The Best Road Trips from Melbourne: Day Trips to Weekend Getaways
Victoria is one of Australia’s most driveable states. From Melbourne you can reach surf coast, snowfields, ancient volcanic rock, Murray River towns, and old gold rush streets, all without clocking up more than three hours on the road. This guide covers 14 of the best road trips from Melbourne, organised by drive time so you can find something that fits whether you have half a day or a long weekend.
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How to Use This Guide
This guide covers 14 of the best road trips from Melbourne, organised by drive time from the CBD. Whether you are looking for a quick scenic drive, a full day out, or a long weekend away, you should find something here that fits.
A few things worth knowing before you go. Distances and drive times are approximate from Melbourne’s CBD and do not account for stops along the way. CityLink tolls apply when leaving the city on most major routes, so keep your e-TAG handy or register a pass before you travel. If you are heading to Mount Buller, the last petrol station is at Mirimbah and all vehicles staying overnight at the resort must carry snow chains during the winter season. Most destinations in this guide work as day trips but are worth an overnight stay if your schedule allows.
Melbourne Road Trips at a Glance
| Destination | Distance from Melbourne | Best For | Minimum Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yarra Valley | 55km | Wineries, wildlife, chocolate | Half day |
| Macedon Ranges | 60km | Hiking, cool climate wines | Full day |
| Mornington Peninsula | 75km | Coast, hot springs, food and wine | Full day |
| Daylesford | 115km | Mineral springs, spa retreats, markets | Overnight |
| Ballarat | 115km | Gold rush history, open air museums | Full day |
| Phillip Island | 140km | Penguins, wildlife, beaches | Full day |
| Great Otway National Park | 162km | Rainforest, waterfalls, koalas | Overnight |
| Walhalla | 185km | Historic gold town, ghost tours | Overnight |
| Wilsons Promontory | 220km | Beaches, hiking, sand dunes | 2 days |
| Echuca | 223km | Murray River, paddle steamers, silo art | 2 to 3 days |
| Mount Buller | 235km | Snow sports, alpine walks | Overnight |
| Halls Gap and the Grampians | 260km | Rock formations, waterfalls, wildlife | 2 days |
| Gippsland Lakes | 277km | Lakes, seafood, coastal walks | 2 to 3 days |
| Great Alpine Road | 290km | Scenic driving, food and wine, caves | 3 days |
Quick Escapes: Under 90 Minutes from Melbourne
These first few are perfect if you are looking for short road trips from Melbourne. Whether for a day trip or an overnight stay that you can reach in just an hour or two these are all worthy choices day out of the city.
Yarra Valley
Distance from Melbourne – 55 km
The Yarra Valley is an hour from Melbourne and packs in more than most regions twice its size. Yes, there are wineries, but there are also wildlife sanctuaries, chocolate makers, cheese producers, flower farms, and one of Victoria’s best known animal parks at Healesville. It is genuinely one of the easiest day trips from the city to pull off well.
Start with a stop at Lilydale Lakes for a stroll around the lake. Then, head to Badger Creek Blueberry Winery. They also have delicious pear ciders and you can sample both on a tasting paddle.
If you’re keen to sample more wineries, don’t miss Yering Station Winery, one of the oldest wineries in Victoria. They have an impressive tasting room and a restaurant overlooking the Dandenong Ranges.
Badgers Brook Winery is another great option that may be the most kid-friendly winery in Australia, with retro playground equipment galore!
Other recommended stops are the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery where you can pick up handmade chocolates or dine in the restaurant, and Yarra Valley Dairy for a cheese tasting.
The Yarra Valley Lodge is the perfect base for your stay, overlooking a golf course with beautiful sunset views and kangaroos everywhere.
Contributed by Holly Connors from Four Around The World
Macedon Ranges
Distance from Melbourne – 60 km
The Macedon Ranges sit about an hour from Melbourne and run noticeably cooler than the city, which makes them a good escape in summer. The landscape is rocky and heavily forested with a handful of peaks worth climbing.
The ancient volcanic formation was the setting for Joan Lindsay’s 1967 novel and Peter Weir’s celebrated 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock, which told the story of the mysterious disappearance of a group of schoolgirls on Valentine’s Day 1900. Whether the story is fact or fiction has never been conclusively settled, which only adds to the atmosphere of the place.
Woodend is the best base, with more dining and accommodation options than Macedon township. The Macedon Ranges Hotel and Spa Macedon Ranges Hotel is the pick if you want to make a proper weekend of it.
Contributed by Kimmie from Adventures and Sunsets
Mornington Peninsula
Distance from Melbourne – 75 km
The Mornington Peninsula sits just 90 minutes from Melbourne but feels like a different world. The drive down follows the bay before opening up to ocean beaches, cool-climate wineries, and the famous geothermal pools at Peninsula Hot Springs. It works as a day trip but most people find one night is not enough.
We recommend you spend an hour or two strolling the Millionaires Walk, a favourite among the locals, this path allows you to take a glimpse into the backyards and gardens of the mansions that line the waterfront.
Foodies will find the Mornington Peninsula enjoy the thriving culinary scene. I highly recommend you add a couple of the region’s famous wineries, with wines crafted from the region’s cool-climate vineyards.
If you plan to book an overnight stay, I highly recommend the picturesque Jackalope Hotel. This luxury boutique hotel offers stylish and contemporary rooms, breathtaking vineyard views, and exceptional amenities.
Other highly-recommended attractions include the Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can unwind in natural geothermal pools, and the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
A 2-day road trip to the Mornington Peninsula presents a blend of natural beauty and food and wine destinations. With its proximity to Melbourne, the region is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for a memorable and indulgent getaway.
Half Day and Full Day Drives from Melbourne
Daylesford
Distance from Melbourne – 115 km
Daylesford sits about an hour and a half from Melbourne and has built its reputation almost entirely on water. The area sits above one of the largest concentrations of mineral springs in Australia and the spa retreats here draw people who want to properly switch off for a day or two.
Beyond the spas, the town itself is worth exploring. The Sunday markets are among the best in regional Victoria, the antique shops along the main street can easily fill an afternoon, and Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens offers a quiet hour away from the crowds. The Daylesford Spa Country Railway is a good option if you are travelling with kids.
Mineral Springs Hotel in nearby Hepburn Springs is the most well known place to stay and puts you close to the mineral baths. Daylesford works as an overnight trip but most people find two nights is the sweet spot.
Suggested by Paula from Truly Expat Travel
Ballarat
Distance from Melbourne – 115 km
Ballarat is one of Victoria’s most underrated day trips. The city made its name during the 1850s gold rush and has not forgotten it. The streets are lined with grand Victorian architecture, the kind that only gets built when a lot of money arrives quickly. Give it a full day and you will barely scratch the surface.
One of my favourite things to do in Ballarat is to visit Sovereign Hill. It’s an open-air museum that beautifully recreates an 1850s gold mining town. While walking the recreated streets of old Ballarat and interacting with the staff who act as locals and work the shops and businesses.
Try your hand at panning for gold, or even take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a fun experience that truly brings history to life.
If you are travelling with kids, add a stop at Kryal Castle, a replicate of a medieval castle that offers visitors a unique experience of stepping back in time to the Middle Ages.
Take a castle tour, watch a Jousting Tournament or a falconry show or if you prefer to get involved then sign up for Knight school or try your hand at archery. Once you have had your fun, sit down to a medieval banquet.
When it comes to where to sleep for a couple’s getaway I recommend Craig’s Royal Hotel. It’s a historic establishment that exudes elegance and charm. The rooms are beautifully appointed, and the service is impeccable. Staying there feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern comforts.
Weekend Road Trips from Melbourne
The next group might be considered by many locals to be a long drive from Melbourne, but thanks to the compact size of Victoria it’s really not far at all
Phillip Island
Distance from Melbourne – 140 km
Phillip Island is about two hours from Melbourne and best known for the Penguin Parade, where little penguins come ashore at sunset every single night of the year. It is the largest little penguin colony in the world, with around 40,000 birds on the Summerland Peninsula. Booking tickets in advance is essential, particularly in peak season.
Right before heading over the bridge to Phillip Island, there is a daily pelican feeding at San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op. The feeding occurs at lunchtime and you can get an order of fish and chips before driving to Phillip Island.
Nobbie’s Lookout not only has beautiful views and a nice boardwalk, but you might even see penguins hanging out underneath the boardwalk during the day.
To guarantee a penguin sighting, attend the Penguin Parade that takes place at sunset. Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins in the world.
You might also like to take a scenic flight over the area or a sunset cruise if you prefer something a little less adventurous
While there are plenty of things to do on Phillip Island including spending time on the beach, nature walks, and fun things to do with kids, if you are looking to explore more, Churchill Island is a small island off of Phillip Island with a 19th-century working farm.
NRMA Phillip Island Holiday Park has beachfront camping and pet-friendly cabins that sleep up to 6 guests.
Contributed by Lanie from Make More Adventures
Great Otway National Park
Distance from Melbourne – 162 km
Great Otway National Park is about two hours from Melbourne and covers a stretch of Victoria’s coast that takes in rainforest, waterfalls, and rugged cliff tops in a relatively small area. The Otway Fly Treetop Walk is the standout attraction, a raised steel walkway that takes you through the forest canopy at up to 30 metres above the ground. Wildlife is plentiful here and koala sightings along the main roads are common, particularly in the early morning.
If you are staying overnight, the Cape Otway Lightstation is one of the more memorable places to sleep on the Great Ocean Road. Built in 1848, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia and guests stay in the original lightkeepers’ quarters. A morning lighthouse climb is included with accommodation, and once the gates close for the night you have the heritage precinct largely to yourself.
Contributed by Anna from Really Wildlife
Walhalla
Distance from Melbourne – 185 km
Walhalla sits about two and a half hours from Melbourne in Baw Baw National Park and is one of those places that genuinely surprises people who make the effort to get there. Often described as one of Australia’s most haunted towns, it started as a gold mining town in the 1860s and at its peak had a population of around 4,000 people. Today fewer than 20 people live there permanently, which gives the perfectly preserved main street an atmosphere you will not find anywhere else in Victoria.
Spend time exploring the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine, one of the richest mines in Australian history, or join one of the ghost tours that run on weekend evenings. The Walhalla Goldfields Railway is worth doing for the views alone, taking you on a scenic ride through the hills and valleys of Gippsland. There are also several good walking tracks in the surrounding area for those who want to stretch their legs.
If you are staying overnight, the Walhalla Star Hotel is the obvious choice. On the drive back to Melbourne you pass through Moe, where the Old Gippstown Heritage Park is worth a stop if you want more insight into the region’s history.
Contributed by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
Echuca
Distance from Melbourne – 223 km
Echuca sits on the Murray River about two and a half hours north of Melbourne and is one of those towns that rewards a slower pace. The historic Port of Echuca is the main draw, where you can board a paddle steamer and head a few kilometres upriver to get a sense of how important the Murray was to the region in the 1800s. Book your cruise in advance as they fill quickly on weekends.
High Street is worth an hour on foot for its well preserved Victorian architecture and independent shops. The Echuca Moama Silo Art Trail extends into the surrounding towns of Colbinabbin, Rochester and Picola and makes for a good half day drive if you have the time. Animal lovers should add the Kyabram Fauna Park to their list.
Before returning to Melbourne on the third day, make sure to visit any missed attractions or explore nearby highlights like the National Holden Museum, which has over 40 classic Holdens on display
Echuca deserves at least two nights to do it properly. It is a destination we will cover in more depth in a dedicated guide.
Suggested by Bec from Explore Victoria
Wilsons Promontory
Distance from Melbourne – 220 km
Wilsons Promontory, known locally as the Prom, is the most southerly point on the Australian mainland and one of Victoria’s most popular national parks. It is about two and a half hours from Melbourne and packs in an unusual mix of terrain for a single destination: ocean beaches, sand dunes, dense forest, and mountain walks all within easy reach of each other.
The Big Drift, Squeaky Beach, Mount Oberon Summit and the Prom Wildlife Walk are the best things to do in Wilsons Promontory.
Big Drift is a sand dune hidden in a forest. Walking through the forest you would never guess you’re so close to a massive dune. But then the ground slowly starts to change from soil to sand and soon after you’re rewarded with an amazing sand dune overlooking the surrounding forest.
Squeaky Beach is, as the name suggests, a beach that squeaks. You can stomp on the sand and actually make it squeak! The beach isn’t just squeaky though, it’s also really beautiful. It’s a great place for a swim or a picnic.
Mount Oberon Summit is a scenic hike. From the top, you have the best view of the Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Suggested by Tina from Veganderlust
Mount Buller
Distance 235km from Melbourne
One of the most picturesque road trips to take from Melbourne is to Mount Buller. Being the closest snow resort to Melbourne, Mount Buller makes a perfect weekend getaway. Part of Australian Alpine National Park, the resort is around a three-hour drive from the city centre via Mansfield town.
Note: two things to note; all cars staying overnight at the resort must have snow chains and the last petrol station is at Mirimbah town.
Even though Mount Buller is perfect to visit all around the year, the ski season is between the months of June and August.
There are a few routes to get to Mount Buller from Melbourne. My preferred one is through the roads of Yarra Valley and Healesville regions. This allows you to indulge in some of the most amazing wines in the country, or perhaps buy a few bottles for your visit.
As Mount Buller is a ski resort, we recommend you stay within the resort itself. They have a variety of options, ranging from budget to luxury. We loved this 2 bedroom apartment. It has amazing views and can sleep up to six people.
Skiing and snowboarding are top choices for daytime fun here. If you are not into adventure sports the resort also offers plenty of less strenuous activities such as history hunt tours, sculpture park walks, and indoor sports and air zone areas.
From Raksha Nagaraj at Solo Passport
Three Day Road Trips from Melbourne
Halls Gap, The Grampians
Distance from Melbourne – 260km
It only takes three hours to get from Melbourne to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and the township of Halls Gap which is a great base for exploring the Grampians best spots.
The most direct route is through Ballarat where you could stop for a day to visit Sovereign Hill, the gold mining pioneer village.
On your first day, you can hit the walking tracks and check out some waterfalls and lookouts. See water tumbling over Mackenzie Falls, amazing views from Reed Lookout and incredible rock formations at the Pinnacle. Exploring the rock pools at Venus Baths is great fun too.
Take it a bit easier the next day. Start with brunch at one of the Stoney Creek cafes or bakery then try your luck at Halls Gap mini golf – one of the toughest mini golf courses in Australia.
In the afternoon, meet the animals at the fantastic Halls Gap Zoo or take lunch to the picturesque Zumsteins. Picnic where you can spot emus and wallabies on the walk to pretty Fish Falls.
Breeze Holiday Park in Halls Gap is a great place to stay, it is so centrally located and has excellent facilities. There is no bad time to go to the Grampians. In winter the falls have lots of water, go in spring for wildflowers, autumn for great hiking weather (there are plenty of family-friendly walks) and summer to kayak on Lake Bellfield.
Contributed by Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers
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Gippsland Lakes
Distance from Melbourne- 277km
The Gippsland Lakes sit about three hours east of Melbourne and form one of the largest inland lake systems in Australia. Most people base themselves in Lakes Entrance, the largest town on the system, which gives easy access to the 90 Mile Beach and the calmer waters of Cunningham Arm. The Boathouse floating restaurant is the obvious choice for seafood given the local fishing fleet brings in fresh fish daily.
The smaller towns nearby are worth the short drive. In Paynesville, a free ferry takes you across to Raymond Island where a koala walk winds through the trees and sightings are common. Metung is quieter still, with a waterfront pub that is hard to leave on a warm afternoon. Wyanga Park Winery makes a good final stop before heading back to Melbourne, sitting close enough to the highway to not add much time to the drive home.
We always say when you’re by the sea eat seafood and the Boathouse floating restaurant has great views and even better seafood. The local fishing fleet brings in fresh fish daily. If you have a sweet tooth, head to the local Riviera Ice Creamery. Homemade ice cream made from fresh farm milk awaits you in a variety of inviting flavours, or pop into Big Bears Donuts.
Most people base themselves in the town of Lakes Entrance, which is considered the capital of the lakes system. It is the largest town, featuring hotels, caravan parks, and apartments for all budgets. We stayed at The Esplanade Resort and Spa.
Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel
Great Alpine Road
Distance from Melbourne – 290 km
The Great Alpine Road runs 304 kilometres from Wangaratta in the north east to Bairnsdale on the Gippsland coast and is Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road. At its peak it reaches 1,840 metres above sea level near Mount Hotham, where the views across the Victorian Alps on a clear day are genuinely hard to beat.
The road passes through some of Victoria’s best kept secrets. The gold rush towns of Beechworth and Bright are worth a full day each. The food and wine region of Milawa sits at the northern end, while the Buchan Caves Reserve near the southern end is home to some of the most impressive limestone caves in Australia. Allow at least three days to cover the route properly.
Note that vehicles travelling between Harrietville and Omeo must carry snow chains during the declared snow season. Check VicRoads for current conditions before you go.
Practical Tips for Driving from Melbourne
Getting out of the city: Most routes out of Melbourne use CityLink or EastLink toll roads. If you do not have an e-TAG, register a pass online before you travel or within three days of your trip to avoid infringement notices. Passes can be purchased through Linkt.
Fuel: Fill up before you leave Melbourne or in the first major town you pass through. Regional petrol prices are higher than the city and some smaller towns have limited opening hours. If you are heading to Mount Buller, the last petrol station is at Mirimbah.
Snow chains: If you are visiting Mount Buller between June and August, snow chains are compulsory for all vehicles travelling to the resort. Chains can be hired at Mirimbah if you do not own a set. All vehicles staying overnight must carry chains regardless of conditions.
Road conditions: Some routes in this guide pass through alpine or rural areas where conditions can change quickly. Check VicRoads traffic and road condition updates before heading out, particularly for the Great Alpine Road and Mount Buller in winter.
Best time to visit: Victoria is a year-round destination but each region has a peak season. The Grampians is at its best in spring when wildflowers are out. The Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula are popular year-round. The alpine areas including Mount Buller and the Great Alpine Road are busiest in the ski season between June and August. Gippsland Lakes and Phillip Island peak over summer school holidays so book accommodation early if you are travelling in January.
Where will you go next?
If it’s your first time driving in Australia, read these driving tips for Australian roads put together by Charles who has spent the last 12 years working as a professional driver.
We hope you have found some road trip inspiration from these suggestions of place to visit near Melbourne by car. If you are exploring South Australia, check out 5 fantastic road trips we did last year.
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