This post was last updated on 2024 September 20
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Melbourne is a fantastic (and “liveable”) city, but there’s some equally amazing stuff worth experiencing elsewhere in Victoria. From coastline to countryside to mountains, there are so many excellent opportunities for weekend trips from Melbourne, particularly if you’re craving a heavy hit of nature.
Here are what I consider the best Melbourne weekend getaways, all within a few hours from the city and ideal for a weekend away from Melbourne. Some of these Melbourne getaways are doable by public transport or group tour, but for maximum freedom you’ll want your own set of wheels if possible.
Great Ocean Road
Driving down the Great Ocean Road isn’t just an ideal weekend away from Melbourne; it’s actually so epic that it frequently earns a spot on most any Australian bucket list.
Planning a trip to Melbourne?
These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:
ACCOMMODATION IN MELBOURNE: I always search on Booking.com for accommodation, as their Genius loyalty program offers 10-20% discounts and free breakfast/upgrades for certain hotels.
FLIGHTS TO MELBOURNE: When researching flights, I always check Skyscanner first because it pulls in flight options across all airlines and saves you the trouble of searching each airline individually. When booking flights via Skyscanner, I always book directly with the airline rather than one of the third party options.
CAR RENTAL IN MELBOURNE: When renting a car on your travels, check DiscoverCars.com for the best deals.
ACTIVITIES IN MELBOURNE: If you’re looking to book tours or other organized activities on your travels, GetYourGuide and Viator both offer myriad options for fun things to do all around the world (think: sailing trips, cooking classes, city walking tours, and more).
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AUSTRALIA: Unless you can easily afford to pay for huge unexpected medical bills, DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE! These days, I usually buy the Safety Wing nomad insurance, as it’s very affordable and caters to digital nomads with a monthly subscription option. I’ve also been a longtime World Nomads user, and will still use them if I need more comprehensive insurance (e.g. for adventure activities) or if I am visiting the US (Americans aren’t eligible for Safety Wing’s US add-on option).
ESIM / SIM CARDS FOR AUSTRALIA: When traveling overseas, I always purchase an eSIM from Sims Direct for the country I’m going to, activate it before I depart, and as soon as I arrive I am automatically connected to the local network and can easily find my way to my accommodation. No need to to buy a local SIM card at the airport; eSIMs are fully electronic and don’t require you to take out your old SIM.
LUGGAGE: I am currently a July luggage girl (July Australia / July US). They offer a lifetime warranty, which I have used multiple times now – and every time, they have sent me a brand new replacement suitcase without hassle. I recommend their Checked Plus if traveling with 32kg/70lb of luggage (note: many airlines do not allow bags this heavy!), the Checked if traveling with 23kg/50lb of luggage, and the Carry On Light (Expanded) which is super lightweight and really helps you stay within the 7kg carry-on limit that many Aussie airlines enforce. Click to read my full review of July luggage.
The Great Ocean Road spans about 243km (151mi) from Torquay to Allansford and runs along some seriously stunning coastline – some of Australia’s best, in fact. From the famous surfing mecca of Bells Beach to London Bridge and the Twelve Apostles, there are beaches and dramatic rock structures galore to explore.
Also, if you want to spot a koala in the wild, one of the best places to do it is at Kennett River… which is about halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
READ MORE: A Great Ocean Road Trip
The best way to see the Great Ocean Road is by hiring a car in Melbourne and driving down it and back. I don’t recommend booking a Great Ocean Road tour, as these are typically just rushed day trips from Melbourne. You’ll want the freedom to stop off along the coast whenever you want, for as long as you’d like – trust me on this.
Note that much of the road is winding and therefore slow-going. Couple this with the frequent urge to stop at viewpoints and beaches along the day and it’s safe to assume the trip will take much more time than you think it will. I’d recommend 2-3 days to make the return trip from Melbourne.
CLICK TO BOOK A CAR FOR YOUR GREAT OCEAN ROAD TRIP.
Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road: I’ve stayed at this Airbnb in Warrnambool, and this Airbnb near Apollo Bay and recommend both. I’ve also camped along the way. If you’re a solo or budget traveler, the Apollo Bay YHA is a fantastic and eco-friendly option.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD:
Mornington Peninsula
When I declared the Mornington Peninsula as the best Melbourne getaway, I wasn’t kidding. I still feel this way 2+ years later.
What makes the Mornington Peninsula so special is that it’s not really on the tourist track, yet it’s such an incredible spot that it really does deserve more fame and tourism.
I adore the peninsula because it has equally stunning ocean and bay beaches, wineries with a view of the sea, coastal hikes, and bush walks – basically all of my favorite things in life. And it’s not uncommon to have these spots all to yourself – makes it feel like you’re one of the few who are in on a secret, ya know?
Seriously, this place has everything you could possibly want in a coastal weekend away from Melbourne. You want photos of those iconic (and obscenely priced) rainbow-colored shacks on the beach? They are all over the bayside beaches.
Want to spot some typical Aussie wildlife? You’re sure to spot kangaroos and echidnas in the bush. Just want to relax? The Peninsula Hot Springs are a must-do.
And bonus: the peninsula is pretty well-connected to Melbourne by public transit, which makes it doable even without a car.
READ MORE: Why The Mornington Peninsula is the Best Weekend Trip from Melbourne
Where to stay on the Mornington Peninsula: I’ve stayed at this Airbnb in Rye and to this date it’s one of the most gorgeous properties I’ve stayed at. I’ve also stayed in this funky house in Capel Sound and it was just the coolest.
If you’re up for camping, there are several caravan parks along the bay, right on the beach. Unfortunately there aren’t really any hostels or budget options on the peninsula, but some of the Airbnbs are reasonably affordable.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA:
Phillip Island
Most people know Phillip Island for its legendary nightly penguin parade. I’ve made two trips to the island and managed to have a phenomenal time without seeing these little creatures, so that should tell you just how worthwhile it is to make the trip out to Phillip Island. It really is one of the best weekend trips from Melbourne that you can take.
Yes, definitely watch the penguin parade – but don’t forget about the sea lions (best seen via an eco cruise) or koalas (there’s a koala sanctuary)… not to mention the gorgeous landscapes across the island.
Cape Woolamai and the Nobbies are the most scenic parts of Phillip Island and offer stunning coastal views and hiking trails. The rest of the island is dotted with beaches, vineyards, and farms. It really is quite picturesque and feels more like a country escape than an island one – which is not a bad thing, I say.
Phillip Island is accessible from Melbourne by bus, and there’s a seasonal shuttle bus that runs around the island and stops at most of the major sights and attractions. For maximum exploration and freedom, you’ll want to have a car.
READ MORE: Things To Do On Phillip Island (Besides The Penguin Parade)
Where to stay on Phillip Island: I’ve stayed at the The Island Accommodation YHA, which is an impressive budget accommodation option. I’ve also camped at Cowes Caravan Park which is right on the beach.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION ON PHILLIP ISLAND:
Wilsons Promontory
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. If immersing yourself in a marine national park sounds like an ideal way to spend a weekend away from Melbourne, get yourself to the Prom.
Wilsons Promontory is about a 3 hour drive and a world away from Melbourne.
CLICK TO BOOK A CAR FOR YOUR WEEKEND AWAY FROM MELBOURNE.
Unlike most of the other weekend getaways from Melbourne mentioned in this post, this isn’t one where you base yourself in civilization and venture out into nature. The Prom is best done with an overnight stay in the park so you’re surrounded by nature full-time and can make the most of all the beaches and bush walks on your doorstep.
Be sure to summit Mt. Oberon for sunset, walk across the aptly-named Squeaky Beach, and wander out to the sand dunes at the Big Drift.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Wilsons Prom Walks & Beaches
Where to stay in Wilsons Promontory: If you want to stay in the park, you can book a campsite, cabin, cottage, or room in advance via Parks Victoria. Otherwise, there are a few B&Bs in Foster which is the closest town to the Prom. Personally, I loved camping in the park – this is definitely the way to go if you want to be up close and personal with wombats in the wild!
Planning a trip to Melbourne?
These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:
ACCOMMODATION IN MELBOURNE: I always search on Booking.com for accommodation, as their Genius loyalty program offers 10-20% discounts and free breakfast/upgrades for certain hotels.
FLIGHTS TO MELBOURNE: When researching flights, I always check Skyscanner first because it pulls in flight options across all airlines and saves you the trouble of searching each airline individually. When booking flights via Skyscanner, I always book directly with the airline rather than one of the third party options.
CAR RENTAL IN MELBOURNE: When renting a car on your travels, check DiscoverCars.com for the best deals.
ACTIVITIES IN MELBOURNE: If you’re looking to book tours or other organized activities on your travels, GetYourGuide and Viator both offer myriad options for fun things to do all around the world (think: sailing trips, cooking classes, city walking tours, and more).
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AUSTRALIA: Unless you can easily afford to pay for huge unexpected medical bills, DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE! These days, I usually buy the Safety Wing nomad insurance, as it’s very affordable and caters to digital nomads with a monthly subscription option. I’ve also been a longtime World Nomads user, and will still use them if I need more comprehensive insurance (e.g. for adventure activities) or if I am visiting the US (Americans aren’t eligible for Safety Wing’s US add-on option).
ESIM / SIM CARDS FOR AUSTRALIA: When traveling overseas, I always purchase an eSIM from Sims Direct for the country I’m going to, activate it before I depart, and as soon as I arrive I am automatically connected to the local network and can easily find my way to my accommodation. No need to to buy a local SIM card at the airport; eSIMs are fully electronic and don’t require you to take out your old SIM.
LUGGAGE: I am currently a July luggage girl (July Australia / July US). They offer a lifetime warranty, which I have used multiple times now – and every time, they have sent me a brand new replacement suitcase without hassle. I recommend their Checked Plus if traveling with 32kg/70lb of luggage (note: many airlines do not allow bags this heavy!), the Checked if traveling with 23kg/50lb of luggage, and the Carry On Light (Expanded) which is super lightweight and really helps you stay within the 7kg carry-on limit that many Aussie airlines enforce. Click to read my full review of July luggage.
Yarra Valley
If you’re the slightest bit of a wino, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s most famous wine regions.
The Yarra produces some excellent cool climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. And at just an hour’s drive east of Melbourne, it suits as either a weekend trip or one of the best day trips from Melbourne.
If you want to drink without the burden of driving or choosing which of the many cellar doors to stop by for a tasting, it’s best to book a Yarra Valley wine tour. Otherwise, a self-drive tour of the region is more than doable as long as you’ve got a designated driver.
READ MORE: Yarra Valley Wine Tour: A Melbourne Must-Do.
Where to stay in the Yarra Valley: I haven’t stayed overnight in the Yarra Valley, but would recommend booking an Airbnb or staying in a house or cottage either on a vineyard or elsewhere in the countryside. A self-contained hideaway is the way to go!
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN THE YARRA VALLEY:
The Grampians
The best way I can describe the Grampians is by referring to this national park as a rock playground.
Hiking and climbing the craggy rock is the thing to do here, but you could also see plenty by driving around between various lookout points. A couple recommendations: the Balconies yield some of the most stunning (and vertigo-inducing) views in the park, and Mt. Zero is a top sunset-watching spot.
CLICK TO BOOK A CAR FOR YOUR WEEKEND AWAY FROM MELBOURNE.
The Grampians are about a 3 hour drive northwest from Melbourne.
Where to stay in the Grampians: You can either camp in the park, or stay in Halls Gap. The Grampians Eco YHA is a great budget- and eco-friendly accommodation option.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN THE GRAMPIANS:
The High Country
Australia’s not known for its mountains, but if that’s your jam, the Victorian High Country is the place to go for some quality alpine time.
Drive about 3 hours northeast of Melbourne and you’ll be smack in the middle of High Country, anchored by the town of Bright. The region is renowned for its winter ski resorts and cycling routes. The Murray to Mountains rail trail runs for over 100km through the region and is a definite must-do on your Melbourne getaway, even if you just ride small sections of it at a time.
Unlike the bulk of Australia, the High Country experiences 4 distinct seasons and has plenty to offer during each of them. It has hands-down the best fall foliage in Australia, so for that reason I’d recommend an autumn visit. Driving down roads lined with yellow, orange, and red-leaved trees reminded me of my New England roots – it’s seriously stunning out here during the month of May!
No matter the season, do make time to explore Mt. Buffalo National Park’s waterfalls and hiking trails, go wine tasting at the picturesque wineries, and sample the local produce (cheese and nuts and berries!).
READ MORE: Highlights From Mt. Buffalo National Park
Where to stay in High Country: I mostly camped in free campsites around the High Country, but I think a B&B would be ideal for a weekend escape. There are heaps around Bright!
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN VIC HIGH COUNTRY:
The Dandenong Ranges
If you fancy closeby Melbourne getaway or have kids in tow, the Dandenongs are an excellent choice.
Hiking the 1000 Steps (and loving it!).
Just an hour east of Melbourne, this mountain range makes for an easy access playground for Melbournians and visitors alike. Apart from bushwalking and frolicking amongst nature, there are plenty of noteworthy attractions in the Dandenongs:
- Kokoda Track Memorial Walk – aka the 1000 Steps Walk. Popular amongst fitness-minded locals.
- Puffing Billy Railway – A preserved steam railway that you can still ride today.
- Trees Adventure – Tree ropes and zip lining courses in the forest.
- Gardens – There are a number of gorgeous gardens around the Dandenongs, including Cloudehill Gardens, the Botanical Garden, the Arboretum, and more.
- Tessalaar Tulip Festival – A must-do if you’re around Melbourne from mid-Sept to mid-Oct.
Where to stay near the Dandenongs: I’d actually recommend basing yourself in Melbourne, since the Dandenongs aren’t very far away.
Spa Country
For the less outdoorsy (or in my case, for the rain and cold weather-averse), Victoria’s Spa Country makes for an ideal weekend away from Melbourne.
At just a 1.5 hour drive northwest of the city, the Spa Country is home to 140+ mineral springs, making it the highest concentration of mineral springs in Australia.
Photo credit: Hepburn Bathhouse
Come to this part of Victoria to relax and unwind, indulge in spa treatments, and bathe in the rejuvenating mineral pools at one of these resorts:
- Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa – $45-55 for 2 hours of mineral bathing in the Bathhouse.
- The Mineral Spa at Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel – $50-70 for one hour or $70-90 for 90 minutes at The Retreat, which includes mineral water bathing, sauna, and steam room. Mineral have a view of the gardens and native bushland!
- Lake House – $105-135 for 30mins in the Treetop spa baths
Where to stay in Spa Country: Center your trip around the two main spa towns, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, and book in at one of the resorts or B&Bs in the area:
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SPA COUNTRY:
Booking.com
Planning a trip to Melbourne?
These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:
ACCOMMODATION IN MELBOURNE: I always search on Booking.com for accommodation, as their Genius loyalty program offers 10-20% discounts and free breakfast/upgrades for certain hotels.
FLIGHTS TO MELBOURNE: When researching flights, I always check Skyscanner first because it pulls in flight options across all airlines and saves you the trouble of searching each airline individually. When booking flights via Skyscanner, I always book directly with the airline rather than one of the third party options.
CAR RENTAL IN MELBOURNE: When renting a car on your travels, check DiscoverCars.com for the best deals.
ACTIVITIES IN MELBOURNE: If you’re looking to book tours or other organized activities on your travels, GetYourGuide and Viator both offer myriad options for fun things to do all around the world (think: sailing trips, cooking classes, city walking tours, and more).
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AUSTRALIA: Unless you can easily afford to pay for huge unexpected medical bills, DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE! These days, I usually buy the Safety Wing nomad insurance, as it’s very affordable and caters to digital nomads with a monthly subscription option. I’ve also been a longtime World Nomads user, and will still use them if I need more comprehensive insurance (e.g. for adventure activities) or if I am visiting the US (Americans aren’t eligible for Safety Wing’s US add-on option).
ESIM / SIM CARDS FOR AUSTRALIA: When traveling overseas, I always purchase an eSIM from Sims Direct for the country I’m going to, activate it before I depart, and as soon as I arrive I am automatically connected to the local network and can easily find my way to my accommodation. No need to to buy a local SIM card at the airport; eSIMs are fully electronic and don’t require you to take out your old SIM.
LUGGAGE: I am currently a July luggage girl (July Australia / July US). They offer a lifetime warranty, which I have used multiple times now – and every time, they have sent me a brand new replacement suitcase without hassle. I recommend their Checked Plus if traveling with 32kg/70lb of luggage (note: many airlines do not allow bags this heavy!), the Checked if traveling with 23kg/50lb of luggage, and the Carry On Light (Expanded) which is super lightweight and really helps you stay within the 7kg carry-on limit that many Aussie airlines enforce. Click to read my full review of July luggage.
Geelong & Bellarine Peninsula
On the way to the Great Ocean Road is the Bellarine Peninsula, one of the most underrated weekend getaways from Melbourne.
Geelong and the Bellarine, as this region is called, are chock full of idyllic seaside villages, surf beaches, and wineries. This is a great weekend trip from Melbourne if you want something more chilled out and less touristic than most of the other Melbourne getaways.
A few highlights of the Bellarine:
- Bellarine Rail Trail – Runs alongside the historic Bellarine Peninsula Railway from Geelong to Queenscliff. Cycle or walk through wildflowers and native birdlife and explore the landscapes of the peninsula.
- Adventure Park Geelong – Victoria’s biggest theme park.
- Wine and dine – Sample the best local food and wine around the peninsula.
Where to stay in Geelong & the Bellarine: Book a boutique hotel in Point Lonsdale. The Nest contains 3 pods with panoramic views from each other their private deck spas.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN GEELONG & THE BELLARINE:
Gippsland Lakes
At just over 3 hours east from Melbourne, Gippsland Lakes is one of the better long weekend getaways from Melbourne. Head for Bairnsdale (the regional hub) and from here, you’ll be able to explore the largest inland lakes system in Australia.
What’s there to do at Gippsland? You must get out on a boat or some kind of aquatic vessel on this weekend getaway from Melbourne, whether you hire a kayak or paddleboard, charter a yacht, or go waterskiing.
One highlight of a trip to Gippsland Lakes is visiting Raymond Island, a small island in the middle of one of the lakes that’s home to Victoria’s largest koala population. You can get there via the free ferry from Paynesville.
If you’re more of a beach bum than a lake fan, fear not: you’ve got 90 miles’ worth of golden sand in Ninety Mile Beach, which separates the lakes from the sea. It’s not uncommon to spot whales and dolphins from this beach.
Where to stay at Gippsland Lakes: Base yourself in Lakes Entrance (the nicer town) or Bair
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION AT GIPPSLAND LAKES:
nsdale (closer to Melbs).
Ballarat
Ballarat is a 1.5 hour drive northwest of Melbourne, and is Victoria’s third largest city (+ its largest inland city!).
This makes for a good weekend away from Melbourne if you’re seeking the comforts of a city, somewhere easily accessible by train, or a destination fit for history buffs and foodies.
If you fit into the former bucket, you can learn more about the 1850s gold rush era by visiting the Gold Museum, experiencing AURA (an immersive theatre experience about how gold “revolutionized Australia”), or panning for real gold at Sovereign Hill.
Not into history? It’s fun just to wander down Ballarat’s heritage building-lined streets, stop off at cafes and shops that catch your eye, and have dinner and drinks at one of the top restaurants.
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN BALLARAT:
Booking.com
Bendigo
Bendigo is another gold rush town in Victoria steeped in history (and $$). Think fancy old architecture, fountains, and manicured gardens. The city is also surrounded by bush and contains several lakes, so if you’re more of a nature lover than history buff, there’s plenty for you to enjoy here as well.
Here are a few of the top things to do in Bendigo:
- Take an underground mine tour at the Central Deborah Gold Mine
- Ride on the Talking Tram, which covers a 5km route around the town centre
- Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, which is the largest gothic cathedral in the Southern Hemisphere
- Tour the Golden Dragon Museum and learn more about Bendigo’s history with the Chinese
- Visit the Bendigo Art Gallery, one of Australia’s most popular regional galleries
- Hire a bike and cycle around Lake Weeroona or on the Bendigo Creek Trail
SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATION IN BALLARAT:
Planning a trip to Melbourne?
These are the sites I use and recommend for booking travel:
ACCOMMODATION IN MELBOURNE: I always search on Booking.com for accommodation, as their Genius loyalty program offers 10-20% discounts and free breakfast/upgrades for certain hotels.
FLIGHTS TO MELBOURNE: When researching flights, I always check Skyscanner first because it pulls in flight options across all airlines and saves you the trouble of searching each airline individually. When booking flights via Skyscanner, I always book directly with the airline rather than one of the third party options.
CAR RENTAL IN MELBOURNE: When renting a car on your travels, check DiscoverCars.com for the best deals.
ACTIVITIES IN MELBOURNE: If you’re looking to book tours or other organized activities on your travels, GetYourGuide and Viator both offer myriad options for fun things to do all around the world (think: sailing trips, cooking classes, city walking tours, and more).
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AUSTRALIA: Unless you can easily afford to pay for huge unexpected medical bills, DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE! These days, I usually buy the Safety Wing nomad insurance, as it’s very affordable and caters to digital nomads with a monthly subscription option. I’ve also been a longtime World Nomads user, and will still use them if I need more comprehensive insurance (e.g. for adventure activities) or if I am visiting the US (Americans aren’t eligible for Safety Wing’s US add-on option).
ESIM / SIM CARDS FOR AUSTRALIA: When traveling overseas, I always purchase an eSIM from Sims Direct for the country I’m going to, activate it before I depart, and as soon as I arrive I am automatically connected to the local network and can easily find my way to my accommodation. No need to to buy a local SIM card at the airport; eSIMs are fully electronic and don’t require you to take out your old SIM.
LUGGAGE: I am currently a July luggage girl (July Australia / July US). They offer a lifetime warranty, which I have used multiple times now – and every time, they have sent me a brand new replacement suitcase without hassle. I recommend their Checked Plus if traveling with 32kg/70lb of luggage (note: many airlines do not allow bags this heavy!), the Checked if traveling with 23kg/50lb of luggage, and the Carry On Light (Expanded) which is super lightweight and really helps you stay within the 7kg carry-on limit that many Aussie airlines enforce. Click to read my full review of July luggage.
