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- Yarra River Cruises
- Phillip Island Tours
- Melbourne To Great Ocean Road Tours
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
- Melbourne Museum Tickets
- IceBar Melbourne Tickets
- Monopoly Dreams Tickets
- LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Tickets
- Ballarat Wildlife Park Tickets
- Melbourne To Yarra Valley Tours
- Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Tickets
- Healesville Sanctuary Tickets
- Moonlit Sanctuary Tickets
- Maru Koala and Animal Park
Day trips from Melbourne
- Unleash the charm of Victoria in one day with this full-day tour, from a vintage steam train ride to meeting Australia's unique wildlife!
- Immerse yourself in history aboard the Puffing Billy and relish stunning views of the Dandenong Ranges as the train chugs along its original 1900 track.
- Breathe in the tranquillity of Emerald Lake during a peaceful morning tea and later, encounter native wildlife at the Healesville Sanctuary.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie with our complimentary chocolate tastings, an indulgence for your senses!
- Unleash the charm of Victoria in one day with this full-day tour, from a vintage steam train ride to meeting Australia's unique wildlife!
- Immerse yourself in history aboard the Puffing Billy and relish stunning views of the Dandenong Ranges as the train chugs along its original 1900 track.
- Breathe in the tranquillity of Emerald Lake during a peaceful morning tea and later, encounter native wildlife at the Healesville Sanctuary.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie with our complimentary chocolate tastings, an indulgence for your senses!
Inclusions
- Full-day tour in AC bus
- Puffing Billy steam train ride
- Emerald Lake visit
- Healesville Sanctuary visit
- Yarra Valley Chocolaterie visit
- Chocolate tastings
- Morning tea
Exclusions
- Lunch
- Tip: Help preserve the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and Healesville Sanctuary by disposing of litter properly and staying on designated paths.
- This tour is pram/stroller accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION12 hours
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria)
Kick off your journey from Melbourne at 7:35 am. Cross the iconic Westgate Bridge and pass through picturesque seaside towns like Anglesea, Lorne, and Aireys Inlet before pausing for a quick refreshing morning tea break.
1
Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway
15 min
Stop at the National Heritage-listed Memorial Arch and snap a memorable photo beneath the Great Ocean Road sign before driving along one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes.
2
Apollo Bay
45 min
Stop at Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town nestled on the eastern side of Cape Otway. Explore its pristine beaches, waterfalls, and lush rainforests before grabbing lunch at your own expense.
3
Great Otway National Park
45 min
Head on to the Great Otway National Park with your guide to wander through the towering eucalyptus forests and ancient ferns. Spot some kookaburras and some kangaroos on your guided forest walk.
4
Twelve Apostles
45 min
Your next stop is the legendary 12 Apostles, where you can watch the dramatic limestone stacks rise from the turbulent Southern Ocean from the viewing platform. Admire the ever-changing hues of the sea and sky and unparalleled views of the Gibson Steps and the Gog and Magog formations.
5
Loch Ard Gorge
45 min
Move on to Loch Ard Gorge where you can listen to your guide recount the gripping survival story as you take in the striking coastal formations such as the Salt and Pepper Shakers and the mighty Razorback.
6
Colac
25 min
Make a brief stop in Colac for some quick dinner (at your own expense) before heading back to Melbourne.
7
END POINT
Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria)
Explore iconic landmarks, a guided forest walk, and wildlife with expert commentary and round-trip transfers.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Great for: Families, solo travelers, and locals looking to disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature without overnight or extra expenses.
- What you'll get: Live commentary by expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio translation app, guided rainforest walk, wildlife sightings, national park entry fees.
- Must-see sights: Apollo Bay, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Memorial Archway, Great Otway National Park.
- Don't miss: Keep an eye out for the short-beaked echidna and wild kangaroos on your guided forest walk in Great Otway National Park.
Explore iconic landmarks, a guided forest walk, and wildlife with expert commentary and round-trip transfers.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Great for: Families, solo travelers, and locals looking to disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature without overnight or extra expenses.
- What you'll get: Live commentary by expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio translation app, guided rainforest walk, wildlife sightings, national park entry fees.
- Must-see sights: Apollo Bay, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Memorial Archway, Great Otway National Park.
- Don't miss: Keep an eye out for the short-beaked echidna and wild kangaroos on your guided forest walk in Great Otway National Park.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Live commentary by expert driver guide
- Guided rainforest walk
- Wildlife sightings
- Morning tea and snacks
- National Park entry fees
- Audio translation app in 10 languages
- Tip: Try some honey malt, pepper berry, or avocado lime ice cream after your lunch at Dooley's Premium Ice Cream at Apollo Bay.
- Your safety comes first. So, visitors with mobility issues are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Guests under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult or guardian.
- The central meeting point for this tour will be the Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).
- The tour will stop at Apollo Bay for lunch and Colac for dinner (at own expense).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION12 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Melbourne
Start your journey with a smooth pickup from a selected point in Melbourne inner city.
1
Twelve Apostles
45 min
Reach the Twelve Apostles before everyone else. Capture these iconic limestone stacks sculpted by time—one of Australia’s most photographed landmarks.
2
Loch Ard Gorge
25 min
Stop at a stunning gorge, named after the 1878 shipwreck Loch Ard. You can see dramatic cliffs, explore a hidden beach, and hear fascinating stories about the site.
3
The Razorback
Next, you'll stop at the Razorback, one of the most dramatic formations on this rugged coastline, with jagged ridges and breathtaking views.
4
Great Otway National Park
30 min
Step into the Great Otway National Park for a guided walk through the ancient rainforests of Maits Rest or Melba Gully. Wander beneath some of the tallest mountain ash trees in the world and soak in the sounds of nature.
5
Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway
25 min
Sightseeing & Photography
6
END POINT
Melbourne
Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better views of the 12 Apostles, and a picnic lunch.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Great for: Travelers who value quieter stops and front-row views. And those who want to enjoy lunch on the go.
- What you'll get: Picnic lunch, live commentary by an expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio and text translation app in 10 languages.
- Must-see sights: Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mutton Bird Island, Razorback Lookout, Melba Gully, Great Otway National Park.
- Don't miss: Spotting the Otway Black Snail and swamp wallabies on your guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park.
Reverse the route. Fewer crowds, better views of the 12 Apostles, and a picnic lunch.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Great for: Travelers who value quieter stops and front-row views. And those who want to enjoy lunch on the go.
- What you'll get: Picnic lunch, live commentary by an expert driver guide, round-trip transfers from Melbourne, audio and text translation app in 10 languages.
- Must-see sights: Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mutton Bird Island, Razorback Lookout, Melba Gully, Great Otway National Park.
- Don't miss: Spotting the Otway Black Snail and swamp wallabies on your guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Great Ocean Road
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Live commentary by expert driver guide
- Picnic lunch
- Morning tea and snacks
- National Park entry fees
- Audio & text translation app in 10 languages
- Tip: See the Tom and Eva limestone rock formations, named after the two survivors of the 1878 shipwreck at Loch Ard Gorge.
- Your safety comes first. So, visitors with mobility issues are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Guests under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult or guardian
- As this tour includes a light lunch, please notify the operator of any dietary requirements or food allergies before departure.
- The tour will stop for a picnic-style lunch at Loch Ard Gorge or the 12 Apostles.
- The tour starts at 7.35am from select pick-up points in Melbourne inner city. If your hotel is not in the pick-up zone, you can reach the meeting point, Immigration Museum (Museums Victoria).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get picked on an AC vehicle from Melbourne for a full-day adventure that includes a scenic train ride and a visit to Philip Island to catch a sight of little penguins.
- Chugg-chugg-choo choo! All aboard the legendary Puffing Billy Steam Train for a scenic ride from Emerald to Belgravea and witness the glorious Dandenong Ranges.
- Next on the agenda: Emerald Lake. Think crystal-clear water, fresh mountain air, and a chance to stretch your legs on a leisurely stroll.
- Get your cameras ready for Nobbies Lookout for insane views of the coastline. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- The star attraction: the Phillip Island Penguin Parade! Just after dark, hundreds of the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing at sea.
- Get picked on an AC vehicle from Melbourne for a full-day adventure that includes a scenic train ride and a visit to Philip Island to catch a sight of little penguins.
- Chugg-chugg-choo choo! All aboard the legendary Puffing Billy Steam Train for a scenic ride from Emerald to Belgravea and witness the glorious Dandenong Ranges.
- Next on the agenda: Emerald Lake. Think crystal-clear water, fresh mountain air, and a chance to stretch your legs on a leisurely stroll.
- Get your cameras ready for Nobbies Lookout for insane views of the coastline. Don't miss Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- The star attraction: the Phillip Island Penguin Parade! Just after dark, hundreds of the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore after a day of fishing at sea.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour
- Transfers from Melbourne
- Ride on Puffing Billy steam train
- Access to Emerald Lake
- Entry to Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rocks Lookout
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 10am: Pick-up from Melbourne
- Emerald Lake
- Dandenong Ranges
- Puffing Billy steam train ride
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- 9-9:15pm: Drop-off to Melbourne
- Tip: If you plan to take photos, use a camera with a good low-light capability. Remember, flash photography is not allowed as it can distress the penguins.
- Bring along your sunscreen, hat, water bottle, camera, warm clothing, and umbrella.
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
From Melbourne: Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary & Phillip Island Tour with Penguin Parade
- Craving a taste of Aussie wildlife? This full-day guided adventure whisks you away from Melbourne to the colorful Brighton Beach and then the stunning Philip Island.
- Take a walk at the Moonlit Sanctuary and hand-feed a delightful cast of native Australian animals such as Kangaroos, koalas, emus, quolls, owls, and more!
- Make way to Phillip Island and witness the cutest parade of Little Penguins as they waddle the way back to their burrows.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus or Underground Viewing tickets for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Visit Point Grant and The Nobbies offering breathtaking views of Westernport Bay, including Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
- Craving a taste of Aussie wildlife? This full-day guided adventure whisks you away from Melbourne to the colorful Brighton Beach and then the stunning Philip Island.
- Take a walk at the Moonlit Sanctuary and hand-feed a delightful cast of native Australian animals such as Kangaroos, koalas, emus, quolls, owls, and more!
- Make way to Phillip Island and witness the cutest parade of Little Penguins as they waddle the way back to their burrows.
- Upgrade to Penguin Plus or Underground Viewing tickets for an up-close viewing experience - perfect for kids to learn about wildlife while watching the pint-sized penguins scurry about.
- Visit Point Grant and The Nobbies offering breathtaking views of Westernport Bay, including Seal Rocks – home to Australia's largest fur seal colony!
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Philip Island
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Live commentary
- Entry to Brighton Beach
- Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park
- Entry to Point Grant & The Nobbies
- Access to Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Penguin Parade from the general viewing platform
- Access to up-close viewing with penguin plus (optional)
- Access to the underground viewing platform (optional)
- Pick-up from Melbourne
- Brighton Beach's bathing boxes
- Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
- Phillip Island
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade
- Drop-off to Melbourne
- Tip: Do not miss out on the “Conservation in Action” wildlife show, which showcases several lesser-known Australian species in a series of interactive and engaging ranger presentations.
- No photography is allowed during the Penguin Parade.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
[Headout Exclusive Promo] From Melbourne: Half/Full-Day Phillip Island Guided Tour with Penguin Parade
- Imagine this: thousands of the world's tiniest penguins, waddling home across the beach. That's the magic you'll witness on a half-day or full-day Philip Island tour from Melbourne.
- Take a stroll along the boardwalk trails with an audio guide, and you might just spot a koala snoozing peacefully in a eucalyptus tree.
- Next stop? The Nobbies Center at Seal Rocks with spectacular clifftop views! Catch a sight of seals lounging and little penguins returning from their fishing expedition.
- Upgrade for a premium viewing experience of the penguin parade as they take on the surf before going back to their nests.
- Learn about the life cycle of penguins and the many initiatives taken to protect their dwindling numbers.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Imagine this: thousands of the world's tiniest penguins, waddling home across the beach. That's the magic you'll witness on a half-day or full-day Philip Island tour from Melbourne.
- Take a stroll along the boardwalk trails with an audio guide, and you might just spot a koala snoozing peacefully in a eucalyptus tree.
- Next stop? The Nobbies Center at Seal Rocks with spectacular clifftop views! Catch a sight of seals lounging and little penguins returning from their fishing expedition.
- Upgrade for a premium viewing experience of the penguin parade as they take on the surf before going back to their nests.
- Learn about the life cycle of penguins and the many initiatives taken to protect their dwindling numbers.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
Inclusions
- Half/full-day tour of Philip Island (based on the option selected)
- Round-trip transfers from Melbourne
- Expert driver guide
- Access to Penguin Parade general or premium viewing area (as per option selected)
- Entry to Koala Conservation Reserve
- Audio guide in 10 languages
- Tip: Sheltered alongside the Westernport Bay there is a township named after Cowes on the Isle of White. Beautiful seaside scenery, unique stores to peak into, and many nice restaurants to purchase food.
- This experience is not pram/stroller or wheelchair accessible.
- A low level of fitness is required to complete the walks on this tour itinerary.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
[Headout Exclusive Promo] From Melbourne: 1-Day Guided Tour of Grampians Eco Wilderness
- Get a thrilling experience of eco wilderness on a 1-day tour of Grampians Eco Wilderness from Melbourne tour with an expert guide by your side.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Grampians, a remarkable mountain range in Australia, and immerse yourself in its breathtaking vistas and rich Aboriginal legacy.
- Witness kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species in their native environment while venturing into Grampians National Park.
- Hike on a 160-step to the MacKenzie Falls and listen to narratives, artistry, and heritage of the local Aboriginal communities at Brambuk, the National Park & Cultural Center.
- Customize your adventure with upgrade options such as guided bush walks and access to an audio translation in 10 different languages for a personalized experience.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
- Get a thrilling experience of eco wilderness on a 1-day tour of Grampians Eco Wilderness from Melbourne tour with an expert guide by your side.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Grampians, a remarkable mountain range in Australia, and immerse yourself in its breathtaking vistas and rich Aboriginal legacy.
- Witness kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species in their native environment while venturing into Grampians National Park.
- Hike on a 160-step to the MacKenzie Falls and listen to narratives, artistry, and heritage of the local Aboriginal communities at Brambuk, the National Park & Cultural Center.
- Customize your adventure with upgrade options such as guided bush walks and access to an audio translation in 10 different languages for a personalized experience.
- Book this experience between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2025 and travel between Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2026 to make use of this exclusive $20 off promo.
Inclusions
- 1-day tour of Grampians Eco Wilderness
- Expert guides
- Park fees
- Hotel transfers
- Visit to Indigenous center
- Bush walks
- Audio and text translation app (available in 10 languages)
-Tip: The Grampians can experience rapid shifts in temperature and weather, so having versatile clothing options will ensure you're comfortable during your visit.
- The audio app is available in Cantonese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Spanish.
- Guests aged 5 and under are restricted from participating in this experience.
- A moderate level of fitness is required for this tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get an authentic representation of rural life in the 19th century at Churchill Island, the site of the first European agricultural pursuits in Victoria.
- See the vintage farming machinery that was once used in agricultural activities and take part in animal feeding, sheep shearing, and blacksmithing.
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and pose for a picture at a historic homestead, a symbol of early colonial architecture in Australia.
- Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade with a ticket upgrade.
- Admire stellar views of Western Port Bay and the coast and see migratory birds and waterfowl that inhabit the island's wetlands.
- Get an authentic representation of rural life in the 19th century at Churchill Island, the site of the first European agricultural pursuits in Victoria.
- See the vintage farming machinery that was once used in agricultural activities and take part in animal feeding, sheep shearing, and blacksmithing.
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and pose for a picture at a historic homestead, a symbol of early colonial architecture in Australia.
- Catch sight of little penguins returning home at dusk in the world-famous Penguin Parade with a ticket upgrade.
- Admire stellar views of Western Port Bay and the coast and see migratory birds and waterfowl that inhabit the island's wetlands.
Inclusions
- Entry to Churchill Island
- Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass (optional)
- Penguin plus viewing (optional)
- Underground viewing (optional)
- Tip: Join Billy the Border Collie in herding sheep! Start by scanning the QR code at the visitor's center, then follow the sheep signs throughout the historical precinct.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessibility.
- This experience is suitable for people with sensory needs.
- Visitors can bring assistance animals certified by a registered authority and must remain on designated paths and restrained by a harness or lead.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 29 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Experience a guided tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island, ending with nature's enchanting spectacle, the sunset penguin parade.
- Cruise in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi with a group of no more than 24 people for a personalized experience accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
- Savor the panoramic views of Nobbies Centre and Seal Rocks, where you can see Australia's largest fur seal colony of about 16,000 seals.
- Witness the smallest penguin species standing just 33 cm tall as they make their way across the beach to their burrows at sunset.
- Upgrade to the premium viewing for a better perspective of the penguins waddling to their burrows from the grandstand seats.
- Experience a guided tour from Melbourne to Phillip Island, ending with nature's enchanting spectacle, the sunset penguin parade.
- Cruise in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi with a group of no more than 24 people for a personalized experience accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
- Savor the panoramic views of Nobbies Centre and Seal Rocks, where you can see Australia's largest fur seal colony of about 16,000 seals.
- Witness the smallest penguin species standing just 33 cm tall as they make their way across the beach to their burrows at sunset.
- Upgrade to the premium viewing for a better perspective of the penguins waddling to their burrows from the grandstand seats.
Inclusions
- Philip Island tour
- Informative driver/guide
- AC transfers from Melbourne
- Standard viewing at penguin parade
- Entry fees and taxes
- Wi-Fi onboard
- Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for larger marine species at Seal Rocks and the Nobbies Centre. You might get lucky!
- Note that the following are not allowed during this experience: large bags, luggage, prams, and strollers.
- Photography is strictly forbidden after sunset at the Penguins Parade in order to protect the little penguins.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Hop aboard an all-day tour that has plenty of exciting activities in store for you, involving local foods and drinks along with round-trip hotel transfers.
- Head out to Balgownie Estate, a famous family-owned winery, and pair cheese with a variety of wines you sample.
- Rochford Winery awaits your presence for a scrumptious lunch with four meal options and a glass of Rochford’s premium wine.
- Explore the art of gin production and treat yourself to a delightful tasting paddle of G&Ts.
- Finally, make your way to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and try the many premium chocolates made in-house.
- Hop aboard an all-day tour that has plenty of exciting activities in store for you, involving local foods and drinks along with round-trip hotel transfers.
- Head out to Balgownie Estate, a famous family-owned winery, and pair cheese with a variety of wines you sample.
- Rochford Winery awaits your presence for a scrumptious lunch with four meal options and a glass of Rochford’s premium wine.
- Explore the art of gin production and treat yourself to a delightful tasting paddle of G&Ts.
- Finally, make your way to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and try the many premium chocolates made in-house.
Inclusions
- All transfers and commentary during the tour
- Expert guide
- All entry fees and taxes
- Gourmet food and wine tastings
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- Tastings at Balgownie Estate Wines
- Cheese tasting at Coldstream Dairy
- Lunch at Rochford Winery:
- Handcrafted chocolate tasting at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
- Gin and Tonic tasting paddle at Four Pillars Gin
Exclusions
- Any purchases that you make on your own other than what’s mentioned in the inclusions
- Personal souvenirs purchased at the gift shops
- Tip: Make sure to ask about wine pairings and get the perfect culinary experience.
- Balgownie Estate
- Coldstream Dairy
- Rochford Wines
- Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
More day trip options from Melbourne
Budj Bin heritage areas
UNESCO World Heritage Site | Aboriginal Culture | History buffs
313 km
- Explore Lake Condah on a walking tour led by an expert guide, delving into the region's rich Indigenous heritage.
- Visit the Kurtonitj Indigenous Protected Area and learn about traditional eel-trapping methods the Gunditjmara people use.
- Find unique natural formations, including lava tunnels, and spot koalas in their native habitat in the Budj Bim National Park.
Bellarine Peninsula
Seafood | Art & Culture
91 km
- Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy views of Corio Bay, and dine at top restaurants offering fresh, local cuisine and wines.
- Soak in art and culture at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre and Geelong Art Gallery, and enjoy live music at local venues.
- Experience the region’s historic wineries, and sample local wines, fresh seafood, cheeses, and berries along the scenic Bellarine Taste Trail.
- Play a round of golf on a beautiful coastal course with stunning views of the bay.
Daylesford
Art & Culture | Natural wonders
112 km
- Walk through Daylesford’s charming shops and galleries, including the Paradise Bookshop and the Convent Gallery.
- Visit Bromley and Co., the inspiring art studio of renowned artist David Bromley.
- Unwind with a reinvigorating soak in the mineral-rich waters of Hepburn Springs.
Marysville
Nature | Family-friendly
98 km
- Enjoy a jaw-dropping drive through one of Victoria’s most beautiful landscapes, the Black Spur.
- Visit in winter for toboggan runs and snow activities at the nearby alpine resort.
- Hike to Keppel Lookout for stunning panoramic views of Steavenson Falls.
Bendigo
History | Food | Art & Culture
153 km
- Explore Chinese culture and history in Bendigo's renowned Golden Dragon Museum.
- Go underground at the Central Deborah Gold Mine for a glimpse into the region's gold mining history.
- Try wheel throwing at the historic Bendigo Pottery studio.
- Experience the city’s sights aboard a vintage tram.
- Taste locally grown seasonal produce and enjoy local wines or beers.
- Witness the latest exhibitions at this celebrated Bendigo Art Gallery.
Ballarat
History | Nature | Family-friendly
115 km
- Dig for gold, descend into mines, and experience life in the 1850s at Sovereign Hill.
- Encounter over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, wombats, and koalas in Ballarat Wildlife Park.
- Step back into medieval times with a visit to this family-friendly Kryal Castle, complete with knights and wizards.
High Country
Alpine | Adventure
Approx. 250 km
- Ski, snowboard, or snowmobile at Mount Buller in winter.
- Mountain bike or horse ride across Mount Stirling’s trails.
- Drive up to Mount McKay for panoramic alpine views.
- Stroll through Beechworth, a preserved gold rush-era town.
Murray Sunset National Park (Pink Lakes)
Vivid Colours | Nature Trails | Camping
644 km from Melbourne | Best visited year-round
- Marvel at the Pink Lakes. See the lakes' colours change from pink to white, caused by red algae in the water.
- Hike the Lake Becking, Kline, or Lake Hardy Nature Walks, keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
- Spot kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and a variety of bird species, including red-rumped parrots and mallee ringnecks.
- Stay overnight at campgrounds near Lake Crosbie or Lake Becking and catch stunning sunset views over the lakes.
- Cycle along Pioneer Drive or visit in spring to see thousands of wildflowers in bloom.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Melbourne
What can I expect from a day trip that begins from Melbourne?
On a day trip from Melbourne, you can expect to experience a combination of scenic views, local attractions, and unique activities. Depending on your destination, your trip may include visits to cultural sites, wineries, national parks, or historical landmarks. Most day trips are designed to give you a well-rounded experience with ample time for exploration.
What are some nearby cities or attractions from Melbourne that I can cover in a day?
Popular day trips from Melbourne include the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley (for wine tasting), Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island, and the Grampians. If you're interested in history, Ballarat and Bendigo offer fascinating attractions such as Sovereign Hill and the Golden Dragon Museum.
How long will I spend at each destination on my day trip?
The amount of time you spend at each destination depends on your itinerary. For day trips with multiple stops, you can expect to spend around 2-3 hours at each location. If the trip includes fewer stops, you may have more time (up to 4-6 hours) to explore in-depth.
Is transport provided for day trips with multiple stops?
Yes, most day trips from Melbourne include transport between stops, whether by coach, private car, or train, ensuring a seamless experience. For example, a Great Ocean Road tour may provide transport to each viewpoint, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigation.
Is there any free time allocated for exploration or relaxation?
Many day trips include free time for personal exploration. If you're visiting a city like Ballarat, you may have time to stroll through local parks or shop at boutique stores. The amount of free time varies depending on the itinerary and the number of activities included.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of during the trip?
In most cases, the cost of your day trip will cover transport, entrance fees, and guided tours. However, there might be additional costs for meals, souvenirs, or optional activities like wine tastings or special excursions. It's always a good idea to check what’s included before booking.
What should I wear on a day trip from Melbourne?
For a comfortable and enjoyable day trip, wear clothing suited to the weather and your chosen activities. On outdoor trips (like visiting the Grampians or Mornington Peninsula), wear sturdy footwear for walking and bring layers to accommodate changing weather. If you're headed to a winery or a city, casual attire is typically fine, though you may want to dress a bit smarter for finer dining experiences.
Are day trips suitable for kids?
Yes, many day trips from Melbourne are family-friendly, offering activities that are suitable for all ages. For example, trips to Phillip Island include visits to the Penguin Parade, while Sovereign Hill in Ballarat is perfect for kids interested in history and adventure. Always check the trip details to make sure it’s appropriate for your children's ages and interests.
Are day trips from Melbourne pram and wheelchair accessible?
While most day trips from Melbourne are pram and wheelchair friendly, not all are due to uneven terrain and other factors. It’s advisable to check our carefully curated collection of experiences before booking your trip.