Discover the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Victoria with these sensational day trips just outside of Melbourne.
Nestled within this dynamic city are countless opportunities for exploration, but the true essence of Victoria lies beyond its urban confines. Embark on a journey with us as we unveil the top day trip destinations from Melbourne, each offering a unique blend of natural wonders, historical treasures, and culinary delights.
Whether you’re craving coastal escapades, scenic drives through lush hinterlands, or encounters with native wildlife, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences just a stone’s throw away from the bustling streets of Melbourne. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and must-visit locales that await your discovery, ensuring that every day trip becomes an adventure to remember in Victoria.
Picture yourself panning for gold, watching a real-life jousting tournament, or admiring colonial masterpieces. Sounds intriguing? Then pack your bags, it’s time for a getaway in Ballarat, Victoria’s golden city. Located only an hour-and-a-half out of Melbourne, Ballarat has everything you need for a great day trip, including the iconic Sovereign Hill: a re-reaction of a Gold Rush-era outpost town that’ll immerse you in frontier history with costumed actors and even the chance to pan for gold. There is also the medieval antics at Kryal Castle and the stunning Art Gallery of Ballarat, as well as a breathtaking city centre that pays homage to its mining roots.
Photographed by Robert Blackburn. Image via Visit Victoria.Ballarat
True Melbournians know that Daylesford is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. But Daylesford offers more than just a calming countryside. Book a weekend stay in a Hepburn at Hepburn Villa just north of Daylesford for a relaxing retreat from ordinary life. This neck of the woods is home to lush scenery, historical buildings and spectacular local produce served at the various restaurants and cafes. Also making our list as one of the Top Romantic Getaway Destinations around Australia, Daylesford has all the rustic charms one expects from country Victoria. A must visit in 2024!
Image via Visit Victoria.Daylesford
No list of the best day trips in Victoria would be complete without the iconic Great Ocean Road. Stretching along the southwest coast, this 243-kilometre drive offers mesmerising views of some of the most iconic sites in Victoria including the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, Bay of Islands and Three Mile Beach. The winding road takes you through lush rainforests and charming seaside towns for an unforgettable scenic drive. So grab some friends and buckle in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Photographed by Jarrod Andrews. Image via Visit Victoria.Great Ocean Road
One of the most popular weekend day trips in Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula is the perfect way to soak in the rays along this coastal getaway. Located only about an hour-and-a-half out of Melbourne, this narrow strip of coastline of town including Rye, Sorrento, and, of course, Mornington, are must-visits for anyone wanting to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a truly relaxing experience. One of the Best Wine Regions in Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula is also home to one of the Best Hot Springs too. So buckle up for a great day trip in Victoria!
Bike Riding at Point Nepean. Image via Visit VictoriaMornington Peninsula
The stunning Phillip Island is an ideal day trip destination from Melbourne for families or solo travellers alike. Phillip Island offers the chance to come up-close-and-personal with wildlife, including the famous Penguin Parade and the Koala Conservation Centre. With wonderful wildlife comes stunning landscapes, such as the Nobbies Centre and Woolamai Beach providing breathtaking views and outdoor activities like surfing and hiking. For families, attractions like A Maze’N Things and the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit are sure to get everyone’s heart racing, while food enthusiasts can savour the many great eateries and wineries. Blending nature, adventure, and local cuisine, Phillip Island is the perfect getaway for all ages.
Image via Visit Victoria.Phillip Island
For wine aficionados of all stripes, try a taste of Victoria’s brilliant wine region at the Yarra Valley. This day trip located just an hour drive out of the CBD is sure to indulge of your senses as you meander through rolling hills adorned with vineyards – so be sure to stop at renowned wineries for tastings of world-class wines! Beyond wine, the Yarra Valley also boasts plenty artisanal local produce making it a food lover’s paradise, as well as stunning gardens such as the annual Tesselaar Tulip Festival. One of the best day trip destinations from Melbourne in Victoria!
Photographed by Adrian Brown. Image via Visit Victoria.Yarra Valley
While visiting these fabulous destinations, find some hidden treasures at the Top 6 Op Shops and Vintage Stores in Country Victoria. Appease your craving for a road trip with this guide to the 6 Most Scenic Drives around Victoria.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
