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You’ve come to Melbourne for the coffee, food, shopping and shows, which we’re all about, by the way. But if you’re in town for a little longer (maybe for an extended getaway or a work trip), a change of scenery may be exactly what you need.
There are dozens of day trips from Melbourne that promise their own unique slice of adventure. Visit charming villages steeped in history, explore sweeping ranges and sip your way through lush wineries.
These destinations lie just beyond the city limits, making them the perfect weekend escape while you’re visiting the city.
So, if you’re craving a cut of greater Melbourne’s excitement, keep reading to discover 12 of the best day trips from Melbourne to add to your itinerary
In This Blog
Yarra Valley: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Distance from Melbourne: 1-1.5 hours via car
Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a dream for food and wine lovers seeking easy Melbourne day trips. With rolling vineyards, boutique wineries and artisanal cheese shops, this region simply can’t be missed. Even if you’re not that much of a foodie, the Yarra Valley is worth a visit for its stunning scenery.
Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the valley, followed by a long, leisurely lunch at one of the many cellar doors. For non-drinkers, there’s the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, choc-a-block with locally sourced and sustainably made chocolate, ice cream, and Willy-Wonka-style treats.
The Mornington Peninsula: Beaches, Hot Springs and Vineyards
Distance from Melbourne: 1-1.5 hours via car
If coastal charm and relaxation are your vibe for day trips from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is a must. Spend the morning dipping into the Peninsula Hot Springs, followed by a winery tour through Red Hill.
Feeling adventurous? Tackle the Bushrangers Bay walking trail or go stand-up paddleboarding in Sorrento. The region’s beachside cafes and fresh seafood make for the perfect post-adventure feast.
Dandenong Ranges: Fairy-Tale Forests and The Puffing Billy
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour via car or 1.5-2 hours via public transport
Escape into the misty forests of the gorgeous Dandenong Ranges, where towering mountain ash trees and fern-lined paths create an enchanting retreat.
Hop aboard the historic Puffing Billy steam train for a nostalgic journey through lush greenery. (Hint: if you’re travelling with little adventurers, the Puffing Billy is the best kid-friendly attraction).
Afterwards, explore the charming town of Sassafras, known for its quaint tea rooms and boutique stores.
Healesville Sanctuary: Meet Australia’s Cutest Residents
Distance from Melbourne: 1-1.5 hours via car or just over 2 hours via public transport
For a wildlife experience without venturing too far, Healesville Sanctuary is a must-visit. This conservation park is home to koalas, kangaroos, wombats and the elusive platypus.
See stunning bird shows, meet sleepy koalas, say hello to kangaroos, and even upgrade your visit to include the too-cute-for-words Echidna Experience.
The zoo is also a major proponent for animal and wildlife conservation. There are guided tours available of the on-site Australian Wildlife Health Centre and even a special corporate team-building activity that races you around the zoo on a threatened species mission.
Phillip Island: Penguins, Koalas and Coastal Wonders
Distance from Melbourne: 1.5-2 hours via car
A one-day trip to Phillip Island is a classic Melbourne getaway. Depending on traffic, it’s usually an easy 90 minute drive from the city, but you’ll feel like you’ve escaped into a coastal oasis once you get there.
Home to idyllic beaches, captivating coastlines and a fabulous foodie scene, you might even want to spend more than a day here. Walk the coast trails that wind through rugged yet stunning oceanside cliffs before relaxing on the beach.
In the evening, witness the adorable Penguin Parade as little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. If you’re visiting during winter, you might even be lucky enough to see the whales migrating past.
By day, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, stroll along Nobbies boardwalk or relax on one of the island’s stunning beaches.
For the foodies, sweet tooths and hungry little ones, the Phillip Island Ice Cream Trail can’t be missed. Make your way around some (or all!) of the island’s best authentic Italian gelateria and ice creameries for an indulgent afternoon.
Geelong and The Bellarine Peninsula: Coastal Cool Meets Historic Charm
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour via car or 1 hour via public transport
Just an hour from Melbourne, Geelong blends beachy vibes with a rich history. Walk the waterfront, explore the National Wool Museum, or hop on the ferry to the Bellarine Peninsula for a winery lunch.
This region is also home to some of Victoria’s best breweries and distilleries, making it perfect for a laid-back day of tastings. Be sure to bring a few tasty treats back to your Rambla home base, too.
Some of the best things to do in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula include:
- Visiting the Geelong Gallery
- Exploring MoPA, the Museum or Play and Art
- Tastings at Little Creatures Brewery
- Relaxing on the Geelong Waterfront
- Sipping your way through Scotchman’s Hill Winery
- Taking the kids to the Bellarine Railway attraction
Macedon Ranges: Gardens, Wineries and Hanging Rock Mysteries
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour via car
With its rolling hills and cool-climate wineries, the Macedon Ranges offer a relaxing escape as one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne. Take a stroll through the stunning Forest Glade Gardens or enjoy a wine-tasting experience in Lancefield.
One of the best things to do in the Macedon Ranges is to hike to the top of Hanging Rock, made famous, of course, by the novel Picnic at Hanging Rock. Apart from the eerie vibes made infamous by the Australian classic novel, the views from Hanging Rock are otherworldly. Well worth a visit!
Werribee Open Range Zoo: Safari Adventures Close to the City
Distance from Melbourne: 40 minutes via car or 1.5 hours via public transport
Feel like you’ve stepped into the African savannah with a visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo. Hop aboard the free safari bus tour to see giraffes, zebras and rhinos roaming the vast plains – certainly not animals you’d typically see in Australia!
There are free animal talks everyday by the staff, special giraffe experiences (yes, these include feeding them, if you’re game), and an Early Morning Savannah Experience to get a glimpse of what goes on before the zoo opens.
For an extra thrill, book an overnight Slumber Safari for an unforgettable glamping experience amongst the wildlife.
Daylesford: Spas, Springs and Art
Distance from Melbourne: 1.5 hours via car or 2 hours via public transport
Facials, soaks, massages, fine dining…it’s all on the menu in Daylesford, one of the most indulgent day excursions from Melbourne you could ask for.
Known as Victoria’s spa capital, Daylesford invites you to unwind with a mineral soak at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, explore its vibrant art scene and indulge in farm-to-table dining at one of the region’s top restaurants. Lake Daylesford and Wombat Hill also offer peaceful settings for a scenic walk before or after your pamper.
You’ll also stumble upon a string of charming boutique stores bursting with one-of-a-kind collectables and artsy homewares. Bromley & Co., Arte Deco, Harry & Me, Alpaca Passion and Manteau Noir are among the must-visits for a spot of retail therapy.
More top spots to visit for a relaxing self-care day in Daylesford include:
- Daylesford Day Spa
- The Spa at Lake House
- Daylesford Healing Massage
- Lake House Restaurant
- Argus Dining Room
- The Convent Gallery
- The Farmers Arms
The Great Ocean Road (Torquay): Surf Culture Meets Scenic Wonders
Distance from Melbourne: 2.5 hours via car
No Melbourne road trip is complete without an adventure along the Great Ocean Road in Torquay, Australia’s surfing capital. This one’s a little further out than our other short trips from Melbourne, but if you’ve got the extra time, we highly recommend the trip.
Drive through the rugged coastline of the Southern Ocean and make pit stops at picturesque beaches, stunning hiking trails, villages bursting with adventure, award-winning restaurants and famous attractions.
Visit the iconic Bells Beach, explore the Surf Coast Walk and browse the many surf shops. If you’re not sure where to start (it is a pretty big stretch, after all), we recommend spending some time in Port Campbell, Port Fairy, the Otway’s National Park and Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village. And, if you have extra time, continue your drive for breathtaking coastal views at the Twelve Apostles.
Bendigo: Gold Rush History and Culture
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 45 minutes via car or 2 hours via public transport
Step back in time in Bendigo, a city built on the riches of the 1850s gold rush. Grand architecture meets a rich cultural heritage in this famous town, and it’s a treat for every member of the family – one of the best day trips from Melbourne on the map.
As Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy, Bendigo is also a foodie’s paradise. Beyond the incredible eats and world-class wines, you’ll find lush gardens, a renowned regional art gallery, buzzing bars, hidden laneways and bold street art.
Our top recommendations when visiting Bendigo include:
- The Central Deborah Gold Mine
- Bendigo Art Gallery
- Bendigo Botanic Gardens
- Fortuna Villa
- Lake Weeroona
- Poppet Head Lookout
- The Woodhouse Bar & Grill
- Ms Battherhams
- The Dispensary
Ballarat: Sovereign Hill and Victorian Heritage
Distance from Melbourne: 1.5 hours via car or 3 hours via public transport
Another gold rush gem, Ballarat is home to the famous Sovereign Hill, a living museum that brings history to life. Pan for gold, watch live reenactments and experience what life was like in the 1850s.
There are plenty of things to fill your itinerary in this historically quaint area. Browse the art gallery and the botanic gardens, take a ghost tour to uncover chilling gold rush era stories, treat the kids to adventures at Kryal Castle and indulge in some of the best sparkling wines Victoria has to offer.
Add these must-visit attractions to your Ballarat and Sovereign Hill one day trip Melbourne:
- Art Gallery of Ballarat
- Ballarat Botanical Gardens
- Eureka Centre Ballarat
- Ballarat Bird World
- Lake Wendouree
- Kryal Castle
- Ballarat Tramway Museum
Make Rambla @ Solarino House Your Melbourne Base
After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than returning to a stylish, comfortable space to recharge.
Rambla @ Solarino House in Brunswick offers the perfect home base, combining modern convenience with local charm. Enjoy spacious apartments, digital check-in and easy access to Melbourne’s best day trip destinations.
Book direct and save, because your next adventure starts with the perfect place to stay.
