10 Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Gabby Boucher

April 24th, 2024

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6 minute read

The best day trips from Melbourne can take you to some stunning places in Victoria, from the Great Ocean Road to Phillip Island and more. Melbourne is one of Australia's most famous cities. International and domestic travellers alike flock to this cosmopolitan city to check out its famous landmarks and museums, sip its incredible coffee, and get lost in the vibrant laneways. Melbourne has so much to offer, as does the natural beauty surrounding the city!

One of the best ways to connect with the history, culture, wildlife, and nature of Victoria is to take day trips from Melbourne. On a guided tour or an independent adventure, you can explore the best of the small towns, national parks, and coastal drives around the city. So here is our list of the 10 best day trips from Melbourne!

10 Best Day Trips From Melbourne

Whether you want to go wine tasting, hiking, camping, or wildlife spotting, here are some of the best day trips from Melbourne. We'll recommend the best guided tours where available so you can plan your Australian adventures with ease. Otherwise, Melbourne has great public transport and car rental services for getting around the area on day trips!

1. The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is definitely the most famous day trip from Melbourne, and it's one of Australia's most scenic drives. Stretching from Torquay to Allansford along Victoria's southern coastline, the Great Ocean Road winds through lush rainforests, rolling green hills, and rugged seaside vistas. 

The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are some of the coolest rock formations to see on the Great Ocean Road. Charming small towns like Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, and Peterborough are lovely places to stop for coffee and a meal before continuing on the stunning coastal drive. You could easily spend 2 days on the Great Ocean Road, but it's also a convenient day trip. 

2. Daylesford

Located in the Central Highlands of Victoria, Daylesford is a quaint country town known for its mineral hot springs. So if you're looking for a serene getaway from Melbourne where you can relax in natural springs, stroll through forests, and check out small-town charms, Daylesford is the place to be!

Daylesford is also just a beautiful place to admire, thanks to its location on the tranquil shores of Lake Daylesford and its proximity to the Great Dividing Range mountains. With water views and mountain views in addition to the forests and hot springs, this is the perfect place to switch off on a peaceful day trip. 

3. Yarra Valley

Those looking to explore the rural charm and world-class wines of Victoria's countryside can head to the Yarra Valley for a day trip! Located around 240km east of Melbourne on the Yarra River, this glorious part of Victoria is filled with boutique vineyards, farm-to-table eateries, and picturesque landscapes. Spend the day tasting local delights and touring wineries before heading back to Melbourne (make sure you don't drink and drive!).

4. Ballarat

Step back in time with a day trip to Ballarat, a city that thrived during the 19th-century gold rush in Australia. With old-school architecture and a living museum known as Sovereign Hill, this is the perfect destination for history lovers who want to connect with Victoria's past. Aside from checking out the heritage sites, you can also check out the Botanical Gardens and the Ballarat Wildlife Park in this adorable city. 

5. Phillip Island

One of the best day trips from Melbourne for animal lovers is Phillip Island. Famous for its nightly "Penguin Parade", Phillip Island is home to a beloved colony of tiny penguins that march across the beach every evening. Aside from the penguins, visitors can also look for seals, dolphins, and other marine life from the various coastal lookouts or on the ferry to the island.

The island is also home to a Koala Conservation Reserve where you can admire fuzzy koalas in the trees. Though it's most known for its penguins and wildlife, Phillip Island has gorgeous beaches and wilderness to explore as well! The best way to experience Phillip Island is on a guided day trip from Melbourne. 

Photo: Penguin Parade & Koala Highlights

6. Victorian High Country

About 3 hours northeast of Melbourne lies Victorian High Country, a region packed with dramatic mountain views, elegant wineries, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Those looking to embrace the charm of small mountain towns can hang out in Beechworth or Mansfield, and those looking to explore the nature of Victoria's High Country can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or rock climbing. Visit in winter to make the most of the snow and go skiing or snowboarding!

7. Geelong

As the state's second-largest city, Geelong is known for its thriving cultural scene and rich maritime heritage. Geelong is also one of the easiest day trips Melbourne since it's just 1 hour southwest of the city! Either rent a car or hop on a bus down to Geelong and spend the day exploring the local attractions and beaches. Highlights of the city include the Botanic Gardens, Performing Arts Centre, Geelong Waterfront, and countless museums, cafes, and shops. 

8. Grampians National Park

Nature lovers have to add Grampians National Park to their Victoria bucket list! Amidst the rugged landscapes of western Victoria lies the Grampians mountain range and nature reserve, which is full of hiking trails, campgrounds, unique rock formations, wildflowers, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. 

Grampians National Park is also known for its Aboriginal heritage, which you can engage with at Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre. The gorgeous views and hiking trails are seemingly endless, but notable natural landmarks in the park include the Balconies Lookouts and MacKenzie Falls. See all the highlights on a guided 2-day tour combined with the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne!

Photo: Grampians Eco Wilderness Escape

9. Bendigo

Bendigo is another gold-rush-era historic town that makes a popular day trip from Melbourne. Known for its grand Victorian architecture, wide tree-lined streets, and thriving arts scene, Bendigo is conveniently located just under 2 hours north of Melbourne. Spend the day admiring the local museums, markets, farms, and historic landmarks. There is also a world-class food and wine scene here, so consider indulging in some amazing meals in Bendigo!

10. Mornington Peninsula

Another option for hot springs and wine tastings in Victoria is the Mornington Peninsula, situated just east of Melbourne. This is another easy day trip from the city, accessible via guided tour, public transport, or quick drive. Drive along the hilly roads with sweeping harbour views, stopping at hot springs and rustic wineries along the way. Foodies can savour fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants or sample artisanal cheeses at local dairy farms. The Mornington Peninsula is a great place to connect with the local food, wine, and nature of Victoria. 

Check out our full list of experiences in Melbourne, or book an East Coast Itinerary that starts in Melbourne to make the most of your time in Australia!

You can also live chat with our travel experts if you need any advice for your trip.