choose from, going by plane is by far the most affordable way to get from Sydney to Melbourne. You can choose from multiple airlines and dozens of daily flights to travel on this popular route, from low-cost airlines like Jetstar and Tigerair to full-service companies such as Virgin and Qantas. Tickets start as low as $27 for a one-way flight, which is much less than you would spend on a train or bus ticket. Flights do jump up in price significantly during the high season and local school holidays—such as Australian summer break from December to January—so plan ahead if you're visiting during these times.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Sydney to Melbourne?

In this instance, the cheapest method of transport is also the fastest. The hour and a half flight cuts out an entire day of travel you would spend seated on a train, bus, or car, making it the transit of choice for a majority of travelers. And because the Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL) airports are both well-connected to their respective city centers, travel to and from the airport is quick and effortless. However, some flights to Melbourne fly into Avalon Airport (AVV), which is an hour outside of the city. Pay attention to your flight details when booking your reservation to be sure you are using the right airports.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

The fastest driving route from Sydney to Melbourne is along the Hume Highway, nearly 600 miles of road that cuts through the states of Victoria and New South Wales. It takes about nine hours to complete the drive, although it can be a little longer depending on traffic while leaving Sydney or entering Melbourne. You'll pass through some small towns along the way, but there are no big cities to stop in and the route isn't particularly scenic.

Once you're in Melbourne, parking is hard to find and expensive, as with most major cities. Finding a garage that allows overnight parking is the most stress-free way to leave your car in the city, but you'll pay for the convenience. If you're driving into Melbourne and want to save money, look for parking garages outside of the city center but located near a Melbourne metro stop . Rates will be significantly cheaper and you can just ride into the city from there.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

Taking the train from Sydney to Melbourne—and around Australia in general—is slow and relatively pricey. However, the experience of train travel is well worth the extra time and cost for many travelers, and booking the overnight journey helps to balance out the expense by saving a night of accommodation. Tickets during the low season start at roughly $60 for a one-way trip, while high-season tickets are about $85 (remember the prices you see on the NSW Transport website are in Australian dollars, not U.S. dollars).

Two trains leave each day from Sydney Central Station toward Melbourne Southern Cross Station, one in the morning and one in the evening. Both stations are centrally located and easily accessible to the rest of the city by public transportation. The daytime train is the only way to catch views of the Australian landscape, but the route isn't particularly scenic and spending the night on the train may be a better use of limited vacation time.

Is There a Bus That Goes From Sydney to Melbourne?

Long-distance buses in Australia are comparable in price and time to the train, with the journey taking about 12 hours and tickets starting at roughly $65. The most popular bus companies are Greyhound Australia and Firefly, so compare schedules and prices between the two before finalizing your purchase. And don't forget to look into flights, which are normally much cheaper and will save you several hours of travel time.

Tip: Bus companies will occasionally host special sales, especially on overnight buses during the low season, so check prices frequently to see if you can snag a deal.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Melbourne?

Prices for all types of transport rise significantly during the tourist high season and quarterly breaks for Australian students. The exact dates of school vacations vary from year to year, but they generally last one week in mid-April, two weeks in mid-July, one week at the end of September, and the long summer vacation throughout most of December and January. If your travel plans coincide with any of these dates, book all of your reservations as far in advance as possible.

For the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons of spring (from September to November) or fall (from March to May). Melbourne's winter lasts from June to August, and while it may be too cold to hit up the beach, temperatures are usually warm enough to enjoy being outside with some additional light layers.

What's the Most Scenic Route to Melbourne?

Travelers with a vehicle have a second driving option to get from Sydney to Melbourne. The A1 Highway, also known as the Princess Highway, winds along the coast and drives directly through several national parks. It's a significant detour since it's not only an additional 100 miles compared to the more direct Hume Highway, but the roads are curvier and the speed limit is lower. In total, expect to be on the road for about 12 hours as opposed to nine hours on the faster route. But in exchange for the additional time, the views and landscape are incomparable. If you have the time, the drive is best split up over a couple of days so you can make pitstops in beach towns or campsites to spend the night.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

From Melbourne Airport, the Melbourne City Express Bus shuttles passengers directly from the terminal to the Southern Cross train station in the city center in just 22 minutes. The cost of the bus is about $13 for an adult passenger, but children ride free with a paying adult and there are also discounts for buying a roundtrip ticket. You can buy tickets using cash or credit card at the kiosks in the airport terminal before boarding the bus. Buses run seven days a week and depart every 15 minutes, making it one of the most convenient ways to get into Melbourne.

What Is There to Do in Melbourne?

Melbourne is one of Australia's hippest cities, known for its cool coffee culture , award-winning wines, funky street art , and trendy eateries . The Queen Victoria Market, or "Vic Market" as the locals call it, is one of the best places to get acquainted with local goods and should be one of your first stops. Explore the endless stalls of food, drinks, and souvenirs, and consider booking a food tour to hit up the most iconic spots. If you're visiting during the warmer months, you can't miss out on the nearby beaches , such as Brighton Beach and St Kilda. Australian fauna is one of the biggest draws for visiting the country, and you can visit wildlife sanctuaries just outside of the city to get up close and learn about kangaroos, wallabies, koala bears, Tasmanian devils, and other local species.

The flight from Sydney to Melbourne is one hour and 15 minutes.

Sydney is 545 miles northeast of Melbourne.

If you're driving, it'll take you nine hours to get from Melbourne to Sydney.

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itineraries

Want to go from Sydney to Melbourne by car? This is a great idea! Going on a road trip between Sydney and Melbourne is an amazing adventure and definitely one of the best things to do in Australia !

If you want to travel from Sydney to Melbourne , you may consider taking a flight first. It is indeed the fastest way to do it but if you have a few days ahead of you, it’s worth considering a road trip.

There are so many places to see between Sydney and Melbourne ! The landscapes you will discover when you go on a Sydney to Melbourne drive are incredibly beautiful!

There are two main itineraries. You can either opt for the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive or the inland drive .

They are both great options! I got the chance to go on both and can assure you that they are both worth it. It just depends on what you like and want to see.

The Sydney to Melbourne inland drive is quicker and includes fewer stops.

The Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive is a bit longer and there is way more to see.

It’s up to you to decide what you are more excited about and how much time you have ahead of you.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

How to plan a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne?

Firstly, you will need a car. If you own one then it’s perfect. If you don’t, you can rent a car. I personally used Discover Cars in Australia . I always had good experiences with them.

TOP CAR RENTAL COMPANY IN AUSTRALIA: Discover Cars

They will show you the best deals from both international car rental companies and local ones. Discover Cars also provide great insurance options.

You will also need some road trip equipment. If you are planning on camping, make sure you have a tent, sleeping bag and cooking equipment.

If you want to stay in hotels, then you will just need the basics: clothes, sunscreen , mosquito spray…

What is the most scenic route to drive between Melbourne and Sydney?

There are 2 options. The inland and coastal drive.

They are both great and I can’t tell which one is the best as they both offer very different things. The inland route is shorter and more focused on mountains. The coastal drive, as you can imagine, is more focused on beautiful beaches.

I’d recommend to check out the previously mentioned itineraries and decide what is the best fit for you!

Is it worth driving between Sydney and Melbourne?

Yes! 100%! It’s one of the most amazing road trips in Australia and if you can do it, you should not hesitate!

How much does it cost to drive from Melbourne to Sydney?

It depends on the type of car you will be driving but to give you an idea. It cost about $200 with a Ford Falcon Station Wagon on the coastal drive and about $150 on the inland drive. It can definitely work out cheaper than flying especially if there are more than 2 people in the car.

How long is the drive from Sydney to Melbourne?

If you were to drive all the way without stopping, it takes about 10 hours to drive from Sydney to Melbourne. But if you are here, that means you want to go on a bit of an adventure. I recommend at least 5 days for the inland route and at least 7 days for the coastal drive. You can easily spend up to 3 weeks doing the coastal road trip though.

Road Trip Itinerary 1: Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

If you are looking for a scenic road trip, the coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne will be perfect! It is longer than the inland drive but it has loads to offer!

Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive Map

Quick information about the Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive Road trip

Length : 1300 km

Time : 12 days would be ideal but you anything between 6 and 14 days will work.

1 – Sydney

Sydney is a very cool city. Very different from Melbourne. It’s very lively and a paradise for surfers. Here are a few things to check out while you are in Sydney:

• Opera House
• Sydney Harbour & Circular Quay
• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Bondi Beach

I’d recommend staying at least 3 days in Sydney .

If you wish to book a hotel in Sydney , try to stay in the city centre. There are trains but if you manage to stay near Circular Quay you will get access to everything very easily. It will save you quite some time.

ACTIVITIES IN SYDNEY:

– The rocks walking tour : Perfect to discover the history of the city and this awesome neighbourhood.

– Climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge : A must-do for any thrillseekers! You will get stunning views over the harbour and are signing up for an experience of a lifetime!

– Sydney Opera House Tour : No trip to Sydney would be complete without seeing the Opera House. If you want to learn even more about it, this walking tour will be perfect for you.

– Harbour Cruise : One of the best things to do in Sydney is to go on a boat ride in the harbour. You will get to admire beautiful views with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge in the background.

Click here to see all tours and activities in Sydney.

ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY:

– Budget accommodation: Sydney Central YHA

– Mid-range accommodation: The Ultimo

– Luxury accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.

Click here to see the latest prices for accommodation in Sydney.

2 – Royal National Park

Located in the south of Sydney, the Royal National Park is the best place to start this road trip. You will find a bit of everything there. Hikers are going to love it! There are lagoons, dunes, cliffs, the wedding cake rock and the famous figure 8 rock pools.

It’s such a beautiful place! Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as you will probably be walking a lot.

ACCOMMODATION IN THE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK: Helensburgh Hotel would be the best place to stay. You can easily get there from the figure 8 pools and it’s on the way to your next stop! Click here for more information and to see the latest prices.

Click here to see the complete list of accommodation in the Royal National Park.

3 – Wollongong

Wollongong is located 80 km south of Sydney. This coastal city is perfect to relax for a couple of days and for surfers. You will find loads of long and quiet beaches to relax, read a book, play frisbee and surf! If you want to go for a hike, Mount Keira is a good option.

ACTIVITIES IN WOLLONGONG: If you like surfing, Wollongong is a very good place to do so. The waves are amazing!

Another popular activity is skydiving. Wollongong is one of the best places to skydive in Australia . You will get to enjoy beautiful views over Sydney and the NSW coast! For more information and prices, click here.

ACCOMMODATION IN WOLLONGONG: There aren’t many hotels in Wollongong as it’s known to be a family-friendly destination. However, you will find loads of holidays homes and apartments. Here are a couple of good options:

– Astra Apartments Wollongong CBD. Click here to see the latest prices.

– The Beach House North Wollongong. Click here to see the latest prices.

4 – Jervis Bay

Jervis Bay is the perfect stop if you love beautiful beaches. There are so many of them including Hyams Beach, the whitest beach in the world. The water is clear turquoise. Basically a little piece of heaven!

Located about 3h drive from Sydney, this popular summer holiday destination is ideal if you want to relax on the beach or go scuba diving!

It’s also a great place to go whale watching or walking.

Jervis Bay is home to not only one but 2 beautiful national parks! You can easily spend one day in Jervis Bay and then another one in Booderee National Park.

If you are travelling with a dog , you will particularly enjoy it as there are many dog-friendly beaches and pet-friendly accommodation in Jervis Bay.

ACTIVITIES IN JERVIS BAY: The best things to do in Jervis Bay is going to the beach and go walking. The white sands walk is a great option if you want to discover Chinamans and Greenfield Beach.

If you are going in winter, you must jump on a whale-watching cruise ! Hundreds of humpbacks are migrating up the coast and it’s an awesome thing to see. You can also opt for a dolphin cruise.

Click here to see all tours in Jervis Bay!

ACCOMMODATION IN JERVIS BAY: If you want to know more about this, you can check out my Jervis Bay accommodation Guide.

At a glance, you won’t find much cheap accommodation in Jervis Bay. It’s a popular destination for families so holidays homes are more common. That having been said, the Jervis Bay motel is a great option for all budgets! You can check the latest prices here.

Click here to see the full list of hotels and holiday houses in Jervis Bay.

5 – Eden

Eden will be your last stop in New South Wales. This little fishing village is perfect for whale watching. Of course, whales only come twice a year so you’ve got to check it’s the right season but there is a big concentration of whales coming there each year. Also, it’s a cute place and will be a good stop on that long trip.

To make sure you’re making the best of your day, head to the visitor centre and ask them what would be the best thing to do.

There is a beautiful beach in Eden. You can go on a walk through the bush and then up the beach. It’s quite a nice thing to do. Make sure you are wearing closed shoes though, there are a lot of reptiles there.

ACCOMMODATION IN EDEN: A great place to stay is Heritage House Motel & Units. It’s well located, right by the Killer Whale Museum and is great value for money. Prices are available here.

6 – Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is the opening to Australia’s largest inland network of waterways. You can go on a walk or surfing on the Ninety Mile Beach but also explore the lakes with a kayak or paddleboard.

Stop at the tourist information centre and they will be able to advise you on the best things to do depending on the time you want to spend there.

ACCOMMODATION IN LAKES ENTRANCE: If you are on a budget, the Cunningham Shore Motel will be perfect for you. Another option would be to book a waterfront apartment such as The Wheelhouse .

You can see the full list of accommodation in Lakes Entrance here.

7 – Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Promontory is one of the best national parks in Australia. If you love hiking, you will literally fall in love with the place. The beautiful thing about it is that it’s a mix of mountains and beaches.

The main mountain is named Mount Oberon. The hike to get to the top can be a bit hard but is definitely worth it.

Here are another few hikes worth doing: Lilly Pully Gully, Squeaky Beach, Tidal River and Darby Beach.

You will get to see beautiful landscapes, discover Australian wildlife and walk on white-sanded beaches.

ACTIVITIES IN WILSONS PROMONTORY: The best thing to do in Wilsons Prom is going hiking! You can also opt to go on a 2.5-hour Wilderness cruise.

ACCOMMODATION IN WILSONS PROM: As it is a National Park, you won’t find any conventional accommodation there. That having been said, it’s a great place to camp. There are several national park campsites and you will find free hot showers at the visitor centre.

If you’d rather staying in a hotel, you can do so at the entrance of the park. Prom Gate Getaway would be the best option. Click here for more information and prices.

You can also opt for one of these cosy Airbnbs in regional Victoria.

8 – Phillip Island

Phillip Island is particularly known for being home to many penguins. You can see them all day long but the best moment to see them is at sunset as they gather for the penguin parade. It’s a truly unique experience.

The island itself is very pretty as well and is a great place to go for walks. You can walk along the coast and will get beautiful views on the cliffs. You can also see seals in some places.

There is a bridge between Australia mainland and Phillip Island. It’s very was to access it.

ACTIVITIES ON PHILLIP ISLAND: The most popular activity is going to the Penguin Parade. It only starts late afternoon which means you will get plenty of time during the day to go walking on the coastal walk, jumping on a cruise or taking a short helicopter flight.

ACCOMMODATION ON PHILLIP ISLAND: If you wish to stay on the island itself, you can book a room at Amaroo Park. This motel is great value for money and there is a pool!

Another option is to stay in San Remo so you ready to leave in the morning. Arcadia Phillip Island would be one of the best places to stay. It offers beautiful ocean views and is very comfortable.

9 – French Island

French Island National Park is very underrated and way less famous than Phillip Island. Yet, it’s a great place to go to. You will need to catch a ferry to go on the island but it is worth it.

It’s a great place to discover Australian wildlife. You can spot koalas, walibis and much more. It’s very well preserved and perfect for walks and hikes.

ACCOMMODATION ON FRENCH ISLAND: There aren’t a lot of options when it comes to hotels on French Island however, luckily, French Island Cottage is awesome! You can see the latest prices here.

10 – Mornington Peninsula

Located in the southeast of Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula is a great holiday destination. There are many scenic drives, beaches and walks. It’s a good place to stop by. Very relaxed.

It’s one of the Melbournians’ favourite day trip destination and also a popular destination for romantic getaways in Victoria !

ACTIVITIES IN MORNINGTON PENINSULA: There is so much to do there! Firstly, it’s a great place to go on a spa day . You can also opt for a wine tour (remember, we are on the edge of the Yarra Valley). Finally, you can visit Arthur Seat!

Click here to see the full list of tours in Mornington Peninsula.

ACCOMMODATION IN MORNINGTON PENINSULA: If you are on a budget, Dromana Beach Getaway Motel will be perfect for you. This aparthotel is great value for money and quite well located.

If you can afford something a bit fancier, the By The Beach Apartment is an awesome place to stay at.

Click here to see the full list of accommodation in Mornington Peninsula.

11 – Brighton Beach

Once you reach Brighton Beach , you are already arriving in Melbourne but are still quite far from the CBD. The beach itself isn’t particularly beautiful but the is very famous for having all these Australian beach houses. They are very colourful and it’s a great opportunity to take photos. From the beach, you will get a wonderful view of Melbourne city. It’s very pretty.

You only need to stop by for a couple of hours.

ACCOMMODATION IN BRIGHTON BEACH: At this point in your road trip from Sydney to Melbourne, you might want to head to Melbourne and stay there. However, if you want to enjoy one last night away from the city, staying in Brighton can be a good option.

Caroline Serviced Apartments Brighton is very well located, only a few minutes from the beach!

12 – Melbourne

Yaaaay! You made it! Welcome to Melbourne! Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria and is an amazing city!

There are so many things to do in Melbourne! The CBD is always a good start with Flinders Station, down to Remembrance Monument (where you can get a very nice view of the city). Carlton, the Italian quarter, is great for food and coffee. If you want to go to the beach, you need to go to Saint-Kilda. The only beach in the city, this is a very nice suburb. Very lively!

If you like street art, you need to check out Fitzroy.

ACTIVITIES IN MELBOURNE: There are so many things to do in Melbourne. You will be spoiled for choice! I particularly recommend going on a walking tour as it is a great way to learn more about Melbourne, its culture and history. You can check prices and availability here.

Another great thing to do if you want to discover some hidden gems and the Melbourne food scene is going on a hidden bar tour or food tour.

Finally, if you want to explore more, you can also go on a day trip from Melbourne.

Click here to see all tours and activities in Melbourne.

ACCOMMODATION IN MELBOURNE: Personally, I’d recommend booking a hotel or hostel in St Kilda or Carlton as they are very nice neighbourhoods. It’s easy to access the CBD from there.

Here are a few options:

– Budget accommodation: Summer House Melbourne Backpackers in Saint Kilda.

– Mid-range accommodation: Brady Hotels Jones Lane in Carlton.

– Luxury accommodation: The Westin Melbourne in the CBD.

Click here to see the full list of hotels in Melbourne.

Road trip Itinerary 2: Sydney to Melbourne Inland Drive

If you have less time or would rather seeing mountains instead of the coast, you may want to consider this Sydney to Melbourne inland drive itinerary.

There are fewer stops but it doesn’t make it any less good. Some of these places are pretty incredible!

So, are you ready? Let’s get driving!

Sydney to Melbourne Inland Drive Map

Quick information about the Sydney to Melbourne inland drive Road trip

Length : 1200 km

Time : 6 days (excluding Melbourne and Sydney)

This part doesn’t change compared to the other drive. Feel free to scroll back up to see what to do in Sydney.

2 – Blue Mountains National Park

The Blue Mountains are a beautiful National Park located a few kilometres west of Sydney. The main town is Katoomba, from there you can start many hikes and some viewpoints. Check out the panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters. The Scenic Skyway is a wonderful glass cablecar ride, famous to be the steepest in the world. The hikes will take you through the bush to aboriginal sites and will be an incredible opportunity to discover the wildlife and wonderful landscapes.

The incredible thing about it is that the mountains are actually blue. The eucalyptus trees give this colour to the landscape. Absolutely unique and magical!

ACTIVITIES IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS: The first thing you should do is going to the 3 sisters lookout in Katoomba. From there, you will find a few hiking trails.

If you’d rather going on a tour, you can go on the hop on hop off bus . It leaves from Katoomba train station and will bring you everywhere you need to go.

If you want to do something a bit more unusual, you can go visit the caves. It’s a pretty cool thing to do.

Finally, one for the foodies out there! You can opt for a wine and food tasting at Echo Point.

ACCOMMODATION IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS: If you are looking for budget accommodation, No14 Lovel St hostel will be an excellent option. It’s very well located, in Katoomba.

If you want to get something a bit fancier, you should definitely opt for Kurrara Historic Guest House.

3 – Canberra

Canberra is the capital of Australia. It’s been built on purpose to be the capital, therefore is quite a recent city.

There are many parks and museums. The museums in Canberra are the best you will find in Australia! I particularly recommend the National Museum of Australia.

Canberra is also home to all the parliament and all political institutions.

The city centre is ideal if you want to go shopping.

Finally, if you want to enjoy a beautiful view of the city, drive up the Black Mountain and you will get a 360 degrees view of Canberra.

ACTIVITIES IN CANBERRA: The best thing to do in Canberra is visiting the museums. I highly recommend the National Museum of Australia . It’s very interesting, especially if you want to learn more about Australian culture.

Another popular activity is to go on a brewery tour. Information and prices are available here.

ACCOMMODATION IN CANBERRA: The Little National Hotel Canberra is a great place to stay in Canberra. The location is great, in the CBD. The staff is friendly and the furniture comfortable. What else can we ask for? Click here for more information and see the latest prices.

Click here to see the full list of hotels, flats and hostels in Canberra.

4 – Alpine National Park

Although it’s a bit of a detour, the Alpine National Park is worth it! Located in the central region of the state of Victoria, the Alpine National Park has wonderful mountains, ideal for hiking and skiing! Yes, you can ski in Australia! Check out the following places for the best hikes and skiing experiences: Mount Hotham, Mount Bogong, Mount Feathertop and Falls Creek.

ACCOMMODATION IN ALPINE NATIONAL PARK: If you’d love to stay in a chalet, there is no better place in Australia than the Alpine National Park for that! The Pure Chalet Thredbo is a little gem! Perfect to enjoy your stay! Information and prices are available here.

Click here to see the full list of accommodation in the Alpine National Park!

5 – Melbourne

These two Sydney to Melbourne road trip itineraries are great options and will give you the chance to discover some of the best things to see in Australia. You can also combine them and do a round trip if you wish!

You may also be interested in:

Australia Travel Guide

Places to see in Australia

Day Trips from Melbourne

Things to do in Jervis Bay

Planning a Working Holiday Visa in Australia

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Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip – Coastal Drive with Itinerary and Cost

Normally, the route from Sydney to Melbourne is about 800 Kms. But, the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip along the coast stretches for about 1147 Kms. The road trip begins near from Sydney Harbour Bridge and takes you on an incredible coastal drive ending in Melbourne. During the road trip, you’ll cross national parks, seashores, beautiful towns, amazing landscapes, and much more. So, pack your bags and turn on the car engine for this Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip between two big cities of Australia .

Some Quick Facts about the Trip:

• Cost of the Road Trip by Car
• Cost of the Road Trip by Bike
• Best Time for the Road Trip
• Places to Visit on Route

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

• Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay
• Day 2: Jervis Bay to Eden
• Day 3: Eden to Melbourne
• Day 4 and 5: Exploring Melbourne
• Day 6: Back to Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions

Cost of sydney to melbourne road trip.

For a common understanding, we’ve taken Sydney Harbour Bridge as the starting point of this trip. Our cost estimations for the Sydney to Melbourne trip will include fuel, hotel, food, and tourist destinations fee. So, you’ll be getting a quite clear idea of trip cost. Also, as mentioned above, all the prices indicated in this guide are in US$s.

Cost of Trip by Car:

• Fuel (Petrol) – On the average of 14 kilometres per litre, the car will be consuming 164 Liters of fuel (Sydney >> Melbourne >> Sydney) which will cost you $147.
• Food – Food will cost you about $50 per day for four people. So, the approximate cost of food will be $300 maximum.
• Accommodation – You’ll easily get a decent hotel stay at $60-$100 per night, So the cost of the stay will be approximately $320 to $400. Also, we’ll be mentioning hotels in the itinerary of each day.
• Miscellaneous – For other expenses like tickets, toll taxes, repairs, etc., you can count $150 extra.
• Total – Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip by Car will cost you approximately $917 for four people .

Cost of Trip by Bike:

• Fuel – On the average of 25 kilometres per litre, the bike will be consuming 95 Liters of fuel (Sydney >> Melbourne >> Sydney) which will cost you $86.
• Food – Food will cost you about $30 per day for two people. So, the approximate cost of food will be $180 maximum.
• Accommodation – You’ll easily get a decent hotel stay at $60-$100 per night, So the cost of stays will be approximately $320 to $400. Also, we’ll be mentioning best hotels to stay in the itinerary of each day.
• Miscellaneous – For other expenses like tickets, toll taxes, repairs, etc., you can count $100 extra.
• Total – Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip by bike will cost you approximately about $686 for two people .

Best time for Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip

How much you enjoy on a trip very much depends on the weather conditions. Pleasant weather can make your trip where hot weather can ruin it. So, it is crucial to ensure that the weather must be good during the trip. The best weather for traveling on Sydney to Melbourne route will be from October to Mid February . From October to Mid February, you’ll find sunny weather, which will be suitable for traveling.

Places to Visit on the Road Trip

There are plenty of places that you can visit and experience on your Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip. Swimming in the Jervis Bay, sight whales in Eden, hiking in Wilsons Promontory National Park, sight seals, penguin, and koalas and a lot more. So, let’s hop on and see what those places are lying on your route. The list of these places will help you sort the places you want to visit and what you don’t. We’ve prepared Itinerary of Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip just after this section, so you’ll find all these places mentioned in the itinerary.

• Royal National Park, Sir Bertram Stevens Dr
• Figure 8 Pools, Lilyvale
• Garawarra State Conservation Area, Helensburg
• Old Helensburg Station, Helensburg
• Otford Lookout, Otford
• Bald Hill Lookout, Lawrence Hargrave Dr
• Stanwell Park Beach Reserve, Stenwell Park
• Coalcliff Beach, Clifton
• Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton
• Thirroul Beach Reserve, Thirroul
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse, Wollongong
• Cudgeree Islands, Lake Illawarra
• Killalea Reserve, Shell Cove
• Jamberoo Action Park, Jamberoo (A bit away from Coast)
• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, Knights Hill (A bit away from Coast)
• Budderoo National Park, Budderoo (A bit away from Coast)
• Seven Mile Beach National Park, Gerroa
• Shoalhaven Zoo and National Park, North Nowra
• Jervis Bay Marine Park, North Nowra
• Boodeere National Park, Jervis Bay
• Meroo National Park, Woodburn
• Mogo Zoo, Mogo
• Eurobodalla National Park, Potato Point
• Horse Head Rock, Wallaga Lake
• Eden Killer Whale Museum, Eden
• Ben Boyd National Park, Edrom
• Genoa Falls, Genoa
• Croajingolong National Park, Wingan River
• McKenzie River Rainforest Walk, Club Terrace VIC
• Stony Creek Trestle Bridge, Nowa Nowa (Not so Interesting Place, Abandoned Railway Bridge built of wood)
• Jemmys Point Lookout, Kalimna
• Long Jetty Port, Welshpool
• Kilcunda – Harmens Haven Coastal Reserve
• Phillip Island National Park
• Yarra River, Melbourne
• Filnders Street Railway Station, Melbourne
• Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne
• Federation Square, Melbourne
• Royal Botanic Gardens Victorial, Melbourne
• Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne
• National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
• Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne
• Melbourne Museum, Melbourne
• SEA LIFE Melbourne Museum
• Puffing Billy Railway
• Luna Park Melbourne
• Crowne Melbourne
• Royal Exhibition Building
• Healesvilee Sanctuary
• Werribee Open Range Zoo
• Fitzroy Gardens
• Port Phillip Bay
• Dandenong Ranges National Park
• Brighton Beach
• Arthurs Seat Eagle
• Cape Schanck Lighthouse

With so many places to visit on the route, you will have fantastic travel experience on this trip. The starting point of this Australian Coastal Road Trip will be Sydney Harbour Bridge. We have tried putting the maximum information we could. We hope this Itinerary will be perfect for your road trip plan or will help you with planning a new plan by yourself.

Day 1: Sydney to Jervis Bay (265 Kms)

Start your ride at about 7 in the morning. The nearest place we’ll be visiting on day one will be Royal National Park as it has many cliffs, beaches, and bushlands. Royal National Park is just about 35 Kms ahead of Sydney. Our first stop will be Figure 8 Pools in Lilyvale, which is a part of Royal National Park. Just a 58 Km (1 hour) drive will get you here.

Figure 8 pools are located on a dangerous rock platform. Visiting Figure 8 pools is only advised during low-tide. If you are thinking of diving in pools, then be very careful, and it’ll be better to avoid swimming in here. There have been multiple reports of death in Figure 8 pools. So, be very careful if you are diving in here.

After Figure 8 Pools, the next stop is Garawarra State Conservation Area which is about 28 Kms from Figure 8 Pools. On our way to Garawarra State Conservation area, we’ll be visiting two lookouts, first being Otford Lookout and second being Bald Cliff Lookout.

Otford lookout is about 16 Kms from 8 Figure Pools. You can take a quick break here looking at the fantastic view of the ocean. Just 2.3 Kms ahead of Otford lookout, you’ll arrive at Bald Hill Lookout . Both the places offer almost similar views, so consider stopping at one as per your choice. Garawarra State Conservation Are is located 9 Kms ahead of Bald Hill lookout. It is a peaceful spot for spending some hours or for a picnic trip and experience waterfalls. People also come to visit Garawarra State Conservation Area for mountain biking and horse riding.

Old Helensburgh Station is situated just close to Garawarra State Conservation Area. So, just a 2 km ride will get you there. It used to be a railway station, now famous as a tourist spot due to its haunting history and glow worm tunnel. Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel was closed in 1915, and now it is quite famous for photography.

Within the next 6 Kms, there are two interesting places. First is Symbio Wildlife park and second is Sri Venkateswara Temple . At Symbio Wildlife Park you can have a really refreshing time with funny koalas and cute kangaroos along with many other lovely species of animals.

Sri Venkateswara Temple is among the most famous Hindu temples in Australia. It is built at the elevation of 400 fee above the sea level. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. You’ll get to see various gods and goddesses along with proper experience of traditional Indian structures.

If you have any plan of visiting a beach, then you can take a break at Coalcliff Beach which is just a few kms away from Bald Hill Lookout. Barely a 5 minutes drive will get you at Sea Cliff Bridge Viewpoint that is quite popular as a viewpoint spot for travellers.

The next place in our list of Day 1 of Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip is Thirroul Beach Reserve . It is a park located on the Thirroul beach. We only recommend visiting here just in case you are looking for a break. Otherwise, you better continue your ride towards our next stop, which is Wollongong Head Lighthouse . Drive for about 15 Kms on Memorial Dr/B65, and you’ll arrive at Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse in about 20 minutes.

Wollongong Head Lighthouse is also known as Flagstaff Hill or Flagstaff Point Lighthouse. It is an active lighthouse that overlooks the Tasman Sea. 25 Kms ahead of Wollongong, you’ll reach Killalea Reserve which is a perfect place for a full day outing. It has is reserved as a public recreation are for surfing, fishing, picnics, bushwalking, and camping. If you want to experience Killalea, then take out a full day and spend it here at Killalea Reserve.

Day 1 is about to end, and we have only two places among which one site is optional for a visit. After visiting remaining spots, we’ll be checking in to the hotel in Jervis Bay and spending the night there. Seven Mile Beach National Park is 35 Kms ahead of Killalea Reserve. It offers a full-day outing experience pretty similar to Killalea Reserve. Our last place for the Day 1 is Shoalhaven Zoo and National Park . We would suggest you visit Shoalhgaven Zoo and National Park instead of Symbio Wildlife Park if you want to experience a complete zoo. So, consider one among the two we mentioned.

Food Places between Sydney and Jervis Bay

• Cafe Diem , 1/114 Parkes St, Helensburgh
• Raya Thai Helensburgh , 4/115-119 Parkes St, Helensburgh
• Altitude 1148 , Southern Gateway Centre, Princes Hwy, Bulli Tops
• Thirroul Beach Pavillion , 23 Cliff Parade, Thirroul
• The Scarborough Hotel , 383 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Scarborough
• The Fraternity Club , 11 Bourke St, Fairy Meadow
• Club Windang , 2-6 Judbooley Parade, Windang
• McDonald’s Warrila , Shellharbour Rd, Warilla
• Berry Donut Van , 73 Queen St, Berry
• KFC , LOT22 Princes Hwy, South Nowra

Fuel Stations between Sydney and Jervis Bay

• Metro Petroleum, Wollongong
• Caltex Kiama, Kiama
• Mobil, Bomaderry
• The Cuddy, Jervis Bay

Best Hotels in Jervis Bay

Golf View Motel

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $65 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Microwave, Heating, and more.

Sussex Shores

Ratings : 8.5/10 Price : US $62 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, and more.

Huskisson Beach Resort

Ratings : 7.9/10 Price : US $68 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, and more.

Day 2: Jervis Bay to Eden (391 Kms)

Start Day 2 early in the morning at about 5 AM. Visit Jervis Bay Marine Park to experience refreshing and breezy weather on the beach. Jervis Bay Marine Park is quite famous for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Spending some early morning hours walking on the white sand will be a memorable experience. Get back to the hotel and have breakfast and check-out as we are heading to continue our road trip for Day 2.

Our first stop for the day will be Booderee National Park which is about 13 kms ahead of Jervis Bay Marine Park via Naval College Road. Both Boodeere National Park and Meroo National Park offers you a clear view of Ocean. If you wish, you can ignore these two places or spend a few minutes here as these places don’t provide anything extraordinary to experience.

Located 53 Kms ahead of Meroo National Park, Mogo Zoo is a small privately-owned Zoo. You can spot many endangered and exotic species of animals at Mogo Zoo. Also, if you love eating meat, then this place has a variety of meat to offer, and you’ll be liking the meal here. Australian Coastal route has many national parks lying on the way. One of the national parks on coastal drive route is Eurobodalla National Park which his about 52 Kms ahead of Mogo Zoo. Eurobodalla National Park is a beautiful place for a full-day picnic. People visit Eurobodalla National Park for a picnic, camping, fishing, boating, and surfing.

Drive for another 50 kms from Eurobodalla National Park, and you’ll arrive at Horse Head Rock in Wallaga Lake. As you can see in the image, this places has a rock that resembles the shape of the head of a horse. Take a break here and spend a few minutes the continue your drive towards Eden Killer Whale Museum in Eden which is about 115 Kms away from Horse Head Rock.

Once you have explored all the places we mentioned for Day 2, we’ll be heading to the hotel for a night and taking the required rest. Next day we’ll be continuing our Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip.

Food Places between Jervis Bay and Eden

• Leonie’s Little Tree Cafe, 38 Tierney Rd, Yatte Yattah
• Pilgrims, The Settlement, Shop 8/9, 97 Princes Hwy, Milton
• Carlo’s Italian Ristorante Bar & Seafood, 18 Wason St, Ulladulla
• Innes Boatshed, 1 Clyde St, Batemans Bay
• Uncle Joe’s Cafe, 23 Village Centre Perry Street, Batemans Bay
• Na SiamThai Restaurant, 1/26 Princes Hwy, Narooma
• Beach Break, 2/65 Andy Poole Dr, Tathra
• Fat Tony’s Bar & Grill, 15 Bega St, Tathra
• McDonald’s Merimbula, 15 Bega St, Tathra
• Wharfside Cafe, Snug Cove, 3/253 Imlay St, Eden
• Sprout Eden, 134 Imlay St, Eden

Fuel Stations between Jervis Bay and Eden

• BP, 197 Princes Hwy, Ulladulla
• Metro Petroleum, 197 Princess Hwy, Ulladulla
• BP, 90 Campbell St, Princes Hwy, Narooma
• Shell, 2 Bunga St, Bermagui
• Enhance, 88 Bega St, Tathra
• Caltex Merimbula, Merimbula
• Caltex Eden, 159 Imlay St, Eden
• Shell, 26 Mitchell St, Eden

Best Hotels in Eden

BIG4 Eden Beachfront Holiday Park

Ratings : 8.5/10 Price : US $60 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Microwave, and more.

Eden Gateway Holiday Park

Ratings : 8.7/10 Price : US $54 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Free Parking, Air-Conditioning, Balcony, Ensuite Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, and more.

Eden Nimo Motel

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $48 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Garden View, Bathtub, Minibar, and more.

Day 3: Eden to Melbourne (706 Kms)

As we have a long day on Day 3, we’ll suggest you continue the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip at around 6 in the morning. Our first stop for the day will be Ben Boyd National Park . Located about 33 Kms ahead of Eden, it is famous for snorkeling and swimming due to its crystal clear water.

Genoa Falls is 62 Kms ahead of Ben Boyd National Park. Located very close to the princess highway, Genoa Falls is a beautiful place to have a quick break. If the weather is pleasant during your visit, you can enjoy sitting by the falls and clicking some pictures.

Day 3 of this Sydney to Melbourne road trip will be more about driving and enjoying the vehicle’s journey. Croajingolong National Park is a beautiful full-day picnic spot located about 30 kms away from the princess highway. This place is quite like the previous national parks which you visited on the road trip so far. So, you can choose between going there or not. It is located on the coast, and the reason we didn’t consider it a prominent place is because of the time it requires. You can visit here on some other day when you can spend a full day here.

We know the picture above is tempting. McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is an Instaworthy place. This bridge is built over McKenzie river hanging with the help of chains. McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is about 82 Kms from Croajinglong National Park, which will take 1 hour and 26 minutes of the ride. View from McKenzie River Rainforest Walk is beautiful, and you can click amazing pictures at this place.

Our next stop will be Jemmy’s Point Lookout , which is about 106 Kms from McKenzie River Rainforest Walk. Jemmy’s Point Lookout is one of the most famous lookout points on this coastal drive. Located in Kalmina Victoria, it offers a breathtaking view of bass strait.

After a 206 Kms long drive from Jemmy’s Point Lookout, you’ll arrive at Long Jetty Port in Welshpool . Long Jetty Port in Welshpool is a long walkway to reach the jet rides. You can enjoy a walk here above the sea. Continue your journey towards Kilcunda Coastal Reserve , which is about 104 Kms from Welshpool. You don’t necessarily need to stop here, but you can enjoy the view going through this place as this is just on the left side of the highway.

Philip Island Wildlife Park is out last stop for Day 3, and then we’ll be arriving at Melbourne. It is just a ride of 25 Kms from Kilcunda. Once you are done exploring Philip Island Wildlife Park, head towards Melbourne and rest in the hotel. We’ll be exploring Melbourne in the next two days of the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip.

Food Places between Eden and Melbourne

• Cann River Bakery, 22 Princes Hwy, Cann River
• Wild Rye’s, 14A Princes Hwy, Cann River
• Cabbage Tree Creek General Store & Bushware Cafe, 12757 Princes Hwy, Cabbage Tree Creek
• Orbust Club Hotel, 63 Nicholson St, Orbost
• THE BIG ROUTE, Nowa Nowa
• Funkey Monkey Cafe, 26 Myer St, Lakes Entrance
• Albert & Co., 201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
• Over the Hedge Cafe, 201 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance
• Lake Whadie Cafe and Indian, 1 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• Desi Grill Bairnsdale, 1 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• McDonald’s, 232 Main St, Bairnsdale
• Wa-De-Lock Cellar Door, 76 Tyers St, Stratford
• KFC Wonthaggi, 48 Graham St, Wonthaggi
• Maccas Store and Produce Cafe, Dalyston-Glen Forbes Rd, Corinella
• Caldermeade Farm & Cafe, 4385 S Gippsland Hwy, Caldermeade

Fuel Stations between Eden and Melbourne

• Shell, 28 Princes Hwy, Cann River
• United, 89 Salisbury St, Orbost
• BP Truckstop, 5327 Princes Hwy, Newmerella
• United Petroleum, 12-20 Princes Hwy, Lakes Entrance
• United Petroleum, 96 Princes Hwy, Lucknow
• BP Truckstop, Main Street, Princes Hwy, Bairnsdale
• Shell, 6 S Gippsland Hwy, Woodside
• BP Truckstop, 105 McKenzie St, Wonthaggi
• Caltex, Soldiers Rd, Bass

Best Hotels in Melbourne

Great Southern Hotel Melbourne

Ratings : 8.1/10 Price : US $41 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Air-Conditioning, Ensuite Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Free WiFi, Refrigerator, and more.

Crown Towers Melbourne

Ratings : 9.2/10 Price : US $233 Per Night, 2 Adults

Facilities : Bathtub, Air-Conditioning, Private Bathroom, Flat-Screen TV, Minibar, Free WiFi, and more.

Riverside Apartments Melbourne

Ratings : 7.7/10 Price : US $49 Per Night, 2 Adults

Day 4 and 5: Melbourne

Melbourne is the second-largest metropolitan of Australia. It continually ranks itself in the list of most liveable cities. There are several places that you can visit in Melbourne during your Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip . We are not going in dept about tthe places. Here is the list of places that you can explore on Day 4 and 5. On Day 6, according to our itinerary, it’ll be time to go back to Sydney so we can call the road trip as completed.

Places to Visit in Melbourne:

Day 6: get back to sydney.

As we have already explored the coastal route, now is the time to head back. We suggest you take the regular route that Google Maps suggests. It will take you 875 Kms and 10 hours to reach back to Sydney.

If you have a question or doubt about anything related to the Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip, please let us know in the comment section below.

Is it worth traveling from Sydney to Melbourne?

Hell Yes!!! Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip is a drive along with the Coast. It offers plenty of amazing and exciting paces that you can visit on route. Many national parks, rivers, lookout points, zoo, wildlife parks, and more lies on the route. This trip is worth traveling 2000 kms round to sydney.

How much time do I need for this Road Trip?

Sydney to Melbourne can be covered in a day even in 10 hours. But, we are going for a road trip so we’ll be exploring a lot of places. This road trip will require 6 Days in which you’ll be exploring 40+ places along with 1 night stay in Jervis Bay, 1 night stay in Eden, and 2 nights stay in Melbourne. Then we’ll be getting back to Sydney on Day 6.

Where do you stop when driving from Sydney to Melbourne?

What is the cost of sydney to melbourne road trip.

Our cost estimations for the Sydney to Melbourne trip will include fuel, hotel, food, and tourist destinations fee. The cost of the trip by car will be $917 approximately by car for four people and $686 by bike for two people.

Is it safe to travel from Sydney to Melbourne by car?

Sydney and Melbourne are two big cities of Australia. Princess highway that connects Sydney and Melbourne is one of the best and safest built highways in Australia. So, without any doubt, Yes It is safe to travel from Sydney to Melbourne by Car if you know how to drive a car.

I love to travel places and write about my experiences and travel guides to help people in making their travel plans with ease. Otherthan traveling and blogging, I work on my internet ventures and provide internet business consulting.

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australia , Road Trip · May 28, 2020

Sydney To Melbourne Road Trip – A Unique Inland Drive Itinerary

Discover the beautiful south coast of new south wales and the unique nature of the snowy mountains with this 5 day sydney to melbourne road trip itinerary.

Driving from Sydney to Melbourne is an iconic road trip, whether you choose to take the Great Ocean Road or the Inland route via the snowy mountains that I will be talking about in this blog post! Being only a short distance, compared with other Australian road trips , the drive from Sydney to Melbourne gives you the opportunity to slow down and spend a little more time exploring each destination along the way! This trip is perfect for a long weekend or week long break and is best done during the summer time!

This Sydney to Melbourne road trip guide includes

• The road trip itinerary
• Road trip tips
• Where to stay along the way
• The best places to visit between Sydney and Melbourne

Our 5 Day Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

Sydney to durras, durras to lakes entrance, lakes entrance to bright, bright to melbourne, tips for australian road trips:, great apps to use:.

• Camper Mate – Shows all the camping spots and what type of vehicle you can take there, the cost and the facilities
• NSW Parks – A great app to discover the national parks of NSW
• All Trails – A hiking app with descriptions or walks and places to visit

Best things to pack on an Australian camping road trip

• A tent – We bought ours really cheaply from K-Mart and it was perfect
• A portable charger – Most free campsites don’t have power!
• Outdoor chairs and/or a picnic mat
• A torch and a light to hang from the tent
• Toilet paper, baby wipes, sanitiser etc.
• 2 Towels (if you have space) – one for the beach and one for a shower
• Blow up beds and duvets instead of mats and sleeping bags if you are diving and have space in the car!

Where to Stay on the Sydney to Melbourne drive

We decided that on the drive from Sydney to Melbourne, we wanted to make our road trip as close to nature as we could. This meant stopping at all the natural wonders, swimming in lakes and waterfalls, and camping. This meant that we could drive into the bush and stay in the National Parks in the Snow Mountains and along the beach in Durras! Below are the campsites we stayed at!

Campsites between Sydney and Melbourne:

Durras lake north holiday park, durras.

$33 a night for an unpowered camp site This was quite an expensive campsite but it was the only one open at the time of year we were travelling (late March). It was located just 100m from Durras North Beach, a beautiful plane of golden sand. The amenities were all really nice (although you did have to pay extra for the shower) and there was a BBQ and picnic area!

Goongerah Camping Ground, Lakes Entrance

Free campsite This was a free campsite that we found through the CamperMate App. It was on an off road track, which we drove in a 2WD and it was ok, but i would not necessarily recommend it! The road was about 10 minutes long, down a big hill. At the bottom was the most incredible little campsite next to the river! You could swim here in the river and it is a great place for kids!

The campground has a toilet and each site has its own fire pit!

The best places to visit on your Sydney and Melbourne road trip

This drive takes around 4 hours without including stops! There are so many places you can stop on this part of the drive, and I would recommend spending a night along the way maybe in Jervis Bay if you have time! There are some great campsites in the bush and secret beaches to go and see!

Seacliff Bridge

You have probably seen so many pictures of this bridge! It is on Lawrence Hargrave Drive just south of Clifton. When you arrive there is a 10 minute hike up to this amazing lookout! This is a great spot to put the drone up too!

Kiama is a super beautiful seaside town 2 hours south of Sydney. It is known to be a place most people go for weekends away to escape from the city so can be quite busy on weekend! If you stop here you have to stop at the Kiama Blow Hole . It is a big blowhole on the cliff that you can walk down to and have a look at!

An hour further south of Kiama is Jervis Bay. This is a big bushland area with national parks, seaside towns and beautiful beaches! I would recommend staying one or two nights here, either camping in the national park at somewhere like Green Patch , glamping at The Woods Farm , or staying in a hotel in Huskison .

Places to visit in Jervis Bay:

• To Eat: Kanpai Japanese
• Honeymoon Bay
• Hyams Beach
• Murrays Beach
• Scottish Rocks
• Steamers Beach

Durras is known for having a beautiful long beach that captures the sunset perfectly! There is little in the town itself so I would recommend bring your own food here to cook at the campsite or eat as a picnic on the Durras North beach!

Mallacoota beach

This is probably one of the most beautiful and photogenic beaches I have been to! When you arrive in the car park the part of the beach you see doesn’t look so great but if you walk down to the right, past all the rocks and around the corner, you reach this amazing little rock pool area with crystal clear blue water and big rock formations! We spent hours here swimming around, snorkelling with fish and exploring the rock pools!

Joop’s Jetty

Joop’s Jetty is a crater that was man made as the dismantle site of a gold digging dredge. It is said to be 40m deep at its deepest part! It was such a beautiful swimming spot. There is a jetty to jump off, a floating barge to swim to, and if you swim across to the other side there is a rope swing that you can jump off! It is a beautiful place to stop and swim, or even just have a picnic!

Sinclair’s Waterhole

Sinclair’s waterhole is a part of the river that passes over rocks and forms this amazing pool. The top of the swimming hole is many rocks forming small waterfalls you can sit in, almost like a natural spa! It is not so busy here and a great place to spend the afternoon swimming!

Chinamen’s Waterhole

This is more of a big lake with a beach entry. Its a really beautiful place to swim too but there is less fun aspects to it that the others that are more waterfalls!

Mount Buffalo

Mount Buffalo National Park covers the whole bushland mountain area next to Bright. It has so many waterfalls, hikes and trails you can follow, as well as ski fields in the winter! The Horn at Mount Buffalo is a great walking track, around 45 minutes, to the highest point in the mountain ranges, where you can see a view of the whole landscape! Its amazing!

Ovens River Swimming Pool

This is the main swimming area in Bright, located in the centre of the town by a little park. This area gets incredibly busy, but there is still a lot of space around to find a place to set up and feel like you are by yourself in the water! There are a lot of families around here so it’s a great place to bring kids for a swim!

Lady Bath Falls

These are located in Mount Buffalo National Park. There is a beautiful small waterfall, surrounded by flat rocks and shallow rock pools, so you can sit and enjoy the water flowing down the river! This is probably my favourite of the waterfalls we saw, especially as it was so quiet and there was hardly anyone there! From here, there is a track to 2 other waterfalls, but these are both just view points and neither of them can be swum in!

Rollasons Falls Track

This is a 3km bush track that ends in the most beautiful waterfall! It is very easy walking, although it is all down hill (and then up hill on your way back). The waterfall itself has so many layers and different pools to swim in! The main waterfall has a small pool half way down, and then a larger pool at the bottom (as you can see in the photos below). The water then continues to flow down smaller waterfalls, through rocks pools, to another waterfall further down. It is again, like a natural spa!

From Bright to Melbourne it is about a 3.5 hours drive. You could split this up and make stops along the way as the whole area to the south is made up of different national parks! We were on a tight schedule and had to drive back straight from Bright unfortunately!

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Sydney to Melbourne Train

Explore the most current information on trains from Sydney to Melbourne

Sydney to Melbourne Railway Route

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• Trains: NSW TrainLink regional express trains.
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Book Train Tickets from Sydney to Melbourne

Sydney to melbourne train details, departing from.

Sydney Central Railway Station

Railway Colonnade Dr, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia

Arriving at

Address: Spencer Street, Melbourne, Victoria Australia, Australia

FAQ: What to Know About Sydney - Melbourne Train

ARE TRAINS RUNNING BETWEEN SYDNEY AND MELBOURNE?

There are two Sydney to Melbourne trains daily, a day train and an overnight one.

​HOW LONG IS THE TRAIN JOURNEY FROM SYDNEY TO MELBOURNE?

The NSW TrainLink regional express train will get you to your destination in less than 12 hours. The night train provides 11-hour connection.

HOW FAR IS SYDNEY FROM MELBOURNE?

There are 866 kilometers (538 miles) between Sydney and Melbourne..

Discover More Destinations in Australia

Melbourne to sydney train, newcastle to sydney train, sydney to brisbane train.

Driving Sydney to Melbourne: Coast & Inland Guide

Considering making the drive from Sydney to Melbourne? Wondering if you should take the coast road to Melbourne or the faster inland route? Today we answer all your questions about driving between Australia’s two biggest cities. Whether you are looking for the fastest or the most scenic from Sydney to Melbourne, we have you covered. Of course, turn the page upside down, and you have a Melbourne to Sydney itinerary ready to go 😉

Easy to follow itineraries for a Sydney to Melbourne drive

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In peak season, when airline prices surge many people from Sydney drive to Melbourne and most discover it would make a pretty good multi stop road trip when they do. Whether you need a fast a-b route or you have time to meander along the way we have plenty of suggestions below along with detailed tables of travel distances and average times.

There are two major routes for a Sydney to Melbourne road trip:

• The Coast Road via the A1, also known as the Princes Highway and the famous Grand Pacific Drive
• The inland route via the M31, the Hume Highway.

Today we will answer the most common questions we have received in our Facebook Group to help you decide which route is best for you.

Frequently asked questions about driving from Sydney to Melbourne

How do you determine best? Is the best the fastest, most scenic, easiest drive? Only you can decide that, but we can help by showing you what you can see, do and eat on the road between these two capital cities to help you make your choice.

Along the coast road, the distance between Sydney and Melbourne is 1030kms or about 640 miles. Along the inland road, it is 880km or 550 miles.

You can do the drive in a day if you leave early and don’t mind the long drive. We think it’s best to have two drivers if you want to do a non-stop trip. The fastest route along the inland road with only a stop or two for coffee takes 10 hours.

You need to leave Sydney by 6am to make good time and not get stuck in peak hour traffic. We do not recommend trying to do the coastal route to Melbourne in one day.

The coastal route is infinitely more scenic; it takes an average of 13 hours. I would not recommend you attempt this in less than 2 days. Three or more is preferable. In the summer holiday season and on long weekends, the first section from Sydney to Jervis Bay can take an hour longer.

Can you, yes, the inland road can be covered in one long day. Should you do this drive in one day? No, not unless you start early and stop and rest at least two or three times or have two drivers.

You can do the inland road in one day – especially if you have two drivers. The coast road requires an overnight stop. Ideally, allow two days for the inland road and three days or more for the coast road.

Sure is, if you have enough time to stop and smell the roses. This road trip is worth devoting a week to there being so much beautiful landscape, gorgeous beaches and cute little towns to visit. If you are in a hurry, a one hour flight is often a better option than the nine-hour inland drive.

Where do you stop when driving from Sydney to Melbourne? Well, we have come up with two different itineraries and have listed suggested brief breaks and overnight stops and even a couple of detours en route.

Sydney to Melbourne drive via the coast road in 2-5 days

This Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive itinerary is a superb choice for nature lovers, with stunning national parks and plenty of chances to see Aussie animals in the wild. The road follows the coast at least half of the way as you head south. It goes inland for short periods, but it is still very scenic.

The trip is best enjoyed over 4-5 days, although you could do it in 3 at a push or easily spread it over a week or longer to make the most of the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. We do not recommend doing this if you only have two days.

Key highlights on the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne

• Sea Cliff Bridge
• Kiama and its famous Blow Hole
• Jervis Bay and its white-sand beaches
• Mollymook and Milton
• Marramarang
• Ben Boyd National Park
• Lakes Entrance

Stopping at Ulladulla, Murramarang, Eden, Lakes Entrance, La Trobe Valley, Raymond Island and Wilson’s Promontory. Choose the number of stops based on the time you have. With only two days, do not attempt Wilson’s Promontory. You need a 4-5 day trip for this.

This itinerary is a bit stop and start at the beginning, but these stops are short and very picturesque. Your camera will get a good workout.

To help us out creating this epic post, we asked a bunch of our travel writing friends to give us their favourite stops along the way , and we have included these below. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going.

Head out of Sydney and into the Royal National Park . If you are taking a week to make this trip, consider stopping off at Wattamolla for a swim. Next, follow the Grand Pacific Drive signs, which will lead you to Bald Hill lookout at Stanwell Tops. This is a popular hang gliding spot and a great place to get some photos of the coast and the famous bridge in the distance.

Just after Stanwell Tops, you will come to the Seacliff Bridge. The bridge is a result of regular rock falls damaging cars and causing road closures. There is a safe viewing area on the southern side of the bridge. Please wait until you reach this point to stop the car for photos.

Kiama makes a pleasant detour off the highway for a morning coffee. There is also the famous blowhole and lighthouse to discover. Photographers should check out Cathedral Rocks , especially if you arrive in the early morning light.

Stay on the coast road as far as Gerroa, so you can see Gerringong and the fabulous Sir Charles Kingsford Smith Lookout over Seven Mile Beach. We are regular visitors to this pretty seaside town and have shared our favourite things to do in Kiama here .

If you want to stop for the night in Kiama, it’s probably wise to book some accommodation before you arrive as it’s a popular town, particularly on weekends and holidays.

The next major stop along the highway is Jervis Bay. We are partial to this part of the coast; it’s relatively undiscovered by international travellers, a bit of a secret spot that locals want to keep to themselves. The beaches and accommodation are bustling during the school holidays, but you can find them relatively deserted at other times of the year. Check out our detailed guide to the area if you have time to stop off for a bit.

Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too have shared why they think you should make a stop in Ulladulla.

Where is it ? Just 3 hours 30 minutes from Sydney or 223.5 km is the coastal town of Ulladulla.

Why stop here ? Ulladulla is an Aboriginal name meaning ‘safe harbour’. It has been an important fishing port since 1857. The town is well-known for its restaurants and bars offering the best of its local cuisine and seafood.

Tip: One of our favourite restaurants for Brunch is Native , with views over the pretty harbour. It also has the best coffee in town.

One of the interesting things to do is to take a local walk around Warden Head Reserve. It is an easy bushwalk and is suitable for all levels of fitness. The lookouts scattered along the walkway offer breathtaking views out to the Pacific Ocean where you may witness the seasonal migration of whales and enjoy dolphin watching.

There is the aboriginal cultural walk known as the Coome Nujunga track where while you wander down the bush track you can enjoy local aboriginal paintings painted on tree branches and scenic views.

Tip: Free parking is available at the lighthouse which was built in 1873 and is one of two lighthouses in NSW that is made from wrought iron.

Short stay or longer visit ? We would recommend staying overnight and enjoying many of the local cafes and a wander around the Harbour foreshore.

An alternate overnight stop is just a short drive away at Murramarang.

Josh Shephard, who blogs at The Lost Passport shares one of our favourite spots along this route, Murramarang.

Where is it? Murramarang National Park is located mid-way down the NSW South Coast, about 20 kilometres north of Batemans Bay, and 270 kilometres south of Sydney.

Why stop here? The area is scattered with beautiful small beaches to explore; Myrtle Beach, Cookies Beach, Deport Beach, Pebbly Beach, and Pretty Beach, among others. It’s an excellent place for swimming, fishing, or just lazing back on the beach in the summer. Some of these beaches are accessible by car, others only by walking track.

There are also walking tracks to locations other than beaches, such as the mangrove walk, the Durras Lake Trail, and the Depot Beach Rainforest Walk . One of the most impressive sights is waking up in the early morning to see a mob of kangaroos feeding on the grass right by the beach. You couldn’t find a spot which sums up travelling Australia any better!

A short visit or overnight? If you’re looking to stay somewhere a little secluded, then Murramarang is the perfect spot to stay a night on your way down the coast from Sydney to Melbourne. The Murramarang Holiday Park, surrounded by the national park, offers cabins and powered campsites right by the beach.

Tip: For those wanting to rough it, bush camping is also available at a few campsites in the national park itself, try the Pebbly Beach, Pretty Beach or Depot Beach campgrounds.

Wherever you decide to stay, Murramarung National Park should be on your list! Now we head into the Sapphire Coast and with a name like that you know it’s going to be very pretty

The South Coast of NSW is dairy country, as you may have already noted from the number of cows you have probably passed along the way. If you are partial to a bit of cheese, consider stopping in at the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre, which has a small cafe and shop. Sadly you can no longer tour the cheese factory but supporting the area by stopping in a never a bad idea.

Jan Wild from Retiring not Shy! explains why a stop at Eden is always a good idea.

Where is it? Once you arrive on the far South Coast of NSW, you are entering Australia’s Coastal Wilderness. The last town on the East Coast of NSW is Eden, settled on the hillside overlooking the ocean and a beautiful harbour.

Why stop here? Eden is a great place to break your journey, and a terrific choice is Sprout Café in the main street – also a good spot to pick up some local preserves and other produce. Enjoy coffee and cake or a delicious lunch.

Historically, Eden was a whaling town, and besides the beaches and natural history, the top tourist attraction is the Eden Killer Whale Museum , which is well worth a visit.

After visiting the Museum, continue on down the road to the wharves. If you have the capacity to keep some food cold, you might like to see if the boats are in and selling mussels off their decks. I guarantee these will be the most delicious mussels you will ever eat.

Tip: Just up the hill from the wharves is the Eden Smokehouse, the award-winning purveyor of smoked seafood, including those delicious mussels in several different flavours.

If the smokehouse is closed, the fish shop at the wharf also carries their produce.

A short visit or overnight? This is a great spot to break your journey if you have not done so already. If you are on a longer visit, then I would happily stay a while. Eden itself doesn’t offer many exciting overnight options, but just south of Eden at beautiful Twofold Bay, you will find the boutique SeaHorse Inn . This is a lovely spot for an overnight stay (or longer) and a good meal in the brasserie or their a la carte restaurant.

An alternate overnight stop is less than 30 minutes away.

Jan Wild from Retiring not shy has also shared her love of Mallacoota

Where is it ? Leaving NSW and entering Victoria, the first settlement you will come to is Genoa. There are not a lot of facilities here, certainly no petrol or shops, just a pub. There is, however, a very popular free camping spot . But your best option is to turn left towards the township of Mallacoota. You will then enjoy 23km of narrow winding road, so sit back and breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty. Around halfway in there is a turn to the left to Gipsy Point. This is another beautiful spot, but again there are no shops or fuel available here. But keep driving to Mallacoota, a town of just 1,000 people year round that swells to 8,000 to 10,000 in the summer.

Why visit ? Mallacoota sits on the beautiful Mallacoota Inlet, and getting out on the water here is a truly delightful experience. Pop into the visitor information centre for advice on your options.

Mallacoota is blessed not just with the lake system but also with beautiful beaches, visit the Main Beach at Bastion Point but also take a drive out to walk on Betka Beach, Quarry Beach or Secret Beach. At many times in the year, you might just find that you are the only person on the beach.

An overnight stay or a longer visit ? Mallacoota is definitely worth an overnight stay if you enjoy the natural environment. There is less accommodation in Mallacoota than some of the other stops so sort this out before you decide. For breakfast, or lunch, try Croajingolong Café where Michelle serves the most innovative food in town as well as coffee, teas, smoothies etc. and of course, cakes. If you are taking a road trip around Australia, then check out Jan’s tips on organising your caravan .

Tina from Hangry by Nature , highlights an area we hope to spend more time in one day soon.

Where is it? A rough 3-hour drive east from Melbourne, Lakes Entrance is the region’s hub; home to breathtaking lakes, golden sand beaches, quaint little towns and breathtaking nature trails. 

Why stop here? Ocean, lakes and forests – Gippsland has got them all. Regardless of what type of holiday-goer you are, a trip to this stunning corner in Victoria when taking the coastal route from Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) will tick all the boxes.

Ninety Mile Beach is a must, and as the name implies, it’s a 90-mile long stretch of soft sand that separates Gippsland Lakes from the Bass Strait. The area is popular amongst families and outdoor lovers who come here to enjoy water sports, rent houseboats or simply bask in the beautiful nature that surrounds them.

Tip: Hop on a ferry and explore Gippsland Lakes

You can hike to the top of gorgeous waterfalls, go mountain biking on one of the countless scenic trails, or even descend into the Buchan Caves and gape at the hundreds of stalactites that line the ceiling of this age-old cave. A short visit or overnight ? The activities and natural sights to be found in this region are endless – I would recommend spending, at the very least, a couple of full days uncovering the beauty.

Our friend Mark who hails from Gippsland and runs a site Travels in Gippsland recommends a quick break to visit Raymond Island.

Where is it ? Raymond Island is best accessed from Bairnsdale off the Princes Highway. Follow the signs to Paynesville. You reach the island via a free 5-minute ferry ride from Paynesville across to the island. You can take your car or board as a foot passenger.

Why visit ? The sheer excitement when you spot your first Koala in the wild at Raymond Island is amazing. There they are just sitting in the tree sleeping or eating, not a fence around them, not a zookeeper in sight.

This is the experience that awaits you at Raymond Island Koala walk-in Gippsland. The Raymond Island Koala walk is one of the most popular attractions in Gippsland, and it’s free! The Koala walk is signposted, and you can also pick up a small guidebook for a gold coin donation. We recommend grabbing some food in Paynesville, catching the ferry, having some lunch in the park on the foreshore and then doing some Koala Hunting. The clearly marked trail is 1.3 km long. The Koalas can be hard to find as their fur mixes in with the colour of the gum trees.

Bec from Wyld Family Travel is keen for you to make a stop in the beautiful La Trobe Valley.

Where is it ? The Latrobe Valley  is located 150 kilometres east of Melbourne. It comprises the largest towns in Gippsland; Traralgon, Moe and Morwell. These are the key places in the region that attract visitors. Why visit ? For those looking for some retail therapy, Traralgon is the place, with a large retail precinct dominated by the Stockland Shopping Centre. For those wanting to stretch their legs, Victory Park is on the Princes Highway while the popular Gippsland Rail Trail bike path starts in Traralgon. A short 10 kilometres away along the highway is Morwell. In Morwell, you will find Lake Kernot home of the Gippsland Immigration Museum. The story of immigration to the Latrobe Valley is told as you walk around the lake. In Moe, Old Gippstown has been a favourite of the region for decades. This historic park brings the history of the area to life with twenty-seven original relocated buildings dating from the 1840s through to the 1930s, including a Cobb and Co Inn. You will also find an extensive collection of farm machinery, trucks and cars from all over Gippsland on display. A short visit or overnight? It depends on the time you have available and your interests. There is a bit of everything for everyone in the Latrobe Valley, but even a short visit is well rewarded.

So from here, you have an easy 150km drive into Melbourne city.

Have more time to spare? A detour to the Prom is always a good idea.

If you have time, a couple of days in Wilsons Promontory is time well spent. If you can manage an extended visit, Neil has a rundown on the best walks in the area.

Overnight stops are marked with a star; squares are suggested rest stops or detours.

Two days from Sydney to Melbourne via the inland route

Highlights on the Inland drive between Sydney and Melbourne

• Mary Poppins Statue in Bowral
• Don Bradman Museum also in Bowral
• Canberra – detour
• Dog on the Tuckerbox
• Glenrowan – Home of Ned Kelly

Suggested stops – Bowral, Goulburn, Canberra, Gundagai, Wagga Wagga, Beechworth, Glenrowan.

Travel writer Christina Pfeiffer from Travel2next suggests your first stop out of Sydney should be in Goulburn.

The 15.2m high Big Merino marks the turnoff to Goulburn along the Hume Highway. The giant sheep is a symbol of Goulburn’s agricultural past and the city’s prominence as a significant centre for Merino wool growing.

Where is it? Goulburn is in the Southern Tablelands, 195 kilometres southwest from Sydney and 90km from Canberra. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney and a perfect place for a break when travelling along the Hume Highway to Melbourne.

Why stop here? As Australia’s first inland city, Goulburn has a rich history dating back to 1885, with many Victorian Italianate, Art déco and Edwardian-style buildings. Highlights include the Goulburn Courthouse, the Post Office, designed by well-known Colonial architect James Barnet, and two majestic churches with lovely stained-glass windows. St Saviour’s Anglican Cathedral is home to an 1884 Fosters & Andrew’s organ and an attraction not to be missed is the 1883 Appleby beam engine, which is housed in the Goulburn Historic Waterworks Museum by the banks of the Wollondilly River.

A short visit or overnight? It’s possible to explore a few of the main sights in two to three hours, but if you’re keen on Australian history, an overnight stay will allow more time to explore.

Tips? The Big Merino is not just for show. The gift shop inside the giant ram is an excellent place to shop for pure Merino clothing and other quality Australian souvenirs.

There are electric car charging stations at the Goulburn Visitor Information Centre at 201 Sloan Street.

If you are not on a time limit a detour via Canberra for a night is a great idea. Australia’s capital city is home to plenty of attractions, and most of them are free to visit. Highlights include Parliament House , The Australian War Memorial and The National Museum of Australia . Canberra is 2.5 hours from Sydney and 6.5 hours from Melbourne.

Related: Check out our recent road trip to Canberra for ideas

You can also take a trip to Gibraltar Falls from Canberra if you decide to stop in Canberra for a while.

Alivio Tourist Park Canberra is a great overnight stop if you need one.

Where is it? Along the road between Canberra and Wagga Wagga. Why stop here? Home to one of the most iconic statues in Australia, The Dog on the Tucker Box.

Luke from Culture Shock Adventure shares some more fantastic Aussie history with us

Where is it? Barellan is 1.5 hours northwest of Wagga Wagga; 2.5 hours north of Albury. It’s a small town with a country pub and a museum of local history run by amateur historians, all at volley distance from the oversized racquet.

Why stop here? If you like tennis and big things, you will have a grand slam in Barellan, west of Wagga Wagga. The “Big Tennis Racquet” is a tribute to Evonne Goolagong Cawley. Despite discriminative policies at the time, the Barellan townspeople let her play, paving the way for the first indigenous Australian to reach world number one in tennis.

The monument is an exact replica of her wooden racquet, except it’s twenty times bigger. It tells the story of an underdog in a time of racial discrimination. Becoming number one, she replaced another Australian, infamous for pro-apartheid views, so her title is extra special.

A short visit or overnight? You only need a few hours in Barellan, but I recommend spending a couple of days in the Riverina region.

Each town in the Riverina has its own charm and specialty:

• There’s Cootamundra, home of cricket legend Don Bradman and the “Captains Walk”;
• Junee’s liquorice factory at Junee holds the world record for the longest piece of liquorice (now eaten, RIP);
• Temora hosts regular vintage warplane air shows.
• Wagga Wagga is home to Wawi, a Dreamtime spirit living in the Wollundry Lagoon; the excellent Thirsty Crow brewery; and the famous Chiko Roll.

With lots of local legends, great tastes and cool tales, it’s definitely worth the backspin through Barellan and the Riverina region.

Ok, so we are now leaving New South Wales and heading into Victoria.

Why stop here: History lovers will enjoy a stop at Glenrowan to learn more about Ned Kellys final siege. The visitor’s centre is home to Ned Kelly’s Last Stand, a 40-minute show featuring computerised robots that is not quite high tech, but it is interesting and breaks up the drive.

Audrey, who runs the website See Geelong , highlights why Beechworth is a worthy stop.

We visited Beechworth on a weekend getaway from our hometown  Geelong . But it makes an excellent stopover for those on a road trip travelling the Hume Hwy between Melbourne and Sydney.

Where is it ? Nestled in the Victorian High Country, Beechworth is a fascinating town steeped in Australian history.

Why stop here? In Beechworth, you’ll find wide tree-lined boulevards, shady century-old verandah-covered footpaths, and gorgeous historic buildings.

This is “Kelly Country” making Beechworth the perfect stop for anyone interested in Australian history and folklore. Travellers can visit the courthouse where Australia’s infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his mother were tried. Or take a tour of the gaol where Ned, his mother, and Kelly sympathisers were imprisoned. Other interesting buildings include the 1850s Telegraph Station, the Chinese Burning Towers, and the “Lunatic Asylum” (Yep, that’s what it’s called) that will send chills down your spine.

A short visit or overnight? Gorgeous national parks surround the town with bush-covered ranges, magical waterfalls, rivers and streams, and tranquil rural farmlands. There are loads of opportunities to explore the tracks and back roads either on a guided tour or through independent exploration. We recommend staying for a night or two to explore the whole area fully. Tip : Whether you stay overnight or not, you cannot pass through without stopping for a pie and cake at the famous Beechworth Bakery . Known throughout the state, this delightful bakery has an old-world charm, traditional recipes, and country hospitality. Treat yourself to the best vanilla slice ever! 

Now you are on the home stretch to Melbourne where all the excitement of Australia’s second-biggest city awaits.

Driving Safety tips

Fatigue – Fatigue is one of the biggest killers of drivers on outback roads. Don’t underestimate how tiring driving long distances can be. Particularly if you are driving on the opposite side of the road that you are used to. In busy periods, Driver Reviver areas, which provide free coffee and snacks, are set up along both routes. Check this map for the best places to pull over and rest. Speed – Speed cameras and radars are set up along these routes are the spots where the speed you are driving is likely to get away from you. Be extra careful during holiday periods where fines and demerit points are doubled. Wildlife – Driving at dusk and dawn brings its own dangers. Kangaroos often run into the traffic at these times of the day. Also, be extra vigilant in areas known for kangaroos, on these drives anywhere south of Ulladulla along the coast route or Canberra on the inland road. If one runs in your path slow down but don’t swerve, while the roo can do serious damage to your car, moving to the wrong side of the road can do much more.

• Check out our guide to driving the Pacific Coast Road from Sydney to Brisbane
• Or for a shorter trip, perhaps a drive to the Blue Mountains

First published 1/12/2020 Updated 12/3/23

3 thoughts on “Driving Sydney to Melbourne: Coast & Inland Guide”

Your coastal drive map is wrong – it is the inland map. We have done Melbourne to Sydney along the coast and reading this has reminded me of some of the things we did. Thank you.

Thanks Lyn – the map shows both routes, you just need to click on the top left of the map and you can switch the views. Sorry for the confusion.

I’ve driven the Great Ocean Road a long, long time ago but would love to do more. Hopefully one day to Melbourne to Sydney too!

Comments are closed.

6 of the best Australian cities to visit and when to go

T he great, southern land of Australia has long seduced tourists from all over the world, conjuring dreams of sun-drenched cities and long golden coastlines. The mere mention of Oz can spark envy for many, especially those living in places with less-than-pleasant weather.

This vast country has a wealth of fantastic places to visit, with a geographical, cultural and historical variety befitting its enormous size. Sydney and its world-famous landmarks remain the postcard image of the country, but cities like Melbourne are gaining ground with a slew of cultural offerings, picture-perfect beaches and characterful neighbourhoods.

Slightly less common with visitors looking for a city break are Cairns, Adelaide and Perth, though they continue to welcome more and more tourists, who come to experience verdant wine country, sporting events and cultural festivals, along with the wonders of Australia’s nature, from the enormous Outback to the striking Great Barrier Reef.

If you’re planning a trip to this part of the Southern Hemisphere, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of the best cities to visit Down Under, and the best time of year to travel to them.

Sydney typifies the laid-back nature of Australia, from the busy sands of Bondi Beach to the serene waters of the harbour. These locations, together with the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, are what many outside of Australia will picture when they think of the country, and a ferry tour around the area is a great way to see as much as possible (one of the more popular routes is from Circular Quay to Manly).

The city’s main neighbourhoods, including popular spots like Surrey Hills, the Rocks, Woolloomooloo and Newtown, also carry that easy-going, friendly Aussie energy as well as various attractions worth a visit, such as the Art Gallery of NSW, the Royal Botanic Garden and the Australian Museum. For a spot of quieter relaxation, leave Bondi behind and check out the beaches of Manly, Bronte or Balmoral.

When to visit

Sydney’s high season falls between December and February, combining warm beach days with sporting events and plenty of celebrations (including Christmas and New Year’s Eve). March to May is the city’s autumn period, where temperatures remain high but manageable enough to explore in comfort – think average highs between 23C and 26C. There are plenty of important occasions that would may want to coincide your visit with, such as Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Read more on Australia travel :

• The best Australia holidays to do in your lifetime
• Why you should book a holiday to Ningaloo, Australia’s ‘other reef’
• The best deals for a luxury Australia holiday in 2024

Often referred to as the country’s capital of culture, Melbourne is a place where you can find highlights around every corner, from street art to hipster restaurants worth queuing for. There’s an abundance ways to fill your time during a city break, from wandering the magnificent National Gallery to catching some tennis at the Australian Open.

Heavily influenced by Europe, today Melbourne is a city whose multicultural nature is visibly reflected in its architecture, from the skyscrapers of the Central Business District to historic structures like Flinders Street Station and a slew of Victorian buildings. Its streets hide a plethora of nightlife spots, and it has a beachside hang-out in the shape of St Kilda.

Summer in Melbourne begins around the same time as in Sydney, making January and February the warmest months – temperatures can easily exceed 30C, though average highs are around 27C. For something more manageable, visit in the summer shoulder season, in March or April, to experience balmy temperatures and less crowds (as well as a slew of events, like the Melbourne Grand Prix and the International Comedy Festival).

The main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the beaches of Far North Queensland, Cairns is a city that continues to grow in popularity as tourists seek out its tropical weather and unforgettable natural sites.

Top attractions include the Botanic Gardens, Esplanade and Boardwalk, with lovely suburban areas including Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Atherton Tablelands. Nevertheless, the Barrier Reef is the undeniable star of the area, with dozens of tours available for snorkelling and scuba diving across coral gardens with turtles and a host of tropical fish.

While the reef steals the headlines, Cairns and the surrounding area are home to other natural landmarks such as the Wet Tropics rainforest or Cape Tribulation, where trees give way meets coral reefs. There are plenty of great beaches, too, including Trinity, Ellis, Clifton and the Thala Beach Nature Reserve – there’s a reason why the city has labelled itself the “Jewel of the North”.

For those wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef, avoid visiting between October and May if you want to stay out of stinger season (though companies provide you with necessary equipment if you do want to dive during these months). Winter is the best time to come; June to August is in the middle of dry season and still offers highs around 26C. Peak season runs from around May until late September.

Originally occupied by the Kaurna people, Adelaide has a colourful history that remains little-known by visitors who choose Sydney or Melbourne. Spread out along the banks of the Torrens River, this picturesque, easy-going hub is smaller but still contains a wealth of things to do, as well as acting as the gateway to the wine regions of Barrossa Valley and, further north, Uluru (Ayers Rock).

The city streets are characterised by their Victorian architecture and stone buildings, with heritage buildings and botanic gardens around North Terrace that are particularly charming. Cafe culture and al fresco dining is best sampled in Gouger Street, Moonta Street or Rundle Street, and cultural highlights include the South Australian Museum and the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the second largest in the world after Edinburgh’s. For a foray into nature, visit the Morialta Conservation Park, or swim with dolphins in the suburb of Glenelg.

Like much of the rest of the country, Adelaide welcomes its warmest weather in January and February, with average temperatures sitting at a pleasant 24C. Unlike some other cities, summer highs aren’t sweltering, and a range of events – from the Adelaide Fringe to international cricket – can be enjoyed alongside days on the beach.

Brisbane is a popular destination year-round, with perhaps the best weather at all times in the country, and a place where the golden sand of the inner-city beaches sit in front of towering skyscrapers. The Brisbane River snakes across the city on its way to the coast, its banks home to the surprisingly large central business district, the buildings of which have come to define the city skyline.

The river separates the city into a series of neighbourhoods, such as the family-friendly South Bank, the trendy New Farm or Fortitude Valley, home to the best nightlife. Brisbane is home to the Queensland Cultural Centre and the Queensland Art Gallery, and will presumably receive plenty of attention as it gears up to host the Olympics in 2032.

For some nature lovers, kayaking along the river or relaxing on Streets Beach may suffice, though for those who want to venture out of the city there are options to explore Mooreton Bay, Mount Coot-Tha or the Glasshouse Mountains.

Sub-tropical Brisbane rarely enters single-digit temperatures even in its winter. This does mean that temperatures in summer can be sweltering – sometimes rising into the 40s – so high season here is actually in the autumn and winter, between May and September. Daytime temperatures will peak around 26C, but evenings are cooler at around 12C. This period is also when the majority of the city’s main festivals and events are held.

Perth is one of the most isolated cities on Earth, and it doesn’t attract the same number of visitors as Sydney or Melbourne. This, combined with a smaller population, means a city far less crowded than others in Australia, giving it a pleasant air of calm.

The city’s location on the edge of the Indian Ocean blesses it with a host of beautiful beaches, with sweeping stretches of untouched gold sands at Cottesloe, Swanbourne and Mettams Pool. For nature in the city, the Blackwall Reach Reserve, on the Swan River, is home to wild dolphins, and the 1,000-acre Kings Park is the best place to walk, picnic or enjoy sunset views over the city.

Popular areas for exploring, dining and discovering the arts include the recently renovated Cathedral Square, Elizabeth Quay and the cross-river port city of Fremantle. Cultural and historical highlights include the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and Fremantle Prison, while wine tourism is also popular due to the city’s location between the Swan Valley and Margaret River vineyards.

Summer in Perth is very warm, with average highs around 30C, and plenty of people – Aussies and international visitors alike – head west in January and February. This is the best time for going to the beach, whether surfing, snorkelling or lounging, and for attending cultural events, but with the small possibility of days in the 40s, some may prefer to visit in the spring shoulder season of September to November.

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Road trip Melbourne to Alice Springs - Australia Forum

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After the dive trip, we’d fly to Melbourne for 2-3 nights, then rent a car to drive to Alice Springs . Just wondering if the following itinerary is ‘doable’ (we aren’t hikers so no hiking planned):

Melbourne- Adelaide via Ocean Rd:

2 Overnights: Mt Gambier & Adelaide

Adelaide-Coober Pedy- (1 night) (I know it’s @9 hrs)

Coober Pedy- Uluru (2 nights Uluru) (drive @8 hrs?)

Uluru-Kings Canyon (1 night)

Kings Canyon-Alice Springs (2 nights)

Drop the car off in Alice Springs and fly to Sydney

Does it matter whether one travels in this direction or is it better to start in Alice Springs (flying there from Sydney) & end in Melbourne?

Thanks for any suggestions!

26 replies to this topic

Aahhhhh Laksa- your advice is so needed on this forum where it seems most regulars just dont understand what active tourism involves.

Eg we've just spent 2weeks in Tasmania and did not visit one winery, lavender farm or cheese factory or indeed MONA or a market. Just hiking and relaxing in wilderness locations.

It seems to me the OP is like minded and of similar vintage also..

The OP said they are not hikers so no hikes planned.

A suggestion - drive Melbourne to Adelaide then on to Flinders Ranges. I like the scenery of that area without even doing much walking. Just soaking up the surrounding areas. So no Uluru.

Or fly Cairns to Adelaide and explore SA a bit to include Flinders Ranges.

Ooh missed the non hiking- sorry.

Yes Jean, definitely you can still take a day trip to West Macs and enjoy that drive- its lovely. Standley, Ellery and Ormiston are lovely stops where you can hike or just sit and enjoy the view. Standley and Ormiston have kiosk / cafe so a nice place to have lunch or morning tea.

Alice itself has Telegraph Station and some quirky small museums.

Divetravel, what are you hoping to achieve on this trip? Natural scenery, native animals or indigenous culture? Or are you looking for more dives after GBR? Is Mt Gambier there for the sinkhole diving?

With more information about what you want to see and do, the better help you will get.

My husband has neuropathy in his feet- thus the no hiking…but short walks (1-1.5 miles) are ok.

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