Weekend getaways from Melbourne: 22 best for 2024
Weekend getaways from Melbourne are a plenty, as Victoria has many different experiences on offer. Explore historic towns, immerse yourself in nature and eat your way around the state.
Here are the best weekend getaways from Melbourne and some day trip ideas), to inspire you to hit the road.
Sometimes you just gotta get out of the city.
See some ocean vistas. Make friends with ferns in lush rainforests. Chase waterfalls. Visit charming country towns. Stare at cows in a paddock. Whatever.
Melbourne is one of the most interesting cities in Australia and it’s also a great base for exploring the incredibly compact state of Victoria.
I’ve lived in Melbourne for years and regularly take the chance to stretch my legs around regional Victoria.
And why not? On any one of these weekend getaways from Melbourne you can soak in hot springs, walk through fantastic landscapes, get up close to wildlife, dine at renowned restaurants, swim in pristine oceans and if you’re lucky, even see snow.
If you’re itching to get out of the city and immerse yourself in nature or just eat some really great food, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some of the best day trips from Melbourne.
There’s also a few options that are further afield, perfect for a weekend getaway. You might want to plan one of these trips around seeing autumn leaves or even the Aurora Australis in Victoria.
Best weekend getaways from Melbourne
This guide to the best getaways from Melbourne will cover:
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Weekend getaways from Melbourne: 1 hour away
Australian infrastructure is rather – ahem – underwhelming.
As such, you’ll see many self-drive trips from Melbourne on this list.
If you don’t own a car, we recommend using Rental Cars to search for a good deal. You can also pick up a car at Melbourne airport when you arrive – it might be preferable as there’s no trainline into the city, just a bus.
If you’d prefer not to rent a car, I’ve suggested some Melbourne day tours where available. You’ll also find some day trips from Melbourne by train, which I thoroughly recommend – and even a couple by ferry!
1. You Yangs Regional Park
The You Yangs are one of the best day trips from Melbourne you can take if you want to walk through beautiful nature, but don’t want to travel too far from the city.
This park pulls in walkers, bikers and horse riders, who flock to its granite peaks.
Flinders Peak and Big Rock have panoramic views out the Melbourne on a clear day. Depending on where you are on the day, you may be able to see nearby Geelong, too.
Lace up your walking boots, bring your bike or pack a picnic, to enjoy at one of nine designated picnic spots.
For more, check out these top day hikes from Melbourne.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: Just under an hour from the city centre
Can you get there by train? No
2. Organ Pipes National Park
Once a volcano, it’s the basalt columns that give this park its name.
Huge quantities of molten lava were ejected from volcanoes a short distance away and flowed over the plains, forming these columns, which resemble organ pipes.
All this happened over a million years ago, so you’re now safe to drive out to the park, walk down a short but very steep hill to examine the stone columns, or enjoy a picnic with picturesque views.
Traditional Owners: The Wurundjeri People
Distance from Melbourne: Around 40 mins
Can you get there by train? No
3. Mornington Peninsula
One of the best weekend getaways from Melbourne is this pretty peninsula.
Curling east of the city, it’s famous for its wineries, restaurants and the colourful beach boxes that line its strips of sand.
Head here for decent beaches, good food and relaxation.
Traditional Owners: The Bunurong People
Distance from Melbourne: So close! Around an hour’s drive from the CBD, a mere 75 kilometres.
Can you get there by train? You can get to Brighton by train, but it’s easiest to get around using a car.
Things to do on the Mornington Peninsula
- Head to Arthurs Seat – this is the highest point of the peninsula, which you can access via cable car. Head a little further in to explore the gardens and keep a look out for William Rickett’s fantastic sculptures.
- Soak in the Peninsula Hot Springs – unwind with a good, long soak at the spectacular hot springs, followed by a picnic.
- Go strawberry picking – in the warmer months, you can pick strawberries at Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm and eat the wares afterwards!
- Picnic in a sculpture park – pack a basket and head to the McClelland Gallery, where you can take in the strange and beautiful sculptures.
- Dine out at Doot Doot Doot – here’s one for the foodies. Located at Jackalope Hotel, this hatted restaurant has a five course tasting menu and overlooks Willow Creek Vineyard.
4. Kyneton & Hanging Rock Reserve
If you’re keen on weekend getaways from Melbourne that mix nature with history, here’s one for you.
Kyneton is located in Victoria’s Spa Country and has a great food scene.
Nearby Hanging Rock may sound familiar, as its the setting of a famous Australian novel, 1975 movie and recent television show (Picnic at Hanging Rock).
Walk to the top of the rock to take in the views of the surrounding region.
Traditional Owners: The Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples
Distance from Melbourne: It’s a little over an hour to both the Hanging Rock Summit Walk and Kyneton from the centre of Melbourne
Can you get there by train? It takes just over an hour to get to Kyneton along the Bendigo line. Hanging Rock is accessible via car.
Things to do in Kyneton & Hanging Rock Reserve
- Eat your way along Piper Street – after a great souvenir or some good eats? Head to vibrant Piper Street and have a good poke around the vintage and boutique goods on offer.
- Climb Hanging Rock – Hanging Rock is a semi-challenging hike (straight up), that will reward you with some magnificent views. Entry is $10 for a car, $4 if you’re on foot. Try not to slip into the space-time continuum on your way down (a joke only those who have read the unpublished last chapter of Picnic at Hanging Rock will understand. Don’t read it. Really. It’ll ruin the entire book).
- Walk around Hanging Rock with a llama – take a three hour stroll around the dramatic rock with a trusty llama in tow.
- Check out Kyneton Museum – located on Piper Street, this cute little museum is a National Trust building with changing exhibitions.
- Explore nearby Woodend and the Macedon Ranges – Woodend is a small and charming town nearby and the Ranges offer some magnificent bushwalks. There’s enough to see you planning many more day trips from Melbourne to this part of Victoria.
5. Dandenong Ranges
This is one of the best short trips from Melbourne.
The Dandenongs as they’re know, are a short drive east of Melbourne’s city centre.
There’s beautiful gardens to explore, plenty of walks and if you’re lucky, you might see some native Australian wildlife.
NOTE: There is confusingly also a suburb called Dandenong, in Melbourne’s east. If you’re driving, pop one of the local towns into your GPS like Olinda or Sassafras.
Traditional Owners: The Wurundjeri People
Distance from Melbourne: Around an hour’s drive east of the city – 45 kilometres.
Can you get there by train? You can take a train to most points in the Dandenongs (Belgrave, Lilydale), but a car is the best option.
Things to do in the Dandenong Ranges
- Take a ride on Puffing Billy – one of the most popular highlights of the area is the old steam train that runs from Belgrave to Gembrook. It’s highly popular so make sure you book your ticket in advance.
- Visit the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens – This beautiful park is located right near the town of Olinda. I saw an echidna wandering around it, once.
- Climb the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk – a 3 kilometre trail meant to depict the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea, where soldiers fought and died during WWII.
- Take in the view from the Mount Dandenong Observatory – say hi to Melbourne from the top of Mt Dandenong.
Explore other things to do in the Dandenong Ranges.
6. The Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s best known wine regions, making this an ideal destination for vino enthusiasts. It’s a top destination for weekend getaways from Melbourne.
As you enter the picturesque valley, with its dense green bushlands, rolling mountains and sprawling vineyards, it’s hard to believe somewhere like this is accessible on day trips from Melbourne.
Alongside its renowned wine scene, there’s plenty of other exciting things to do, revolving around nature and food. Ace.
Traditional Owners: The Wurundjeri People
Distance from Melbourne: 65 kilometres, around an hour on wheels, so it also makes for an easy short break from Melbourne.
Can you get there by train? You can catch a train to Lilydale Station and take a bus to Healesville.
Things to do in the Yarra Valley
- Pop into vineyards – there are some great wineries in this region, particularly those producing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
- Visit Healesville Sanctuary – Here’s a chance to see Australia fauna up close. Grab a ticket here.
- Take a balloon ride over the valley – if you truly want to have a memorable time, spend a morning drifting lazily in a hot air balloon over the valley, followed by a champagne brekky.
- Pig out on chocolate – at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. Yum.
- Go white-water kayaking – grade 2 rocky rapids await you in the Yarra Valley. Secure your spot in advance.
- Chase waterfalls – you can see quite a few waterfalls on day trips from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley. Check out Olinda Falls, Sherbrooke Falls or for something a little different, the water cascades at Maroondah Dam.
Here are a few other suggestions for things to do in the Yarra Valley.
Weekend getaways from Melbourne: under 2 hours away
If you don’t mind spending a bit of extra time in the car, these destinations are not too far from Melbourne, easily accessible in a day trip (but better for a weekend or midweek getaway).
7. Geelong
Geelong is a waterfront city, with a strong arts culture and beach scene.
It’s not too far from the Victorian capital, making it a popular destinaton for weekend getaways from Melbourne.
Its historic waterfront is really lovely in the summer and to be honest, no less fun in the winter. You can walk along the esplanade and count the iconic Baywalk Bollard characters you run into along the way.
Or head into the city and pick your way around Little Malop Street for really lovely cafes, restaurants, bars and some impressive street art.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: It’s an hour’s drive along the M1 from Melbourne to Geelong.
Can you get there by train? Yes, there’s a train line running out to Geelong from Southern Cross Station. You can also catch a ferry between the two cities. This relaxing mode of transport makes for a really nice short break from Melbourne.
Things to do in Geelong
- Explore the Geelong Waterfront – full of cafes, restaurants and art, the waterfront is a highlight of Geelong.
- Visit the Geelong Gallery – art and culture fans should head to this gallery to see what’s on.
- See Geelong from above – secure a spot on a hot air balloon, for picturesque views of this lovely city.
- Visit the National Wool Museum – check out the historic museum, then lift your spirits at the gin distillery next door.
- Dine and drink around Little Malop Street – try The Continental, The Aborist and Geelong Cellar Door on for size.
8. Bellarine Peninsula
While not as popular as the Mornington Peninsula in the east, the Bellarine Peninsula has a lot to offer visitors, with far less crowds to contend with.
Pop into wineries, eat delicious food, swim in clear waters and walk through lovely small towns.
This underrated region is perfect for no-fuss day trips from Melbourne.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: An hour to just under two hours, depending on where you’re heading.
Can you get there by train? You can catch a train to Geelong from Southern Cross Station and then a bus to Queenscliff. Ferries run between Portarlington and Melbourne. It’s easiest to drive around however, as many of the best things to do on the Bellarine are only accessible by car.
Things to do on the Bellarine
- Dine out on the Q Train – this moving restaurant train travels through the heart of the Bellarine, between Drysdale and Queenscliff. Book your dining experience.
- Visit a dog-friendly distillery – The Whiskery welcomes pooches and their humans, serving up lunch alongside gin and whisky-based cocktails.
- Take a hike – lace up your boots and hit that trails at Brisbane Ranges National Park
- Or jam along to jazz – drink, dine and dance on the Blues Train.
- Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre – Learn about and see the art of this region’s first peoples.
- Basil’s Farm – take a long lazy lunch at this beautiful winery, just outside of Queenscliff.
- Get up close to dolphins and marine life – swim, snorkle and surf with a certified eco-tourism experience.
- Visit Queenscliff Harbour – and catch the ferry across the bay to Sorrento.
- Head to Point Lonsdale Lighthouse – take in views along the coast to Ocean Grove and Cape Schanck.
9. Torquay
This seaside town has a lot to offer.
Not only is it the gateway to one of Australia’s most spectacular drives, the Great Ocean Road – it’s a destination worth visiting in its own right.
Especially if you love to surf.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: Around an hour and a half travel time by car.
Can you get there by train? You can catch the Geelong line from South Cross Station and alight in Marshall and get a bus from there. It’s not the best option, as usual, car is easiest.
Things to do in Torquay
- Hang ten – the beaches around here boast some of the best waves in Australia. Beginner? No problem. Book lessons with an experienced instructor.
- Take to the skies – I can’t think of a more picturesque destination in Victoria to go tandem skydiving. Secure a spot in advance
- Hit the beach – seems kinda self-explanatory I suppose! Torquays got a few beaches as well as some lovely rockpools.
- Time your visit with the Rip Curl Pro – the biggest surfing event in Australia takes place every April.
- Hop along to Blackman’s Brewery – quench your thirst with a tasting paddle or take a brewery tour.
- Lace up your walking boots – trek along the Surf Coast Walk. The entire walk stretches for a hefty 44 kilometres, but you can walk shorter sections if visit on day trips from Melbourne. Check the map for more information.
10. Bendigo
Bendigo is one of Victoria’s gold rush era cities, home to many historic buildings.
It’s a cultural highlight of the state, with many events taking place here. There’s also a stellar art gallery, which runs world-class exhibitions.
This is also one of the easiest day trips from Melbourne by train, making it an all the more appealing place to visit.
Traditional Owners: The Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples
Distance from Melbourne: 152kms, around an hour and 44 minute drive in the car.
Can you get there by train? Yes, through a dedicated train line leaving from Southern Cross Station. It takes just under two hours to reach Bendigo by train.
Things to do in Bendigo
- Take a tram tour – Bendigo has a strong tram history like Melbourne. Jump onto one of the colourful trams which intersect the city to learn more.
- Pop into the Art Gallery – this is one of Australia’s most venerated galleries and it receives many impressive exhibitions in its own right. Grab a delicious croissant at Harvest across the road, before you enter.
- Visit the Golden Dragon Museum – during Victoria’s Gold Rush era of the 1850’s, many Chinese immigrants moved Down Under to try their luck. This museum pays homage to them.
- Get a taste of gold rush history – in Bendigo and nearby small towns like Maldon, a town of this era that’s been almost perfectly preserved.
- Wine and dine at Chancery Lane – this colourful laneway is home to many of Bendigo’s best bars, restaurants and cafes. Pop into The Dispensary or El Gordo‘
- Feast at Masons of Bendigo – for something special, book a table at this top-notch restaurant in the city centre
- Explore more things to do in Bendigo.
| Insider Tip: Try visiting this city during one of its festivals, like the Bendigo Writers Festival. |
11. Ballarat
Ballarat is a regional city not far from Melbourne and an excellent place to head to if you want to learn a little bit more about Victoria’s gold rush history.
As far as activities go, there’ll be something of interest for couples, solo travellers and families.
Discover other fantastic regional cities in Australia, worth visiting.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: 116 kilometres, so it’s around 1 hour 25 minute drive to Ballarat.
Can you get there by train? Yes. There are regular trains running between Ballarat and Melbourne, which leave from Southern Cross Station. It takes around an hour and half to get there by train. One of the few easy day trips from Melbourne by train, along with Bendigo.
Things to do in Ballarat
- Head out to Sovereign Hill – an open air museum depicting life during the gold rush. Skip the line and buy your ticket in advance. Even better, visit in winter to experience their Winter Wonderlights festival.
- Visit the Botanic Gardens – Ballarat has gorgeous botanic gardens. A highlight is ‘Prime Minister Avenue’, a pathway lined with busts of every PM Australia has had.
- Drop into Ballarat Art Gallery – this is the oldest regional art gallery in Australia and gets some pretty impressive exhibitions, as well as boasting a really neat permanent collection.
- Step back in time at Krayl Castle – this open-air museum will transport you back to the Middle Ages. Book your ticket.
- Visit Lal Lal Falls – these falls are located about 20 minutes from Ballarat and are said to be the birthplace of Bunjil, an ancestral being in local Aboriginal lore. Head there in winter or early spring for optimal flow and in the afternoon/evening for photos.
12. Daylesford & Hepburn Springs
Looking for romantic weekend getaways from Melbourne?
Enter Victoria’s Spa Country.
This area is ideal for couples as there’s something inherently lovey-dovey about it! Mind you, I’ve visited here with friends and my mother, so it’s certainly not a destination for romance alone.
Traditional Owners: The Dja Dja Wurrung People
Distance from Melbourne: 112kms from the CBD, around 1hr and 20 mins by car.
Can you get there by train? Yes. You can catch a bus onto Daylesford from Ballan Station, which is on the Ballarat line.
Things to do in Daylesford & Hepburn Springs
- Soak all your worries away at the Hepburn Bathhouse – try the full spa experience at the Bathhouse.
- Go boutique shopping in Daylesford – Daylesford is full of interesting little shops, worth checking out.
- Stuff yourself full of delicious food – eat your way through the wares in both Daylesford and Hepburn. I recommend Cliffy’s Emporium, Wombat Hill House, Daylesford Cider Co and Sault for a special occasion.
- Explore nearby Clunes – located half an hour away from Daylesford, this historic town front often pops up in movies (like Mad Max and Ned Kelly). It’s also Australia’s only Book Town and holds a yearly literature festival.
13. Warburton
Warburton is one of the city’s best kept secrets and the perfect weekend getaway from Melbourne.
While people tend to head on to the Dandenong Ranges, Healesville or elsewhere in the Yarra Valley, Warburton packs a bunch for nature enthusiasts.
Hike, bike and take in the sights of this lovely town.
Traditional Owners: The Wurundjeri People
Distance from Melbourne: Just under an hour and half drive from Melbourne
Can you get there by train? Catch a train to Lilydale, then the 683 bus to Warburton. It’s around a two-hour journey, so car is better. Or you can pedal along the Rail Trail from Lilydale to Warburton, if you feel so inclined!
Things to do in Warburton
- Visit in autumn – this town has beautiful autumn foliage, so a well-timed trip could work in your favour.
- Bring your bike – pedal to the metal along the Warburton Rail Trail.
- See tall trees – at the Warburton Redwood Forest.
- Check out La La Falls – it’s an easy 3.2km walk through forest to these lovely falls.
14. French Island
Distance from Melbourne: Roughly 1.5 hours from Melbourne.
Can you get there by train? You can catch a train from Melbourne’s CBD to Frankston and then change to travel on to Stony Point. From there, it’s a 15 minute ferry ride to the island.
Things to do on French Island
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Melbourne where chances are, you won’t see another soul for hours, then this is the destination for you.
This remote island (located near Phillip Island) is home to both a national park and marine national park.
There’s an abudance of wildlife and only 120 residents living on the island (Kylie Minogue was once one of them!).
- Bring your bike – or hire one from the general store.
- Go for a hike – to spot wildlife and wildflowers.
- See if you can spot local koalas – chilling in eucalyptus trees.
- Visit the chicory kiln – a historic relic from the days before instant coffee.
If you’re camping, you can stay at Fairhaven Campground, on the island’s west coast. It’s managed by Parks Victoria and you’ll need to secure a permit to stay.
You can also stay at the local general store/cafe.
Discover the best things to do on French Island.
2+ hours weekend getaways from Melbourne
You’ll spend a little more time in the car, but these getaways from Melbourne are worth going the distance.
In fact in some instances, the road trip is part of the fun, as you curl alongside the ocean and through mountainous backcountry.
15. The Great Ocean Road
Stretching from the towns of Torquay to Allansford, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic drives in Australia – indeed the world!
Built by returned soldiers from the Great War, it’s dedicated to those killed in WW1, making it the longest War Memorial in the world.
Today you can travel along the southern tip of mainland Australia and take in the many sights along the way.
Sections of the road are doable in day trips from Melbourne, but it’s worth taking a weekend to drive the road properly.
For more, check out our extensive guide to the Great Ocean Road.
Traditional Owners: The Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar and the Gunditjmara Peoples
Distance from Melbourne: The official start of the Great Ocean Road (near Torquay) is 103 kilometres from the centre of Melbourne, or around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The entire road spans 243 kilometres. Take the M1, which bypasses Geelong for quicker access.
Can you get there by train? You can’t travel the road itself by train, but you can access places along the road (like Apollo Bay and Torquay) by train or coach.
Things to do on the Great Ocean Road
- See the Twelve Apostles – limestone stacks along the dramatic cliff face.
- Visit the Cape Otway Rainforest – a beautiful rainforest along the road, with plenty of wildlife to see.
- Spot native Australian wildlife – this award-winning eco-tourism experience is located in Apollo Bay. Secure your ticket.
- Check out the lighthouse at Airys Inlet – the setting for Aussie TV show ‘Round the Twist’.
- Soak in hot springs – at Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool.
| Insider Tip: The Great Ocean Road is a lot quieter in the cooler months, but no less beautiful. In fact, winter travel in Australia is very underrated. |
16. Phillip Island
Phillip Island is a popular day trip from Melbourne, but those wanting more can easily take two days to explore what the region has to offer.
The main drawcard are the cute fairy penguins that toddle up the Penguin Parade after a long, hard day’s fishing.
However, there’s also beautiful beaches, lovely wineries and plenty of other sites to experiences.
Traditional Owners: The Bunurong People
Distance from Melbourne: 142 kilometres. It takes just under two hours to get to Phillip Island from Melbourne.
Can you get there by train? Not by train. Getting to Phillip Island via car is the easiest way.
Things to do on Phillip Island
- Penguin Parade – the most popular attraction on the island by far is seeing the Little Penguins waddle their way ashore for the night. It can book out so make sure you get your ticket well in advance.
- The Nobbies – check out The Nobbies for dramatic views south into the ocean.
- Churchill Island – visit this nearby island to check out its historic farm and local wildlife. Book your entry.
- Take a cruise – see seals in the wild at Australia’s largest fur seal colony. Book a spot on a tour.
- Panny’s Chocolate Factory – those with a sweet tooth will enjoy visiting this chocolate factory, where you can take a tour or stop for a delicious treat.
17. Lake Mountain
Here’s a pretty exciting option for a weekend getaway from Melbourne – time it right and you may get to see snow!
Lake Mountain is the most accessible part of the Alpine region from the city.
In the warmer months, the area is popular with cyclists and hikers.
In the cooler months, it turns into a winter wonderland, with all kinds of snow play on offer.
Traditional Owners: The Wurundjeri and Taungurung Peoples
Distance from Melbourne: 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Can you get there by train? No, only car. As it’s a resort, it costs to enter. The prices change seasonally – check their website before you go.
Things to do at Lake Mountain
- Bring your bike – or hire one there for an off-road or road cycling adventure.
- Go for a hike – on nature walks or tackle some mountain trails.
- Take a tube run – down the 100m inflated tube or zip through the treetops on the flying fox.
- Drive through Black Spur – technically something to do on the way to Lake Mountain, this is a short but scenic road trip in Australia.
- All sorts of snowplay – go cross-country skiing, tobogganing down a slope or don the snowshoes for a winter walk.
3+ hour weekend getaways from Melbourne
You can take day trips from Melbourne to explore these areas if you’re short on time, although they are probably best visited over a midweek or weekend getaway.
18. The King Valley
This region of Victoria is one of my favourite Melbourne weekend getaways.
Sweeping views, gourmet food and delicious Italian wine is what you expect from this part of the state, with a side of bushranger history.
Although it’s not quite as accessible via a day trip from Melbourne as the Yarra Valley, this wine region will delight – particularly if you’re a fan of prosecco.
Traditional Owners: The Yorta Yorta and the Taungurung Peoples
Distance from Melbourne: It’s 260 kilometres to Milawa, which is around where the Prosecco Road starts. Expect a three hour drive to get there.
Can you get there by train? No, driving is the best and easiest option.
Things to do in the King Valley
- Drive down Prosecco Road to sample the wares on offer – an influx of Italian wineries led to the development of the sparkling wine Prosecco in this region. Check out Brown Brothers, Dal Zotto and Pizzini’s, to quench your thirst.
- Explore the Ned Kelly Trail – learn about Australia’s most notorious bushranger and others who made their mark on this part of the state.
- Pedal to Produce – take an easy cycling tour, to sample the region’s best gourmet food.
- Stock up on cheese – at the Milawa Cheese Company. They offer free tastings!
19. Benalla
Another highlight of Victoria’s High Country, this enigmatic town is a mecca for art lovers.
Not only is it home to over 60 murals by renowned street artists, it holds its own yearly street art festival, where visitors can watch painters and muralists at work.
Traditional Owners: The Yorta Yorta People
Distance from Melbourne: It’s around a 210 kilometre trip, taking just over two hours to get there. Easy!
Can you get there by train? Yes! Hop on the train to Albury via Seymour from Southern Cross Station.
Things to do in Benalla
- Attend the Wall to Wall Festival – Benalla’s annual Street Art Festival covers a weekend in April, where artists from all over the world descend upon the town to cover its walls with bright, colourful murals.
- Stroll through the Benalla Art Gallery – this beautiful gallery is housed in a modernist building, within the town’s botanic gardens.
- Check out a silo art trail – one of Victoria’s two silo art trails is located in this region – Benalla is the gateway to this particular public gallery, which takes under two hours to complete.
- Visit the Winton Wetlands – one of the works of art on the trail is located in these wetlands, so why not make a day of it?
20. Wilsons Promontory National Park
‘The Prom’ as it is colloquially known, is home to dense bushland, amazing walks, an array of wildlife and gorgeous beaches that will utterly put Melbourne’s metro beaches to shame.
It makes for an ideal weekend getaway from Melbourne for those aching for a little peace and quiet – you’ll find just that in this part of the state.
Distance from Melbourne: 230 kilometres, so it takes around three hours to drive there by car.
Can you get there by train? No, car or by tour group.
Things to do in the Prom
- Stroll along Squeaky Beach – The Prom’s most famous beach is named so, because rounded grains of quartz make a squeaking sound when you wander across the sand.
- Go for a bushwalk – if you’re a hiker, The Prom will keep you busy, with hikes such as Tongue Point Walk. Serious walkers will want to do the Great Prom Walk, a 35.5 or 52.8 kilometre route that can take up to four days.
- See Australian wildlife in the… well, wild – if you want to see Australian fauna in their natural habitat, here’s your chance to do so.
- Take a dip in the water – this Marine National Park has 17 kilometres of protected mainland coastline and is home to all kinds of marine life. Make sure you check which beaches are best to swim in before you go.
21. The Alpine Region
Cooler weather isn’t an excuse to stay cooped up at home, or limit your trip to the city.
Rug up and get out to Victoria’s beautiful Alpine region. There’s a heap to do in this part of the state, no matter what the weather.
Traditional Owners: The Taungurung People and the Gunaikurnai People
Distance from Melbourne: It’s around 325 kilometres to Bright, one of the biggest towns in the region. It’ll take around three and a half hours to get to the edge of the Alpine Region and another hour or so to drive into the heart of it.
Can you get there by train? There are bus services which will take you to Mount Hotham and Mount Buller during the snow season. However, a car is your best option when navigating this part of Victoria.
Things to do in the Alpine Region
- Get into snow-based activities – head to Mount Hotham, Mount Buffalo, Falls Creek or Mount Buller to snowboard, ski, or nestle up beside a roaring fire with a good book and warm beverage.
- Explore the town of Bright – a cute town within the region, known for its flurry of autumn and spring colours.
- Have a soak in the Onsen Spa in Dinner Plain – soak amongst the snow in this Japanese-inspired outdoor Onsen.
- Drive the Great Alpine Road – another fantastic scenic drive in Victoria, although it can get quite snowy on the road!
22. Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park & the Silo Art Trail
One of the state’s premiere national parks, Gariwerd (its Aboriginal name) is home to some dramatic landscape – great craggy rocks offering spectacular views, bush walks and stacks of waterfalls.
Further afield is the state’s first Silo Art Trail, a must-see for lovers of public art.
It’s pretty hard to see the entire trail in a weekend, but you could see a handful of the giant murals over a one or two day period.
Traditional Owners: The Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Peoples
Distance from Melbourne Around three hours drive (the Silo Art Trail is a bit further out) – around 260 kilometres.
Can you get there by train? No, both are only accessible by car.
Things to do in the Grampians
- Go for a bushwalk/hike – the Grampians are made for walking, with all sorts of trails and hikes available, for many different levels of fitness. One of the most popular walks is The Pinnacle hike.
- Check out the original Silo Art Trail – this region of Melbourne is home to the original Silo Art Trail, starting with artist Guido van Helten painting a now famous mural onto a silo in the small town of Brim.
- Learn about Aboriginal culture at Brambuk – the Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Gariwerd is pretty amazing and well worth a visit.
- Visit MacKenzie Falls – the Grampians is full of spectacular waterfalls and MacKenzie Falls is iconic. The walk there is fairly unchallenging at around 40 mins and there’s a cool lookout as well.
Find out more about road tripping Victoria’s Silo Art Trail.
Where would you go on a weekend getaway from Melbourne?
There you have it – some of the best day trips and weekend getaways from Melbourne. I hope you’re feeling inspired to get out and explore the state of Victoria!
Heading to New South Wales? Explore other weekend getaway ideas.
Great ocean road is the best place to enjoy the holidays on the weekend. The best part is that you can take your own cooked food and take along with you to enjoy at the ocean side.