Trips Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant and exciting city situated on the banks of the Yarra River in Victoria, Australia. Home to various attractions, culture, art, entertainment and beautiful natural scenery, Melbourne is an ideal destination for travellers looking to explore what this iconic city offers.

What to know about Melbourne

Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, is one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the world. It’s known for its lively arts and culture scene, stunning architecture, fantastic food, and love for sports. It is a constantly evolving city, with new experiences and attractions for visitors to discover. Here are some things you should know about Melbourne before you visit:

Weather: Like most cities in Australia, Melbourne has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is from December to February when the weather is most pleasant.

Getting around: Melbourne has an excellent public transportation system, which includes trains, trams, and buses. Visitors can purchase a myki pass, which allows them to use all three modes of transportation.

Food: Melbourne is a foodie’s paradise, with diverse cuisine worldwide. From delicious Asian street food to fine dining, there is something for everyone.

Attractions: Melbourne has something for everyone, including art galleries, museums, and cultural festivals. Popular attractions include Federation Square, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and the National Gallery of Victoria.

Sports: Melbourne is known as the sporting capital of Australia, and for good reason. The city hosts major sporting events such as the Australian Open tennis tournament and the Formula One Grand Prix.

Day trips: Visitors can also take day trips from Melbourne to explore the beautiful surrounding areas. From the stunning coastal scenery of the Great Ocean Road to the wine region of the Yarra Valley, there is so much to discover.

In conclusion, Melbourne is a fascinating city that offers so much to visitors. Whether you’re a foodie, sports enthusiast, or culture lover, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your bags and venture out to Melbourne for an experience of a lifetime.

Types of Trips Available

Melbourne is a city that boasts a wide range of trip options for visitors to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed outdoor excursion, a cultural immersion, or a gastronomic delight, there’s a trip tailored for you.

For those seeking nature and wildlife encounters, trips to Phillip Island, the Yarra Valley, and Mornington Peninsula are great ideas. These areas offer beautiful coastal scenery, coastal drives with stunning views, and the opportunity to witness some of Australia’s unique wildlife. You can experience the famous Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, head to Healesville Sanctuary and spot native animals, or explore the idyllic beaches of the Mornington Peninsula.

Wine connoisseurs can enjoy a wine-tasting tour in the Yarra Valley, a renowned wine region with rolling hills and stunning vineyards. Other exploring areas include the Dandenong Ranges or a cheese-tasting time in the Yarra Valley.

Vto catch natural habitats are up-close. Adventurers can travel down the Great Ocean Road and witness natural wonders such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and stunning coastal views. Visitors head to Wilsons Promontory or Moonlit Sanctuary. Or, to see natural habitats up close, head to the Grampians National Park for an immersive eco-tour or a hike up Halls Gap.

Melbourne also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with yearly festivals and events. Visitors can attend the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Melbourne Fringe Festival or explore the city’s street art and laneway culture.

Sports enthusiasts can experience Melbourne’s sporting culture by attending an Australian Football League game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Australian Open Tennis, the Formula One Grand Prix, or other major sporting events.

Phillip Island

Located just two hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a popular destination for tourists seeking stunning coastal views and unique wildlife experiences. This picturesque island, with its tranquil waters and rolling hills, is an ideal location for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

One of the main attractions of Phillip Island is the famous Penguin Parade, where visitors can witness hundreds of little penguins as they waddle from the ocean back to their burrows on land. This spectacular natural phenomenon is a must-see for animal lovers and is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip to Phillip Island.

But penguins are not the only wildlife that can be spotted on the island. Visitors can also head to the Koala Conservation Centre to see these cuddly creatures up close and learn about their unique behaviours and diet. And for those seeking a more thrilling experience, the island off the coast of Victoria is home to the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, which draws visitors worldwide to witness the high-speed action.

Phillip Island is also a great place to soak up some sun and enjoy the outdoors. The island is home to many stunning beaches, including the aptly-named Surfers Point and the famous Cowes Beach. Visitors can relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, or try their hand at water-based activities available on the island, such as surfing, kayaking, or windsurfing.

And for those seeking a taste of local cuisine, Phillip Island boasts various restaurants, cafes, and wineries showcasing the best of Victoria’s produce. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood, enjoy a glass of local wine, or sample some of the region’s famous cheeses perfectly paired with crisp white wine.

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

As you venture outside of Melbourne, two destinations that should be on your list are Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, offering picturesque scenery, outdoor activities, and delicious food and wine.

Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, with over 80 wineries set amongst rolling hills and lush greenery. Visitors can take a wine tour by bus, bike, or hot air balloon and enjoy tastings of some of the best wines in Victoria. But wine isn’t the only thing Yarra Valley has to offer – visitors can also indulge in locally sourced cheeses, chocolates, and other delights at the area’s many farm gates and food markets.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, Yarra Valley has plenty of options. The Warburton Trail offers a scenic and relatively easy bike ride with beautiful views of the Yarra River and the surrounding hills. Visitors can also go hot air ballooning, horse riding, or hiking in the stunning Dandenong Ranges National Park.

Speaking of Dandenong Ranges, this area outside Melbourne is a nature lover’s paradise, with a wide range of outdoor activities and natural wonders to explore. The park boasts an array of walking and hiking trails, including the 1000 Steps Walk, which offers challenging terrain and beautiful views of the surroundings.

But Dandenong Ranges is not just about hiking – visitors can also explore the charming villages and towns in the area, such as Olinda, Sassafras, and Mount Dandenong. Each city offers unique shopping, dining, and accommodation options, often with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Mornington Peninsula & Brighton Beach

Suppose you’re looking for a day trip from Melbourne that offers a mix of coastal scenery, natural wonders, and urban delights. In that case, the Mornington Peninsula and Brighton Beach are must-visit locations.

Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula is a scenic coastal region that boasts pristine beaches, stunning coastal views, and an abundance of immersive experiences for all types of travellers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day at the beach, an adventure-filled hike in the lush national park, or a wine-tasting tour in the rolling hills, Mornington Peninsula has something for everyone.

One of the region’s highlights is the picturesque seaside town of Sorrento, which offers a charming blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Visitors can stroll along the quaint streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline from the pier. For a truly memorable experience, dip in the crystal-clear waters of Port Phillip Bay or go on a dolphin-watching tour to get up close and personal with these fantastic creatures.

Another must-see location on your Mornington Peninsula trip is the Moonlit Sanctuary, a natural habitat that houses over 200 Australian wildlife species, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and echidnas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, learn about the organisation’s conservation efforts, and even get to hand-feed some animals.

After a day of exploring the natural wonders of Mornington Peninsula, head to Brighton Beach for a taste of Melbourne’s urban flair. This iconic beach is known for its colourful changing sheds, making it an excellent photo opportunity. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque boardwalk, soak in the sun on the sandy beaches, or explore the nearby cafes and restaurants to taste Melbourne’s diverse culinary scene.

Mount Buller

Mount Buller is a ski resort in the stunning Victorian Alps, just a few hours away from Melbourne. Known for its powdery snow, scenic views, and abundant winter activities, Mount Buller is a must-visit destination for ski enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

With over 80 kilometres of ski trails, Mount Buller offers an incredible skiing and snowboarding experience for all skill levels. From beginners to experts, there are plenty of trails to explore, each with a unique challenge and breathtaking views. The resort also offers a range of skiing and snowboarding lessons, so you can brush up on your skills or learn something new.

But Mount Buller isn’t just for skiing and snowboarding. There are plenty of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, tobogganing, and snowmobiling. The resort also offers nighttime skiing, so you can hit the slopes after the sun goes down and experience the mountain in a new way.

Mount Buller offers plenty of cozy accommodations and après-ski options when you’re not on the slopes. From luxurious lodges to quaint beds and breakfasts, plenty of options suit every taste and budget. After a long day on the mountain, relax by the fireplace with a warm drink or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the resort’s restaurants.

But Mount Buller isn’t just a winter destination. The resort transforms into a hiking and mountain biking paradise during the warmer months. Take in the stunning views of the alpine landscape, spot native wildlife, and relax in the fresh mountain air. With over 100 kilometres of hiking trails and a range of mountain bike trails, there’s plenty to explore.

Puffing Billy

Puffing Billy is an iconic steam train chugging through the Dandenong Ranges’ scenic landscape for over a century. The train was built in 1900 to transport goods and passengers between Upper Ferntree Gully and Gembrook, but it was eventually retired in the 1950s. However, due to its historical significance and popularity among locals and tourists alike, the train was lovingly restored and is now a popular tourist attraction.

A ride on Puffing Billy is a truly unique and nostalgic experience. As you ride through the lush forest, you can admire the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and the charming towns and villages along the way. The train’s brightly coloured carriages, open-sided so you can take in the fresh air and stunning views, are pulled by a powerful steam engine that chugs along the tracks leisurely.

There are several options for Puffing Billy rides, from short scenic routes to longer, more immersive experiences. One popular option is the Lakeside to Gembrook journey, which takes you on a 24-kilometre round trip through the picturesque Emerald Lake Park and along the historic Gembrook railway line. Another famous ride is the Murder Mystery Dinner, where you can play detective while enjoying a delicious three-course meal aboard the train.

But a ride on Puffing Billy is not just about the journey – it’s also a chance to step back in time and learn about the history of the train and the region it travels through. You can visit the Menzies Creek Museum, which showcases a fascinating collection of steam engines, carriages, and other railway memorabilia, or attend one of the many events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Great Train Race or the Steam Festival.

Ballarat and Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is a historic city in the heart of Victoria and is renowned for its gold rush heritage. One of the biggest attractions in the area is Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates the town of Ballarat during the 1850s gold rush era.

Visitors to Sovereign Hill can witness the hustle and bustle of an authentic gold rush town, with costumed interpreters who bring the past to life. You can try gold panning in the creek, witness a gold pour, or even take a guided tour of an underground gold mine. There are also numerous shops, cafes and restaurants to explore, selling everything from handmade candles to traditional sweets.

One of the highlights of Sovereign Hill is the recreated Main Street, which is lined with historic buildings and shops. You can browse the wares at the blacksmith’s, visit the apothecary, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Kids will love dressing up in period costumes and trying their hand at old-fashioned school exercises.

Away from Sovereign Hill, Ballarat is a charming city with many historical sites to explore. You can visit the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, stroll around Lake Wendouree, or discover the city’s rich colonial architecture. The Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional art gallery, is another must-see attraction, with an impressive collection of Australian art.

Great Ocean Road

If you’re looking for one of the most scenic drives in Australia, the Great Ocean Road should be on your list. This 243-kilometre stretch of road southwest of Melbourne is famous for its spectacular coastal scenery, where rugged cliffs plunge into the Southern Ocean and golden beaches stretch as far as the eye can see.

The Great Ocean Road takes you past numerous iconic landmarks, including the Twelve Apostles, a series of limestone stacks rising out of the sea; the picturesque Loch Ard Gorge, offering stunning views of towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters; and the London Arch, a natural arch formed by centuries of wind and wave erosion.

In addition to admiring these natural wonders, the Great Ocean Road also boasts charming towns and villages along the way. You can stop at Apollo Bay, a popular seaside getaway with its long stretch of beautiful beach and bustling cafes and restaurants. Or head to Port Campbell, a quaint fishing village, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and stroll along the pier.

For more adrenaline-fueled activities, there are plenty of opportunities to surf, kayak, or hike along the Great Ocean Walk, which runs parallel to the coast and takes in some of Victoria’s most rugged and scenic landscapes.

Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula is a hidden gem just a short drive from Melbourne. Bellarine is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway with its breathtaking coastline, charming towns, and award-winning wineries.

One of the highlights of Bellarine Peninsula is the historic town of Queenscliff. This quaint seaside town boasts beautiful 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and a lively arts and culture scene. Stroll along the pier, learn about the town’s rich maritime history at the Maritime Museum, or take a scenic ferry ride to Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula.

The Bellarine Peninsula also offers some of Victoria’s best wineries. The region is known for its excellent climate wines and has a long history of producing award-winning pinot noir, chardonnay, and shiraz. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting at one of the many cellar doors dotted along the Bellarine Taste Trail or join a guided tour and let someone else drive.

For nature lovers, the Bellarine Peninsula is home to several stunning natural attractions. The towering cliffs and tranquil beaches of Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove are perfect for a beach day, while the wetlands and bird sanctuary at Lake Connewarre offer a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature photographers.

One of the most unique attractions on the Bellarine Peninsula is the Bellarine Railway. This heritage railway operates a range of steam and diesel trains and takes visitors on a scenic journey through the region’s picturesque countryside. The railway also offers special events throughout the year, including wine and cheese and Santa trains for the kids.

Yarra River Tours

Yarra River Tours offers a unique and exciting way to explore Melbourne and its many attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, a tour along the Yarra River is a fantastic way to discover the city and its surroundings.

One of the most popular Yarra River tours is the Melbourne River Cruise. This two-hour journey takes you through the heart of Melbourne, past iconic landmarks such as Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories and anecdotes about the city’s history, architecture, and culture.

For those who want a more immersive experience, kayaking and paddleboarding tours are available. These tours take you along the river’s calm waters and offer stunning city skyline views. This is a great way to get active and enjoy the outdoors while exploring Melbourne’s many hidden corners.

For those interested in the Yarra Valley wine region, winery tours are available that take you on a scenic journey out of the city and into the heart of the Yarra Valley. Along the way, you’ll visit some of the region’s top wineries, sample delicious wines, and learn about the winemaking process. This is a great way to experience the beautiful countryside and taste some of Australia’s best wines.