Multi-Day Trips From Melbourne

November 5, 2026

Some of Victoria’s best country is too far for a comfortable single day. These trips work best with at least one night away.

Great Ocean Road in two or three days

The road runs about 100 km to Torquay, 145 km to Lorne and 190 km to Apollo Bay from the city. The Twelve Apostles are 275 km by the coast road or 220 km by the inland Princes Highway. The coast road averages closer to 60 km/h because of the bends, which tires drivers, so many travellers drive the coast outbound and return inland. A same-day return is about 600 km, and winter days are short, so plan winding sections for daylight. Heavy rain closed parts of the road in January 2026, and a landslip near Fairhaven was reported, so check VicEmergency and VicRoads before you leave. The Great Ocean Road site lays out sample itineraries.

Phillip Island overnight

Staying on the island removes the late drive after the Penguin Parade. Penguins come ashore at sunset, and General Viewing is AUD 34 for adults. Book ahead through the Phillip Island Nature Parks site .

Wilsons Promontory

Parks Victoria runs the Tidal River campground, which is bookable online. Check Parks Victoria for closures and conditions before you travel, since deer control and weather can affect access. Bring water, wear sun protection and leave your plans with someone before walking.

Grampians National Park

The Grampians (Gariwerd) lie to the north-west and are walking country. Check Parks Victoria alerts and fire-danger ratings before you go, and carry plenty of water.

Ballarat

Staying a night in Ballarat lets you see Sovereign Hill without rushing. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, and adult general admission starts from AUD 68. V/Line trains run from Southern Cross Station, and fares are half price until 1 January 2027.

Mornington Peninsula

Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs and Spa are both at Fingal. Bath house entry at Peninsula Hot Springs starts from about AUD 60, and bookings are essential.

Without a car

Ballarat and the Mornington Peninsula are the easiest overnight trips without a car, since V/Line trains serve Ballarat and coach tours reach the peninsula. The Great Ocean Road, Wilsons Promontory and the Grampians suit a rental car or a multi-day coach tour, and public transport is thin once you leave the main towns.

Staying safe

Summer brings bushfire risk from October to February, according to UK government advice. Check the emergency warnings app, avoid walking on days of extreme fire danger and carry a rain shell in any season, since Melbourne weather changes fast.

Booking

Accommodation can be compared on Booking.com .