Melbourne, the cultural and artistic capital of Australia, is a vibrant city full of endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. However, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience something new, day trips are the perfect way to do so. The surrounding areas of Melbourne offer stunning natural landscapes, quaint small towns, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best day trips you can take from Melbourne to help you plan your next adventure. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wine tasting, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery, we’ve got you covered.

The 5 Best Days Out in Melbourne

1. 2 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour Great Ocean Road and Grampians
2. The Great Ocean Road and Beyond 4 Day Melbourne Adelaide
3. 3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Small Group Tour Via Great Ocean Road and Grampians
4. Coastlines and Culture 2 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Melb to Adelaide
5. 2 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour Melbourne to Melbourne

The 5 Best Days Out in Melbourne

1. 2 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour Great Ocean Road and Grampians

Take a 2-day tour from Melbourne to Adelaide and experience the highlights of the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians. This personalized tour, limited to 24 participants, includes visits to picturesque towns, rainforest beaches, and waterfalls. Look for koalas in the wild and explore the natural beauty and Aboriginal culture of Grampians National Park. Your tour includes one night’s accommodation in the Grampians, two meals, and transportation. Enjoy live commentary from your guide as you visit destinations such as Apollo Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and Loch Ard Gorge. All National Park entry fees are included, as well as breakfast. Food and drinks are not included, nor are personal expenses. The meeting point for this tour is Immigration Museum, located at 400 Flinders St in Melbourne. Join this tour for a memorable two-day adventure from Melbourne to Adelaide.

2. The Great Ocean Road and Beyond 4 Day Melbourne Adelaide

This four-day tour takes you on a spectacular journey along the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes. In the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan, you’ll explore hidden gems and magnificent views that are often missed by those who drive independently. Your knowledgeable guide will take the wheel and lead you to top attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Naracoorte Caves. Limited to just 16 people, this small-group tour ensures personal attention from your guide. Hassle-free transportation from Melbourne to Adelaide is included, as well as three nights of accommodation in a 4-star hotel and meals as per the itinerary. Pickup and drop-off are available at designated meeting points. Gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and evening meals are not included. The tour starts at 8:30 am from the Southern Cross Coach Terminal at Spencer Street in Melbourne.

3. 3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Small Group Tour Via Great Ocean Road and Grampians

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Australia with this 3-day small-group tour from Melbourne to Adelaide via Great Ocean Road and Grampians. Take in stunning coastal views and visit favorite surf beaches, quaint seaside towns, and unique rock formations. Admire the lush rainforests and the extinct volcano and lava fields of Grampians National Park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like koalas, kookaburras, kangaroos, wallabies, and even whales. Your professional guide will lead the way and ensure you have a memorable and informative trip. Enjoy an authentic Aussie barbeque for dinner before arriving in Adelaide. All meals, morning tea, hostel-style accommodation with shared bathroom facilities, and national park entrance fees are included. Hotel drop-off in Adelaide is also provided. The meeting point for this tour is at Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

4. Coastlines and Culture 2 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Melb to Adelaide

Make the most of your journey from Melbourne to Adelaide by embarking on a 2-day tour that includes stops to explore along the way. On day one, you will travel from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road, taking in the scenic coastal views while your guide handles the driving. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, and all transportation is provided, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. After an overnight stay in a hostel-style accommodation, the tour continues through Grampians National Park. Here, you’ll experience the stunning mountainous landscape that features numerous waterfalls, before ultimately arriving in Adelaide. Admission to both the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Parks is included, with the specific itinerary and details provided by your guide along the way. Remember that any meals not indicated and personal expenses are not included in the tour. The tour’s meeting point is the Immigration Museum located at 400 Flinders St in Melbourne. The default pick-up location for this tour is also at the same place.

5. 2 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour Melbourne to Melbourne

Looking for an adventure that goes beyond Melbourne’s city limits? Consider the “2 Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour Melbourne to Melbourne.” This overnight tour takes you on a journey along the picturesque Victorian coastline and into the heart of the rugged Grampians National Park. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about each destination, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap extraordinary photos at sites like Boroka Lookout and Loch Ard Gorge. With pre-arranged accommodation in Halls Gap, all park fees, transportation, and two meals included, you can focus on enjoying the unforgettable natural scenery. The tour also allows for guided bush walking (~2km total). For added convenience, you can take advantage of a free hotel pick-up service in Melbourne city. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience some of Australia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Australia, attracting millions of visitors every year. If you are planning a trip to Melbourne, you may have several questions in your mind. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Melbourne.

1. What is the best time to visit Melbourne?

Melbourne has a moderate climate that makes it an ideal destination to visit year-round. However, the best time to explore Melbourne is during the months of March to May or September to November. During spring and autumn, the weather is mild, and the crowds are low, making it the perfect time to indulge in outdoor activities, including sightseeing, dining, and shopping. In summers, the temperature rises, and the city gets crowded with tourists, while in winters, the temperature drops, and the city becomes less lively.

2. How can I get around Melbourne?

Melbourne has a well-developed public transport system comprising buses, trains, and trams that connect different parts of the city. The myki card is an affordable and convenient way to access public transportation. You can top up your myki card online or from the designated stores, including 7-Eleven, ticket machines, and myki retail outlets.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a city with a plethora of attractions for everyone. Some of the must-visit tourist spots include:

Federation Square:

Federation Square is a public plaza in the heart of Melbourne, known for its cultural events, exhibitions, and dining options.

Flinders Street Station:

Flinders Street Station is one of the most recognizable architectural landmarks in Melbourne and is located in the heart of the city.

The Royal Botanic Gardens:

The Royal Botanic Gardens spans over 94 acres of land and is the perfect place to escape the hustle-bustle of the city.

Queen Victoria Market:

Queen Victoria Market is a historic and iconic landmark known for its bustling atmosphere, street food, and souvenirs.

National Gallery of Victoria:

The National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest and largest public art museum in Australia and is home to an extensive collection of art and artefacts.

4. What is Melbourne famous for?

Melbourne is famous for many things, including its cultural diversity, beautiful beaches, vibrant art scene, and sports. Besides, Melbourne is renowned for hosting several prestigious events, including the Australian Formula One Grand Prix, Australian Open Tennis Championship, and Melbourne Cup Carnival.

5. Where can I find the best food in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, eateries, and food markets. Some of the best places to eat include:

Chinatown:

Chinatown is a vibrant and bustling area in the heart of the city known for its delicious Chinese, Malaysian, and Vietnamese cuisine.

Flinders Lane:

Flinders Lane is a trendy and hip street lined with several upscale restaurants and cafes that offer an eclectic mix of global cuisines.

Laneways:

Melbourne’s laneways are dotted with several hidden cafes and restaurants that serve delicious food and offer a unique dining experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, famous for its laneways, street art, and coffee culture. As the cultural capital of Australia, there is an abundance of things to see and do here. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Melbourne.

1. Take a Tour to Discover the City

Taking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Melbourne. There are numerous tours available, including walking tours, bike tours, and bus tours. They can take you to some of the best spots for sightseeing, food, and culture. Some of the most popular tours include:

• Free Walking Tours: These tours take you through Melbourne’s iconic landmarks, including Federation Square, Hosier Lane, and more. The tours run every day and are free, but tips are appreciated.
• Bicycle Tours: A fun and active way to explore the city. You can join a group or take a private tour to discover bike-friendly paths, hidden alleyways, and parks.
• Food Tours: Get a taste of Melbourne’s exciting and diverse food scene with a guided food tour. These tours take you to some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and markets.

2. Visit Melbourne’s Best Museums and Art Galleries

Melbourne has a thriving arts and culture scene, and there are many museums and galleries where you can discover more about the city’s history and art. Here are some of the best ones to visit:

• National Gallery of Victoria: The oldest and most visited art museum in Australia. The gallery has an extensive collection of international and Australian art, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Warhol.
• State Library of Victoria: One of the oldest public libraries in Australia, with a beautiful reading room and exhibitions on the history of Victoria.
• Museum Victoria: A natural and cultural history museum with exhibits on dinosaurs, sea life, and Aboriginal culture.

3. Explore Melbourne’s Laneways and Street Art

Melbourne’s laneways are famous for their street art, hidden bars, and restaurants. Here are some of the best laneways to explore:

• Hosier Lane: The most iconic street art location in Melbourne, with constantly changing murals and graffiti.
• Croft Alley: A hidden gem in Chinatown with some of the city’s best street art.
• Degraves Street: A vibrant and bustling laneway with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.

4. Shop at Melbourne’s Markets

Melbourne is home to some of the best markets in Australia, selling everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing. Here are some of the best markets to visit:

• Queen Victoria Market: The largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere, selling fresh produce, meat and seafood, clothing, and souvenirs.
• South Melbourne Market: A bustling indoor market selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, and gourmet food.
• Rose Street Artists’ Market: A weekly market where local artists sell their unique and handmade creations.

5. Relax in Melbourne’s Parks and Gardens

Melbourne has many beautiful parks and gardens where you can relax and unwind. Here are some of the best ones to visit:

• Royal Botanic Gardens: A stunning, world-renowned garden with over 8,500 plant species.
• Fitzroy Gardens: A tranquil garden with beautiful seasonal blooms, a conservatory, and Cook’s Cottage.
• Catani Gardens: A park with beautiful views of Port Phillip Bay and a popular picnic spot for locals.

6. Sample Melbourne’s Coffee Culture

Melbourne is famous for its coffee culture, with specialty coffee shops and cafes on every corner. Here are some of the best coffee shops to visit:

• Patricia Coffee Brewers: A tiny hole-in-the-wall cafe serving some of the best coffee in Melbourne.
• Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters: A spacious, industrial-chic cafe serving sustainably sourced coffee.
• Aunty Peg’s: A coffee roastery and cafe owned by Seven Seeds, offering coffee tastings and workshops.

Conclusion

Melbourne is a beautiful and vibrant city with something for everyone. From coffee shops to art galleries, markets to parks, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Melbourne. Use this guide to plan your next visit and make the most of your time as a tourist in this exciting city.