Melbourne gets the best of both worlds: while it is a vibrant city with its own charm, its location also provides easy access to nearby regional areas that offer different experiences. You don’t have to travel far to trade skyscrapers for surf beaches, eucalyptus forests, tall mountains, and even penguin parades. In this blog, we’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of the 10 best destinations for day trips from Melbourne, with each location delivering a little something for every type of traveller.

Day Trips Within 1.5 Hours from Melbourne CBD

1

Dandenong Ranges National Park: Forest Trails and Hidden Villages

If you want an escape from the city lights and tower blocks, the misty mountains and charming villages of the Dandenong Ranges offer a perfect retreat. It is home to a lush rainforest, numerous cool-climate gardens, and the world’s tallest flowering trees: the mountain ash. It’s a magical green retreat that feels worlds away from city bustle.

Distance from Melbourne: 39 to 42 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? About an hour’s drive by car, or about 1 hour and 15 minutes by public transport

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Drive from Melbourne via M1 and State Route 22
  • By public transport: Take a train from the Southern Cross to Upper Ferntree Gully. From there, hail a cab or take a walk to Dandenong Ranges National Park.

Available Tour:

For those travelling in a small group, Yonder Tours offers a 6-hour tour from central Melbourne (round-trip transport included) to the Dandenong Ranges and William Ricketts Sanctuary. In this tour, you can walk through the serene forest and take a break at a local restaurant for a special gourmet lunch.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • Start with a morning ride on Puffing Billy Railway through the forest.
  • Walk the “1000 Steps” (officially the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk) or explore fern-filled gullies in Sherbrooke Forest within Dandenong Ranges National Park.
  • Relax or picnic at the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens with its lakeside boathouse.
  • Finish with lunch or coffee in one of the quaint villages (Olinda or Kallista) for a bit of local charm.

2

Yarra Valley: Victoria’s Premier Wine Destination

Known as Victoria’s first wine-growing district, the Yarra Valley is also recognised as one of the world’s leading cold-climate wine regions. But beyond the wines, it also boasts a vibrant food scene. Think fruit orchards, olive groves, artisanal cheese, local produce, and restaurants using regional ingredients. A day isn’t enough to explore everything in the region. However, even a short visit will give you a taste of its charm, making it one of the most popular Melbourne day trips for food and wine lovers.

Distance from Melbourne: About 35 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Make your way onto the Eastern Freeway and travel towards Ringwood. Then, drive onto the Maroondah Highway towards Lilydale. From there, you can choose where in the Yarra Valley to explore.
  • By public transport: Ride a train from Melbourne Central to Lilydale Station. Then, catch a McKenzie bus to either Yarra Glen or Healesville, or a Ventura bus if you’re heading to Warburton.

Available Tour: 

Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Tours offers full-day wine tours leaving from Melbourne CBD, which include visits to three wineries and an extra stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. They also offer half-day/afternoon and sunset tours, which are ideal for those who prefer a shorter trip.

What You Can Do for a Day:

3

Geelong: The Vibrant Waterfront City

As one of Victoria’s largest cities, Geelong has a lively urban atmosphere. However, it also has its unique, relaxed atmosphere, which differs from that of busier cities like Melbourne. There are plenty of things to do in Geelong that are perfect for laid-back day trips from Melbourne. From wandering along its scenic and bustling waterfront to exploring the restaurants and pubs, it is the kind of place that balances a big-city feel with the relaxed pace of a coastal town.

Distance from Melbourne: 74 to 75 kilometres

How Long Does the Road Trip Take? Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Drive from Melbourne via M1 for the fastest route
  • By public transport: Take the train from Southern Cross, which will take you directly to Geelong Station.

Available Tour: 

Have a chauffeur to drive you around Geelong in a 1966 Mustang with Mustang & Co. This tour allows you to fully customise your itinerary, or you can simply let your driver take you to some of the best sights in the city.

What You Can Do for a Day:

Day Trips Within 2 Hours From Melbourne CBD

4

Mornington Peninsula: Beaches and Wineries

The Mornington Peninsula is a great all-rounder for families, couples, or anyone wanting to soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, explore the not-so-hidden rockpools, or sip and relax in the wineries. Here, kids can enjoy wildlife parks and seaside playgrounds, while adults can go on wine tours, indulge in local produce, or simply unwind at a beachfront café.

Distance from Melbourne: 68 to 74 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the route.

Available Tour:

Explore Australia offers a variety of tours for those who want to experience different sides of the Peninsula. From Food & Wine Tours that take you to the region’s top wineries to Sightseeing Tours that showcase the Peninsula’s stunning coastal landscapes and iconic attractions, there’s something for every type of traveller.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • Start at Frankston for a coastal stroll and morning coffee by the pier.
  • Head to Rye for beach time, maybe a dip or a relaxed lunch.
  • Continue to Portsea for scenic coastal views and seaside vibes.
  • Explore the historic village of Sorrento or simply catch the sunset on a Searoad Ferries cruise to Queenscliff.

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Drive from Melbourne via the M1 (Monash Freeway) to EastLink, and then onto the Peninsula Link (M11) / Mornington Peninsula Freeway.
  • By public transport: Take a regular metropolitan train from Melbourne down the Frankston railway line to Frankston Station. From there, there are buses that will take you to different towns on the Peninsula.

5

Torquay: The Surf Capital of Australia

The coastal town of Torquay is a paradise for surf lovers and beachgoers. It is known as the home of Bells Beach, where the annual Rip Curl Pro world competition is held. It is also the birthplace of world-famous surf brands like Quiksilver and Rip Curl, further cementing its title as Australia’s surf capital. But beyond the waves and the surf breaks, there are other exciting things to do in Torquay that make it worth the trip.

Distance from Melbourne: 103 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? About 1.5 hours by car and 2 hours by public transport.

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Get on M1 in Port Melbourne from Kings Way/Princes Hwy and Exit W5. Then, take the exit toward C134/Torquay/Anglesea/Great Ocean Rd from M1. Continue on Anglesea Rd/C134 and drive to Coombes Rd in Torquay.
  • By public transport: Ride the train from Southern Cross to Geelong Railway Station, where you can hop aboard the bus to Merrijig Dr/Surf Coast Hwy in Torquay.

 

Available Tour:

If you love a good mystery and a bit of adventure, Mystery Picnic with AmazingCo is the perfect way to explore Torquay. This scavenger hunt-style tour combines sightseeing with a puzzle-solving challenge as you solve clues across the town for a prized food to be enjoyed at a secret destination.

What You Can Do for a Day:

6

Queenscliff: A Historic Seaside Village

There are plenty of seaside towns in Victoria, but what makes Queenscliff particularly charming is the well-preserved heritage-listed buildings, stately churches, and grand hotels that give it a distinctive old-world character. Despite being a relatively small town, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Queenscliff, making it perfect for a quick day trip from Melbourne.

Distance from Melbourne: About 106 to 138 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by car, and 2 hours and 30 minutes by public transport

How to Get Here:

  • By car: via M1 and Bellarine Hwy/B110 (fastest route) or via M1, Princes Hwy/A10 and Bellarine Hwy/B110
  • By public transport: Get on the train from Southern Cross to Geelong Railway Station. From there, board a bus to Queenscliff Post Office/Hesse Street.
  • By ferry: Searoad Ferries offers a car and passenger ferry from Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula, crossing Port Phillip Bay. Whether you’re driving on with your car or hopping on as a foot passenger, you can enjoy a 40-minute cruise filled with panoramic bay views, fresh sea breezes, and the chance to spot dolphins, seabirds, and even whales in season.

Available Tour:

For those who prefer an underwater adventure, Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you swim or snorkel with dolphins and Australian fur seals around marine areas, such as Pope’s Eye Marine Park. But if you want to stay dry while still being close to the marine wonders, their Queenscliff Twilight cruise is the perfect option. This tour runs during the summer (subject to availability) and allows you to take in the Southern Port Phillip Bay views at sunset.

What You Can Do for a Day:

7

Daylesford: Australia’s Spa Capital

Daylesford is a lush, tranquil town in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range of Victoria, famous for its healing mineral springs, boutique spas, and serene lakes. Its rich history is tied to the gold rush and its Swiss-Italian heritage, which is visible in its architecture and landscape.

Distance from Melbourne: About 115 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? Approximately 1.5 hours by car and 2 hours by public transport.

How to Get Here:

  • By car: via National Highway M8 and C141
  • By public transport: Ride the train from Southern Cross to Woodend Station. From there, get on a bus to CFA/Bridport St.

Available Tour:

Melbourne Elite Tours offers a Daylesford Private Tour that takes you to the town's iconic landmarks, as well as its charming boutiques, art galleries, and tranquil walking trails. You’ll also be treated to a gourmet multi-course lunch before you head onto the next part of your relaxing and scenic adventure, which involves gin tasting or visiting the Swiss-Italian Lavandula Farm.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • Take in the sights and sounds of nature, enjoy a picnic by the water, or pedal along the scenic trails surrounding Lake Daylesford.
  • Stroll through the shaded paths surrounded by an assortment of flowers, ferns, trees, and many more plant species at the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.
  • Wrap up the day with a warm dip at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, Daylesford’s historic mineral spring bathhouse.

8

Ballarat: The Gold Rush Heritage City

Designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art, Ballarat is renowned for its magnificent architecture, world-class art, and rich cultural scene. Here, history buffs and curious travellers will find plenty that piques their interest. Beyond its rich history, Ballarat also offers beautiful gardens, vibrant markets, and a thriving café and arts scene.

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 116 to 119 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? About 1 hour and 45 minutes

How to Get Here:

  • By car: via National Highway M8
  • By public transport: Get on a train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station.

Tour Available:

Go2000 Sightseeing takes its guests on a quick history tour of Ballarat. In 90 minutes, you’ll get to see Ballarat’s magnificent old-world architecture, statues, and learn about the stories behind them. And for fans of the Dr Blake Mysteries, they also offer tours that will take you around the locations where the series was filmed.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • Travel back in time at Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that delivers an immersive experience from the city’s gold rush era.
  • Visit one of Victoria’s oldest botanical gardens: the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.
  • Explore the social history and cultural impact of the Victorian gold rush in the Eureka Centre Ballarat.

Day Trips Within 3 to 4 Hours from Melbourne CBD

9

Phillip Island: Home of the World’s Largest Colony of Little Penguins

Off the coast of Victoria lies Phillip Island, a sanctuary for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is famous for its nightly Penguin Parade, rugged coastlines, and wildlife encounter opportunities that delight kids and adults alike. Despite the long hours of travel, the rich biodiversity and attractions of Phillip Island make it a worthy destination for day trips from Melbourne. 

Distance from Melbourne: 141 to 143 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? About 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the route

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Take the Monash Freeway (M1) to the Cranbourne exit, where you will turn into the South Gippsland Highway (M420). Follow this route to the Bass Highway (A420), through Grantville and Bass, then onto the Phillip Island Road (B420) to San Remo, over the bridge onto Phillip Island.
  • By public transport: Hop on a V/Line coach, which can drop you off at Grantville, Corinella, Bass, San Remo, Newhaven, and Cowes.
  • By train and ferry: From Flinders Street Station, take the Frankston Line to Frankston Station. Transfer to the Stony Point Line and depart Stony Point. Then, ride a ferry from Western Port Ferries to Cowes.

Tour Available: 

Wildlife Coast Cruises takes you around the stunning shores of Phillip Island, Seal Rocks, Westernport Bay, and Wilsons Promontory. Their tours offer different experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, local wildlife, and marine ecosystems of Phillip Island.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • Watch little penguins waddle out of the sea and into their burrows at the iconic Penguin Parade.
  • Get lost amongst the optical illusions, mind-bending puzzles, and challenging mazes of A Maze ‘N Things.
  • Spend the day swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing, or simply strolling along the golden shores of Cowes Beach.

10

Grampians: World-Class Hiking Trails and Aboriginal Art Sites

For avid adventurers who are on a mission to test their endurance and strength, the Grampians is the perfect destination for day trips from Melbourne. It is known as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its towering cliffs, rugged landscapes, and challenging hiking trails that promise to push your limits.

Distance from Melbourne: 280 to 291 kilometres

How Long Does the Trip Take? About 3 hours and 50 minutes, depending on the route

How to Get Here:

  • By car: Get on the M1 in Port Melbourne. Then, Take National Highway M8 to Barkly St/C222 in Ararat. Continue on C222. Take Moyston-Dunkeld Rd to Red Hill Rd in Grampians.
  • By public transport: Take the Overland train to Horsham or Stawell. From either stop, there are local tour operators that can connect you to the region’s attractions.

Available Tour:

Wildlife Tours takes you on a journey to Grampians National Park’s stunning mountain ranges and landscapes. This tour includes short hikes to some of the best scenic vantage points and a visit to the award-winning Brambuk Cultural Centre. You’ll learn stories about the fascinating history of the Aboriginal people, the landscape, and the native wildlife that make up this region.

What You Can Do for a Day:

  • The Pinnacle Lookout offers one of the most rewarding (and challenging) hikes in the Grampians National Park, with panoramic views that are well worth the trek.
  • For those who prefer an easy hike, Boroka Lookout offers stunning sunrise and sunset views over Halls Gap, Lake Bellfield, and the surrounding Wonderland and Mount William ranges.
  • Dip your feet in the natural rock pools of Venus Baths or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Pro Tip: To make the most of your Grampians adventure, consider an overnight stay or start very early in the morning. This ensures you have enough time to explore key hiking trails, enjoy the views, and experience the region without feeling rushed.

Turn Travel Into a Part of the Adventure with Searoad Ferries

Melbourne is more than just a city. It’s the perfect gateway to an incredible variety of day-trip destinations. Whether you’re drawn to rainforest walks, vineyards, beaches, surfing, history or rugged mountain ranges, there’s a destination waiting for you within an hour or three from the CBD. With Searoad Ferries, you can turn your ordinary commute into a scenic cruise. To make the most of your day trip, try driving down the Mornington Peninsula, ferry across the bay, and return via Geelong, or the other way around. It’s a full-circle experience where the travel itself becomes a highlight of your family getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a car to explore these destinations?

Not always. Most of these spots are accessible by train and/or bus. However, having a car provides much more flexibility, especially if you plan to visit multiple stops, beaches, or vineyards in one day.

2. What’s the best time of year to plan day trips from Melbourne?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and comfortable temperatures for day trips. If possible, avoid peak summer weekends to skip crowds, especially in touristy areas.

3. When is the best time to book tours or activities?

It depends on the destination and the time of year. For peak season and popular activities, it’s best to book several months in advance or at least 1 to 2 months ahead to secure your preferred spots.

Travellers rate us 4.5 out of 5 on Trip Advisor
Simple and enjoyable process
Really enjoyed taking the ferry. Not very busy, easy to get on and off with car and nice ship. Comfortable lounge and even had a sandwich. Really like the driving it saved us. Put us in great shape for starting the Great Ocean Road.
Enjoy the drive..Take The Ferry
Why would you bother driving through all that city traffic when you can just hop aboard the ferry to get from one side of the bay to the other?
Excellent way to cross the bay
We took the car over the bay. What an easy trip. No need to book. Boat is in excellent condition and crew were great. High recommended.