romantic day trips melbourne

The ultimate list of 17 romantic things to do in Melbourne

Looking for a little romance in Melbourne? Check out these ideas! Spending time with your partner is important, but sometimes it can be hard to come up with new fun, exciting and romantic things to do in Melbourne together. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered in Melbourne with romance.

In Melbourne, there are numerous couple activities from classic ideas like going on a picnic to trying something new like dance lessons. Melbourne is renowned for its romantic places, there’s sure to be something here that sparks your interest. So what are you waiting for?

Visit the NGV in Melbourne

Romantic things to do in melbourne.

Some of the ideas we have in this romantic things to do in Melbourne guide may not be to your taste but there is someone out there that will love it. We’ve done our best to include all types of activities in Melbourne for romance!

Stay at a 5-star hotel

Book a staycation in the Melbourne CBD at one of the many 5-star hotels in the city such as the Langham on Southbank , or Movenpick on Spencer Street . Pick a room with a view and a bath, order some room service and get into your fancy robes.

Mövenpick has suites featuring freestanding bathtubs with a small side table, perfect for a bubble bath and a bottle of wine. The Langham has its well-renowned High Tea and the Chuan Spa, which offers an array of revitalising wellness treatments. Be dazzled by the city lights when visiting Melbourne .

Have a picnic – romantic places in Melbourne

A romantic picnic in Melbourne is such a great idea. The city is home to great green areas where you can spread out a picnic blanket and unpack some yummy food and drinks, maybe have a sneaky sparkling wine.

Take your special person to the Botanical Gardens, The Banks of the Yarra River, Treasury Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens and more. Picnics are made much easier these days with a range of companies selling ready-made picnic hampers for your day out in Melbourne.

Explore Victoria:   13 amazing places to experience autumn in Victoria

Watch a sunset

Why not watch a perfect Melbourne sunset with a drink in your hand from one of the many bars or restaurants on South Wharf? Places such as Munich Brauhaus, The Boatbuilders Yard or Bangpop South Wharf are the perfect places to have a romantic sunset meal in Melbourne.

All these establishments have outdoor seating on the river, so you will be able to see the sunset in the west as it goes down along the Yarra River. This is one of the most popular romantic things to do in Melbourne.

Watch a sunrise

The sunrises in Melbourne, Australia, are some of the most beautiful in the world. The colours are so vibrant, and the sky is so clear. It’s a perfect romantic experience to start the day watching the city of Melbourne wake up.

Places with views to the east are excellent for watching a Melbourne sunrise, maybe an early morning stroll along the Yarra towards the MCG or somewhere along the South Bank for breakfast. This is one of the best romantic things to do in Melbourne for early risers.

Melbourne on a budget?  Here are all the best free things to do in Melbourne

Couples massage – romantic things to do in Melbourne

A romantic couples massage is a great way to spend quality time with your partner while also enjoying the benefits of massage therapy. A couples massage can help you relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with your partner.

It is important to find a reputable massage therapist experienced in performing couples massages so that you can feel comfortable and safe during your session. Make it a relaxing date, a perfect date.

Take dancing lessons – romantic activities in Melbourne

Dancing is a great way for couples to spend time together and express love. It can be a fun activity for date night in Melbourne or a way to add romance to a special occasion.

There are many dance styles, so couples can find the one that best suits them. With a little practice, anyone can learn how to dance with their partner and create lasting memories.

Planning a day at Luna Park?  Here is everything you need to know to plan an epic visit to Luna Park

Hot air balloon ride – romantic experiences in Melbourne

Romance in Melbourne can be had in many locations, including a hot air balloon. It’s an experience you’ll never forget, floating high above the cityscape with only the sound of the burner to keep you company.

The views are amazing as you float through the city centre along the Yarra River, spotting a few of Melbourne’s famous landmarks. If you’re thinking of giving hot air ballooning a go as one of the best romantic things in Melbourne, Melbourne is the perfect place to do it. Book your Hot Air Balloon date in Melbourne

Romantic date ideas in Melbourne – Dinner

A romantic dinner in Melbourne date can be an exceptional and memorable experience. Whether it is your first date or you have been together for years, a romantic dinner can help rekindle your relationship’s romance.

First, choose a restaurant that you know your partner will love. It should have a romantic atmosphere, good food, and attentive service. In Melbourne, we recommend a romantic restaurant like Eureka 89 Fine Dining Restaurant, some 280 meters above the ground, or find intimate laneway venues throughout the city for an unforgettable night.

Plenty of candles, wine and amazing food at romantic restaurants will make your evening in Melbourne romantic.

Stargazing in Melbourne – Melbourne Observatory Telescope

A date spent stargazing is a romantic and fun way to spend time together while getting to know each other. It’s a great romantic activity in Melbourne for any couple, whether just getting to know each other or having been together for years.

On romantic things to do in Melbourne date night, do a guided tour of the Melbourne Observatory Telescope and look at the stars together. You could also lay a blanket on a clear summer night at any of Melbourne’s parks and gardens and look at the night sky. All you need is a clear night sky and some patience. Make it the ultimate romantic evening.

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are 11 fun-filled day trips from Melbourne

Find an outdoor cinema.

A summer night in Melbourne wouldn’t be complete without an outdoor cinema experience. There’s something special about watching a movie under the stars that can’t be replicated indoors. Whether you’re cuddled up with a blanket with some snacks or enjoying a picnic dinner, the outdoor cinema is the perfect romantic thing to do in Melbourne on a warm summer night.

Go to the Theatre

A night at the theatre is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening in Melbourne with your significant other. Many types of theatre productions can be seen in Melbourne, from musicals to comedies and dramas.

Whether you’re looking for a night of laughs or tears, you’re sure to find a production to suit your taste. As a couple looking for romantic things to do in Melbourne , the theatre is a chance to dress up, enjoy some great entertainment, and just relax together. The Theatre is one of the best romantic nights out in Melbourne. Book theatre tickets in Melbourne today.

Romantic dinner cruise in Melbourne

There are plenty of cruise options for you on the Yarra River. We can go on a sightseeing cruise, a romantic dinner cruise, a high tea cruise and even a booze cruise with cocktails thrown in.

You can hire your own boat, pack some food and drinks and head upriver. All these cruise options are available from the South Bank if you’re looking for a Melbourne romantic day out.

Need some inspiration? Here are the top date night ideas in Melbourne

Hire a row boat

Just a few kilometres out of the city at Studly Park Boathouse you can hire your own row boat for a romantic paddle. On the banks of the Yarra River, a fleet of paddle boats is waiting for you and your loved one. Why not combine a boat hire with some fantastic food at the Boathouse Café, and you are all set for a romantic day in Melbourne?

Visit popular Rooftop bars – fun things to do in Melbourne for couples

Melbourne, Australia, is not only known for its vibrant culture but also its thriving rooftop bar scene, making it the perfect backdrop for a memorable date night.

As the sun sets and the city comes to life, you and your partner can indulge in the magic of Melbourne from above.

Each rooftop bar offers a unique atmosphere, crafty cocktails, and breathtaking views that set the stage for an unforgettable evening of romance and connection. We recommend heading to places like The Stolen Gem, The Rooftop at QT, Goldilocks or the Transport Bar.

High Tea in Melbourne

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and tea. There are many great venues to have a high tea in Melbourne as a romantic gesture for your partner. Put on your best clothes and be ready to sip tea and eat cakes on a romantic date in Melbourne.

Book High Tea at the Windsor Hotel ↗

Book high tea at the national gallery ↗, take in a game.

Sports, romantic? Yes, they are. Everyone has different tastes and likes in life and for some, a night at the footy, basketball game or even rugby is a great way to spend some time with their significant other. Melbourne is home to teams from the AFL, NRL, A-League, NBL and more.

Begin your unforgettable date by leisurely exploring the NGV’s renowned art collections. As you meander through the galleries, you’ll be immersed in a captivating world of classic and contemporary art.

Take time to appreciate the beauty, and let the art spark conversations and deepen your connection with your partner. Afterwards, have lunch at NGV’s Garden Restaurant, which overlooks the tranquil garden, moat, and sculptures at NGV in Melbourne . Romantic things to do in Melbourne’s CBD don’t get any better or easier than this.

Melbourne offers many fun things for couples, such as exploring the vibrant street art scene, enjoying romantic walks along St Kilda Beach , and indulging in delicious food and wine at the city’s famous laneway restaurants.

Melbourne offers a variety of romantic day trips for couples looking to explore the city’s scenic beauty and cultural attractions, such as Peninsula Hot Spring Spa or even a trip to Phillip Island.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

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Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

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THE 10 BEST Couples' Activities & Things to Do in Melbourne

Best things to do in melbourne for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Central Business District
• Lygon Street
• South Melbourne
• Port Melbourne
• Chapel Street
• Albert Park
• Middle Park
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

2. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

3. City Circle Tram

4. Shrine of Remembrance

5. Queen Victoria Market

6. Melbourne Skydeck

7. National Gallery of Victoria

8. Block Arcade

9. Melbourne Museum

10. Melbourne Zoo

11. State Library Victoria

12. Old Melbourne Gaol

13. Fitzroy Gardens

14. Southbank

15. Dandenong Ranges National Park

17. St. Patrick's Cathedral

18. South Melbourne Market

19. Rod Laver Arena

20. Yarra River

21. Melbourne Central

22. St Paul's Cathedral

23. Federation Square

24. Immigration Museum

25. Degraves Street

26. The Regent Theatre

27. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia

28. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

29. Collins Street

30. Royal Exhibition Building

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• Inspirational

20 Romantic Things to Do in Melbourne for Couples

Are you looking for romantic things to do in Melbourne for a special occasion? Australia’s second-biggest city could be your next honeymoon destination. With picturesque gardens, a beautiful skyline, and amazing nightlife, there’s no better way to have a romance-filled holiday.  Melbourne offers everything from romantic dinner cruises to intimate jazz clubs and old-world theatres. We’ve picked out 21 romantic activities to give you the most romantic trip of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

1. Hot Air Balloon Flight

High on the list and guaranteed to impress any partner, is a hot air balloon flight over Melbourne. Departing early in the morning, go on a gracious flight over Melbourne. You’ll enjoy the incredible scenery of the CBD and afar as you float above landmarks such as the MCG, Eureka Skydeck 88, and Yarra River. If you opt for a scrumptious breakfast after the flight, you’ll be taken to the 35th floor at the Sofitel Hotel overlooking Melbourne CBD. This is undoubtedly one of the best options for special occasions. It could be an anniversary, a first date, or even a surprise marriage proposal. Watch the incredible sunrise on the horizon holding your loved one. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience flying over one of the most scenic cities in Australia.

• Pickup Time: 5am
• Duration:  4 hours
• Departure Point: 25 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Check Tour  

2. Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

Romance fills the air at the picturesque Yarra River. Lined with barbecue and picnic facilities, fishing platforms, and jetties, the Yarra River is definitely the social heart of the city. Board one of the river crafts at Southgate or Princes Walk and spend a cruisy night watching Melbourne pass by. The Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise is one of the most popular in the city. Depart from Southbank Promenade, you’ll enjoy some of the city’s most stunning views, plus a sumptuous four-course meal. Take in beautiful views of the Melbourne skyline and see some of the city’s famous sites. Enjoy a romantic dinner, plus a glass of wine, beer, and spirits.

• Departure Time: 7:30pm
• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure Point:  Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

Book Cruise

3. ArtVo Immersive Gallery Experience

The Melbourne ArtVo Immersive Gallery is truly one of a kind. The gallery’s impressive detail transports you into unique fantasy worlds where optical illusions and dream-like 3D environments come alive. With 100 reality-defying 3D artworks, couples can wander this museum for hours. Pretend you’re a mermaid in the aquatic adventure exhibit or get lost in an enchanted garden. Whatever you choose to visit, let your imagination flow to get the best experience. There are also two exhibits dedicated to Australia called Aussie Pride and Australiana. You can immerse yourself in the country’s culture even more during your visit to Melbourne. This is one of the best romantic ideas to take plenty of photos.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-6pm
• Duration:  1-3 hours
• Address:  Shop NCF, 07 Level/1 26 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008

Book Tickets Official site

4. Romantic Horse and Carriage Tour

Want to feel like a royal couple for a day? Hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage as you pass Melbourne’s main attractions and city scenery. Classic Carriage Hire will take you through King Domain Gardens and witness the famous Shrine of Remembrance memorial. Then, enjoy another green oasis in the Queen Victoria Gardens and see some of Melbourne’s most eclectic statues. The carriage also crosses over the Princes Bridge, which offers an amazing view of the Yarra River, perfect for a romantic date.

• Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday 1pm to 9pm
• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Departure point: Federation Square opposite Flinders Street Station

Official site

5. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

This trip is perfect for animal-loving couples, and it’s especially romantic if you go on a night tour. At Melbourne’s award-winning Moonlit Sanctuary, you can explore an ark of interesting animals after dark. The world-famous lantern-lit night tours offer an intimate look at many of Australia’s native wildlife from just a few feet away. Discover the mysteries and habitats of active night birds and endangered nocturnal animals like quolls, pademelons, and bettongs. Feed animals like kangaroos and koalas in a peaceful bush setting.

• Opening Hours:  Weekdays 10am-4pm; Weekends 9:30am-4pm
• Duration:  2-3 hours
• Address:  550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale VIC 3912

Check Tours Official site

6. Peninsula Hot Spring Spa

Looking for a serene retreat away from the big city? Good news! A relaxation haven lies just 90 minutes from Melbourne. The Peninsula Hot Springs Spa provides idyllic scenery and spa services to help you rejuvenate. Couples can enjoy the spa’s romance packages. This includes amenities like indoor or outdoor private mineral baths, relaxing massages, and geothermal bathing.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 5am-11pm
• Duration: 6 hours
• Address:  140 Springs Ln, Fingal VIC 3939

Check Tour Official site

7. Luna Park

Rides aren’t just for kids! Couples can have a blast at Luna Park, right beside Melbourne’s Port Shore Bay. Here, lovely strolls and fun-filled thrills go hand in hand. There are over 15 rides to enjoy in the park. So, hop on the carousel or even take a ride on the Scenic Railway roller coaster, if you dare. See wonderful views of Melbourne from the top thrilling rides. You can enjoy a snow cone while taking a romantic stroll outdoors. Check out Luna Park’s event calendar to discover cool concerts and festivals hosted in the park for some more relaxed fun.

• Opening Hours:  Sunday to Thursday 11am-8pm; Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Address:  18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Check Deals Official site

8. Theatre, Shows & Musicals

Melbourne’s vibrant theatre scene offers cutting-edge performances, hit musicals, and even late-night cabaret shows. It’s a no-brainer that many call it the unofficial culture capital of Australia. Many major shows like  Wicked,   Mary Poppins ,  Jersey Boys, and  King Kong , open in Melbourne. Plus, its older, majestic theatres are must-see spots whether you like musicals or not. Phenomenal theatre architecture definitely runs rampant throughout the city. Melbourne’s Art Centre, for example, not only has awesome shows but also a futuristic appearance built to be stunning. It’s a 162-metre glowing blue spire, similar to the one of the Eiffel Tower. It shines bright among the city streets and welcomes theatre-goers far and wide. Be sure to go see a show here!

• Duration: 1-4 hours

Check Shows

9. Ghost Tours

If you are a fan of the supernatural, book a spooky ghost tour right in the heart of Melbourne. Places like a haunted bookshop, a chilling prison, and an eerie insane asylum, truly make it one of Australia’s “ghostliest” cities. There’s a rumor that the city has been a haven for spirits since its founding age. During this era, Melbourne was rife with crime and had infamous outlaws. People allege that the ghosts of these criminals still stalk the city today, Of course, some of Melbourne’s haunted sites can be quite scary, but also loads of fun. If you dare, take your partner on a spooky date! Scary stories will surely have all couples warming up to each other. You can also read our recommendations in the Scariest Ghost Tours In Melbourne .

• Duration:  1-4 hours
• Prices: from $16 AUD

Check Tours

10. Melbourne Skydeck

Get a birds-eye view of the city at the top of Melbourne Skydeck. It’s a whopping 300 meters above the ground on the 88th floor making it the perfect date for thrill-seekers. Located on the southern banks of the Yarra River, you’ll have 360-degree views of notable Melbourne sites. This includes places like Port Phillip Bay, Dockland, the CBD sports precinct, and much more. If you’re brave enough, take part in the Skydeck’s Edge Experience. You’ll not only have reflection-free views but also an amazing vantage point from a glass cube that extends 3 meters out from the deck. It may seem scary at first, but seeing this side of Melbourne is totally worth it. At night, indulge in a sumptuous romantic dinner at the Eureka 89 restaurant. Bookings are required in advance to enjoy their 5 to 7-course menus.

• Opening Hours:  Wednesday & Thursday 4pm-9pm; Friday 4pm-10pm; Saturday & Sunday 12pm-10pm
• Address:  7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006

Check Tickets Official site

11. Melbourne Sunset Kayak Tour

This kayak tour gives you some of the best views of Melbourne during some of its best sunsets. You’ll start your journey in Victoria Harbour where you’ll dine on the water. Eat yummy fish n’ chips to keep you satisfied during the 2.5-hour-long journey. Then, paddle right into the heart of Melbourne along the Yarra River. You’ll have a chance to see the dramatic fire-ball display at Melbourne’s Crown Casino, plus a beautiful sunset too.

• Departure time: 4:45pm
• Departure Point:  912 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008, Australia

12. Overnight at the Zoo

There are two zoos in Melbourne that allow overnight guests. But, the Melbourne Zoo definitely takes the cake. Its Roar n Snore Overnight Camp lets guests wine, dine, and sleep in its historic elephant exhibit. You’ll even take a night tour where you can hear, smell and observe nocturnal animals in their natural elements.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-5pm
• Duration: 3-4 during the day or overnight
• Address:  Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052

Melbourne Zoo Official site

Or you can visit Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Slumber Safari . The zoo offers luxury tents with a fully hosted experience. Included in the package are animal encounters, drinks at sunset, a night walk, and marshmallows over the campfire.

• Duration:  3-4 during the day or overnight
• Address:  K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030

Werribee Open Range Official site

13. Melbourne Crown Casino

Spend a luxurious date night at the biggest casino in Australia. The dazzling, sophisticated setting of the Melbourne Crown Casino rivals some of the best around the world. Even if you’re not into gambling, you can still partake in a lavish, romantic experience at the Crown’s resort. Its packed with a glamorous hotel and spa, restaurants, and fun events like concerts and live theatre. Most of all, don’t forget to check out the casino’s spectacular gas brigade fire show, where you’ll see the world’s largest fireballs soar into the sky. This start on the hour Monday to Friday from 9pm til midnight. On weekends, it starts from 8pm. We’d highly recommend a stay overnight to experience all the facilities and entertainment.

• Guest Rating:  9.1
• Star Rating:  5 stars
• Address:  8 Whiteman Street, Southbank, 3006 Melbourne, Australia

Check Rooms   Official site

14. Queen Victoria Market

Take a romantic walk through the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Queen Victoria Market, offers everything from fresh produce to savory smells and delicious pastries scattered throughout its bustling stalls. Want to stroll through the market under the stars? Queen Victoria’s night market increases the hub’s lively atmosphere from November to April. During this time, you can enjoy live music, delicious food stalls, and even late-night shopping. Buy a bottle of wine and some fresh food for a romantic dinner at home.

• Opening Hours: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 6am-3pm; Saturday 6am-4pm; Sunday 9am-4pm
• Address:  Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000

15. Holey Moley

On a romantic date to Holey Moley Golf Club, get ready to show off your putting skills. The club’s mini-golf course offers over 2 levels and 27 crazy pop-culture holes to bring on the competition between couples. Plus, you can even indulge in a cocktail or two at the course’s Caddyshack bar, or belt out some tunes in a karaoke room. There’s one thing that you won’t be able to deny after a visit: that Holey Moley is surely a whole lot of fun.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 4pm-11pm; Friday 2pm-1am; Saturday 11am-1am; Sunday 11am-11pm
• Address:  590 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

16. Penguin Parade

You won’t be the only cutie on a date to Phillip Island. Come see the penguin parade on a natural gem not too far from the city! Each night at sunset, these cute little penguins emerge from the waters and waddle to their homes in nearby sand dunes. This is one of the most popular attractions in Australia just two hours from Melbourne. So, experience it the right way with a tour of Phillip Island. You’ll love the romantic sunset on the island.

• Opening Hours: Visitor center opens 4pm. Penguins arrive sunset daily.
• Duration: Whole day trip
• Prices: Tours from $96 AUD
• Address:  1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands, Victoria 3922

17. Jazz Clubs

Melbourne is filled with upbeat jazz clubs to get you moving and grooving. Find a great selection of live music every week. From intimate laneway venues to crowded jazz festivals, there are plenty of toe-tapping spots in the city. Some feature bebop, big band, fusion jazz, and even sultry soloists. Check out Paris Cat Jazz Club for live music and yummy tapas. Or the Uptown Jazz Cafe , a venue that lines up well-known jazz performers, invokes an intimate atmosphere and has a delicious Japanese menu.

• Best Time to Visit:  from 5:30pm
• Duration: 3-4 hours

18. Bowling

If you love bowling, come on down to Melbourne to make your next strike. The city is teeming with lots of alleys that have their own unique flair and are perfect for a retro-themed date night. Bowl in style at Kingpin Crown , where pins decorate the ceiling and 12 public neon-lit lanes thrive. Or, head to Strike QV , a retro alley where you can bowl, drink, jam to Rn’B music and even play laser tag with the person you love. Cross your fingers for a lucky strike and bowl away.

19. Karaoke

Sing your heart out at one of Melbourne’s hip karaoke bars. Whether you want to belt tunes out in front of a crowd or chill out as a couple, there’ll be songs for everyone. Get the mic in your hand and let loose at one of these amazing hot spots. Check out  KBOX Karaoke to sing old school and chart-topping hits under gleaming disco bars. Or head to PartyWorld Karaoke , a popular spot with 44 rooms and delectable Asian cuisine. A karaoke date is a great way to have fun and even bring on some friendly competition.

Don’t be afraid to sing your heart out!

• Duration:  2-4 hours

20. Deserts Tasting

Who doesn’t love dessert? In Melbourne, you’ll be spoilt for choices as the city has some of the best-tasting chocolates, ice creams, and pastries in Australia. You can join a tour to explore some of the secret allies that only locals know about. Your guide will show you where to find the best Belgium chocolate, coffee, and dessert bars. There are also some great wine tours that include a chocolate tasting.

• Duration:  3-10 hours
• Prices:  from $100 AUD

These are just some ideas to take your loved one on a romantic date in Melbourne. For more ideas, have a look at the following articles:

• 23 Best Things to do in Melbourne for Adults
• 20 Best Melbourne Hotels for Romantic Wedding Night
• 15 Best Melbourne Hotels for Families
• 16 Best Melbourne Dining, Food & Drinks Tours
• 17 Fun Things to Do In Melbourne with Kids

Find more Things to do in Melbourne

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Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Australia , Victoria , Weekend Getaways · April 1, 2021

Romantic Getaways Victoria: 13 Best Weekend Getaways from Melbourne for Couples

Are you wanting to plan a romantic weekend trip from Melbourne with that special someone? 

As much as we all love the amazing cafes, vibrant art scene and buzzing  laneways in Melbourne , sometimes you just need to escape for the weekend with your main squeeze. And there’s no better time than the present. These romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne will make you want to start planning your next sneaky weekend away ASAP! 

No matter what type of couple you are, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect place to visit on this list. Whether you’re looking for an active weekend of hiking in the Grampians, a road trip along the Great Ocean Road  to tick off your Australia Bucket List , or a visit to the beautiful Yarra Valley Wine Region. We’ve got you covered! 

And the best part… all of these weekend getaways in Victoria are within driving distance from Melbourne CBD! 

Here are 13 of the best romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne for couples to book Now!

Planning a romantic vacay? These 13 best destinations in the world for a couples holiday will inspire you to book a trip ASAP!

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13 Romantic Weekend Getaways from Melbourne

#1 | daylesford & hepburn springs.

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Where to Stay: 

• Hepburn Spa Retreat
• The Dudley Boutique Hotel
• Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel
• Hepburn Spa Pavilions
• Clifftop at Hepburn – Solitude

Daylesford & Hepburn Springs has for a long time been an absolute mecca for couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne. 

Occupying a prime spot for nature bathing, Hepburn Springs has Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs. The area is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend for couples seeking a little wellness break.

The popular  Hepburn Bathouse & Spa  offers indulgent must-do wellness experiences. Pamper yourself with a hydrotherapy session in 100% pure private mineral baths, finished off with a dreamy couples massage. Be sure to book in advance so you’re not disappointed.

Once you’re feeling completely rejuvenated, get out and explore Hepburn Springs and Daylesford town. Check out the local art and craft markets, shopping boutiques and great cafes, and be sure to make a dinner reservation at Argus Dining Room.

Daylesford & Hepburn Springs boasts a number of the best couples retreats in Victoria – all in one tiny town! The biggest challenge will be deciding where to stay. Check out these favourites –  Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel ,  Hepburn Spa Retreat  or  Milk and Honey .

Recommended by Amanda from Bucket List Seekers

Read More: 150 Incredible Australia Bucket List Experiences you must not miss!

#2 | Bellarine Peninsula

Driving Time from Melbourne:  1 hour 30 minutes

• Anchor Geelong
• Barwon Heads Resort
• Starhaven Retreat

The picture-perfect Bellarine Peninsula is a hidden gem just 90 kilometres southwest of Melbourne. It’s a beautiful sleepy place with a charming laid-back vibe, only 1.5 hours drive from the city, and is possibly one of the most underrated Melbourne weekend getaways!  

The region is dotted with tiny fishing villages and historic seaside towns, each with its own individual character. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand along wide boulevards, visit galleries and vintage shops, admire some of Australia’s oldest buildings, and grab a coffee from one of the many cafes.  

The Bellarine is one of the largest grape-growing regions in Victoria with  top-notch wineries  offering incredible cold climate wines and spectacular ocean views.  Enjoy a romantic afternoon picnic amongst the vines and soak up panoramic views across the sparkling bay.  

In the evening, hop on board the  Q Train  an award-winning restaurant that travels along the historic Bellarine Railway for a multi-course degustation feast. Alternatively, enjoy a blues-inspired meal and party the night away on board the  Blues Train  with live entertainment in four carriages. Then spend the night in a cute  B&B , heritage-listed  inn , or a  grand old hotel .

Recommended by Audrey Chalmers From See Geelong

#3 | Twelve Apostles

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 4 hours

• Southern Ocean Villas
• Port O’ Call Motel
• Southern Anchorage Retreat
• Anchors Port Campbell

There are many beautiful and romantic getaways in Victoria but the one that stands out the most is the Twelve Apostles. It’s also one of the most popular weekend trips from Melbourne as the 4-hour drive takes you along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia.

The Twelve Apostles are wonderful as it is part of the larger trip of  driving the Great Ocean Road . What better way to spend some time together admiring one of  Australia’s most celebrated landmarks .

To make the Twelve Apostles even more romantic, plan your visit during sunset. They provide a jaw-dropping view as the sky changes between fiery red, deep orange and a splash of purple. It is a truly gorgeous site seeing the cliffs protruding out of the sea with the sweet noise of the ocean breeze keeping you and your loved one company.

Skip the fancy expensive meal in our opinion. Make it extra romantic and set yourself up for a little picnic as you watch the sun go down.

If you can’t make it for sunset, we would recommend visiting outside the 12-2 pm range, as this is when it can get busy with tourists visiting on day tours from Melbourne.

Recommended by Kerrie & Woody from  Just Go Travelling

Read More: Driving the Great Ocean Road Itinerary & Road Trip Guide

#4 | The Yarra Valley

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 45 minutes

• Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley
• Botanica Editions
• Chateau Yering

One of the most popular spots for couples to get away on a romantic weekend trip from Melbourne is the Yarra Valley. Located only a 45-minute drive east of Melbourne, if you are a foodie or wine-lover looking for a romantic escape then you must add a trip to the Yarra Valley to your bucket list !

The Yarra Valley is known as one of the premier wine-producing regions in Victoria and Australia. Yering Station is a crowd favourite. Within the expansive grounds, you can see where the wine is made and stored before settling into some fine dining in the restaurant.

If you’re seeking something a little more intimate for your romantic time away, take a wander next door to the  Chateau Yering . This beautiful 5 Star Hotel is set amongst heritage-listed gardens and is knowns as one of the best luxury romantic getaways in Victoria, with one of the best fine dining establishments – Eleonores Restaurant. All suites are furnished with antiques, fireplaces, marble ensuites, spa baths and four-poster beds. Add to that fabulous views, and you’ll find yourself in romantic Victorian getaway heaven.

Yarra Glen town is just a short drive from Yering and is home to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. Head into the coffee shop for more great views of the Yarra Valley and a hot chocolate with a warmed chocolate brownie – you can never have too much chocolate on a romantic weekend away!

After eating and drinking your way through the Yarra Valley, why not check out some of the other activities on offer. You can see the animals at the Healesville Sanctuary, ride the Puffing Billy Steam Train, hire a bike and ride the Warburton Rail Trail, hike one of the many trails, or take a ride in a hot air balloon. Romance is calling you to the Yarra Valley!

Recommended by Sharyn from Live Work and Play in Australia

#5 | Victorian High Country

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 3 to 4 hours

• QT Falls Creek
• 187 Merrijig
• Mt Bellevue

From stunning mountains and valleys, to cosy alpine resorts and a vast array of mountain biking trails, the Victorian High Country is a great place for an active weekend getaway from Melbourne.

Located about 3 to 4 hours drive from the city, Melbourne couples will not only find adventurous things to do in the High Country, but it also offers some great wineries, restaurants, farm gates, and an amazing craft brewery scene. Check out Pizzini Winery, Bright Brewery, or the King Valley’s Prosecco Road, which as you guessed, features a number of great prosecco wine producers. 

If you’re keen to get away for a skiing mini-break, then Victoria’s High Country is the perfect place to plan your next weekend trip from Melbourne in the wintertime. Head to one of the popular alpine resorts such as Hotham, Mt Buller, or Falls Creek. In the summertime, head to the High Country for s spot of hiking, mountain biking or take a dip in one of the High Country’s beautiful swimming holes.

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 2 hours

• Lorne World
• La Perouse Lorne
• Great Ocean Road Resort

Lorne  is a lively town located along the  Great Ocean Road  and is known for being one of the best Victorian weekend getaways. Located just under 2 hours from Melbourne CBD, Lorne’s beautiful beaches, quaint boutique shops and restaurants make it a popular destination for a weekend trip from Melbourne, attracting a mix of Victorians, interstate holidaymakers and international travellers alike.

Lorne’s main beach is perfect for both swimming and surfing. You can spend a full day here with your sweetheart lounging on the beach but when you are ready to stretch your legs, walk over to the Lorne Pier. Located on the western edge of town, you’ll typically find the beach lined with fishermen who are more than happy to show off their catch. Take a beach stroll at sunset and watch the colours cascade across the water around you at Lorne Pier.

Another great spot is Teddy’s Lookout which is located just a short drive (or hike) from town. It’s one of the loveliest lookout points along the  Great Ocean Road , nestled in the mountainside with vistas out over the river emptying into the ocean. Often you can find koalas snoozing overhead on the short walk from the car park. 

For a romantic evening out, head to Movida, an Italian restaurant with great wine and locally sourced ingredients. 

Recommended by Alanna from the Great Ocean Road Collective

#7 | Phillip Island

Driving Time from Melbourne:  2 hours 30 minutes

• Glen Isla House
• Saltwater Breeze Retreat

Phillip Island is about 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne and is a great place to visit for a day trip or better still, a weekend getaway with your main squeeze. 

One of the main tourist attractions on Phillip Island is the Penguin Parade, regularly referred to as Victoria’s Number 1 tourist attraction. Many tourists from around the world visit each night to watch the little penguins (formally referred to as fairy penguins) waddle their way from the water to their little nests up in the beach scrub.

Phillip Island has much more to offer than just penguins though. Churchill Island is a working farm where city folk get to experience what life on the farm would have been like in the 1800s. The historic homestead is as it was in the late 1800s and is a great insight into life for our ancestors.

Another great experience for weekend-seekers is the Koala Conservation Centre, this is a home for sick and injured koalas and the boardwalk there is built for optimum viewing of our famous native marsupials. If you get there early in the day you might just see these furry little guys up and about. 

Phillip Island is a great destination for couples, families and anyone really. But you probably want to allow at least a few days to  check out all it has to offer .

Recommended by Sally from Our 3 Kids V the World

#8 | Mornington Peninsula

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 1 hour

• Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
• RACV Cape Schanck Resort
• Sapphire Shores Luxury Retreat

One of the most popular places for a romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne is the Mornington Peninsula, most likely due to its proximity to the city. The Mornington Peninsula is only an hour’s drive from the CBD, making it a great option if you’re wanting to plan a short trip from Melbourne. If you don’t have a car, you can even get there on public transport!

From miles of vineyards, hiking adventures, and next-level natural spas, Mornington Peninsula has a lot to offer – and that’s before even mentioning the stunning stretches of coastal scenery. You can break up the drive by stopping off at Brighton Beach Boxes, Mount Martha, or one of the ample white-sand bays. 

If you’re an outdoorsy type, head to Point Nepean National Park for hiking and exploration. Take on the wartime tunnels or marvel at the views from the edge of the peninsula. Cape Schanck is also well worth a stop for the boardwalk winding around the red rocks and photogenic lighthouse, as is the London Bridge rock formation.

For the ultimate romantic scene, check out one of the many wineries, such as  Merricks Creek Cellar Door  or  Pt. Leo Estate , to sample the local wine and food before wandering around the gardens.  Peninsula Hot Springs  is a ‘must do’! The natural hot pools here are beautifully laid out to offer up fantastic views over the surroundings while you soak.

Finish off your weekend in Sorrento. Enjoy strolling around the historical buildings, beach boardwalks to Diamond Bay, and sampling the local restaurants.

Recommended by Cassie from Cassiethehag

#9 | Apollo Bay

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 3 hours

• Chocolate Gannets
• Seafarers Getaway
• Apollo Bay Guest House

Apollo Bay, located on Victoria’s southern coast is a gorgeous seaside town on the  Great Ocean Road  and is probably one of the most popular Melbourne weekend trips available. 

Just a short 3-hour drive from Melbourne (depending on the traffic), Apollo Bay provides a great base to explore all the attractions the area has to offer. From hiking and chasing waterfalls in the Otway Rainforest, to viewing the incredible limestone stacks in Port Campbell Marine Park (such as the Twelve Apostles, London Arch and Loch Ard Gorge). 

Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the Apollo Bay Coastal Trail or visit Mariners Lookout to admire the winding coastline or dip their toes in the (often freezing cold) Southern Ocean – one way to make you feel truly alive! 

For the wildlife lovers, keep your eyes peeled for Koalas in the trees as you drive along the road down to the Cape Otway Lightstation; or if you are heading back from the 12 Apostles, stop by Lavers Hill in the evening and see the Glowworms. For more inspiration, and things to do in Apollo Bay, check out this  Great Ocean Road Map  featuring everything from natural wonders, surf spots, waterfalls, spas and more!

After all that exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the selection of restaurants and bars within walking distance of the main street and beer lovers should be sure to stop by the  Great Ocean Road Brewhouse  to grab a tasting paddle. 

And if beer isn’t your thing, Apollo Bay is home to the only  Gin Distillery  along the Great Ocean Road. It’s got an amazing vibe and a fantastic food menu – their pizzas are incredible!

Recommended by Vicki from Great Ocean Road Guide

#10 | Bendigo

• Alexandra Place
• Quality Hotel Lakeside
• Balgownie Estate Bendigo

Bendigo was one of the central points of the gold rush back in the 1850s and while you will find gold mining tours available this doesn’t exactly scream romance. But Bendigo is one of those completely under-the-radar romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne. 

The  Hotel Shamrock  is a grandiose structure that is 150+ years old and is one building in town that provides a similar 19th-century experience that offers a great base for your romantic weekend away.

From here you can wander the surrounding streets to see more of this old-style architecture that gives Bendigo its unique character, from the imposing Town Hall building in the centre of town to the smaller shop fronts with lattice-covered awnings. A small but pleasant botanical garden is also nearby with the highlight being the large tower at the top of the hill that offers the best views in the district.  

Through the middle of it all runs a vintage tram line. This will take you out to Lake Weeroona and the Joss Temple. These are activities more suited to couples that let you stroll around at your own pace to explore amongst some pleasant surroundings.

After a day exploring the town, check out the great wineries on the fringe of town. You can to a self-drive itinerary or jump on a tour that will take you to three different cellar doors so you can enjoy the day without worry.

Recommended by James from  teamajtravels.com

#11 | Mildura

Driving Time from Melbourne:  Approximately 6 hours

• Mildura Golf Resort
• Indulge Apartments
• The Stable on Olive

If you’re looking for a couples getaway in Victoria that’s a little further from the city, Mildura has seclusion down pat. Whether your idea of romance is wining and dining or a bit of adventure,  Mildura  has you covered.

For food and wine, your first stop should be Langtree Avenue – known locally as Feast Street. There are alfresco dining areas, shady street trees and everything from fine dining to cafes. For more wine, try  Trentham Estate  with its river views or  Sunraysia Cellar Door  where you can sample over 200 local wines.

When you visit a river town you have to go on a paddle steamer (or perhaps  stay on one ). These historic old boats are perfect for taking in the scenery and relaxing. Watch the river go by on a lunch or sunset cruise. For something more active, a dusk paddle on Kings Billabong is fantastic. Glide between black swans and pelicans as the sky changes colour at dusk.

A sunset tour of Mungo National Park is also a great experience. Only 90 minutes from Mildura, the arid, other-worldly landscape is striking at sunrise and sunset.  Mungo Lodge  is a great base to explore the area.

Recommended by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

#12 | Grampians National Park

• Meringa Springs
• Boroka Downs
• Blaze Rock Retreat

Halls Gap is around 3 hours from Melbourne in the western districts of Victoria. The town is located in the magnificent Grampians National Park, making it one of the best secluded romantic getaways in Victoria. From the flat semi-arid countryside to the step-rising mountains with their rock faces and alpine vegetation, the Grampians are simply stunning. 

For your  visit to Halls Gap , you’ll find no shortage of things to do in town and the surrounding area. Romantic walks to waterfalls, hand-holding strolls to lookouts and hiking are the most popular activities in the region. Some of the best waterfalls include McKenzie and Silverband falls. Those looking for a view head to the Pinnacles with its all-encompassing views of the western districts. 

There are a number of great wineries where you can try the local varieties and match them with some world-class local produce. The local brewery,  Papers Scissors Rock  serves some great craft beer and bar food while the Spirit of Punjab serves some of the best Indian food west of Melbourne. 

Looking for something fun to do? Try the  Grampians Adventure Golf , the self-proclaimed best mini golf course in Victoria. Or make it one of the most unique weekend getaways in Victoria, by following the  Silo Art Trail .

Recommended by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Read More: Top 50 Most Famous Landmarks in Australia to Visit

#13 | Lakes Entrance

• The Esplanade Resort and Spa
• Bellevue On The Lakes
• Kalimna Woods Cottages

Lakes Entrance is the capital of the Gippsland lakes located 322 kilometres east of Melbourne. In spite of its distance from the CBD, Lakes Entrance offers one of the best Victorian getaways for couples, because of its beautiful beaches and romantic  seaside accommodation .

Ninety Mile Beach runs parallel to the lakes system allowing access to both the lakes and the ocean. Lakes Entrance is aptly known because it is the only place on the coast where the ocean meets the lake via an entrance. This makes Lakes Entrance a hotspot for ocean creatures. You’ll regularly see seals and dolphins. The Burrunan Dolphins are not found anywhere else on earth besides the lakes system of Gippsland. 

Romantic walks along the waterfront, cosy dinners in local seafood restaurants and drinking wine at the Wyanga Park Winery are a must do on a couples weekend away. The Lakes are popular for boating, fishing and all types of water sports. There are day cruises that can take you around the Gippsland lakes or even up to the winery. 

Other nearby towns on the lakes system to visit include Metung and Paynesville. The famous Raymond Island Koala walk is easily accessed from Paynesville. Whatever you’re into, you’re sure to find plenty of  things to do in Lakes Entrance  on your romantic weekend getaway from Melbourne.

Recommended by Bec from Travels in Gippsland

Looking to explore further afield?  Here’s a list of Australia’s top  50+ famous Landmarks  or 150 Incredible Australian Bucket List experiences to inspire you to discover more of this beautiful country! Also check out our  Weekend Getaway Guides  from other Australian destinations such as Brisbane ,  Sydney , Perth , and Tasmania .

Ready to Book Your Next Weekend Trip from Melbourne?

Victoria is arguably one of the most beautiful states in Australia . There are so many places for a romantic weekend getaway in Victoria that are within driving distance from Melbourne. No doubt there’s a spot on this list that is perfect for you and your significant other to enjoy!

We hope this list of the best romantic weekend getaways has inspired you to plan your escape from Melbourne ASAP and enjoy a little bit well deserved RnR with your main squeeze.

Have we missed a spot?  Can you recommend any other great romantic getaways Melbourne couples would love to check out, let us know in the comments below!

Planning to explore more of Australia? Read on for inspiration:

• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia
• 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
• 15 Weekend Getaways from Sydney
• 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria
• 8 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Perth for Couples
• 15 Best Weekend Trips from Brisbane
• 9 Places for a Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tasmania
• Ultimate 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

Did You Know?  We use ads and affiliate links on this website. When you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that helps us pay the bills to keep running this blog as a free resource. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you’re planning to book a trip soon, please consider clicking through the links above, so that we can continue to provide free travel guides, just like this one! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.

About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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• 10 Romantic Things To Do In Melbourne

Couple Things To Do In Melbourne

Here are some of the best romantic things to do in melbourne:, quick navigation.

Picnic At Royal Botanic Gardens

• A picnic date with your special someone at the Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne. 
• You will adore the scenery along the Ornament Lake and be able to sense the romance in the air amidst the carpet of lush greenery and blooming flowers. 
• Additionally, there is a Tan Track that circles the Royal Botanical Gardens where you can stroll romantically hand in hand while taking in the breathtaking panorama. Location: Private Bag 2000, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra, Melbourne Victoria 3141. Timings: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Experience Hot Air Balloon Flight

• Talk to the skies with Melbourne hot air ballooning, one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne for couples. 
• Aside from the once-in-a-lifetime experience of floating above the city for an hour at sunrise, taking in all the sights painted in dreamy colours with your partner will leave you mesmerised.
• After your hot air balloon ride, you will be able to enjoy a traditional Champagne breakfast for two at any upscale hotel in the city centre, making it one of the best date ideas. Activity Charges: $1,060 for 2 adults onwards.

Witness City From Melbourne Skydeck

• Catch unobstructed views of the panoramic scenery of Melbourne city with your partner through the enormous glass windows of the 88th-floor Eureka Tower Skydeck. 
• Enter the glass cube off the Edge to experience the most romantic couple things to do in Melbourne to take in the sweeping views under your feet. 
• Make your date extraordinary by booking an exclusive Sky High Romance package, Cocktails in the Clouds package, or Eureka 89 dinner that offers an exclusive arrangement for two. Location: 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank Victoria 3006. Timings: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Entry Fees: $28 per adult onwards.

Sip Wine At Yarra Valley

• Visit the Yarra Valley with your partner to discover the 170-year history of the region and take part in one of the most fun things to do in Melbourne for couples. 
• Enjoy world-renowned wines, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes while having both a romantic experience and an epicurean adventure. 
• Enjoy the opportunity to sample a variety of wines and other beverages at one location. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the Yarra Valley Shiraz are some of Australia's best locations that will leave an indelible impression on your hearts. Location: Level 1, 177-179 Maroondah Highway, Healesville Victoria 3777.

Go On A Melbourne River Cruise

• Choose a day cruise to enjoy a romantic sail over the Yarra River and admire the beauty of Melbourne with its lush landscape and stunning skyline. Alternatively, take an evening cruise under the blanket of stars, admiring the city skyline as it comes to life with a million lights. 
• Hire a private boat to soak up the weather, the surrounding panorama, and the romantic aura around with your partner. 
• Regardless of which cruise you choose for your date, the exquisite food and wine will enhance the experience, making it one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne.

Take The Romantic Horse & Carriage Tour

• Ride through Melbourne's historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage while taking in the scenery and the atmosphere and learning about the history of the city from your guide cum driver. 
• Travel in style as you pass by the Queen Victoria Gardens, the Princess Bridge, and many other attractions while seated comfortably in a cushioned carriage with a throw available if you get cold. 
• Enjoy a glass of Champagne and a red rose as part of this romantic cruise. This picturesque tour of Melbourne's central business district will certainly be one of your special couple things to do in Melbourne. Activity Charges: $120 per carriage onwards.

Take The Peninsula Hot Spring Spa

• Take a trip to the Mornington Peninsula's award-winning geothermal hot springs and day spa, Peninsula Hot Springs, to relax and experience bliss amidst nature. 
• Book a couple spa sessions to indulge in balancing therapies and signature treatments and experience the most romantic things to do in Melbourne. 
• Feel refreshed and rejuvenated with medium-pressured relaxation massages, facials, and body treatments. Take a geothermal bath before your spa treatment for maximum benefit. Location: 140 Springs lane, Fingal 3939 Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia. Timings: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Activity Charges: $35 per adult onwards for bathing sessions and $250 per adult onwards for spa sessions.

Experience Melbourne Sunset Kayak Tour

• Take in the city's sights and romance in the air as the sun sets and the city comes alive while kayaking down Melbourne’s Yarra River, one of the romantic things to do in Melbourne. 
• Meet your tour guide just before sunset in Victoria Harbour, and after a brief safety discussion and paddling technique lesson on dry land, and then set out to explore the area. 
• Witness sunset and click some stunning couple pictures with the backdrop of sunset that is gonna hit on social media.
• Enjoy a delightful dinner while seated in your kayaks for a unique on-the-water dining experience. Entry Fees/Activity Charges: $154 for two onwards.

Go To Melbourne Crown Casino

• Plan a memorable night out in Melbourne with a visit to the renowned Crown Casino and try your luck at games like baccarat, blackjack, pai gow, craps, poker, and roulette. 
• Play a few hands of poker for one of the most romantic things to do in Melbourne and everlasting memories. 
• Reserve a night of luxury at the casino and an overnight stay at the Crowne Plaza to upgrade your experience. When you've had your fill of casino games, retire to your Crowne Plaza Melbourne room to unwind while taking in the breathtaking views of the water. Location: 1-5 Spencer Street, Docklands, Victoria 3008.

Take The Helicopter Ride

• Make your Melbourne trip extra special with a private helicopter ride for two and enjoy one of the most exciting and romantic things to do in Melbourne with your special someone. 
• Taking in the sights of Melbourne CBD, valleys, skyscrapers, and MCG will make your flying experience both scintillating and romantic. 
• Upgrade your experience by adding a delicious three-course lunch with matched wines. Enjoy yourself while indulging, and when you're done, come home with wonderful memories of the sights, love, and food. Timings: Friday to Monday: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.

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People Also Ask About Melbourne

Which are the best things to do in melbourne for couples.

• Take a Hot air balloon ride
• Watch a show at the Melbourne Theatre Company
• Night kayak on the Yarra River
• Karaoke at Ichi Ni Nana
• Learn to Salsa Dance
• Reserve a Drink History Tour
• Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise
• Take a romantic horse and carriage ride

What makes Melbourne a couple-friendly tourist place?

What is the best time to visit melbourne, how many days are enough to explore melbourne, how to reach melbourne.

• By Air: The city is connected to significant global metropolises by Melbourne International Airport. Taxis, the Skybus, shuttles, the Greenbus, and other forms of public transportation make it simple for city residents to reach the airport.
• By Train: The NSW Trainlink, VLine, and Great Southern Rail all stop at Southern Cross Station.
• By Bus: Firefly Express and Greyhound run interstate buses, while V-Line runs intrastate buses that connect Victoria's smaller towns.

What are the famous activities to do in Australia that you can book via Thrillophilia?

• Cruise Sydney Harbour
• Skydiving in New Castle
• Big Bus Sydney Hop on Hop off Tour
• Sydney Tower Buffet
• Whale Watching Sydney
• Skydiving Gold Coast
• Tree Top Challenge Mount Tamborine
• Hot Air Ballooning In Melbourne
• Yarra Valley Wine Tours
• Melbourne River Cruise

What are some of the best Australia tours on Thrillophilia?

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Melbourne Top Attractions

All great cities in the world have great icons. And that icon is a point of recognition for it. And that’s what Eureka Tower is for Melbourne. It is a glistening, urban skyscraper in the modern, cosmopolitan city of Melbourne. It was named after the Eureka Stockade, which was a rebellion during the Victorian gold rush in 1854 and it is one of the famous places to visit in Melbourne.The Eureka Tower is more than just a tall building, it is a popular tourist spot. The tower stands tall at 297 meters (975 ft.). The building is gold-plated and is next to the Yarra River, in the center of the Southbank precinct. The top 10 floors have 24 carat (99.9%) gold plated glass windows. There is a constant system of pumps moving water between the two 300,000-liter tanks so it can beat the wind-induced oscillations.What makes this a very popular spot for tourists is the fantastic view from the Eureka Towers. From the top floors, one can get unrivaled views. This also happens to be the highest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. There are a whole lot of things that you can do here. In fact, the towers also have a range of activities available for everyone from kids to adults. There are interactive games, one can dine here and also do some shopping.These towers are more than just a tourist spots. You get to experience going up at speed -- quite enthralling. Plus, there’s something very soothing about being at a spectacular height. It still remains to be the third tallest building in Australia, with the Q1 in Queensland and Australia 108 leading the way.Checkout and Book Now: Eureka Skydeck Tickets

Luna Park, the oldest amusement park of Melbourne was built in 1912. It is brimming with various brand new thrilling rides to satisfy all the thrill seekers and is a destination for all Melbourne families as well as tourists. With existing for over 100 years, Luna Park in St. Kilda is the most renowned and adored theme park without a doubt. Roller Coaster is the most cherished attraction of the Park. The spectacular and large wooden coaster takes passengers around the entire park at lightning speed and it is one of the best places to visit in Melbourne.Luna Park extends a range of attractions and rides for every age from their latest additions, the free revolving mini roller coaster Speedy Beetle and relaxing ferries wheel Moon Balloons, to old classics such as Dodgems and fidgety thrill rides like the Pharaoh’s Curse and Power Surge.You can not miss visiting Luna Park when exploring Melbourne, no matter what your age is. You can also plan a function like kid’s parties, weddings, engagement events and Christmas parties at Luna Park.It also provides free Wi-Fi to all the visitors for smooth connection. As Melbourne’s ultimate destination for fun, Luna Park is the perfect venue for your school’s end of year activity day, school program or the start of the school holidays.Click here to Book Now: Luna Park Tickets

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28 Romantic Getaways In Victoria That Are Perfect For A Trip Away

By Simon Cassar 22nd Mar 2024

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Whether you’re looking for a way to spend some quality time with your partner or are in search of a last-minute gift, nothing suggests romance quite like a getaway to some of Melbourne/Naarm and Victoria’s best spots. For good measure, we've also selected a handful of Guest Favourite properties,  a brand new Airbnb filter that lets you search for top-rated stays.

Victoria has a ton of undiscovered spots that you need to take full advantage of, but Urban List has done the hard work for you. Here are some of the most romantic getaways in Victoria for 2024:

The Cottage At Dunmore Farm

Molyullah .

Escape the urban jungle into the countryside at the  Cottage at Dunmore Farms . Only a short two-and-a-half-hour road trip out of the city you will find yourselves at a beautifully restored homestead that originates from 1860 sitting pretty on a former 150-acre dairy farm. High ceilings, restored hardwood floors, weatherboard walls and an original fireplace gives this homestead a warm feel despite its cool-toned colour palette. The picturesque valley of Victoria’s High Country will set the scene for your romantic getaway. 

The Pink House

Castlemaine.

Housed in an  1880s Miner's Cottage , this Castlemaine romantic getaway is a cozy escape with all the intimacy, and charisma you could ask for. The garden bungalow offers a secluded refuge with wooden floorboards, tall ceilings, and heating for those chillier winter nights. The local shops, cafes, and bars are just a short stroll away or you can opt to hang at home with the resident border collie, Chloë.

Bed And Breakfast At Adsum Farmhouse

Glenlyon .

Tucked away in the quieter suburb of Glenlyon in the Hepburn region, this quaint little stay at  Adsum Farmhouse  is a lock for a romantic getaway. Set with real country rustic charm, the house which originates back to the gold-rush era has been lovingly restored with plenty of modern creature comforts and even has breakfast included which is perfect for those slow Sunday mornings. 

The Hillplains 

Resting just outside of Castlemaine in the quieter suburb of Metcalfe,  The Hillplains  is a serious aesthetic retreat. The entire wooden barn-style stay has been immaculately designed, with clean lines, polished concrete floors, expansive views across the pool and a minimalist placing of furniture and artwork throughout. The pool is a stunning natural oasis with fresh water from the nearby mineral springs, it provides a stunning vista of the entire expansive range of country that slopes below and beyond the property.  Book it here . 

The Hideout 

Oozing with historical charm.  The Hideout  in Daylesford is a fully converted 1860s miner cottage that celebrates the old while still tailoring itself to modern-day desires. With a rich soulful interior, this romantic stay is loaded with a large open-plan kitchen and living room, rich blacks contrasted against the re-claimed wooden furnishings with a fireplace and modular couch overlooking the property. The sprawling deck is ideal for a wine and parking up in one of the hanging bamboo chairs suspended from the rooftop, or if the weather doesn't permit you can hop into the big stone bathtub with views of the outdoor garden and barn-style doors leading in and out   Book it here . 

You might also like:

• Melbourne's Best Luxury Hotels
• Melbourne's Best Date Ideas
• Melbourne's Best Restaurants

Under A Peppercorn Tree

The Bennett Suite

Set on 16 acres of stunning bushland that border the Wombat State Forest, the  Bennett suite  is a regional retreat just over an hour's drive from Melbourne. Equipped with everything you'd need for a romantic getaway the cosy quarters are still spacious enough with a king bed with high-end linen, private ensuite and a kitchenette—it's a breezy country escape without all the hassle. 

Otways Loft

Otways Loft is more of a romantic hideaway than a romantic getaway. The three-storied hand-built tree house is nestled amongst the treetops of Forrest, pretty much a scene out of a storybook. The craftsman responsible for the 80’s build lived on-site in a tin shed for five years sourcing materials from the region including remnants of an old train carriage and a nearby church. Retreat into the loft and discover the unique nooks of the home or explore the Forrest region’s rainforest and waterfalls. Equipped with both a cosy fireplace and a breezy balcony, there really is no bad season to visit the Otways Loft.

Hillrise Cottage

Grampians .

Image credit: Airbnb | Supplied by host

Set on a hill above the gum trees with breathtaking views of the Grampians,  Hillrise Cottage  has a sense of tranquillity that you just can’t find at urban hotels. This is one of the best romatnic getaway spots if you’re trying to get back to nature. Here you can fish for yabbies in the dam, collect fallen wood for the fireplace, use the properties telescope to spot constellations and stroll the six-acre property in search of wildlife. Or, you can take advantage of Hillrise Cottage’s prime location and venture out to Ararat and Halls Gap to explore the townships and winery hop.

Josephine 

Wyelangta .

Josephine is the picture-perfect luxury getaway for two with prime positioning on the Otway Ridge. Its interior is sleek and minimal, making the jaw-dropping scenery from the panoramic windows the main attraction. If you’re an outdoorsy couple you can take advantage of the five acres and close proximity to the Great Ocean Road by hiking and biking the serene surroundings. Or, if you’d prefer to retreat into the home you can start up the wood fireplace and sit back with a glass of vino to soak up the sunsets through the wall-sized windows.

Kirkness Sanctuary House 

Bonbeach Bliss

Bonbeach .

For an idyllic seaside escape, it's hard to look past Bonbeach Bliss . The sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay will be the backdrop to your romantic getaway at this contemporary beach pad which has been fitted out with polished hardwood floors, sleek white furniture, as well as indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces. Stay in and utilise the private rooftop deck with a romantic home-cooked meal for two. Retreat to the balcony of an evening to enjoy a nightcap together while ogling the panoramic ocean views. 

Milk And Honey 

Here's a spot where the accommodation is just as good as the name. The  Milk and Honey cottage  is located in Daylesford, about a 2-hour drive out of Melbourne. Access the property via a gorgeous winding stairway with epic views over the surrounding countryside. Milk and Honey is only a few minutes walk from the Daylesford shops, and it's perfect if you're after that lazy getaway (with civilisation within arm's reach). Two light-filled bedrooms, an open fireplace, slick bathrooms and a full kitchen complete the picture.

Y Vue Apartment 

Down on the Great Ocean Road, the  Y Vue apartment   is nestled on the point of Wye River. This exquisite little spot is snug but has everything you’d want in a romantic getaway , with a cosy apartment that feels more like a wood cabin, tucked right into the hill just metres from the water. With a stunning balcony that looks out onto the entire bay and an incredible spa that is jetting right out; you can soak while endless waves roll into the sleepy little surf town. 

Liptrap Loft 

Walkerville.

Liptrap Loft  is one of the best romantic getaway Airbnbs, set amongst the leafy surroundings of South Gippsland just thirty minutes from the stunning Wilsons Promontory, this house has been crafted with recycled tin and timber, and keeps you comfy and cosy against those wintery elements. It has retro features like a 1960’s style oven and stove but its crown jewel is the outdoor Japanese bathhouse with a tiled tub with exposed pipes and views of the surrounding valley.

Tulum 

You’ve surely come across the incredibly aesthetic  Tulum  in your searches for a getaway. The pristinely curated stay has been architecturally designed and is the very definition of beach-chic. Located in Ballnarring on the Mornington Peninsula,  Tulum  provides a romantic getaway like few others; nestled conveniently in one of Victoria’s best wine regions you’re only a short drive to award-winning wineries and cellar doors. The black-painted exterior opens up into a light-filled white-washed oasis, where each feature has been cleverly considered; crafting a perfect contrast of balanced shades and colours to keep you at ease. 

Tea Tree Hill

A classic representation of the modern Australian beach shack, the Tea Tree Hill stay is a romantic getaway like none other. Adorned in bespoke furniture both locally sourced and imported vintage European pieces; there’s a serious laid-back aesthetic to the entire space. Situated in the idyllic Venus Bay , it has a dreamy seclusion feel to it; whether you’re soaking in the freestanding outdoor tub or taking in the stars from the deck, it's one hell of a romantic getaway.

The Deckhouse 

What makes The Deckhouse so good? Well for starters it’s positioned up in the hills of Wye River and its wooden deck gives an absolutely spanking view of the coast. The secluded spot on the Great Ocean Road provides the ultimate romantic getaway and is only a short stroll from the water and the quaint gem that is Wye River. The house is an open-plan dream and the floor-to-ceiling windows provide views through every room except the ensuite, is it one of the best romantic getaways Victoria has? We’ll let you decide. 

The Wensley

Wensleydale.

Wensley’s self-described ‘rustic luxury’ couldn’t be more accurate, the worn wooden farm-style building conceals one of the most carefully curated spaces you’ll find, a big contender for the best romantic getaway in Victoria. Inside you’ll experience a country-style aesthetic with dark stained timber flooring, exposed beams, with leather and cane furniture throughout. The indoor fireplace and surrounding lounge look out onto the fields and a wide dinner table leads into the refined yet state-of-the-art kitchen with thoughtful additions that add to The Wensley’s overall laid-back feel. 

Cape Schanck House  

Cape schanck.

If you’re a couple all about design then Cape Schanck House is the romantic getaway for you. The award-winning stay took out best house at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects awards. Located in the quiet region of Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula, this stay is only minutes away from date spots like pristine ocean beaches, wineries, and the famed lighthouse walk. Inside the white and black colour scheme let the surrounding tree life shine, the living room is centered around a waterdrop sculpture that extends from the room to the floor, and a curved leather lounge looks onto a wide fireplace. Its minimalist style provides the perfect backdrop for a quiet getaway, time to enjoy the simpler things.

Contemporary Barn

The Contemporary Barn was designed especially with couples in mind to host the perfect romantic getaway. The entire space is reminiscent of a conservatory with its open floor plan and restored schoolhouse windows which bathe the barn in natural light. The only catch is, inside the barn is a shoe-free zone which should be a pro for fellow cleanliness heads. The interior design and curation of the stay is only made better by the barn's central location. You’ll be situated within walking distance from all the cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars you could want.

Killala Retreat 

The private sanctuary that is Killala Retreat is located directly across from Otway National Park. It’s very much a country-style home but its eclectic interior design has made the space feel anything but stuffy. With original artworks, a central wood fire heater, country-style kitchen and a vista overlooking the hills above the township, you’re both sure to feel right at home. There is also something to be said about Killala Retreat's prolific garden which makes it the perfect destination for the outdoorsy couple.

Marges Cottage

Poowong east.

Marge’s Cottage is part of a family-owned dairy farm and has been carefully restored piece by piece using local craftsmen to its former charm. Nothing says romantic getaway quite like soaking in a rainwater bath, enjoying a glass of red by the fire or watching the sunset from the verandah with your special someone. This rural retreat is maybe one of Victoria’s most beautiful cottages located in South Gippsland. Escape to this private haven for some quality time together where it’s all too easy to unwind, relax and recharge. 

A Dam Good View

Dixons creek.

Riversdale Retreat

Why not combine your romantic getaway in Victoria with a country escape and book a stay at Riversdale Retreat . This Chewton spot was designed with the eco-friendly and ultra-modern couple in mind. The home is equipped with solar hot water,  a rainwater tank and is super insulated. While the home is environmentally friendly it certainly does not compromise on design with its Tatami lounge area and Japanese-style bathroom. If you're both nature lovers you will be sure to enjoy the privacy of the home being surrounded by bushland on three sides. 

Restored Miners Cottage 

Shepards hill.

Located in Shepherds Hill right next to a working alpaca farm, the Restored Miners Cottage is the perfect romantic getaway for the couple looking for a country escape in Victoria. The alpaca wool quilts, throws and blankets along with the wood-burning heater will ensure your stay is a cozy one. Your private garden is positioned right next to the alpaca nursery paddock so while your cottage is booked just for two you can expect the additional company of baby alpacas. 

The Sky Pod is maybe the most picturesque romantic getaway in Victoria. The off-grid pod has floor-to-ceiling windows surrounding the queen-sized bed for you and your significant other to catch the sunset over the ocean and stargaze throughout the night. Here you can take movie night to the next level with the 100-inch projector that you can enjoy from the warmth of your bed. This secluded hideaway means you can appreciate each other's company from the privacy of your pod while being just a stroll away from the Great Ocean Walk, Beach Station and Rainbow Falls. 

Vintage House

Hepburn springs.

The elegant but understated Vintage House sits on almost an acre of land surrounded by fruit trees, creating the perfect setting for a romantic getaway in Victoria. The lounge room invites you in to relax with its chesterfield couches and oversized arched windows surrounding an open wood fireplace. But it's definitely the stark white bedroom with a king-size linen-covered bed and vintage clawfoot tub that says romantic getaway. If you’re savvy in the kitchen you should be sure to take advantage of the property's edible garden by picking fresh herbs and garlic to whip up a romantic dinner for two. 

Callingee II Eco Bush Retreat

Quite literally part of the  Grand Designs family , having been one of the first houses of the Australian series, this  romantic getaway  in Victoria’s Gippsland is just gorgeous. It’s 100% off-the-grid both sustainably, powered with renewable energy and literally as it’s positioned out in the lush bushlands; around 20 minutes from Traralgon. The property is set on 5 acres and is an architectural marvel with exposed rustic beams and weathered wooden decks with an oasis pool surrounded by native plants. 

Check out more of the best accommodation in Victoria here:

• Victoria's Best Airbnbs
• The Best Airbnbs In Metro Melbourne 
• Melbourne's Best Hotels

Main image credit: Airbnb | Supplied by host

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Romantic hotels Melbourne

Every couple deserves a romantic getaway every now and then. They are the perfect way to rekindle the romance, especially if you haven’t spent quality time together recently. The range of romantic getaways Melbourne wide are perfect to surprise your loved one with, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion. There is nothing more thoughtful than gifting time away together whether it be for a birthday, anniversary, Christmas, Valentine’s Day or anything in between.

You’ll find a wide variety of options available at RedBalloon when picking your couples getaway Melbourne. From a luxury overnight escape at a spa resort and boutique hotel package to a 5 star staycation in the city and cosy accommodation just for couples, you’re spoilt for choice. Discover some of the best romantic getaways Melbourne has to offer on RedBalloon and pick your dream holiday today!

Why choose a romantic getaway in Melbourne?

Melbourne is home to some of the most romantic hotel and accommodation options that are the perfect destination for spending uninterrupted time with your partner. There is so much to do in Melbourne perfect for couples, from their world class food scene to their famous art and culture. This city is great for helping recharge your batteries as you will discover beautiful, secluded spots to relax, unwind and spend quality time just the two of you. Alternatively, if you want to get out and about and explore, you can discover the amazing food and bar scene in the culinary capital of Australia. With so much variety, it’s hard to believe all these romantic, couples only getaways are in Melbourne!

Which is the best place for a romantic getaway in Melbourne?

There are so many amazing locations that are perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious couples escape or romantic hotels Melbourne wide. These include the city centre and Chinatown precinct, South Yarra, Hepburn Springs, Docklands, Prahan and St Kilda. If you’re up for a little road trip, you can enjoy a romantic getaway in the Mornington Peninsula, just a 60 minute drive out of Melbourne or even the Yarra Valley with an inclusive getaway departing from the city. Need a little help picking the best romantic hotels Melbourne has to offer for you and your partner? Listed below are some of our top selling experiences.

• Melbourne city escape with buffet breakfast : spoil your loved one with an overnight stay at the luxurious Pullman Melbourne on the Park, conveniently positioned near the city’s dining, sports and cultural precincts. Check into a lovely superior room, offering plush bedding, contemporary furnishings and city views, and enjoy a full buffet breakfast the following morning. It is one of the best overnight couples getaways Melbourne located right in the heart of the city.
• Luxury overnight getaway with dinner and massages : in need of some rest and relaxation? This is one of the best spa getaways that are perfect for you and your plus one. Situated on the Mornington Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Melbourne, you and your partner will indulge in luxury accommodation, a one-hour massage, two course dinner and gourmet breakfast, all in the beautiful surrounds of your estate. Is there anything more relaxing than enjoying massage getaways with your loved one?
• Luxurious overnight mansion getaway with breakfast : escape from your daily demands by immersing yourself and your partner in an overnight indulgence away from the hustle and bustle of life with a bed and breakfast at an idyllic, luxury mansion. This unique, boutique accommodation will have you living like a king and queen, even if it is just for a few days!
• Melbourne balloon flight and overnight stay : treat yourself and your partner to a hot air ballooning flight over Melbourne and one night’s luxury accommodation. This a wonderful way to show someone you love them and spend two memorable days together. Combine hot air ballooning magic with one of the best romantic hotels Melbourne has to offer!

What are the top romantic hotels Melbourne?

At RedBalloon, you’ll find some of the best romantic hotels Melbourne wide that are perfect for a couple’s getaway. These hotels include the Pullman Melbourne on the Park, Marriott Hotel, Rydges St Kilda, Hotel Lindrum, The Hotel Windsor, The Blackman and many other luxurious 5 star and boutique hotels.

How much does a romantic getaway in Melbourne cost?

You can find a range of romantic getaways in Melbourne all within your budget on RedBalloon. Starting at just $199 for a sunday city escape with sparkling wine and cheese platter, you can find a range of affordable and cheap romantic getaway deals online. These range through to $2,850 for a luxury mystery flight package for 4 nights, making it the ultimate romantic holiday for 2 people.

What romantic getaways in Melbourne do RedBalloon offer?

RedBalloon provides a wide variety of romantic getaways Melbourne wide. There is the perfect package to suit every couple regardless if they are looking for an action-packed weekend getaway or a relaxing escape to unwind together. At RedBalloon, you’ll find staycations and luxurious accommodation options located in the city centre, spa resorts that include massages and pampering packages, boutique hotels a short drive from the city, plus so much more. With the romantic getaways Melbourne has to offer, the options are endless! You will never be stuck for ideas again when it comes to choosing your dream escape with your loved one. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or want to surprise your partner with the ultimate Melbourne holiday, you’ll find the perfect romantic escape on RedBalloon.

Don’t know which romantic getaway to gift? Don’t worry! Why not give a RedBalloon gift voucher and let them decide their own perfect romantic getaway. They will love being able to choose it for themselves which guarantees they will pick an experience to remember. Starting at $25, gift vouchers can be made to any denomination and are valid for 5 years. They can be used on all our Melbourne romantic getaways, or if you want to make it a proper holiday out of it, they can be used on any of our packages Australia wide. If you have more time and want to make it the ultimate experience, why not browse through a whole range of romantic getaways . There are over 229 packages to choose from Australia wide including Perth, Hobart, Sydney and plenty more destinations.

Once you’ve booked in your romantic getaway in Melbourne, why not compliment it with some of amazing activities and things to do in the area, including plenty of amazing experiences for 2 . Whether you’re after a high tea , day spa package (or even a couple’s package ) or a hot air balloon ride , there is so much to enjoy during your getaway Find plenty of ideas with our range of things to do in Melbourne .

Looking for more getaway ideas? RedBalloon offers a variety of accommodation packages, perfect if you’re looking to get away with the family, friends or loved one. If you’re looking for getaway ideas based on location, discover our curated range of getaways in popular states. You can enjoy our range of:

• NSW getaways
• Victoria getaways
• Queensland getaways
• Tasmania getaways
• South Australia getaways
• Western Australia getaways

Australian Events, Lifestyle & Business

Romantic Getaways: Melbourne’s Best Love Nests To Visit For Couples

It might be challenging to organise a private and romantic getaway from Melbourne, especially if you don't have much time on your hands. On the other hand, the good news is that we've done some of the research for you by compiling a list of the most romantic retreats Victoria has to offer. Your romantic trip from Melbourne is guaranteed to be a success if you choose one of these couple's retreats located around the state of Victoria. Each of these retreats has been authorised by local experts.

There are many reasons why couples adore the romantic vacations that Melbourne has to offer. Some of these reasons include art, culture, and a dining scene that is on par with the best in the world. One thing is certain, though, and that is the fact that the city's global allure is imbued in all of the romantic settings found here, no matter how glitzy or rustic the setting may be.

When it comes to recharging your batteries, there is nothing quite like a romantic mini-break. Sure, overseas jaunts and interstate holidays might be lovely (when we can do them!), but there is nothing quite like it.

We have traversed the countryside of Victoria in search of picturesque and isolated locations where you and your significant other (or other people) may rest, unwind, and spend some quality time with one another. They are all reachable in a short amount of time by vehicle from Melbourne, so compile a playlist of love songs, fill up the tank, and plan a getaway for two.

You have likely been pent up at home for the better part of some time at this point, and as a result, you are probably seeking for a good peaceful area in regional Victoria in which to lay your head. And what could be a more enjoyable way to spend your time than squeezing your significant other into the backseat of your car and taking off for a weekend trip just the two of you?

The Langham Melbourne

Southgate Ave, Southbank

(03) 8696 8888

The Langham is a magnificent treat for those who like the excitement of the city, since it is located in the centre of the action, near to the Bourke Street Mall and the Crown Casino, and it provides guests with every culinary option imaginable. Upon entering, you are immediately enveloped in a sense of romanticism thanks to the majestic marble staircase, chandeliers, and fountains that greet you. There is an indoor pool, a spa, and the highly regarded "afternoon tea with Wedgwood" to look forwards to at this luxurious hotel . The rooms are elegant and overlook either the Yarra River or the city skyline.

Drift House

98 Gipps St. Port Fairy,Victoria 3284, Australia

03 5568 3309

The Drift House does an excellent job of combining a high degree of personal service with a variety of different architectural inspirations. Drift House is the ideal location to lay your head down in this verdant coastal community. It is located in the town of Port Fairy, which is so little that you might easily miss it if you blinked. It is a few kilometres past Warrnambool on the Great Ocean Road. Drift House is a collection of four boutique suites, each of which combines historical aesthetics with modern facilities with the type of style and quality you'd find at some of Melbourne's greatest five-star hotels. It is located only a short walk from the centre of town.

Colleen Guiney, an artist, and her partner, John Watkinson, saw an intriguing possibility in a derelict terrace home in the neighbourhood where they live. The bluestone building from the 1870s was two stories tall and had cast-iron lacework, stone walls, and wooden verandas that looked out over the Moyne River. It had a majestic appearance. But when they originally gained control of it, it had fallen into disrepair; it was a long cry from the design -driven B&B that currently resides in these Port Fairy apartments.

The Drift House does an excellent job of combining a high degree of personal service with a variety of different architectural inspirations. Drift House is the ideal location to lay your head down in this verdant coastal community. It is located in the town of Port Fairy, which is so little that you might easily miss it if you blinked. It is a few kilometres past Warrnambool on the Great Ocean Road.

Drift House is a collection of four boutique suites, each of which combines historical aesthetics with modern facilities with the type of style and quality you'd find at some of Melbourne's greatest five-star hotels. It is located only a short walk from the centre of town.

These suites are more like tiny apartments and provide a private getaway away from the commotion of the surrounding area. Each apartment features a distinctive selling proposition that capitalises on the older terrace building as well as the more recent and contemporary addition located in the backyard. Suite One is located on the first floor of the original bluestone structure and features an open fireplace as well as a luxurious stone bathroom with a large tub that shouts, "Treat yourself!" The Suite Two is located one story above the lobby and embodies the hotel industry's "three C's": commodiousness, cosiness, and character (it looks distinctly original with specially commissioned artwork surrounding the suite). Suite Three creates an appealing but private room to sit back and relax by maximising the use of light, space, and reclaimed materials. The height of the room, along with the towering windows, creates an atmosphere that is both open and unwinding in nature. The final and most contemporary option is suite number Four, which features an open floor layout that positions a spacious bathroom with in blue tiles next to the cosy king-sized bed.

However, a stay at the Drift House is about so much more than what it appears to be on the surface. This is a really accommodating way to spend one's time. You will be provided with charming breakfast hampers that include items like as bread and eggs produced from the area as well as delectable plum jam created from fruit harvested from the garden. You will also find two complimentary yoyo cookies waiting for you, courtesy of a local resident named Sandra Showlers, who, according to a sweet typed-up message, was the recipient of the major award at the Port Fairy Show for two consecutive years. You will also be given a two-page guide to experiencing the very best of Port Fairy in just 48 hours. This book will provide you with recommendations for restaurants, cellar doors (the Basalt Vineyard is a special treat), local hikes, and things that you should go see while you are in town.

It is very clear that they have worked with the structure of this home from the colonial era in order to build first-rate accommodations for the modern day. However, what truly sets this apart as a one-of-a-kind destination is the attention to detail that has been put into the accommodations here.

Drift House is located in Port Fairy on the Great Ocean Road, and it has six extremely private guest apartments that are spread out among many vintage structures as well as lovely contemporary expansions. Disconnect, ease into relaxation, and indulge in some well-deserved downtime in the lap of exquisite luxury at this enchanting boutique hotel.

Kudos Villas

4 Second St, Hepburn Springs

03 5972 1600

The Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve is the ideal location for a romantic getaway in the great outdoors, and the Kudos Villas are the perfect finishing touch. In the midst of wildlife-rich wilderness, nine self-contained cottages with names like "Kudos Bliss" and "Kudos Indulge" are waiting for you to discover them. Choose the Kudos Temple, which features an open fire place, raised party patio, and sunken spa as the centrepiece of the space. You will be presented with a gift basket that contains chocolates and beverages as a warm greeting from our company.

Woodlands Rainforest Retreat

137 Manby Rd, Narbethong

(03) 5967 7150

Melbourne couples are drawn to secluded and peaceful weekend retreats in the middle of the bush for their quest for an authentically romantic experience. The Woodlands Rainforest Retreat may be found on sixteen acres of untouched property that looks out over the fern-filled gullies of Heritage Creek. Cottages made of wood, furnished to a high standard, and completely equipped, with deep hot tubs and complete seclusion. Therefore, if you want to excite the person you care about the most, select the "Romantic Surprise" option, which includes lit tea candles, long-stemmed flowers, chocolates, Yarra Valley sparkling, and a rose petal trail.

4 King St, Daylesford

(03) 5348 3329

Sink into the peace of a lakeside location to appreciate the straightforward pleasures that life has to offer, all while being surrounded by an air of unquestionable elegance. Daylesford is famous for its spas, gourmet food, and wine; Lake House is located there. All of these things are offered at the retreat, in addition to outdoor patios, tennis courts, rural gardens, and a restaurant that has won several awards. The suites provide the all-important atmosphere with their rich, traditional furnishings, breathtaking vistas, and well curated art collections.

One of the most famous hotels in all of Victoria is the Lake House, which can be found in a picturesque location on the shores of Lake Daylesford. You can choose to spend the day getting pampered in the Lake House Spa before indulging in a delicious four-course meal served a la carte in the well regarded Lake House Restaurant. The icing on the cake is often that dinner is comprised of the cost of the overnight fee.

Casa Valeri

Brett Rd, Warburton

(03) 5966 5821

Casa Valeri, nestled in the rolling hills below Mount Victoria, offers guests a taste of the French region of Provence. The estate in the Mediterranean style is set amid verdant meadows, and there are hiking paths located close in the forest. Antiques, a limestone fireplace, iron chandeliers, a king-sized bed, a balcony, a veranda, and modern conveniences are all included in the room's luxurious appointments. Then, there is the calming garden with a fountain, rock features, olive trees, pines, and lavender for those days when you just want to relax.

Boroka Downs

51 Birdswing Rd, Halls Gap

(03) 5356 6243

The most memorable romantic vacations in Melbourne are those that take place against a backdrop of natural beauties. Boroka Downs is an adult-only resort that is environmentally conscious and is located on the outskirts of Grampians National Park . From this location, guests may climb, go animal spotting, and bike around the surrounding nature. When you go back, there will be a circular spa tub waiting for you, as well as windows that go all the way up to the ceiling, and cosy bathrobes.

Japanese Mountain Retreat

14 Mountain Crescent, Montrose

(03) 9737 0086

The Japanese Mountain Retreat has a very romantic atmosphere, complete with swimming beneath the stars, gourmet meals, waterfalls, and fairy-lit bamboo gardens. It is impossible for this environment not to make hearts aflutter. The spa has heaven-sent indoor and outdoor bathing rituals, including an Arabian Steam Temple and a Roman Bath House. The one-of-a-kind suites, which take their design cues from Japanese culture, give a secluded retreat.

Clifftop at Hepburn, Hepburn Springs

Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs - 3461

03 5321 6000

The Clifftop at Hepburn real estate development features a total of six luxury homes, each of which was created by a different architect and is exquisitely positioned on top of a cliff. These multi-award-winning villas have superb interior design, and they provide guests the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside while cuddling up in front of a cosy wood fire.

Wild Valley

105 Townsends Road, Budgeree, 3870 VIC

Wild Valley is an outrageously stunning 'glamping' destination that contains a collection of vintage caravans, perched on a ridge with panoramic views across Budgeree. The name of this destination is Wild Valley.

We propose that you get a room in the French Van from the 1970s. This bad boy has a French interior designed in the style of the 1970s and is furnished with antiques from France. You may get cosy by the fire pit outside, or you can snuggle up with your significant other on the queen-sized bed inside. The guests are invited to walk the 120 acres of verdant fields and are also urged to say hello to the alpacas who live there.

Lovers Lane Cottages

1495 Meeniyan-Mirboo N Rd, Dumbalk, VIC, 3956, Australia

The very name of it gives everything away. Lovers Lane is nestled away behind Leongatha and views the beautiful hills of South Gippsland from the comfort of numerous comfortable homes complete with a fireplace and luxurious modern conveniences. You may decide to spend the days with that special someone while soaking in the countryside, and that is a perfectly acceptable option. However, you might also choose to stop by the Grand Ridge Brewery for a drink or two before heading back to the spas that are included with each cottage. Book here.

Maplewood Cottage

One of our favourite places to spend the weekend is in Maplewood. It is in the picturesque Macedon Ranges, and it is situated on a quarter of an acre of quiet woods.

The rustic cottage contains one main bathroom, one bedroom located in the loft portion of the second story, an independent kitchen, and a sitting space. This spot is just perfect for a romantic getaway , since it is cloaked in old-world allure and graced with an abundance of peace and quiet. Have a drink of red wine and a platter of cheese while you relax in front of the crackling fire. In case you are hungry, the Mt. Macedon Hotel is just thirty metres down the road.

Mitchelton Winery

470 Mitchellstown Road, Nagambie 3608

The elegant Mitchelton Winery estate features not just a cellar door but also a high-end hotel, a restaurant, and an art gallery in addition to its renowned wine varieties. Since its founding in the late 1960s, the winery has amassed a number of accolades and accolades over the course of its existence, particularly for the quality of the riesling and shiraz varieties that it produces. Due to the fact that all of that alcohol may cause you to feel rather sleepy, we strongly recommend that you reserve a room at the adjacent Mitchelton Hotel for the night. There are fifty-five lovely guest rooms available for booking, and each one is chic, cosy, and cosy. With luxury bedding, quality bathroom items, and even a picture-perfect outdoor pool to recline in, it will seem as though you've walked into the pages of a design book. In addition, the contents of the mini bar at Mitchelton are provided free of charge (with the exception of alcoholic beverages), which is a wonderful perk for guests. Additionally, guests have the choice of sleeping in one of Mitchelton's airstream cabins, which were added to the property in the early part of 2021.

Milk And Honey

14 Hill St, 3460 Daylesford, Australia 

In this location, the quality of the accommodations lives up to the reputation of the establishment. Daylesford, which is around a two-hour drive from Melbourne, is where you'll find the Milk and Honey cottage. You may enter the home through a stunning winding staircase that offers breathtaking vistas of the landscape in the vicinity.

• The Milk and Honey is located only a few minutes' walk away from the shops in Daylesford, and it is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for a relaxing break (but still having access to civilisation).

Milk and Honey features air conditioning and can be found in Daylesford. The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens are located 1.4 kilometres away. The Convent Gallery Daylesford is located about 200 metres away. This hotel also provides guests with access to a terrace and free private parking for their vehicles.

The vacation house features two bedrooms, a flat-screen television, a fully-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and two bathrooms, each with a shower. Additionally, the property contains a washing machine.

The vacation property is located 2.2 kilometres away from Lake Daylesford. Milk and Honey is located 72 kilometres away from Melbourne Airport , which is the closest airport.

• According to testimonials found on other websites, this is the area in Daylesford that our visitors like the most.

We speak your language!

Two bedrooms that are flooded with natural light, an open fireplace, sleek bathrooms, and a fully-equipped kitchen round out the package.

Lindenderry at Red Hill

142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill

(03) 5989 2933

Lindenberry is certainly not an exception to the rule when it comes to the illustrious estates that are found on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. The country home is located in an area that is characterised by seaside scenery, vineyards, and culinary trails. Your stay will be enhanced with a cellar door and restaurant, as well as rooms that provide views of the lake or garden, Jacuzzi tubs, and open fireplaces. This is the kind of hotel where guests may kick their shoes off, let their cares drift away, and just take pleasure in each other's company while basking in picturesque surroundings.

Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel

41b Gipps Rd, Port Fairy

(03) 5568 3422

For a long time, couples looking for a romantic retreat in the manner of Melbourne have gravitated towards the Great Ocean Road. In Port Fairy, the Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel enjoys a commanding presence on the Moyne River. After a day of walking around the picturesque town and checking out the beach, shops, and restaurants, guests may unwind and relax in the king spa located in the Courtyard Spa Room. You may look forwards to a breakfast buffet in the morning, which will feature a selection of tasty delicacies such as hotcakes made with caramelised bananas and tomato bruschetta topped with prosciutto and basil pesto.

QT Falls Creek, High Country

17 Bogong High Plains Rd, Falls Creek, Victoria 3699 Australia

At the breathtaking QT Falls Creek in Victoria's High Country, you may experience the serenity of waking up to the mountain mist and the sounds of nature. You may relax in the privacy of your trendy self-contained apartment in the hot tub on your private balcony while taking in the breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains that lies beyond.

There's nothing like a quick getaway with your significant other to get your spark back. Numerous couples have found that Melbourne is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. These attractions include world-class museums, galleries, and restaurants that compete with the greatest in the world. Choose one of these idyllic getaways for couples spread out over Victoria for a memorable romantic getaway from Melbourne. These shelters have all been approved by regional authorities.

The four boutique suites at the Drift House are beautifully decorated and equipped with all the conveniences of home. An indoor pool, spa, and the famous "afternoon tea with Wedgwood" are just a few of the luxuries that guests may anticipate at this hotel. Beautiful views of the Yarra River or the Melbourne skyline may be seen from each of the rooms. The four boutique suites that make up The Drift House have a unique blend of traditional design and cutting-edge amenities. These suites, which are more like studio flats, offer a quiet retreat from the bustle of the hotel's surroundings.

Each unit has its own unique selling point that makes use of both the original terrace structure and the newer, more modern extension in the backyard. Six very private guest suites make up Drift House, which is found in Port Fairy on the Great Ocean Road. The Kudos Villas are the icing on the cake for a romantic stay in the beautiful outdoors at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. The Woodlands Rainforest Retreat is situated on sixteen acres of undeveloped ground, overlooking the fern-filled gullies of Heritage Creek. Lake House is in Daylesford, a town known for its spas, gourmet restaurants, and award-winning wines.

Tucked up in the gentle slopes below Mount Victoria, Casa Valeri provides a glimpse of the Provence area of France. Boroka Downs, on the fringes of Grampians National Park, is an eco-friendly resort that caters only to adults. In addition to its delicious dinners, cascading waterfalls, and enchanted bamboo gardens, the Japanese Mountain Retreat is known for its romantic ambience. A total of six lavish mansions, each designed by a different architect and all situated magnificently atop a cliff, make up the real estate development known as Clifftop at Hepburn. An absolutely breathtaking 'glamping' spot, Wild Valley is a collection of antique caravans located on a ridge overlooking Budgeree.

The Milk and Honey cottage may be found in Daylesford, around a two-hour journey from Melbourne. In addition to its world-famous wine, the luxurious Mitchelton Winery estate also houses a restaurant, an art gallery, and a hotel. There are 55 beautiful rooms to choose from, and each one is stylish and comfortable. The coastal landscape, wineries, and foodie routes surrounding the country house make it an ideal vacation destination. The nearest airport to Milk and Honey is Melbourne Airport, which is situated 72 kilometres away.

Two bedrooms, a flat-screen TV, a fully-stocked kitchen with a dishwasher, a microwave, and a washing machine are all provided in this holiday rental home. The Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel in Port Fairy has a prominent location on the Moyne River. The picturesque QT Falls Creek offers guests the chance to wake up to the peaceful sights and sounds of nature, including the gentle drizzle of mountain mist. Rooms with views of the lake or garden, Jacuzzi tubs, and open fireplaces are just a few of the amenities that will make your stay more enjoyable.

Content Summary:

• It might be challenging to organise a private and romantic getaway from Melbourne, especially if you don't have much time on your hands.
• On the other hand, the good news is that we've done some of the research for you by compiling a list of the most romantic retreats Victoria has to offer.
• Your romantic trip from Melbourne is guaranteed to be a success if you choose one of these couple's retreats located around the state of Victoria.
• Each of these retreats has been authorised by local experts.
• There are many reasons why couples adore the romantic vacations that Melbourne has to offer.
• Some of these reasons include art, culture, and a dining scene that is on par with the best in the world.
• One thing is certain, though, and that is the fact that the city's global allure is imbued in all of the romantic settings found here, no matter how glitzy or rustic the setting may be.
• When it comes to recharging your batteries, there is nothing quite like a romantic mini-break.
• Sure, overseas jaunts and interstate holidays might be lovely (when we can do them!), but there is nothing quite like it.
• We have traversed the countryside of Victoria in search of picturesque and isolated locations where you and your significant other (or other people) may rest, unwind, and spend some quality time with one another.
• They are all reachable in a short amount of time by vehicle from Melbourne, so compile a playlist of love songs, fill up the tank, and plan a getaway for two.
• You have likely been pent up at home for the better part of some time at this point, and as a result, you are probably seeking for a good peaceful area in regional
• Victoria in which to lay your head.
• And what could be a more enjoyable way to spend your time than squeezing your significant other into the backseat of your car and taking off for a weekend trip just the two of you?The Langham MelbourneSouthgate Ave, Southbank(03) 8696 8888
• The Langham is a magnificent treat for those who like the excitement of the city, since it is located in the centre of the action, near to the Bourke Street Mall and the
• Crown Casino, and it provides guests with every culinary option imaginable.
• There is an indoor pool, a spa, and the highly regarded "afternoon tea with Wedgwood" to look forwards to at this luxurious hotel.
• The rooms are elegant and overlook either the Yarra River or the city skyline.
• The Drift House does an excellent job of combining a high degree of personal service with a variety of different architectural inspirations.
• Drift House is the ideal location to lay your head down in this verdant coastal community.
• It is located in the town of Port Fairy, which is so little that you might easily miss it if you blinked.
• It is a few kilometres past Warrnambool on the Great Ocean Road.
• Drift House is a collection of four boutique suites, each of which combines historical aesthetics with modern facilities with the type of style and quality you'd find at some of Melbourne's greatest five-star hotels.
• It is located only a short walk from the centre of town.
• Colleen Guiney, an artist, and her partner, John Watkinson, saw an intriguing possibility in a derelict terrace home in the neighbourhood where they live.
• These suites are more like tiny apartments and provide a private getaway away from the commotion of the surrounding area.
• Each apartment features a distinctive selling proposition that capitalises on the older terrace building as well as the more recent and contemporary addition located in the backyard.
• Suite One is located on the first floor of the original bluestone structure and features an open fireplace as well as a luxurious stone bathroom with a large tub that shouts, "Treat yourself!"
• The Suite Two is located one story above the lobby and embodies the hotel industry's "three C's": commodiousness, cosiness, and character (it looks distinctly original with specially commissioned artwork surrounding the suite).
• However, a stay at the Drift House is about so much more than what it appears to be on the surface.
• This is a really accommodating way to spend one's time.
• You will be provided with charming breakfast hampers that include items like as bread and eggs produced from the area as well as delectable plum jam created from fruit harvested from the garden.
• You will also find two complimentary yoyo cookies waiting for you, courtesy of a local resident named Sandra Showlers, who, according to a sweet typed-up message, was the recipient of the major award at the Port Fairy Show for two consecutive years.
• You will also be given a two-page guide to experiencing the very best of Port Fairy in just 48 hours.
• This book will provide you with recommendations for restaurants, cellar doors (the Basalt Vineyard is a special treat), local hikes, and things that you should go see while you are in town.
• It is very clear that they have worked with the structure of this home from the colonial era in order to build first-rate accommodations for the modern day.
• However, what truly sets this apart as a one-of-a-kind destination is the attention to detail that has been put into the accommodations here.
• Drift House is located in Port Fairy on the Great Ocean Road, and it has six extremely private guest apartments that are spread out among many vintage structures as well as lovely contemporary expansions.
• Disconnect, ease into relaxation, and indulge in some well-deserved downtime in the lap of exquisite luxury at this enchanting boutique hotel.
• The Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve is the ideal location for a romantic getaway in the great outdoors, and the Kudos Villas are the perfect finishing touch.
• In the midst of wildlife-rich wilderness, nine self-contained cottages with names like "Kudos Bliss" and "Kudos Indulge" are waiting for you to discover them.
• Choose the Kudos Temple, which features an open fire place, raised party patio, and sunken spa as the centrepiece of the space.
• Melbourne couples are drawn to secluded and peaceful weekend retreats in the middle of the bush for their quest for an authentically romantic experience.
• The Woodlands Rainforest Retreat may be found on sixteen acres of untouched property that looks out over the fern-filled gullies of Heritage Creek.
• Cottages made of wood, furnished to a high standard, and completely equipped, with deep hot tubs and complete seclusion.
• Therefore, if you want to excite the person you care about the most, select the "Romantic Surprise" option, which includes lit tea candles, long-stemmed flowers, chocolates, Yarra Valley sparkling, and a rose petal trail.
• Daylesford is famous for its spas, gourmet food, and wine; Lake House is located there.
• All of these things are offered at the retreat, in addition to outdoor patios, tennis courts, rural gardens, and a restaurant that has won several awards.
• The suites provide the all-important atmosphere with their rich, traditional furnishings, breathtaking vistas, and well curated art collections.
• One of the most famous hotels in all of Victoria is the Lake House, which can be found in a picturesque location on the shores of Lake Daylesford.
• You can choose to spend the day getting pampered in the Lake House Spa before indulging in a delicious four-course meal served a la carte in the well regarded Lake House Restaurant.
• Casa Valeri, nestled in the rolling hills below Mount Victoria, offers guests a taste of the French region of Provence.
• The most memorable romantic vacations in Melbourne are those that take place against a backdrop of natural beauties.
• Boroka Downs is an adult-only resort that is environmentally conscious and is located on the outskirts of Grampians National Park.
• The Japanese Mountain Retreat has a very romantic atmosphere, complete with swimming beneath the stars, gourmet meals, waterfalls, and fairy-lit bamboo gardens.
• The spa has heaven-sent indoor and outdoor bathing rituals, including an Arabian Steam Temple and a Roman Bath House.
• The one-of-a-kind suites, which take their design cues from Japanese culture, give a secluded retreat.
• Clifftop at Hepburn, Hepburn SpringsMineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs - 346103 5321 6000The Clifftop at Hepburn real estate development features a total of six luxury homes, each of which was created by a different architect and is exquisitely positioned on top of a cliff.
• These multi-award-winning villas have superb interior design, and they provide guests the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside while cuddling up in front of a cosy wood fire.
• Wild Valley is an outrageously stunning 'glamping' destination that contains a collection of vintage caravans, perched on a ridge with panoramic views across Budgeree.
• The name of this destination is Wild Valley.
• We propose that you get a room in the French Van from the 1970s.
• This bad boy has a French interior designed in the style of the 1970s and is furnished with antiques from France.
• Lovers Lane is nestled away behind Leongatha and views the beautiful hills of South Gippsland from the comfort of numerous comfortable homes complete with a fireplace and luxurious modern conveniences.
• You may decide to spend the days with that special someone while soaking in the countryside, and that is a perfectly acceptable option.
• The rustic cottage contains one main bathroom, one bedroom located in the loft portion of the second story, an independent kitchen, and a sitting space.
• This spot is just perfect for a romantic getaway, since it is cloaked in old-world allure and graced with an abundance of peace and quiet.
• Have a drink of red wine and a platter of cheese while you relax in front of the crackling fire.
• In case you are hungry, the Mt. Macedon Hotel is just thirty metres down the road.
• The elegant Mitchelton Winery estate features not just a cellar door but also a high-end hotel, a restaurant, and an art gallery in addition to its renowned wine varieties.
• Due to the fact that all of that alcohol may cause you to feel rather sleepy, we strongly recommend that you reserve a room at the adjacent Mitchelton Hotel for the night.
• There are fifty-five lovely guest rooms available for booking, and each one is chic, cosy, and cosy.
• With luxury bedding, quality bathroom items, and even a picture-perfect outdoor pool to recline in, it will seem as though you've walked into the pages of a design book.
• In addition, the contents of the mini bar at Mitchelton are provided free of charge (with the exception of alcoholic beverages), which is a wonderful perk for guests.
• Additionally, guests have the choice of sleeping in one of Mitchelton's airstream cabins, which were added to the property in the early part of 2021. Milk And Honey 14 Hill St, 3460 Daylesford, Australia In this location, the quality of the accommodations lives up to the reputation of the establishment.
• Daylesford, which is around a two-hour drive from Melbourne, is where you'll find the Milk and Honey cottage.
• Milk and Honey features air conditioning and can be found in Daylesford.
• The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens are located 1.4 kilometres away.
• The Convent Gallery Daylesford is located about 200 metres away.
• This hotel also provides guests with access to a terrace and free private parking for their vehicles.
• The vacation house features two bedrooms, a flat-screen television, a fully-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and two bathrooms, each with a shower.
• Additionally, the property contains a washing machine.
• The vacation property is located 2.2 kilometres away from Lake Daylesford.
• Milk and Honey is located 72 kilometres away from Melbourne Airport, which is the closest airport.
• We speak your language!Two bedrooms that are flooded with natural light, an open fireplace, sleek bathrooms, and a fully-equipped kitchen round out the package.
• Lindenderry at Red Hill142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill(03) 5989 2933Lindenberry is certainly not an exception to the rule when it comes to the illustrious estates that are found on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.
• The country home is located in an area that is characterised by seaside scenery, vineyards, and culinary trails.
• Your stay will be enhanced with a cellar door and restaurant, as well as rooms that provide views of the lake or garden, Jacuzzi tubs, and open fireplaces.
• This is the kind of hotel where guests may kick their shoes off, let their cares drift away, and just take pleasure in each other's company while basking in picturesque surroundings.
• Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel41b Gipps Rd, Port Fairy(03) 5568 3422For a long time, couples looking for a romantic retreat in the manner of Melbourne have gravitated towards the Great Ocean Road.
• In Port Fairy, the Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel enjoys a commanding presence on the Moyne River.
• After a day of walking around the picturesque town and checking out the beach, shops, and restaurants, guests may unwind and relax in the king spa located in the Courtyard Spa Room.
• AustraliaAt the breathtaking QT Falls Creek in Victoria's High Country, you may experience the serenity of waking up to the mountain mist and the sounds of nature.
• You may relax in the privacy of your trendy self-contained apartment in the hot tub on your private balcony while taking in the breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains that lies beyond.

FAQs About Romatic Getaway in Melbourne

Where should i spend my anniversary in melbourne.

• Hot Air Balloon Flight.
• Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise.
• Melbourne Star Observation Wheel.
• Romantic Horse and Carriage Tour.
• Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.
• Peninsula Hot Spring Spa.
• Theatre, Shows & Musicals.

Where should we go for our wedding anniversary in Victoria?

• Hepburn at Hepburn, Hepburn Springs.
• Clarendon Cottages, Dandenong Ranges. 
• The Sebel Yarrawonga, Murray River. 
• Haven Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula. 
• Old Chilli B&B, Daylesford. 
• Yering Gorge Cottages, Yarra Valley. 
• Cosy Tents, Daylesford. 
• Anchors Port Campbell, Great Ocean Road. 

Where can I propose in Victoria?

• Eureka Skydeck. Known for its mesmerising views and record heights, the Eureka Skydeck is one of the best places in Victoria to propose.
• Royal Botanic Gardens. 
• Melbourne Star. 
• Hot air balloon. 
• Great Ocean Road. 
• Grampians National Park. 
• Yarra Valley. 
• Mornington Peninsula.

Where do celebrities live in Melbourne?

The Mornington Peninsula has become a hot spot for the rich and famous, with its multimillion-dollar clifftop mansions attracting celebrities, business titans and sporting greats – who seldom ever part with their pricey pads.

What suburbs are in the south of Melbourne?

The ten districts in South Eastern Suburbs Melbourne are Bayside, Cardinia, Casey, Greater Dandenong, Frankston, Glen Eira, Kingston, Monash, Mornington Peninsula and Stonnington.

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The best romantic getaways in Victoria

Looking to get away with your bae? Stay at one of these romantic hotels near Melbourne

Overseas jaunts and interstate sojourns can be great (when we can do them!) but there's nothing quite like a romantic mini-break to recharge your batteries.

We've travelled across regional Victoria to find beautiful, secluded spots where you and your significant other (or others) can relax, unwind and spend some quality time together. They are all within an easy drive of Melbourne, so make a romantic playlist, fuel up the car and book a romantic weekend away. 

If you're looking for a more outdoorsy holiday, check out these national parks within driving distance of Melbourne . And if it's a foodie holiday you're after, may we suggest East Gippsland ? 

An email you’ll actually love

Eight romantic getaways to take from Melbourne

Drift House

• price 4 of 4

Best for:  Those who are comfortable bathing in front of each other

Drift House does an exemplary job of blending design influences with a high level of personal service. Located in the blink-and-you’ll-skip-it town of Port Fairy , a few kilometres past Warrnambool on the Great Ocean Road , Drift House is the perfect place to rest your head in this lush seaside town. Situated only a short walk from the town centre, Drift House encompasses six boutique suites, each blending historical aesthetics and modern amenities with the kind of style and class you’d find at some of Melbourne’s best five-star hotels.

Mitchelton Winery

Best for: Wine lovers

The beautiful Mitchelton Winery estate boasts a cellar door and primo wine varietals, but also a swish hotel, restaurant and art gallery.  The winery has been around since the late '60s, having developed a reputation for its riesling and shiraz varietals and picking up a few dozen awards over the years.  All that drink can make you pretty snoozy, so we’d suggest booking an overnight stay at the adjoining Mitchelton hotel. It has 58 beautiful guest rooms to book, each stylish, comfortable and cosy. It’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of a design book with luxurious linens, premium bathroom products and even a picture-perfect outdoor pool to lounge in. 

Lancemore Mansion Hotel

• Werribee South
• price 3 of 4

Best for: Those who want to pretend they are 19th-century noble people 

Just 30 minutes from Melbourne, Lancemore Mansion Hotel in Werribee feels like another world – and another time.  The wealthy Chirnside family built the originally 60-room Italianate mansion in 1877, and at one point there was 55 staff to look after five family members. You can pretend you are one of the pampered Chirnsides yourself if you stay at the attached hotel, which was opened in 2000 after the mansion was lovingly restored. There are plenty of luxurious touches, such as Malin + Goetz bath products, flat-screen smart TVs, fluffy bathrobes and even a pillow menu. You'd be tempted to spend all your time in your room, given the comfortable surroundings, but then you'd miss out on the pampering that is to be had at the mansion's spa. A variety of facials, body treatments and massages are offered, along with manicures and pedicures. 

Lindenderry at Red Hill

• Boutique hotels

Best for: Those who can't afford a trip to Europe

The grounds at Lindenderry are so picturesque you half expect Bambi to be frolicking on the grass. Inside the hotel, it feels like one big, glam country house: there’s all of the space and elegance with none of the kitsch. The hotel, as it currently stands, has only been in operation since January 2018 after undergoing a multimillion-dollar refurbishment. Dotted throughout the hotel’s winding corridors are semi-secluded nooks stuffed with plush lounges and often an open fire – perfect for some reading, no? You’ll find more of those crackling open fireplaces inside the rooms, which are appropriately luxe. For the service and amenities experienced at the hotel, you can get a room at a fair nightly rate – but this sort of boutique accommodation is really best experienced by going all out. Book yourself a balcony suite, where you can stretch out on the ample bed, in an armchair by the fire or with a glass of the estate’s wine on your balcony while pretending you’re lord or lady of the manor.

Jackalope Hotel

• Merricks North

Best for: Those who want to go all out

This cutting-edge, ultra-luxe hotel is what you might expect to find in New York's uber-hip Meatpacking District, not set among rolling hills and gently swaying vines of the Mornington Peninsula. Jackalope Hotel opened in 2017 and quickly racked up accolades, being named Hotel of the Year by Gourmet Traveller magazine in its very first year. It's boutique, with only 45 rooms, which is small enough to make every guest feel special and appreciated. The staff are very attentive, showing you to your room and familiarising you with all the whiz-bang accoutrements and luxurious touches therein. Everything in the minibar is included in your stay (with the exception of the wine), movies are free on-demand, and an iPad is loaded with information about  the hotel, a room-service menu, local points of interest and news websites.  Many rooms have as their centrepiece a deep, black stone bath, which staff will draw for you on request (it takes about half an hour to get it to the right level). The hotel's amenities are pretty spectacular, too, with a seven-metre infinity pool and spa overlooking the vines and numerous function spaces.

1860 Luxury Accommodation

Best for:  History buffs 

The timber cabin (from, yes, 1860) is down a laneway just off the main drag in historic Beechworth . It's surrounded by a lovely garden and gum trees, and it's just the place for peace and quiet. The outside looks very rustic, with a wraparound timber verandah and a sloped roof. That doesn't mean it's a dark, windswept cabin, though, as it would have been in 1860. No expense has been spared to turn the cabin into a gorgeous retreat, complete with modern comforts and beautiful period styling. There's an espresso machine, a comfy king-sized bed, a deep bath, fluffy robes and everything you need to make a hearty breakfast. The furniture is reclaimed and remade from artefacts of the time – a giant bellow forms the coffee table, and an antique cupboard holds the TV and DVD player. The cabin sleeps just two people, and it is the perfect romantic retreat for you and a special someone. 

Balgownie Estate Winery Retreat and Vineyard

Best for: Those who like to pretend they're roughing it

Balgownie Estate is recognised as one of Australia's premium vineyards, with a number of accommodation options available for those looking for a weekend away in the vines. The Homestead includes seven luxe suites to stay in, which are both contemporary and stylish. Outside there are 15 permanent glamping tents to try as well, which have you planted right at the edge of the vineyard. These are not your standard Aussie Disposals numbers – think queen-sized bed with linen, air conditioning, minibar fridge and lighting.

The Nest Point Lonsdale

• Point Lonsdale

Best for: The eco-conscious 

The Nest isn’t big. It consists of five self-contained pods, though plans are already underway to build more. But while there aren’t a lot of units, the units themselves are spacious, modern and extremely eco-friendly. The pods are made out of recycled materials, use filtered rainwater and are powered by solar during the day. But don’t be fooled into thinking the Nest is the kind of place where the sheets are hemp and the mini-bar snacks are all vegan (they are all complimentary with your room, though). It might sound strange, but staying at the Nest really does feel like staying in a nest, albeit one with plush carpeting, a spa and an oh-so-comfortable king bed. Ditch your bags as soon as you get in and dunk yourself in the outdoor spa. Sunk into the back porch, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a glass of bubbles while watching the sunset – or the friendly family of cows next door. Shy? Each pod at the Nest is designed to be private, with guests staying the adjacent pods unable to peep next door. So unless the aforementioned cows make you bashful, you really are in your own little world.

Need more getaway ideas?

10 weekend getaways from Melbourne

As much as we love all things Melbourne, even we occasionally need a break from the big city. Here's all the inspiration you need to plan your next weekend escape.

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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.

More on Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

What's in this article (Click to view)

How to do these Melbourne day trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melbourne day trips map

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

Day trips under 1 hour from Melbourne

1. yarra valley.

Distance from CBD: 58km / 1 hour

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

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

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

Don’t miss:

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

Best time to visit the Yarra Valley:

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

How to get to the Yarra Valley:

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

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

2. Healesville

Distance from CBD: 65km/1.25 hours

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Healesville:

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

How to get to Healesville

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

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

3. Dandenong Ranges

Distance from CBD: 50km / 1 hour

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Dandenong Ranges:

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

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

How to get to the Dandenong Ranges:

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

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

4. Macedon Ranges

Distance from CBD: 65km / 1 hour

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

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

Best time to visit the Macedon Ranges:

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

How to get to the Macedon Ranges:

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

Melbourne day trips 1-2 hours away

5. mornington peninsula.

Distance from CBD: 75km / 1.5 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Mornington Peninsula:

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

How to get to the Mornington Peninsula:

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

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

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

6. Bellarine Peninsula

Distance from CBD: 92km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit the Bellarine Peninsula:

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

How to get to the Bellarine Peninsula:

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

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

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

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

7. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Distance from CBD: 112km / 1.5 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

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

How to get to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs:

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

8. Torquay and Lorne

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit:

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

How to get to Torquay and Lorne:

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

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

9. Ballarat

Distance from CBD: 116km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Ballarat:

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

How to get to Ballarat:

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

10. Geelong

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

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

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

Best time to visit Geelong:

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

How to get to Geelong:

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

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

11. Castlemaine

Distance from CBD: 129km / 1.5 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Castlemaine:

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

How to get to Castlemaine:

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

12. Bendigo

Distance from CBD: 153km / just under 2 hours

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

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

Best time to visit Bendigo:

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

How to get to Bendigo:

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

13. Phillip Island

Distance from CBD: 142km / 2 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Phillip Island:

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

How to get to Phillip Island:

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

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

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

Day trips 2+ hours from Melbourne

14. great ocean road.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit the Great Ocean Road:

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

How to get to the Great Ocean Road:

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

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

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

15. Great Otway National Park

Distance from CBD: 211km / 2 ¾ hours

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

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

Best time to visit the Great Otway National Park:

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

How to get to the Great Otway National Park:

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

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

16. Gariwerd (Grampians National Park)

Distance from CBD: 258km / 3 hours

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

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

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

Best time to visit Grampians National Park:

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

How to get to Grampians National Park:

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

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

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

17. Wilsons Promontory

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to visit Wilsons Promontory:

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

How to get to Wilsons Promontory:

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

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

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

Wrap up: Melbourne day trips

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

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

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

Related posts

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

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

Best Melbourne resources

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

PIN IT FOR LATER:

Save this guide to the best day trips to Melbourne to Pinterest for later.

About THE AUTHOR

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

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Romantic Rendezvous in Melbourne

Discover love in the vibrant city of melbourne, where adventure and romance await.

22 April 2023

Melbourne, Australia is a romantic destination that offers plenty of activities for couples to enjoy. From strolling around the charming streets of the city, exploring beachside villages, and experiencing the vibrant arts and culture scene, there’s something for everyone. The city is also known for its gastronomic delights, wine culture, and intimate accommodations that are perfect for a cozy getaway with your loved one.

Day trip plan

Melbourne magic.

• Start your day with brunch at Hardware Societe their truffled scrambled eggs are to die for!
• Visit the National Gallery of Victoria and marvel at their collection of world-class art, including the iconic "Waterwall" installation.
• Wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens and take in the vibrant colors and sweet scents of the flora.
• Don't miss a photo op in front of Hosier Lane's famous street art.
• End the night on a high note with cocktails at the rooftop bar of the QT Melbourne, overlooking the city skyline. The ambiance is electric and the drinks are divine.

Outbound Fri, 23 Aug 2023

Return sun, 25 aug 2023, length of stay, type of trip, how to get there.

The best way to get to Melbourne, Australia by plane is to fly into Melbourne Airport (MEL) from your nearest major airport. Many airlines offer flights to Melbourne, including Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar.

To drive to Melbourne, you can take the Hume Highway from Sydney or the Eastern Freeway from Adelaide. The journey can take anywhere from 8-10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

Unfortunately, there is no direct train that runs to Melbourne from any other country or state. However, you can take a train from Sydney or Adelaide to Melbourne, which is a scenic route that takes approximately 12-14 hours.

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat services that run to Melbourne from any other country or state. However, you can take a cruise from Sydney or Tasmania to Melbourne, which is a relaxing way to see the coast and take in the scenery along the way.

A cost-effective way to get to Melbourne is by bus. Greyhound Australia offers bus services from major cities such as Sydney, Adelaide, and Canberra to Melbourne. The bus stops at Southern Cross Station in Melbourne.

Destination

With its charming alleyways, artistic graffiti and unpredictable weather, Melbourne is like that eccentric cousin you always looked forward to hanging out with as a kid. Except this time, it's all grown up and ready to show you a good time.

Number of days

More travel plans, melbourne, australia: unleashing family fun on a budget.

Melbourne, Australia offers a fantastic family-friendly destination with a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Families can explore the famous Melbourne Zoo or the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, getting up close and personal with a variety of animals. Additionally, the city boasts beautiful parks and gardens perfect for picnics, along with kid-friendly museums and entertainment centers like Scienceworks and Luna Park.

Melbourne on a Budget: 5 Days of Adventure!

Melbourne, Australia offers a variety of budget-friendly options for travelers on a tight budget. Tour the city's free attractions such as the Botanic Gardens, Shrine of Remembrance, and street art alleys. Dine on delicious, affordable eats from the city's diverse food scene and stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or shared Airbnb rentals.

Melbourne's Romantic Long Weekend Getaway

Melbourne is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, with its scenic landscapes and charming atmosphere. Couples can indulge in a variety of activities such as taking a romantic walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens or enjoying a cozy dinner at one of the numerous rooftop restaurants with stunning views. The city's vibrant nightlife, live music concerts, and local art museums make it an ideal location for a memorable, romantic trip.

Melbourne Magic: A Whimsical 2-Day Family Adventure

Melbourne, Australia is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip a its diverse range of activities and attractions. Families can explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, visit Melbourne Zoo to see Australian wildlife up close, and embark on a scenic ride on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for breathtaking views of the city. Additionally, with its vibrant street art, bustling markets, and interactive museums like Scienceworks, Melbourne offers an enriching and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

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SIXT Magazine Australia

Travel Tips & News from SIXT Rent a Car

1 Hour Day Trips From Melbourne for Couples

Best Romantic Day Trips From Melbourne 

Whether you live in Melbourne and are looking for a romantic getaway or are flying into the city for a trip but want to venture further, you’ve come to the right place. We have put together a list of the best day trips from Melbourne. 

The best part is, that most of these options are 1 hour day trips from Melbourne – or can be extended to be an entire weekend retreat. The choice is up to you! 

Whether you’re after beach escapes, wineries, hikes or hot springs soaks, you can hit the road in the morning and be back by evening with a bunch of new memories to bank. Reconnect on the road as you cruise out of the busy city towards charming towns with must-try cafes and wide open spaces with spectacular views.

Pick a few favourites from this list or make it your mission to do them all – that’s the beauty of a day trip from Melbourne; all you have to do is get behind the wheel and go.

SIXT’s Favourite 1 Hour Day Trips From Melbourne 

• Peninsula hot springs – Relax and unwind in the natural geothermal mineral pools
• Gin tasting in Healesville – Sample the finest Four Pillars’ distillery has to offer and come home with your favourite bottle
• Post-hike ciders – Climb Mount Macedon in the morning and sip on trophy-worthy ciders in the afternoon
• The Penguin Parade – Head to Phillip Island in the summer to witness a magical showcase of wildlife

But don’t worry, we have plenty more options below.

Starting Your Day Trip From Melbourne

Outside of the city itself, public transport leaves a lot to be desired. For these romantic day trips from Melbourne, it’s best if you have your own car. This gives you the freedom to lay in, leave when you want, linger a little longer or be spontaneous – and what could be more romantic than that!! 

Pickup your hire car in Melbourne CBD at your choice of location. Alternatively, if it’s more accessible, you can always pick up a rental car from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine). If you’re further west, Avalon airport car hire might be your best option. 

If you come across any tolls, the team at SIXT will automatically set payments up for you, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Now that the logistics are out of the way, we can delve into the best day trips from Melbourne and what each has to offer.

Mornington Peninsula 

Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 4 minutes. 

Located southeast of the city, there are many reasons the Mornington Peninsula is considered one of the best day trips from Melbourne, not least because it is just an hour away by car. 

This area gets forgotten, but is actually the perfect mixture of the natural beauty of the countryside, wine country and seaside charm and views. What could be better for a romantic getaway for the weekend, night or just a day trip. 

The choice is yours on how you wish to entertain yourself as there really is something for everyone. Though, we do suggest beating the traffic and starting your journey as early as possible, stopping at Merchant & Maker in Macrae for coffee and a little (or big) brekkie. 

Spend a sunny morning enjoying the coastal tracks and talking. If you’re really pulling out all the stops, pack a small picnic or snack to pitch up somewhere quiet. Then, in the afternoon, you absolutely must visit the Peninsula Hot Springs. Here you can both indulge yourselves with a dip in the warm, natural water, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Again, if you’re really trying to impress, book yourselves in for a couples spa treatment and leisure the afternoon away. 

In the evening, head out for a delicious meal with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To enjoy the wine of the region, you might want to stop over for the evening and make your way back the following morning. That way you get another breakfast out there, too!! 

Dandenong Ranges

Distance from Melbourne: Under 1 hour

Looking to escape the city and dive into some nature? The Dandenong Ranges have got you covered. In less than an hour, you won’t be able to see or think about the city that you’ve left behind. 

Head out in the morning with a daypack and an empty Esky on the backseat. Spend the morning on your choice of hike, through the dense, immersive and utterly breathtaking rainforest of Sherbrooke Forest…

The Living Bush Nature Walk is suitable for all fitness levels and will take you through some of the region’s best native flora and fauna in under 90 minutes return. Or, if you’re up for the challenge of a steep trail, walk the famous 1,000 Steps and catch your breath at the top while inhaling the subtropical atmosphere.

For those who prefer to see but not sweat, jump aboard Puffing Billy – a century-old heritage railway that passes through the mountains allowing you to sit back and take in the lush fern gullies. 

Grab an elevated pub feed at Paradise Valley Hotel, but save room for desert. Take a wander around the small, charming towns, ducking into any artisan shop or bakery that takes your fancy. You’ll fill that Esky in no time for treats to come home with. 

Depending on the day you plan on visiting, it’s always worth checking to see if there are any markets on, too. After a relaxing, romantic afternoon, head 20 minutes north for dinner at Sky High Mount. Here you will get views over Melbourne Skyline – as well as delicious food and drinks. 

All this and it’s the perfect 1 hour day trip from Melbourne. 

Yarra Valley & Healesville 

Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 30 minutes

Whether you are with your significant other or a group of friends, the Yarra Valley is a beautiful, fun Melbourne day trip that’s easy to reach. 

Get on the road early and reward yourself with incredible, local coffee and fresh made baked goods from Healesville Habitual. If you’re not hungry that early in the morning, definitely grab a cake or treat to go and get back on the road towards Marysville. It’s a stunning drive that rivals any other in Australia for its variety. You’ll see the lush forest, magnificent mountains and vineyards as far as the eye can see. It’s a winding road, but definitely an enjoyable one. 

For the rest of the day, book yourself onto a winery tour. There are so many options we can’t list them all here, but our favourite are those that pair the wines with locally made cheese and chocolate. For a heartier meal, head to Il Vigneto Pizzeria, which is located perfectly at the side of the lake. 

From here, the afternoon is yours to do with as you will. If you’re staying overnight, a spot with a hot tub is highly recommended. There are loads of rentals available that boast stunning (and private) views over the valley. If you’re keen to burn off your treats, why not hire bikes and cycle around some of the vineyards. Head back out for an evening meal, with 4 courses and wine pairings at Oakridge Wines. 

It’s so easy to head to the Yarra Valley for more than just a Melbourne day trip. The relaxing vibes (and wine) makes it perfect for a weekend getaway. 

Phillip Island 

Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours 

Looking for something fun for your couples road trip from Melbourne? Phillip Island is an easy place to find romantic, with plenty to do as well. 

The favourite being the famous Penguin Parade. The tiniest penguins in the world call this island home and can be seen around sunset every day, going out to find their dinner.

During the day, why not take a lovely cruise out on the water to spot other marine life. This area is known for seals, dolphins, rays and so much more. In the winter or spring, you should rug up warm, cuddle close and go out looking for whales! 

In the afternoon, whilst you wait for the penguins to wake up, you should experience the best of the rugged landscapes and take a walk along the Nobbies, a collection of rock formations that create the edge Phillip Island. 

Although this day trip from Melbourne will take a little longer to get to, you can always stay over a night or two to make the journey worth it. However, just a day trip here will certainly feel like several, as you experience so many different landscapes, sights and animals in a single day. 

Daylesford & The Macedon Ranges

Daylesford will take just over an hour to get to from Melbourne, but is well worth that little extra on the road. Plus, it’s really an enjoyable ride, so we still recommend it as a romantic day trip. 

From stunning spring gardens filled with blooming wisteria and magnolias to streets lined with trees ablaze with the colours of autumn, Mount Macedon is a delight at any time of year. Some winters, there is even snow!

We suggest starting your journey here, taking advantage of the connecting walking trails through the Macedon Regional Park. You’ll see and hear an array of native birds and perhaps even spot a kangaroo or wombat as you wander through the bushland. For a walk that ends with a view, try the 30-40 minute climb up the Camels Hump, the highest peak in the Macedon Ranges at 1011m.

After an accomplished morning, cool off with the windows down towards Daylesford, where you’ll be greeted with charming streets filled with unique architecture, eclectic art galleries, boutiques and farmer’s markets. Grab some favourites from the stalls for a makeshift picnic at the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, or head to the 165-year-old local that is The Farmers Arms Hotel. From oysters to baked camembert and house-smoked brisket, the menu is far from average pub grub, and the atmosphere is just as snug and warm as your belly will be after a seating.

Cap off your day with a final visit to the Daylesford Cider Co and sample a few different styles (including an alcohol-free option) before building your own box of favourites to bring home.

Bellarine Peninsula 

Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 22 minutes

Bellarine Peninsula is the lesser known and the less trodden 1 hour day trip from Melbourne. This gem is hidden to the South West of Melbourne, just past Geelong. Head straight to Fork N Flower, and wander around with a coffee in hand. 

After browsing, a bouquet or two, get back on the road and continue the full 1 hour distance to Bellarine for the day.  You hardly need a plan here, just head to any point on the coast and enjoy a stunning walk with views of the Port. 

Spend your day wandering the quaint seaside towns of Portarlington, Queenscliff or Ocean Grove. Make reservations for a late lunch at the stunning Merne at Lighthouse for cosy, garden vibes and elevated, sensational food, before heading back to the city. 

This is an ideal, short day trip from Melbourne that you can make as cheap or luxurious as you like! 

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31 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Victoria (+ Weekend Getaways!)

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 09/27/2023

Categories Victoria (Vic)

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If you are looking for the best day trips from Melbourne look no further!

We have you covered with the best places to go near Melbourne (within a 3 hour drive) and also places that are up to a 4 hour drive that you can take on weekend trips from Melbourne.

We have done the hard research for you! 31 TOP places to visit near Melbourne right here.

While in Melbs, see also:

• Things to do in Melbourne at Night
• Romantic Things to do in Melbourne
• Best Breakfast Melbourne CBD
• Romantic Restaurants in Melbourne
• Melbourne bucket list
• Best Day Spas in Melbourne

Need Melbourne Car Rental? We have secured a further 5% discount code with Bargain Car Rentals for our readers off their lowest rates!

31 Day Trips from Melbourne (+ a few Weekend Trips from Melbourne)

Williamstown (25 minutes from melbourne cbd).

Located 25 minutes from Melbourne on Port Phillip Bay, Williamstown is a nice relaxing place for a quick getaway. The first port settlement is teeming with museums, historical landmarks, quaint shops, and restaurants, providing a little for everyone!

If city life is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of parks for a walk or relaxing at the Williamstown Beach. This port side town is a perfect place for a day trip along the water, but not straying too far from home. One of the best attractions near Melbourne to visit.

Want to stay overnight? Quest Williamstown is a nice spot!

Image credit: Visit Melbourne

Queenscliff (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The small seaside resort town of Queenscliff, has a lot to offer. The picturesque views can be seen from every part of the peninsula, creating a very serene and relaxing atmosphere.  Victorian architecture, wide boulevards, and museums make Queenscliff a haven for new and established history buffs.

Family friendly activities, are also in abundance, such as the Queenscliff Music Festival, snorkelling, surfing and various river cruises. This day trip will surely be one to remember!

Fancy an overnight hotel with spa bath? Why not stay and make it a romantic getaway from Melbourne at Vue Grand Hotel 

Lake Mountain (2 hours north from Melbourne CBD)

Snow sports are the main attracting at Lake Mountain. Located two hours north of Melbourne, Lake Mountain is home to the most popular cross country ski resort in Australia. There are plenty of snow related activities such as a tube run, tobogganing, and even snowboard lessons for kids.

Playing in the snow, is just one of the benefits to this mountain, because there are also bushwalks, mountain bike trails, and a zip line, if warm activities are more your speed! This family friendly place, brings a little something for everyone and is sure to make everyone happy.

Geelong (1 hour south west from Melbourne CBD)

Geelong is a small city southwest of Melbourne. This small port city has many attractions along its bay side area including the Waterfront esplanade, the 19 th century carousel, and the art deco boardwalk. The vibrant artistic scene ensures a historic and unique experience for all visitors.

The Geelong Botanic Garden and Eastern Beach provide opportunities to explore nature close to home! A day trip to Geelong, will leave visitors entranced by the vibrant life and history of this port city! One of the best easy day trips from Melbourne!

Hanging Rock Reserve, The Macedon Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Sacred pre-historic volcanic rocks are the main attraction at Hanging Rock Reserve. Home to some of the best food and wine places in the areas, Hanging Rock is not just home to outdoor activities. There are opportunities to explore the artistic mediums of the people who live here, along with cultural experiences, such as plays, musicals, and even concerts!

Each of these activities use the Hanging Rock Reserve as its background, where adventurers can experience hiking trails and opportunities to learn the history of the volcanic rock formation. The Macedon Ranges has something for everyone!

Lorne (2 hours from Melbourne CBD)

There are plenty of popular tourist activities in Lorne to make any family day trip memorable. Many outdoor adventure activities populate the town, such as, swimming, surfing, pier fishing, and even some hiking. All of these activities provide splendid views of the Great Ocean Road and picturesque nature views.

Lorne is host to many cultural festivals that make it an appealing artistic venue for locals. Any trip to Lorne will be sure to leave you excited and awe inspired by the many opportunities this place has.

Wilsons Promontory National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Reconnecting with nature and experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat, are just a few of the unique opportunities Wilsons Promontory National Park offers. The winding trails lead hikers from the Tidal River to the beautiful white quartz sand of Squeaky Beach, ensuring you will feel rejuvenated.

The nearby Mount Oberon, provides scenic views of the Bass Straight and nearby islands; while the Lightstation provides a unique historic glimpse back to the 19 th century.

Bendigo (1 hour, 50 minutes north from Melbourne CBD)

The historic gold rush town of Bendigo lies an hour and 50 minutes from Melbourne. Each unique tourist experience, such as the tour of the Central Deborah Mine or the Golden Dragon Museum, allows you to learn and appreciate the history of Bendigo.

The award winning wine region offers a wide variety of food and drink, and are heralded for their Shiraz. So no matter what your poison, Bendigo offers experiences for everyone!

Grampians National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Grampians National Park is home to the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, bringing to light the local Aboriginal history and rock art. Around the centre is a sprawling nature reserve, home to echidnas and wallabies. The winding trails lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks of the Victoria Mountain Range. While, Halls Gap Zoo, the largest regional zoo in Victoria, exhibits over 160 native and exotic animals.

This unique park, even offers an award winning wine village and glamping experiences. Each activity will be sure to keep you and your family engaged with all aspects of nature.

Ballarat (1 hour, 30 minutes from  Melbourne CBD)

As the third largest city in Victoria, Ballarat is home to a diverse tourist market. Each award winning attraction and unique experience provides a day trip visitor an experience they will never forget. The Ballarat Wildlife Park offers a relaxing atmosphere allowing humans and animals to interact one on one to create memorable moments.

Kyral Castle offers kids the opportunity to experience medieval activities and broaden their imagination. Kids and adults alike will be clamouring to go back!

Yarra Valley (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The wine region of the Yarra Valley, boasts a cool climate known for producing Chardonnay. But there are family friendly activities for all day trippers! Many wineries in the area provide activities for children, while adults experience the luxury of the wineries. Along with wine, a unique experience that is a must do in the Yarra Valley, is the sunrise hot air balloon experience with Global Ballooning Australia. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are on display as you gaze at the beautiful sunrise.

Great Ocean Road (1 hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The 664 kilometre stretch of The Great Ocean Road, provides spectacular views of the coast of Australia, along with plenty of new experiences. The Great Ocean road can be a multiple day trip, or be shortened to one day. All along this winding war memorial, are surfing spots and spectacular sights, such as the 12 Apostles. These iconic rock formations dot the coastline, and ensure a unique experience for any traveller.

Each town The Great Ocean Road passes through, there are award winning and unique food destinations any foody will love! No matter how long or short your trip is on The Great Ocean Road, you will make memorable moments!

The Dandenong Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Adventure awaits at The Dandenong Ranges. The vibrant and exotic fauna and flora of the ranges, provide a magical and magnificent adventure away from the city. The cool Climate Garden offers visitors the ability to learn and study a wide collection of rare plants. Gumbuya World, Melbourne’s largest theme park, boasts an assortment of wildlife along with adventures for all types of thrill seekers. The Dandenong Ranges provide something for everyone to explore the wonders and joys of nature.

Mornington Peninsula (1 hour, 10 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Home to the Wine Food Farmgate Trail, Mornington Peninsula is a treasure trove of wonderful food and wine. Between food/wine stops, visitors enjoy the activities and attractions that populate the area. Historic garden hedges and mazes provide inspiration for the visitor, while activities, such as paddle boarding, at the beach provide relaxation. Each attraction on the peninsula provides something for everyone, leaving the entire family begging for more.

Daylesford (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The unique landscape of Daylesford provides an opportunity to explore the area of an extinct volcano. Utilizing the mineral springs in the area, the town is home to many natural healing therapies and spas, helping a weary traveller to find relaxation and peace. The region is also home to many walking trails and camp grounds, allowing any visitor the opportunity to explore the lush greenery of the area.

Phillip Island (2 hours south of Melbourne CBD)

Philip’s Island is best known for its Little Penguins that come into shore around sunset. Spectators gather for this unique opportunity once a day at Summerland Beach to see this ‘Penguin Parade.’ The wildlife residing on Philip’s Island makes each day a new opportunity to see something new. If wildlife is not your interest, then there are also beaches, fantastic eateries, and the Philip Island Circuit (a legendary track for racing).

Pentridge Prison (30 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

The Victorian Heritage Register has protected many of the buildings located at Pentridge Prison. The prison is home to various art exhibits as well as some spooky ghost tours. Some of the buildings are currently under restoration to be made into housing, retail, and open spaces for the public. Today, you can go to Pentridge and visit the prison and learn about its historic nature.

St Kilda (20 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

Excitement and adventure can be found at nearly every corner in St Kilda. The beachside town is known for its beachside activities and promenade. Only being twenty minutes from Melbourne, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing is abound. Each shopping and eating experience holds new opportunities and experiences to explore St Kilda’s diverse culture. A vibrant culture teeming with artistic talent makes this beachside town a perfect day trip.

Bellarine Peninsula (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The abundance of food and wine located on the Bellarine Peninsula is a foodie’s paradise. The fresh bounty along the Bellarine Peninsula Taste Trail, ensures you and your car will not go home empty. The serene views and distinctive landscape allow for adventures of both the land and sea variety. Art galleries, festivals, and eco-adventures populate the area ensuring each person will find something amazing to do on this day trip adventure.

Healesville (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Healesville lies close to the Yarra Valley making this a nice day trip for those interested in a variety of activities. The boutique shops and art galleries provide new inspiration for budding artistes; while the Glassblowing Studio gives visitors the opportunity to witness the historic art of glassblowing. An Animal Sanctuary and park walks allow you to experience nature one on one and explore the lush greenery of the region.

Flinders (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Flinders offers a unique architectural experience, with a preserved streetscape and historic shops. Lying on the coast of the Bass Strait and Westernport Bay, Flanders is home to Cape Schanck and the cleanest air in the world. The coastal walk among the bluestone boulders along the Flinders Blowhole Walk, ensure a beautiful view of the ocean coastlines and native animals.

Kyneton (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The gold rush brought the thriving village of Kyneton to life. If you enjoy history and picturesque views, Kyneton may be the place for you. Adventurous wine tastings, are sure to leave you raving about the wine of the region; while the bushwalks and village tours allow you to experience the history and natural beauty of the region.

The festivals and other artistic events held here every year are vibrant and diverse, allowing for new interests and activity to excite visitors!

Marysville (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The beautiful town of Marysville is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. The distinct Yarra Ranges National Park is located here, and provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.

After rebuilding from a raging bushfire, Marysville is a picturesque town rebuilt from the ashes. This small town serves as a launch pad for people who would like to visit the Alpine Resort in winter or a place for hungry hikers to get a bite to eat.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Weekend Trips from Melbourne Getaways

Bright (3 hours, 30 min from melbourne cbd).

Lying at the base of Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park, Bright is a region known for its fall foliage and unique experiences. Bright is a place to visit during warm and cold times of year. There are plenty of biking and hiking trails in Bright, along with skiing and snowboarding on Victoria’s Alps. Not only are there plenty activities but they have a world class foodie scene. Boutique restaurants and wineries line the streets, making this the perfect place for a long weekend getaway.

Mount Buller (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Mount Buller is a winter resort village situated three hours from Melbourne. The snowy ski slopes and terrain parks, make this an opportunity you cannot miss. Mount Buller is also home to the National Alpine Museum, chronicling the history of Australian’s winter sports.  A sports lover’s paradise, Mount Buller, ensures all adrenaline junkies will find an activity that suits them no matter the time of year.

Beechworth (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

A historic and charming town, Beechworth is home to many natural experiences. The hiking and biking trails around the area provide serene views of the valley and historical knowledge.  This once gold rush town, now has an artistic scene connected to nature, along with historic buildings. This long weekend getaway is made for those who like to enjoy nature, while also experiencing life in a small town.

Rutherglen (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Along the Murray River, Rutherglen is known as one of premier wine regions in Victoria. Populated with wineries, this popular place makes for a great long weekend getaway. Along with winery tours, there are plenty of biking and hiking trails. This little slice of paradise, will appeal to the wine lovers and adventure seekers allowing you to have a weekend you will never forget!

Metung (3 hours, 30 min from of Melbourne CBD)

If an escape to the coast is your wish, Metung may be the destination for you! The relaxed village atmosphere is perfect for all the water sport activities and experiences any adventurer will love. Fresh seafood and farm to table restaurants create a unique dining experience. At the foot of the Great Alpine Road, this vacation village is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the road and allows you to explore the Gippsland Lakes from land and water!

King Valley (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

A slice of Italy in Victoria, awaits you in King Valley. Wineries and Italian eateries line the valley and create the Prosecco Road. Festivals in June have local wineries open their doors to visitors and do winery walkabouts. Liking wine is a must, when visiting this area. The locally grown grapes and ingredients make the food and dining experience different from any other area of Australia.

Apollo Bay (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

On the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a well-known surfing spot for the surfing aficionado. The pristine coastal waters allow for any water sport fanatic to find something to do. Art, farmers markets, and pristine hikes, allow for fantastic views of the Great Ocean Road, while celebrating the culture of Apollo Bay. This getaway is certain to provide diverse experiences and have something for everyone!

Mildura (6 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Mildura is the centre of Victoria’s Food Bowl, growing most of the citrus fruits in the region. The beautiful sunsets and clear night skies make Mildura a nice relaxing getaway. There are activities for the whole family, including an Aquacoaster and various biking activities. This historical region even has a vibrant art scene and boutique retail stores, making the region a unique and interesting place for the long getaway!

Don’t forget to end your trip with some epic Australian Quotes !

Tip: If you bring a kid on the trip don’t forget safety first! If you need a new carseat, check out our guide one the best narrow carseats Australia

32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne

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

1. Explore Melbourne’s Street Art

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

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

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

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

2. Go Hiking in the You Yangs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Spend the Day at St Kilda

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

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

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

5. Enjoy Paddle & Brunch at St Kilda

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

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

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

6. Go Punting in the Botanic Gardens

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

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

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

7. Head to Altona Dog Beach

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

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

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

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

8. Explore Yarra Bend Park

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

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

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

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

9. Stroll Around Lake Daylesford

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

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

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

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

10. Enjoy High Tea in Olinda

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

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

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

11. Go Picnicking at Hanging Rock

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

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

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

12. Or Climb to Camel’s Hump

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

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

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

13. Ride an Historic Train

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

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

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

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

For more information, see my guide to dog-friendly historic train rides in Australia . 

14. Go Underground at Walhalla

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

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

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

Find out more about visiting Walhalla with a dog

15. Visit McClelland’s Sculpture Park

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

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

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

16. Go Leash-Free at the Briars Community Forest

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

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

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

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

17. Stroll Along the Geelong Foreshore

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

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

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

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

18. Head to Fisherman’s Beach in Torquay

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

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

The beach is large enough for a beach stroll, plus for your pup to enjoy a doggie paddle with plenty of space. Before or after, drop into the Salty Dog Cafe located right next to the beach access track. This cafe is very popular with dog owners, with dogs welcome at the outdoor tables and plenty of water bowls on hand. 

19. Visit Forest Glade Gardens

During the Autumn months, Mount Macedon is a popular destination for viewing its colourful Autumn leaves and enjoying its cooler climate. However, Mount Macedon is also worthwhile to visit anytime of year with your dog, thanks to the dog-friendly Forest Glade Gardens .

These privately owned gardens are open daily and were gorgeous on the late spring day that we visited. Allow an hour or more to stroll around the many gardens, including the Japanese-style gardens that are a particular highlight. 

Make sure you bring cash for the entry fee, plus also respect the owners of the property, keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after it. Car parking is on the side of Mount Macedon Road and can be difficult on busy days. 

20. Hike to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls

About a two-hour drive east of Melbourne is the Toorongo Falls Reserve at Noojee. While dogs aren’t allowed in the Yarra Ranges National Park to the north, dogs are allowed at Tooroongo Falls Reserve (including off-leash, as long as they are under effective control).

The highlight of a visit to the reserve is the Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk , that visits the viewing platforms for the close-by Toorongo Falls and the more distant Ampthitheatre Falls. The entire track is 2.2km long and takes about an hour, passing through beautiful rainforest.

While the dog-friendly falls are best viewed after periods of rain, note that the track can get muddy and slippery underfoot, so make sure you pack a towel to clean off your pup.

21. Go Wine Tasting in the Yarra Valley

There’s multiple superb wine regions on the doorstep of Melbourne, but one of the best and the most dog-friendly is the Yarra Valley, the oldest wine region in Victoria. 

It’s just over an hour’s drive to the Yarra Valley, with most vineyards scattered around the towns of Coldstream, Healesville and Yarra Glen. Many of the cellar doors are open daily, and also welcome well-behaved dogs to join you, either outside or even inside. 

To take the hassle out of organising a wine tasting tour, I recommend booking a dog-friendly private winery tour with a company such as Pooches and Pinot . They can organise an itinerary for you, taking into account your tastes and recommending the best dog-friendly wineries, with both half-day and full-day options available. 

Find out more about visiting the Yarra Valley with a dog

22. Or Take a Dog-Friendly Winery Bus Tour

Another option for a dog-friendly day tour where you don’t need to drive are the Gourmet Pawprints Tours on Bella the Dog Welcoming Bus.

Gourmet Pawprints operates tours to multiple wine regions, including the Mornington Peninsula, and the Yarra Valley. They also operate an increasing variety of other tours, from city exploration tours to picnic days out. Check out the latest calendar .

On each tour, there is a charge per human, plus a small charge per dog – up to $25. On board the bus are dog seat belts, seat covers and blankets, plus facilitated dog socialisation before boarding. On winery tours, dogs will also enjoy their own treats, water and a movie over lunch.

23. Explore the Ruins of Maldon

It’s an easy 1hr 40 minute drive from central Melbourne to the former gold mining village of Maldon. Australia’s First Notable Town, after being classified by the National Trust in 1966, it’s a great destination for a dog-friendly day trip.

Take a wander through the main street of the historic town, which is largely unchanged since the 19th-century. There’s plenty of small boutiques and cafes that line the main street. Many of the cafes have dog-friendly tables out the front, or else the beer garden at the Maldon Hotel is pet-friendly.

Don’t also miss exploring the gold ruins adjacent to the township, within the Maldon Historic Reserve, including around the Beehive Mine Chimney immediately to the north. Make sure you pick up a brochure with a map in town. It’s also possible to visit Maldon on the pet-friendly Victorian Goldfield Railways departing Castlemaine (see #12).

24. Visit a Former Gold Mine in Bendigo

Maldon isn’t the only dog-friendly gold mining town in central Victoria, with the city of Bendigo a superb dog-friendly destination and under 2 hours drive from Melbourne. Along with the dog-friendly Vintage Talking Trams, one of the highlights of a visit to Bendigo is visiting the Central Deborah Gold Mine .

While dogs are not surprisingly not permitted on the underground mine tours, they’re welcome to join you on leash in exploring the surface of the former gold mine for free, including ascending halfway up the poppet head along the trestle way (if they can be carried up the stairs). View the original change rooms, blacksmith’s shop and engine room, although staff ask you to minimise time in the museum with your dog.

To explore more of Bendigo’s gold mining heritage, head to the Victoria Hill Historic Mining Reserve. A popular spot for dog walking, the reserve contains a number of old mining relics, including some open cut mines. Park at the carpark on the Calder Highway, where entrance is open from 9am to sunset (during daylight savings time) or 5pm (the rest of the year). 

25. Explore the Western World’s Largest Stupa

The sights of Bendigo aren’t limited to gold mining ruins. One of the most surprising attractions just outside of town is the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion , the largest stupa in the Western World.

Currently under construction about 15 minutes west of Bendigo, the stupa is based on the Gyantse Stupa in Tibet and is surrounded by the Peace Park Gardens, which contains many monuments from a variety of faiths.

Another surprise is that pets are welcome to join you in visiting the stupa, both outside and even inside. (Although this may change once the construction of the interior is complete.) The stupa is open daily, entry by donation, and there is a cafe onsite with plenty of dog-friendly tables.

Find out more about visiting Bendigo with a dog

26. Enjoy a Cruise on the Yarra

To view Melbourne from a different viewpoint, take a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River. And you don’t need to leave your dog behind, with Melbourne River Cruises permitting dogs on board their public Yarra River Cruises . (Note that dogs aren’t permitted on other cruises, including dinner and special event cruises.)

Choose between a one-hour cruise up or down river, visiting either the Port and Docklands or River Gardens precinct, both departing from the Southbank Promenade. Alternatively, combine both together on a 2-hour Melbourne Highlights Cruise. Twilight and sunset cruises are also available during summer.

Cruises operate seven days per week, multiple times per day. Make sure your dog stays on a leash and is well behaved.

27. Or Hire Your Own Boat

If you’d prefer to drive your own boat in Melbourne with your dog on-board consider hiring one of the pet-friendly picnic boats from GoBoat .

Accomodating up to eight people and not requiring a boat license, the luxury electric picnic boats can be hired for between one and three hours, with optional extras including cheese boards and esky hires. BYO picnic and drinks!

GoBoat Melbourne is located on the northern side of the Yarra River, on Banana Alley near Sandridge Bridge. If bringing your dog along, considering packing a doggie life-jacket. Alternatively, it’s easy to attach your dog’s leash to the base of the picnic table.

28. Visit an Historic Botanic Garden

In the latest 19th century, it became the fashion that any well-to-do town in Victoria would have their own botanic garden, both for the propagation of European plant species and a place for locals to spend their leisure time. Many of these are still wonderfully-maintained, and also welcome leashed dogs to join you.

Some of the best historic botanic gardens to visit around Melbourne include fine examples in Kyneton, Malmsbury, Daylesford and Castlemaine. Pack a picnic and hop into your car with your pup to enjoy a country outing at any of these gardens.

The Kyneton Botanic Gardens contains many large National Trust-listed trees, plus are adjacent to the Campaspe River with a wonderful riverside walk. At Malmsbury, don’t miss the views of the grand Malmsbury Viaduct, located at the southern edge of the gardens. The Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens in Daylesford contain a short scenic drive loop, plus the dog-friendly Wombat Hill Cafe. 

29. Hike the George Bass Coastal Walk

For a scenic dog-friendly walking track along the coast, head just over 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne to the George Bass Coastal Walk, located near Phillip Island .

The 7km-long walking track is accessible from either end. Either head to the Shelley Beach Carpark just off the Bass Highway at Kilcunda or to the end of the unsealed Punchbowl Road near San Remo. It takes about 4 hours to complete the entire 14km walk, or else just walk partway and then return along the same route.

While dogs are permitted on leash and it’s well-known as a dog-friendly walk, keep an eye out for signs about 1080 baiting. Baits had been recently laid at the Punchbowl Road end when we visited in November 2021, although there were no signs at the other end. This likely only occurs once a year. 

30. Watch a Movie by Moonlight

Every year, the Moonlight Cinema sets up its screen at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. And if you have a well-behaved pooch who can stay quiet while watching a movie, they’re welcome to join you on your picnic rug. Dogs are welcome in all sections, including premium areas.

With screenings starting at sundown, I know my dog would likely sleep through most of the screening! Just remember to keep your dog on a short leash, and clean up after them. Sometimes special canine-themed movies are even screened throughout the season, which runs from November to March – check the program when its released.

31. Go on a Puppy Pub Crawl

Melbourne is home to plenty of dog-friendly pubs, so why not take your pup on a pub crawl? Puppy Pub Crawl organises group pub crawls for dogs and their owners, visiting some of the best pet-friendly establishments around Melbourne. The pub crawls are also a great opportunity to socialise, both for the pups and the humans.

Regular pub crawls take place all over Melbourne, from St Kilda to Footscray, Collingwood to Prahran. Dogs are provided with doggie cocktails and treats at each venue, with drinks specials and snacks available for humans.

The latest dates are all listed on their Eventbrite page , where you can make a booking for you and your pup. Or stay up to date with the latest announcements on their Facebook page .

32. Chill at a Beach Club

During the long days of summer, a hip place to hang out with your pup is at West Beach Pavilion at St Kilda West Beach. Dogs are allowed on this stretch of sand all day long, but why just laze on the sand when you can rent a sun lounge at the beach club?

The beach club is daily during the summer, from September to March. The sun lounges are suitable for up to four people sitting or two people laying.

Bookings are taken, plus walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability. No booking fee applies, although there is a no show fee. There are also cabanas and party lounges available for larger groups for a booking fee.

Although the beach club is closed over the winter months, the West Beach Pavilion stays open year round until at least sunset, with dogs welcome in outdoor areas.

You May Also Like

• Top Dog-Friendly Short Walks in Victoria
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Victoria
• Beautiful Dog-Friendly Gardens in Victoria to VIsit
• Fun Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Country Victoria

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

1 thought on “32 Best Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne”

I love reading about all the great places to go with my dog around Melbourne! Thanks for sharing!

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