1 day trip melbourne

One Day in Melbourne: Things to Do, Itinerary & Map

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 10, 2023

Planning a one day trip to Melbourne and looking for tips on how to see the best of Melbourne in one day? Wondering what are the best things to do in Melbourne or how to best plan your time? This article with insider tips and recommendations should help you make the most of your short time in the city. Read on!

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most lively and vibrant cities and there is plenty to see and do! Known as a foodie destination, but also for its colorful street art and stunning architecture, Melbourne also has some excellent museums, as well as sporting and cultural events…

With so many awesome things to do in Melbourne for the whole family , you could easily spend a week or more in the city and doing day trips nearby . However, if you’re just passing through and want to see the best of Melbourne in a day, then this guide should help you do just that.

In this article, we cover the best things to do on your first trip to Melbourne , focusing on the main highlights. In addition, you can find a map, tips for getting around the city, and recommendations for the best places to stay . We also included a suggested one day Melbourne itinerary. Find out!

The author of this guide is Melissa who is the writer behind Thrifty Family Travels and Queensland Camping She lives in Queensland, Australia, and has visited Melbourne many, many times. So this one day Melbourne itinerary is filled with insider tips that should help you make the most of your short trip to this bustling city.

Getting Around Melbourne

First things first. The easiest way to get around the Melbourne city center (aka Melbourne CBD) is on foot and by tram. The next thing you need to know is that Melbourne has an awesome City Circle Tram system that is FREE of charge.

This free tram route operates in a circle and you can travel in both directions. With trams running every 12 minutes, this is a very convenient way to get around the city center.

If you happen to stray a little bit too far from the City Circle Tram route, you can use rideshares like Uber or DiDi. That way you don’t waste too much time.

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus is also a good option for those who want to see as much as possible in a day. The bus is not really necessary if you are only planning to stay in the city center. But if you want to see more of Melbourne and visit places that are a bit further away, then it can be a good way to do it in just a day.

The actual CBD of Melbourne is not overly big, so you can see quite a lot in a day. To help you work out where everything is, I’ve put together this map so you can easily make your way around the city.

You can easily walk between many of the attractions and take a tram for the places that are somewhat further away.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Now that you know how best to get around the city and where everything is, let’s take a look in detail at what you can see and do in Melbourne in a day.

Things to Do in Melbourne in 1 Day

Flinders street railway station.

Flinders Street Train Station is one of the main train stations in Melbourne. The building that houses the station is over 100 years old and pretty impressive. It’s an iconic landmark and one of the places to see in Melbourne.

The art-nouveau style building backs onto the Yarra River and has a prominent dome, arched entrance, tower, and numerous clocks. If locals tell you “let’s meet under the clocks” , you’ll find them here. The building is exquisite both inside and out and well worth a few minutes of your time.

Here’s an interesting fact. Not only is the building impressive, but the railway station is also home to Australia’s longest train platform. With 708 meters (0,44 miles), it is also the 4th longest platform in the world!

The pedestrian crossing outside the station is one of the busiest in all of Melbourne. It’s an experience in itself. Crossing the road here is something that you really should do when visiting the city; just be careful!

Federation Square

As you walk across the road from Flinders Street Train Station, you’ll arrive at Federation Square . It’s a bustling heart of the city with restaurants, bars, and a few shops. It’s also a very popular venue for various events. There always appears to be something going here!

The square holds around 2000 events each year such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Melbourne Festival, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. It is also the site for various public rallies. You can check their official website to see what’s happening there on the day of your visit.

If there is nothing happening on the day you visit, you could spend an hour or so at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) which is located here. The exhibition is free and is an interesting showcase of how TV, film, and other forms of entertainment has evolved over time in Australia. Often, they also have other exhibitions as well.

TIP: While you’re here make sure you pop on over to the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral for a great view of the area.

Street Art & Melbourne Laneways

Melbourne is a hip city. Its famous narrow laneways are lined with trendy cafes and colorful street art is one of the city’s most popular attractions.

If you like looking for street art, head to Hosier Lane . That’s where the most famous artwork is located. As you find your way there, peer down the various narrow laneways and side streets. If you see a group of people standing around, chances are big that there is some great street art here.

As you are well aware, street art changes all the time, so if you want to see some of the best places, consider joining a guided tour with a local. Here you can find a nice selection of Melbourne street art tours and tours that focus on more local experiences.

Coffee & Shopping Arcades

Supposedly Melbourne has the highest density of cafes and restaurants per capita in the world!

As you stroll around in this area, you’ll come across many excellent little cafes hidden away. It might be a good time to stop for a morning coffee or brunch. If you can’t find anything that you like, then head to Degraves Street . Here, you’ll find lots of cafes with outdoor seating.

If you’re into your shopping you’ll also find a range of super cute boutiques in the area too. Or head to one of Melbourne’s shopping arcades. Even if you are not planning to do any shopping, some of these historic arcades are well worth seeing. Check out the Royal Arcade and the Walk Arcade (both on Bourke Street), and also the Block Arcade on Collins Street.

Melbourne Skydeck (previously Eureka Skydeck)

Next, head back out towards the Yarra River and take the footbridge to the other side. The area on the other side of the bridge is called Southbank. It’s home to a range of restaurants, the Crown Casino and the Melbourne Skydeck.

The Melbourne Skydeck is the tallest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a great place to get 360-degree views across the city. The Skydeck is located on the 88th floor, but you wouldn’t know it because the elevator ride takes just a few seconds.

If you have no fear of heights, you may want to try the “Edge Experience”. This is the Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform, a glass cube that sticks 3 meters out from the side of the building offering amazing views. It’s a truly exhilarating experience.

TIP: With just a day in Melbourne and limited time, it’s best to get the entry tickets in advance . On busy days, it can save you quite some time.

Good to know: You don’t need more than 15-20 minutes at the Melbourne Skydeck, plus some time to get to the top, etc. In any case, this is something that you can easily add to your one-day itinerary in Melbourne.

Cruise on the Yarra River

If you’re up for it and time permits, why not take a Yarra River Cruise . It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the city and see many different areas, especially for those who only have limited time. During the cruise, you can sit back and relax as you take in the various city landmarks. It’s also a good way to rest your legs from all the walking.

Some of the highlights of the river cruise include seeing the West Gate Bridge, a 19th-century sailing ship, the Polly Woodside, Docklands Crown Entertainment Complex, Princes Bridge, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Government House, Olympic Park, Herring Island, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and many more.

There are a variety of river cruises available from either the Southbank side of the river or by Federation Square. So, depending on which side you take your cruise from, you can either do this before or after visiting the Skydeck.

Queen Victoria Market

No doubt by now you’ve well and truly worked up an appetite. So head on over to the Queen Victora Market for lunch. This is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere and features some of Melbourne’s most delicious food!

This place is huge! Any food you can think of, you will find it here. From delicious cheeses from around the world, smoked and cured meats, locally produced wines, freshly cooked donuts, and loads more… So make sure you come with a healthy appetite.

As well as unbelievable food and fresh produce, Queen Victoria Market also houses some great stores selling clothes, antiques, and Aboriginal arts and souvenirs.

Good to know: Queen Victoria Market is open daily except for Mondays and Wednesdays. It closes at 3 PM on weekdays and at 4 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s located a bit further away from the previously mentioned attractions, so you may want to take a free tram to get here faster.

Visit one of the Melbourne Museums

In the afternoon, check out one of the city’s various museums in Melbourne. Depending on your interests, there are loads of options to choose from. With just one day in the city, I suggest you pick just one of the places mentioned below.

A few blocks from Queen Victoria Market is the Melbourne Museum , the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a natural history museum where you can see various local historical and cultural artifacts. Here you can learn about the origin of life in Victoria dating back to 600 million years ago, see prehistoric creatures, or learn about Indigenous Culture.

One of my personal favorites is Old Melbourne Gaol . It’s a former jail that has been turned into a museum. For 87 years, this gaol was the home for both minor offenders as well as notorious criminals. It was here that the infamous Australian bushranger Ned Kelly was executed saying the words “such is life”. Wandering through this old prison is a fascinating experience!

This is a good museum to visit as you only need 1-1.5 hours for it. See their website for more information.

Another good option is the Immigration Museum . It’s a fantastic place to learn about the past of the Australian people. This museum is located in the Old Customs House and displays a range of interesting immigrant stories.

Alternatively, you may want to check out the State Library Victoria . The La Trobe Reading Room is spectacular and worth a visit in itself! This impressive reading room has a round shape and is located under a majestic dome. It has become popular with those looking for the best Instagrammable spots in Melbourne.

Other interesting museums to explore include Sceinceworks, the National Sports Museum, the Medical History Museum, and many others. But with just one day in Melbourne, I think you’ll find plenty of better things to do.

Fitzroy Gardens

Historic Fitzroy Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in Melbourne. It has a model Tudor village, an ornamental shrub, several fountains, lots of flowers, and tree-lined walking paths. There is also a cafe and a playground for kids.

This is not an absolute must in the city, but really nice to see, especially if you are visiting Melbourne with kids. Don’t miss the Cooks’ Cottage and the Conservatory. Kids will love the Dolphin Fountain and the Fairies Tree.

Interesting to know: Captain Cook’s Cottage is the original house of Captain Cook who mapped the east coast of Australia in 1770. The house that originally stood in England, was shipped to Australia in 1934 and re-erected in Fitzroy Gardens.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne is a great city for sports fans, especially if you happen to be in town on a Friday or Saturday night. One of the best places to be is the Melbourne Cricket Ground , also known as MCG.

If you enjoy cricket, you may even be able to see a game ( check the MCG events calendar ).

But you can also visit Australia’s favorite stadium even if there is no game. They have an interesting museum and offer behind-the-scenes stadium tours .

Catch a Show

If you’re not the sporty type, then how about seeing a theatre production in the evening? Melbourne has some great performances throughout the year at both the Regent Theatre or Princess Theatre .

Some of the shows are so popular that people often fly down to see them from other east coast cities. On the website of the city of Melbourne , you can find a calendar with all the theater performances and shows.

Dinner in Chinatown

There are numerous wonderful places for dinner in Melbourne such as Southbank along the Yarra River or in Lygon Street. But one of the best places for dinner is Melbourne’s Chinatown .

The most popular dish to eat in Chinatown is dumplings! But of course, you’ll find all sorts of Asia cuisines including Thai food, ramen, yum cha, and more.

There is a range of great places to eat. Just follow your nose or better yet, if you find a place with a long line then you know it’s going to be good. Some popular places include Shanghai Village, ShanDong Mama, Longrain, Mr Ramen San, or Secret Kitchen. I indicated all of these in the map above.

Melbourne’s Chinatown is located in the area between Little Bourke Street, from Swanston Street to Spring Street. Be sure to wander down all the little arcades throughout the area as this is where you’ll often find some of the best places.

One Day Melbourne Itinerary

So there you have it, the best things to do on a one day trip in Melbourne. Below, you can find an overview of a perfect Melbourne itinerary for 1 day, following our suggestions above.

Here’s what your day in Melbourne could look like:

• Start your morning at Flinders Street Train Station .
• Head across to Federation Square and see what’s on, if there is nothing on of interest to you, consider checking out the ACMI.
• Check out Melbourne’s famous street art and grab yourself a coffee from one of the cafes in the narrow laneways.
• Cross the Yarra River and check out the city views from the Melbourne Skydeck .
• If time permits take a cruise down the Yarra River .
• Head to Queen Victoria Market for some lunch.
• After lunch, check out one of Melbourne’s great museums and/or check out Fitzroy Gardens .
• In the evening, watch a game, go to the theatre , or take a pub-crawl tour if that’s more your thing.
• Have dinner in Chinatown .

If you find this itinerary too busy and rather have a more relaxing day instead of trying to see everything, skip one or two places that don’t interest you much. Also, if there is something that you absolutely want to see, you may want to do it first to ensure that you don’t run out of time.

TIP: If you want to see all the highlights of Melbourne in a short time or if you rather go discover some hidden gems in the city, you can also consider a walking tour with a local guide. There are various tours available and they usually don’t take more than a few hours. So you can easily incorporate a tour like that in your one-day itinerary.

If You Have More Time

If you have two or three days in Melbourne, consider taking a day trip to see some of the stunning nature nearby. As nice as Melbourne is, it would be a shame not to explore more of its surroundings.

The most popular day trips from Melbourne are the famous Great Ocean Road (must do!), the Grampians National Park (our personal favorite in the area), and Phillip Island , where, among others, you can expect to see koalas and penguins.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

No matter what your budget is, there are plenty of good accommodation options in Melbourne. If you have just one day in Melbourne, I suggest staying very centrally. That way, you can make the most of your time.

Here are some of my personal recommendations for places to stay in Melbourne city center, depending on your budget:

• $$$$$ Grand Hyatt . This centrally located 5* hotel is one of the top picks in Melbourne. Located within easy walking distance from most of the above-mentioned attractions, the hotel features rooms in different sizes, including big family rooms for up to 6 people.
• $$$$ DoubleTree by Hilton . This is a great centrally located 4* hotel , just minutes from Flinders Street Station and all the cool little Melbourne laneways.
• $$$ The Victoria Hotel . This is the most popular lower-mid budget hotel just a short walk from Federation Square. It’s very centrally located and has thousands of great customer reviews.
• $$ Space Hotel . This is a very popular budget hotel with great facilities (including a movie theatre, rooftop bar, and a gym). It has various room types (most with shared bathrooms), but there are also double and family rooms with private bathrooms.

READ ALSO: Great Ocean Road – Best Places to See

More travel tips for Australia:

• Planning a trip to Australia
• Australia itinerary
• 1 Day in Sydney
• Things to Do in Hobart, Tasmania
• Kennet River Koala Walk
• Kangaroo Island
• Alice Springs to Uluru – Red Center Itinerary
• Darwin Itinerary

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IMAGE CREDITS: Featured image – fotfritz/Depositphotos.com// Federation Square – f11photo/Depositphotos.com// Hosier Lane – Javen/Depositphotos.com// Melbourne street art – ThriftyFamilyTravels.com// Aboriginal art at Queen Victoria Market -zhukovsky/Depositphotos.com// Old Melbourne Gaol – lucidwaters/Depositphotos.com// La Trobe Reading Room – richie0730/Depositphotos.com// Regent Theater – TKKurikawa/Depositphotos.com// Melbourne Chinatown- dbajurin/Depositphotos.com

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One Day in Melbourne Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is the most enjoyable city to live in in the world! It may not boast the stunning views of the Sydney Harbour, but it is the cultural and food capital of Australia. If you’re into coffee, Melbourne has some of the best coffee in the world – there’s no need to search far and wide: when you walk into a café in Melbourne, you are guaranteed a delicious coffee. The city is also known for its sports and has been named the sports capital of the world after hosting globally renowned events for a number of years. One day in the marvelous Melbourne is definitely not enough, and you WILL want to come back!!!

GUEST POST BY CHARLENE HALES BLOG: Travel with Charl

What’s the best time to visit Melbourne?

Melbourne has very mild weather conditions all year around, so it’s always a good time to visit. In the warmer months, December to May, you can visit stunning beaches only a short tram ride or drive away from the city center and enjoy outdoor dining. Melbourne hosts the Australian Tennis Open in January, which attracts many tourists and is a fun day out. It also has many gardens and parks and celebrates countless outdoor festivals during this time, such as the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival . In the cooler months, you can still experience Melbourne culture by visiting museums, exploring the city laneways, and much much more.

What’s good to know about Melbourne?

The first people to live around the area which is now Melbourne were the Aboriginal people . In 1835 John Batman and a group of businessmen bought some land from the local Aborigines for some trinkets. In 1837 the new settlement was named Melbourne (after the British Prime Minister at the time: Lord Melbourne). Due to the gold rush in a nearby town, Melbourne became Australia’s largest city in the 1860s and was also the capital city for some years and before Canberra was built. Although a fairly new city, Melbourne has preserved a lot of its Victorian architecture and now boasts a perfect mixture of the old and new.

One Day in Melbourne Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Melbourne.

Start your day at Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station is one of Melbourne’s iconic buildings. It certainly stands out in terms of architecture, and its central location makes it an ideal meeting spot and starting point for your one day in Melbourne.

Federation Square

From Flinders Street Station, cross St Kilda Road to Federation Square . You will either love or hate the modern and somewhat abstract buildings, nothing in-between. It is one of the city’s most important cultural places. Enjoy the free interactive Australian Film Exhibition which has something interesting for all ages, the Gallery dedicated to Australian artists, or simply stroll around and enjoy the surrounding views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Yarra River and Flinders Street Station.

Laneways & street art – a must see!

From Federation Square, cross Russell Street over to St Paul’s Cathedral . If you wish, have a look inside as the architecture is pretty amazing. Then head up the street to Hosier Lane and its nearby laneways, which in my opinion showcases Melbourne’s best street art . On weekends, you are sure to see several wedding parties using the super cool street art as a backdrop for their wedding shots. You are also likely to bump into some street artists creating their latest tag and art. As you walk through Melbourne’s inner city, other laneways you should check out include Union Place, ACDC Lane, Caledonian Lane and Centre Place (also a good place to grab a tasty and cheap bite to eat).

Coffee break

A visit to Melbourne is incomplete without a coffee. While admiring Melbourne’s laneways, head to Degraves Street. This European-style laneway is a hub for coffee shops and restaurants, no matter the weather, grab a table outside, order a coffee (and a late brunch) and enjoy people watching.

Melbourne from up high

Take one of several footbridges that cross the Yarra River to the Southbank area and head over to Eureka Sky Deck . This is the tallest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere with floor to ceiling windows, so you will experience outstanding 360 degree views of the city and beyond.

Walk along the banks of the Yarra River . Enjoy river and city views and the buzz of the many street performers along the way. To quench your thirst, head down to Ponyfish Island via a set of stairs, a bar on an island under a bridge in the middle of the river. It’s a really fun vibe especially on weekend afternoons.

There are endless dining options in Melbourne. You can opt to stay in the Southbank area with an array of different cuisines and top-notch restaurants but note that most places are on the expensive side.

Recommendation – head back over the bridge by foot or tram and go to Chinatown on Little Bourke Street. This area is famous for Chinese food including dumplings, Peking duck and Sichuan. Enjoy a cheap but delicious feast together with your BYO bottle of wine or whisky in a casual and lively atmosphere.

For the little people

Head over to Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium for a few hours of interactive fun.

Where to stay in Melbourne?

The Victoria Hotel

215 Little Collins Street, 3000 Melbourne

The Victoria Hotel is a perfectly located value deal hotel , only a short walk from the Federation Square. The rooms offer comfortable stay and classical-style furnishings. The hotel features a swimming pool, a sauna and a rooftop fitness center.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Quest Flemington Central

1 Ascot Vale Road, Flemington , 3031 Melbourne

Quest Flemington Central is a  unique design hotel experience , located next to the Flemington Racecourse. The hotel features sensational building facilities including an infinity pool, gym and a rooftop terrace. The apartments offer a luxury and comfortable stay for both business and leisure travelers.

Art Series – The Larwill Studio

48 Flemington Road, 3052 Melbourne

Art Series – The Larwill Studio are  exceptional contemporary suites only an 8 minutes’ drive from Melbourne city center. The spacious rooms offer amazing comfort and feature artwork by David Larwill. Their shared areas are designed to help you enjoy your stay to the fullest.

Melbourne Central YHA

562 Flinders Street, 3000 Melbourne

Melbourne Central YHA tends to be the most liveable hostel in Melbourne, located within the Free Tram Zone. Perfect for younger travelers and backpackers, this hostel offers the ultimate Melbourne experience and features a rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities and amazing city views.

DAY TRIPS FROM MELBOURNE

Not only is this city a fascinating place to visit, but it also provides plenty of opportunities if you want to leave town for a while and check out what else there is to enjoy in the vicinity. Day trips from Melbourne are a lot of fun, and here’s what you should definitely consider.

Great Ocean Road

If you want to experience the full beauty of Australian coast, you absolutely must hit the Great Ocean Road. It is an astonishing day trip from Melbourne which will take you near some truly spectacular sights. Seeing the incredible Twelve Apostles is something you’ll never forget, and you can enjoy visits to two national parks along the way – Great Otway and Port Campbell. Hanging out with koalas  at Kennet River is also a very alluring option.

Phillip Island

Animal lovers simply cannot afford to miss a trip to Phillip Island. All kinds of creatures characteristic for Australia can be found on this trip as your first stop should be Maru Koala and Animal Park  where you can see koalas, wombats, kangaroos and even Tasmanian devils! From there it’s just a short ride to the island itself, and the main stars there are – penguins . Watching them climb the beach to their burrows at sunset will make you feel you’re in a fairy tale.

Yarra Valley

Those of you who appreciate great wines will want to head to Yarra Valley. This is the place where some of Australia’s best wines (and there are quite a few excellent ones) are produced. The valley itself is absolutely beautiful and a great place to take some photos, but you will also see loads of wineries along the way. Taste what they have to offer, enjoy a delicious lunch and check out some really old tools that were used to help manufacture wines. Foodies will absolutely love this trip, but even if you don’t consider yourself to be a gastronomy enthusiast a trip to Australia’s countryside will be well worth it.

Puffing Billy

A very special day trip from Melbourne can be had if you hop aboard Puffing Billy, Australia’s oldest steam train . You can ride all over Victoria with it and get to know this incredible region more closely. From rainforests and valleys to various mountains and ridges, nothing can stop this fascinating machine. You will also be able to observe wildlife along the way and all in all have an absolutely magical experience. Sounds great, doesn’t it?

Extra tips for visiting Melbourne

– Melbourne is best explored by foot , as its grid-like streets are easy to navigate and most attractions are within a walking distance.

– If you feel that you’ve walked enough for one day, take the free City Circle Tram , number 35. The free City Circle tram operates in a circular route passing major tourist attractions. Start your journey at Flinders Street Station and work your way around the city.

– The quickest and easiest way to travel from the airport into the city is by taxi and takes around 20-30 minutes, but try to avoid the morning peak time of 7-9 am.

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Melbourne Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Charlene Hales

Charlene was born in Malta but grew up in Melbourne - Australia where she calls 'home'. Charlene started her expat career in May 2011 when she and her husband, newlyweds of 5 months, expatriated to Bangkok – Thailand. Bangkok is truly the city that never sleeps and they loved every crazy piece of it, the friendliest people that you’ll ever meet and the most flavorsome cuisine. After 2 amazing years they moved back home to Melbourne. In June 2016 it was time for a new adventure so Charlene and her husband flew across the world and expatriated to Nuremberg – Germany. Nuremberg has to be one of the prettiest cities she has ever seen, she still pinches herself when she walks by the Castle on her way home and considers herself very lucky to be living there. Charlene is now learning German and exploring Europe.

I blog frequently and I truly thank you for your information. The article has truly peaked my interest. I will book mark your website and keep checking for new details about once per week. I subscribed to your Feed as well.

I am coming to Melbourne in November but only for one day.I know about the city circle tram.I was wondering what other things you could suggest

You should definitely check the botanic gardens if you haven’t already and maybe do a street art tour, that one is interesting. Oh and go visit the block arcade as well!

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How to spend one day in Melbourne: the ultimate Melbourne 1-day itinerary

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

When it comes to amazing cities in Australia, Melbourne sets the standard!

If you are stopping by and wondering how to spend one day in Melbourne, you’ve come to the right place!

Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria. It’s also known as the cultural capital of Australia ! There is so much you can do in Melbourne and although one day is a bit short, let’s make the best of it!

In this article, you will discover exactly what to do in Melbourne in one day but also where to eat and what to wear!

We will mainly focus on Melbourne CBD and surrounding suburbs as you won’t want to spend the day in public transport.

So, are you ready to discover the ultimate 1-day Melbourne itinerary? Let’s get started!

🔎 Table of Contents

Melbourne 1-day itinerary Map

Here is the map of all the places you will visit in Melbourne (as indicated in the itinerary below).

1 Day in Melbourne Itinerary

Here is exactly the itinerary to follow to spend the best 24 hours in Melbourne, Australia.

Morning: Walking tour of Melbourne CBD (guided or self-guided)

If you love guided walking tours, this one is for you ! If you don’t, feel free to opt for the self-guided version of this walking tour. Details a bit below.

The reason why I highly recommend going on a walking tour is that you are only in Melbourne for one day! You need to see as much as possible, as efficiently as possible.

If you opt for a walking tour , you will not only get to see the most famous sites in Melbourne but also learn about the history and local culture.

On this walking tour, you will be starting in Gordon Reserve. The park is located between Flinders Street Station and Carlton. From there, you can access everything on foot, which is very practical.

During the tour, you will get to see:

• Flinders Street Station
• The arcades
• Hosier Lane
• Yarra River banks
• And plenty more!

The guide will also bring you to a local cafe and bar where you can try a typical Melbourne coffee and some delicious Aussie food and beer.

Melbourne is Australia’s coffee capital and if there is one thing you must do there, it’s drinking coffee!

The guided tour is a great way to experience the city.

The guide will also give you plenty of insider tips which always comes in handy. It’s a small group so you can talk and won’t feel lost. It starts at 11 am.

Click here to see the latest prices.

If you are on a budget and don’t mind being in a big group, you can opt for a free walking tour of Melbourne .

Don’t forget you still need to tip the guide, so it’s not exactly free, but it’s a good budget option!

If you wish to do that on your own, here is the itinerary:

• Start at Flinders Street Station
• Cross the Princes bridge
• Walk down the Yarra River banks
• Cross the Evan walker bridge and walk back to Federation Square
• Head straight to St Paul cathedral
• Keep going until you reach Hosier Lane (on your left). This street is extremely famous for its street art!
• Walk up Russell Street and turn right on Chinatown
• Keep going until you reach the Parliament House
• Head to Carlton Gardens
• Walk down to old Carlton and Lygon Street

Lunch in Carlton

Carlton is Melbourne’s Italian quarter. It’s also known as the birthplace of the coffee culture in the city and is one of the best places to grab a bite to eat!

I particularly recommend Tiamo. They serve amazing Italian food and the staff is very friendly!

It’s one of the oldest restaurants on Lygon Street and it won’t disappoint. They also serve food until quite late which will come in handy, especially if you went on the walking tour.

You can see the menu on their official website.

Afternoon: Botanical gardens and amazing views of Melbourne

After your lunch in Carlton, hop on the tramway 1 or 6 from Lygon St down to Arts Precinct/St Kilda Rd. From there, you will walk 10 minutes to the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens

The botanical gardens are a great place to go for a peaceful walk, away from the crowds!

It’s so nice to wander around and look at the beautiful plants.

And the entrance is free, which is always a nice thing!

Shrine of Remembrance

After your visit, head to the Shrine of Remembrance. It was built as a war memorial and has a strong significance.

The building itself, although interesting, is not the main attraction there.

The best thing about the Shrine is that you will get to enjoy amazing views of the Melbourne skyline!

It’s also a great photo spot!

Once you reach the top, you will see exactly what I mean!

Eureka Tower

The Eureka Tower is a skyscraper located in the South bank of Melbourne. It’s the second tallest building in the city and is well known for featuring amazing views of Melbourne.

From the Shrine, you only need to walk 10 minutes.

I particularly recommend going at the end of the day so you get to enjoy the sunset as well.

The entrance costs $25 and should be booked in advance.

It’s a pretty popular place and if you want to make sure you can go, especially for sunset, you should consider booking your ticket online.

Click here for prices and availability.

Dinner in Chinatown

Melbourne’s Chinatown is an institution! It’s the second oldest Chinatown in the world! If you followed this Melbourne 1-day itinerary, you should have already walked around Chinatown in the morning.

But it would be a shame to leave without trying the food!

After visiting the Eureka Tower, head to Little Bourke street. Walk under the arches that mark the beginning of Chinatown and discover the restaurants!

There are so many of them and to be honest, you can’t really get it wrong! I would recommend just picking the one that appeals the most to you.

That having been said, I appreciate that there are so many of them that it can get a bit overwhelming.

If you don’t know which one to choose, head to Shanghai Village. They serve delicious dumplings and the prices are very good! It’s also BYO so if you are after a cheap and delicious meal, that will be the perfect place for you!

Drinks at Berlin bar

Melbourne is known for its nightlife and secret bars! Located only 1 minute walk from Little Bourke Street, Berlin bar is a great place to grab drinks.

This bar features a very unique theme: Germany during the cold war. They serve amazing cocktails and prices are very reasonable. Cocktails cost about $12, which is pretty good for Melbourne CBD.

It’s a great place to enjoy your evening and discover a hidden gem in Melbourne!

And this is it for our Melbourne 1 day itinerary! As you can see, St Kilda is not included there. It takes quite a bit of time to get there by public transport and there is so much to see in the CBD that it’s better to focus on that when you only have a day in Melbourne.

If you wanted to see St Kilda and other hidden gems, feel free to check our 2-day or 3-day itineraries.

Now that you know what to do in Melbourne in 24 hours, here is some practical information about the city.

Where to stay in Melbourne CBD

If you are only here for a day, you may not need a place to stay but in case you do, here are some great options.

💵 Budget accommodation: The Mansion Melbourne . Located on the edge of the CBD, near Carlton Gardens, the Mansion is one of the best hostels in the city.

💵 💵 Mid-range accommodation: The Victoria Hotel . Ideally located in the heart of Melbourne CBD, it’s a great option for couples and travellers looking for a bit more comfort and privacy than a backpacker.

💵 💵 💵 Luxury accommodation: QT Melbourne . Situated on Russell Street, this is pretty much as good as it can get in terms of location and features.

Finally, you can also check out this list of unique Airbnbs in Victoria, it includes some pretty cool places in Melbourne!

Public transport in Melbourne

🛫 🏙️ From the airport to Melbourne CBD: The best way to get from the airport to the city is by taking the Skybus. It costs about $19.75 one way, $36.50 return.

I appreciate that it’s not cheap but it’s also only 20-30 min long and way more affordable than a taxi (unless you are 4 people). It can be booked in advance here .

🚋 Trams in the city: You normally need a Miki card to take the tram in Melbourne however, if you are only staying in the CBD, you will be within the free tram zone.

This means you can hop on and off the tram and won’t have to pay for it. Make sure you don’t go any further than the free zone though.

If you do (in Carlton for example), make sure you get a Miki card in a 7 Eleven. It costs $5 and you should top it up with $5 dollars. At the end of the day, bring it back to a 7 Eleven and they will give you the 5 bucks back.

What to wear in Melbourne for one day

As a general thing, make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes. I personally liked wearing converses in Melbourne.

In summer, it will be quite hot so shorts and t-shirts will be perfect. With a jeans jacket for the evening.

In winter, it will be cold! Colder than you expect! Make sure you are wearing a coat or a good jacket, a pair of jeans and warm shoes.

All of that having been said, Melbourne is known for its changing weather. Melbournians always say they get the 4 seasons in one day.

This is ABSOLUTELY true! It can be super hot in the morning, rainy at lunchtime and cold in the afternoon.

My best recommendation is to check the weather forecast for the whole day (hour per hour) and pack accordingly. A light rain jacket is always a good thing to have in your bag.

Here we go, now you know everything about how to spend 24 hours in Melbourne! Have fun!

You may also be interested in:

• Day trip from Melbourne to Brighton Bathing Boxes
• 7 Best Day Trips from Melbourne, Victoria
• Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Itineraries
• Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Victoria, Australia

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

One Day in Melbourne – A 24 Hour Itinerary

• Post last modified: January 15, 2023
• Post category: Australia / Day trips / Itineraries / Oceania

If you only have one day in Melbourne, you’ll enjoy your time in this lively city that is a cultural hotspot of Australia. Melbourne is filled with exciting historical attractions, hip dining options, plentiful shopping centers and amazing sports venues.

Melbourne is an amazing city with with an easy to explore Central Business District making it perfect for a day trip. However, with so many things to see and do it’s hard to choose how to spend your time. If you’re short on time, we’ve put together a perfect way to see the best of Melbourne in one day.

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When to visit.

A day trip to Melbourne really is great year round. With mild temperatures year round, there isn’t a bad time to visit. However, visiting in the spring and summer will provide you with an opportunity to see the town with a few less people around.  

How to Get Around?

When you’re exploring the city, make sure to take full advantage of the Circle City Tram. This tram runs in a circle around the central business district (CBD). The best part is it is completely FREE! This feature of the city makes Melbourne one of the most amazing big cities to explore for a tourist. The tram runs regularly and frequently and some trams even have an audio tour that plays along.  

You can easily fly into the Melbourne airport, take a taxi or a shuttle to the CBD and spend your one day in Melbourne traveling only by foot and by free tram!

Morning in Melbourne

Start your one day in Melbourne with a ride on the Circle City Tram. Take the tram past the Parliament house and explore the area around the parliament buildings. You could even take a free tour of the building if you’re there at the right time.  

Hop back on the tram and head to Flinders street and explore this bustling street. Explore the shops as well as the amazing architecture of St Paul’s Cathedral.

Next, hop back on the Circle City Tram and take it to the Queen Victoria Market. This massive open air market is the BEST market we have ever visited. You can prowl for everything here, from clothes to jewelry to food to Australian souvenirs. Our first stop was the food stalls. Rather than eat lunch at a traditional restaurant, prowl the food stall at the market and try one of as many things as possible. The variety of this meal and the shear fun we had choosing foods made this one of our favorite Australian meals.  

After lunch continue exploring the market with some shopping. This is a great place to stock up on traditional souvenirs as well.  

Afternoon in Melbourne

In the afternoon of your one day in Melbourne, enjoy the full experience of a few attractions. You’ll most likely only have time to explore one or two destinations fully. We choose to visit the State Library of Victoria and the Old Melbourne Gaol.

The State Library of Victoria is an amazing piece of architecture to explore. The library is also home to some amazing special exhibits about Australian history. The best part about visiting this historic library is it is completely FREE.

The Old Melbourne Gaol is one Melbourne’s earliest jails and the site of more than 100 hangings. You can take full tours of the goal, which also include the history of the infamous Ned Kelly. Once done with the gaol, you can visit two other justice buildings, the City Watch house (a newer jail) and the Old Magistrates’ Court.  

Before heading to dinner, head over to the Fitzroy Gardens and take a leisurely stroll and reflect upon your day in Melbourne. Our you could walk by the Shrine of Remembrance, the state’s largest war memorial and visit the Royal Botanic Gardens.  

Evening in Melbourne

Enjoy dinner at one of the amazing restaurants that Melbourne has to offer. After dinner, hop over to the Melbourne Cricket Grounds and top your night off with a cricket match. For the Americans out there, cricket is most closely compared to baseball. We spent the night watching our first cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Grounds complete with fireworks and live concert. This is definitely a Melbourne must!

Want to Adjust the Itinerary?

If you have more than one day in Melbourne, we’d suggest taking more time to explore all the amazing things to do in the Central Business District. We would have loved to explore the National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Aquarium if we had had time. We’d also highly recommend taking a day trip from Melbourne.  

Or add on a day trip from Melbourne. Our favorite day trip in all of Australia is the Great Ocean Road and this is only a short drive from Melbourne.

Or check out some of these tours to add on to an extra day in Melbourne. By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

What to Pack?

Pack your amazing camera to catch all the best shots Melbourne has to offer. We also love packing our backpack style camera case, especially for a day like this with all of the walking.  

And speaking of all the walking, make sure to pack yourself some comfortable shoes because no matter how much you think you’ll be hoping on and off the tram, you’ll be doing enough walking to make your feet sore.

As with any other Australian destination, make sure to pack and wear your sunscreen. You’re only spending one day in Melbourne but make sure you don’t burned.

By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

How much to budget?

Melbourne is a large city and therefore tends to be a bit pricier than other Australian destinations. Hotels in the city average around $200 USD each night. We stayed in an AirBnB and were able to find an apartment in the CBD for under $100 USD each night.  

The meals we were interested in in Melbourne were pricy. This is no surprise considering Melbourne is quickly becoming a trendy foodie destination. We spent about $30 USD per person on each meal. You could easily find less expensive meals, around $10 USD, if you were interested but it may be worth splurging in this foodie city. One thing we found surprising was that coffee and alcohol in Melbourne were extremely expensive. We simply abstained from these beverages but keep that in mind if you can’t live without one or both. Buying these beverages from markets would be a cost saving option.  

Some activities in Melbourne do have high admission prices. However, there are plenty of free activities in the city. This combined with the free Circle City Tram means that you can easily take a one day trip to Melbourne on a limited budget.  

For our list of mostly free things to do in Melbourne, check out our post here.

We hope this post has helped you to plan your own day trip to Melbourne. If you have any comments or questions, please leave them in the section below.

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Next time, come to Melbourne between April & August to catch an AFL (Aussie Rules) game at the MCG. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a 60-80,000 strong crowd. The ‘G’ has a capacity of around 90,000 people which makes it one of the biggest stadiums in the world.

We’ll definitely catch another game if we come back. It was so much fun learning about cricket and the stadium was amazing when it wasn’t full 🙂

Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the best cricket stadium in the world.

That’s why we think this is the perfect to place to watch your first cricket match like we did 🙂

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1 Day Itinerary Trip in Melbourne City with free tram – Discover Melbourne’s Hidden Gems (Updated 2024)

• On March 25, 2023
• In Australia , Travel

Plan to visit Melbourne? Save money on unnecessary expenses? In this post, I will outline a 1 day itinerary trip in Melbourne City with free tram.

Melbourne is a busy city with many attractions and landmarks that highlight its fascinating history, culture, and architecture.

If you just have 1 day in Melbourne City, I will suggest you to visit Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Library, Melbourne Town Hall, Federation Square, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and Dockland.

All of these locations are in Melbourne City and are accessible through free trams and a short walk from the tram station.

If you want to discover more about the Melbourne public transportation card, I recommend reading my post about the Myki card in Melbourne .

Table of Contents

Queen Victoria Market (QVM)

First attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

Queen Victoria Market (QVM) is Australia’s most well-known open-air market. If you are in Melbourne, this is a must-visit landmark in your 1 Day Itinerary Trip in Melbourne City.

There are numerous stalls selling anything from fresh fruits and vegetables to delectable meats, seafood and cheeses. They also have apparel and souvenir stalls.

This is an ideal location for both visitors and locals because it caters to everyone’s needs.

QVM Opening Hours

The Queen Victoria Market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and weekends. Weekdays from 6 m to 3pm, Saturday from 6am to 4pm, and Sunday from 9am to 4pm.

Please keep in mind that the apparel and souvenir stalls open at 9 a.m. on every Market day.

There are extended hours known as Night market, every Wednesday from 5pm to 10pm. There will be a variety of food stalls from many countries, as well as live music and performances. It is usually open in the winter and summer. Please check their website for further information on the dates.

QVM Admission Fees

The Queen Victoria Market has no admission costs.

QVM Location

The Queen Victoria Market is located at the Queen Street. You can reach here by tram 19, 57 and 59, which are free.

QVM Duration Recommendation

We recommend spending 1.5 – 2 hours exploring the market.

QVM Food Recommendation

If you want sweet delights, check out the food truck in the midst of the Queen Victoria Market. Given how consistently abundant and chewy the filling is, these doughnuts rank among the greatest you will ever eat. Whether you are craving a classic glazed or something a little more experimental, this food truck has what you are craving.

When it comes to seafood, oysters are unquestionably a treat that lingers on your taste receptors. For all foodies out there, these are a definite must-try because they are flavorful and fresh. Also, you may enjoy this delight without going overboard because oysters are surprisingly inexpensive on the market. Hence, there is no excuse for you to skip enjoying these delectable bivalves today.

If you are looking for a good and affordable snack while exploring the market, you should grab a borek. It is Turkish in origin and renowned for both its crunchy skin and savoury inside, which includes meat, cheese and spinach. They are great in the winter when you need something to keep you warm.

The market offers both coffee and chocolate beverages for you to start your day. It is appropriate for all ages since adults love the rich, sweet aroma of coffee while children savour the sweetness of chocolate.

QVM Visiting Tips

Some stalls have the card payment options, however, some of the stall (eg. fruits) does not have card payment option. Therefore, it is a good idea to bring some cash to the market.

QVM Gallery

State Library Victoria

Second attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

State Library Victoria in Melbourne is a remarkable gem that shouldn’t be missed. Anybody who like literature, history, and art need to visit this well-known site. It is highly recommended to put this attraction into your1 Day Itinerary Trip in Melbourne City.

The State Library of Victoria is a visual feast with its beautiful architecture and wonderful interior. Even better, admission is completely free!

Whether you are interested in exploring the library’s vast collection of books, awe-inspiring galleries and exhibitions or attending one of the numerous events and seminars, State Library Victoria has something for you.

State Library Victoria Opening Hours

The library is open from 10am to 6pm daily.

State Library Victoria Admission Fees

The library is open to the public and there is no entry cost.

State Library Victoria Location

The library is located at Swanston Street. From Queen Victoria Market, it takes around 15 minutes to get here. Alternatively, you may board a free tram (19, 57 or 59), go 1 stop to Melbourne Central Station, and then walk 5 minutes to the library.

State Library Victoria Duration Recommendation

We recommend spending 30 minutes to an hour if you simply want to snap photographs and roam about the library.

Melbourne Town Hall

Third attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

The Melbourne Town Hall is one of the incredible architectural history built in 1887. It has a magnificent design and a huge clock tower. Currently, it is used for multipurpose purposes such as exhibitions and celebrations of events.

You should include Melbourne Town Hall in your 1 day trip itinerary to Melbourne City as it is easily accessible by the free tram. The beauty of this magnificient building will definetely remain in your memory.

Melbourne Town Hall Opening Hour

It is feasible to snap photos of the exterior at any time of the day. However, the interior of the town hall opens from 8am to 8pm weekdays.

Melbourne Town Hall Admission Fees

No admission fees required if you just take photos around at the Melbourne Town Hall.

Melbourne Town Hall Location

Melbourne Town Hall located at Swanston street. It is a 10 minutes walk from State Victoria Library.

Melbourne Town Hall Duration Recommendation

It takes about 10 – 30 minutes unless there is event in the Melbourne Town Hall that you wish to explore.

Melbourne Town Hall Visiting Tips

Take photos and take photos as the building is super pretty both inside and out. Also, there is a magnificent pipe organ in the Town Hall. It is known as one of the largest pipe organ in the Australia.

Melbourne Federation Square

Forth attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

Melbourne Federation Square is a breathtaking architectural marvel that has become an iconic landmark of the city. 

It is a vibrant public space that hosts a variety of events, festivals, and performances throughout the year especially you must visit during the Christmas season. During Christmas, it has performances, ice skating venue, feature animation on the building and many more. It is a popular spot for filming and taking pictures during the festivals.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), the National Gallery of Victoria Australia (NGV), and the Koorie Heritage Trust are all nearby Federation Square. They are located inside the Federation Square building. Below will describe more information on these places.

Melbourne Fed Square Opening Hours

Federation Square public area is open 24 hours.

Melbourne Fed Square Admission Fees

Free to roam around the public area in Federation Square.

Melbourne Fed Square Location

Melbourne Federation Square is located at the Swanston Street and Flinders Street. You can reach here by using the free tram 1, 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72, 35, 70 and 75.

If you are coming from Melbourne Town Hall, you may either walk for 6 minutes or take the free trams 1 or 3/3a or 16 or 64 or 67 from City Square/ Swanston Street station to Federation Square/ Swanston Street station.

Melbourne Fed Square Nearby Attraction Recommendation

Australian centre for the moving image (acmi).

If you love film, TV, video games and art, you must visit ACMI where it is a museum dedicated to screen culture . You may enjoy the past, present, and future stories through its moving image. Within the ACMI, there are video games that make use of AR technology.

If you are travelling with children, it is best to include this attraction into your 1 day itinerary trip to Melbourne City. This allows your child to learn the history of Australia through this moving images.

ACMI is open from 10am to 5pm and the general admission is free (exclude some exhibition is paid entry). 

National Gallery of Victoria Australia (NGV)

If you enjoy art, you must go to the NGV which focuses solely on Australian art . Each month offers a different type of gallery, therefore remember to check their calendar before you plan your trip.

NGV is open from 10 am to 5 pm and admission is free (except for some exhibitions where admission is charged).

Koorie Heritage Trust

If you are interested in understanding the Aboriginal cultural heritage of Australia , you must visit this Koorie Heritage Trust.

It safeguards the cultural legacy of the Aboriginal people in south-eastern Australia. It collects and preserves Koorie oral histories, connects Stolen Generations to their roots, expands the collection of Koorie art and artefacts, and showcases new and emerging artists through exhibition programs and cultural education activities.

Koorie Heritage Trust is open from 10 am to 5 pm and admission is free.

St Paul's Cathedral

If you are interested in architecture and religion, you must visit St. Paul’s Cathedral . It is famous for its stunning architecture, tall building with high spires as well as its exquisite stained glass windows. It is a wonderful spot to both relax and pray.

It is free to enter and open from 10 am to 5 pm.

Flinder Street Station

Flinders Street is one of the main train station in Melbourne. It has a stunning look of a yellow facade and an arched entrance. 

It is a fantastic location for stunning photographs.

Melbourne Fed Square Nearby Attraction Gallery

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Fifth attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

The Sealife aquarium in Melbourne is an awe-inspiring attraction that is a must-visit in this “1 day itinerary trip in Melbourne City with free tram” for anyone who loves marine life.

This aquarium, which has over 10,000 animals, is a paradise for both youngsters and adults. Sharks, rays, turtles, penguins, and a wide range of other marine animals may be found in the Sealife aquarium.

Visitors may interact fully with these amazing species at the aquarium thanks to its immersive experience.

The 360-degree Oceanarium, which offers visitors an unparalleled perspective of the beautiful species that call the ocean home, is without a doubt the aquarium’s most impressive feature.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Opening Hours

Sea Life Melbourne opens 10am to 5pm every weekdays (excluding Friday and public holiday) whereas it opens 9.30am to 5pm every Friday and weekends as well as public holidays.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Admission Fees

Adults over the age of 16 cost $47, while children aged 3 to 15 cost $32. Children under the age of 2 are admitted free of charge.

You can buy the admission ticket on the spot, however, it may sold out during the peak season. Hence, it is highly recommended to buy a ticket 24 hours before.

You can buy the tickets from their official website or from Klook. Generally, Klook sell cheaper than their official website.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Location

The SEA LIFE Melbourne is located at the King Street.

If you are coming from Federation Square, take the free trams 35, 70, or 75 to Melbourne Aquarium/Flinders Street.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Duration Recommendation

It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully experience the aquarium.

Melbourne Docklands

Sixth attraction in the 1 day itinerary trip in melbourne city.

Docklands Melbourne features a beautiful waterfront promenade as well as numerous parks and gardens.

You may enjoy a beautiful walk along the Docklands pier, which leads to Melbourne Waterfront City. When you arrive at Waterfront City, you stop to take pictures before continuing on foot to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel. 

Sadly, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel has permanetly closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, you can still take photos with the ferris wheel.

Also, if you arrive early, you will pass through DFO, a factory outlet for numerous brands with many discounted goods.

Melbourne Docklands Opening Hours

Melbourne Docklands is a public area, therefore it opens 24 hours.

Melbourne Docklands Admission Fees

It is free to visit Docklands.

Melbourne Docklands Location

Melbourne Docklands of course is located at Docklands. It is highly recommended to stop at Central Pier/ Harbour Esp Tram station.

If you are coming from SEA LIFE, you can take the free tram 35, 70 or 75.

I hope that this planned 1 Day Itinerary Trip in Melbourne City with free tram will make it easier for you to organise your cost-effective journey to Melbourne by taking advantage of complimentary tram to visit these 6 remarkable tourist attractions.

If you are looking for a hotel to stay in the city with budget cost and near free tram station, I suggest you to choose Hilton Hotel Melbourne. It will perfectly match with this 1 Day Itinerary Trip in Melbourne City with free tram.

Hilton Hotel Melbourne is right beside the tram stop Queen Street/ Bourke Street. It is a free tram zone with tram 86 and 96.  Hilton Hotel also located 5 minutes walk to the Melbourne City Shopping District, which improve your shopping experience.

Disclosure: All opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read full privacy policy here.

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

1. Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Springs Lane, Fingal, Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Melbourne, Australia

November 2, 2020 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

What to Do in Melbourne for a Perfect 24 Hour Visit

Often seen in the shadow of its more famous sister Sydney, Melbourne is well worth a visit on your next trip to Australia. Though sometimes slightly colder, Melbourne is a great place to spend a day, since it is bursting with art, culture, shopping, fine dining, sport, museums, and a plethora of unique attractions.

Getting to Melbourne

Visitors can jump on a flight to Melbourne from over 100 cities worldwide, or from any major city in Australia, and it is also a popular stop on a road trip down the coast from Brisbane or Sydney. Recognized worldwide for its facilities (let’s be honest, it’s mainly the coffee) and awarded the title of most liveable city seven years in a row, make sure you come check out this cool city for yourself.

One Day in Melbourne Itinerary

1. flinders st station.

Start your one day in Melbourne at the city’s most iconic landscape, and the meeting point for Melbournians city-wide: Flinders St Station. Built in 1854 (though the current building was added later, around 1905), the heritage listed, art-nouveau building is the proverbial crown of Melbourne’s CBD. From here, you can see straight down busy Swanston Street, or look across the other side to see the modern, funky Federation Square. If you’re a railway junkie, walk along the 2,322-foot long platform – the longest in Australia, and fourth-largest in the world. Check out the stained glass windows, soaring ceilings, picturesque flower stalls and original tiles, before heading outside under the famous clocks (a very common Melbournian meeting place), and across the road to the iconic ‘Young and Jacksons’ Pub.

2. Young & Jacksons + a Cup of Melbourne Coffee

Another historic icon, Young & Jacksons has been serving Melbournians since 1861, and has several bars and dining rooms, including a scrumptious rooftop cider bar – perfect in summer. If you don’t fancy a pint, still pop in and say hi to the pubs most famous resident ‘Chloe’, a nude painting all the way from Paris that hangs in the appropriately named ‘Chloe’s Brasserie’. Causing delight to many throughout the years (as well as some pursed lips and shaken heads), Chloe has graced the walls of the pub since 1909, and has become a true Melbourne icon.

If it’s too early for a stiff drink, head around the corner to Degraves St and take part in a quintessential Melbourne ritual by grabbing a delicious, Melbournian alleyway coffee; some of the best coffee in the world (we think so, anyway). Choose from a range of cafes and grab a brew to go, or stop for a minute at one of the crowded, streetside cafe tables and do some people watching.

Once you’re all refreshed, head to the nearest tram stop and jump on one of the brown, retro looking ‘City Circle’ trams (number 35).

3. City Circle Tram

The City Circle trams are a fantastic, free way to see all the city highlights. Running on a loop that covers all the main city attractions, riding a tram is a quintessential Melbourne experience, and a great way to see all the sights without being stressed in traffic.

Running from Flinders St Station, down past the Aquarium to the Docklands, then back up through the city, passing the Treasury and Parliament House, the beautiful Princess Theatre, the amazing Carlton Exibition Centre and gardens and the famous Queen Vic Market.

4. Melbourne’s Best Shopping and Treats

Follow the tram route, either on-board or on foot (Melbourne is a great city for walking) down Swanston St to the famous Collins St, known for its upmarket boutiques, fancy hotels and swish restaurants. Do some window shopping (or real shopping, if you can afford it), then continue on past the stately Melbourne Town Hall (which has a pretty cool museum, if you want to check it out) and the famous Manchester Unity Building, another art-deco throwback. Don’t miss a visit to the gorgeous, Victorian-style Block Arcade, grab a scone and a cup of tea in the stunning Hopetoun Tea Rooms, and a choccy frog from Haighs on your way through.

Stop off at Bourke Street, a (slightly more affordable) pedestrian-only shopping strip, and visit the landmark department stores Myer and David Jones (treat yourself and head downstairs to the food court). Make sure you check out the old General Post Office (now a luxe H&M store).

If you’re keen to get into some more Melbourne shopping, head into Myer and the adjoining Emporium Shopping Centre, and get a birds-eye view of the streets below from the connecting bridges. The centre goes all the way through to Melbourne Central, another major shopping hub. Check out the famous ‘shot tower’, a 50-metre high original tower used for creating bullets, now part of the precinct. On the hour, the Melbourne Central Clock plays ‘Waltzing Matilda’, the unofficial Australian anthem, while a flock of native birds (mechanical ones, don’t worry) flap along.

Lastly, if you prefer your shopping in the open air, only a few blocks away lies the Queen Victoria Market, a Melbourne institution since 1878. Grab some delicious fresh produce, hand-made souvenirs, clothing, or local food (don’t forget to grab one of the hot jam donuts). There are tours that run that showcase some of the history and highlights of the market, or you can just have a wander through the many stalls. Throughout the year, the Wednesday Night Market also runs, a way to sample local restaurants, grab a drink, have a dance, or browse some more unique stalls.

5. Carlton Gardens/Museum/Chinatown

Once you’re all shopped out, take a breather at the nearby Carlton Gardens, home to the heritage-listed (yes, another one) Carlton Exhibition Centre, one of the oldest pavilions left in the world. Enjoy the grounds, full of fountains and flowers, or venture over and check out the adjacent Melbourne Museum, full of interesting artifacts and history of the city (and great for kids).

Head back into the city down Spring St to the Treasury and next-door Parliament House, both of which offer tours, before heading down Little Bourke St into Chinatown, one of the oldest Chinatown districts in the world. Stop at one of the many dumpling houses for a cheap, delicious lunch, or if you want something a bit fancier stop in at ‘Flower Drum’, an award-winning Chinese restaurant – though get in early, it is often booked out months in advance.

6. Federation Square/Botanic Gardens/Shrine of Remembrance

Once you’re full and rested, head back down Swanston St to Federation Square, opposite Flinders St Station. Before you get there, head past the gorgeous St Paul’s Cathedral on the corner and have a sneak up the famous ‘Hosier Lane’, next to the beautiful art-deco Forum Theatre. This alley is known worldwide for its amazing street art, which changes all the time, and visitors can often see artists at work in the alleys.

Then head across to ‘Fed Square’, as the locals call it, and visit one of the many on-site museums or galleries; enjoy the outdoor ambience and people-watching and grab an ice cream from the shop run by robots before wandering across the bridge, over the Yarra River, towards the Botanic Gardens.

The Botanic Gardens are huge, but well worth exploring if you have time. With around 8,500 plant species represented across a variety of unique garden areas, as well as lakes, waterfalls, heritage cottages and even a cafe (you’re never far from a cafe in Melbourne), you can make your visit a bit quicker by booking a garden tour at the Visitors Centre.

The Shrine of Remembrance, located at the far end of the gardens, is a war memorial originally built to acknowledge those who served in World War I, though it now honors those who have served in any war. Built in a classical style, the building lines up perfectly with Swanston St, and can be seen from the other end of the city. There is a crypt below, with the names of lost soldiers, and a museum with permanent and traveling exhibitions.

7. NGV: Experience Melbourne’s Premier Art Museum

Across the busy St Kilda Rd, opposite the Shrine, stands the NGV, or National Gallery of Victoria . With an outstanding, world-class art collection, as well as a host of international exhibitions, the NGV is well worth a visit, if you can fit it into your one day in Melbourne itinerary.

Check out the free permanent exhibits, ranging from ancient indigenous art through the masters, right up to Andy Warhol and post-modernism, or visit one of the seasonal visiting collections. The gallery itself is a work of art, with gorgeous skylights and stained glass, and an interactive, lush haven outside called ‘the Backyard’.

Don’t forget to check out the famous ‘water wall’ at the entrance; stand as close as you can and look up, you will feel like you’re flying (I learnt this as a kid, and still do it every time I visit).

Second Option: MCG

If you prefer cricket to Caravaggio, or footy to photography, head instead to the famous MCG, or the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The undisputed home of Melbourne Sport, the ‘G, as locals like to call it, has stood since 1853, was the birthplace of Test cricket and has hosted both the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

With a capacity to hold up to 100,000 people, the ‘G is sacred to many Melbournians’ hearts. Take a tour of the extensive arena and grounds, check out the Australian Sports Museum or, if you get the chance, catch a game – there’s nothing else like it.

8. Arts Centre/Southbank/Crown Casino

Between the NGV and Flinders St Station stands a spire, which lights up at night. This denotes the location of the Melbourne Arts Centre, home to the ballet as well as a variety of musical productions, concerts and shows. Visitors can tour the arts centre, or catch a show – there is always something great on. In summer, there are often pop-up gardens and food trucks out front, and every Sunday the Arts Centre Market winds its way from the Arts Centre to the NGV.

If the Ballet doesn’t excite you, keep wandering past the arts centre, towards Flinders St Station, head down the steps and boom – you’re on the river. The Yarra River runs all the through Victoria down from the Great Dividing Range, and is the reason Melbourne is the city it is today.

Commandeer a ‘picnic boat’ yourself and explore the river up close, or simply wander along ‘Southbank’ (creatively named, as it is the Southern bank of the river) which has plenty of shops, casual and fine dining, bars, office towers and – most notably – the Crown Casino. The extensive casino complex comprises various gambling rooms, sports bars, restaurants, theatre shows, a cinema, luxury shopping and more – you could spend the entire day exploring. Have a pint, or just wander through the area, which also hosts weekend markets, street buskers and entertainment, and a nightly ‘fire show’ outside (with, apparently, the world’s largest fireballs) on the hour after dark. Grab some gelato, sit along the water and enjoy the free show.

Another great spot to stop on Southbank, if gambling isn’t your thing, is the Eureka Tower, which is just under 1,000 feet high and provides a marvelous way to get a unique view of Melbourne. Jump on the fastest lifts in the Southern Hemisphere up to the 88th floor, where you can see if you are brave enough to experience ‘The Edge’, a glass cube that juts from the building over the streets below.

Grab a drink at the quirky Ponyfish Island Bar, which is built literally on the river, around a pier pylon, or rub shoulders with celebs at the acclaimed ‘Rockpool Bar & Grill’. Finally, cross the river to Abory Bar, where you can enjoy waterfront drinks and casual (though delicious) food, and you’re right back where you started, at Flinders St Station.

Enjoy Your Day in Melbourne!

Melbourne is a great city, and ideally we would love you to spend more than 24 hours in Melbourne, exploring the city and its surroundings. But if you don’t have the time, you can still maximize your time in Melbourne with this action-packed itinerary and you’ll no doubt find yourself needing that coffee (and some good shoes); luckily Melbourne’s is world-class!

By Jenna Rank, a travel writer who calls Melbourne home.

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

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A day trip in Melbourne – a locals one day itinerary!

We currently reside in Melbourne, an Australian city that is full to the brim of culture, hospitality and liveability! While we enjoy traversing the globe and exploring diverse cultures and experiences, we absolutely love living in Melbourne! The past few weeks has seen Ky return back from Indonesia, and Tess head off to Tanzania (volunteer work trip). This has left Ky with a little extra time, which is the perfect excuse to head into Melbourne and explore. This blog covers Ky’s day trip into the city from a locals point of few, highlighting some of the things we love to do in this great city! Read on to see a great one day itinerary for Melbourne!

A locals ‘one day itinerary’ for Melbourne

Stop 1: coffee.

What better way to start your day trip in the city than with a cup of coffee! Melbourne is the coffee capital of the world.. think this is an overstatement? Try a coffee from every cafe on the list below then get back to us. Still not convinced? Got to a random cafe within 10kms of the CBD, actually, make that 20kms of the CBD.. you’ll struggle to find a bad cup of coffee in Melbourne!

Ky started his day trip with a coffee at INI Studios on the northern fridge of the CBD for an excellent coffee. Grab an sensational coffee from one of the amazing cafe’s on the list below all serving up some of the best coffee in Melbourne CBD:

• Slater Street Bench (& Bench Coffee Co.)
• INI Studios
• Halcyon Days
• 7 Seeds Carlton
• ACoffee Collingwood
• Little Rogue
• Brother Baba Budan
• The Kettle Black
• Chez Mademoiselle
• Monk Bodhi Dharma
• Wall Coffee
• And so many more!

Stop 2: Explore the Laneways

Melbourne is home to some charming laneways, many with different feels and aesthetics. While it’s not quite your ‘European laneways’, Melbourne’s alleyways have a unique culture and feel about them. Enjoy the street art, the little shops and cafe’s that you’ll find hidden, and take lots of pictures! We highlight recommend the underrated Guildford Lane , a vibrant alleyway shrouded with plants. See below for a list of further laneways you should definitely check out on your Melbourne day trip !

• Guildford Lane – Cute lane, lined with plants and trees.
• Hardware Lane – The closest to Europe you’ll get in Melbourne and home to our favourite restaurant, Miznon.
• Drewery Lane – a cute alley home to a great wine bar (HER) and cafe (Little Rogue).
• Rankins Lane – Another leafy lane that is home to a great bagel cafe (Manchester Press).
• See street art at Hozier Lane, AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place .
• Degraves Street & Centre Place – Distinct Euro-feel and lots of cute cafes and shops.
• Royal & Block Arcades – A little touristy but definitely worth a look.

See our Melbourne Laneways guide here!

Stop 3: Lunch

You’re in luck, it’s time for lunch in one of the great foodie cities! There’s so many good options, but Ky chose a bite to eat at popular (but hidden) Thai street food institution Soi38 . Located inside a carpark (yes, you read that right), this little restaurant has tasty lunch specials and is well worth a look.

Not your cup of tea? Perhaps try our favourite restaurant in the city, Miznon, for some great pita pockets. There’s so many good options to choose from, see our favourite restaurants of Melbourne below!

Our favourite restaurants in Melbourne

Stop 4: Coffee #2 (& more laneways)

You know the drill.. one coffee isn’t enough. Head to the list above (or discover another gem yourself), grab another coffee, rest your legs, and people watch. Your day trip the coffee mecca wouldn’t be complete without at least 2 coffees for the day!

Stop 5: Shopping

Melbourne is home to many great areas to browse and do a little shopping. While the chaos of the large malls and stores isn’t really our cup of tea, we enjoy the markets and boutique stores. Ky visited the CBD on Sunday, with the Arts Centre having a pop-up market running every Sunday. Other great markets include the St Kilda Foreshore market on Sundays, or the South Melbourne Market which runs every day. Many of the little alleyways (see above) will have boutique stores worth checking out, otherwise make your way to Emporium, QV, DFO or Melbourne Central for some proper retail therapy.

Stop 6: Royal Botanical Gardens

Time to step out of the city and explore some of the beautiful parks nearby. The Royal Botanical Gardens is located a short walk from the city and is definitely worth a visit. This was the next stop of Ky’s city day trip! If you want another good option, also consider Albert Park Lake, boasting one of the best views of the city skyline.

Stop 7: Beach for Sunset

What better way to finish the day than a sunset down the beach. Pick a point along the foreshore between Brighton and Port Melbourne, take a picnic, beverage, or buy some take-away dinner, relax, and enjoy the sunset. The popular Point Ormond is well known for sunset, but can get busy. We both often visit local beaches like South and Port Melbourne for sunset, or enjoy a walk/run between Elwood to St Kilda.

Want to do more in Melbourne?

See our detailed guide to our home-town city below! This covers off were we love to visit, our favourite parts of the city, great restaurants, coffee, shopping and more!

A detailed guide to Melbourne from people who live there!

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1 day in Melbourne — How to spend 24 hours in Melbourne & Explore the best of Melbourne in a day perfectly?

Melbourne is one of the two most developed cities in Australia. If Sydney is vibrant and modern, Melbourne has a more peaceful and classic beauty. There are a lot of extremely interesting Melbourne attractions waiting for you to explore and at the end of the journey you will understand why this place has always been named in the list of “World’s most livable cities” for many years.

• Melbourne travel blog — The fullest Melbourne city guide for a budget trip to Melbourne for the first-timers
• Melbourne itinerary 7 days — How to spend 7 days in Melbourne for a budget trip?
• Melbourne 3 day itinerary — How to spend 3 days in Melbourne & What to do in Melbourne for 3 days?
• Where should I go in Sydney? — 23 most famous, must go & best places to visit in Sydney
• Sydney must eat — Top 9 must eat food in Sydney you definitely have to try

So, how to discover all the best of Melbourne in a day? Let’s check it out our one day trip in Melbourne blog on how to spend 1 day in Melbourne Australia (24 hours in Melbourne, one day trip Melbourne, Melbourne in a day) through detail suggested one day in Melbourne itinerary (Melbourne 1 day itinerary) with Living Nomads below.

When traveling to Australia, a far from place is located in the southern hemisphere, visitors often go to famous places such as the Sydney Opera House or Bondi Beach, but skip a peaceful place like Melbourne. Just need one day, we’ll take you around the city center to see Melbourne’s contrariety. You will still see a sparkling, vibrant, modern Melbourne – one of the most developed cities in the world, but beside prosperity, somewhere you will see Melbourne still retains its ancient, serene features.

1 day in Melbourne — Explore Melbourne’s nostalgic attractions

Start exploring Melbourne city center by take the City Circle tram. City Circle is a typical Melbourne tram system that still retains the old design, recognizing the exterior as red, yellow and green. The interior of the train will remind you of previous century trains.

In the City Circle tram system in Melbourne, the most famous is the number 35 route. This is a completely free route, primarily serving tourists, taking visitors through major shopping and sightseeing locations such as the Old Treasury Building, the National Assembly Building and the Princess Theater … and you also hear the historical explanation of each place passing by. Visiting Melbourne by City Circle tram is a great way to explore the city and saving money, right?

You can refer to the route of the City Circle Tram 35 here . You can pick up City Circle Tram at stops on your trip, the start and end points of the City Circle Tram 35 stop at Docklands.

State Library Victoria

The first stop is one of the most spectacular and beautiful libraries you will see. To get to the National Library of Victoria, take the City Circle Tram and get off at La Trobe Street, and the National Library of Victoria is located on the corner of La Trobe and Russel road.

This is Victoria’s oldest and largest public library founded in 1854. The National Library of Victoria has an ancient European architecture and is home to a massive treasure of over 2 million books and many newspapers, maps, documents, artworks.

One of the most special places at State Library Victoria is magnificent La Trobe reading room with a majestic dome. You will really be overwhelmed by the beauty here. But remember go gentle and laugh softly to keep silent in the library.

In addition, at the State Library Victoria you can also admire the artworks and exhibitions by visiting galleries: Keith Murdoch Gallery, Cowen Gallery and Dome Gallery.

Spending an entire morning at the State Library Victoria is definitely an experience that is not wasteful on your trip.

Melbourne Museum

Address: Corner Russell & La Trobe Sts, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia Phone: 03 8664 7000 Hours: Monday to Thursday 10am–9pm / Friday to Sunday 10am–6pm Url: https://www.slv.vic.gov.au

Flinders Street Railway Station

The next stop on the 1 day in Melbourne itinerary is Flinders Street Railway Station on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets. If you take the City Circle tram around the city center, Flinders Street Railway Station is in among your stops, and this is a place can not to be missed.

Flinders Street railway station is Australia’s oldest station opened in 1854. It was also the busiest railway station in the Southern hemisphere. Inside the train station, you will admire the old architecture with typical dome in Melbourne.

Flinders Street railway station is famous for the phrase “meet me under the clocks”. The origin of this sentence is because there is a row of old clockwork in front of the station, where Melbourne people (Melburnian) often meet.

Address: Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

St Paul’s Cathedral

Located just opposite Flinders Street Station, St Paul’s Church is a British cathedral bearing the ancient European architecture. Visiting Melbourne, you should not miss St Paul’s Church at all.

It is not difficult for you to recognize St Paul’s Cathedral from afar by the magnificent high rise towers located in the heart of Melbourne. Standing across the street, you can admire this whole building and hear the bell ringing from inside. Stepping through the large doors to get inside, the splendor of St Paul’s Cathedral opens up in front of you, the Gothic-style church with its tall dome makes you feel very small.

You will be impressed with almost every detail here from wall tiles, mosaics, multicolored glass mosaics paintings. Actually you will be caught up in this stunning architecture. We were completely stunned by the magnificent beauty here.

Address: Flinders Ln & Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia Hours: Mon-Fri: 8.30am – 6pm / Sat: 9am – 4pm / Sun: 7:30am – 7:30pm / Public Holidays: 11am – 3pm Url: https://cathedral.org.au/

Mixed with ancient features is a modern, liberal of Melbourne

From Flinders Street, you can wandering around the winding streets of the city center such as Flinders Street, Collins Street or Bourke Street to get better see Melbourne’s life. You will get lost in the mazes, which are mosaic-paved walkways, nicely decorated arches, both sides are beautiful, luxurious shops.

Here, interspersed with ancient buildings, you will also encounter many luxury shopping centers with all kinds of high-end brands in the world or gleaming office buildings with busy officers in neat, stylish clothes.

Continued reading…

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1-Day Melbourne Itinerary

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• Melbourne in 1 day
• 2-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 4-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 5-Day Melbourne Itinerary

Table of contents

1-day itinerary, sebastian inlet state park.

El Ambia Cubano Cuban Restaurant

Andretti Thrill Park

Where to eat, ember & oak, la crepe de france.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Popular road trips from Melbourne

What's the weather like in melbourne.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Melbourne for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Melbourne in January
• Weather in Melbourne in February
• Weather in Melbourne in March
• Weather in Melbourne in April
• Weather in Melbourne in May
• Weather in Melbourne in June
• Weather in Melbourne in July
• Weather in Melbourne in August
• Weather in Melbourne in September
• Weather in Melbourne in October
• Weather in Melbourne in November
• Weather in Melbourne in December

All road trips from Melbourne

• Melbourne to Orlando drive
• Melbourne to New York City drive
• Melbourne to St. Augustine drive
• Melbourne to Miami Beach drive
• Melbourne to Tampa drive
• Melbourne to Washington DC drive
• Melbourne to New Orleans drive
• Melbourne to Savannah drive
• Melbourne to Sarasota drive
• Melbourne to Chicago drive
• Melbourne to Atlanta drive
• Melbourne to Charleston drive
• Melbourne to Nashville drive
• Melbourne to Daytona Beach drive
• Melbourne to Toronto drive
• Melbourne to Miami drive
• Melbourne to Boston drive
• Melbourne to Gatlinburg drive
• Melbourne to West Palm Beach drive
• Melbourne to Fort Myers drive
• Melbourne to Naples drive
• Melbourne to Myrtle Beach drive
• Melbourne to Philadelphia drive
• Melbourne to Niagara Falls drive
• Melbourne to Jacksonville drive
• Melbourne to San Antonio drive
• Melbourne to Memphis drive
• Melbourne to Montreal drive
• Melbourne to Baltimore drive
• Melbourne to Sunrise drive

Explore nearby places

• Indialantic
• Melbourne Beach
• West Melbourne
• Indian Harbour Beach
• Satellite Beach
• Palm Shores
• Grant-Valkaria
• Cocoa Beach
• Cape Canaveral
• Port Canaveral
• Kenansville
• Port Saint John
• Indian River Shores
• Saint Cloud
• Fort Pierce
• Indian Lake Estates

All related maps of Melbourne

• Map of Melbourne
• Map of Indialantic
• Map of Melbourne Beach
• Map of West Melbourne
• Map of Indian Harbour Beach
• Map of Malabar
• Map of Satellite Beach
• Map of Palm Bay
• Map of Suntree
• Map of Palm Shores
• Map of Grant-Valkaria
• Map of Viera
• Map of Micco
• Map of Cocoa Beach
• Map of Rockledge
• Map of Sebastian
• Map of Cape Canaveral
• Map of Cocoa
• Map of Fellsmere
• Map of Port Canaveral
• Map of Wabasso
• Map of Kenansville
• Map of Port Saint John
• Map of Indian River Shores
• Map of Vero Beach
• Map of Titusville
• Map of Christmas
• Map of Saint Cloud
• Map of Mims
• Map of Fort Pierce
• Map of Indian Lake Estates

Melbourne throughout the year

• Melbourne in January
• Melbourne in February
• Melbourne in March
• Melbourne in April
• Melbourne in May
• Melbourne in June
• Melbourne in July
• Melbourne in August
• Melbourne in September
• Melbourne in October
• Melbourne in November
• Melbourne in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Melbourne?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 1-Day Fort Pierce Itinerary
• 1-Day Cocoa Beach Itinerary
• 1-Day Titusville Itinerary
• 1-Day Sebastian Itinerary
• 1-Day Cape Canaveral Itinerary
• 1-Day Christmas Itinerary

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1 Day Tours

Single day tours in melbourne.

Looking for a day tour to keep you and your family busy? Here are a few of the day tours to consider while visiting Melbourne and surrounding areas.

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 1 day (12 hours)
• User All ages

Great Ocean Road Small Group Day Tour

Come and explore Victoria’s Surf Coast and more must-see destinations near Melbourne. Enjoy a 12 Apostles tour, visit picturesque cities and townships along this world-famous coastline, and soak up the history of sites like the Loch Ard Gorge.

• Likely to sell out

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Tour

The best way to explore one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. On this Phillip Island day tour, meet and view local wildlife at a multi-award-winning conservation park before reaching the highlight of the tour – the nightly Penguin Parade.

Grampians National Park Small Group Day Tour

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grampians on a captivating day tour, where you’ll witness rugged mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rock formations, while immersing yourself in the rich indigenous culture and abundant wildlife of this iconic Australian destination.

Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour

Our Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour is your opportunity to enjoy one of Australia’s most spectacular views at the perfect time of day. The scenic journey in our bus along the Great Ocean Road is a highlight in itself and the perfect prelude to the main event.

Wilson’s Promontory National Park Tour

This little-known, picturesque national park is often referred to as Australia’s best-kept secret. Check out spots like Squeaky Beach, one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand. Wriggle your toes in the squeaky quartz sand as you stroll by the wild seas.

• Hour Glass 8 hours

Yarra Valley Gourmet Tour

While the Yarra Valley is a world-renowned wine growing region, wine is only half the story of this gourmet wonderland and our tour provides a fine blend of the very best of the region’s wines and other gourmet produce.

Visit Melbourne with the ultimate Melbourne Trip Planner

Things to do in Melbourne Melbourne Travel Guide Melbourne Trip Planner

Melbourne is a top destination for travelers in Australia who want to experience something different and maybe even more refined than their barbecuing beach holiday to the coast. While many destinations in Australia are known for their pristine beaches and blistering hot weather, Melbourne has a character that's hard to match. Whether you're a culture vulture or someone who appreciates the finer things in life, you'll fall head over heels in love with this unforgettable destination. Boasting a rich cultural history as well as world-famous events and exhibitions, it doesn't get any better than this. Reveling in vibrant laneways, trendy neighborhoods, and a sophisticated foodie scene; Melbourne offers something for everyone to explore! This Melbourne trip planner will help you sort out your Melbourne itineraries, what to pack, the best time to visit Melbourne, and a lot more.

Best Time To Visit Melbourne

Melbourne is a great city to visit but not everyone can decide when to go. If you are visiting for the first time, you might want to know when is the best time to visit. This city experiences hot and sunny summers from December through February, which is when most tourists travel there. But it can get quite stuffy and stifling in the summer months. The best times for a visit are March through May and September through November, which tends to be favorable conditions in terms of temperature with fewer crowds across the board!

Read more about the best time to visit Melbourne .

Melbourne Itineraries

Depending on how long you're in Melbourne for - whether it's just a day, 3 or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Melbourne itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

If this is your first time traveling to Melbourne, we know you'd love some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

Melbourne 1-Day Itinerary

Royal Botanic Garden

Shrine of Remembrance

National Gallery of Victoria

SEA Life Melbourne

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne Zoo

Eureka/Melbourne Skydeck

Yarra River Cruise

IceBar Melbourne

Melbourne 3-day itinerary.

Flinders Street Station

Royal Botanic Gardens

Mornington Peninsula

Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market

Packing For Melbourne

With a huge range of things to do, there's something for everyone in Melbourne. But how do you plan your Melbourne adventure? A lot of people do not know what they should pack and what they need to see. Melbourne is a place that has no limits when it comes to fashion. You will need some warm and fuzzy coats for those cool nights which might come about after the sun has gone down, but you should also bring your swimsuits in case you have time for a quick swimming session as well! Don’t forget to pack your boots, overcoat, and a few dainty winter accessories to compete with Melbourne’s moody weather.

Travel Packing Checklist

Where to stay in melbourne.

Melbourne is a city that has so much to offer. There are many different neighborhoods in Melbourne, each with its unique characteristics. If you are looking for a city that has a lot of green space, St. Kilda is the place for you. St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods in Melbourne. It is a township located right near the ocean and boasts plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, trendy bars, and picturesque cafes. There are also many stunning old buildings, famous theaters (such as the Palais Theatre), and festivals that happen throughout the year like Viva! If you want to explore the arts, Fitzroy is the place for you. If you want to explore the nightlife, Southbank is the place for you. Melbourne has a lot to offer and all of these neighborhoods are worth exploring.

Accommodation on a Budget

Melbourne is a great city to visit, but it can be expensive to stay in Melbourne for a long period. There are budget-friendly accommodations with included breakfast and access to kitchens. Some of the cheap hotels in Melbourne are Oaks On Collins, Brady Hotels Central Melbourne, Atlantis Hotel Melbourne, YHA Melbourne Central, and The Victoria Hotel.

Melbourne is a city that has a lot to offer. Whether you are looking for some late-night food or want to go out and see some live music, Melbourne has it all. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Melbourne has gorgeous cafes and bars on every street. You’ll be greeted by the kindest, most open-minded people you’ve ever met; a melting pot of multiculturalism just like Australia itself. The Toff In Town, Bar Ampere, Loop Project Space & Bar, Cabinet Bar, Crown Melbourne, and Queen Victoria Night Markets are some of the notable names where you will get the experience the amazing nightlife of Melbourne.

Shopping Hub

Melbourne is a bustling city with so many things to do and see. Shopping is also one of the things that many people enjoy doing in Melbourne. There are so many unique shops and a wide variety of items to choose from. It's easy to get lost in the crowd, but it's also easy to have a good time. Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market, Chadstone Shopping Center, Melbourne Emporium, Melbourne Central, Brunswick Street, and Sydney Road are some places to shop till you drop!

Kiss of Luxury

Melbourne has a lot of great restaurants, but it can be hard to decide where to go. In Melbourne, you can have the best of both worlds because there are many options for every budget. The best part about dining in Melbourne is that there are so many different kinds of food. There are restaurants with American, Italian, and Thai food, and more. The city also has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options like Cutler & Co, MoVida, Attica, Rockpool Bar & Grill, Dinner by Heston, and The Carlton Wine Room.

Getting Around In Melbourne

Melbourne is a city with many attractions, which is why it can be difficult to get around. You can always rely on the public transport system and hop on a tram, train, or bus. To get to your destination quicker, you can purchase a Myki card, which will allow you to travel around the city using public transport. If you don't want to carry around a wallet or purse, you can also purchase a Myki card that has a built-in chip that you can swipe when you board the tram or train. To start your ride, tap your card on the reader when you board your chosen form of transport. Do make sure you tap off so that your fare is calculated correctly and you don't get charged any extra money.

Melbourne Travel Tips & Hacks

Melbourne is a beautiful city with a lot of things to do. You can walk around the city, visit some of the amazing museums, or get out and explore the surrounding areas. There are many things to do in Melbourne that you might not know about, so here are some Melbourne travel tricks and hacks.

• If you are visiting Melbourne for the first time, try to plan your trip during a weekday so that you can avoid the busy weekend crowds.
• If you need to travel around the city by public transport, make sure you have a map and know where you are going.
• When it comes to food, Melbourne is a great place to try out new cuisines. Try something new and find your favorite!
• Make sure you bring some extra cash with you because Melbourne has a lot of great shopping opportunities.
• Melbourne is a very bike-friendly city so if you don't have your bike, rent one for the day!
• Use your Myki card while boarding public transport. One can easily recharge it on the go and it’s convenient too.
• Pack light and be ready for four seasons as the weather in Melbourne can be extremely moody.
• Embark on your journey early to get free train rides.
• If you’re headed to South Australia or a place known as an epicurean capital, then you should look forward to finding some free food. If you time it just right, you could end up getting a bucket load of goodies from brands looking to advertise their products in hopes of reaching the people most likely to enjoy them.
• As a traveler, always keep with you at all times your passport and credit or debit cards. Also, remember to take note of the hotel or hostel's official address and contact details so that you can find your way back later.

5 Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that is popular with tourists, but many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. Yarra Valley is famous for its wine production and it is also home to many wineries. It is a beautiful drive through the countryside and you will be able to experience the beautiful scenery and nature. There are plenty of wineries to visit along the way, so make sure you have your camera ready to capture all the amazing sights. One of the best day trips from Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is a scenic drive that will take you through the twelve Apostles, limestone caves, and the Twelve Apostles Lighthouse. These are some of the places that you should include in your Melbourne itinerary.

Check out our list of 5 best day trips from Melbourne :

FAQs: Melbourne Trip Planner

Is melbourne worth visiting.

Melbourne is a bustling city with so much to offer. From the amazing food, shopping, and nightlife, to the beautiful architecture and stunning beaches, Melbourne is a city that anyone would be lucky to visit.

What is the  best time to visit Melbourne?

The best time to visit Melbourne is from November to February when the weather is cooler and the locals are out enjoying the outdoors.

What are the top things to do in Melbourne?

One can wander through Melbourne’s laneways, explore vibrant art and culture scenes, discover the city’s Aboriginal culture and embrace the eccentric nightlife of Melbourne. Plan your Melbourne itineraries judiciously before you pack your bags and set upon the journey!

What is the cheapest way to get around Melbourne?

The tram is the cheapest, most convenient, and most-popular mode of transportation in Melbourne.

What should you pack for Melbourne?

While packing for Melbourne, make sure you have a balance of warm and lightweight clothes in your bag. Sundresses or skirts, cotton trousers, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves while packing for Melbourne.

Which is the best place to stay in Melbourne?

St. Kilda is one of the adventurous neighborhoods and the best place to stay in Melbourne.

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Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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The Great Ocean Road from Melbourne - 1-Day Itinerary

Built between 1919 and 1932 by returned World War I soldiers, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world and an important tourist attraction in Australia. It was dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, making it the world’s largest war memorial.

Although the Great Ocean Road is best known for the limestone rock stacks in the ocean called “The Twelve Apostles”, it also has many other highlights along the route, including forests, waterfalls, lighthouses, beaches, and koalas. If you visit at the right time, you might even be able to spot whales!

During my visit to Melbourne, I had the opportunity to visit the famous route when my host offered to take me there.

Table of Contents

About the Great Ocean Road

Where is the great ocean road.

The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometre (151-mile) route located along the coast of Victoria in southeastern Australia. It starts in Torquay and continues westward to Allansford.

Most visitors to the Great Ocean Road travel from Melbourne , which is the nearest major city. It’s also possible to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road, although the journey is close to 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) and may take you a few days to complete.

A Brief History of the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road was first planned toward the end of World War I to connect isolated settlements on the coast and to become a transport link for tourism and the timber industry. At the time, the communities around the rugged southern coast were only accessible by sea or a rough bush track.

After receiving enough funds, the road was built by returned soldiers, and was officially opened on 26th November 1932 by Lieutenant Governor, Sir William Irvine.

Best Time to Visit the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is great to visit at any time of the year, with its mild winters (6°C – 15°C) and pleasantly warm summers (12°C – 26°C).

The summer months (December to February) are perfect if you plan to spend most of your time on the beach. But this is also the busiest time of the year, which means bigger crowds, traffic delays, and difficulty in finding parking spaces.

On the other hand, the winter season (June to August) can be chilly, but there will be less crowd and if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to see whales. Going on the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) is also a good idea to avoid crowds.

I visited in September and while it was quite cold and windy, I don’t think I encountered any more than one or two other tourists at each of the attractions.

How to Get to the Great Ocean Road

Traveling by car is the most popular way to visit the Great Ocean Road as it gives you the freedom to go at your own time and pace. Not only will you get to make as many stops and stay for as long as you want, you also get to time your visit to avoid crowds.

Car rental can be arranged in Melbourne city, at the airport, online, or through your hotel.

From Melbourne, take the Princess freeway (M1) toward Geelong, then take the Geelong bypass toward Torquay. Here, you will join the B100, which will later become the Great Ocean Road.

By Tour Bus

For those of you who can’t drive or prefer not to, there are many day tour options that can take you to the major highlights along the Great Ocean Road without the hassle of renting a car and driving the long route.

Check out these tours on Klook (if you’re not sure what Klook is, click here to read my review):

Things to See & Do on the Great Ocean Road (1 Day Itinerary)

The Great Ocean Road is more than just a long drive by the coast. There are plenty of things to see and do along the 243-kilometre stretch, both natural and man-made.

Here is a list of things you can see on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road:

1. The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch

First thing first! Gotta let ’em people know you’ve been to the Great Ocean Road, right? Therefore, a photo in front of the iconic wooden arch — right at the start of the road — is a must for any visitor.

But don’t be mistaken — the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is not a mere photo op. It was erected in honor of the 3,000 returned soldiers who built the road by hand between 1919 and 1932.

There’s space to park along the road and a carpark off to the left of the arch.

2. Split Point Lighthouse

If you had ever watched the Aussie 90s kids TV show “Round the Twist”, you’d probably remember this lighthouse. The exterior was portrayed as the family’s lighthouse home.

Also known as “The White Queen with the Red Cap”, the Split Point Lighthouse is clearly visible once you come around the bend in Aireys Inlet. It has been guarding the coast since 1891 and is still a fully functioning lighthouse, guiding ships through the treacherous Bass Strait.

For $10, visitors are allowed to go inside on a self-guided tour. Don’t forget to go to the lookout point to see spectacular views of the Fairhaven Surf Beach.

3. Erskine Falls

After Aireys Inlet, the next town you will arrive at is Lorne . You can stop here and explore the hipster cafes, eateries, and cute shops. We didn’t. Instead, we went straight to Esrkine Falls, about 10 minutes’ drive from town.

The 30-metre high falls are nestled within a lush conifer forest and require a short hike up some stairs to get to. When the water level is low, it’s possible to cross the river right up to the falls. But do wear proper shoes, as the path can be slippery and muddy. 

Watch out for snakes if you go in the summer.

4. Kennett River Koala Walk

It might sound unbelievable, but the Great Ocean Road is actually home to one of the largest koala populations in Australia. On top of that, it is also one of the best places to spot other Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, platypus, wombats, and echidna.

Although it’s possible to bump into these animals at any of the forests (and even on the road and coastline sometimes), you’d have the highest chance of an encounter at the Kennett River Koala Walk.

You can either take a slow drive along the road or pull over and walk. Just look up into the eucalyptus trees and you surely won’t be disappointed. We spotted more than 10 chunky koalas. If they’re not snoozing on the branches, they’d be munching on the leaves.

Do keep in mind that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and you’re the (uninvited) guest. Please keep a respectful distance. Do not make excessive noise or try to touch or feed them. These actions may stress them out and possibly threaten their survival.

If you still crave some animal interaction, you can pay a small fee to have a bunch of parrots eat out of your hands (or your head).

5. Triplet Falls

Arguably the nicest of all the waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road, the Triplet Falls feature wide pathways, tall fern trees, and unique cascading triplet falls falling side by side.

To get there, you need to hike for about 45 – 60 minutes through a fern forest. The trees were so tall and big that in the beginning, I thought they were oil palm trees that I was familiar with in my country.

The tall trees and ferns typically indicate a high-rainfall area, so make sure you wear sturdy hiking/walking shoes as the footpath can be slippery after rain.

6. The Twelve Apostles

For many people, the Twelve Apostles are their main or sole reason for visiting the Great Ocean Road.

The iconic rock stacks that protrude dramatically from the sea were formed more than 20 million years ago. Once part of the mainland, the limestone cliffs were eroded by the stormy Southern Ocean and gradually turned into caves, then arches, and finally collapsed, leaving the rock stacks behind, isolated from the shore.

Despite the name, there are now only 7 rock stacks still standing. Six of them are visible from the main viewing platform, while the seventh one is located several meters around the corner.

The rocks change color throughout the day. The best times for pictures are during sunrise and sunset, but most other photographers might have the same idea, so you probably won’t get the whole place to yourself. 

However, it’s worth noting that the place is the most crowded in the afternoon when the tour buses arrive. We arrived after sunset, and there was no one else around. Our photos turned out to be quite dark but the rock stacks were still visible.

There’s a boardwalk that takes you along the best viewpoints of the Apostles. It’s about five minute’s walk away from the car park.

7. Lookout Points Along the Way

That was all that we had time for on our day trip to the Great Ocean Road. After the Twelve Apostles, we made our way back to Melbourne.

Even if you don’t have time to do the entire stretch, doing just a portion of the Great Ocean Road is still worth it. You’ll be guaranteed great views all the way, with many viewpoints to stop at for pictures.

Other Highlights on the Great Ocean Road

If you have more than one day, here are some other things you can see on the Great Ocean Road:

1. Beauchamp Falls

We had passed the Beauchamp Falls but had to skip them because they would take a long time to get to (about 1.5 hours’ steep hike from the car park). The 20-metre falls are hidden by a thick forest of ferns, mountain ash, and myrtle beech.

2. Loch Ard Gorge

A few minutes’ drive from the Twelve Apostles, you’ll find the Loch Ard Gorge, a popular stop with epic views and an interesting survival story of two teenagers who survived a shipwreck in 1878.

One of them was barely conscious at the gorge’s mouth before being rescued by the other. They then took shelter in a cave near the gorge before the stronger of the two barehandedly climbed the crumbling 11-metre-high cliffs to seek help. The gorge was later named after the sunken ship.

3. Thunder Cave

The Thunder Cave — which can be accessed from the Loch Ard Gorge car park — is a narrow gorge and cave that the ocean smashes into and makes a great splash, as well as a thunderous sound, hence the name.

A short walk from the cave, you can find the beach where the Sherbrook River meets the Southern Ocean and you will be awed by the beauty and force of nature.

However, do take extreme caution and keep a safe distance from the edge, as freak waves as high as 4 metres can occur at random. There’s also a permanent rip tide here, which makes the beach extremely unsafe to swim or wade in.

4. Gibson Steps

The Gibson Steps are steps that lead down to the beach, giving you a different perspective of the Twelve Apostles. They were once hand-carved into the cliffs but have since been replaced by concrete steps with safety railings.

This is one of the few places in the area that allow proper beach access, but do check whether the steps are open before you go. They’re sometimes closed if there had been any fallen debris from the clifftop.

5. The Grotto

As the cliffs fell away, they left a window in the rock wall, through which you can see a beautiful sinkhole, with the ocean in the background. To get to the grotto, you need to go down steep stairs. 

6. The London Bridge

The Australian version of the London Bridge is actually an offshore limestone archway that was once connected to the mainland. As though fulfilling the prophecy of the London Bridge song, this archway did fall down in 1990, leaving two tourists trapped on the remaining arch and having to be rescued by a helicopter.

7. Bay of Islands

About 25 minutes away from the Twelve Apostles is the Bay of Islands, which is another collection of limestone rock stacks. Much like the Twelve Apostles, the bay also looks its best at sunset and has a boardwalk along the coastlines. The scenery offered here is almost similar to the one at the Apostles, but with a much smaller crowd.   

8. Bay of Martyrs

Although not as impressive as the nearby lookout points, the Bay of Martyrs is a great place for escaping the crowds. It is also one of the few places where you can walk down to the beach to enjoy a scenic stroll.

9. Hopetoun Falls

Another one of the many waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road, the 30-metre-high Hopetoun Falls are located in the Great Otway National Park, about 4 kilometres south of the Beauchamp Falls. You can either stay on the upper platform or get a closeup view by descending 200 stairs to the base of the falls.

10. Cape Otway Lighthouse

Dating back to 1848, this lighthouse is 15 minutes away from the Great Ocean Road and provides excellent views of the rugged cliffs. For $19.50, you get to tour the lighthouse, hear the story of tragic shipwrecks, discover Australia’s extraordinary secret war history from WWII, and understand the local indigenous culture.

You also have the option of staying overnight in the historic lightkeeper’s accommodation. The Lightkeeper’s Kitchen serves an array of tasty homemade fare, including freshly baked scones and locally roasted coffee.

Cape Otway Lighthouse is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11. Otway Rainforest Canopy

A short detour from the Great Ocean Road will take you to the Otway Rainforest Canopy, where you can take an hour-long 25-metre-high treetop walk amongst the giant myrtle beech, mountain ash, and blackwood trees.

You can also climb the spiral staircase to the canopy viewing platform, or — if that’s not adventurous enough for you — go ziplining.

12. Californian Redwood Forest

Not only does the Great Ocean Road have the London Bridge, it also has a Californian Redwood Forest! The 85-year old forest is a leftover from the logging industry that used to take place there in the 1930s. Now, the the trees have grown into 60-metre-tall giants.

Surrounded by dense ferns and local trees, the enchanting Otways Californian Redwood Forest is one of Victoria’s best kept secrets.

13. The Beaches on the Great Ocean Road

When in Australia, do as the Australians do and go to the beach — because why visit a country with 34,000 kilometres of coastline if you’re not going to go to the beach, right?

But be sure to check whether the beach is safe for swimming before you dip in. Stick to those with lifeguards, and swim between the red and yellow flags. Some of the safe beaches along the Great Ocean Road are:

• Torquay –  Calm waters, surrounded by pine trees. Patrolled by lifeguards in summer.
• Jan Juc – Fringed by dramatic cliffs. Patrolled in summer.
• Anglesea – Wide sandy beach and calm waters. Patrolled in Summer.
• Lorne – 2-kilometre-long sandy beach with many trendy cafes and bars.
• Apollo Bay – Crescent shaped beach with protected waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
• Port Campbell – The sheltered beach at the town of Port Campbell is one of the few in the area that are safe for swimming. 

How Long to Spend on the Great Ocean Road

If you’re short of time, it’s possible to visit the Great Ocean Road on a day trip like I did, and still manage to see quite a few places. Start early in the morning to get the most out of your trip.

However, do bear in mind that it will be a long drive. Unless you really love driving long-distance, you might want to go with someone with whom you can take turns driving. Or consider taking a tour so that you’ll be able to sit back the entire trip and enjoy the views.

To see all of these attractions without feeling rushed, it’s recommended to spend at least 3 days and 2 nights..

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

For those who are planning to spend more than one day on the Great Ocean Road, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. If you’re on a budget, you can even camp at the many free campsites and serviced holiday parks along the route, where you can pitch a tent or park your campervan.

Apollo Bay, Lorne, and Port Campbell are good locations to stay at. Apollo Bay is close to forests and waterfalls, Port Campbell is near to the Twelve Apostles and other coastal rock formations, while Lorne is a cool town on its own.

• Beachcomber Motel & Apartment (Apollo Bay) – Only 5 minutes’ walk from Apollo Bay Beach and the Apollo bay Golf Club, this motel features a beautiful garden with a sheltered barbecue area. All rooms are heated and come with a TV, a refrigerator, and a tea/coffee maker. Some also have a kitchenette, a fireplace and spa bath. From AUD 90 for a Double Motel Room.
• Sow & Piglets Guesthouse (Port Campbell) – This award-winning hostel is a 10-minute drive from the Twelve Apostles and a 3-minute walk from the beach. Available on site is a shared kitchen, a microbrewery and a bar. From AUD 35 for a bed in an 8-bed mixed dormitory room. 
• Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park (Lorne) – Perfect for budget travelers, this campsite provides shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a children’s playground, and a terrace with BBQ facilities. Located along the Erskine River, 400 metres from Loutit Bay Beach and 10 minutes’ walk from Lorne, it also offers access to the Erskine Falls. From AUD 52 for a spot at the campsite. Tent and cabin options (with private bathrooms) are also available. 
• Captains by the Bay (Apollo Bay)  – Less than 5 minutes’ walk from restaurants and shops, and 15 minutes’ walk from Apollo Bay Harbor. Each room comes with a private bathroom, LCD TV and DVD player. From AUD 140 for a Studio Room. 
• Port Campbell Parkview Motel & Apartments  (Port Campbell) – Located on a quiet street, 5 minutes’ walk away from the beach. Each apartment and studio features a balcony or patio with ocean or garden views, a fully-equipped kitchen/kitchenette, and a private bathroom. From AUD 140 for a suite. 

Mantra Lorne (Lorne) – Equipped with an indoor heated swimming pool, 4 tennis courts, a croquet lawn, a gym, a spa, and an 18-hole putting, this resort is the only property in Lorne that has direct access to the beach. From AUD 178 for a Classic Double/Twin Room, with breakfast.   

• Apollo Bay Guest House (Apollo Bay)  – Set in landscaped gardens with a sunny terrace only 200 metres from Apollo Bay Beach, this property features a lounge with a fireplace, antique furniture and French decor, From AUD 290 for a Queen Room with Ocean View, including breakfast.
• Southern Ocean Villas (Port Campbell) –  Located on the edge of the Port Campbell National Park, the Southern Ocean Villas offer private patios with garden views, a fully equipped kitchen, and a barbecue area with outdoor seating. From AUD 230 for a Standard 3-bedroom villa. 
• Pierview Apartments (Lorne) – A stylish apartment hotel with gorgeous ocean views, only a 10-minute walk from Lorne Beach. From AUD 340 for a 2-bedroom apartment.  

Additional Tips for Visiting the Great Ocean Road

• If you choose to self-drive, remember that Australia drives on the  left-hand side  of the road. There are road signs reminding tourists of this, which shows that it is a common problem.
• Most of the best attractions on the Great Ocean Road are in the Port Campbell National Park , so if you don’t have time to see everything, try to focus your time here.
• It is best to drive from east to west , starting in Torquay. This way, you’ll be driving on the ocean side of the road, which gives you better views and easier access to viewpoints.
• The most scenic leg of the route is between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
• When planning your itinerary, bear in mind that the journey may take longer than you expect because of the many curves on the road, as well as the many photo opportunities that you may want to stop for.
• Avoid driving after dark if you’re not used to the area. The roads are unlit and there’s always the danger of accidents involving wildlife.

• Australian authorities are very strict on the use of seat belts both for drivers and passengers. Child car seats are mandatory for children aged 7 years and below.
• Using your phone (including taking photos or videos) while driving is illegal, even at traffic lights or stop signs. If you need to use your phone, the law requires you to pull over.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes . You’ll be doing some walking to get to the waterfalls.
• Stay hydrated — bring enough drinking water, especially in the summer months.
• Don’t forget to put on sunscreen !

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Great Ocean Road

If you’re in Melbourne, a visit to the Great Ocean Road is something that shouldn’t be missed, especially for those who love road trips, beaches, forests, and dramatic cliff views. Many of the attractions along the Great Ocean Road are just a short drive from one another, so even if you’ve only got one day to spare, you’ll still see quite a lot.

Just remember to be respectful of the places you visit and their inhabitants, and above all, do not underestimate the power of nature. Stay safe!

Have you ever been to the Great Ocean Road? What was your favorite part about it? Share your experience in the comment section below.

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40 comments.

I suka you punya travel blog, its like really a travel journal and senang orang nak refer in case they want to visit next time. Keep it up sis!

Thank you so much, Zayani. Glad you enjoy my blog. Comments like yours keep me going. 🙂

baca your post i feel like rinduuu sangat nak travel. boleh bookmark post ni manatau after ni ada rezeki nak kesini

Ok, bookmark ya, Bae. And you’re not alone — I tulis post ni pun I sendiri rasa rindu nak travel. Haha.

I haven’t been to Melbourne yet. But it is always in my wish list. Insya’Allah I will travel there someday. Thank you for sharing this good post. Love your pictures.

Thank you, Fadima. I hope you’ll get to travel to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road someday. 🙂

I was in Melbourne to visit a friend who studied there, but she had never mentioned the Great Open Road during my visit. It was either she also did not know about it or it slipped her mind. Hehe

It must have slipped her mind, I’m sure, Rawlins. Or perhaps she’s just not into long drives. Haha. Coz I don’t think it would be possible for anyone living in Melbourne to not know about the Great Ocean Road. 😀

Wow, such a wonderful experience. Siap senarai tempat penginapan tu. Rasanya kalau ada yang nak ke sana mmg mudah refer kat entri u ni.

Thanks, Dik Bee. Nanti boleh la bookmark page ni atau share pada siapa-siapa yang bercadang untuk ke Australia selepas Covid berakhir nanti. 🙂

Huhuhu rindu pulak nak travel bila baca entry ni n tgok gambar2 semua ni. Hope dapatlah sis travel ke sana lagi

Ya, harap tak lama lagi dapatlah kita travel semula macam sediakala. 🙂

Great article with full information. Moga cepat covid ni reda so that leh teroka

Thank you, Min. Sama-samalah kita doakan, ya. 🙂

Wahhh, you make me wanna go there now! Tapi apakah dayakan! Will keep this as my reference! I have cousins stayed at Adelaide! Maybe can take few weeks off to enjoy the road trip when i visit them!

Sounds like a great plan, Kitkat! 😀

Banyaknye laut dan waterfalls yang boleh dikunjungi kat sini.bestnye dapat tengok koala

Ya, Marina. Memang banyak benda boleh buat sepanjang the Great Ocean Road Australia ni. Kalau pergi sehari je memang padat itinerari.

Umi mesti rindu giler nak travel kann… sebab dah biaa travel sana sini.. kalau baca balik semua posting mesti teruja.. i pun rindu sama huhuhu one day nak gak sampai Melbourne…

Memang la rindu, sis. Tapi nak buat macam mana kan, tunggu je la keadaan kembali pulih. Saya harap sis pun dapat sampai ke Melbourne juga satu hari nanti. 🙂

Aduihhh rindu betul nak jalan dekat sini. Memang tak puas. Sebab sepanjang perjalanan memang kita akan dihidangkang dengan pemandangan yang sangat cantik. Kalau boleh semua tempat menarik nak stop ambik gambar tapi sebab plan pergi balik hari jadi hanya cover tempat2 yang penting jer.

Ya, Saidila. Kalau nak betul-betul puas, memang kena spend at least 1 atau dua malam kat sini, baru la tak rushing dan dapat singgah semua tempat. Tapi kalau pergi balik hari pun tak bermaksud tak enjoy, kan. Sebab dari awal sampai akhir perjalanan ni memang viewnya cantik-cantik.

wow the koala bear so cute, in love betul… suka lah tengok view scenery di situ.. so best dapat kesana before the mco ahahhh cepatlah habis dunia kopig ni nak ke sana ke sini lol

Ya, Syafiera. Memang comel koala tu. Tapi kerja diorang tido je. Haha. Kalau di petting zoo, kita boleh pegang2. Kat sini tak boleh. Tapi perasaan dia lain sikit la bila dapat tengok sendiri haiwan-haiwan ni di habitat semulajadi mereka. 🙂

Everytime baca blog ummi mesti Yaya rindu nak travel. Rasa menyesal pulak tak banyak tangkap gambar masa travel dulu

Sama la kita, Yaya. Saya pun rasa menyesal dulu tak ambil gambar dan video banyak2. Kalau tak dah boleh buat banyak YouTube video. Haha. Sekarang ni tak tau bila boleh pergi lagi.

i have seen so many beautiful photos of the 12 Apostles, but never knew they were one of the stops along this epic drive. i have been wanting to see them in person one day, and now feel even more motivated to do this whole drive.

I hope you will, Shelley! The 12 Apostles are pretty impressive but there are also lots of other attractions you will see along the route. 😀

Wow so many great places to visit. I love the waterfall and the amount of wildlife that exists. Also, the temperatures are pretty perfect!

It was quite chilly for me in September, but then again I come from Southeast Asia. Other people might find Australian temperatures pretty mild. Haha. But you’re right, there are so many waterfalls and wildlife along that road. 😀

Great post, love all these details for driving the Great Ocean Road. I drove a portion of it a few years back, but I would really love to return and do more. Thanks for this inspo!

You’re welcome, Erin! Glad to have inspired you to go again. 😀

Wow! What a great road trip idea! I am definitely adding this to my travel list!

You definitely should, Mykalee. I hope you’ll get to experience the Great Ocean Road someday 🙂

I was surprised to learn that Otways Californian Redwood Forest is there! What a special find. Your blog post is comprehensive and has something for every kind of adventure in the area.

Thank you, Vanessa! I hope it will be useful when you’re planning a trip to the Great Ocean Road someday. 🙂

I love this great ocean road itinerary from Melbourne! We did a part coast part inland drive from Sydney to Melbourne but not this one. I found another London Bridge lookout in Point Nepean near Sorrento! I am bookmarking your itinerary for future plans. 🙂

Thank you, Jan! And thanks for sharing your experience as well. That sounds interesting — I must look for it if I ever make the journey from Sydney to Melbourne in the future. 😀

wah bestnya melbourne. khai takde rezeki lagi untuk ke luar dari asia lagi.mostly semua makin dekat2 je paling jauh pun tak silap taiwan hahaha . bila lah pkp ni akan berakhir

Ok la tu, Khai. Kat benua Asia ni saja dah terlalu banyak tempat menarik. Taiwan pun saya pernah pergi sekali saja, ke Taipei. 🙂

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The 8 BEST Day Trips from Melbourne (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 3, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

What to do on the Great Ocean Road

Best places to stay on the great ocean road, what to do in the yarra valley, best places to stay in the yarra valley, what to do in ballarat, best places to stay in ballarat, what to do in grampians national park, best places to stay in the grampians national park, what to do in wilsons promontory national park, best places to stay in wilsons promontory national park, what to do on the mornington peninsula, best places to stay on the mornington peninsula, what to do in mount buller, best places to stay in mount bueller, what to do on phillip island, best places to stay on phillip island, the best day trips from melbourne.

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

1. The Great Ocean Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Yarra Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can get a reliable, cheap rental car here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Ballarat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. The Grampians National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our latest guide on the best Grampians walks !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Wilsons Promontory National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Melbourne Day Trips – Mornington Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Mount Buller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the experts check out Slalom Gully or The FastOne .

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

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

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

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

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

Skyline Park is that happy medium between the two.

Summer is a whole different experience at Mount Buller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Phillip Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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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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1 Day Reverse Great Ocean Road Without the Crowds

• Trip Styles: Budget

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This day tour departs from Melbourne and takes you along the beautiful sights of the Great Ocean Road in reverse. Visit the stunning 12 Apostles, Lord Ard Gorge and Otway National Park, plus much much more. A beautiful day tour from Melbourne for everybody who wants to see these iconic places, and avoid the crowd.

Not certain about dates, or have a question? Ask here

Travel along one of the world’s most spectacular routes, the Great Ocean Road in reverse. Discover the breathtaking scenery in the ancient rainforest the Great Otway National Park , and visit the world-famous Twelve Apostles . Be exposed to dramatic coastlines, endless sights of beaches, ancient rainforests, and you might get to see some wildlife during the trip.

All these amazing must-see highlights combined in one tour which we operate in reverse to avoid the crowds will create unforgettable memories for adventurers of all ages!

Great Ocean Road Without the Crowds Reverse

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Our travellers often combine this trip with some of these trips:

1 Day Wilson's Promontory National Park Tour

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• This item: 1 Day Reverse Great Ocean Road Without the Crowds ( $ 150 )
• 1 Day Wilson's Promontory National Park Tour ( $ 135 )

Escape the city by travelling inland direct to the Shipwreck Coast via Colac. Take a journey and experience the Great Ocean Road reverse tour in the opposite direction to the masses, enabling you to escape the crowds and enjoy this famous & picturesque coastline in all its glory. read less

The Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour direction enables our passengers to experience the National Heritage-listed Great Ocean Road in all its glory in the reverse direction. By operating this tour in reverse, we avoid all the normal tourist masses that visit the 12 Apostles, giving our passengers a better opportunity to capture that picture-perfect photograph without the crowds. This Great Ocean Road reverse tour itinerary will visit all the same key destinations and highlights as our standard great ocean road tour, so rest assured you won’t miss a thing.

Escape the city by traveling inland direct to the Shipwreck Coast via Colac enjoying a complimentary morning tea along the way. Take a journey and experience the Great Ocean Road reverse tour in the opposite direction to the masses, enabling you to escape the crowds and enjoy this famous & picturesque coastline in all it’s glory. Our first major stop will be the breath-taking 12 Apostles and the extraordinary rock formations of Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell. Discover Mutton Bird Island & Razorback lookout, both offering amazing views. Then, enjoy a guided walk through Maits Rest or Melba Gully an ancient rainforest admiring some of the world’s tallest trees in the Great Otway National Park.

We continue our journey along this spectacular National Heritage listed road winding between hillsides, pristine beaches, stunning ocean views and dense rainforest. The Great Ocean Road is famously known as one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes which you will get to enjoy without all the crowds. Our local guides will try to seek out the iconic Australian koala, as this coastal region is heavily populated with these furry creatures hidden within the pockets of Eucalyptus forests.

Stopping next at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, one of the most photographed spots along this rugged coastline. This monument is a tribute to the World War One serviceman who built the Great Ocean Road stretching 243 kilometers and was finally completed in 1932. A great location to grab a group photo under the archway and share with friends on social media. From here, we sit back relax and enjoy the drive back into the dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne.

Driving Distance: 530km

• Experience the spectacular 12 Apostles shipwreck coast without the crowds
• Visit the pristine beach of Loch Ard Gorge in the glory of a mid-morning sun
• Search for Australian wildlife in its natural habitat
• Enjoy a guided walk through an ancient rainforest
• Drive along the famous National Heritage listed Great Ocean Road
• Eco-conscious and sustainable tour experience
• Essential things to pack
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Bottle of water
• Weather appropriate clothing
• Important Booking Info
• Please only bring a Small day pack with you on tour (Not suitable for Backpacks/Suitcase/Prams/Wheelchairs/Pushers)
• At Autopia Tours, we actively promote the protection of flora and fauna on all of our Tours. It is our duty to ensure there is minimal disturbance to our region and the species that call it home.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for the traditional owners should also be shown at all times.
• Part of our responsibility is educating guests on minimal impact practices and the importance of ensuring the safety of wildlife and the environmental sustainability of the destinations we visit.
• All our guides carry a current Level 2 First Aid certificate. Please report any accident or illness to your tour guide. We recommend anyone with an existing medical condition to carry their medication with them on tour and to notify their tour guide at the beginning of the tour.

Yes, this tour can cater for children of all ages.

We allow only small day packs on board. We have no storage facilities for large backpacks, suitcases or other items.

7:35am at the Immigration Museum – 400 Flinders St Cnr Market St Melbourne. Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup location, so as not to delay or miss your tour.

There are other pick up locations on request. Please see your tour details after confirmation.

We aim to be back in Melbourne city centre at approx 8:30pm.

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Score a Discounted Flight to Melbourne From One of These U.S. Hubs — When to Book

The sale must be booked by April 8 and requires a 7-day minimum stay.

It just got cheaper to visit the Australian city of Melbourne thanks to an Air New Zealand sale that has flights from the United States starting at less than $1,000.

The sale , which must be booked by April 8 and requires a 7-day minimum stay, is available from each of the airline’s U.S. gateways, including from Los Angeles and San Francisco on the West Coast, and New York on the East Coast, the carrier shared with Travel + Leisure . As part of the sale, travelers can book fares in economy, premium economy, or in the airline’s Business Premier cabin.

“We look forward [to] welcoming our North American customers onboard for travel through to Melbourne, where they can experience one of Australia’s most vibrant cities,” Ben Evers-Swindell, Air New Zealand’s general manager, America, told T+L. “With some of our most competitive fares to-date, travelers will experience our famous Kiwi hospitality and inflight service at an incredible value. With seven North American gateways to choose from, and award-winning onboard products like the Skycouch, where customers can experience a lie-flat sleep in economy, now is a great time to plan a trip Down Under.”

Fly from either Los Angeles or San Francisco to Melbourne with a stopover in Auckland starting at just $998, or fly to the city from Houston starting at just $1,198. Travelers can fly to Melbourne from New York City ( flying nonstop to Auckland first) starting at just $1,498.

The sale also includes flights from Chicago to Melbourne starting at just $1,298. However, Air New Zealand will pause direct service between Auckland and Chicago from March 31 to Oct. 25, according to the airline .

Travel is even cheaper when flying from Honolulu with flights to Melbourne starting at just $898.

The sale also includes deals on Air New Zealand’s premium cabins, like flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne starting at $2,898 in premium economy, and starting at $6,898 in Business Premier.

The sale comes as Air New Zealand (which was named the safest airline in the world for 2024) prepares to introduce its Economy Skynest , which will feature sleeping pods passengers can take turns using.

In addition to the Skynest, travelers looking for a bit more space on long-haul flights can stretch out by booking a Skycouch in economy, which allows passengers to turn three seats into a makeshift bed; or by booking the “Economy Stretch” cabin class , which features 39 percent more legroom.

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