Melbourne Australia Day Trips

Best Day Trips from Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is a fantastic base for exploring Victoria’s beautiful countryside and coastline. Here are some of the best day trip ideas to get you started:

1. The Great Ocean Road

  • Distance: 2 hours south-west of Melbourne
  • Highlights: Breathtaking coastal scenery, iconic London Bridge rock formation, and stunning beaches
  • Must-see attractions:
    • The Twelve Apostles limestone stacks
    • Loch Ard Gorge and its picturesque beach
    • London Bridge rock formation (be cautious not to get too close!)
  • Tips: Book a guided tour or rent a car with a good GPS system, as the road can be busy during peak season.

2. Mornington Peninsula

  • Distance: 1 hour south-east of Melbourne
  • Highlights: Beautiful beaches, scenic coastal walks, and gourmet food and wine
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Sorrento Beach and its picturesque pier
    • Portsea Back Beach (a great spot for surfing)
    • The Dromana Estate winery for a wine tasting experience
  • Tips: Take your time exploring the peninsula’s many beaches and coastal towns.

3. Yarra Valley

  • Distance: 1 hour north-east of Melbourne
  • Highlights: World-class wineries, gourmet food, and scenic valleys
  • Must-see attractions:
    • Healesville Sanctuary (a wildlife park with native Australian animals)
    • The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie for a sweet treat
    • Warramate Estate winery for a wine tasting experience
  • Tips: Book a guided tour or take your time exploring the region’s many wineries and gourmet food producers.

4. Phillip Island

  • Distance: 1 hour south-east of Melbourne
  • Highlights: Iconic surf beach, seal colony, and penguin parade
  • Must-see attractions:
    • The Nobbies rock formation (a great spot for watching the sunset)
    • Seal Rocks and its famous seal colony
    • The Phillip Island Penguin Parade (book tickets in advance to ensure a spot)
  • Tips: Take your time exploring the island’s many beaches and coastal towns.

5. The Dandenong Ranges

  • Distance: 1 hour east of Melbourne
  • Highlights: Scenic valleys, beautiful gardens, and historic villages
  • Must-see attractions:
    • The National Rhododendron Gardens (a stunning display of flowers)
    • The Alfred Nicholas Garden (a tranquil oasis with beautiful gardens)
    • Olinda Falls (a picturesque waterfall and picnic spot)
  • Tips: Take your time exploring the region’s many gardens, villages, and scenic valleys.

Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, outdoor adventures, or gourmet food and wine, there’s a day trip from Melbourne that’s sure to suit your interests. So why not get out there and explore?