Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Day trips from Melbourne

5 best day trips from Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the most vibrant cities to visit in Australia! However, Queensland has so much more to offer. From breathtaking coastal drives to picturesque rolling hills and charming vineyards, there’s no shortage of beauty here. Choose one of these day trips from Melbourne to make the most of your visit to Queensland.

1. Great Ocean Road Drive

Stretching along the southeastern coast of Australia, this iconic road covers approximately 243 kilometers of scenic beauty. The road winds its way through lush rainforests, charming seaside towns, towering cliffs, and stunning beaches, offering a visual feast at every turn. The most iconic landmark along the Great Ocean Drive would be the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks standing tall admist the shimmering waters.

MORE: Best Great Ocean Road Drive 1-Day Itinerary

THINGS TO DO

Enjoy the scenery as you drive along the coast and into the rainforest
Marvel at unique landmarks: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge
Kenneth River wild koala spotting

Getting there

The round trip from Melbourne to Port Campbell (Twelve Apostles) and back usually takes around 5-6 hours by car. It’s a bit of a long drive for a day trip, but there are plenty of stops along the way to explore and take breaks. If you prefer, you can opt to stay overnight at one of the charming towns on the route.

Alternatively, you can join a guided trip, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about the driving.

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2. Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley stands out as one of the world’s top wine-growing regions, celebrated for its exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz wines. Alongside its renowned wines, this enchanting area offers lush green hills and breathtaking landscapes, creating an ideal getaway. At every turn, you’ll find cellar doors inviting you to indulge in wine tastings and relish the finest local produce amidst the serene ambiance of vineyards and nature.

THINGS TO DO

Wine tasting at local wineries
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
Yarra Valley Dairy
Black Spur Drive
Cement Creek Redwood Forest

Getting there

Yarra Valley is conveniently situated only a 1-hour drive away from Melbourne. While exploring the region, getting around within Yarra Valley is most convenient with a car. (Do have a designated driver if you plan to go for wine tastings).

Another great option is to join a guided tour, which allows you to visit some of the famous cellar doors in Yarra Valley safely and without transportation worries.

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3. Grampians National Park

This sprawling park is a paradise for hikers, with its extensive network of trails leading to jaw-dropping viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rock formations. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush alleys and colourful wildflowers, keep an eye out for native wildlife, and be rewarded with breath-taking vistas from landmarks like The Pinnacle.

THINGS TO DO

Hike to the Pinnacle
Boroka’s Lookout, Reed Lookout

Getting there

The most convenient and flexible way to reach Grampians National Park is by driving. The national park is approximately 235 kilometers (about 146 miles) northwest of Melbourne, which is approximately a 3-hour drive. Take the Western Highway (M8) from Melbourne, and then follow the signs to Grampians National Park.

You can take a V Line train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Ararat (taking 2 hrs and 30min) , a regional town located near the park. From Ararat, you can then take the Warrnambool bus service to Halls Gap, the main town and gateway to Grampians National Park. However, lookouts and carparks to start on hikes are less accessible.

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4. Phillip Island

A visit to Phillip Island in Australia is a delightful experience that combines natural wonders and unique wildlife encounters. Located just off the coast of Melbourne, this island is famous for its adorable penguin parade. Watch as thousands of little penguins waddle ashore at sunset, creating an enchanting spectacle. Explore pristine beaches, encounter wildlife at the Philip Island Sanctuary , and enjoy thrilling activities like surfing and cycling.

THINGS TO DO

Penguin parade (evening 6pm)
Phillip Island Wildlife Park (free-roaming animals)
The Noobies Reserve

Getting there

BY CAR: The most straightforward way is to drive. Phillip Island is approximately 140 kilometers (about 87 miles) southeast of Melbourne, which is a 2-hour drive. Take the Monash Freeway (M1) from Melbourne’s city center and then follow the signs to Phillip Island.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: You can take a bus service (V-line) from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station that will take you to Cowes, the main town on Phillip Island. If you prefer a guided experience, several tour operators offer day trips to Phillip Island that include transportation.

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5. Dandenong Ranges

Located just a short drive from Melbourne, this beautiful region offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush forests, delightful gardens, and charming villages. Don’t miss the chance to experience the historic Puffing Billy steam train, where you can dangle your legs out of the train and feel the refreshing breeze as you pass through rainforests and over streams. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the stunning botanic gardens and admire breathtaking panoramas from lofty viewpoints like the SkyHigh Mount Dandenong.

THINGS TO DO

Ride on the Puffing Billy steam train
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong lookout

Getting there

The most convenient way is to drive. The Dandenong Ranges are around 35-40 minutes away from Melbourne’s city center.

You can also take a train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station to Belgrave Station, which is one of the main gateways to the Dandenong Ranges. From there, you can explore the area by foot, bus, or other local transportation. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation to the Dandenong Ranges.