Melbourne is a city of culture, food and arts but sometimes a break from the urban jungle is needed. Luckily, Melbourne is surrounded by amazing day trip destinations. Whether you’re looking for scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters or gourmet food experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best day trips from Melbourne.
1. Great Ocean Road
Arguably the most popular day trip from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road has stunning coastal views, rainforests and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. You’ll drive through charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay and maybe even spot some koalas in Kennett River. This scenic drive is a nature lover’s paradise with beautiful beaches, wildlife and coastal roads. Many Melbourne tours offer guided experiences along this route so you don’t miss any highlights.
A leisurely drive through the coastal towns allows for stops at beautiful spots with ocean views. Surfers will love the golden beaches along the way and animal lovers can visit nature reserves with Aussie animals. The rainforests of the Otways add another layer of adventure with hiking trails to waterfalls and ancient rainforests with unique flora and fauna.
Highlights:
- Scenic drive along the coast
- Twelve Apostles limestone stacks
- Rainforest walks in Otway National Park
- Surf beaches and wildlife encounters
- Ocean views from various lookouts
2. Yarra Valley Wine Region
A wine lover’s paradise, Yarra Valley is home to some of Australia’s best wineries. Only an hour from Melbourne this region offers wine tastings, gourmet food and vineyard views. Don’t forget to visit Domaine Chandon for sparkling wines or explore the region’s craft breweries and cider houses. The wine scene here is unbeatable making it one of the favourite day trips for wine enthusiasts. There are also several Melbourne tours that make it easy to visit the best wineries in the region.
Besides wine you can also experience beautiful gardens, artisan cheese and even spa treatments at some of the region’s luxury retreats. The wine regions cater to every taste, from full-bodied reds to crisp whites.
Highlights:
- Wine and cheese tastings
- Healesville Sanctuary (to see native Australian wildlife)
- Hot air balloon over the vineyards* Artisan cheese
3. Phillip Island
Animal lover’s paradise, Phillip Island is famous for the Penguin Parade where wild penguins waddle ashore at sunset. You can also visit the Koala Conservation Reserve, see the rugged coastline at the Nobbies or enjoy the beaches and motorsport attractions. This outdoor adventure is perfect for those who love Aussie animals in their natural habitat. If you don’t have a car, many Melbourne tours offer convenient trips to Phillip Island so it’s an easy day trip.
You can drive along the coastal roads to the beaches, perfect for relaxing or spotting marine life. The animal adventures here go beyond penguins and see seals and native bird species in their natural habitat.
Highlights:
- Evening Penguin Parade
- Koala Conservation Reserve
- Nobbies Boardwalk and Seal Rocks
- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
- Animal adventures for all ages
4. Mornington Peninsula
Love coastal views, hot springs and fine dining? The Mornington Peninsula is your ideal getaway. You can soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs, hike the Bushrangers Bay Trail, visit the charming seaside town of Sorrento or indulge in fresh seafood and wine from the region’s vineyards. Enjoy a spa treatment while taking in the views of the coastal towns. Whether you prefer a self-guided trip or an organised tour, many Melbourne tours cater for visitors looking for a luxurious day trip experience.
For adventure seekers, there are hiking trails that lead to dramatic cliffs and beautiful parks with some of the best views in the region.
Highlights:
- Peninsula Hot Springs
- Wine and food tours
- Stunning coastal walks
- Enchanted Adventure Garden and mazes
- Fabulous for relaxation and nature lovers
5. Dandenong Ranges
For a nature escape, head to the Dandenong Ranges, only an hour from Melbourne. Ride the famous Puffing Billy steam train, explore the fern gullies and have a traditional Devonshire tea in one of the mountain villages like Olinda or Sassafras. The mountain range is filled with green hills, tall forests and beautiful gardens that nature lovers will love. Many Melbourne tours offer guided tours of this stunning region so it’s an easy option for visitors.
Highlights:
- Puffing Billy steam train ride
- 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk* Fern gullies
- Mountain villages
- Steam train
6. Wilsons Promontory National Park
Known as ‘The Prom’, this national park is a nature lover and hiker’s paradise. Pristine beaches, scenic trails and wildlife – kangaroos, emus and wombats. Squeaky Beach is a must-see for its white quartz sand. Three hours from Melbourne, it’s worth the drive for an adventure. For an organised experience, Melbourne Tours offers packages that include transport and guided walks.
The walks here range from short to multi day treks and let you explore ancient rainforests, beautiful parks and wildlife encounters.
Highlights:
- Hiking trails with views
- Wildlife spotting
- Squeaky Beach’s white sands
- Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse
- Ancient rainforests and beautiful parks
Whether you’re an animal lover, nature nut or wine-tastings enthusiast, Melbourne has day trips for you. Plan your next road trip and see the beautiful parks, art galleries and coastal roads beyond the city!
Amy Smith 
