4x4 day trips melbourne

23 Best Beginner 4WD Tracks in Victoria: Easy to Moderate Treks

Victoria has some of the best beginner 4WD tracks in Australia. If you have a 4×4, you’ll be spoiled for choice between the amazing offroad tracks in Victoria. But what are the best 4WD tracks for beginners? 

Bunyip State Park, Lerdererg State Park and Mount Disappointment have some of the best beginner tracks in Victoria. You can find excellent beginner offroad tracks across Victoria, from Wyperfeld National Park to Marysville. 

In this article, we will explore the 23 great 4WD tracks to try in Victoria, including some within easy driving distance of Melbourne. If you’re just starting out on your 4×4 hobby, this is a great bucket list of must-try tracks, including some to tackle once you have a few treks under your belt. 

Read on to discover our top off-road track recommendations!

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Can I Go 4WD in Victoria?

Yes, Victoria is an amazing place for 4WDing, ranging from easy to difficult tracks, solo driving or travelling with friends or family, this place is perfect for everyone who wants to explore new and less travelled destinations. From national parks to sand dunes, there’s something for every 4×4 lover in Victoria. 

You can visit the state and national parks supervised by Parks Victoria or you can opt to traverse the vast network of tracks in state forests. You can also go for either short day trips or long 4WD camping trip exploring around mountains, rainforests, deserts and more. 

To turn your 4WD trek into an overnight stay or holiday, you’ll also find many of Victoria’s best caravan parks close to these 4WD locations. 

What Are The Best Beginner 4WD Tracks in Victoria? 

There are many tracks that you can explore and discover around Victoria. Depending on your 4WD experience and expertise, you can choose the track difficulty that suits you. It also offers a wide selection of scenery, such as mountains, forests, and beach scenes.

For beginners, there are 23 4WD tracks that should make your 4WD bucket list. Note that some of these tracks shouldn’t be tackled alone for beginners, and difficulty can vary depending on the weather conditions. 

Always make sure you have the right 4WD safety gear and your vehicle is equipped to tackle the track’s unique challenges. 

Discover our must-try list of Victorian 4WD tracks below, including their distance from Melbourne:

1. James Barrett Nature Drive, Wyperfeld National Park

Distance from Melbourne: 450km 

James Barrett Nature Drive is one of Victoria’s best 4WD tracks for beginners, and it’s next to Lake Brimin. The 15-km track is mostly gravel, which makes it a little challenging to drive through. The track passes through dry lake beds, flood plains, sand dunes and typical mallee country. 

2. Rockey Track, Toolangi State Forest 

Distance from Melbourne: 80km

Despite stretching only 2.4km, the track is home to a number of mud and hill challenges. It is connected to the Marginal Track, another track within the Toolangi State Forest that is worth trying. If you’re not yet up for the challenge of Rockey Track, Toolangi State Forest has a few less rugged tracks, like Martins Track. 

3. Border Track, Sunset National Park

Distance from Melbourne: 537 km

Border Track does have some challenging terrain. Therefore, it is advisable to traverse the road in convoy. Beginners in 4WD who are up for a little bit of challenge can easily survive this track with flying colours.

4. Horans Track, Tallarook

Distance from Melbourne: 98km

5. The Ladder, Mount Disappointment

Distance from Melbourne: 83km 

In terms of difficulty, Mount Disappointment is an easy to medium track, but during wet seasons, it is more difficult. Challenging tracks are located further north at Tallarook. 

Mount Disappointment is a massive area, which is why navigation is so important. If you plan to head out to Mount Disappointment, you’ll need more than just Google Maps. A high-quality map app is going to ensure that once you’ve finished your Mount Disappointment trek, you’ll be able to find your way home. 

6. Woods Point, Victoria 

Distance from Melbourne: 178km

If you don’t mind taking on the track under the searing heat of the sun, the frigid winds of winter, and rocky climbs, descents, and deep ruts, then this track is perfect for you.

7. Little Bunyip Track, Bunyip State Park

8. donnellys creek loop, aberfeldy.

Distance from Melbourne: 167km

The track is graded around a medium to difficult, depending on the capability and performance of the vehicle, so be sure not to make this your first trek. This track is a treat for 4×4 enthusiasts looking to indulge in both nature and history.

9. Strickland Spur Track, Marysville

Distance from Melbourne: 97km 

Strickland Spur Track will give you a scenic view of lush forests and picturesque waterways. If you prefer something different, enjoy the tracks during snow seasons. Marysville is perfect for car-based snow fun because of its 1400 metre elevation.

10. Lake Eildon National Park, Victoria 

Distance from Melbourne: 235km

11. Gentle Annie Track, Bunyip State Park

Distance from Melbourne: 98km 

Gentle Annie Track has a difficulty level of moderate during dry seasons and hard during wet seasons. The challenge comes from its terrain composed of gravel, mud, dirt, clay and rocks. Rivers are also located near the trails. Smaller 4WD models are better to use along this track.

12. Lyrebird Track, Warburton

Distance from Melbourne: 75km

13. Wombat Forest Drive, Wombat State Forest 

Distance from Melbourne: 82km

There are many tracks to explore in Wombat, and along the Lerderderg River lies the pleasant dirt road of the Wombat Forest Drive. The track showcases an amazing view of gorges, green forests and waterways. You can enjoy a challenging 4WD adventure on its steep and muddy terrain with plenty of water crossings. 

Walking and exploring the towns along the way will take one full day to finish this track. You can expect a crowded track during weekends and a much quieter one during midweeks.

14. Croajingolong National Park 

Distance from Melbourne: 428km

15. Eastern Lookout Nature Drive, Wyperfeld National Park

Distance from Melbourne: 436km

What makes travelling in the Easter Lookout Nature Drive very rewarding is its amazing panoramic view of green forests and mountains. In this easy loop drive, you will pass through flood plains, dry lake beds and sand dunes, as well as the peaceful Mallee country. If you want to see the wildlife, it’s better to take a look in the evening and morning. 

16. Alpine National Park 

Distance from Melbourne: 401km

The plethora of tracks found within the park ensures that offroaders of every skill level can enjoy their visit. However, keep in mind that the tracks vastly differ in length, so make sure you check the map and fill up the tank before you hit the tracks.

17. Ratcliffe’s Track, Lerderderg State Park

Distance from Melbourne: 74km

The Lerderderg State Park is very popular among bushwalkers, campers, rock-climbers and off-road tourers. With the rugged terrains, scenic gorges and water crossings, this is a great place for off-roading. You can drive right through the park via Ratcliffe’s Track on O’Brien’s Road.

Despite its 10-kilometre long steep and rutted track, Ratcliffe Track is quite easy to traverse for beginner 4WDers. However, don’t risk yourself on this track after heavy rain. 

18. Grampians National Park 

Distance from Melbourne: 258km 

The tracks you can challenge are segmented into portions; the Halls Gap to Buandik (60kms), Buandik to Dunkeld (136kms), and Dunkeld to Halls Gap (90kms). With roughly 286km total length, there’s something to see for everybody, and something to challenge for the hardcore off roaders.

19. Anderson Track, Bunyip State Park

Another beginner 4WD track in Victoria is the Anderson Track along the Bunyip State Park. In addition to the diverse ecosystem you’ll see here, this state park is a fantastic place for off-roaders with its sticky orange clay and deep black mud. It’s a favourite place for a day or long weekend trips among locals.

The best time to visit the Anderson Track is during the middle of June up to November.

20. Craig’s Hut, Mansfield Mt. Buller

Distance from Melbourne: 250km 

Craig’s Hut is the celebrity among all Australian 4WD destinations. Sitting atop Mt. Sterling, it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the region. It is iconic and popular because it is specially built for the film The Man from Snowy River. 

21. Otway Ranges, Great Otway National Park

Distance from Melbourne: 209km 

Otway Ranges in the Great Otway National Park is filled with scenic views of magnificent forests, waterfalls and coastal views. If you go off-roading in this area, you will traverse not only through dirt roads, but you will also get up close with the lush ecosystem, the native wildlife and the fascinating local birds. You can use your standard 4×4 car when the roads are dry. However, when it is rainy, prepare your mud tyres and winch. 

The Otways has more than just great places to go offroading, there are also some amazing beaches. If you don’t want to trek back home after your 4WD expedition, you can follow an Otways beach camping guide to turn your day out into an amazing weekend.

22. Bullock Link Track, Bunyip State Park

Bunyip Link Track is considered medium difficulty, so the track is challenging enough for you to master the use of your 4×4 car’s diff-locker switch. You will need lockers and winches, and do not consider going alone – you might end up bogged or hung up, or both. Especially for those new to 4WDing, this is a track to tackle with help. 

The terrain is covered with both clay, sharp rocks, mud and steep ascents and descents providing plenty of challenges, so avoid tackling it during the wet season. However, the track is closed between mid June and November, so make sure to carefully plan your visit. Because in heavy weather, these tracks can be more difficult, make sure you are packing all of the essential 4WD accessories so your 4×4 experience is a fun and safe one. 

23. Cathedral Ranges, Cathedral State Park, Taggerty

Distance from Melbourne: 115km 

If you’re driving south from the township through the state park, you can consider Taggerty as a base. You can also start from Buxton and pass by Taggerty, Snob Creek Falls, Rubicon Road and Mount Pinniger until you reach Eildon Dam.

Related Questions

Where can you drive on the beach in victoria.

The only place in Victoria where you can drive on the beach is the Portland Coastal Park. The dunes in the area are live, which means that they are constantly moving and shifting. Your vehicle’s tracks will be quickly wiped out with even a light breeze. 

You also won’t have to worry about damaging plant life while driving as there is no vegetation around. Areas with vegetation have vehicle restrictions. 

What Is the Hardest 4WD Track in Victoria?

Voted by the people who have experienced the track, Ellis Track in Wesburn is famous as the most difficult track in Victoria. Its huge boulders, uneven terrains and very deep ruts are the reason for this reputation. 

Can You 4WD at Wilsons Promontory?

Yes, you can 4WD at Wilsons Promontory, especially on roads too steep to walk, but most of the trails are non-accessible by car. Therefore, going into the park through 4WD will not let you experience the beauty of the park in full.

However, Wilsons Promontory National Park is surrounded by many campgrounds packed with campers and wildlife. It is designed for exploration on foot with moderate to difficult walking trails. Make sure you follow a 4WD camping guide to ensure you pack all the essentials and make the most out of your camping experience. 

Disclaimer:

This article is published in good faith and for general informational purposes only. Let’s Get Away does not make any warranties about the ongoing completeness and reliability of this information. Always confirm current local conditions and follow safety guidelines.  

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James Mitchell

Hi, I’m Jimmy Mitchell and I love exploring this great country with my wife and two boys. I have a 2015 Sterling LX that is the Mitchell Family camping machine. Lets Getaway is the website where I share things about my trailer as I learn them, and help other camper owners to enjoy their RV even more.

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THE 10 BEST Melbourne 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

4wd, atv & off-road tours in melbourne.

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1. Dandenong Ranges Private Day Tour

2. 4 Day Great Ocean Road and Beyond - Melbourne to Adelaide

3. Small Group Tour of 2-6pax in Phillip Island & Churchill Island

4. Melbourne by night created for "if busy by day and no time to tour in the day"

5. Fruit Picking & Nature Private Tour Yarra Valley & Warburton

6. Surf Coast and Livewire Tour

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9. Yarra Valley: 7 Hours Guided Wine Tour with 2-Course Lunch

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Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

3 hour Dolphin and Seal Swim (NOV-APR)

Dolphin and Seal Sightseeing Cruise on the Mornington Peninsula

Phillip Island Seal-Watching Cruise

Seal and Dolphin Watching Eco Boat Cruise Mornington Peninsula

Self-Guided Point Nepean National Park Bike Hire

Deluxe Safari Adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

African Cat Experience at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

Half-Day Mornington Peninsula Dolphin and Seal Swim from Sorrento

Peninsula Hot Springs Dine and Bathe

Private Giant Stand Up Paddleboard Ride in Victoria

Kiteboarding Lessons in Kite Republic School

‘Have a Go’ Clay Target Shooting - Victoria (Werribee)

Skydive Yarra Valley 15000ft Tandem Skydive

Clay Target Shooting experience, Private Group, Werribee, Victoria

Hippo Experience at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

Meerkat Experience at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

Werribee Open Range Zoo Early Morning Savannah Experience

Giraffe Experience at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

African Wild Dog Experience at Werribee Open Range Zoo

Ranger Mystery Tour at Werribee Open Range Zoo - excl. entry

What travellers are saying.

• Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk And Morning Tea.
• Full-Day Phillip Island Tour with Kangaroo, Koala and Penguin Parade
• Small-Group Phillip Island Afternoon Day Trip from Melbourne
• Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour
• Melbourne Balloon Flights, The Peaceful Adventure
• Express Tours ANZ
• Nissi Tourist
• Southern Caribou
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Best 4x4 tracks near Melbourne

Break up the day-to-day grind and disappear down some 4x4 tracks close to melbourne.

Need a break from footy chat? There are a bunch of great off-road tracks not too far from Melbourne's CBD.

In fact, Lerderderg State Park is only 70-odd kilometres away from the city and makes for a great afternoon trip. Stretch your legs a big further and the Otways and Grampians NP make for great weekend destinations.

We’ve only listed a handful, so let us know of the ones we’ve missed in the comments section below.

4x4 tracks close to Melbourne

Alpine National Park

Location:  400km northeast of Melbourne This immense 6474km² national park sprawls across central and north-east Victoria.

Location:  200km southwest of Melbourne You’ll find the Otways not much more than an hours' drive from Melbourne, via the world famous Great Ocean Road.

Grampians National Park

Location:  260km west of Melbourne Located a mere three hours’ drive northwest of Melbourne, the Grampians NP has something for any adventurer.

Lerderderg State Park

Location:  70km northwest of Melbourne This 201.8km² state park is popular with off-road tourers, campers, anglers, rock-climbers and bushwalkers.

Little Desert National Park

Location:  340km northwest of Melbourne The 1326km² park has a fantastic mix of sandy desert terrain and huge river red gums beside the Wimmera.

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World’s best 4wd destinations in the victorian high country.

Timothy Blacketer

Tim is an adventure seeker and weekend warrior with a passion for film and fun. From camping trips with his wife to spearfishing, mountain biking and 4WDing, Tim's a lover of all things outdoors and adventure.

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The Victorian High Country holds some of the world’s best 4WD destinations; with breathtaking panoramic views and stunning alpine scenery.

It’s home to steep climbs and descents, plenty of water crossings and thousands of kilometres of tracks that are ever-changing. Six busy-with-work-and-life mates decided to take on a winter 4WD adventure through the alpine regions of the Victorian High Country in search of snow, solitude and good times.

• Driving through a winter wonderland
• 360° panoramic views over the Alpine National Park
• Lunch at 1500m above sea level

Time to Make Time

We all want to get more adventure out of our busy lives. We crave the sense of exploring something new and taking ourself out of our comfort zone. Being a weekend warrior but also a professional, myself and almost everyone else is short on time. We have priorities. Bills to pay, commitments to work, family and friends.

But surely there must be more to it? I say, do yourself a favour and make some time for these adventures. Whatever it may be, you won’t regret it.

Recently I bit the bullet and purchased my first 4WD because I wanted the ability to see some of the more remote and beautiful parts of Australia. Having friends that are avid 4WDers made the decision quite easy. After years of being a passenger on trips with my mates, I decided to treat myself.

So, what happened next? We set a date for a 5-day winter 4WD adventure through the Victorian High Country and we got planning.

The idea of spending almost a week driving and camping in the snow was unsettling at first. Especially as this was my first winter 4WD adventure behind the wheel through some of the harshest terrain in Australia.

A lot of planning and research was done to ensure the safety of everyone and luckily, one of our fellow explorers was a local who had years of experience in the area. We were in good hands.

A few days before we were to leave Sydney , weather reports showed that more than 70cm of snow had fallen in the last few days. This built up our excitement even more!

Distance: 30km

Stocked with plenty of water, food, fuel and excitement we were off toward our first destination, Mt Terrible, sitting at an elevation of 1325m. The anticipation was steadily growing between the convoy as we started to see more and more snow as we climbed in elevation. This was the very first time I’d ever seen snow! To say I was excited would be an understatement, it did not disappoint!

After a few hours slowly making our way through the rain and snow-packed trails of the Alpine National Park, we stumbled across a hut which had shown up on our maps. Time to make some dinner and get some well-deserved shut eye.

Despite being a run down, leaky and rustic hut, it still kept us relatively warm and dry. These huts are scattered throughout the Victorian High Country and most were built over 100 years ago. With the wild mountain weather, it often meant the difference between life and death to those travelling through the area. These iconic huts are considered part of the region’s rich heritage and it was a privilege to experience them.

Distance: 134 km

The next day we drove more than 9 hours to reach Doolan Plains, which sits at an impressive elevation of 1413m! The day had seen multiple recoveries due to ice and slippery conditions but the only thing bruised was our egos. The snow was so deep that some stages took more than an hour to travel 5 kilometres. Most of this time, we were driving through 30cm of snow!

With no hut within a reasonable distance and the light fading, we made camp. This time we were out in the elements. We were completely prepared with the correct equipment rated for sub-zero temperatures, but it was still a shock to the body.

Distance: 109 km

The following morning, we woke to frost-ridden 4WDs and frozen brakes. Yes, that cold!

By midday we had reached the pinnacles Lookout; a 200m hike to the peak of the mountain gave us 360° panoramic views across the Victorian High Country from an elevation of 1500m.

Without doubt, it was one of the best views I have ever seen. After lunch with possibly the best view of the Alpine National Park, we made our way down Billy Goat Bluff; a steep and challenging track that descends 1200m in only 7km. The views were absolutely breathtaking.

The day’s end took us to Dargo, a place iconic for its pub and chicken parmigiana! We spent the night sharing stories, having a few cold ones, eating the best chicken parmy in Australia (in my opinion) and spent the night camping at the back of the pub. A day to remember.

Distance: 73 km

After breakfast and liquid courage to combat the cold (coffee), the day saw the convoy head north towards Cobungra. The winding tracks testing our ability with falling trees, deep muddy snow and icy conditions made for a slow journey. Eventually, we made it to Dog’s Grave, a camping ground paying tribute to the link between drovers and their cattle dog.

For almost a century between the 1840s and 1932, dogs helped drove hundreds of cattle south for the 8-day journey to Dargo. A steep and treacherous voyage along the mountain track relying heavily on the skill of the dog.

We paid our respects and made camp for the night in what can only be described as pure luxury. A recently built hut with a fireplace and no one in sight! It felt like our very own five star hotel.

Nearby Accommodation

Mowamba River Tiny House

Into The Wild Escapes – Tiny Elsie

Distance: 46 km

The next morning felt almost like a Monday morning before work. We knew the time had come to make the long journey home. That morning we all vowed to start planning for the next trip, this time in warmer weather!

On our way out of the Victorian High Country, a few of us made the split decision to finish the weekend snowboarding, but that adventure will have to be told another time!

A Winter 4WD Adventure – The Verdict

Through deserted moody pine forests, snowy mountain fire trails and muddy tracks we only scratched the surface of what the Victorian High Country has to offer.

Would I do it again? Without a doubt! In fact, I’m planning to visit again next year with my wife.

What did I learn from this winter 4WD adventure? Apart from learning how to drive across a multitude of terrains in heavy snow conditions and how to appropriately plan for such a trip, adventure travel feeds the soul and calls for more. No matter what it takes to get to amazing views and sceneries, it becomes addictive.

Each time you explore somewhere different, you find yourself wanting to take on another challenge. So just take that first step. There’s an explorer in all of us.

Here’s to your next adventure, wherever it may be.

Essential Gear

• Capable 4WD with low range
• Recovery equipment
• Plenty of food, water and warm clothes!
• Sub-zero rated sleeping bag
• Maps and compass

How To Get There

Head towards Jamieson Brewery, south of Mansfield. 8 hours from Sydney, 3 hours from Melbourne . Stay on Eildon-Jamieson Rd for about 20km until you see the entrance to Mt Terrible Track on the left.

There are hundreds of tracks within the Victorian High Country and it’s easy to get lost. Many of the tracks in the Victorian High Country are subject to seasonal closure so please be aware which tracks are closed over winter. This is the route we followed on our expedition.

Skill Level

Intermediate/Advanced

Ideally a team with experience in 4WD recoveries and navigational skills. Correct preparation for such an expedition is paramount to the safety of the team.

Distance Covered

Our journey through the Victorian High Country included 392km of tracks over 5 days. 32 hours of driving was recorded. The highest elevation reached was 1500m above sea level at the Pinnacles lookout. An absolute must-see for anyone within the Alpine National Park.

We acknowledge the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria – including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, the Bidawal, Dhudhuroa, Gunaikurnai, Jaithmathang, Taungurong and Nindi-Ngudjam Ngarigu Monero identify the Alpine National Park as their Traditional Country.

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Top 5 4wd spots less than 2 hours from melbourne.

Victoria is notorious for its confusing climate. But we think Melbourne’s famous “four seasons in one day” is just part of the fun. From world-class wineries, lush green national parks, Alpine towns and the spectacular scenery of the High Country, Victoria is sure to impress 4WD adventurers, both new and experienced alike. In this article, Offmain handpicked some of the best 4WD routes near Melbourne (1.5 hr-2hrs) ideal for spontaneous trips where you can just take off for the day without the need for much prep!

Note that due to Vitoria’s unpredictable weather, these spots have seasonal closures. Always check parks.gov.au for current closures before planning your trip. Read on to find our choices, we hope you will love them as much as we do. Comes see what’s around and how to get there.

1. Wombat & Lerderderg State Forests

1 hour (50 kms) from Melbourne.

What to do & see:

• Plenty of great 4WD tracks with river crossings and steep terrain, ranging from chill to extra challenging
• Various tracks for bushwalking ranging from shorter ones of a few hours to overnight ones (e.g. T he Tunnel Walk for cool natural rock formations
• There are BBQ’s and toilets at the Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area and jump into the Lerderderg River for a swim or go fishing.
• Grahams Dam is a beautiful swimming spot accessible only by foot from the O’Briens Crossing campground
• Shaws Lake is a great spot for a picnic and a stroll to the historic goldmining town

Camping facilities:

O’Briens Crossing is a small campsite with toilets and BBQ. Water here needs to be treated before drinking. Check our drinking water tips here.

Amblers Crossing is a more remote site and accessible via Amblers Lane Track in northern part of the State Park. It is a quieter site next to a water crossing, perfect for the summer.

2. Bunyip State Park

1.5 hours (106 kms) east of Melbourne.

• Gentle Annie (43 kms) is a steep mountain terrains with rocky climbs, and worth the drive for the spectacular views of the Gippsland
• Blue Range (15 kms) takes you through spectacular views across the park to Westernport Bay. On the return trip, you'll pass through alpine drains and steep areas before descending into flat heathlands
• Horse riding at the The Heritage Horse Trail
• Several walking tracks ranging from less than an hour to 6.5 hours

• Nash Creek Campground has a toilet and shared picnic table.
• Bunyip Weir (Freemans Mill) Camping Area on the beautiful Bunyip River No toilet.
• Forest Road Camping Area has a non flush toilet
• Mortimer Camping Area is a great base for many walking tracks. Suitable for tents only

3. Toolangi State Forest

1 hour and 10 minutes (78 kms) northeast of Melbourne.

• Rocky Track (2.4 kms) is short but a lot of the fun. Connected to Marginal track , which is notorious for the amount of bog holes
• Martins track includes a river crossing but can be overflowing in wet conditions. Recommended for experienced 4WDers. Other parts of the track has a variety of terrains
• Aeroplane track (5.3 kms) is arguably one of the most challenging tracks. Mostly mud and clay with deep ruts. Recovery is highly likely so better to travel in group and bring a winch
• Beginner-friendly walking trails. Most popular is Wirrawilla Walk , which is a short 30-minute return walk. Cool and shady with rainforest climate. Others worth exploring are Myrtle Gully Circuit, Tanglefoot Loop and Kalatha Giant Tree Walk
• Beautiful falls for fishing or cool dipping: Emily Falls, Sylvia Creek Falls, Murrindindi Falls and Cascade Falls.

Murrindindi Scenic Reserve has long drop toilets available. Treat water before drinking. Wood BBQ available but BYO firewood.

Two Hills is a bush campsite with no facilities

4. Marysville

1 hour 40 mins (97kms) northeast of Melbourne

• Strickland Spur Track has some fun rocky climbs, more suitable for experienced 4WDers. High ground clearance. Low range and Mud to Extreme Mud terrain tyres required. This is rated as a Black Diamond Track .
• Paradise Plains Rd offers a hilly drive (the views at Keppel Lookout is heavenly)
• Lady Talbot Drive has a river crossing
• In winter, climb up Mount Matlock to see some snow
• Various walking tracks. Check out Tree Fern Gully , Cumberland, Steavenson Falls and Michaeldene trail

There are a few camping sites within the Marysville State Forest : Keppel Creek Camping Area, Anderson Mill and Keppels Hut . Numerous bush camping sites are available in the adjacent Big River State Forest . Some have toilets and all have fireplaces.

5. Mount Disappointment

1 hour 17 mins (82kms) north of Melbourne

• Stony Creek Track is in the middle of Stony Creek and includes a light river crossing
• Quarry Track has some steep rocky climbs
• The Ladder Track is one of the most challenging tracks with bog holes and a serious tilt
• Plenty of walking tracks. Most popular is Strath Creek Falls. Also check out Summit Walk, Sunday Creek & Reservoir Walk

Regular Camp, Andersons Garden and No. 1 Camp. Most visitor and camping areas have picnic tables, fireplaces, and toilets.

Alright, that’s our selections of the best 4WD spots near Melbourne. We hope you enjoyed reading, but more importantly, we hope you’ll take your 4WD out there and quench your thirst for adventure! Let us know how you go and tag us on Instagram @offmain.offroad

At Offmain, we believe that 4WDing and outdoor adventure is for everyone, and getting started should be easy. Founded by a team of female 4WDers and a rookie hiking adventurer, Offmain is a positive and inclusive community for people of all experience levels, from those researching Vehicles, Camping and adventure options - all you need is the love to explore.

Come on an adventure with us 🥳

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The 6 best day trips from Melbourne without a car

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

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

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

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

1. Go for a picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

2. Cycle or walk the Warburton Rail Trail

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

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

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

3. Go off-roading on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

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

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

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

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

4. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

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

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

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

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

5. Soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was first published January 2019 and updated October 2023

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Top 5 4WD Tracks Near Melbourne

Melbourne is the mecca for the best 4WDriving tracks and here are our top five. 

MOUNT DISAPPOINTMENT 

Mount Disappointment State Forest is home to some great off-road driving on numerous 4WD and forest tracks and is ideal for a day trip or even better, a weekend getaway. The best tracks are seasonally closed and good rains improve the look of Strath Creek Falls. It’s a challenging drive up the rocky Phone Track from the junction with Phosphate Track and Quarry Road isn’t for the faint-hearted.

There are a couple of campsites, Regular Camp and No.1 Camp with pit toilets and tables but No.1 Camp is better suited to groups, caravans or camper trailers. Whilst you can’t drive to the summit of Mount Disappointment, you can tackle the 3.5km return walk from the Blairs Hut picnic area. 

The best access is from Heathcote Junction via the Hume Freeway, exit at the Wandong-Kilmore exit (C279). North Mountain Road will take you into the heart of the State Park.

TALLAROOK STATE FOREST 

There are plenty of reasons to get in your 4WD and head to Tallarook State Forest. In the dry, you shouldn’t have too many issues, but if wet the tracks become downright nasty and a winch is necessary. The terrain is hilly and rugged with large granite rocks scattered amongst the eucalypt forest. 

Mountain Track is a good place to start and although shaly, it's relatively easy going. Jenkins and Cadell Tracks are a nice drive while Rocky Track is appropriately named. For a real challenge, Phone Track and Steep Track have some decent washouts, wombat holes and rock steps on the steep climbs/descents, mud tyres and a suspension lift are required for these.

There are a couple of good camping options at Freemans Camp and Trawool Reservoir, both suited to tents/swags and camper trailers although Trawool Reservoir access is recommended 4x4 Only.\

Tallarook State Forest is accessed via the Hume Freeway, exiting at Ennis Road or Tallarook via Upper Goulburn Road (Landscape Road).

TOOLANGI STATE FOREST 

Toolangi is an excellent 4WD destination. With towering Mountain Ash, bog holes big enough to swallow your 4WD and steep, off-camber tracks that will make your nose bleed, there is something for everyone.

The best jump-off point is off the Melba Highway 23km from Yarra Glen. Turn right onto Rocky Track and drop your tyre pressures as you decide which line to take in climbing this epic track. The second option is to turn right onto Marginal Road fifty metres further along. Plenty of tracks lead either from or to Marginal Road so it’s a good place to start. 

Murrindindi Scenic Reserve has several campgrounds and is a great place to base yourself. The weather can change quickly, so make sure you have recovery gear, you’ll need it.  

BUNYIP STATE PARK 

Bunyip State Park has the stickiest orange clay, the deepest black mud and epic spots to have some fun. This is the number one 4WD destination close to Melbourne. Aboriginals believe that the “buneep” or bunyip spirit lives in the waterways in the park, hence why many Aboriginals and white settlers avoided the area. 

While all 4WD tracks are closed between mid-June and November, it still leaves heaps of time to test out your vehicle, your driving skills and your recovery techniques. 

Access to Bunyip is from Gembrook in the east or Tynong North in the south. Once there, head to Black Snake Creek Road and find a track north to the powerlines. You can have hours of fun along some of the clay and rock sections here. Anderson Track will push you in the wet and Gentle Annie, Western and Bullock Link Tracks will have you locking your diffs. 

WOMBAT STATE FOREST/LERDERDERG STATE PARK 

Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Park are very popular with 4WDrivers as the tracks are rated from easy to downright ludicrous and when wet the stakes are raised even higher. A lot of the tracks are old forest tracks from the logging days but what may start as a gravel road could turn into a tyre-spinning goat track. 

One of the most challenging is Ractcliffe Track which climbs from Firth Road up to Blue Gum Track. You’ll be tested, but then the reward is magnificent views. Blue Gum Track is another favourite and recommended to be driven north to south, you will come across vehicles heading in the opposite direction. Again, it’s the views that will take your breath away as you drive the ridgeline. 

There is good camping at Firth Park and Lerderderg Campground which are larger and more suitable for camper trailers or Upper Chadwick Campsite.

Access to Wombat State Forest is at Woodend via the Calder Highway or Blackwood via the Western Highway. 

I have spent some time in wombat and lerderderg, very beautiful scenery, plenty historical stuff, I think it was Ruth’s track that was particularly challenging, this is one place I will definitely do again.

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Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove, Red Hill South, Victoria © Robyn Lea, Brand Victoria

6 great day trips from Melbourne

World-class wineries, grand ocean road trips, mineral-rich hot springs – discover them all easily within a day’s drive of Melbourne.

  By Ute Junker

Few cities are as perfectly positioned for day tripping as Melbourne. Just an hour or two out of town, you can find yourself walking through ancient rainforests, watching wild penguins and koalas, or admiring world-class art. Throw in pretty seaside towns, a 100-year-old steam train and some of the best restaurants in the country, and you have plenty of reasons to get out of town.

Soak up the delights of Daylesford

Lake House, Daylesford, Victoria © Andrew Vukosav, Visit Victoria

Where: a 90-minute drive north-west of Melbourne.

With a scenic Central Highland setting and a healthy dose of style,  Daylesford  makes for an easy day out. Spend the morning browsing the enticing shops and galleries. Highlights include the sprawling Paradise Bookshop, the atmospheric  Convent Gallery  and artist David Bromley’s spectacular studio and gallery, Bromley and Co . Follow that with an indulgent lunch at  Lake House , one of Australia’s best regional restaurants. Another good choice is  Frank and Connie's Kitchen  down the road in Hepburn Springs where you will also find the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa . Finish the day with a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters, and perhaps a massage, before heading back to Melbourne.

Get a taste of the Great Ocean Road

Lorne, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Rob Blackburn, Visit Victoria

Unmissable experience

In the heart of the Otways is a spectacular forest of Californian Redwoods . Stroll through towering trees, visit nearby waterfalls and enjoy a picnic before continuing your journey.

Where: The Great Ocean Road begins 90 minutes south-west of the city, in Torquay.

The  Great Ocean Road  is best explored over a couple of days; however, if you only have a day, you can still take in the highlights of the eastern end of the route. Start your journey from Torquay, one of Australia’s best-known surf towns and home to both the Rip Curl and Quiksilver surfwear labels. A further 45 minutes down the road,  Lorne  is another charming seaside town, known for its lively arts scene (don’t miss  Qdos Arts ) and its one-kilometre (0.6-mile) long beach. You might like to grab some lunch here before continuing on to the Great Ocean Road's most famous sight the  12 Apostles . Nearby, the striking Loch Ard Gorge is also worth visiting before you head back to Melbourne.

Savour the Yarra Valley's wine and wildlife

Domaine Chandon Winery, Yarra Valley, Victoria © Adrian Brown, Tourism Australia

Where: about an hour drive north-east of the city.

Wineries aren’t the only attraction in the  Yarra Valley . Your first stop,  Coombe , is a historic house with heritage gardens that belonged to Australia’s first international opera star, Dame Nellie Melba. From here, it’s a quick drive to  Domaine Chandon , one of Australia’s premier producers of sparkling wine. After sampling the bubbles, head on to  Healesville Sanctuary  to encounter kangaroos, koalas, wombats, dingoes, lyrebirds, platypus and Tasmanian devils. Ready for some more wine tasting?  Innocent Bystander  and  TarraWarra Estate  are both recommended, and each has an excellent restaurant. Stop in at the  TarraWarra Museum of Art , which has a fabulous collection of acclaimed Australian artists such as Brett Whiteley, before heading back to Melbourne.

Green up in the Dandenongs

National Rhododendron Gardens, Olinda, Victoria © Parks Victoria

Where: a one-hour drive east of Melbourne.

The  Dandenongs’  tall forests and glorious gardens are a perfect escape from the city. Start your adventures at  National Rhododendron Gardens . Its 42 hectares (104 acres) are filled with azaleas, camellias and cherries as well as rhododendrons. From here, it’s a short drive to Kallista, where Grants Picnic Ground is the start of a beautiful 6.6-kilometre (four-mile) circular walk in Sherbrooke Forest through fern-filled gullies where kookaburras and cockatoos make their homes. Continue on to another of the area’s charming villages, Belgrave, to take a trip into the past on a 100-year-old steam train known as  Puffing Billy . Book in for an on-board lunch and enjoy the return journey through the area’s towering forests before making your way back to Melbourne. 

Discover the natural beauty of Phillip Island

Forest Caves Beach, Phillip Island, Victoria © David Hannah, Visit Victoria

Where: about a two-hour drive south of the city.

Aim to reach the fishing village of San Remo before midday to watch the daily feeding of the pelicans and stingrays. From here, a bridge takes you to  Phillip Island . Take a walk around rugged Cape Woolamai with its striking pink granite cliffs and golden sweep of sand. Next stop for motor sport fans will be the  Grand Prix Circuit  that hosts the Motorcycle Grand Prix each October; take a guided tour or do laps with a professional driver. After lunch take an  eco-cruise  to admire one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. Finish the day at the  Penguin Parade , when hundreds of little penguins come ashore at Summerland Beach after a day swimming at sea. The island is also home to a koala reserve where you can walk along an elevated boardwalk to see koalas close up in their natural habitat.

Where to meet Australia's cutest animals

Go coastal on the Mornington Peninsula

Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove, Red Hill South, Victoria © Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove

Where: about an hour south of the city.

Its pretty seaside villages, superb wineries and restaurants make the  Mornington Peninsula  a wonderful year-round destination. Take the inland route to reach the  McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery  at Langwarrin which showcases more than 100 works by well-known Australian artists. From here, start exploring the area’s celebrated wineries known for pinot noir and cool-climate chardonnay. Many of the best wineries, such as  Montalto  and  Ten Minutes by Tractor , also have acclaimed restaurants that are a great choice for lunch. After lunch, head to Peninsula Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in their thermal mineral baths before exploring historic seaside towns such as Portsea and Sorrento, which both feature well-preserved heritage buildings and beautiful beaches with great snorkelling. From Sorrento, enjoy the car ferry trip to the equally inviting town of Queenscliff, before heading back to Melbourne.

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Melbourne

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Beautiful beaches, quirky wildlife, spa towns, and spectacular wilderness areas — you'll find all this and more within a few hours' drive of Melbourne . One of the country's most dazzling scenic drives, the Great Ocean Road, lies less than 200 kilometers from the city, as well as gorgeous Grampian National Park, the gleaming white-sand shores of Wilsons Promontory, and the rugged Dandenong Ranges.

Wildlife is a highlight at many of these city escapes. You can watch penguins parading up a pristine beach at Phillip Island, and see colorful parrots, wild kangaroos, and wombats in the national parks.

In addition to the rich natural beauty just a short drive from the CBD, Victoria's elegant seaside resorts charm visitors with their quaint shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants. History buffs can explore an old gold rush town. And if you're looking for Melbourne day trips in winter, skiers and snowboarders can carve up the slopes of Mount Buller less than a three-hour drive from the city.

Step outside the city limits and explore the surroundings with our list of the best day trips from Melbourne .

1. Great Ocean Road

2. phillip island's penguin parade, 3. the mornington peninsula, 4. the dandenong ranges and the yarra valley, 5. peninsula hot springs, 6. grampians national park, 7. wilsons promontory national park, 8. daylesford: day spas and mineral springs, 10. sovereign hill at ballarat, 11. mount buller skiing, 12. hanging rock reserve, the macedon ranges, map of day trips from melbourne.

About 200 kilometers from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most spectacular stretches of coastline and a top place to visit on a road trip. The drive from the city carves along steep sea cliffs, as well as the surf-thrashed beaches of Port Campbell National Park, where the distinctive rock pinnacles, the Twelve Apostles , tower above a swirling sea.

Other Great Ocean Road highlights include the wind- and sea-sculpted rock formations of Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch.

Mother Nature's power is on dazzling display here. To fully appreciate it, hop aboard a helicopter for a bird's-eye view of this dramatic coast, also called the Shipwreck Coast . While in the area, you can take a walk near koala-rich Kennett River ; look for kangaroos and wallabies in Great Otway National Park; or enjoy a different perspective of the forest at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures , including a treetop walk and zipline tour.

Are you a surfing fan? Stop in Torquay along the way to visit the Surf World Museum , and look for huge waves at legendary Bells Beach . This is also one of the best day trips from Melbourne with dogs — many of the beaches around Torquay allow pooches, and a couple allow leash-free romps.

When it comes to Melbourne road trips by car, it's hard to beat the Great Ocean Road. But if you're wondering how to get there without a car, you're in luck. You can enjoy many of these adventures on the Great Ocean Road Small-Group Eco-Tour from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes plenty of time to soak up the beautiful coastal scenery, including a hike in Great Otway National Park, Kennett River koala spotting, and a stop at Apollo Bay. A 15-minute helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles is an optional extra.

Phillip Island, about 140 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, is a top pick for wildlife lovers. Each night at sunset, visitors gather along the shore to watch adorable penguins waddle up the beach at the Phillip Island Nature Park .

Before the "Penguin Parade," you can visit some of the nearby wildlife parks. See koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre . Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies at Phillip Island Wildlife Park , or visit the Nobbies , a boardwalk that skirts the headland's seabird gardens with breathtaking views of the coast. Little penguins often rest along here, and in the spring, keep an eye out for silver gull chicks.

For more information on the ecology of the area, stop by the free Nobbies Centre and browse the educational displays.

Across Bass Strait from here is Seal Rocks , Australia's largest fur seal colony . Bring binoculars to see the seals, or board a wildlife cruise for close-up views. Thanks to all these educational experiences and wildlife sightings, this is one of the best Melbourne day trips for families.

An easy way to visit this top tourist attraction is on the Phillip Island Penguin Highlights Day Trip from Melbourne . This full-day excursion covers all the highlights, including wildlife viewing at Maru Koala and Animal Park, the Nobbies, and the famous Penguin Parade.

Official site: http://www.penguins.org.au/

A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the picturesque Mornington Peninsula is a favorite seaside escape from the city. Flanked by the ocean on one side and Port Phillip Bay on the other, this prime sliver of real estate hosts tranquil coves, cute villages, and rocky shores.

One of the Mornington Peninsula's top places to visit is stylish Sorrento , site of the state's first mainland European settlement. Heritage buildings, high-end shops, boutiques, and cafés are waiting for you to explore. Soak up the seaside scenery, and see the vacation homes of Australia's posh set along " Millionaire's Walk ," a five-kilometer clifftop trail above Port Phillip Bay, between Sorrento and Portsea.

Hiking is popular on back beach trails and in the rugged bushland on the end of the peninsula at Point Nepean National Park. Other highlights of the area include a ride on the scenic Sorrento-Queenscliff ferry, dolphin cruises, Peninsula Hot Springs, and the chance to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins and seals.

The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley have been a favorite weekend getaway for well-to-do Melburnians for more than a century. This day trip has a little something for everyone — from nature and wildlife to cute villages, fantastic food, and a fun ride on a historic train.

Start the day with a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges, about 40 kilometers east of Melbourne. Here, you can hike through rainforests of mountain ash trees to soothing cascades in the beautiful fern-filled Sherwood Forest. You can also hand-feed native birds, such as crimson rosellas, cockatoos, and galahs at Grants Picnic Ground . Nearby, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and William Ricketts Sanctuary are also worth a visit.

At Belgrave , board the 100-year-old Puffing Billy steam train and stroll around the artisan shops. You can also relax with a Devonshire tea in storybook-cute villages such as Olinda, a green thumb's delight with the excellent Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens and Cloudehill Nursery and Gardens .

Not far from here, the Yarra Valley is a haven for foodies, with fresh produce, first-class restaurants, and the chance to sample handmade farmyard cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy . Are you an animal lover? One of the top things to do in this region is visit the popular Healesville Sanctuary to see native Australian animals and birds.

Note that in June, 2021, severe storms struck the Dandenong Ranges, impacting many local businesses. Check for any closures before you visit.

Feel like being pampered? How about a soak in steamy mineral spring pools followed by a customized massage and a nourishing organic meal? You can do this and more at Peninsula Hot Springs, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne in the Mornington Peninsula.

Turkish steam bath, anyone? Reflexology walk? You can choose from 50 bathing experiences from around the world at the Bath House here. Or you might prefer a dip in a cave pool or a soak on a hilltop with breathtaking views. Steamy mineral water seeps from underground springs into the many pools set within a forest of tea trees, creating a relaxing setting to soak your cares away, no matter where you choose to take your dip.

Peninsula Hot Springs is one of the most popular short day trips from Melbourne by car. And don't think this is just for singles and couples. Families are also welcome here.

To make your visit even easier, book the Peninsula Hot Springs Day Trip with Thermal Bathing Entry from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes transport to and from the hot springs, bath house admission, and a local expert driver so you can sit back and relax on the journey. Luxury spa treatments are an optional extra.

After your pampering visit, save time to complement your therapeutic soak with a healthy meal at the café.

Address: Springs Lane, Fingal, Victoria

Official site: http://www.peninsulahotsprings.com/

Grampians National Park (often called "The Grampians") offers beautiful vistas of waterfalls, colorful spring wildflowers, rock formations, and rugged crags. It lies about 260 kilometers from Melbourne.

Avid hikers in particular will enjoy this park, and anyone can admire the breathtaking scenery from its many panoramic lookouts. Called "Gariwerd" by the Aboriginal people, the park also shelters traditional rock art. You can learn more about this rich history and the park's ecology at Brambuk the National Park & Cultural Centre .

Other top attractions in the Grampians include the beautiful MacKenzie Falls , Victoria's tallest waterfall; Beehive Falls, with its fern-fringed rock pools; Fish Falls ; and the panoramic lookouts at the Pinnacle and the Balconies. You can also drive to Reeds and Boroka lookouts.

Wildlife is abundant. Kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and echidnas, make their home here, and sightings of friendly marsupials are common.

Besides hiking, other popular outdoor activities include abseiling and rock climbing on the faces of Mt. Arapiles, fishing and canoeing at the park's lakes and rivers, quad biking, and horseback riding. If you're considering staying overnight, Halls Gap is the gateway to the park and makes a great base. Bring a camera, and be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.

The Grampians is also a popular destination for foodies. Enjoy the excellent restaurants and fresh local produce, including olives, cheeses, and meats.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/grampians-national-park

Affectionately called "The Prom" by locals, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the state's largest coastal wilderness area and a nirvana for nature lovers and photographers. It lies on the southernmost point of the Australian mainland, about a three-hour drive from Melbourne's city center. It's a long drive for a day trip, but the spectacular scenery of squeaky-clean beaches, cool-climate rainforests, and rugged granite peaks is worth the trip.

Highlights include guided walks through the bushland, the granite rock formations of Giant Rock , the white quartz sands of Squeaky Beach , Lilly Pilly Gully , and the sea-sculpted boulders of Whisky Bay . The park is also known for its rich native wildlife, such as wombats, emus, kangaroos, and many birds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do. Scenic hikes lace the bushland, from short one-hour walks to multi-day treks. The one-hour hike up Mt. Oberon summit has one of the park's best viewpoints, overlooking the Tidal River and the coast. Divers can explore the underwater world in the marine national park. Other activities include swimming, fishing, canoeing, camping, and bird-watching. Strong hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

Skirting the Wombat State Forest, about 115 kilometers from Melbourne, a Daylesford day trip is perfect for a pampering city escape. Soothing mineral springs, wellness centers, and day spas are the prime draws in this quaint country town, earning it a reputation as the spa capital of Australia .

Drawn by these healing mineral springs and the gold rush, many Swiss and Italian immigrants settled here, imbuing the town with an old-world feel. A popular destination in the region is the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, in neighboring Hepburn Springs, which has been lavishing guests since 1895. Another must-see is The Convent , an enchanting 19th-century estate on six acres atop Wombat Hill, with beautiful views over town, impressive art galleries, a chapel, and museum.

Daylesford is also known for its many award-winning restaurants serving seasonal local produce. To dine at one of the town's top eateries, stroll around beautiful Lake Daylesford and enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Lake House , which is also a small luxury hotel. You can also browse the town's quaint shops, antique markets, and historic buildings.

About 138 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, Lorne, on beautiful Loutit Bay, has long been one of the country's favorite seaside resorts. Snuggled between Otway National Park and the Great Ocean Road , this pretty little town offers an intoxicating mix of Mediterranean ambience, seaside elegance, and natural beauty.

You'll never be bored here. Popular things to do include swimming and surfing at the long, golden beach, with its nearby cafés and skatepark, and casting a line off the local pier for fish like trevally and whiting. The pier also plays host to the fish co-op, where you can buy the fresh catch of the day. Tourists also love browsing the boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, and galleries.

Teddy's Lookout , a five-minute drive from town, offers beautiful views over the coast and Great Ocean Road. Another popular attraction in the area is Erskine Falls , rimmed by lush ferns and eucalyptus forest.

Insider's tip: During peak vacation times around Christmas, a torrent of tourists fills this tiny town, so you should book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

At Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, you can experience the exciting 1850s gold rush days in a living museum. About 110 kilometers from Melbourne, this recreated gold-mining town is one of the top attractions in Ballarat . Here, you can watch goldsmiths and artisans at work in Victorian-era houses and shops, tour an underground gold mine, and even pan for the precious metal. Costumed staff, stagecoach rides, and a dazzling sound and lights show round out all the historical fun.

The town of Ballarat was the epicenter of the Australian Gold Rush. Learn all about this important chapter of Australian history by touring the historic sites, heritage buildings, and old churches around town.

Other highlights include Art Gallery Ballarat , with works from Gold Rush artists; the beautiful 40-acre Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the banks of Lake Wendouree; and Ballarat Wildlife Park . Ballarat is also home to award-winning restaurants, so don't forget to top off your tour with a memorable meal.

Don't have a car? This is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne by train.

Official site: http://www.sovereignhill.com.au/

In winter, rain often means snow in the mountains, so if the weather is not cooperating with your outdoor activities in the city, you can play at the snowy peaks nearby. From early June through late September (depending on snowfall), avid skiers and boarders can hit the slopes of Mount Buller, one of Australia's best ski resorts , about a three-hour drive from Melbourne.

Mount Buller has the most extensive lift system of all the Victorian resorts, with 22 lifts transporting guests to 300 hectares of skiable terrain and three terrain parks. About 35 percent caters to advanced skiers, and the resort also offers plenty of runs for beginners and intermediates. Cross country skiers can explore nine kilometers of trails.

For non-skiers, the village is a fun place to hang out. Relax at the spas, browse the shops, or take the kids to the resort's toboggan parks. This is a great trip for families seeking a first-time snow experience, as well as enthusiastic skiers and boarders looking for a wintertime city escape.

Official site: http://www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/

Rich in mystique, Hanging Rock Reserve is a wonderful wilderness escape in the Macedon Ranges. Less than an hour northwest of Melbourne, the massive 105-meter-high extinct volcano, now eroded into columns, was the location for Peter Weir's iconic film, Picnic at Hanging Rock , based on the book by Joan Lindsay.

The rock is also an important Aboriginal landmark and was reputedly a refuge for bushrangers during the Gold Rush. Even if you're not familiar with the legend that captured the imagination of many Australians, Hanging Rock Reserve is truly a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic or a hike in the fresh eucalyptus-tinged air.

The round-trip climb to the top takes about 50 minutes, with plenty of secret nooks to slither in along the way, and beautiful views over the countryside. You can also explore the other hiking trails that weave through the reserve. Keep an eye out for wildlife like wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and wombats.

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The 8 BEST Day Trips from Melbourne (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 3, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What to do on the Great Ocean Road

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

1. The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Yarra Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can get a reliable, cheap rental car here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. The Grampians National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our latest guide on the best Grampians walks !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Wilsons Promontory National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Melbourne Day Trips – Mornington Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mount Buller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the experts check out Slalom Gully or The FastOne .

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

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

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

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

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

Skyline Park is that happy medium between the two.

Summer is a whole different experience at Mount Buller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Phillip Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The Best Day Trips Around Melbourne

February 17, 2022

Make the most of the last few weeks of summer by heading out for a day trip. We think day trips are a great way to explore your local area and escape the daily grind. 

On a day out, you can expand your horizons and relax. You can just get in the car and head off, without the hassle of booking accommodation. 

If you’re looking for some ideas for your next big day out, then you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll share our top day trip spots around Melbourne to inspire you. 

Great Ocean Road

About 200kms from Melbourne, the  Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most spectacular stretches of coastline. 

The drive takes you past steep sea-cliffs, beaches, and of course, views of the ocean. Plus, you can see the iconic rock pinnacles, the Twelve Apostles. 

Enjoy a SUP or surfing session at one of the world-renowned beaches. Or, you can have a picnic and go for walks in the nearby national park. 

If you love animals, then Phillip Island’s  Penguin Parade is for you! Located 140kms from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a haven for wildlife.

At sunset, you can watch penguins parade up the beaches. Take a walk around the headland and expect to see koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, seabirds and views of the ocean. 

Dandenong Ranges

A drive 40kms east from Melbourne will take you to the scenic  Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley. Enjoy hikes through mountains and rainforests or visit nearby gardens, teeming with birds and wildlife. 

Plus, there are some  epic 4WDing tracks for the ultimate 4X4 day trip. 

Grampians National Park

Three hours drive from Melbourne,  Grampians National Park has plenty to offer, whether you’re keen on 4wding, rock-climbing, hiking, mountain-biking, or walking. 

The park features dramatic mountain views, waterfalls, rock art, lakes, and best of all,  4wd tracks . We reckon 4wding is a great way to explore. The tracks take you past all the natural attractions and lookouts. 

If you don’t get a chance to see it all in one day, you can also  camp overnight . 

Are You Ready For Your Day Trip This Summer?

Whether you are going to the beach or the bush, you’ll want to be prepared. At CAOS, we stock everything you need to make your next day trip a great one. 

Come in store or  shop online to pick up your gear! 

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NOMAD Shower Tent Awning with Roof

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AUSTRALIAN 4X4 TREKS Guided Self-Drive 4WD Adventures in Australia & New Zealand 

Our tag along tours are carefully planned to allow you to safely experience scenic and remote 4WD destinations. See the most amazing sights. Connect with nature. Test yourself and your vehicle. Take away the risk and hassle by using the knowledge of a professional tour arranger and guide. Tour Guide Tony Davys is your dedicated full-time professional tour guide with a host of qualifications. His business is endorsed by the most well respected tour guide associations in the country, ensuring an exceptional touring experience. Together with a team of like-minded companions, we will make this your next great adventure. 10% Discount applies for your second and subsequent tours within Australia . See our upcoming tours below. To receive a pre-booking "Info Pack" please email Tony on [email protected] and request one for the relevant tour. 

 Tour Guide Tony

A tour guide can make or break your travel experience. you will spend about 2 to 4  weeks with a guide on these kinds of tours, so you want to make sure that the guide ticks all the boxes. the easiest way to figure this out is to get on the phone and give them a call. tony is more than happy to have a chat about his tours, but more than this, you will get a feeling for who he is and the way he operates. in australia, individual tag along tour guides are not required to be accredited, which we think is crazy. ensure your safety in remote environments by opting for a reputable guide with the necessary qualifications. tony is an accredited savannah guide, ecoguides australia, and tour guides australia certified professional guide, with a cert iv trainer & assessor qualification in 4wd instruction. he also has a degree in tourism and a masters degree in science specialising in wildlife management (and he's a self-confessed "wildlife fanatic"). in addition to this, our business is the only tag along tour operator in australia approved under the savannah guides enterprise accreditation scheme. see what savannah guides is all about at  this link . "𝐴𝑚𝑎𝑧𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑝 𝑇𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑔𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑒. 𝑆𝑎𝑓𝑒𝑡𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑎𝑦𝑠 ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑦. 𝐻𝑖𝑠 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤𝑙𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑎𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑧𝑖𝑛𝑔. 𝐹𝑢𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑑 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑎 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑘𝑒. 𝐴𝑤𝑒𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒" - jɪʟʟ mᴀᴡ, sɪᴍᴘsᴏɴ dᴏᴜʙʟᴇ cʀᴏssɪɴɢ tᴏᴜʀ 2022 to learn more about tony's experience and history, please follow  this link.

Watch the Video -  Tony's Sand Driving and Max Trax Recovery Masterclass at the top of the Cape with Paul from #The Feel Good Family

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4X4 Treks in 2024/25

Simpson Desert Double Crossing. Windorah to Birdsville. 15 Nights

2025 tours - bookings now open. $6207 for 1 or 2 people in one vehicle. no trailers. 8 vehicles max.  • 2 aug - 16 aug; and • 20 aug - 3 sept (add the birdsville races 6-7 sept)  .

Join us for an in-depth and un-hurried 15-night tour of the Simpson Desert, featuring a full 10 days in the desert itself.  This tour is designed to fully immerse you in the remote beauty of the desert, including the lesser-travelled Southern tracks like the WAA Line and Rig Rd, as well as well-known spots like Poeppel Corner and the QAA and French Lines.  After a relaxing two nights at Mt Dare to rest and resupply, we'll head to the remote Madigan Line in the north for another five days in the desert before returning to Birdsville for a final celebratory night. Three meals are included on this tour, as well as cabin accommodation at the start, and dinner, bed and breakfast in the Birdsville Hotel at the end of the tour, as well as a scenic flight over the desert and flood plains (2025 onwards). No off-road driving experience is required, just a sense of adventure (though some camping experience and a good shake-down run of your gear is recommended). Full 4WD instruction will be provided along the way. If you want to truly experience the Simpson Desert, this is the tour for you. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Brisbane from Overlander 4WD Hire and receive our exclusive discount. FIND OUT MORE HERE

Rather be a Passenger? Contact Andrew Dwyer from our trusted affiliate business  Diamantina Touring Company for information about in-vehicle, catered Simpson Desert Tours. 2024 is Diamantina's final year running these tours after 37 years, so get in quick!

"Since 1988, family business Diamantina Touring Company have been operating award winning expeditions to remote parts of outback Australia. Fabulous Australian Cuisine, fine wines, expert guides, all vehicles in fleet under 2 years old, luxury swags and a great crew. Trips to the Canning Stock Route, Simpson Desert, Great Victoria Desert and Nullarbor, Western Deserts and Pilbara and Aboriginal cultural experiences."

Canning Stock Route Experience, North to South. Alice to Uluru. 24 Nights 

• 8 july - 31 july 2024 (sold out) no trailers. 8 vehicles max. 2025 tour  • 3 june - 26 jun bookings now open. one tour only . from $7822 for 1 or 2 people in one vehicle..

"This tour is not a holiday, it's an experience" The Canning is the longest continuous 4WD track in the World, and a bucket list item for many adventurous travellers. In addition to pitting yourself and your vehicle against the harshness of the track and the environment, the historic component, both European and Indigenous, is fascinating. During this tour, you'll spend a total of 17 days on the actual Canning Stock Route, plenty of time to really enjoy being in the desert. You'll camp among the sand dunes, near historic wells, and under the shade of desert oaks and bloodwood trees. In addition to the stunning desert landscape, you'll also have the opportunity to see unique desert wildlife and plants and learn that there's much more to the desert than just sand. This tour starts at the Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel in Alice Springs with an included hotel room and dinner at the restaurant, and ends in Uluru/Ayres Rock with a complimentary Uluru 3 day pass and a final breakfast.  Some remote off-road experience is desirable as the track is VERY ROUGH. If you're considering this tour for your first desert experience, we suggest you should have a crack at our  Simpson Desert Double Crossing Tour  or the Beadell Highways Trek first. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Broome or Darwin from Allstar 4WD Hire Highly recommended product - Protect your Paintwork with  Bush Barrier . FIND OUT MORE HERE

Rather be a Passenger? Contact Andrew Dwyer from our trusted affiliate business  Diamantina Touring Company for information about in-vehicle, catered Canning Stock Route Tours. 2024 is Diamantina's final year running these tours after 37 years, so get in quick!

"Embarking on a journey along the Canning Stock Route is an experience beyond your wildest imagination... Since 1988, family business Diamantina Touring Company have been operating award winning expeditions to remote parts of outback Australia. Fabulous Australian Cuisine, fine wines, expert guides, all vehicles in fleet under 2 years old, luxury swags and a great crew. Trips to the Canning Stock Route, Simpson Desert, Great Victoria Desert and Nullarbor, Western Deserts and Pilbara and Aboriginal cultural experiences."

Cape York Tag Along Adventure. Cooktown to Atherton. 16 Nights. 

$7385 per vehicle incl. 2 people. 8 vehicles max. off-road caravan friendly -  9 august - 24 august 2024   more info here based on "the feel good family" tour (sold out) 4wd tour - camper trailer & slide-on friendly - 28 august - 12 september 2024  more info here 2025 tour - bookings now open. one tour only . from $7802 for 1 or 2 people in one vehicle. • 10 july - 25 july.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure to the Tip of Cape York and beyond. Way more than just a camping trip to the Tip, your experienced guide will not only show you the best spots on the Cape, but also the rare birds and animals that most people overlook. Fantastic inclusions make this the premier tag along tour of the Cape. You'll have the opportunity to get your iconic photo at the Tip, take the included day trip to Thursday Island, plus 2 included half day tours in Weipa, drive on the Old Tele Track, conquer challenging water crossings, swim in crystal clear streams, go fishing in remote locations, camp in wilderness settings, and encounter unique wildlife that can't be found anywhere else. There are also 3 dinners and a lunch provided, as well as a motel room in Atherton on our last night. No off-road driving experience is necessary for this tour - just bring a sense of adventure and a well set up vehicle (or hire one). Full instruction will be provided throughout the journey. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Cairns from Overlander 4WD Hire and receive our exclusive discount. FIND OUT MORE HERE

New Tour for 2025! Central Australian Desert Loop. Uluru/Ayers Rock to Alice Springs. 7 Days, 8 Nights. 

$3843 per vehicle incl. 2 people. 8 vehicles max. off-road camper trailers ok. • 3 may - 10 may 2025 - bookings now open. .

If you're pushed for time but still want to experience the remoteness and scenic beauty of the desert, then this is the tour for you. Starting with a complimentary 3 day pass to Uluru NP, our first night's accommodation in a cabin at the caravan park, and a welcome dinner in Yulara/Uluru, we then head past the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta on our way West along the Great Central Road. Passing into WA, we visit the Giles Meteorological Station before making our way up the seldom travelled and very scenic Sandy Blight Road. Our route takes us through Aboriginal Communities where we can refuel, and through very remote desert country. We will loop back towards Alice Springs, stopping at some of the amazing gorges in the West MacDonald Ranges along the way. Our included final night and dinner is at Lasseters Crowne Plaza Hotel in Alice Springs.  No off-road driving experience is necessary for this tour - just bring a sense of adventure and a well set up vehicle (or hire one). Full instruction will be provided throughout the journey. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Darwin  from Overlander 4WD Hire and receive our exclusive discount. FIND OUT MORE HERE Email Tony for more information and bookings: [email protected]  

New Tour for 2025! Beadell Highways Trek. Alice Springs to Coober Pedy. 15 Nights (incl. Surveyor General's Cnr)

$5775 per vehicle incl. 2 people. 8 vehicles max. off-road camper trailers ok. • 14 may - 28 may 2025 - bookings now open. .

Starting with our included first night's accommodation and dinner at Lasseters Crowne Plaza Hotel in Alice Springs, we take on several of the legendary Len Beadell's Central Australian "Highways" on this giant "C-shaped" trek. From Alice, we find the start of the Gary Highway , following this deep into the desert through some remote Aboriginal Communities all the way into WA, before heading abruptly South on the very scenic and seldom travelled Sandy Blight Road . Emerging onto the Great Central Road , we visit the Giles Meteorological Station near Warakurna, and then onto Surveyor General's Corner , on the tri-state border of SA, NT and WA.  Popping back out onto the Great Central once more, we refuel at Warburton before tackling the remote Connie Sue Highway Southwards into the Great Victoria Desert . From Neale Junction, it's a 900 km run East on the Anne Beadell Highway through incredibly remote desert country. Along the way, there are several points of interest, including the most remote fuel stop in Australia, Ilkurlka Roadhouse, and the Emu Field Nuclear Test Area . We emerge back out into "civilisation" on the Stuart Highway at Coober Pedy, where we will have a night in the underground hotel, and our final dinner together.  Some off-road driving experience is preferred for this tour - it is very remote and the corrugations can be quite rough. FIND OUT MORE HERE Email Tony for more information and bookings : [email protected] 

Hire an adventure ready 4WD Camper  from our trusted supplier, Overlander 4WD Hire , and receive our exclusive * 10% discount off the hire price.   Click here for more information about the 4WD Camper.

*Discount is on hires of 14 days duration or longer. Applies to Toyota vehicles for Simpson Desert, Cape York, Kimberley and Arnhem Land Tours only. Check vehicle specifications against our requirements. 

 South Island 4X4 Treks Accommodated Tour

New Zealand South Island High Country - Accommodated & Fully Catered 4WD Tour. Christchurch to Queenstown. 11 Nights

Includes 12 day 4wd hire. 5 vehicles maximum 2025 tours - bookings now open from $13,830 per couple/twin share 25 jan - 5 feb; and 11 - 22 feb 2026 tours - bookings now open from $15,508 per couple/twin share starting 11th feb, 1st march, & 19th march. .

Embark on the premier High Country Tag Along Tour in New Zealand with our unparalleled offering. No other operator offers such excellent accommodation, meals and experiences, making this the tour for adventurers wanting to "rough it in style". Our tour includes spectacular off-road driving during the day, picnic lunches "on the hill", and very comfortable farm stay, lodge, motel and hotel accommodation at night, along with delicious meals. You will be accompanied at all times by your qualified guide, Tony. He's a Kiwi with an intimate knowledge and experience of the South Island High Country, so you will get to see the countryside through his eyes. It's not all about four wheel driving though, with the itinerary including an informative tram tour of Christchurch City, a 50 min scenic flight over and around the highest mountains in NZ, a 2 hour jetboat tour up an incredible mountain valley, and our final dinner overlooking Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu at the Stratosfare Restaurant up the gondola! The 4WD tracks have been selected for their scenery over technical difficulty, however, some of the driving will definitely get your heart racing! The tour includes vehicle hire for 12 days, but you can extend your rental if you want to do some extra exploring while you're there. It's also fully catered, so you don't have to worry about how to keep your food cold during the day. Flights to and from Christchurch are not included in the tour cost. LIVE IN NEW ZEALAND AND/OR HAVE YOUR OWN VEHICLE?  If you have your own vehicle in NZ, you are welcome to come along. We will amend the tour price accordingly. HOW ABOUT A PRIVATE TOUR OPTION?  If you get a group of 10 - 12 people together, we can arrange a tour with all manner of optional extras and varied itineraries depending on what you would like to do (prices vary).  FIND OUT MORE HERE

*Arnhem Land & Kakadu 4WD Discovery Tour 21 Days

• 4 - 24 august 2024 • 11 - 31 august 2025 from $11,500 per vehicle including 2 people off-road camper trailers ok.

*This tour is operated by our trusted affiliate business " See Around Corners 4WD Tours " Throughout 21 days we venture across Kakadu National Park, Garig Gunak Barlu National Park and North East Arnhem. Experiencing the iconic scenery of places like Ubirr and Corroboree Billabong, as well as taking a dive into the culture and art work of the Bininj-Kunwok, North West and Yolgnu of North East Arnhem Land. Be amazed by incredible scenery and spotting wildlife such as estuarine (saltwater) crocodile, buffalo, dolphins, dugongs in their own environment. This is a true adventure, exploring the best Arnhem Land and Kakadu have to offer. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Darwin from Overlander 4WD Hire and receive our exclusive discount. FIND OUT MORE HERE

*Kimberley Wanderer 4WD Adventure Tour 26 Days

• 30 may - 24 june 2024 • 1 - 26 july 2024 • 2 - 27 june 2025 • 7 july - 1 august 2025 from $7800 per vehicle including 2 people off-road camper trailers ok.

*This tour is operated by our trusted affiliate business " See Around Corners 4WD Tours " Over 26 days we explore the Kimberley. Experiencing the iconic scenery of places like Purnululu, Lake Argyle, Cockburn Ranges, Michell Plateau, Kalumburu, Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek and Dampier Peninsula to name a few. Not to mention the Gibb !! Described as one of the last frontiers, be amazed by incredible indigenous culture, history, scenery and wildlife. There will be plenty of time to fish for Barra, enjoy scenic flights as well as a number of included cruises. This trip ticks off the best the Kimberley has to offer as well as some little known, hand picked gems. Hire a fully equipped 4WD for this tour in Darwin from Overlander 4WD Hire and receive our exclusive discount. FIND OUT MORE HERE

*Nepal - Himalayan Mountains 4WD Tour  15 Days

The only 4wd tag along tour in nepal where you can actually drive yourself in the mountains tours run march - may & october - december  from $ 10,800 per person twin share [single suppl. +$1500] including  nepal internal flights.

*This tour is run by our trusted affiliate business, " Off-Road Lands ". Stan Gemlitski has a wealth of experience in this part of the World, and his team of guides are all Government licensed, English speaking Nepalese locals.  15 days of adventure exploring the mountain regions of Nepal including Kathmandu, Besishahar, Chame, Manang, Khansar, and Pokhara. Join us on this tour with its mix of self-drive and professional driver/guide 4WD adrenalin adventure.  Guided by locals who are the region's most passionate guides, our range of exclusive self-drive Off-Road Lands 4WD tours depart from Kathmandu in Nepal.​ Since 2016 , we have been allowing travellers to escape and reconnect with nature. We take the stress out of planning with our range of our heavily-inclusive tours, including flights, accommodation, activities, and most meals. So sit back, relax and let our expert guides do the hard work, showing you some of the most mesmerising lands in Nepal. To find out more information about this incredible tour, click here to be taken to Off-Road Land's website

Protect your Paintwork with  Bush Barrier – The ultimate temporary, removable and reusable 4×4 panel protection. Magnetic coverage installed in minutes.  Recommended for our Canning Stock Route Tours.  Click here for more information .

Email for info and availability

Sustainability committment.

At Australian 4X4 Treks, we are committed to sustainability in every aspect of our operations. From the rugged outback tracks we traverse to the communities we encounter, we prioritise responsible practices that minimise our environmental impact and respect cultural heritage. The information we provide to our customers before and during a tour, showcases our sustainability commitment, emphasising our efforts towards sustainable operations, environmental stewardship, and cultural responsibility. We strive to provide clear details on how we contribute to conservation, support local communities, and take action on climate change. From reducing emissions through efficient vehicle maintenance to practicing “Leave No Trace” principles in the wilderness areas we visit, we are dedicated to minimising our footprint while maximising the enjoyment of our guests. Additionally, we actively seek out opportunities to reduce energy consumption wherever possible. At Australian 4X4 Treks, sustainability isn't just a buzzword – it's a way of life. We invite you to join us on our journey towards a greener, more responsible future as we explore the beauty of Australia's natural landscapes while preserving them for generations to come. 

"𝑊𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑛 𝑢𝑝 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑣𝑒ℎ𝑖𝑐𝑙𝑒 - 𝑇𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑑𝑖𝑑 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑡 𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑙𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑎𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑠 𝑔𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝐵𝑖𝑟𝑑𝑠𝑣𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑢𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑤𝑒𝑡 𝑤𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑟𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑐𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒𝑠. 𝑇𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤𝑙𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒, 𝑝𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒. 𝑊𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑛𝑜 ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑇𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑖𝑚 𝑡𝑜 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠. 5 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑜𝑓 5 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑠." - Iᴀɴ & Aɴɴ Cᴏʟʟᴀʀᴅ, Sɪᴍᴘsᴏɴ Dᴇsᴇʀᴛ Tᴏᴜʀ 2022

What is a tag-along tour & why travel with our tag-along group?

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Melbourne

Backpacking Melbourne Travel Guide (2024)

In the weeks leading up to my 2014 Australian backpacking trip, I received advice from lots of people; do this, do that, go here, etc. The one place everyone agreed upon though, the one destination that I could in no way skip was Melbourne.

According to everyone who had been there – or even within 1000 miles of it – Melbourne is one of the coolest cities in the world.

Fast forward 3 months and I’m about to disembark from a plane at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport for the purpose of a small vacation from my new home, Adelaide. What would I find in this supposed cornucopia of cafes, this haven for all things hipster, this department for the debaucherous and drunken? Well, I ended finding all of those actually.

Melbourne is, in fact, the trendiest and most culturally impressive city in all of Australia. I dined, I drank, I died and was reborn a massive footie fan in the MCG. Backpacking in Melbourne was absolutely one of the highlights of my entire 7 month sabbatical in Australia.

Being an Australian city though, backpacking in Melbourne isn’t exactly a cheap affair. Food, drink, hostels, and everything else is quite expensive here. If you’re sucked into the vortex of vices that is Melbourne as well, your funds are going to dry up quick.

Fear not my broke backpackers, I have seen the promised land and know how to do it on the cheap. With this Melbourne travel, you’ll have everything that you could need to experience the city at a good price.

We’ll cover topics ranging from “cheapest hostels in Melbourne” to “Melbourne daily costs.” Everything and then some is covered in this guide; with it, you’ll be more than prepared to go backpacking in this amazing city.

How Much does Backpacking Melbourne Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in melbourne, top things to do in melbourne, backpacking melbourne 3 day itinerary, backpacking melbourne travel tips and city guide.

Melbourne is one of the most expensive cities in one of the world’s most expensive countries. Backpackers and residents alike will pay exorbitant amounts of money for sometimes very basic accommodations.

For those that are backpacking Melbourne and the rest of Australia on a long-term on a working holiday visa, it isn’t unheard of to share a room and pay close to a grand a month.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t go visit Melbourne on a budget. Melbourne can be cheap so long as you follow the tips outlined in this guide. By limiting unnecessary expenses and having good spending habits, you’ll be able to afford Melbourne and still have a great time.

The average daily budget for Melbourne is around $75-$90 . Those numbers used to be higher but following Australia’s recent economic struggles, backpacking Melbourne has become a little more affordable.

You can even get by on less if you stick to the most stringent of backpacker tactics like Couchsurfing, cooking at home, and drinking outside of the bars.

The average hostel in Melbourne these days is around $25/night. Given the outstanding reputation of Australia’s hostels as well, this is actually a decent deal.

Most of your expenses will revolve around drinking, eating, and, perhaps, the occasional shopping trip. Alcohol in Australia is notoriously expensive and the food isn’t cheap either. Shopping in Melbourne, though some of the best in the world, is also costly.

Melbourne Daily Budget Breakdown

Below is a breakdown of the costs of travel in Melbourne for the average backpacker.

• Hostel Dormitory: $20-$35
• Basic room for two: $140
• AirBnB/temp apartment: $140
• Average cost of public transport: $6-$10
• City-Airport transfer: $5-$20
• Sandwich: $10-$12
• Beer at a bar: $8
• Bottle of wine from the market: $12
• Dinner for two: $50-$75

Melbourne Budget Backpacking Tips

There are always ways to save cash, and backpacking in Melbourne is no exception! With proper spending habits, you can stay in Melbourne without feeling screws tighten around your wallet.

Below is a list of tips for backpacking in Melbourne on the cheap. Follow these words of advice and you’ll find that your dollar goes much further.

• Always pre-fade before going out: Buying full-priced drinks at the bar is a great way to waste your money. Instead, buy booze at the store and drink with your friends at the hostel/their house/the park/anywhere besides the actual bar. Drink lots of store-bought wine; it’s freakin’ cheaper than water sometimes!
• Cook at home as often as possible: One of the most proven ways of saving money for backpackers; buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash.
• Take advantage of free public transport: Between the city’s Free Tram Zone and the City Circle Tram (Route 35) , those backpacking Melbourne can actually see many of the city’s top sights and not have to pay for transport!
• Eat/drink during happy hour: Many bars and cafes offer drink and meal specials during the quieter hours of the day (4pm-6pm). Some of these deals can be quite affordable; the locals use them!
• Get a job: Whether or not you have a working holiday visa there are plenty of opportunities to work in Melbourne. Many hostels will give you a free bed in exchange for a few hours of labor.
• Bargain shop: Buy vintage go to one of the many op-shops in Melbourne! Most are independently owned and actually use a bartering system as well. Never pay full price for a product unless you have no other choice.
• Do free shit: There are a ton of attractions in Melbourne that don’t charge you any sort of entrance fee! None of these are dull or boring either.
• Pack a travel water bottle  and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Melbourne with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Australia is famous for its amazing hostels and Melbourne has some of the country’s best ! Spread throughout the city, from the City Center to St Kilda, you’ll find the perfect place for you.

Many hostels offer discounts to long-term inhabitants. These deals are usually catered to those backpacking Australia long-term with a working holiday visa.

Staying for a longer period at one of these hostels could be an awesome experience as everyone really knows each other and the camaraderie is really fantastic.

Other working holidayers opt to stay in an apartment. Most backpackers can still only afford a shared room though because of Melbourne’s high prices. Check the local classifieds, like Gumtree , or check your hostel’s bulletin board – many backpackers start in a hostel and end up moving into their own place.

Another option is Melbourne’s amazing Airbnbs . They’re less expensive than hotels, and only charge a little bit more than hostels. With a bit of research and luck, you can even find a whole place to yourself without having to empty your bank account completely.

To save the most money, you can, of course, reach out to potential hosts via Couchsurfing. Australians are an extremely hospitable bunch and love to host unsuspecting visitors. Be sure to follow all the usual courtesies and rules of staying with a stranger though.

The cost of accommodation also depends on where you’re staying in Melbourne . The further out from the city center, the more affordable prices you’ll find.

With a Melbourne City Pass , you can experience the best of Melbourne at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

The Best Places to Stay in Melbourne

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Melbourne to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

The CBD is the centre of Melbourne. It’s the neighbourhood at the heart of the action and is home to Melbourne’s most famous and renowned sights, which is why the CBD is the best area in Melbourne to stay in for sightseeing and exploring.

South Melbourne

South Melbourne is an inner-city suburb that sits nestled between the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay. It is a charming and eclectic neighbourhood that is home to Victorian-era terrace homes and one of the oldest public markets in Melbourne.

Fitzroy is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Melbourne. It is situated northeast of the CBD and has long drawn hipsters, trendsetters, artists and creatives thanks to its many bookstores, galleries, independent boutiques and eclectic eateries.

Richmond is a cool inner city suburb located not far from the CBD. It was once a run-down district that underwent a significant period of redevelopment in the 1990s. Today, Richmond is one of the most popular and sought-after neighbourhoods in the city.

St Kilda is a historic suburb located in south-eastern Melbourne. It’s our number one choice for where to stay in Melbourne for families because it offers excellent access to beaches and the city, and there are plenty of seaside activities to enjoy.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Melbourne is literally filled with amazing places and things to do . To explore every single hotspot, you’d have to plan in quite some time in the city. To make the decision a bit easier, we’ve listed our favorite attractions below.

1. Visit the wineries of the Yarra Valley

Go wine tasting in Victoria’s premier wine region! Many of the wineries are only a short drive away from Melbourne and make great day trips.

2. Go hunting for street art

Melbourne has some of the greatest graffiti in the world! Go wandering among the many laneways and back alleys for a chance to some stunning works of street art.

3. Get lost in the laneways

The laneways contain more than just street art – here are some awesome hidden bars and cafes. No backpacking trip to Melbourne would be complete without a walkabout in one its many laneways.

4. Go to an AFL match

Melbournians are absolutely bonkers for Australian Rules Football. Attend a game at the MCG or Etihad Stadium for a chance to see this crazy game and the locals in their natural element.

5. People watch at Flinders Station and Federation Square

Flinders Station and nearby Federation Square are like the switchboards of the city – everyone and everything passes through these hubs during the day. Just chill here and watch them go by.

6. Pay a visit to the Shrine of Remembrance

Aside from being a gorgeous piece of neoclassical architecture, the Shrine of Remembrance is perhaps the most important memorial in Australia. Pay respects here and be sure to climb to the top for an awesome view.

7. Party in St Kilda

Those backpacking in Melbourne will have a blast partying in St Kilda! Here are some of the best backpacker bars in Melbourne, not to mention a nice beach to relax on.

8. Shop till ya drop

Melbourne is famous for its many shopping streets and districts. On one of these streets, you can find just about anything from elegant clothing to exotic paraphernalia to organic produce. Great examples include the Hawthorn district, Queen’s Market, and Melbourne Central Shopping Center.

9. Explore Melbourne’s outlying neighborhoods

Some of the best neighborhoods in Melbourne are located on the edges of the CBD. Visit the likes of Collingwood, Carlton, and Brighton for a taste of something different.

10. Enjoy the amazing cafe and bar culture

Melbourne is one of the best places to eat and drink in not only Australia but the entire world! Here you can have just about any type of food imaginable including Thai, Italian, French, and much, much more. Be sure to get a big dinner in as well as you’ll most likely be out all night drinking!

Looking for a little inspiration? Well here’s a sample itinerary for spending 3-4 days in Melbourne ! Perfect for when you’ve only got a weekend in Melbourne . Give it a look and use it for yourself if you like.

Day 1 in Melbourne: The CBD

On our first day backpacking in Melbourne, we knock out all of the city’s main attractions, which are conveniently located close to one another in the CBD (City Center). With the Free Tourist Tram covering most of the area, you won’t even have to walk much either!

Start your day at Flinders Street Station – this iconic, Edwardian-era building is one of the most well-known buildings in the city as well as its main transportation hub. No matter where you end up, you’ll always be able to get back here.

Before jumping on the tram, make the short walk over to Federation Square. This public space is full of ultra-modern and abstract architecture, not to mention some killer views of the skyline. Nearby is St. Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne’s most admired church, and the ACMI, whose Screen World’s exhibit is one of the top free things to do in Melbourne.

Also be sure to check Hosier Lane across from Federation – this is one of the best places to see Melbourne’s famous street art.

From here, hop on the Free Tourist Tram and head counterclockwise. Moving (roughly) in a circle, you’ll pass by Cook’s Cottage, the Fitzroy Gardens, and Parliament House before ending up at the Royal Exhibition Building. This ornate structure is one of Melbourne’s most beautiful landmarks and its gardens are a great place to lounge.

Back on the tram, start heading west. Along the way, you’ll see the State Library of Victoria, Queen Victoria Market – the largest outdoor market in the southern hemisphere – and the Flagstaff Gardens. Upon arriving at the hallowed Etihad Stadium, you’ll begin the final leg back to Flinders Street Station.

After finishing the tram loop, be sure to actually walk inside the CBD. Here are the city’s famous laneways, where you’ll find some awesome street art as well as some cool cafes and bars. Grabbing a drink at one of the many watering holes found along AC/DC Lane, Centre Place, and Degraves Street is a great way to end the day.

Day 2 in Melbourne: The Hoods

On day 2 of backpacking Melbourne, we explore the satellite neighborhoods to the north of the CBD. These include Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Hawthorn , and Richmond .

There are no large attractions in these neighborhoods but what they lack in landmarks they more than make up for with charm. The best way to experience these areas is to just wander around.

Carlton is the westernmost of these neighborhoods and our first stop. Historically, Carlton has been the home of Melbourne’s largest Italian population – it is thusly the best place to find good coffee and Italian food. The University of Melbourne is also here so there’s a large and lively student population present.

Moving east we head to Fitzroy and Collingwood next, these closely-knit neighborhoods are where all the hipsters and bohemians like to hang out. Due to their presence, there is a great amount of street art and galleries in these neighborhoods as well as lots of live music.

At night, these neighborhoods host some of the best nightlife in Melbourne, complete with cheap drinks and rowdy performances. Further south is the Hawthorn district, which is one of the main shopping areas of Melbourne. Here, you can find just about anything from high fashion to ridiculous bobbles.

If you’re a diehard shopper, you can spend an entire day visiting all of the stores in Hawthorne – for now though, let’s just make it a stopover.

Finally, you’ll end the day in the Richmond district. The shopping here is also fine as are the cafes and bars. Richmond hosts a large array of breweries as well.

The most important attraction in Richmond though is probably the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground). The MCG is the largest stadium in the city and, for a people that worship sports so much, this is their church.

Day 3 in Melbourne: The Beach

You can’t visit Melbourne and not the beach at least once. On our possibly final day of backpacking in Melbourne, we head south towards Southbank, South Yarra, St Kilda and Brighton . Along this route, we’ll see some of the city’s most impressive buildings as well as its only (real) beaches.

Heading south from the CBD, we’ll stop first in Southbank, which is home to several of Melbourne’s most impressive sights. While walking, you’ll notice the Eureka Tower dominating the skyline as well as the National Gallery of Victoria.

The most significant landmark in the area though is the exalted Shrine of Remembrance. The Shrine, a brilliant example of neoclassical architecture, and pays tribute to the Australian soldiers who participated in WWI. Be sure to climb to the top of the shrine for some excellent views of the city.

Moving on, we make our way to South Yarra and St Kilda. South Yarra is one of the most affluent areas of Melbourne and has some of the poshest bars in the entire city. For broke backpackers though, nearby Albert Park is the more lovely and cheaper attraction.

St Kilda is Melbourne’s premier beachside neighborhood. Many compare this district to a borough of Sydney and even go so far as to call it a “Little Sydney.”

Expect lots of beachy attractions here like the Palais Theater, Luna Park, and, of course, the sand and surf itself. Some of Melbourne’s best backpacker bars are in this part of town as well.

Wrapping up our third day of backpacking in Melbourne, we spend the late afternoon in Brighton. Here are some of the loveliest and most peaceful residences in the city.

Walking amongst these mini-mansions and elegant Victorian houses makes for a very relaxing afternoon. Be sure to the visit the famous, multi-colored Brighton Bath Houses as well, which are among the city’s most loved landmarks.

Optional Day 4 in Melbourne: The Yarra Valley

Have an extra day in Melbourne?! Then take the train out to the Yarra Valley and go wine tasting! Here are some of the best vintages and varietals in all of Australia not to mention some gorgeous countryside.

To get to Yarra by public transit, you’ll have to catch the train to Lilydale and then connect with the 685 bus. Upon arriving in the Yarra Valley, the best way to get around is by bike – there are lots of paths here and none are too strenuous.

The wine in the Yarra is fantastic. Chardonnays, sparkling, and Pinot Noirs are the most well-regarded grapes here.

Off the Beaten Path in Melbourne

Wanna get out of the city? My best advice is to rent a car and just start driving; either to some beachside community or to the more rugged northern reaches of Victoria. Go somewhere less visited by tourists for a real taste of the state of Victoria.

Below are a few suggestions for the best daytrips from Melbourne.

Phillip Island

One of the most popular day trips from Melbourne, this idyllic island is home to some amazing coastline as well as an adorable penguin colony! Every night around sunset, the colony walks from the sea to their nests on the mainland, a mini-migration known locally as the “penguin parade.” For surfers, Phillip Island is also one of the best and most reliable places to catch some waves.

Bendigo is a small and lavish city located northwest of Melbourne. Having benefited from the great Australian Gold Rush, Bendigo is full of elegant buildings, built with wealthy and royal sensibilities.

There are a number of wineries surrounding the city that produces some nice, bold reds. Several music festivals, like Groovin’ the Moo and the Bendigo Blues and Roots festival go down here as well.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is perhaps the most famous Victoria landmarks outside of Melbourne. This stunning section of coastline, located southwest of Melbourne, is most known for its towering cliffs and sea stacks.

It’s one of the best road trips in Victoria , so we highly recommend renting a car and going for a little trip along this route. Be sure to see the Twelve Apostles, Loch Arch Gorge, and the Great Otway National Park, which is located to the north of the Great Ocean Road.

The Grampians are a rugged section of the Great Dividing Range that serve as one of the best outdoor getaways near Melbourne. There are plenty of things to do in The Grampians , but hiking and rock climbing here are among the best in Victoria.

In addition to these adventurous activities, the Grampians also host some of the best-preserved Aboriginal art in all of Australia!

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

At the southernmost tip of Victoria – and thus the southernmost tip of mainland Australia – is some of the finest coastline in the nation. Superlative stretches of sand, like Norman Beach and Squeaky Beach – the latter is named for the sound the sand makes when you walk on it – are among the top reasons to visit this paradise.

The Promontory, one of Australia’s best-known national parks , is also home to some of Australia’s most beloved creatures like wallabies, wombats, and kangaroos. Camping is the best way to stay here.

Best Walks in Melbourne

For a good mix of urban hikes, check out these top 5 walks around Melbourne:

Capital City Trail: Perhaps Melbourne’s most loved walking track is this 30 km hike that will take you by many of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks including the MCG, Southbank, the Yarra River, and Docklands.

Bayside Coastal Art Trail: A 17 km walk from Brighton to Beaumaris, it’s an informative and interesting track that features over 90 interpretive signs that illustrate local art and culture as well as great views of the coast.

Kokoda Memorial Walk: The Walk of 1000 Steps. This 5 km track through the woods is meant to recreate the conditions of Australian soldiers in Papua-New Guinea. It includes informative plaques and exposes.

Albert Park Lake: One of Melbourne’s prettiest and largest parks. Great views of the CBD and lots of recreational facilities.

Merri Creek Trail: A 21 km bucolic track that runs along the Yarra River. It can be connected with the Capital City Trail and greater Yarra River Trail.

Below are my best Melbourne travel tips, including how to travel around Melbourne, a guide to the food and coffee culture, and the best time of year to visit Melbourne.

Best Time of Year to Visit Melbourne

The weather in Melbourne is famously unpredictable; many Melbournians like to joke about how the city receives four seasons in one day. Miss the summer sun? Just wait 5 minutes. Yearning for the rain? That’ll be back in another 5 minutes, trust me.

Erratic behavior aside, Melbourne actually benefits from a wonderfully temperate climate. There are four distinct climates; extreme weather is very infrequently. In my opinion, Melbourne can be visited at any time of the year depending on what you want to do .

Summers (December-February) in Melbourne are generally warm. Rain is still common in the summer, sometimes in bucketfuls. Melbourne does suffer from an intense heat wave or two during this time, lasting between 2 and 3 days.

Instances of flooding have occurred during this time in the past. Summers are still the busiest season in Melbourne and so prices will be at their highest.

Winters (June-August) are cool but not cold in Melbourne. Rain consistently falls and fog is very common during this time. Snow occurs in the hills surrounding the city, but is practically unheard of in the CBD. Visiting Melbourne during the winter means that you can go skiing in Alpine National Park too!

Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) are generally the best times to visit Melbourne. Spring is the wettest time of the year and everything is lush during this time. Autumn is more varied with any type of weather possible. The best part about these seasons is that the tourists will begin to dry up and prices will be lower.

Get in and out of Melbourne

There are several ways of getting in and out of Melbourne by land, sea, and air.

If you’re traveling by bus or your own vehicle, there are several roads leading to Melbourne. To the east, the A1 runs all the way up the South Pacific Coast to Sydney and beyond. North, there are several highways leading to the Australian countryside, other major cities like Sydney, and just general fuck-all nowhere. West, the A1 continues all the way to Adelaide and South Australia – along this route you’ll find the famous Great Ocean Road.

Being Australia though, all roads will be very long and somewhat arduous. From Melbourne, it’s 11 hours to Sydney and 9 hours to Adelaide – that 11-hour drive to Sydney isn’t even on the scenic A1, but on the more efficient and less pretty A/M41. By all means, road trip across Australia – it’s one of the best things to do in Australia – but don’t expect it to be a short journey.

Need help deciding between Sydney or Melbourne ? Check out our helpful guide.

Most who want to go backpacking in Melbourne opt to fly into the city. Both of Melbourne’s airports – Tullamarine and Avalon – are serviced by multiple airlines and ticket prices can be quite affordable at times. Note that most international flights fly into Tullamarine while domestics usually land in Avalon.

Victoria has an extensive rail system with several operators covering dozens of routes. All rail lines lead back to Melbourne – the hub of the state – so it should always be easy to find your way back. Check out V/Line for regional train travel in Victoria.

You can actually catch a ferry across the Bass Strait to Tasmania! The trip takes approximately 10 hours and drops you off in Davenport. Tickets can be pricey – $100 for the most basic type of seat – but for nautical nuts, this is a great journey.

When you’re ready to travel to Melbourne, forgo buying tickets at the station and book them online instead! You can now book transport in advance for most of Asia using 12Go and doing so can really save you some stress (and maybe money, too).

It only takes 2 minutes!  Book your transport on 12Go now  and guarantee your seat easily.

How to get around Melbourne

Melbourne has a fantastic public transport system that allows visitors and residents alike to get around the city hassle-free. Between the many buses, trains, trams, and alternative forms of transport, those backpacking Melbourne should have little problem navigating the city.

First and foremost, those backpacking Melbourne have to take advantage of the City Circle Tram and the Free Tram Zone, both of which are free to use. Many of the city’s top attractions are located either within or near these zones, meaning you can see the best of Melbourne without paying for a ride!

If you find yourself in a situation where you have to pay for a ticket, you’ll have to use a myki card . Paper tickets are no longer dispensed on Melbournian public transport. You can buy a myki card at most machines and stalls for 6 AUD ($4.50). To use a myki card, simply make sure you have credit on the card – you can charge it at machines – and tap the card to a reader upon entering public transport.

Myki rates are 4.30 AUD ($3) for two hours and 8.60 AUD ($6.50) for a full day within a single zone. Melbourne is broken down into several zones and if you cross any one of them with public transport, you’ll have to pay a variable amount as opposed to a flat rate.

You cannot sell or return your card to the city once you have finished with it. Best thing to do then is drop it off in a myki donation box located either in the station or in your hostel.

Walking is, of course, the most reliable and cheapest form of transport and Melbourne is a very pedestrian-friendly city. Try renting a push bike as well while backpacking in Melbourne – there are several dedicated bike lanes located throughout the city.

Long Distance Travel from Melbourne

Hey guys, guess what? This is Australia; everything is a long ways away! 10 hours is a day trip in Australian terms! If you’re planning on traveling across this nation, you’ll have to really be prepared for some long travel times.

From Melbourne, you can, of course, catch a long distance bus or train to the likes of Darwin, Perth, and Brisbane. Travel times will be in measured in days as opposed to hours for these locations though. Some of Australia’s greatest train rides, including the Ghan , are along these routes though.

Flying really is your best option when it comes to long-distance travel in Australia. The locals have come to rely heavily upon airline travel as well, so prices have become quite reasonable. Trust me: unless you’re road tripping and have time on your hands, you want to fly in Australia.

On that note, if you do in fact have the luxury of time on your hands, you must go on a road trip in Australia! It is one of the best and most popular ways to experience the country. Whether you trip from Melbourne to Adelaide or head back east, Australian road trips are almost unbeatable.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Safety in Melbourne

Australia is one the safest countries in the world, a place where you’re more likely to be the unfortunate victim of a kangaroo beating than a stabbing or violent mugging. Take away the wilderness aspect of your journey and you’re going to be pretty safe while backpacking in Melbourne.

Let’s be honest, if you’re really looking for some trouble, just go pissed drunk in one of the many pubs; the odds of you getting in a fight increase substantially at this point. Bar fights and general hooliganism are quite common in Melbourne, so the police presence is quite high at night.

If you should be apprehended by the police and still have the capacity to remember this guide’s suggestions, just calm down and don’t cause any more trouble; best case they’ll sit you down and make you take a breather; worst case you’ll get thrown in the drunk tank for the night.

Melbourne’s trams can be quite dangerous to the unsuspecting pedestrian. These steel behemoths are extremely large and travel surprisingly quickly, two facts that the city council likes to remind Melbournians. Be sure to look both ways and only use official crossings when crossing tram tracks.

Travel Insurance for Melbourne

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

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.

Melbourne Accommodation Travel Hacks

Let’s face it, sometimes we all need to stay in a hostel. Hostels are great for meeting fellow travelers and just having space where you can do your thing at your own pace.

Backpacker accommodation in Melbourne is far from cheap, however. I will just say the prices are staggering once you learn what they are. So, stay at a hostel for a night or two and consider your other options:

Couchsurf!: If you manage to land a Couchsurfing spot in Melbourne, you will have successfully eliminated your biggest cost: accommodation. I’ll be honest with you. Couchsurfing is more popular than ever before.

I’ve been told Couchsurfing hosts in Melbourne can receive up to 50+ requests PER DAY! Point being, whilst I would not explicitly count on Couchsurfing in Melbourne, I would sure give it an honest go. Make sure you send a very convincing message short of selling your body and your soul.

Tap into your backpacker network: If you have done any sort of backpacking before, odds are you know someone who knows someone from Australia. Australians love to go backpacking! Before you begin your Melbourne backpacking trip, I suggest you put your feelers out there and ask your network of friends if they know of someone whom you can crash with for a night or two.

This might sound far-fetched, but honestly, this has helped me out multiple times in Melbourne as well as in other cities. As it turns out, my friend of a friend host was awesome and we are still friends! Ultimately, if you can find a balance between a hostel night and a free night, you will have more cash beer and coffee.

Eating and Drinking in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the world’s leading gastronomic destinations, not to mention the best place to grab a bite in all of Australia. The dining scene here is absolutely astounding, offering some of the best Asian food that you can find outside of the actual continent in addition to some of the best international food period.

Those backpacking Melbourne have to take some time out of their itinerary and budget for eating out in this city.

Spread throughout the city, there are many cafes and pubs offering thirsty travelers a brief respite or jolt of energy. The coffee in Melbourne (and Australia as a whole actually) is high-quality thanks in part to the prominent Italian immigrant population.

You can find good food and drinks just about anywhere in Melbourne, though the CBD will have the most culinary options. Below is a brief breakdown of the most popular types of food in Melbourne and where to generally find them.

Australian: everywhere

Chinese: Chinatown – predominantly Cantonese.

Thai: Just about everywhere.

Indonesian/Malay: CBD, Flemington, Southbank

Vietnamese: Richmond, Footscray

Japanese: CBD, Collingwood – lots of sushi and traditional kuni.

Italian: Carlton

Greek: CBD/Greek Precinct

French: CBD, Collingwood, South Yarra

Turkish: CBD, St. Kilda

Lebanese/Arab: Brunswick, Coburg

Indian: CBD

African: Footscray, Fitzroy – mostly of the Ethiopian variety.

Jewish: St. Kilda, Caulfield

Spanish: CBD, Fitzroy

All of these cuisines and many, many more are all available to try in Melbourne! Each one is sure to impress you with its high quality and authenticity.

Nightlife in Melbourne

Melbourne is perhaps the best place to party in Australia! This city caters to nearly every type of person, be them binge drinker, raver, kickbacker or miscreant. With public transport that runs 24/7 and zero alcohol curfew, it’s never been easier to have a good time in Melbourne!

Melbournians pride themselves upon their city’s nightlife. Nowhere else in Australia can one stay out until 7 am and drink throughout the entire night. Whereas Sydney succeeded (somewhat) in instituting a controversial 2 am bar lockout, Melbourne quickly abandoned the idea. No wonder everyone is moving there!

Each district of Melbourne offers a different kind of after-hours experience. The CBD is famous for its exciting mix of bars found in the lowest laneways as well as the highest towers.

When walking around this part of town, you’ll stumble upon tiny speakeasy-like haunts in the dusty corners of laneways – my favorite is Hell’s Kitchen . After wandering the alleys, ascend to a rooftop bar , like the eponymous Rooftop Bar , to soak in the suds and views.

Head to Southbank for a drink next to the lazy Yarra River. As befitting of a laid-back afternoon, there are lots of beer halls, like the Hophaus and Belgian Beer Cafe , around here.

The hipster neighborhoods of Collingwood and Fitzroy are – as befitting for a bohemian – cheaper, more relaxed, and usually full of musicians. Walk up and down Smith Street for a cheap domestic pint and some live music. Nearby Carlton, being an Italian neighborhood, is full of little cafes, complete with outdoor tables and chairs.

Visit chique South Yarra and Prahran for a more upscale night out. This is a very rich part of town so you’ll have to be dressed to the nines and willing to spend a lot. The Emerson is one of the most lavish bars in this area.

Finally, no party is complete without a trip to debaucherous St. Kilda. This beachside suburb is like a little Sydney inside of Melbourne. There’s a little bit of everything here, but travelers will feel exceptionally welcome at one of the many backpacker bars i.e. Red Eye Bar .

Books to Read while Traveling in Melbourne

• The Mystery of the Hansom Cab – A mystery novel centered around a murder victim found in a hansom cab. Explores social stratification in Melbourne along the way. One of Australia’s most popular novels.
• On the Beach – Civilization is in ruins following a disastrous nuclear World War III. A band of survivors, hiding in South Australia, receive a message from the Pacific Northwest of America and set off in search of life. One of the greatest post-apocalyptic novels ever.
• Monkey Grip – A mother struggles with raising her daughter, dealing with her heroin-addicted partner, and living in Melbourne all at once. A classic of Australian literature.
• The Slap – The novel that inspired the recent TV show of the same name. A suburban family man slaps a neighbors child who is misbehaving at a BBQ. The incident sends shockwaves through the community that causes many to question their beliefs.
• Lonely Planet Melbourne and Victoria –  It’s sometimes worth traveling with a guidebook. Despite Lonely Planet’s history of selling out and writing about places they haven’t been to, they’ve done a good job with Melbourne.

Make Money Online Whilst Backpacking Melbourne

Traveling in Melbourne or Australia long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the city?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Making Money…Not Online

If Teaching English isn’t really your thing, perhaps a working holiday or internship with Global Work and Travel may be another viable option for makin’ that sweet moolah. They offer opportunities in major cities throughout Australia, including Melbourne. They’ll support you throughout the entire process; from VISA guidance to finding you the perfect placement. You’ve got to be between the ages of 18 to 35 though…apologies if this isn’t you!

Being a responsible backpacker in Melbourne

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Backpacking in Melbourne will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times—as the Aussies tend to do. Most backpacking trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

There are some things that will put you in the category of a straight up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie backpacker mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up.

Show your fellow travelers (and locals) respect whilst backpacking in Melbourne and anywhere else for that matter!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Hello Ralph, this is a gorgeous piece of content and it will help lot of people like me who have plans to travel Melbourne soon. I have bookmarked it and will make sure to consider most of the points while backpacking to Melbourne.

Thanks for sharing this.

Glad you liked it! Happy trip and please share your experiences on the page when you return 🙂

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Top 5 4X4 Trips less than 100km from Melbourne

With Victoria once again coming out of lockdown we thought it a great time to take a look at the Top 5 4X4 Trips less than 100km from Melbourne.

Unsealed 4X4 freelancer Gary Tischer reckons Brisbane is ‘the best place to live if your passion is heading bush in your 4WD’. Well, I beg to differ. In fact, I believe that Melbourne is the mecca for the best four-wheel driving tracks, so here are the Top 5 4X4 Trips less than 100km from the metropolis they call Melbourne, where the bureaucrats sip their lattés and close our tracks with their poison pens. We have tracks that are scarily steep, covered in sticky black mud, slippery red clay and diff-cracking rocks, and water crossings that can turn your fan blades into radiator-slashing weapons. If you haven’t discovered what’s in your own backyard, it’s time you did before all the tracks are closed.

MOUNT DISAPPOINTMENT (@ 54km as the crow flies)

When Hume and Hovell arrived at Mount Disappointment, they expected to see Port Phillip Bay. They couldn’t (due to tall trees), so they named the landmark after how they felt. The State Forest is disappointing in name only and is home to some great off-road driving on numerous 4X4 and forest tracks. The best access is from Heathcote Junction via the Hume Freeway – get off at the Wandong-Kilmore exit (C279). North Mountain Road will take you into the heart of the State Park.

Mount Disappointment is ideal for a day trip, or even better, a weekend getaway. The best tracks are seasonally closed and good rains improve the look of Strath Creek Falls. There’s still plenty of evidence of the 2009 Black Saturday fires (especially along Board Road, where old growth trees have faded grey, killed by the heat of the fire). It’s a challenging drive up the rocky Phone Track from the junction with Phosphate Track; and Quarry Road isn’t for the faint-hearted.

There are a couple of campsites – Regular Camp and No.1 Camp (with pit toilets and tables) – but No.1 Camp is better suited to groups, caravans and camper trailers. Whilst you can’t drive to the summit, you can tackle the 3.5km return walk from the Blairs Hut picnic area.

YARRA STATE FOREST (@ 76km as the crow flies)

I learnt the demands of driving a 4X4 on the tracks of the Yarra State Forest near Warburton. A lot has changed since then, but there are still some awesome tracks just waiting to test you. The area is still used to harvest Mountain Ash, so be aware that you may meet log trucks along any of the forest roads and they have right-of-way.

To get there, take the Warburton Highway to Yarra Junction and then continue to Warburton or take a right and visit the old timber settlement of Powelltown. From here you can take several tracks back to Warburton. From this side you may also chance upon logging equipment from days gone by, and view the Ada Tree – a giant Mountain Ash estimated to be over 300-years old.

The challenge is to tackle Mississippi Track – an extremely steep track that leads from Starling Gap down to Big Pats Creek in East Warburton. In the dry it is a great drive. In the wet, the clay becomes slippery and dangerous. Having driven it in the wet, I can confirm it is a real butt-clencher. But the biggest danger would have to be the Drop Bears! I guarantee you, they are here!

WOMBAT STATE FOREST/LERDERDERG STATE PARK (@ 70km as the crow flies)

Gold lured people into the region before logging took over, with Blackwood a favourite for furniture makers. Now, Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Park are popular with four-wheel drivers. The tracks rate from easy to downright ludicrous. When it’s wet, the stakes are raised even higher.

There are several access points to Wombat – either via the Calder Highway to Woodend or the Western Highway to Blackwood. A lot of the tracks are old forest tracks from the logging days but what may start as a gravel road could turn into a tyre-spinning goat track.

A track that offers an amazing challenge is Ratcliffe Track that climbs from Firth Road up to Blue Gum Track. You will be tested, but then the reward is the magnificent views. Blue Gum Track is my favourite ‘finishing’ track, recommended to be driven north to south although you will come across vehicles heading in the opposite direction. Again, it’s the views that will take your breath away as you drive the ridgeline.

O’Briens Crossing has bugger-all camping, but Firth Park is larger and more suitable for camper trailers. Base yourself here and explore the region over a weekend. This’ll give you heaps of time to challenge your 4X4 skills. It will also give you time to enjoy a picnic at O’Briens or a top lunch at the Cosmopolitan in nearby Trentham.

TOOLANGI STATE FOREST (@ 65km as the crow flies)

Another of my old stomping grounds, Toolangi is close to being my favourite 4X4 region. With towering Mountain Ash, bog holes big enough to swallow your fourby and steep, off-camber tracks that will make your nose bleed, there is something for everyone at Toolangi.

The best jump-off point is off the Melba Highway 23km from Yarra Glen. You can turn right onto Rocky Track and drop your tyre pressures as you decide which line to take in climbing this epic route. Or the second option is to turn right onto Marginal Road 50m further along. The number of tracks that lead either from or to Marginal Road is more than I can count, so it is a good place to start.

Murrindini Reserve has a number of campgrounds ($7 per vehicle) and is a great place to base yourself. The weather can change quickly, so make sure you have recovery gear; you will need it.

BUNYIP STATE PARK (@ 66km as the crow flies)

Haven’t I had some fun at Bunyip State Park over the years? It has the stickiest orange clay, the deepest black mud and some places to really have some fun. This is my Number 1 4X4 destination close to Melbourne. Aboriginals believe that the ‘buneep’ or bunyip spirit lives in the waterways in the park, hence many Aboriginals and white settlers have avoided the area. Unfortunately, it hasn’t kept the poison pens away!

Access to Bunyip is from Gembrook in the east or Tynong North in the south. Once there, head to Black Snake Creek Road and find a track north to the powerlines. You can have hours of fun along some of the clay and rock sections here. Anderson Track will push you in the wet and Gentle Annie, Western and Bullock Link Tracks will have you reaching for the diff-locker switch.

While all 4X4 tracks are closed between mid-June and November, it still leaves heaps of time to really test out your vehicle, your driving skills and your recovery techniques.

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The Ultimate Four Day Melbourne Itinerary

Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Natalia

Melbourne is busy and vibrant with lots to offer and this 4 day itinerary covers the best of this city. From quirky laneways and street art to major attractions like the MCG and Eureka Tower, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. One of the big questions when planning your trip is ‘how many days to spend in Melbourne?’ – so we’ve come up with this itinerary to help out. We recommend spending at least 4 days in Melbourne, as this way you can see the best of the city and still have time for a day trip to explore the surrounding area. Find out what to see and do in the city with this four day Melbourne itinerary.

Make sure to check out our top 15 Melbourne travel tips , and if you’re planning to head to Sydney then read our four day Sydney itinerary for inspiration!

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Melbourne

Melbourne city apartment hotel.

For a comfortable mid-range option, the Melbourne City Apartment Hotel is a great option for a budget itinerary. Conveniently located in the heart of the CBD, it’s in an ideal location for exploring some of the city on foot!

There are a range of apartments on offer, from studios to one or two bedroom apartments. The hotel offers a lovely swimming pool for unwinding after a day exploring the city. Prices start from approximately $180 AUD per night for a studio apartment.

Click here to book a stay at the fabulous Melbourne City Apartment Hotel on Booking.com!

Treat Yourself!

Crown towers.

Immerse yourself in luxury at Crown Towers Melbourne, a swanky hotel overlooking the CBD from across the river in Southbank. Spacious and luxurious rooms offer views of the city or Port Phillip Bay, and offer a plasma screen TV, air-conditioning, a minibar, and much more!

All rooms are stylish and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the brilliant views. On top of that, the hotel offers a large heated indoor pool, a fully equipped fitness centre, a sauna and more! 

Prices at the Crown Towers hotel start from around $310 AUD per night for a deluxe room, but expect to be more for premium options or a luxurious suite.

Click here to book a stay at the extraordinary Crown Towers on Booking.com!

Voco Melbourne Central

Nestled in the heart of the city, Voco Melbourne Central is a luxurious hotel offering unmatched comfort and style. The prime location make it an excellent base, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby.

Elegantly furnished rooms offer a range of amenities, and the hotel also offers a brilliant rooftop bar and pool area. Rates start from around $250 AUD per night.

Click here to book your stay at the wonderful Voco Central hotel on Booking.com!

Alternatively, VRBO have some fantastic accommodation options if you want to rent a property instead of staying at a hotel! Click here to see the amazing options on the VRBO website!

Four Days Melbourne Itinerary

Fed square & flinders street station.

Kick off your four day Melbourne itinerary by visiting two of the city’s most iconic spots – Federation Square and Flinders Street Station. It makes sense to visit both places at the same time as they are located just across the road from each other.

Federation Square is a public square that is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and specialty stores, as well as the ACMI Museum (formerly Australian Centre for the Moving Image), the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia art gallery, and the Koorie Heritage Trust. On top of that, the square is regularly used for events – from food markets to sports screenings.

As you wander around Fed Square you will notice the deconstructivist architecture, which gives it a unique feel. There are plenty of spots to take a seat if you want to enjoy this iconic spot, or alternatively you can head into a museum or gallery to see what else the square has to offer.

When you’ve finished exploring Fed Square, make your way across the road to St Paul’s Cathedral to enjoy a brilliant view of F linders Street Station . From the corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Street you get arguably the best view of this beautifully-designed station.

The station is an impressive work of architecture, and the green copper dome and yellow facade make it one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. At the station entrance a series of clocks display upcoming train times, and these clocks have become a popular meeting place in the city.

There is no real need to go into the station to admire its beauty, as the exterior is more impressive than the interior. If you are taking a train to or from the city at any point then you may get to see the inside of the station then!

Melbourne Laneways

Melbourne is famous for its many cute and quirky laneways, home to street art, restaurants, cafes, bars, boutiques, and more. A number of these laneways are located nearby to Fed Square and Flinders Street Station – including Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane , and Union Lane.

Hosier Lane is the pick of the bunch, and is famously home to some of the best street art in Melbourne. The laneway’s graffiti-covered walls feature a range of small artworks, stencils, and large murals, and have helped make this spot one of the city’s must visit attractions.

Both local and international artists have contributed to the street art on Hosier Lane, and new artwork regularly appears overnight. Whilst you’re there it’s also worth popping down Rutledge Lane (found partway down Hosier Lane) as there is more street art to be found in this laneway too!

AC/DC Lane is another laneway worth visiting, especially for music fans. The lane is named in tribute to the iconic Australian rock band AC/DC, and here you will find street art of a variety of musicians (unsurprisingly including members of AC/DC!).

Union Lane, which can be found along Little Collins Street, is another laneway to visit if you’re looking for street art. The artwork here tends to be more graffiti based, but it’s worth checking out if you’re nearby.

There are several other laneways to discover around the area, so you can wander down side streets in search of a nice place for a drink or bite to eat. Some of the cafes and bars along the laneways can be overpriced, but at the very least take a walk through the various lanes to see what they’re all about!

Melbourne CBD

Next up on this 4 day Melbourne itinerary, it’s time to take a wander around the CBD (Central Business District) to discover the heart of the city. The best way to discover the CBD is to simply walk down the various streets, making sure to stop at a few points of interest along the way.

Two points of interest we recommend stopping at include Parliament House and the State Library . We also recommend wandering along Swanston Street, where you will often find a variety of street performers, as well as visiting the city’s Chinatown.

If you’re looking to go shopping then head along Bourke Street, where you’ll find a variety of different stores and shops. Alternatively, head into Melbourne Central for even more choice in terms of shops, as well as several restaurants and bars.

There are a couple of nice parks to visit just outside the CBD, namely Fitzroy Gardens and Flagstaff Gardens. If you’re feeling up for more walking then these are nice spots to discover away from the busy city streets, but if not then just stick to the CBD itself.

Although we do recommend discovering the CBD on foot, there is an alternative if you don’t want to do quite so much walking. Melbourne has a free city circle tram that takes you past some of the city’s most iconic spots, with audio commentary throughout your trip.

It’s a great way to see more of the city without having to do much walking, with the free city circle trams running approximately every 30 minutes in both a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction.

Visiting the arcades in Melbourne is a captivating experience, blending the charm of historical architecture with a vibrant contemporary culture. Stroll through the elegant Block Arcade or the bustling Royal Arcade to discover a world of boutique shops, quaint cafes, and unique artisanal stores. Each arcade, with its intricate designs also offers an array of delightful shopping and dining experiences.

Rooftop Bar

The first day of your Melbourne itinerary will have been pretty busy up until this point, so for the rest of the day it’s more easy going. It’s time to give your feet a rest and enjoy a drink or two at one of the city’s best rooftop bars – the imaginatively named ‘Rooftop Bar’.

Located on level 7 of Curtin House on Swanston Street, the bar offers lovely views from the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. It’s a popular hangout spot, and is a particularly great spot to visit on a sunny day – so fingers crossed you have good weather for your trip!

Rooftop Bar offer a large drink selection, including draught beer and cider, cocktails, wines, and spirits – so grab a drink or two and enjoy the views! The bar also serves food from its own Burger Shack, with a variety of burgers and sides available if you’re feeling peckish!

Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower

Finish the first day of your four day Melbourne itinerary by taking in more brilliant views from the Eureka Tower. The tower stands almost 300 metres tall, and on level 88 is the Melbourne skydeck – the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere. Considering the amazing views, it’s hardly surprising the skydeck is on our list of best views in Melbourne!

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide brilliant views of Melbourne including Flinders Street Station, the CBD, Yarra River, MCG, and much more! The Melbourne Skydeck also has a unique experience known as the Edge, which gives you more amazing views of the city from a suspended glass cube with see-through floors!

We suggest timing your visit so that you arrive around 30-60 minutes before sunset, so that way you get to see the city both before and after dark. On top of that, you will hopefully be treated to some lovely colours in the sky during sunset.

Melbourne Skydeck tickets cost just $30 AUD per person, which is great value for the incredible 360° views of the city. Tickets can be booked in advance via the Klook website, and we suggest booking ahead to secure your spot!

Click here to book tickets for the Eureka Tower Skydeck on the Klook website!

Botanic Gardens

Start day two of your four day Melbourne itinerary with a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens . Covering 38 hectares, these landscaped gardens are home to a wonderfully diverse range of plants, as well as some lovely views and tranquil lakes.

Spend some time wandering through the various walking trails of the botanic gardens, enjoying everything it has to offer. It’s such a pleasant and picturesque spot that it’s almost hard to believe it’s so close to Melbourne’s CBD.

We recommend spending at least an hour exploring the gardens, but you could easily spend more time here. If it’s a sunny day then it’s one of the nicest places to be in the city as you can enjoy the great weather surrounded by the beautiful gardens.

Shrine of Remembrance

After you’ve finished exploring the botanic gardens it’s only a short walk to your next stop – the Shrine of Remembrance. The shrine was originally built in honour of anyone from the state of Victoria who served in World War I, but now acts as a memorial for all Australians who have served in a war.

It’s one of the largest war memorials in Australia, and it’s an extremely interesting place to visit. There are several exhibits within the shrine itself, providing a wealth of information regarding Australia’s involvement in conflicts around the world.

One thing you won’t want to miss during your visit is the Shrine of Remembrance balcony. The balcony provides one of the best views of the Melbourne CBD, and so it’s well worth heading up to enjoy the lovely view.

There is no entrance fee to visit the Shrine of Remembrance, although donations are greatly appreciated. Guided tours run every hour from 10am to 4pm, and are available at a cost of $20 AUD per person. Click here to visit the official Shrine of Remembrance website to book your tour now!

Hamer Hall Balcony

Next up is a quick stop at Hamer Hall, which is around a 15-20 minute walk from the Shrine of Remembrance. The hall itself is an indoor concert venue with a seated capacity of nearly 2,500, with regular performances whether it be music, comedy, or talks.

Unless you’re heading to a performance, it’s probably somewhere you wouldn’t necessarily think to visit. It’s still worth including on your Melbourne itinerary though, as from the outside balcony you get a brilliant up-close view of the CBD.

The Hamer Hall balcony is easy to access from St Kilda Road, and is completely free to visit. Head up the stairs to the balcony and enjoy a great view of Flinders Street Station and the CBD from across the Yarra.

Spend the remainder of your day exploring Southbank – the inner-city suburb just across the Yarra River from the CBD. One of the nicest things to do here is simply wander along the riverside promenade.

As you wander along the Southbank promenade you get some lovely close-up views of the CBD. There are several bars and restaurants in the area too, so it’s a nice place to relax and enjoy some dinner or drinks.

Other spots you may want to visit during your time in Southbank include the National Gallery of Victoria , the Crown Casino, and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. If the weather is good though, definitely make the time for a stroll along the promenade!

The third day of your four day Melbourne itinerary starts with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic attractions – the Melbourne Cricket Ground . Known as the MCG, or simply ‘the G’ to locals, its capacity of just over 100,000 people makes it the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.

Located just outside the CBD in Richmond’s Yarra Park, the stadium can be seen from various points across the city. It’s nice to wander through Yarra Park so that you can see statues commemorating famous Aussie rules footballers, cricketers, and athletes, as you approach the stadium.

If you happen to be visiting when there is a sports match at the MCG, we recommend trying to get tickets. It can be hard to get tickets for some events, but for some cricket or Aussie rules football matches it can be easier than you might think to get a ticket!

Regardless of whether you’re able to go to see a match, it’s well worth taking the MCG stadium tour. It’s a unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.

Tours of the MCG have a number of highlights including the player changing rooms, pitchside access, the MCG Tapestry, panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline from the Ponsford Stand, and much more! The tours last for around 75 minutes, during which a knowledgeable guide will provide you with a wealth of information regarding the stadium’s history.

Stadium tours cost just $30 AUD per person, and can be booked online in advance through Get Your Guide. We strongly recommend booking in advance to guarantee your spot, and to ensure you can visit on your preferred date and time!

Click here to book an amazing tour of the MCG through Get Your Guide!

If you want a little something extra on top of your tour then there is also the option to visit the Australian Sports Museum. The museum is located in the MCG itself, and has a number of immersive and interactive exhibits. Get Your Guide offer a combined ticket for an MCG tour and visit to the Australian Sports Museum for just $40 AUD per person.

Click here to book an MCG tour with access to the Australian Sports Museum through Get Your Guide!

Next up it’s time to discover one of Melbourne’s trendiest suburbs – Fitzroy. It’s the city’s oldest suburb and is somewhat of a cultural hub, home to galleries, rooftop bars, cute coffee shops, and more.

Fitzroy’s thriving arts scene and trendy bars make it one of the city’s most popular suburbs, particularly with hipsters and young professionals. There are plenty of great restaurant and bar choices along Brunswick Street – the suburb’s main street.

One spot you won’t want to miss is Naked for Satan – a popular drinking spot due to its impressive rooftop bar. It’s a great spot to enjoy some drinks whilst soaking in a lovely view of the Melbourne skyline.

Take a wander through the suburb, firstly along Brunswick Street and then along Gertrude Street, Smith Street, and wherever else your feet take you!

Queen Victoria Market

Your next stop is the iconic Queen Victoria Market – a lovely open air market that has been in operation since 1878. It’s the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere, hosting over 600 small businesses selling a range of goods and produce including food, coffee, souvenirs, clothing, and much more!

Spend some time wandering through the market and enjoying the impressive range of stalls and shops on offer. Make sure to visit String Bean Alley, where you will find some of the market’s best independent stalls and shops.

One of the best ways to discover the Queen Vic Market is on a foodie tour, which includes tastings of some of the market’s best produce. Tastings vary day to day but may include oysters, grilled kangaroo, pickled octopus, fresh dolmades, olives, and hot jam doughnuts.

Foodie tours of the Queen Vic Market last for two hours and cost just $99 AUD per person, with all of the tastings included in that price. Tours can be booked in advance on the Viator website, but you may need to alter your Melbourne itinerary slightly to fit it in as tours only run at 10am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Click here to book a wonderful foodie tour of the Queen Vic Market on the Viator website!

It’s important to note that the Queen Vic Market is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. During the summer there is a night market that runs from 5-10pm on a Wednesday with a range of street food, live entertainment, bars, specialty shops and more.

Finish off the penultimate day of your four day Melbourne itinerary with a trip to St Kilda. This beachfront suburb is located just south of the city, and is a popular hangout spot for both locals and tourists.

There should be enough time left in the day for you to take a trip to St Kilda Beach, where you can soak up the sun or even take a little dip in the sea. Alternatively, follow the bay trail along the beachfront if you don’t fancy spending time on the beach itself.

One thing you won’t want to miss in St Kilda is the chance to see the area’s famous resident penguins. Every night hundreds of penguins can be seen from the St Kilda Pier and Breakwater just after sunset.

Seeing the penguins is completely free and is bound to be a highlight of your Melbourne itinerary. Unfortunately though, the pier is currently closed due to redevelopment works and isn’t expected to re-open until mid 2024 – so it’s hard to see the penguins again until these works are finished.

Aside from the above, there are several nice restaurants and bars in the area for you to grab dinner or drinks. St Kilda is also home to Luna Park, an amusement park which originally opened in 1912, which can be a fun place to visit if you have a spare few hours!

Day trip/beach day

The final day of your Melbourne itinerary is best spent on a day trip somewhere in the state of Victoria. If you want to keep it low key then you can head to St Kilda for a beach day, but if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous then you have the choice of some great day trips.

We’ve covered some of the best day trip options below, to help give you an idea of what you think you’d most like to do. If you don’t fancy joining a group tour then we recommend renting a car and planning your own day trip to one of the spots below. Click here to find great deals on renting a car for a day trip!

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the best day trips from Melbourne thanks to its stunning beaches, beautiful coastal views, lush rainforest, and much more. It’s a great addition to your Melbourne itinerary, and if you have the time it’s worth considering hiring a campervan and spending a few days exploring at a slightly slower pace.

Hiring a campervan means you have more say in where you stop along the way, as day trips have a lot to squeeze in. Check out our list of the best lookouts on the Great Ocean Road for ideas of the best spots to visit, and if you have an extra day then we recommend following our 2 day Great Ocean Road trip itinerary!

If you do only have one day though, Get Your Guide offer an amazing day trip that covers many of the Great Ocean Road’s highlights over the course of 13 hours. These day trips include a guided rainforest walk, as well as visits to the famous 12 Apostles (a collection of limestone stacks rising up from the sea), Apollo Bay, Torquay Surf Beach, and a number of brilliant viewpoints.

With some luck you will also have the chance to see wild koalas in their natural habitat, as well as some impressive birdlife. Tours cost just $133 AUD per person, which includes hotel pick up and drop off!

Click here to book an unforgettable Great Ocean Road day trip through Get Your Guide!

Phillip Island

Another popular day trip is to Phillip Island to enjoy beautiful coastal scenery and the famous Penguin Parade. Every night there is a large gathering of little penguins that come to shore and make their way back to their burrows, and it’s a remarkable experience to get close to so many penguins!

Get Your Guide offer a wonderful day trip to Phillip Island, which includes entry to the Penguin Parade, a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve, Woolamai Beach, and more! The Koala Conservation Centre care for and rehabilitate injured koalas, particularly those affected by wildfires, and if you’re lucky you can spot a few koalas as you walk through the reserve.

On top of the above, you will enjoy fantastic scenery of Phillip Island throughout your guided trip. Tours cost just $165 AUD per person, and depart from outside the Immigration Museum in Melbourne’s CBD.

Click here to book an amazing wildlife trip to Phillip Island via Get Your Guide!

Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Experience

If you’re a wine enthusiast then perhaps the best option is to spend your day on a Yarra Valley wine tasting experience. You will have the chance to visit some of the best wineries in the state of Victoria whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Yarra Valley.

Over the course of the day you will visit four premium wineries, with tutored tastings from your guide at each stop. The exact wineries you visit may vary depending on the day, but generally the trip will visit Greenstone Vineyards, Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa Winery, Yering Farm Wines, and Soumah of Yarra Valley winery.

An informative guide helps make the trip a special experience, providing a wealth of information about the wines as well as the area. Throughout the day you will take in some lovely scenery both from the vineyards themselves and whilst travelling through the Yarra Valley.

Tours can be booked in advance through Get Your Guide for just $165 AUD per person, which includes tastings at all four wineries and lunch at one of the wineries. These tours are extremely popular and can often sell out, so make sure to book in advance to secure your spot!

Click here to book a brilliant wine tasting experience in the Yarra Valley on the Get Your Guide website!

Grampians National Park

Another great option for nature lovers is a day trip to the beautiful Grampians National Park. The park boasts stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and gorges, and is home to some impressive native wildlife including kangaroos.

Highlights of the Grampians National Park include the incredible panoramic views from Reeds Lookout, the high rising rock walls of the Grand Canyon, Mackenzie Falls, and Silverband Falls. If that’s not enough, the park is home to some impressive birdlife including emus, parrots, eagles, kites, and more!

Get Your Guide offer a great value day trip from Melbourne to the Grampians National Park, including all of the above and more! Tours cost just $145 AUD per person, for a 13 hour trip filled with spectacular nature!

Click here to book an amazing day trip to the Grampians National Park on Get Your Guide’s website!

If you’re planning a trip up to Queensland at any point then make sure to check out our Brisbane itinerary and our 3 day Cairns itinerary for inspiration!

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

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4 Days in Melbourne: The Ultimate Melbourne Itinerary

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria. It is also a major business and culture centre in Australia. As one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne offers one of the best food, culture, art, and scenic experiences in Australia.

Melbourne offers a great selection of attractions to visit. If you are only visiting Melbourne CBD, it may take as little as only 1-day to visit its essential CBD attractions. However, for the best Melbourne experience, you will need at least 4-day to explore its CBD and surrounding suburbs.

In this article, I have put together a detailed 4-day itinerary for visiting Melbourne for the first time. Information on how to get around Melbourne & the best place to stay in Melbourne is also provided for your convenience.

How to Get Around Melbourne

Melbourne has a great public transport system, with trains, trams, and buses. This expansive public transport system can take you to most of Melbourne’s attractions in a decent time frame. If you are only exploring Melbourne CBD, you can also take advantage of Melbourne CBD’s free tram zone , which is very convenient and can save you lots of unnecessary walks.

You can also drive around Melbourne in a private vehicle. However, from my experience, it can be difficult to drive around Melbourne when you are not familiar with the roads. This is especially true during peak hours.

In addition, there are toll roads around Melbourne. The costs of these toll roads can add up quickly, and I have once scored myself over AUD 30 toll in one day (accidentally) during a visit to Melbourne.

Parkings are also very costly in Melbourne. Finding a free carpark around Melbourne CBD and popular Melbourne attractions can be near impossible.

Therefore, public transport services are the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around Melbourne, especially in Melbourne CBD and the inner suburbs. If you do not wish to use public transport, ride-share services, such as Uber and Didi, may be a better option.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

There is a huge selection of accommodations in Melbourne, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels.

Day 1: Melbourne CBD

For the first day of this 4-Day Melbourne visit, we are going to explore Melbourne CBD, get acquainted with many famous Melbourne landmarks, taste the amazing food Melbourne has to offer, and experience Melbourne’s laneway culture.

Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Melbourne CBD. Depending on where you are staying in Melbourne, you may wish to visit these attractions in a different order.

You can take a tram to commute between these attractions, but I suggest walking between these attractions where possible to better experience this vibrant city. Regardless of your mode of transport, there will be a lot of walks involved, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes .

Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station (aka Flinders Station) is located at the corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street. It is the oldest and the busiest train station in Victoria . In addition to being a busy transporting hub, Flinders Street Station is also an important Melbourne landmark, owing to its distinctive appearance.

Flinders Station was rebuilt in 1905 into its current shape. This yellow and maroon-coloured building complex stretches over 2 blocks along the Yarra River. It also stands out among nearby buildings with its green-coloured domes, pointy clock tower, and perfectly aligned departure clocks above its front gate.

St Paul’s Cathedral (Melbourne)

Diagonally across the intersection from Flinders Station, you can then find the glorious St Paul’s Cathedral.

St Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral, built in 1891. Sitting on the eastern corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street intersection & in the city end of Princes Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral captures the attention of many passersby with its grand Gothic Revival design.

Make sure you also check out the impressive interior of St Paul’s Cathedral. The interior of St Paul’s Cathedral is simply awe-inspiring, with its contrasted bluestone stripes.

During my recent visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, Luke Jerram’s Gaia was also on display within the cathedral, which made this place look even more majestic. Gaia is a 7-metre wide, internally lit sphere that represents the planet & rotates every 4 minutes.

Flinders Lane

Flinders Lane is located between Flinders Street and Collins Street. With many smaller laneways branching out, Flinders Lane is home to many of Melbourne’s best diners and street arts.

A walk along Flinders Lane, you can find a range of sophisticated restaurants, quirky cafes, and colourful mural arts. If you are looking for somewhere to eat, Degraves Street is usually a good starting point. For art lovers, Hosier Lane and AC/DC lane are great spots for some colourful mural arts.

For the fashionistas, you can also find a good selection of boutique stores and high-end labels along Flinders Lane. With that being said, you may wish to check out the neighbouring Collins Street as well.

Melbourne Central

Speaking about shopping, make sure you also check out Melbourne Central Shopping Centre.

Melbourne Central Shopping Centre is built on top of Melbourne Central Railway Station and can appear just like any other shopping centre if you don’t know what you are looking for. However, make sure you take a walk inside to view the iconic Coop’s Shot Tower

Coop’s Shot Tower was initially built in 1889 as a shot tower to make lead bullets. It is currently serving as a Shot Tower Museum to showcase its history.

To preserve this iconic shot tower during the development of Melbourne Central, a 20-storey high glass dome was built to house Coop’s Shot Tower within the shopping centre. Because of how unique and photogenic Coop’s Shot Tower and its dome look, the view of Coop’s Shot Tower has become one of the most Instagrammed landmarks in Melbourne.

Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in Australia . First opened in 1878, Queen Victoria Market has largely maintained its original shape over 140 years later & is showcasing a vibrant marketplace from the Victorian era.

In addition to admiring this 19th-century marketplace, you can also find a vast selection of fresh produce and speciality stores in Queen Victoria Market. With a diverse variety of bakeries and diners available, Queen Victoria Market is also the perfect spot to sample some lunch.

State Library of Victoria

Established in 1854, the State Library of Victoria is the oldest public library in Australia . The grand building of the State Library of Victoria houses a vast collection of reading materials and is one of Australia’s busiest libraries.

In addition to admiring this Victorian-style building from the outside, make sure you also check out its glamorous interior, especially the La Trobe Reading Room.

La Trobe Reading Room was first opened in 1913. It is an octagonal reading room & 34.75-metre in diameter and height. This grand reading room is complete with a glass dome, which makes this structure even more impressive. Make sure you check it out!

St Patrick Cathedral

As the largest cathedral in Australia , the grand building complex of St Patrick Cathedral can be seen from a few blocks away, even from the buzzing Melbourne CBD.

Built with distinctive bluestones and surrounded by a stunning garden, St Patrick Cathedral is worth a visit on any given day. Although access to its interior is not always available, you can still get a good view of its glorious interior from its front door.

Parliament House and the Old Treasury Building are also nearby & you may wish to pay a visit to these landmarks as well.

Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is a peaceful public garden along the eastern fringe of Melbourne CBD. This 64-acre of classic Victorian-era garden is a great place for a relaxing stroll and some fresh air near Melbourne CBD.

Within Fitzroy Gardens, you can find lush tree-lined avenues, beautiful fountains and sculptures, a flower-filled conservatory , a magical fairy tree , a picturesque Model Tudor Village , and the famous Cooks Cottage . It is a beautiful attraction for all ages to enjoy.

Day 2: Southbank

After exploring Melbourne CBD on day 1, we are going across the Princes Bridge to explore the other side of Yarra River, Southbank.

Princes Bridge

Princes Bridge is a historic bridge built in 1888. It spans across the peaceful Yarra River & connects the busy Swanston Street from central Melbourne and St Kilda Road on Southbank.

From Princes Bridge, you can obtain one of the best views of Melbourne CBD, Southbank, and the Yarra River . This view is even more spectacular at nighttime when the skyline is lit up with various city lights.

Yarra River

Melbourne was built on the fertile agricultural land along the Yarra River in the 1800s. Although Yarra River is no longer the lifeline of Melbourne, it still serves a significant role in the everyday lives of Melbournians.

Make sure you take a walk along the peaceful Yarra River to experience the vibrant atmosphere along the river bank. Better still, why not check out one of the riverfront diners for a brunch or dinner along the beautiful Yarra River, as true Melbournians will.

The area along Yarra River is also one of the major hubs for vibrant nightlife in Melbourne, which you may also wish to partake in at some point during your visit to Melbourne.

Crown Melbourne

Crown Melbourne is the largest casino in Australia and the southern hemisphere . Spans over two blocks along Yarra River in Southbank, Crown Melbourne is also the largest and most noticeable building complex in Southbank.

Although famous for its gaming areas, Crown Melbourne is also a hub for restaurants, entertainment, luxury shopping, and luxury resorts. Make sure you pop into this grand building complex and have a wander if time allows.

Eureka Tower

At Melbourne Skydeck , you can also step into the Edge , a transparent glass cube that extends out of Eureka Tower at almost 300-metre above the ground, to explore the views of Melbourne from midair. It can be an exhilarating experience, which you may wish to check out as well.

Cost: As of July 2022, a general admission ticket to Melbourne Skydeck is AUD 28 per adult; an additional ticket for the Edge is AUD 14 per adult.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Founded in 1863, the National Gallery of Victoria (commonly referred to as the NGV) is the oldest and most-visited art gallery in Australia . Its huge collection of Australian and international arts is currently housed at two different sites: the NGV building on St Kilda Road in Southbank (NGV International) and the Ian Potter Centre near Federation Square (NGV Australia).

The NGV building on St Kilda Road houses a vast collection of international arts from Asia, Oceania, Europe, and America. There is also a large collection of contemporary arts within NGV International, which make this place well suited for every taste.

A range of popular temporary exhibitions can also be found across the two different NGV sites, which makes NGV a fabulous place to visit over and over again.

Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is a memorial for honouring the service and sacrifice of Australians who served in war and peacekeeping.

Completed in 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is one of Australia’s largest war memorials . It is also a site for the annual ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services.

This enormous memorial can be accessed from the visitor centre (located on the botanic gardens’ side). Within the Shrine of Remembrance, you can find a 40-metre-long Wall of Medals and a massive display of artefacts from WW1 to the present.

If you follow the gallery to the central crypt, you can also find access to the balcony at the Shrine of Remembrance. From the balcony, you can obtain a spectacular panoramic view of Southbank, Melbourne CBD, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne Gardens

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria was first founded in 1846 & has been an essential part of Melbourne’s cityscape.

In addition to its original site near Melbourne CBD, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria also established a second site in Cranbourne in 1970. For this 4-day Melbourne trip, we will only be visiting its Melbourne Gardens for convenience.

The Melbourne Gardens is established on 94 acres of gentle slope along the southern bank of Yarra River. Besides the beautiful riverfront view, you can also enjoy some tranquil lake views in Melbourne Gardens. In addition, within Melbourne Gardens, you can also find over 8000 species of plants from all around the world & indulge in a lavish high-tea across the lake.

For people with limited mobility or who do not wish to walk the entire length around this huge garden, an open-air minibus (the Explorer) is available at Melbourne Gardens for a small fee. The Explorer bus is accessible from the visitor centre, which is only a short walk from the front entrance.

Day 3: Explore Melbourne’s Vibrant Suburbs

The beauty of Melbourne resides in not only its buzzing CBD but also its vibrant suburbs. So, on the third day of this Melbourne trip, we are going to explore a few of the most popular suburbs around.

Royal Exhibition Building & Melbourne Museum

Established in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building is one of the last few remaining exhibition buildings from the International Exhibition movement. Nowadays, in addition to being used as an exhibition centre, the Royal Exhibition Building is also used for a variety of other events throughout the year.

Make sure you take a walk through the beautiful Carlton Gardens to visit the glamorous Royal Exhibition Building via its gate on Victoria Street . From this angle, you will have the best view of the picturesque Carlton Gardens and the palace-like Royal Exhibition Building.

If you happened to be visiting on a day when the Royal Exhibition Building is open to the public, make sure you also check out the inside of this building to admire its stunning dome and artworks.

Just behind the Royal Exhibition Building, you can find the award-winning Melbourne Museum . For the curious minds, you may also wish to check out the vast culture, history, and science exhibits within this modern museum.

After visiting the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, make sure you take a short walk to visit Melbourne’s oldest suburb , Fitzroy.

Established in 1839, Fitzroy has become Melbourne’s most populated suburb & a vibrant cultural and culinary hub. A walk around Brunswick Street and Johnston Street in Fitzroy will find you several popular pubs and cafes, serving a great variety of foods and beverages.

As Melbourne’s oldest suburb, Fitzroy is also in no short supply of Victorian-era architecture and is home to an extensive collection of terraced buildings.

As a vibrant suburb, Fitzroy is also home to a number of art establishments and live-performance venues. You can also find a range of colourful mural arts around many street corners in Fitzroy.

Collingwood & Keith Haring Mural

Collingwood is another vibrant inner Melbourne suburb located right next to Fitzroy.

Similar to Fitzroy, Collingwood is also filled with beautiful Victorian-era buildings, quirky cafes, and art precincts. For art lovers, make sure you also check out the newly established Collingwood Yards.

Collingwood Yards is located on the buzzing Johnston Street in Collingwood. It was first opened in March 2021 as an art precinct for artists, studios, and art galleries. It is a great spot for artists to get connected and be inspired. There are also a few shops, a cafe, and a rooftop bar on-site to suit everyone’s needs.

On the side of the Collingwood Yards building complex (along Johnston Street), you can find one of the most famous mural arts in Melbourne, the Keith Haring Mural . It was completed by the internationally-renowned Keith Haring in 1984 & one not to be missed if you are interested in mural arts.

Prahran Market

Located in South Yarra, Prahran Market is a historic fresh produce market with a modern twist.

Built in 1881, the exterior of Prahran Market is screaming a Victorian-era charm & looks nothing like a fresh produce market with its arched entrances.

Once stepped inside Prahran Market, you can find not just your regular fresh produce but also a great selection of hard-to-find produce and speciality stores. With many gourmet bakeries and cafes, Prahran Market is certainly a foodie’s paradise .

After checking out Prahran Market, you may wish to also check out another vibrant Melbourne suburb, Prahran.

In addition to the boutique stores and quirky cafes along Chapel Street , make sure you also take a walk around Prahran to check out its Victorian and Edwardian terrace buildings. Famous landmarks you may wish to look out for in Prahran also include Reads Emporium and Prahran City Hall .

Chadstone Shopping Centre

Chadstone Shopping Centre is located in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, only 25-minute away by car or 35-minute away by public transport from Melbourne CBD. It is Australia’s largest all-inclusive, suburban shopping complex & known as The Fashion Capital.

Day 4: Beach Day

On the last day of this Melbourne trip, we are going to relax at a few of Melbourne’s well-known beachfront locations.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a 30-minute drive or a 25-minute train ride from Melbourne CBD. It is one of Melbourne’s most popular beaches & well-known for its Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Brighton Bathing Boxes are a group of 96 colourful wooden beach huts, well-aligned along Brighton Beach’s foreshore area. They were initially built in the 1800s by local residents as changing rooms when wandering the streets in bathers or changing on the beach was illegal.

Nowadays, ownership of Brighton Bathing Boxes is still in the hands of the local residents, but these colourful beach boxes have become more of a local landmark than a change room. Each year, thousands of visitors come to Brighton Beach not just to bathe on its sandy beach but also to admire the picturesque Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Access to Brighton Beach is free. You are allowed to stroll freely along the beachfront and take photos of Brighton Bathing Boxes. However, ownership of the bathing boxes is for local residents only, and the bathing boxes are not allowed to be rented out either.

Paid car parks are available at Brighton Beach. You can also find free off-street parking in nearby side streets. However, these free off-street parking spots are mostly 1-hour parking only.

Point Ormond Lookout

Point Ormond Lookout is located on top of a small grassy hill near Elwood Beach, between Brighton Beach and St Kilda Beach. There is also a well-maintained walking trail (Bay Trail) cutting through Point Ormond Lookout, along the beautiful Port Phillip Bay.

From Point Ormond Lookout, you can obtain a spectacular view of Melbourne CBD and the stunning Port Philip Bay. It is a great place for a casual stroll and a picnic.

There are plenty of paid carparks near Point Ormond Lookout, but free carparks are few and far between. Hence, you may wish to visit Brighton Beach by public transport, then follow the scenic Bay Trail to visit Point Ormond Lookout and St Kilda Beach. Alternatively, ride-share services are also widely available in this area.

St Kilda Beach

St Kilda Beach is just over 20-minute away from Melbourne CBD by car or tram. It is Melbourne’s most popular beach & a great spot for swimming, water activities, and socialising.

St Kilda Beach is also home to the famous St Kilda Pier , which is a concrete pier & stretches all the way to the iconic St Kilda Pavilion . St Kilda Pier is a popular spot for fishing and leisure walks. Towards the end of St Kilda Pier, you will then find the St Kilda Breakwater.

St Kilda Breakwater is important in providing calm, swimmable water at St Kilda Beach. It is also well-known for being a fairy penguin colony . A designated viewing platform is available near the end of St Kilda Pier for visitors to view those cute fairy penguins return back to their rookeries between the rocks of St Kilda Breakwater after sunset.

Luna Park Melbourne is the oldest amusement park in Australia and has been operating for well over 100 years. Luna Park is famous for its iconic Mr Moon entrance and its exhilarating roller coaster rides. Being conveniently located near St Kilda Beach, it is also a great place to spend a fabulous afternoon for all ages.

Princes Pier

Princes Pier is a historic pier located in Port Melbourne. In my opinion, Princes Pier is one of the most picturesque sunset locations near Melbourne . With only a brief car/tram ride from Melbourne CBD, a visit to Princes Pier is highly recommended.

At Princes Pier, you will find a stunning sight of exposed pylons towards the end of this refurbished pier. These pylons are from the original Princes Pier, constructed between 1912 and 1915. These perfectly aligned pylons stretch deep into the bay & form one of the most Instagrammed sights in Port Melbourne.

Paid car parking spots are available around Princes Pier. You can also find a few free off-street parking spots around.

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day trip ideas for SE melbourne please

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im hoping someone can help me with some good daytrip destinations from the douth eastern suburbs of melbourne (frankston) that might have some good tracks. pref a little challenging but not bog holes. the couple that want to come with me will not do bog holes. they will do knee high water crossings even muddy water but not actual bog holes lol. ive herd a little about places like toolangi but im not sure with the fires having been everywhere. pictures of suggestions would also be great. cheers.  

go to the map shop in chadstone ( the suburb) and get a book on day trips from melb. cobaw. toolarook, toolangi, narby, neerim, bunyip, wahalla are all good day trippers.  

gembrook is alright now if your not looking to get a little dirty, its pretty dry...went to toolangi and wesburn over the last two weeks, there is mud out there, just dont go expecting alot of it..clearly!! if you go to wessy or toolangi, let me know if you want some to tag along, always keen for a bush bash session! dave  

cool thanks guys. i will let you know what i decide and a tag along is always welcome. same thing if anyone is heading out those kind of ways let me know and ill tag along if cool.  

Wallhalla is my fave and alot can be done in a day if you plan well, an overnighter is better and a week trip even better again. For a short run you cant go past Bunyip although the tracks there are fairly timid in my opinion. There is no mud in Bunyip at the moment and the same with Wallhalla with the exception of around the rivers. Pleanty of river crossings around Wally but they are all flowing water and cristal clear. A bit or rain can change that pritty quick though.(the mud part) As the guys have said above post up when you are going out as there are heaps of forumites down Frankston way and you will definatly get takers on tag alongs.  

Bunyip is deffianlty a good place to head for a day trip, being one of the closest places. Nerrim Sth is also a good place, its a little further but the tracks out there seemed a little hard and had not much mud. I am also from Frankston and am always keen to up that way, let me know when u go next. Cheers matt  

Neerim east,Noojee,hawthorn bridge and sweetwater reserve are all 15 min to 30 min drive from home. All have a good range of tracks from easy to hard to bloody hard,all are good in summer.I think it would be about 1.5 to 2 hrs from frankston but don't quote me on that.  

Hey Chester, I went for a spin last weekend and thought whilst I was in Neerim South I'd head home via Hawthrorne Bridge and King Road to Hill End. I was surprised when I got to the Latrobe River that Hawthorne Bridge is now Hawthorne River Crossing. There are some great tacks to do in and around the Latrobe River Road.  

cheers for all the info guys. i will; definetly post when im next going out.  

Yer its been that way for a while, the DSE reckoned it was to unsafe to cross,more fun this way mainly in winter when water is fair flowing.The best part about there is its hard to get lost it is all just one big loop when u look on the map.  

I used to do day trips from rawson to licola and back on bikes but would like to give the fourbi a go at that one day  

Went for a quick drive to hawthorn bridge on sunday,crossed the river went up tolley trk on to suckling trk then up an unnamed trk and back to camping area cross river then up the dunny block trk, was a good easy trip did most in 2wd except for the steep bit's was dry also,got some pic's of a couple of the tracks for ya.  

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sounds and looks good mate. cheers.  

A mate and I are heading up to Gembrook on Saturday. Both on our P's and my mate has never been 4wding before. He is driving a nivara, we wont be to doing anything hard i wouldn't reckon, feel free to tag along! Anyone else going out this weekend? Cheers Matt  

what time u heading out on satday???? might tag a long with a work mate if u dunt mind....  

I'm possibly up for a drive Saturday.... keep us posted.... Sounding Good!!  

Sounds good guys. We will most likely be head as early as we can. hopefully be out there around 9. But not being very fimilar with the area and most likely having to stop and look at a map and what not might knock us back abit. Cheers  

Might tag along aswell. Where are you meeting in gembrook?  

i mite be keen as well PM me with any details  

im keen for a bush bash! let us know mate dave  

definetly let us know mate. ill be up for a tag along on your next trip im just in frankston north so an easy meetup. ive been trying to get out on a tag along or organise a tag along for a while now but have had a few things creep up that have stopped me going anyway. going to o'tooles flat for east then free for weekends after that.  

Might take the kids up there for a night not sure yet, ill have to keep an eye out for ya mate  

dunno if anyone is interested, 95 percent certain me n a mate will be going to gembrook next sunday 21st, pm me if anyone is keen and ill let you know!!  

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