regional victoria to visit

32 best places to visit in Victoria

There are so many amazing places to visit in Victoria. Victoria is a state of diversity from the Australian Alps in the North East to limestone sea stacks that make the 12 Apostles in the south-west, to the arid desert-like condition of the northwest and Australia’s most southerly spot of Wilsons Promontory just to name a few. But what are some of the best places to visit in Victoria?

Places to visit in Victoria during Summer – Phillip Island

• Where to go in Victoria – Wilson's Promontory
• Victoria's interesting places – Mildura

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Best places to visit in victoria, australia.

Melbourne will most likely be your starting destination for visiting the sights of Victoria. Victoria is one of Australia’s smallest states but also it is the second most populated, and Melbourne, the world’s most livable city, is the capital.

We are proud to call this wonderful state home, and there is so much to explore in Victoria . Melbourne is forecast to overtake Sydney in the next 20 years as the most populous city in Australia.

In this places in Victoria Australia article, you will find submissions from some of Australia’s top bloggers who love these holiday places in Victoria and rate them as some of the best places to visit in Victoria. We hope some of the amazing destinations reviewed will inspire you to visit Victoria and find some of your own best places to visit in Victoria.

Places to visit in Victoria

Victoria is known for its scenic landscapes and natural beauty. With epic places to visit in Victoria, you will find that you will be blessed with so much to do.

It has many different regions to explore, so the traveller seeking to find peace and quiet can do so because there are many remote communities, while the explorer looking for culture and excitement will love Victoria’s amazing hidden gems in the small towns and regional areas.

Best places to visit in Eastern Victoria

For the sake of this article, we are classifying Eastern Victoria as most of the state that lies east of Melbourne. The two main highways that will take you through Eastern Victoria are the Princes Highway and the South Gippsland Highway.

A day trip from Melbourne is needed or a stay in the region to see the sights and landmarks in Victoria. You will find Eastern Victoria the least populated area of the state.

It’s known for its small towns, forests, National Parks, food and wine. Some of the best places to visit in Victoria’s east region include the major towns of Warragul, Traralgon, Leongatha and Bairnsdale. It is also home to Victoria’s most remote town Dargo and the Lions Club village of Licola.

The Gippsland Lakes , Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory and the Victorian High Country are popular holiday places in Victoria. Here are all the best places to visit in Victoria in the east.

Tarra Bulga National Park

Tarra Bulga National Park is a hidden gem, located just over 2.5 hours from Melbourne in South Gippsland, we think it is one of the best, albeit lesser-known best places to visit in Victoria.

The National Park forms part of the Strzelecki Ranges and is one of only four cool temperate rainforests in Victoria (including the Otways, Central Highlands, East Gippsland and South Gippsland).

A cool temperate rainforest is cool, wet and dark with lots of ferns and moss. This Gippsland National Park is full of rainforests with giant Mountain Ash trees, beautiful fern gullies, spectacular views, gorgeous walks and an awesome suspension bridge.

From the visitor’s centre, there are a number of short walks, most are interlinking so you can make them longer by combining a couple together. 

These walks take you through and under the rainforest canopy. The Corrigan Suspension Bridge is one of the most popular walks and a must-do. The bridge stretches through the rainforest with magnificent views of the greenest, lushest fern gully. There are also ample spots for a picnic lunch.

The visitor centre provides picnic tables, barbeques, a shelter and a toilet while other picnic areas are set amongst the giant trees and tree ferns. Caravan Parks and various accommodation options are available within the Tarra Valley and surrounding areas, but camping is not permitted within the actual National Park. Make sure you also keep your eyes open for a Lyrebird on one of your walks.

Contributed by Amber, who blogs at Hill Tribe Travels

Mallacoota, is a picturesque and idyllic coastal town located on the far eastern coast of Victoria, near the New South Wales border. With its long beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious inlets, Mallacoota is one of the most popular summer destinations for tourists in Victoria.

The town has a vibrant café and pub scene, with the local Mallacoota pub featuring live music regularly.

Mallacoota is well known for fishing with plenty of fishing spots both in the estuaries and offshore, This is perfect for those looking to enjoy some fresh seafood. The Mallacoota Caravan, which seems to encompass the whole town, has sites that front the water where you can keep your boat in the water.

Visitors can enjoy the sun and waves at the beach, canoeing, jet skiing, diving, bushwalking, or a game of Golf.

You can take a water taxi or guided tour to the nearby lighthouse at Gabo Island. Mallacoota really is about getting away and enjoying the coastal environment of Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Poland Travel Expert

Planning a Victorian summer holiday?   Here is a guide to 8 brilliant summer destinations in Victoria

Buchan to visit Buchan Caves

The Buchan Caves are located in East Gippsland a stunning, scenic 45-minute drive from Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale (another two amazing best places to visit in Victoria). The Buchan Caves reserve is managed by Parks Victoria and has camping and BBQ facilities for travellers or day-trippers to East Gippsland.

You can pitch a tent, bring a van or stay in luxury glamping accommodation for either a night or a longer stay at Buchan Caves one of the best places in Victoria.

The Park is popular for the caves that are able to be explored deep underground. The Fairy Cave and The Royal Cave were discovered early in the 19th century by complete accident. The Royal Cave is 500 meters long and has 150 steps in it, so it is not recommended for people with mobility issues.

When you are touring the caves you see amazing formations, with stunning underground ponds and are blown away at the beauty of it all. Elaborate stalactites and stalagmites are features that have been forming over millions of years from a time when this area was under the ocean. There is even one amazing fossilized fish that you can view.

Buchan Caves is home to many walking trails and native animals. It is not unusual to see Kangaroo hopping around and if you camp you will certainly see possums a night time.

There is a freshwater pool at the caves that fills with water straight out of a cave. It is often called the coldest pool in Victoria because it’s literally freezing. Buchan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Visiting places in Victoria – Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Lakes Entrance is the capital of the Gippsland Lakes located 320 km east of Melbourne and has a plethora of activities for anyone wanting to holiday in Gippsland.

Lakes Entrance has stunning beaches and is home to the pristine 90-mile beach as well as some of the best-grown produce in the state.

A great way to get around Lakes Entrance is to take your bike, as there is a bike path that runs the full length of the town. You can stop at one of the many amazing cafés for a rest if you need to. The Riviera Ice Cream Parlour is one of the favourite shops in town, as well as Big Bears Doughnuts.

If you are travelling to the Gippsland Lakes or Lakes Entrance with kids there are some fun parks to play at, especially on the North Arm near the bridge where you enter Lakes and at Eastern Beach . In the summer there is always a carnival on the foreshore with fun rides that is open until late.

If you don’t like swimming at the surf beach, there are some good spots in the lakes, especially at Kalimna Jetty where there are no waves, and it is nice and sandy. Find a place to stay in Lakes Entrance today

Contributed by Willow, who blogs at Travels in Gippsland

Visit Gippsland:  11 reasons you NEED to visit the Gippsland Lakes

Raymond Island for Koalas!

Many families that come to Australia are excited for up-close encounters with the country’s unique animals, especially the very cute koala. One of the best places to visit in Victoria for a look at these amazing creatures is an easy but extraordinary stop at tiny Raymond Island.

The island is a quick (and free for foot traffic) ferry ride from Paynesville, at the southern end of the Gippsland Lakes area.

Once you reach the shore, there are signs everywhere pointing out the route to the island’s resident population of native koalas!

Some of them live in the gum trees on people’s lawns, but the majority can be found in the small reserve area on the back of the island – just a twenty-minute walk from the ferry landing.

Here you can see koalas snoozing and munching on leaves and could just walk right up to their trees (though they’re wild animals, so make sure to keep a respectful distance). While strolling the peaceful island, you can also see echidnas and numerous native birds.

Contributed by Melissa who blogs at The Family Voyage

Places to go in Victoria – Healesville

An hour and forty minutes by car from Melbourne and nestled within the heart of the Yarra Valley, Healesville is an ideal destination for a weekend away or even a day trip from Melbourne.

While most people visit Healesville for the wine experiences offered there, it is not only an amazing wine destination in Victoria, there are so many other things to do in Healesville.

The Healesville Sanctuary makes for a popular day out for couples, friends or families. Home to Australia’s most beloved furry, feathered and scaled friends, you can book a close encounter with a wombat, echidna and various other animals, or just wander around the sanctuary at your own pace.

Other amazing Healeseville activities include the Maroondah Reservoir Park, locally known as Maroondah Dam. Here you can admire the local birdlife (the place is infested with cockatoos, galahs, mynahs and sacred ibis) and have a picnic.

There’s a playground for the children, gardens to be explored and a waterfront-walking trail, offering panoramic views of the dam itself.

If you don’t mind dealing with kids on a sugar high, plan a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, where tons of delicious treats are made onsite. You may not buy any chocolate, but there are free samples on offer and at the very least, beautiful views of the surrounding valley.

You can also spend the day visiting some of the best cellar doors in the state. The Yarra Valley is world-known for having some of the most stunning vineyards for visitors to experience.

The town centre is worth a wander down too, featuring bookstores, boutique shops, and naturally, bottle-o making Healesville one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book a stay in Healesville today .

Contributed by LC who blogs at Birdgehls

Phillip Island remains one of Victoria’s most well-known attractions because of its nightly penguin parade. But, The Island is about so much more than this, there is literally something for everyone on Phillip Island.

Phillip Island is an easy day tour outside of Melbourne’s CBD (175 km drive), but one day really isn’t enough to enjoy one of the best places in South East Victoria.

Cowes is the centrepiece of Phillip Island with a bustling main street sitting right within Cowes Main Beach and its iconic pier and is a great lunch stop with beautiful views. From there you can also do some amazing wildlife cruises to Seal Rocks – home to the largest fur seal colony in Australia and at the right time of the year an amazing Whale watching experience.

There are many surf beaches on the island including the famed Smiths Beach and Cape Woolami which are true local haunts that shouldn’t be missed.

For motorheads, the MotoGP is held here every year in October which shuts the roadway to the island down, so plan to stay a few days to beat the rush if you do attend.

But for many, it is The Nobbies that truly shine on any visit – a boardwalk overlook that has views of the coast, a blowhole, and the home of the original Artic Journey.

If you only get to see one attraction here, visiting Phillip Island must be it! Don’t forget to book your Phillip Island accommodation

Contributed by Toni who blogs at Enchanted Serendipity

Visit Phillip Island: Plan your trip with our ultimate guide with things to do on Phillip Island

The town of Walhalla in Gippsland is one that is often referred to as a town that time forgot. It is an easy day trip from Melbourne and is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

There are plenty of things to do in Walhalla for all ages and you will find many people enjoying a day out in Walhalla or people camping in the summer months. Located in a valley it is the perfect place to escape the city. Walhalla was originally a big gold mining town.

Once the gold disappeared so did many of the residents but the old buildings are still remnants of the past. The rotunda in the town is a beautiful memory of the times gone by.

If you are visiting Walhalla you may want to go on a ride on the Walhalla Goldfield railway, take a tour of the old Gold mines, wander the main street and have a look at some of the old shops. There are some cafes there for you to eat at or the pub or if you are looking to cook a BBQ there are free areas in the Lions Park in the main street.

Many people also take the time to have a look at the Walhalla cemetery which is located on the side of the hill and has many stories on the tombstones about how hard life was back in the gold rush era. Walhalla in Autumn is stunning with the ever-changing colours of the leaves.

Where to go in Victoria – Wilson’s Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, also known as The Prom, is a national park located in the Gippsland region of Victoria. It is known for its rugged coastal scenery, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and various hiking and camping opportunities.

Visitors can explore the park’s many beaches, bushwalks, and lookouts, and also participate in activities such as swimming, fishing, and bird watching. You can also join a whale-watching cruise off Wilsons Prom for an unforgettable experience. Walks to Squeaky Beach, Little Waterloo Bay and the lighthouse are popular.

Tidal River is the main settlement in the park, with a Park’s Victoria visitors information centre, a small shop, a wilderness cruise booking stall and campgrounds. It’s a wonderful place to visit and explore the natural beauty of Australia. Did you know the most southerly part of mainland Australia is Wilson’s Promontory?

Inverloch is a popular destination on the Bass Coast in southeast Victoria. It is a popular destination in the summer months for families who enjoy the clear waters and scenic surroundings.

Fishing in the Inlet and off the nearby rocks is popular, with a variety of fish such as snapper and gummy sharks on offer.

For something a little more interesting, why not explore the Dinosaur Dreaming Fossil Site? The site is known for its rich deposits of fossils from the Early Cretaceous period, including those of the ornithopod dinosaurs, such as Leaellynasaura, and the theropod dinosaur Australovenator.

You can see Dinosaur footprints in the rocks and walk in the steps of these amazing creatures.

Enjoy the local food and wine at the cafes and restaurants in the town and visit the Inverloch Farmers Market on Sunday.

Dargo is a small town located in the high country region of Victoria, Australia. The town is situated on the Dargo River and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main reasons people visit Dargo is its access to the Alpine National Park, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horse riding. The park is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the historic Wonnangatta Station, the Crooked River, and the iconic High Plains.

In addition to outdoor activities, Dargo is also known for its rich history and heritage. The town was originally a gold mining settlement, and visitors can still see remnants of the mining era, such as the Dargo Heritage Museum and the Dargo Cemetery.

Furthermore, Dargo is a popular spot for off-road driving and 4WD adventures, as it offers challenging tracks and stunning scenery.

Dargo is a beautiful and rugged town that offers a range of activities for those who love the outdoors, history, and adventure.

Places to visit in Northern Victoria

The northern area of  Victoria  is made up of the beautiful Goulburn Valley and the plentiful riverside towns situated along the Murray River. On the Murray is the wonderful Barmah State Park. There are many bird species within the unique wetland region and the largest Redgum forest in the world.

Skiing at places like Mount Buffalo and Mount Buller in the winter months is popular. Major towns in the area include Mildura, Swan Hill, Echuca and Shepparton. The North is easily accessed by the Northern Highway and Hume Freeway to visit places of interest in Victoria.

Best places to visit in regional Victoria – Mount Buffalo

Mt Buffalo is an imposing peak in the North East Victoria region, standing at 1,267 metres above sea level. It’s a popular destination for bushwalkers and day-trippers who can explore its lookouts, Heritage-listed Chalet and rugged undulating terrain while  staying in Bright  and surrounds.

There are also several waterfalls and lakes located on the mountain, making it a great place to spend a day out in nature. In wintertime, visitors can enjoy the snow gums and wildflowers that grow on the mountain.

In the summer months, you can go swimming and canoeing on Lake Catani. There are plenty of designated areas to pull up for a picnic with tables and chairs. The drive to the top is memorable, with many places to stop and see the views over the north.

Victoria tourist spots – Glenrowan

Glenrowan, a small town near Wangaratta, is best known as the site of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his gang’s last stand. Pick up a copy of the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct walking map and take a stroll around this historic town, relieving stories and legends from the past.

The map can be found at local businesses or at the local information stand at the Glenrowan Bakehouse.

The sites of significance around Glenrowan are well-marked and easy to find. Each site has a large placard with plenty of information on the events that transpired during the siege of Glenrowan.

There are even some statues erected representing bushrangers (you can also visit the Melbourne Gaol ) and the police to help visitors really get a feel for what it would have been like on those very streets back in 1880.

Be sure to have your photo taken with the 6-meter-tall statue of Ned Kelly in the village and also to walk over the bridge that connects the main road with the appropriately named Siege Street.

On Seige Street, you’ll find the site of Ann Jones’ Glenrowan Inn, the siege site, the Police Shelter Site and the Ned Kelly Capture Site (there is a plaque on the ground so you can’t miss it). If you enjoy history Glenrowan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Christine who blogs at Adventure Baby

Places to visit in Victoria in Winter – Dinner Plain

Dinner Plain is the newest township in the state of Victoria. This Alpine Ski village was built just down the road from Mount Hotham as a location for cross-country skiing. Dinner Plain borrows its designs from European Ski villages with its chalets and building, it is worth a stop to walk around and look at the architecture in the Alpine region of Victoria .

The Dinner Plain Hotel is open all year round serving meals and drinks. The are other shops and cafes that open mainly during the snow season when the town is at its busiest. For fitness enthusiasts, Dinner Plain is known for its mountain biking and trail running tracks in the National Park.

For something, a little less energetic and more fun Frisbee golf is the go. Staying the night at Dinner Plain is a great idea with awesome accommodation options available at  Club Wyndham Dinner Plain .

Bright is one of those places that you might not see in an Australian guidebook but is a favourite weekend getaway for Victorians and one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Victoria. Set in the Victorian High Country, nestled beside the beautiful Mount Buffalo National Park, Bright truly is a four-season destination. 

In winter, Bright is your gateway to skiing and snow sports. Come summer, there is nothing better than enjoying a cold beer at the Bright Brewery while the kids play in the Ovens River. But, the very best time to visit Bright is in the autumn, when the trees come alive with colour.

The best way to experience the autumn colours is by cycling the Murray to Mountains rail trail.  You can stop off at numerous cute cafes and wineries while taking in nature’s palette.  The annual Bright Autumn Festival in May showcases the region’s produce, foodie culture, art and of course the majestic colours.

Head outside of the town to enjoy some hiking by driving up to Mount Buffalo.  Here the snow gums tower over interesting rock formations and you can enjoy the numerous waterfalls in the Park and beautiful Lake Catani. Book a weekend or week away in Bright , we recommend staying at Discovery Parks Bright .

Contributed by Dawn who blogs at 5 Lost Together

Victorian weekend getaways: All the very best things to do in Bright

Located just over an hour north of Melbourne is the town of Nagambie. Most people visiting the town either come for Nagambie Lake or the nearby wineries. Lake Nagambie is a man-made lake that came about from the damming of the Goulburn River, creating one of the biggest lakes in Victoria for recreational use.

There are a few hotels and a Discovery Parks property on the shore of the lake for visitors who arrive looking to participate in popular activities such as fishing, canoeing, jet skis and more.

The Nagambie area is also known as one of the places in Victoria where you can get some amazing wine. Names such as Mitchelton and Tahbilk dominate the area, Tahbilk for its heritage as being one of the oldest wineries in the state.

Mitchelton on the other hand is modern and renowned for its architecture with a huge winemaking complex consisting of a Restaurant, Art Gallery and hotel.

Around the town, you can visit the Goulburn Weir, Gold Mining sites, and Kirwans Bridge for starters. The town of Nagambie itself has a golf course, brewery, and a number of options for eating such as the local RSL, Thai by the Lake and the Eighteen Sixty wine bar just to name a few.

Contributed by Mark, who writes at Wyld Family Travel

Places to see in Victoria – Hepburn Springs

The towns of Daylesford and the lesser-known Hepburn Springs are two of the most delightful places to visit in Victoria. Approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne, past the magnificent Macedon Ranges.

There are quite a few wineries along the way and a hidden waterfall too if you’re feeling brave enough for an adventure. All in all, making it a rather pleasant drive through the mountains.

The best things to do in Hepburn Springs are to eat yourself silly, spoil yourself at a spa treatment and enjoy a walk around the wonderful historical gardens. The twin towns boast wonderful food, wine and coffee as well as one of Australia’s best cideries at  Daylesford Cider .

The area is also brimming with local artists showcasing their work, historical buildings turned into galleries and antique stores galore. Now if you think that these two towns can’t get any better this area is incredibly LGBTQI-friendly.  Daylesford hosts a variety of LGBTQI events every year.

Contributed by Jean who blogs at Travelling Honeybird

The Macedon Ranges

The Macedon Ranges area is a short trip from Melbourne, perfect for weekend getaways or even a lazy Sunday drive. Consisting of the townships of Gisborne, Riddells Creek, Woodend, Macedon, Malmsbury, Lancefield, Romsey, Mount Macedon and Kyneton, this area has a rich history and breathtaking natural wonders, whilst also being a foodie haven for those looking to treat themselves.

From Kyneton’s historic Piper Street and mineral springs where you can pump sparkling water straight from the ground at the rest stop on Burton Avenue as you head past the Campaspe River, to Malmsbury and its incredible viaduct; through to Mount Macedon’s famous Memorial Cross and then, of course, the iconic Hanging Rock (yes, the very one from the movie!).

This area boasts a wealth of experiences suitable for families, couples and even the lone adventure traveller. Any of these towns are some of the best places to visit in Victoria and will make your holiday spectacular.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, look up the  Flop House   for a range of beautifully curated boutique homes awaiting your booking. And for food? The options are endless, although Major Tom’s in Kyneton has come highly recommended by locals if you’re looking for a burger!

Contributed by Leah who blogs at Kid Bucket List

Autumn in Victoria: 13 spectacular places to visit for amazing autumn colours

Victoria’s interesting places – Mildura

A remote town on the edge of the Outback, set on the banks of the beautiful Murray River, Mildura is an incredible region, with an irresistible appeal. Mildura is rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria. A one-hour flight from Melbourne, or a six-hour drive, it is a fabulous base for some of the country’s most fascinating National Parks, water-based adventure, and local Australian produce.

Oozing regional Australian charm, Mildura is a very pretty town with sunny Mediterranean weather, riverbank walks, and the opportunity to drift down the Murray River aboard a luxury houseboat.

As far as nearby natural wonders are concerned, this is your base for the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park (an important cultural site, with aboriginal relics that date back 45,000 years), Hattah-Kulkyne National Park with its beautiful bush setting and range of iconic wildlife, and the pink salt lakes of Murray Sunset National Park.

Mildura has been described as an ‘important Australian food bowl’, with adjacent agricultural districts and award-winning wines drawing foodies into town. You’ll find an abundance of grapes, citrus fruits, almonds, olives, countless varieties of vegetables and much more here.

There are award-winning wineries and oil farms, and no shortage of great places to eat in Mildura.

Mildura really does have it all, so put it on your list of towns to visit in Victoria soon! You will find plenty of accommodation options in Mildura for your stay

Contributed by Megan who blogs at Mapping Megan

Road trip Victoria: Our easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary will guide you!

If you are looking for the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend, a biking or hiking getaway with the kids or a romantic escape, Milawa in country Victoria should be on your list of towns to visit in Victoria. Situated in one of the wine and gourmet regions in the north of the state, Milawa is also a short hop from the regional centre of Wangaratta and is approximately 2 and ½ hours out of Melbourne.

Take a walk or a bike ride along the bike trails that surround Milawa and you’ll soon find yourself visiting the many cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores.

Grab a map and pick up a bike at the local bike hire or borrow one from the Brown Brothers cellar door. Stop in at one of the cafés or restaurants for a leisurely lunch, ice cream or coffee break.

Try your hand at some cooking at Pizzini’s Wine Cooking School or sample some gourmet local cheese from Milawa’s historic cheese factory. Better still, you can just sit back and relax, wine in hand.

With a range of boutique accommodations, overlooking vineyards this gorgeous town will provide you with a retreat from reality, once you’re there you’ll find it very hard to go home. Milawa is definitely one of the best places to visit in Victoria with so much to offer.

Contributed by Julie who blogs at A Not So Young Woman Abroad

Victoria destinations – Echuca

Echuca is a stunning town and one that is filled to the brim with amazing Australian history. If you are a history buff then, Echuca is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Many people visit Echuca to ride the Murray River on one of the historic paddle steamers that were the lifeblood of the towns located along the Murray. These old streamers are amazing relics of the past that give joy to all who get to ride one.

While you are cruising the Murray you are also given a guide by the captain as to what boat you are riding in and a talk about how important the river was.

After you have enjoyed your cruise a wander through the Echuca Discovery Center gives you another view of how the Murray shaped Victoria in the early years of settlement.

If you are able to go on a guided tour of the centre and have one of the workers walk you through the history of the area. They will also tell you the stories of the town and how it became so popular after the filming of ‘All the Rivers Run’.

If you are travelling to Echuca with kids (or you are a kid at heart) you may want to take them a little out of town for a visit to the Kyabram fauna park or Cactus Country. For anyone interested in Silo Art there is also a small easily accessible silo art trail that is wonderful.

All this makes Echuca one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Find your place to stay in Echuca today.

Chiltern – hidden places to visit in Victoria

Chiltern is a historic town in Northern Victoria, Australia. You will find plenty of things to do in this little town. Explore Chiltern-Mt. Pilot National Park, is known for its eucalyptus forests old gold mining history and birdlife.

Wander the well-preserved Chiltern Historic Precinct, with gold rush-era buildings such as the old Chiltern Police lockup from the mid-1870s and supposedly Australia’s oldest grapevine. Enjoy the serenity of Lake Anderson, perfect for walking, picnics and birdwatching.

Don’t miss the town’s cosy eateries, and consider staying in charming bed-and-breakfasts or cottages. Chiltern offers history, nature, and relaxation in one quaint package.

Read more: Looking for Silo Art check out these 2 amazing Silo Art Trails in Northern Victoria.

Best places to visit in Western Victoria

Western Victoria is home to many of Victoria’s great attractions, and Western Victoria is one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The number one thing is the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles. Many people go on an organised tour or take a road trip down Victoria’s coast.

This region is home to Geelong, Victoria’s largest provincial city, and Ballarat , Victoria’s largest inland city. There is a number of National Parks and major tourist attractions in towns such as Bendigo, Ballarat and Warrnambool. The Western district is known for its dairy farms and rolling green pastures.    

Aireys Inlet

Just before the historic arch that marks the start of the Great Ocean Road is the little town of Airey’s Inlet. Famous for its wide sweeping beaches and the iconic lighthouse, Airey’s (as the locals call it) is one of the most scenic best places to visit in Victoria.

For a small town, Airey’s packs a big punch and is the perfect weekend getaway or stop on your Great Ocean Road trip. Start your visit by taking a long walk along the beach at nearby Urquhart’s Bluff to watch the local surfers ride some huge waves and potter in rockpools.

After your beach walks, stop for a snack at Willows Teahouse below the Split Point lighthouse. From the cafe explore the beautiful clifftop walks and lookout spots. Several times a day there are guided tours of the lighthouse. On the tour, you can climb to the top and enjoy incredible views of the southern Victorian coastline. 

The Airey’s Pub is well known for its huge outdoor beer garden with views of the sea, pub menu and in-house craft brewery. You can spend a relaxing afternoon there taking in the sea views. Or, if you want a culture fix, head over the road and enjoy the exhibitions featuring local artists at the Eagle’s Nest Fine Art Gallery.

For a relaxing time away, Airey’s Inlet has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book your stay on the coast today at Airey’s Inlet

Contributed by Katy who blogs at Untold Morsels

Regional Victoria places to visit – Ballarat

Ballarat is one of the best places to visit in Victoria as it is one of the oldest towns in Victoria with so many activities for all ages. What makes Ballarat one of the best places to visit in Victoria is that there are so many fun places to explore.

Ballarat is a very easy place to get to being only 100 kilometres from Melbourne which can be done in a day trip from Melbourne or you can plan a trip to Ballarat for a few days. The possibilities for a visit to Ballarat are endless!

Sovereign Hill is its most famous attraction for Ballarat sightseeing and draws visitors from all over the state. Here, you can learn what it was like to be a gold miner in the area during the Gold Rush. It’s set up like an old mining town, and it’s fun for all ages.

You can pan for gold, dress up in old-style clothes and watch working exhibits where you can learn how blacksmiths worked or people made sweets. There are also mine tours.

But there is more to Ballarat than Sovereign Hill. You can also visit Kryal Castle to learn about medieval times. There was a maze, jousting and many demonstrations when we visited as well as the castle itself to walk through, although Kryal Castle is not actually a real castle!

Between these two Ballarat attractions, you could easily spend a day in Ballarat, but if you are around longer, there is also the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (MADE) which is a small museum about the events of the Eureka Stockade. There is also a tram museum, beautiful botanical gardens, a wildlife park and many more features.

Contributed by Sharon who blogs at Simple and Smarter

With so many places to stay in Ballarat, you can easily use this map to find the perfect stay for your trip to Ballarat.

Loch Ard Gorge

Loch Are Gorge is a favourite enchanting destination with a legendary tale and one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The Gorge is named after a ship, called the Loch Ard, which in 1878 ran aground on Muttonbird Island. Out of 54 passengers and crew, only two teenagers survived. One of them was a young 15-year-old named Tom.

After washing up on shore, Tom heard cries for help coming from the water. Tom dove straight back into the water to rescue 17-year-old Eva. Once she was ashore, Tom then climbed out of the gorge to seek help. What a hero!

If that story doesn’t leave you stirred, the view surely will with its breathtaking high walls and the unrelenting ocean waves lapping the warm yellow sand. Enjoy the view from the top, but make time to actually climb down the stairs and let the sand get between your toes at one of the most beautiful places in Victoria.

For many visiting this area, this Great Ocean Road attraction is at the top of their list of best places to visit in Victoria for locals and international tourists alike.

Port Campbell is the closest town to stay to Loch Ard Gorge and the 12 Apostles.

Contributed by Erin who blogs at Explore with Erin

Cool places to visit in Victoria – Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads has changed dramatically over the years, it was originally a sleepy little beachside town with beach shack weekenders for Melbourne holidaymakers. Now you will find the town filled to the brim with everything new and shiny and rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria in summer.

During Christmas and school holidays, towns on the Bellarine Peninsula swell with holidaymakers, wanting to make the best of the fun, sun sand and surfing. The main street is full of cafes and trendy shops but the fish and chip shop is still there and a town favourite.

The local pub hasn’t changed and is located right across from the caravan park, facing the beach it’s still a favourite place for everyone to end the day. You are still guaranteed to still get a great parma for a reasonable price. Barwon Heads has a great family-friendly beach just next to the bridge on the Barwon River, it’s shallow has no waves and is perfect for little kids.

For bigger kids, Raffles Beach is perfect for those wanting to learn how to surf and just enough waves to have fun. It can at times get rough and like any Australian beach, you need to be aware of rips and be a relatively good swimmer.  Search for great accommodation in Barwon Heads.

Contributed by Sally who blogs at our3kidsvtheworld

Cape Ottway

From the moment that you turn onto Lighthouse Road off the Great Ocean Road,  Victoria, it’s clear that Cape Otway is a very special location in Australia. As you drive through the Great Otway National Park, be sure to stop and take a closer look – the road is thickly forested with koala-inhabited gum trees on either side.

Some of them seem close enough to reach out and touch! If you can drag yourself away from these grey, furry little cuties, continue on down the road to the stunning Peninsula.

At the end of the road, you can visit the Cape Otway Lightstation. This significant tourist attraction hosts one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Australia, just one of several attractions grouped together for the one entrance fee ($19.50 per adult or $49.50 per family of four).

You can climb the staircase right up to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular ocean views, grab a bite to eat at the café or visit one of the several historical outbuildings and indigenous sites.

As if that wasn’t enough, there is, even more, to see at Cape Otway including the Otway Fly treetop walk . Located on a remote beach at Point Franklin, just a short drive and then bushwalk from the Light station you’ll find a historically significant dinosaur bone excavation dig. There’s so much to do and see at Cape Otway, Victoria – we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Victoria!

Contributed by Barbara who blogs at Lets Go Mum.

Discover hidden gems: 22 best things to do in Warrnambool

Holiday in Victoria near The 12 Apostles

Arguably the most well-known attraction on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks just off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park and stand proudly at almost 150ft tall alongside the road making for the perfect road trip backdrop.

The pillars were christened with the name the 12 Apostles in the 1920s (prior to this they were called the Sow and Piglets!) – despite the fact, that there were only 9 at the time. And this number has since been reduced to 7 as the waves and wind that carved them out of the shoreline in this first place, have worn away and reclaimed two of the columns it originally created.

But with the nature of the coast and the extreme weather conditions, it faces every year, more columns are expected to develop over time (although there is no guarantee they’ll join the established lineup!)

The best way to experience the (remaining) Apostles is on the beautiful boardwalk that has been built and provides the perfect viewing platform out over the water. For a different view, you can also take a helicopter flight above and over them. And if you can, time your visit with sunrise or sunset. You won’t be disappointed and you will remember this as one of the most memorable and best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Vicki who blogs at The Big Australia Bucket List

The Grampians

The Grampians are an absolute must when planning a trip to Melbourne and its surroundings. From large sandstone mountain ranges to waterfalls and meeting local Kangaroos, there are so many things to see and do. To reach this beautiful part of Victoria, you’re looking at a distance of 260 kilometres west of the Melbourne CBD and around 3 hours driving.

The area is renowned for hiking, rock climbing and other outdoor activities and can be enjoyed at your own leisure depending on the time you have allowed which makes the Grampians one of the best places to visit in Victoria for nature lovers.

If time is of the essence, you are able to see the main attractions in a short period of time, with a weekend more than plausible for ticking off those bucket list items.

Throughout the National Park, there are many attractions including Boroka Lookout, Mount William, The Pinnacle, The Balconies and Reed’s Lookout.

If there is one place to visit that is not to be missed, it’s the ever-so-popular Mackenzie Falls. With high rainfall throughout the year, the falls continue to flow and are the most breathtaking sight to behold.

If you want to finish your day in the most Australian fashion, a quick visit to the Halls Gap (one of the best towns to visit in Victoria for access to the Grampians) local football oval at dusk will allow you up close and personal with the native Kangaroos. A great way to complete a visit to not only the Grampians and Melbourne but also Australia. Book an amazing stay in Halls Gap

Contributed by Joey who blogs at JC Adventure Images

Geelong – Where to go on holiday in Victoria

Geelong is a city located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. It is known for its rich history, scenic coastal views, and vibrant cultural scene, In recent years the Geelong waterfront has had an upgrade and a revival with new restaurants and green spaces.

In Geelong, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the Geelong Botanic Gardens, The Old Geelong Goal and the National Wool Museum. For those who like beer, a visit to the Little Creatures Brewery complex is a must. It is a great example of how Geelong’s industrial past has been repurposed for tourism.

For art lovers, the Geelong Art Gallery features a collection of Australian and international art and has over 6,000 works of art in its collection. Bike riders will love the Bellarine rail trail and for adventure seekers why not take a hot air balloon ride?

Many Visitors will start their travel to regional Victoria from Melbourne, especially if they are from interstate or overseas. Below you will find some information to make your initial stay in Melbourne easier before deciding where to travel in Victoria.

Warrnambool

Warrnambool is a coastal gem in southwestern Victoria! Explore the stunning Shipwreck Coast with its iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The most well-known tourist attraction in town is Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, where you will learn about the area’s maritime history.

Witness the iconic Southern Right Whales in season at Logan’s Beach. Stroll along the picturesque Lake Pertobe, perfect for family fun. Discover the vibrant art scene at Warrnambool Art Gallery and indulge in local cuisine at top-notch eateries.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or culture, Warrnambool has something for everyone. Don’t miss this coastal haven on your Australian adventure!

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are the best things to do in Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians!

The best places to visit in the Melbourne area

Melbourne is known for its vibrant cultural scene, excellent food, coffee, and wine, as well as its beautiful parks and gardens. The city of Melbourne is divided into several suburbs and areas, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the most popular suburbs include:

There are many things to do and see in the suburb of St Kilda in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. St Kilda is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of attractions and activities.

One of the main draws of St Kilda is its beautiful beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The website also highlights the many cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area, which offer a diverse range of cuisine and atmosphere.

In addition to the beach and dining options, the website suggests several other activities to try in St Kilda. These include visiting the iconic Luna Park amusement park, exploring the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, or taking a stroll down the lively Acland Street to browse the many shops and boutiques.

Getting to Melbourne

• Melbourne is the second biggest city in Australia. Melbourne International Airport is 23 kilometres from the city centre.
• Melbourne is serviced by many international airlines and budget carriers Jetstar, Tiger, Scoot and AirAsia just to name a few. You can check the prices of international flights to Australia with  Kiwi . Domestic flights can be booked with Webjet  
• There is no direct public transport link with Melbourne Airport. You can catch the Skybus or you can book an airport transfer with Suntransfers who we have personally used on many occasions.
• You can book a rental car and have it waiting for you at Melbourne Airport so you can road trip to all the best places to visit in Victoria.

Getting around Melbourne

Myki is Melbourne’s ticketing system for travel on the city’s trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors coming to Victoria can buy a  Myki Explorer pack . The Myki pack combines a ready-to-use Myki card, visitor information and special offers for travellers looking for all the best places to visit in Victoria.

It’s a great option for visitors who choose to explore Melbourne and regional Victoria by public transport! You need to touch your Myki card on and off when you use the public transport system. The   Free Tram Zone  in Melbourne’s CBD makes it easy to move around the city. On the free trams, you do not need to touch on and off with a Myki. Download the Free Tram Zone map on the  Maps page .

If you are using public transport in Melbourne here are some added ideas on top things to see and do:

• Shrine Of Remembrance
• Watch an AFL game
• Melbourne Zoo entry
• Federation Square
• Street Art Tour
• Picnic on the Yarra River
• SeaLife Aquarium
• Melbourne Museum
• Queen Victoria Market
• Melbourne Sports Experience
• Balloon ride at Sunrise
• Legoland Discovery Centre
• Skydive over St Kilda

Discover More: 23 spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

Where to stay in Melbourne

• Melbourne has accommodation options for every budget from hostels to apartments and hotel rooms
• Hostels in Melbourne can start from as little as $21 a night for a shared dorm room.
• You can search Melbourne apartment accommodation offerings .
• Hotels in Melbourne generally start from around $100 a night for a double room and increase incrementally as the luxury rating rises towards 5 stars. Google states that a 3-star average is around $113, and a 5-star average is $314 for a night stay. You can compare and book your stay on Agoda or Trip Advisor.

There are so many best places to visit in Victoria so put some of these amazing places on your next Victorian road trip itinerary.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

The best free things to do in Melbourne

The very best things to do in Lakes Entrance

Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

• 10 Unmissable Attractions In Regional...

Unmissable Attractions in Regional Victoria, Australia

Venture outside Melbourne and discover the myriad of wonderful experiences and attractions. From Sovereign Hill in Ballarat to the Silo Art Trail in the Wimmera/Mallee region, these are some of the best attractions in Regional Victoria.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Sovereign Hill

Opened in 1970, Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum set in Ballarat’s 1850s gold rush era. Pan for gold in the diggings creek, be amazed by the $160,000 gold pour, journey underground into Red Hill Mine, and see the multi-million-dollar sound-and-light show, Blood on the Southern Cross , which depicts the 1854 Eureka Uprising. Sovereign Hill also features 60 historic buildings, including a range of dining options and on-site accommodation.

Penguin Parade

“Take a waddle on the wild side” at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade , where you can see penguins in their natural environment. Explore the visitors’ centre before making your way down the boardwalk to the viewing area to see the little penguins wobble up Summerland Beach and into their burrows each day at sunset. Don’t forget to rug up as it gets chilly.

Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock continues to lure tourists, much as Joan Lindsay depicted in her ambiguous but fictional novel, Picnic at Hanging Rock. Formed six million years ago, this spellbinding geological formation is a great spot for families to bring their own picnics or take advantage of the on-site café. Hanging Rock also hosts concerts and has featured some of the biggest musical acts in the world, including Leonard Cohen, Bruce Springsteen and The Eagles.

The 12 Apostles

The jewel—or jewels, rather,—of the dramatic Great Ocean Road are most definitely The 12 Apostles . Rising from the coast, this iconic group of windswept limestone stacks were formed by erosion during millions of years. Today, there are only eight left standing, and they are viewed at dawn or dusk from the lookout and walkways, which are open 365 days a year.

Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa

Submerge yourself within the restorative mineral waters at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. Just more than 10 minutes from Daylesford, the historic bathhouse includes a salt therapy pool that is heated to 38 degrees Celsius, as well as creekside bathing, an aroma steam room, and communal bathing in mineral rich waters. The sanctuary offers a range of hydrotherapies, spa rituals and revitalizing treatments. For continued relaxation, guests can stay at one of the retreat’s 10 five-star villas, which overlook the native bushland.

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The Pinnacle

Although there are many worthwhile attractions in Grampians National Park , the most popular is The Pinnacle , a rocky spur that extends from a cliff face in Halls Gap. This natural lookout can be reached via a number of walking trails, including the family-friendly 4.2-kilometre return hike that begins at Sundial carpark. Whichever route you take, the hike is well worth the marvellous view from the top.

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Located at the southernmost point of Australia’s mainland, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a 50,000-hectare reserve featuring scenic walking trails, an array of native wildlife, and spectacular bush and coastal landscapes. There are camping and accommodation options in the popular Tidal River, and the park also includes a visitors’ centre, general store, fish ‘n’ chips shop, a café and other amenities.

Kokoda Memorial Walk (1,000 Steps)

Built to honour the men who fought and died on the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea in World War II, the 1,000 Steps walk is a steep pilgrimage representative of the Golden Staircase on the Kokoda Track. The five-kilometre uphill hike includes 776 steps (no, there aren’t actually 1,000) that pass through ferns and manna gums. The steps attract fitness fanatics looking to challenge themselves and take approximately two hours for people of moderate fitness level.

Silo Art Trail

Set to become Australia’s largest outdoor gallery, the Silo Art Trail is a series of six decommissioned wheat silos that have been repurposed as colossal murals. Towering over the Victoria’s Wimmera/Mallee region, the trail will stretch more than 200 kilometres and will link some of the state’s smallest towns, including Rupanyup, Sheep Hills, Brim, Rosebery, Lascelles and Patchewollock.

Steavenson Falls

Less than 10 minutes from Marysville, Steavenson Falls is one of the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in Victoria. The falls feature five cascades that plunge 84 meters into Steavenson River valley. From the reserve carpark, it’s a 700-meter walk to the viewing platform below the falls. Along the way, you’ll see the turbine generator, and you might even spot a Lyrebird.

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Regional Victoria's coolest and quirkiest small towns

Posted September 20, 2023

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or adventure and adrenalin junkie, these quaint, quirky, and captivating towns in regional Victoria are worth the drive.

Victoria might be known for its upmarket seaside towns, sprawling wine regions and luxurious spa country, but off the beaten track, there are some hidden gems in our midst. 

From a gorgeous gold-rush era village with a population of just 20 residents to an International Book Town or a visit to residents of a dormant volcano, Victoria's roads-less-travelled are punctuated with must-see spots worthy of any road trip.

It may be a quirky weekend away or a just a day trip away from the hustle and bustle. Either way, regional Victoria has something for everyone. Here's our guide to some of the most captivating and unique Victorian towns. 

Before you take off, pack your emergency car kit  and check that you've updated your  RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance .

All bibliophiles should bookmark this pretty little Goldfields town north of Ballarat .

Located just a 15 minute drive from the RACV Goldfields Resort,  it’s home to so many bookshops that it’s been declared an 'International Book Town' – one of only 22 worldwide.

Along with the beloved Booktown Festival each year, Clunes regularly hosts free author talks on the third Sunday of every month.

If visiting on any other day, enjoy the peaceful rhythms of the well-read community, where some of the state’s best-preserved 19th-century buildings house cafes, bistros and, of course, bookshops.

You can’t miss the fabulous Fish Creek Hotel. The looming art deco building topped with a huge, stunned mullet by Gippsland artist Colin Suggett has become a beacon to those travelling through the rolling countryside to Wilsons Promontory, or those tackling the Great Southern Rail Trail.

Go for a gallery hop around the “Arts capital of South Gippsland” – including the gallery/bookshop of adored children’s author and illustrator Alison Lester, and Celia Rosser’s eponymous gallery showing her intricate botanical drawings – before a lunch of fine Gippsland pub grub at the destination watering hole.

Along with having one of the most memorable names going round, Dookie is a scenic slice of the  Goulburn Valley , with a progressive reputation and community feel.

Surrounded by springtime golden canola fields and the trio of hills Mount Major, Mount Saddleback and Gentle Annie, the town offers hidden gems including Dookie Emporium – a vintage treasure trove with a popular cafe – and laidback Tallis Wines in Dookie Hills, where vines thrive in red volcanic soil.

Stop in before a stay at the  RACV Cobram Resort , which is just 25 minutes away.

French Island

A French Island in Victoria? It's here, and accessible by ferry from Stony Point and Cowes in nearby Phillip Island . As one of many of the state's island paradises , the area is known for its magnificent national park, which is not only home to Victoria's most significant koala population, but also accommodates over 70 per cent of the island, with over 580 indigenous plants and 230 bird species calling it home. 

Once you've arrived, head on an island mountain bike ride, go on a scenic bird-watching trail, look out for seals and dolphins , visit the local winery, or simply have a relax on the white sandy beaches before heading back to the nearby RACV Inverloch Resort.

Nestled in the lush  Otways , Forrest lures all kinds of travellers, from avid cyclists heading on mountain trails and adventurers searching for the elusive  Otways panther , to rugged  road trippers  and gourmet foodies travelling inland from the Surf Coast.

The Forrest Mountain Bike Trails offer more than 65 kilometres of track winding through the Great Otway National Park, and local hiking trails lead to secluded waterfalls and ferny nooks. Nearby, kayakers paddle between ghostly gums while searching for platypus on haunting  Lake Elizabeth . The ever-popular Forrest Brewing Company and eatery beckon when it’s time to refuel.

Not only does Maldon have the most intact heritage streetscape in Victoria, the charming village, less than two hours' drive north-west of Melbourne, also claims the title of Australia's First Notable Town, after being classified by the National Trust in 1966.

As well as having one of the  best country pubs in Victoria , Maldon's 19th-century main street has been meticulously preserved since the gold rush days, with the local railway station (built in 1884), Grand Hotel (1888) and old post office (1870), among some of its beautifully maintained heritage buildings. 

Step back in time at Walhalla, a sleepy mountainside village at the edge of the Victorian Alps that might just be  Victoria's ultimate ghost town.

After the discovery of Cohen's Reef in the 1860s - a 3km vein of gold running through Walhalla, which yielded more than 50 tonnes of gold – the town became one of Australia’s richest, with some 4000 gold-digging hopefuls calling it home.

These days, the charming village is home to just 20 residents, with the historic centre lovingly restored to its gold rush-era glory. The picturesque spot offers myriad biking and hiking trails but, if you like eerie experiences, take a ghost tour of the old cemetery on the hill.

There’s no pot of gold at the end of this Rainbow, but the small town on the southern fringe of Victoria’s Mallee is still a hidden gem known as the 'Gateway to the Mallee.'

The Mallee region is a destination in itself, as part of Victoria's great silo art trail  and the tiny town of Patchewollock.

The colourfully named destination is situated at the edge of the Big Desert, and surrounded by desert lakes and vast Wimmera wilderness. It's also home to an impressive 23 murals depicting the life and history of the town’s pioneers.

If you want to go 'rainbow hunting', 16 of the murals are located on and around the main street (Federal Street), while the most recent installation is at the rear of the heritage-listed Yurunga Homestead, a beautiful Edwardian-era home built in 1909.

Get a taste of Victoria's earliest medicine at Chiltern, located in Victoria's north-east. The historic township and old gold-mining town is home to Dow's Pharmacy, which includes an original apothecary workshop replete with original fittings, as well as equipment, medicine, and other stock dating back more than 100 years.

The original chemist built it in 1859, and one of its early pharmacists was David McEwen, father of the 18th Australian prime minister, Sir John McEwen.

It makes a great stop just 15 minutes before entering the  wineries of Rutherglen.

It might be known for its vibrant local pub, but Koroit, on the northern slopes of  Victoria's dormant Tower Hill volcano , is also a history buff's treasure trove.

The charismatic rural town, located 15km inland from  Warrnambool , describes itself as an 'Irish Village', and is hailed as one of Australia`s most complete examples of an early Irish settlement.

Nestled in a dormant volcano formed some 30,000 years ago, the wildlife haven was declared Victoria’s first National Park in 1892, and offers visitors an up-close-and-personal experience with some of Australia’s most iconic native birds and animals.

When it comes to reputations, being known as the town with the  best ice cream in the state  seems like a pretty enviable one. This Surf Coast hinterland hot spot, known for its cheese and dairy industry, has become a becoming a  foodie's haven . 

The local Timboon Fine Ice Cream shop has been scooping hand-churned ice cream made using the freshest local ingredients - the milk comes from the neighbour’s farm and the cream from the local dairy - for more than 20 years. There's even a Saundae School for anyone who wants to learn more about the art of ice cream making.

Timboon  is also home to an award-winning whisky distillery, which has been pouring fine spirits from its converted railway shed headquarters since 2008. 

Just 25 minutes' drive from Horsham, roughly halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide , you'll find Murtoa. The quaint country town is a gateway to many of the hidden treasures of the far west region of the Wimmera, including the must-do Silo Art Trail.

Established in 1876 around picturesque Lake Marma, the town is home to Heritage Listed sights including the Stick Shed, the only remaining emergency grain store built during World War Two, and Kurrajong Tree Avenue; the oldest native street planting in Victoria.

Step out of the city and into a fairytale with a trip to Loch, about 1.5 hours down the South Gippsland Hwy from Melbourne. The stunning town, set against the rolling emerald green hills of the  Strzelecki Ranges , is studded with 20th century buildings that are now home to an array of bustling cafes, galleries,  gin distilleries , antiques stores and artisan grocers.

For one of the best vantage points in town, don't miss the Cape Horn Lookout on the Loch-Wonthaggi Road.

Bonnie Doon

'We're going to Bonnie Doon!'

The picture-perfect lakeside resort destination, which was made famous in the 1997 Australian satire  The Castle ,  is situated in north-east Victoria on the edge of Lake Eildon. 

Much of the original town of Bonnie Doon was flooded by the construction of the lake in the 1950s and, as such, the township was relocated, earning it the nickname of 'the town that moved.'

The small village is full of culture, with bushwalking,  fishing , water skiing, 4WD, trail bike riding and horse riding among some of its more popular activities. Or, if you'd prefer to just relax, sit back and enjoy the serenity.

Being road trip happy is the best. Sign up to Emergency Roadside Assistance before you leave →

Related reading

7 of Victoria’s most underrated travel destinations and hidden places

The best day trips from Melbourne

7 of the best road trips and scenic drives in Victoria

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Hit The Road And Visit These 12 Amazing Victorian Towns

By Urban List Writers

26th Aug 2024

Beautiful coastlines and beaches, mountain top walks, and relaxing day spas all await you in parts of regional Victoria.

Here are some places you should pack the car and head to.

Travel time: 3.5 hours Great for: Bush Walking

Bright is one of the most picturesque places in Victoria and comes alive in autumn through to winter.

Leaves turn brown and fall to the ground–couple that with brisk foggy mornings and you've got some beautiful days of sightseeing ahead of you.

Bright is wedged between Mount Buffalo and Falls Creek, so you can imagine it gets a little cold at night. And with the 3.5 hour drive time from Melbourne, you're best to stay for a full weekend, or even longer.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Bright? Scope out this lofty studio hidden in the wilderness.

Travel Time: 6 hours Great For: Wilderness Adventures

Mallacoota is a six-hour drive out of Melbourne and the perfect spot for a long weekend getaway. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, situated on the mouth of the Wallagaraugh River with the Croajingalong National Park to the south-west, and the Cape Howe Marine National Park to the east.

The Thurra River dunes walk is a highlight–trek through banksias and heathland to dunes which sit 30-metres above the Thurra River with amazing views. Check out some further inspiration for a Mallacoota trip here .

Need somewhere to stay in Mallacoota? Take a look at this stunner of an Airbnb with lakeside views.

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Great for: Food & Wine

Jindivick isn't exactly a tourism mecca, but it's well worth a trip to the small west Gippsland town.

A couple of years ago, Melbourne Food & Wine Festival turned the whole town into a foodie paradise which only strengthened its standing as a destination for day-trippers seeking some great food, wine, and produce.

There are many wineries dotted throughout the rolling hills surrounding the town. Wild Dog Winery is probably the best known, but it's worth visiting others such as Ripplebrook Winery, Piedmont Wines, Narracan Falls Winery, Meriz Winery, and Brandy Creek Wines.

The Brandy Creek Wines property is also home to the Brandy Creek Day Spa which features a Turkish hammam and is a great spot for some rest and relaxation.

Get some further inspiration for a Jindivick day trip here .

Travel Time: 1 Hour 20 Minutes Great For: Beer & Whisky

No trip to Wilsons Prom is complete without jumping off the South Gippsland Highway and stopping at Loch.

The sleepy town is now home to a range of amazing businesses making the most of the surrounding landscape and produce.

Stop by the Loch Brewery & Distillery for traditional ales, along with gin, negroni, and whisky all available to take home too. 

Olive at Loch is a great spot to stop for a coffee and some delicious baked goods if the mood takes you. It's also worth wandering along the quaint main street and heading into Udder & Hoe for some 'slow food' and picking up some great produce from the surrounding area.  Get some further inspiration for a Loch day trip here .

Looking for accommodation near Loch? Check out this tiny home and meet the local alpacas.

Healesville

Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes great for: food & wine.

There’s so much to see and do in Healesville that it's hard to get it all into a couple of paragraphs.

Healesville Sanctuary is a great spot to spend a day, and there are plenty of picnic spots too. Catch Australian native animals in beautiful habitats. Koalas, platypus, kangaroos, dingoes, and more roam around the grounds of the Sanctuary.

In Healesville itself, you'll find great spots to quench your thirst and fill your stomach for a day of exploring the wineries of the Yarra Valley.

Monroe's on Maroondah Highway dishes up excellent burgers, and a trip to Healesville isn't complete without stopping by the massive Four Pillars shed for a gin tasting.

If you're looking to buy some great local produce to cook up a storm at home, stop by Kitchen & Butcher to get your hands on delicious cheese, meats, and everything in between.  Get some further inspiration for a Healesville day trip here .

Take a look at all the accommodation in and around Healesville here .

Travel Time: 3 Hours Great For: Bush Walking

Halls Gap is situated right on the doorstep of Grampians National Park and is a great place to base yourself if you plan on tackling everything the Grampians has to offer.

The Grampians Peaks Trail is a 160km-long trail that takes around 13 days to complete. The newly built hike was completed in late-2021 and is an epic adventure for anyone who takes on the full trail.

Halls Gap is home to Victoria's largest regional zoo— Halls Gap Zoo . There are more than 160 different species of animals, including; American bison, giraffes, saltwater crocodiles, cheetahs and red pandas. Read more about the animals on show via the Halls Gap Zoo website .

On the food front, there are plenty of spots to get a great feed including the Halls Gap Bakery , Flame Brothers Restaurant & Bar , Kookaburra Hotel , Paper Scissors Rock , and the Halls Gap Tavern .  Get further inspiration for a Halls Gap and Grampians trip here .

If you're staying overnight, check out one of the most popular Airbnb's in the area, complete with a generous spa and indoor fireplace, here .

Queenscliff

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes great for: seafood.

Situated on the Bellarine Peninsula, the historic town of Queenscliff is the perfect spot for a day trip if you're into seafood.

Located on the head of Port Phillip Bay, Queenscliff harbour is a great spot to grab some fish and chips and watch the boats come in.

Mi Shells Seafood has fresh, locally caught seafood, Saltbush Fine Foods has a range of local produce and delicious dishes, and the Queenscliff Brewhouse & Distillery has more than 100 beers for you to get stuck into while you take in the bay views.

Other highlights of the area include grabbing a meal on the Q Train , which runs on the former Geelong to Queenscliff railway line, or charter a boat and head out onto the bay or beyond the heads into the Bass Strait.  Get  further inspiration for a Queenscliff trip here .

Daylesford 

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes great for: food & wine.

Daylesford is the ultimate destination to slow down and relax, surrounded by nature. This much-loved spot is in the foothills of the great dividing range, and has some of the best art and produce in the state. 

Back in the 1850s, Daylesford was one of Victoria’s illustrious gold rush towns, and the shine hasn’t worn off yet. There are plenty of unique spots to stay, but if you’re looking for a luxury getaway, look no further than The Lake House .

While you’re in town, check out the Convent Gallery, which features local and international artists and the Sunday Market , open each week rain, hail or shine. Take a walk around the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens and Lake Daylesford, and when you’re finished sit back and relax at Passing Clouds Winery . 

Another must-see is the Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm –a beautiful spot to explore for an entire day. And of course, no trip to Daylesford is complete without a visit 30 minutes North to Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa.

Daylesford is primed for a couples weekend away. Check out the best romantic accommodation for two here .

Travel Time: 1 hr 20 minutes Great For: Surfing 

Located along the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is the perfect spot for a seaside getaway. The town is the home of iconic surf brand Rip Curl, and each year hosts hundreds of surfers from around the world for the WSL at Bells Beach.

It’s the perfect spot to catch a wave, but if you’re not feeling like braving the cold water, you can head to the Australian National Surfing Museum instead. 

There’s plenty of good food and coffee in Torquay too. For the best Pho along the Great Ocean Road head to Pholklore , they also have delicious cocktails and DJs on the weekends. If you’re missing your Melbourne coffee order you can swing past Mavis Mavis or Ocean Grind , and for the ultimate Melbourne style brunch by the ocean, there’s The Salty Dog Cafe.  

Don’t forget to stop by the outlets to pick up some bargains, and if you need a break while shopping, have a drink at 4 Pines Brewery.

Metung 

Travel time: 4 hrs great for: hot springs & boating.

This small town is East Gippsland’s best-kept secret. Located four hours out of Melbourne, Metung is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The best way to see this little village is from the water–hire a boat for the day and explore the lush Gippsland lakes. When you’re finished, head to the local pub for fresh seafood overlooking the water.

For the ultimate relaxing experience, stop by The Metung Hot Springs . These geothermal pools have recently been transformed into a luxury bathing experience by the company that created the Peninsula Hot Springs. Enjoy soaking in mineral-rich, 45ºC water from a 500m deep bore, followed by a massage at the day spa. The perfect escape. 

There are plenty of places to stay right by the water in Metung, like this gorgeous Airbnb , where the jetty is more or less at your doorstep.

Travel Time: 1hr 15 minutes Great For: Food & Wine

It’s a big call, but Red Hill is the ultimate spot for food and wine lovers. Located in the hills of the Mornington Peninsula, it’s surrounded by vineyards and signs on the side of the road selling produce with an honesty system.

It’s difficult to narrow down the best food and wine spots, but three that you have to visit are; Polperro Winery for their wine tastings, Green Olive for their cheese platters, and Mont Rouge Estate for their chocolate.  If you’re in town on the first Saturday of the month (from September to May), make sure you stop by the Red Hill Market and pick up fresh produce, flowers and crafts. 

Make a weekend of your time in wine country and check out the best stays in the area here .

Olinda 

Travel time: 1 hr  great for: wilderness adventures.

Located among the towering forests of the Dandenong Ranges, is a small town called Olinda. The best things to do here are outside, so put on your walking shoes and get exploring. The Dandenong Ranges Botanical Gardens is a great place to start. With views over the Yarra Valley, it’s a perfect spot to highlight the beauty of this lush region. 

There are lots of cute stores to visit in Olinda and the surrounding towns, where you can try freshly made scones , award-winning pies , and pick up some locally made candles. Just up the road, you’ll find the ultimate lookout to catch the sunset, Sky High. There’s a restaurant on-site so you can grab a drink and food while you’re there. 

Commit to the theme and park up at this three-level treetop house for the night.

For more trips and things to do around Victoria, head to our Local Escapes section .

Image credit: Loch | Visit Victoria

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Regional Victoria

From world-class wineries to natural springs, lush mountain ranges to stunning coastlines, famous roads to national parks – Victoria is full of beauty and wonder waiting to be discovered.

Regional Victoria (also known as country Victoria) encompasses all the areas of the state of Victoria outside Melbourne. Regional Victoria contains much of Australia’s geographical and biological diversity.

Journey through our pristine forests; witness the dramatic scenery of our mountain ranges; taste the exotic flavours of our gourmet produce; walk along our many hiking trails; enjoy our many rivers and lakes; visit our many towns and attractions. There is so much to see and experience in regional Victoria.

Explore Victoria and everything Victoria has to offer with just a short drive from Melbourne.

Find out how to apply for a regional visa

Discover Victoria’s regions

Select the areas below to learn more about Victoria's diverse regions.

Barwon South West Region

The Barwon South West Region stretches from the border with South Australia to the tip of Queenscliff at Port Phillip Bay. This region includes Victoria’s largest regional city Geelong, the picturesque Great Ocean Road and welcoming coastal towns.

The Barwon South West Region has excellent education facilities, sports and recreation centres, as well as investment opportunities in agriculture and renewable energy.

Gippsland Region

Gippsland offers a variety of natural attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy: clean beaches, pristine rainforests, snowfields, hiking and riding trails, wineries and more.

Some of Gippsland’s key industries include dairy, fishing and energy. Gippsland is popular for its sports activities like water skiing, surfing and snow skiing.

Grampians Region

From the border with South Australia at Victoria’s west to the edge of metropolitan Melbourne at Melbourne’s east, the Grampians Region includes many townships, attractions and activities.

Try your luck at panning for gold at Sovereign Hill, explore the many historical Gold Rush sites, and witness the natural beauty of the Grampians National Park.

There is plenty to see and do in the Grampians Region, as well as many investment opportunities in areas such as renewable energy, food product manufacturing, agriculture and tourism.

Hume Region

The Hume Region is renowned for its world-class wines and gourmet food – it’s also part of the ‘food bowl of Australia’.

The region’s diversity – and new opportunities in key industries – will ensure steady economic development and jobs growth. This is reflected in Hume's population growth, which is projected to grow by over 38% before 2031.

Hume hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year such as the Bright Autumn Festival, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and the Australian Superbike Championship in Winton.

Loddon Mallee Region

The Loddon Mallee Region occupies more than a quarter of Victoria. With one of the most consistently warm climates in the State, people enjoy the region’s waterways, acclaimed restaurants and wineries, heritage towns and grand forests.

The Loddon Mallee Region has a growing economy in tourism, horticulture and manufacturing. Visit some of Victoria’s most famous town centres such as Bendigo, Castlemaine and Mildura.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria and the fastest growing city in Australia. A central business hub for Asia-Pacific, Melbourne offers excellent investment opportunities and is the world’s most liveable city.

Facts about Victoria

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10 Charming Towns Two Hours Or Less From Melbourne

These picturesque towns come with excellent markets, scenic lookouts , old-school architecture and more.

Victoria is in no short supply of charming country towns and picture-perfect villages . From those with 19 th Century enchantment and golden beginnings to seaside towns and mountain escapes, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy. If you’re looking to get out of the city, add these towns near Melbourne to your list of must-visit places. All of these towns are just under a two-hour drive from Melbourne , making them perfect for day trip adventures.

Table Of Contents

Notable mentions

Maldon, located 145kms northwest of Melbourne or just 40kms south of Bendigo, remains largely unchanged since its golden beginnings. Retaining much of its 19 th Century aesthetic , you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a set from another time.

Visitors keen on a blast from the past can take a ride in the steam train that departs Maldon Railway Station, explore the Maldon Vintage Machinery and Museum and dive into Maldon’s many gold-mining relics, ruins and artefacts like Union Hill Gold Mine or the Porcupine Flat Gold Dredge .

Declared Australia’s first notable town, Maldon has also got plenty of local gourmet food and wine to savour as well as a heap of boutique and antique shopping to keep daytrippers entertained. And once you’ve walked all over town, make your way up to Mount Tarrengower for a view. Or, step into the 150-year-old Kangaroo Hotel for a bite and a drink.

2. Trentham

Just north of the Wombat State Forest (got to love the name), Trentham offers city-slickers a quick country escape that’s bursting with nature, wildlife and a smattering of foodie options including wineries and orchards. It styles itself as “Cool Country” and just one day out in Trentham will show you just how cool it can be.

Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall (32m) can be found just a few minutes from the centre of the historic town so if you’re big fans of chasing waterfalls , then Trentham Falls has to be on your to-do list. You’re sure to find a great spot for a picnic stop nearby.

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Trek up to McLaughlins Lookout in Wombat State Forest for uninterrupted scenic views. Up top, you’ll find yourself gazing out across Mount Macedon, the You Yangs and the Dandenong Ranges while those keen on a jaunt through the forest can tackle the Domino Trail — an easy walk that will take you all the way to Lyonville along the railway line.

But, what about in town? Visit du Fermier for seasonal French farmhouse dishes from renowned chef Annie Smithers. Enjoy fresh vegetables picked from the garden alongside meat from the surrounding area. Head to RedBeard Bakery and feast on sourdough from their 140-year-old scotch oven. For classic pub fare, you can’t go wrong with The Cosmopolitan Hotel , which was built in 1866.

Gold had a huge part to play in Bendigo’s beginnings, and like Trentham, Victoria’s golden era has left a lasting impression on the state’s fourth most populous city , from authentic heritage attractions to cultural discovery and gastronomic offerings that make mouths water.

Since 2019, Bendigo has been a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy . For good reason, too. Bendigo’s only dedicated steakhouse, The Woodhouse , cooks their locally sourced produce with applewood in the charcoal-fired oven. Meanwhile, Alium Dining uses local and seasonal ingredients to push the boundaries. For sophisticated Asian fusion, you can’t miss Malayan Orchid, which serves up a tasty mix of Chinese and Malaysian cuisine. You can explore the area’s food and drink culture here .

For many, the Central Deborah Gold Mine is on the top of many to-do lists when visiting Bendigo. Descend 61 metres underground and discover a labyrinth of underground tunnels. Then, explore the surface of the mine with a gold panning experience, authentic mining buildings and more.

Other popular hotspots in Bendigo include the Bendigo Art Gallery and the Golden Dragon Museum . Bendigo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral the second-tallest church in Australia and the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion happens to be the largest Buddhist stupa in the western world.

If you feel like a gentle stroll, be sure to pop by Lake Weerona, the Bendigo Botanic Gardens and Rosalind Park. Visit Bendigo for their annual tulip display in spring for an extra dose of nature.

4. Daylesford

The beauty of Daylesford is no mystery to most Victorians. From the lavender farms to the day spas, the scenic walks to the uncovering of hundreds of vintage and antique goods , and boutique gallery visits followed by coffee at boutique cafes, there’s plenty to do in Daylesford.

So, where to start? If you’re after coffee (and by coffee we also mean breakfast), then Pancho Café on Vincent Street is a hot pick while Cliffy’s Emporium is also a solid choice. Once you’re all fuelled up, it’s time to hit the down and check out The Amazing Mill Markets for all the vintage finds under one massive roof.

Wander up to Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens , which is on top of an extinct volcano, and have a picnic with the help of Wombat Hill House . Then, climb up Pioneers Lookout Tower for splendid views of Daylesford and the surrounding areas. If you like walks, then you simply must stroll around the tranquil Lake Daylesford .

For your dose of art and culture, visit the beautiful Convent Gallery , which as you might guess from the name, is set in a former convent.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Convent Gallery Daylesford (@theconventdaylesford)

And, if you know anything about Daylesford, you’re probably aware that the surrounding area is graced with magical mineral waters. Hit up Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa where you’ll find not only mineral baths but also other spa facilities and therapies so that your mind, body and soul can relax and rejuvenate.

5. Healesville

East of Melbourne also boasts beautiful and charming country towns, and Healesville has got to be right up there as one of our favourite regional destinations. Located up in the Yarra Ranges, it’s not only home to the famous Healesville Sanctuary but it’s also got a plethora of wineries — Innocent Bystander, Boat O’Craigo and TarraWarra Estate to name just a few — as well as a great selection of brewers and distillers making a name for themselves.

When it comes to food, feast on a shared-style menu paired with organic wines at No. 7 Healesville . If you want to take something home, pick up some cheese, meat and hampers from Kitchen & Butcher .

Art aficionados can mosey on over to YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub, Hearth Galleries or head a little out of town to visit TarraWarra Museum of Art , a cultural icon in the region featuring the best of modern and contemporary art.

Since you’re in the area, you can find one of Australia’s most beautiful, scenic drives — Black Spur . It’s an hour-long, 36-kilometre drive linking Healesville with Marysville lined on either side with towering mountain ash trees and ferns. Also, a visit to Maroondah Reservoir Park is well worth a visit for some downtime.

6. Sassafras/Olinda

Sassafras or Olinda? Why not both? The two towns in the Dandenong Ranges are more than worth your time and, if you like, you can walk between the two in less than an hour — Olinda to Sassafras if you want to go more downhill than up.

Sassafras is all 19 th Century charm complete with the Alfred Nicholas Gardens (famous for its autumn colours and that iconic boatshed) and Miss Marple’s Tearoom , a traditional English tearoom inspired by none other than Agatha Christie.

Meanwhile, Olinda has the serene Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, complete with the newly opened Chelsea Australian Garden , which feature thousands of native plants, a waterfall and a billabong.

When in Olinda, make sure to the local art galleries and studios, handcrafted jewellery and fashion at local boutiques , as well as, sweet shops and antique stores , which you’ll also be able to find in Sassafras. However, what Sassafras does have that Olinda doesn’t is Geppetto’s Workshop — a paradise of wooden toys and puppets.

7. Jindivick

Way out east on your way to Warragul, you’ll come across a tiny yet delightful town called Jindivick. Take in majestic views of rolling hills, explore the beautiful Garden at Broughton Hall and wander through the Sculpture Garden by artist Laurie Collins.

When it comes to food, you can’t go past The Caf’, Gypsy Creek Winery , or Brandy Creek Estate .

All of that’s on offer in this tiny charming town but you’ve still got plenty of walks you can go on including the famous Jacksons Track (it’s also the title of Daryl Tonkin’s memoir), several in Nangara Reserve and around Glen Cromie by the Tarago River , which is replete with facilities for a fantastic day out.

Loch it in even if you’ve never been to this swell South Gippsland town. Once you go, you’ll know exactly why it’s on this list. But if you need some convincing, the local council website describes it as a picture-perfect town “almost like something out of a fairy tale” .

With the stunning Strzelecki Ranges in the background , the alluring town is all 20th-century buildings housing boutique stores and quaint cafés . From Yakkity Yak, which sources its wares from Nepal and beyond, to all the antiques you didn’t know you want from Carringtons, you’ll be enamoured — but, they are by no means the only shops you’ll find. Explore the main street and surrounds and you won’t be disappointed.

With all the fabulous local produce around town, you can bet on finding some great foodie places for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. From Olive at Loch for all kinds of baked goods to Loch Village Foodstore & Café and The Loch Grocer , you’re well covered. When it’s time for drinks, hit up Loch Brewery & Distillery, Loch Wine Bar and the Gippsland Wine Company .

The Loch Suspension Bridge is a must for all tourists to the area.

9. Red Hill

Melburnians need no introduction to the Mornington Peninsula. And those who’ve done their research know all about Red Hill — the hidden hinterland town between Dromana and Shoreham. It might not have beaches, but they’re not at all far away and who cares when this place is peppered with wineries, farms, restaurants and cafes .

When it comes to meats, Red Gum BBQ makes America proud while modern Australian cuisine is well represented with the likes of Montalto, Max’s at Red Hill Estate and Port Phillip Estate (both its dining room and cellar door).

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Red Hill is also home to the Ripe n Ready Cherry Farm which are favourites in summer while the Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery is a more-than popular choice when the flowers are blooming . Combine with a wine tasting — say from Mount Rouge Estate or Polperro Winery — and you’ve got a spectacular day planned.

10. Queenscliff

Not to be outdone, the Bellarine Peninsula has its own charming town. Known as the “grand dame” by some, they say that Queenscliff is reminiscent of an English seaside resort , oozing elegance and overflowing with history.

The town, which was renamed in 1854 to honour Queen Victoria, features Victorian-era hotels, wide boulevards peppered with antique stores, and some pretty dignified-looking churches . A walk through town, especially down Hesse Street, will showcase some of the best sights, from lookouts to landmarks. Make sure you walk along the foreshore and stroll down the century-old Queenscliff Pier.

Step into the maritime and historical museums for a blast from the past or join a guided tour of Fort Queenscliff , which was built in 1860 and served to protect the entrance of Port Phillip Bay.

But if history doesn’t float your boat, visitors to Queenscliff can do a spot of snorkelling and immerse themselves in the colourful world of the sea at Pope’s Eye, part of the Port Phillip Heads Marine Park , or get tickets to the Queenscliff Music Festival . It takes place on the last weekend in November and is actually so popular that tickets sell out well in advance.

If you’d like to explore the Bellarine even further, hop on The Q Train . Journey along a heritage rail line between Drysdale and Queenscliff, and enjoy a degustation that showcases the best seasonal produce that the Bellarine Peninsula has to offer. If you don’t feel like travelling, don’t worry. Queenscliff is packed with options when it comes to food so you won’t be disappointed.

The ten charming Victorian towns near Melbourne that we’ve mentioned are by no means an exhaustive list. There are plenty more beautiful, scenic and memorable towns you can visit in a two-hour drive (or less) from Melbourne. Notable mentions of other lovely towns near Melbourne we haven’t been able to include in this list (next time) include Castlemaine, Kyneton, Macedon, Ballarat, Clunes and Maryborough.

And, there are plenty more if you’re willing to drive a little longer and a little farther away.

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Mum's Little Explorers

• Travel in Victoria

13 Best Places to Visit in Victoria For Families | Regional Holiday Guide

by mumslittleexplorers · July 3, 2023

There are so many beautiful holiday destinations in Victoria for families or any type of travellers. From the beautiful seaside towns on the southern coast, to destinations in the mountains or forest, here are our top 10 best places to visit in Victoria.

Victoria Holiday Destinations

Planning a holiday in regional Victoria? Well, you are spoiled for choice.

Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway to somewhere close to Melbourne, or planning a longer trip further out towards the border, we have rounded up the best Victorian holiday destinations you should consider.

Here are the best places to visit in Victoria for families.

1. Phillip Island

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Victoria is Phillip Island. Depending on where you are based in Melbourne, you can reach Phillip Island within a 2-3hrs so it makes a great weekend getaway for families.

There are plenty of family friendly hotels and Air bnb’s, as well as a holiday park for campers too.

The penguin parade is the main attraction and it is amazing being able to watch the penguins returning to the shore.

Other things to do include a visit to the koala conservation park, the seal wildlife boat tours , Phillip Island Go Karts , A Maze’n Things , and of course the walking trails and the beautiful beaches.

Read More: Things to do Phillip Island

2. The Grampians

The Grampians National Park is around three hours west from Melbourne, and if you love hiking and staying close to nature, it is one of the perfect places to visit in Victoria.

The most popular base is Halls Gap where you will be able to visit a number of natural attractions within walking distance or a short drive.

Other places such as Lake Fyans are also really nice. There are a couple of holiday parks if you like to camp, otherwise Air bnb’s are everywhere and if you go off peak, accommodation is quite inexpensive.

For families, you can walk to the Venus Baths or around the Fyans Loop, both leaving from Halls Gap. For adventure hikes check out MacKenzie Falls, and the Pinnacle.

Read More : Things to do in the Grampians

3. Warrnambool

The last stop along the Great Ocean Road is Warnambool, a beautiful historical town, known as the shipwreck coast. It is just under 3 hours south west of Melbourne if you drive inland directly there.

However, the more scenic route is along the Great Ocean Road where you can take a road trip and stop off at different places along the way. It will take you just over five hours to get there along the coast, but with stops that include the Great Otway National Park and the famous Twelve Apostles you can make a day of it.

Once you get there, you will find something for everyone. From stunning beaches, to whale watching tours and historical museums, this quiet picturesque town will certainly impress.

Read More: Things to do in Warrnambool

Bright, in the Alpine Valley northern Victoria is a great regional holiday for a family holiday all year round, especially for those who love the outdoors. There are plenty of walking and cycling tracks for all abilities, a cinema, and lots of cafes and restaurants for foodies.

During the winter it is an affordable ski holiday destination offering lots of family accommodation where you can stay to explore Mt Hotham and Falls Creek.

In the Summer there is Ovens River where the kids can take a dip to cool off. Read More: Best things to do in Bright

5. Ballarat

Ballarat is filled with family friendly activities and is only an hour and a half from Melbourne out west.

You can visit the wildlife park and feed the kangaroos. Head to Sovereign Hill where you are transformed back in time to the days of the gold rush and can dig for gold. Winter time they hold their famous Winter Wonderlights which are a definitely worth a visit.

At Kryal Castle , the kids will love to get lost in the maze, watch the “royal joust”, or try their best at a game or archery. In the warmer weather, there I also the outdoor pool.

Read More: Things to do in Ballarat

6. Marysville

In the east of Melbourne, about an hour and half from the city, you can find the gorgeous little town of Marysville with a famous bakery serving up delicious pastries.

At the foot of Lake Mountain , it makes a great winter holiday destination in regional Victoria for families especially as it is easy to get to the snow for the day. It is also a great spot to explore the Yarra Valley.

Read More: Things to do Yarra Valley

Echuca is one of the most laid back places to visit in Victoria any time of the year. Set on the Murray River, this historical town is rich in history and there are so many things to do in Echuca that you will want to come back over and over.

The paddle steamers are by far the most iconic attraction where you can glide down the Murray river. There are also various water sports opportunities, boat and jetski hire and more.

If you are a foodie or love wine, there are plenty of wineries to visit, as well as restaurants and cafes.

Echuca is a great spot to getaway from the hustle and bustle and if you don’t feel like doing anything, you can just relax on the river and enjoy the sound of nature.

Read More: Best things to do in Echuca

8. Lakes Entrance and Gippsland

Gippsland is the largest region in Victoria and a beautiful spot for a regional family holiday. There are lots of small country towns, national parks and coastal villages with a range of accommodation options. 

One of the biggest towns to visit is Lakes Entrance , which is famous for the stunning 90-mile beach. You can spend your days swimming in the pristine waters, explore the rockpools, or even try your luck at fishing. In the cooler weather you can go for a bike ride or family walk, there are plenty of different trails.

Whether you are looking for a family beach holiday, outdoor sports, or a quiet getaway, there is something to please everyone. Read More: Things to do Lakes Entrance

Towards the start of the Great Ocean Road , the beautiful seaside town of Lorne makes a great regional holiday destination in Victoria. Just a 2 hour drive from Melbourne, Lorne is famous for the epic views from Teddy’s Lookout, the friendly koalas, and the numerous waterfalls all within a short drive of the town.

Lorne is perfect for a family beach getaway. The main beach is the perfect place to let kids run free or paddle in the waves as there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months. It is also one of the safest places along the Great Ocean Road to learn to surf.

In the cooler months, check out Live Wire Park for a day out where you can zipline through the trees. Or head to Erskin Falls which is one of the best waterfalls in Lorne for a family walk ending with gorgeous views.

Read More: Things to do in Lorne

10. Wilsons Prom

Nature and beach lovers will love the Things to do in Wilson’s Promontory , or “The Prom” as we in Victoria call it. This national park on the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, about 3.5hrs east of Melbourne

It is the perfect place to visit in Victoria for those who love to walk, hike, hit the beach, or just sit by a campfire.

There are plenty of accommodation options nearby, but you can actually stay inside the national park surrounded by stunning views and filled with wildlife such as wombats, kangaroos, possums, and more.

Spend your days swimming in the nearby beaches Whiskey bay and the famous Squeaky beach. Have a stroll on the Lilly Pilly Nature Walk , or hike one of the nearby peaks, Mount Oberon or Mount Bishop .

Read More: Things to do in Wilsons Prom

11. Mallacoota

Mallacoota is a pretty little coastal holiday destination in Victoria’s East, just before the border of New South Wales. Just over six hours away from Melbourne, it makes a great road trip for families who want to get away for a long period rather than just a weekend getaway.

Mallacoota is blessed with Victoria’s warmest winters, and sizzling summers, so it is a popular place to visit any time of the year.

There is plenty to do, whether you are up for some adventurous activities like snorkelling or boating, or just want to lie one of the beautiful beaches and enjoy the stunning sunsets.

12. Apollo Bay

Situated 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne, Apollo Bay offers something for everyone. This stunning coastal town is one of the best holiday destinations in Regional Victoria as it is blessed with both the nearby Great Otway National Park, and the rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road.  

There are so many things to do nearby that you are spoiled for choice. Whether you want to go hiking in the picturesque Otway Ranges, sleeping under the koalas at Bimbi Park , walking the treetops at the Otway Fly, photograph the iconic 12 Apostles, admire the thriving wildlife, or just relax on the beach, it makes a great trip for the whole family.

Read More: Things to do in Apollo Bay

13. Yarrawonga

Just under 3 hours from Melbourne along the northern border of New South Wales, is Yarrawonga. If you love life by the water, this is the perfect holiday in regional Victoria.

There is plenty of things to do for families including boating, fishing, water skiing, or wake boarding. The walking trails throughout the Yarrawonga Regional Park are stunning, and you can spend hours exploring the red gum forest.

If you are a foodie or wine lover, head to the vineyards to sip on local wine and taste some of the local produce such as olives, and cheese.

There is plenty of different types of accommodation and plenty of spots to camp if you like to get out in nature.

Things to do in Victoria, Australia

Hopefully this list of holiday destinations in regional Victoria has inspired you to get out and explore our state. There are so many things to do in Victoria, you just need to get out and explore it to enjoy it!

• Best waterfalls in Victoria
• Best beaches in Victoria

Looking for family fun in Melbourne? Take a look at our  Melbourne For Kids  page,  Follow Mum’s Little Explorers on Facebook,  or join our Facebook Community Group  What’s on Melbourne for Kids

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia)

15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia)

Victoria is a great place to travel, and a great place to live, too: its state capital, Melbourne, has been ranked the most liveable city 6 years in a row by the Economist, and it’s also been voted the world city with the best coffee, beating out the traditional favorites of Rome and Vienna.

But with 2.6 million international visitors flocking to Victoria in 2016 alone, there’s plenty to offer outside of Melbourne’s urban buzz: drive the famed Great Ocean Road, relax on the beach at a coastal village, enjoy the splendour of a national park, or check out the adorable little fairy penguin colony at Phillip Island.

There’s so much to do in Victoria that if you can, devote a few weeks to exploring. You’ll experience a fascinating insight into Australian city and country culture, meet plenty of friendly locals, and make memories to last a lifetime.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Victoria :

1. Grampians National Park

This stunning national park boasts exceptionally scenic diversity: from rugged sandstone ridges to lush waterfalls and colorful Spring wildflowers, you’ll find many picture-perfect shots for your photo album: the sunset views are an absolute must-see.

The Grampians are the home to many Australian marsupials and native birds, so it’s a great spot for fauna-spotting while you enjoy the many walking trails in the area  There’s also fascinating examples of ancient indigenous art.

If you make a small trip outside the park to Ararat or Halls Gap, there’s plenty of gorgeous modern art by local studios too, and Ararat is a popular destination in its own right, particularly interesting for its eerie ghost tours.

From Melbourne : Grampians National Park Great Escape Tour

2. Torquay and the Great Ocean Road

Torquay is an adorable seaside resort town known for being the gateway to the Great Ocean Road, but it’s well worth a visit in its own right: its famous for its surf beaches, including the world famous Bells Beach, and if you visit during Easter you’ll be able to see some of the world’s best surfers in action at the Bells Beach Rip Curl Pro.

The Surf Coast walk is a wonderful, relaxing journey, or you could just enjoy some sunbathing! If you’re in the mood for a romantic holiday destination, Torquay is perfect: the Surfcoast Cottages and Bells Estate Cottages are adorable, and there’s plenty of tasty dining options here.

From Torquay, many travelers will continue onto the Australian Heritage-listed 243-km Great Ocean Road, the backdrop for many an international car commercial with its gorgeous coastal and mountain views, charming towns like Apollo Bay, and yet more of the pristine white-sand beaches that Australia is rightly world-famous for.

Book online : Reverse Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip

3. Great Otway National Park

The Otways are a very popular detour for drivers on the Great Ocean Road, and are considered an iconic Victorian experience; they’re popular with locals, interstate and international travelers alike.

Stop in a few towns on your way, and make sure to take the time to explore the Great Otway National Park (if you’re a daredevil, maybe even try the zipline!)

4. Phillip Island

Just under 2 hours by car, with a bridge linking it to the mainland, Phillip Island is a popular day-tripping destination for Melbournites and tourists alike.

The island is best known for its adorable colony of Little Penguins, one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions.

The penguins return to shore en masse every sunset; visitors can view them from several different locations, such as the Penguin Parade viewing platform or the underground facility; there’s also the option of the Ultimate Penguin Tour, which offers a more personal and intimate penguin encounter.

The visitor centre is also very informative and interesting.

Visiting the penguin colony is a must-do, but there’s plenty more on Phillip Island to enjoy: a koala conservation centre, an animal park, and Warook Farm – a fully working farm which is over a century old.

The island is also for its excellent beaches, which are popular with swimmers and surfers alike, as well as various family-oriented activities such as the Islantis Surf Experience, A Maze’n Things, a chocolate factory, and a summer carnival that has been running for over 50 years.

The island also boasts several wineries, and many excellent restaurants.

Complete day trip: Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

5. Alpine National Park

The Alpine National Park is home to two of Victoria’s best known mountains, Mt Buller and Mt Hotham, both of which operate alpine resorts that are famous throughout Australia as winter sports destinations.

Of course, spring and summer in the Alpine National Park is an entirely different experience, so it’s worth making trips at various times of year to the Park if you have the chance! The scenery is stunning, with gorgeous flora and fauna, especially in wildflower season.

The walking and biking trails are great for an outdoorsy holiday.

Both Mt Hotham and Mt Buller offer a variety of summer activities and events, from abseiling to fireworks and film festivals, so it’s worth checking their respective websites to see what’s on.

Bendigo offers a fascinating insight into Victoria’s past.

Located just under 2 hours drive from Melbourne, as well as being easily accessible by train, Bendigo was a gold rush boomtown in the Victorian era.

There are many well-preserved examples of Victorian architecture in the town, making Bendigo famous for its heritage buildings and gold rush history alike; at one point, the output of Victoria’s goldmines were higher than anywhere else in the world besides California, with almost 1 million kilograms of gold having been extracted in Bendigo alone since mining began in the 1850s.

Like the gold rushes in the US, the Victorian gold rush brought in an influx of migrants from within Australia and overseas, transforming the town from a quiet sheep station to a major settlement.

Some popular sites for heritage and cultural tourists to visit in this now-thriving modern city are the Discovery of Gold Monument, the Bendigo Tramways Museum, the Golden Dragon museum (which commemorates the Chinese population which developed during the gold rush, peaking at 20% of the town’s population in the 1860s) and the Joss House Temple, as well as several buildings that are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register: the Bendigo Town Hall (built in 1859), the Old Post Office, the Law Courts (1892), the Sacred Heart Cathedral (1896), Shamrock Hotel (1897), and the Memorial Military Museum (1921).

The growing city has much to offer beyond heritage and cultural tourism: lovely national parks, a science museum, the excellent Bendigo Art Gallery, and the Bendigo Botanic Gardens which overlook the gorgeous Lake Weeroona.

For a wonderfully informative taste gold rush history, the Central Deborah Goldmine can’t be beat – this subterranean tour of a genuine historical mine shaft is a very memorable experience (although perhaps not ideal for the claustrophobic). You can even pan for gold at the end of your visit!

7. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness area is beloved by locals and tourists alike, with the opportunity to get close to a wide variety of Australian native flora and fauna; “the Prom”, as it is nicknamed, is the home to many kangaroos, emus, wombats, echidnas, and gorgeous birdlife.

As the Prom is well-touristed, these animals are very used to people, and will be very friendly to you if you’ve got some feed to offer! The walking trails at the Prom are lovely, and it’s also a great spot for relaxing on the beach.

It’s a popular location for camping, but also for romantic getaways, so you’re sure to find accommodation that suits your needs as well.

Available tour : Wilsons Promontory: 2.5-Hour Wilderness Cruise

8. Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a lovely little day-trip from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne; just over an hour away (and a very pleasant drive), you’ll find a different world.

The peninsula is famous for its wineries, cherries and berries, as well as produce straight from the farm-gate (and tasty restaurant fare, as well!). It’s also a popular foraging spot, including for sea spray herb, seaweed and mushrooms (Mushroom Tours offers helpful advice on distinguishing from the poisonous and the palatable!)

Like many regional attractions, the gorgeous walking trails on the peninsula shouldn’t be missed, but there’s also plenty to do in the towns.

The Peninsular Hot Spring in Sorrento are particularly enjoyable, especially as natural hot springs in Australia are few and far between.

Rosebud and Rye boast many family attractions, and if you’re in the mood for a beachside tipple, Portsea has a lovely pub.

The bright, colorful shacks along the beach at Mount Martha make it well worth a visit too.

There are several national parks on the peninsula, spanning over 25,000 hectares in total.

They include lovely sites such as Cape Schank (home of a lighthouse build in 1859 which still operates today, as well as being a perfect spot to catch the sunset).

Book online : Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour

• 9.  Healesville Sanctuary

Located in the heart of the scenic Yarra Valley, this sanctuary is widely considered to be the best spot in Australia to see and interact with Australian wildlife in unspoiled natural habitat.

Get up close and personal with all manner of famous Aussie animals: kangaroos, koalas, emus, wombats and even platypuses (the sanctuary’s most iconic species). There’s also several interesting “wild encounters” available, such as “wombat pat & play”, “wade with the platypus” and a dingo encounter (apparently they sometimes give visitors a kiss on the cheek!) These uniquely Australian experiences make the sanctuary a trip to remember.

Book online : Healesville Sanctuary General Admission Ticket

10. St Kilda

Melbourne has a lot to offer visitors, but a particular must-see is St Kilda.

This suburb boasts a wide range of attractions, from beachside relaxation to a thriving nightlife scene, the famous Esplanade Markets, and some of the best food in the city (if not the state). The suburb is quite ethnically diverse, and Acland Street in particular is well-known for its Greek and Jewish bakeries and cake shops, so it’s a perfect spot if you’ve got a sweet tooth.

There’s also many vegetarian restaurants here (particularly noteworthy is the pay-as-you-feel Lentil as Anything).

St Kilda is also known for its boutique shopping, vintage finds, and its iconic colorful beach shacks.

The pier is gorgeous, especially when it’s lit up at night and you can go penguin-spotting.

The botanic gardens are also a lovely way to work up an appetite for the excellent local fare (or alternatively, work off that delicious cake!)

You’ll also find Luna Park here, an iconic amusement park opened in 1912. The Scenic Railway was opened in the Park the same year, making it the world’s oldest continually-operating rollercoaster (with fantastic views of Port Phillip Bay). It’s free to enter, just pay for what you ride, and it’s fun even just for a walk around.

11. Fitzroy

Fitzroy is described by Time Out as an “inner-city mecca for all things cool and kooky”; vintage shopping, a vibrant bar and pub scene, a thriving alternative subculture, and delicious restaurants serving a wide range of Australian and international food, generally at very reasonable prices.

The best thing about Fitzroy is definitely the atmosphere – it’s a fun area just for a wander around – but there’s also lots of live music events going on at any time, as well as a variety of markets, art events, etc.

A visit to the in.cube8r Fitzroy Emporium and Gallery is also highly recommended.

12. Carlton Gardens

The Carlton Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a short walk from Melbourne’s city centre.

The complex includes the Royal Exhibition Building, Imax Cinema, and Melbourne Museum, all of which are well worth a visit.

The gardens are a gorgeous example of Victorian landscaping, as well as being noteworthy for their biodiversity.

The Royal Exhibition Building is a very attractive example of heritage architecture.

You’ll also find plenty of wildlife in the area, such as possums, kookaburras, and tawny frogmouths; there’s even bats at night! There are three major fountains in the complex as well: the Exhibition, French and Westgarth Drinking fountains.

The area makes for a pleasant and easily accessible day out for Melbournians and visitors to the city.

13. Daylesford

Daylesford is a gorgeous spa town roughly an hour and a half from Melbourne, making it very popular with both locals and tourists.

Originally established as a gold-mining town, Daylesford has been a popular spa destination for a century.

The town is famous for its natural spring mineral spas; the broader area of the town and surrounds are home to over 80% of Australia’s effervescent mineral water.

As well as its many spas, Daylesford is known for its wineries, galleries, restaurants, and its gorgeous lake views.

The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens are also a lovely attraction, and the stunning Hepburn Regional Park is only a stone’s throw away.

14. Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges are a low mountain range on the outskirts of Melbourne, 35km from the city centre.

Gorgeous, lush and green, they make for a popular nature day-trip for the locals, as well as a must-see for tourists.

In particular, the popular Puffing Billy scenic railroad is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Ranges.

The highest point is Mount Dandenong, at 633 metres.

You’ll find great farm-gate produce here, breathtaking bushwalks, lovely bed-and-breakfasts, sweet little towns, immaculate gardens, and well-preserved Australian architecture.

There’s also plenty of wildlife to encounter in the Ranges: kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and more!

15. Ballarat

Ballarat is another famed gold-rush boom town, now a thriving city with great cafes and restaurants, and many events to attract the modern traveler as well (the Ballarat Beer Festival and the Summer of Sound are particularly popular). The Ballarat Art Gallery is also a must-see, a stroll around the lake is a fun way to while away some time, and the Ballarat Wildlife Park is a great spot for a koala fix!

Like Bendigo, it has done a fantastic job of preserving its history: there are plenty of examples of heritage architecture to be found, and the fascinating Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka is actually located on the historic site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade, the site of a renowned rebellion against the colonial authority of the UK that was a crucial moment in the history of Australia’s road to becoming an independent democracy.

Sovereign Hill is a particularly enjoyable tourist site in Ballarat; this open-air museum and historical park has been described as Australia’s best outdoor museum, and it will truly make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the heady days of the beginning of the gold rush over 150 years ago! The experience is very authentic, and highly informative; you can go underground and enjoy a fully-guided gold mine tour, visit 1850s shops, see steam-driven machinery in operation, and have a chat with the various fully-costumed staff members “plying their trades” as candlemakers, wheelwrights and candy-makers of yore.

(Of course, it’s also a fantastic spot for photo opportunities!)

8km outside of Ballarat, you’ll find Kryal Castle, biling itself as “Australia’s only medieval adventure park and resort”. There’s something a little out-of-place about jousting knights and dragons in the middle of Australia at the height of summer, but it’s still a lot of fun, and fantastic to keep any smaller travelers in your group entertained.

15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia):

• Grampians National Park
• Torquay and the Great Ocean Road
• Great Otway National Park
• Phillip Island
• Alpine National Park
• Wilsons Promontory National Park
• Mornington Peninsula
• Carlton Gardens
• Dandenong Ranges

The Most Charming Country TOWNS IN VICTORIA

There are plenty of pretty small towns in Victoria that are just perfect for a quick getaway or weekend day trip from Melbourne . Today, we share a collection that in our experience offers a mix of natural beauty, great food, and, of course, country charm!

Before you get started, we know some of these towns are technically cities; however, they still have a small-town vibe and warrant their spot in our collection of some of the best examples of towns in Victoria.

Warrnambool

Healesville, metung – gippsland, map – towns in victoria perfect for a road trip.

This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here .

Charming towns in Victoria: A guide for travellers

This list of towns in Victoria results from a collaboration with locals and nomads who have taken the time to share their tips for exploring their favourite country towns. If you are planning a lap of Australia , these towns should all be on your list.

Don’t worry if you are not sure where they are – we have included google map links on each place a map at the bottom of the page to help you find them.

Where it is possible to reach these towns easily by public transport, I have included all the details you need!

Dunkeld is a beautiful small town at the southern tip of the Grampians/Gariwerd mountain range. If you are planning to visit the Grampians , staying a couple of nights in Dunkeld is a great idea so you can experience the delicious food and gorgeous walks the town offers.

The Dunkeld Arboretum is accessible for all, and wandering around the beautiful space overlooked by Mt Sturgeon/Wurgarri is a lovely walk to enjoy. If you feel more adventurous, a hike up Mt Sturgeon or Mt Abrupt/Mud-Dadjug will provide gorgeous views over Dunkeld. Next to Mt Sturgeon is the smaller mountain, The Piccaninny/Bainggug, perfect for climbing with kids.

If food is more your style, Dunkeld does not disappoint! The well-known Royal Mail Hotel features a range of dining options. The Wickens Restaurant is the ultimate culinary experience, and the Parker Street Project is a casual dining option with some really interesting options at reasonable prices. Koopmans is another excellent choice for yummy St Ali coffee and food, plus you can check out the on-site art gallery while you wait.

Where to stay in Dunkeld With stunning views of Mt Sturgeon, you can stay at the Royal Mail in a mountain view room or indulge in the restored bluestone cottages at the Mt Sturgeon property, a 5-minute drive from the hotel. Dunkeld Old Bakery was first established in 1887 and has the most delicious, handcrafted baked goods. The historic bakery also features accommodation in the old baker’s residence , perfect for couples. Other accommodation options in Dunkeld include Salt Creek Cottage, Dunkeld Caravan Park and Southern Grampians Cottages .

Where is Dunkeld A 3-hour drive west of Melbourne, a visit here is easily combined with a stay in Halls Gap. Don’t have a car? You can take a train to Ballarat then jump on a bus to reach the town.

Google Map location

Suggested by Kate from Travel around Bendigo.

The seaside town of Warrnambool has a bit of everything; history and rugged coastline, wildlife, and family activities. At over 3 hours west of Melbourne, it is far enough away to feel you’re escaping the city, but Warrnambool is still big enough to cater for all types of travellers.

Despite its size, Warrnambool has an untamed feel. It’s in an area known as the Shipwreck Coast. The combination of the town’s maritime history and spectacular coastline are central to many of Warrnambool’s attractions.

Flagstaff Hill Pioneer Village brings to life the area’s history. There are old-style shops, interactive displays and an evening sound and light show. The Thunder Point walk and lookout is a great way to get a sense of the dramatic coastline.

For families, Lake Pertobe is a fun place to explore. There are lakes, playgrounds, a maze, and the kids can even zoom around the lake on little motorboats. The park is just a minute or two from several of the town’s caravan parks.

For nature lovers, between June and September, Warrnambool is a popular whale-watching spot. If you want a fix of cute, you have to meet the Maremmas that guard the penguin colony on Middle Island.

There are lots of day trips you can do from Warrnambool. The Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles are less than an hour away. A must-do for foodies is the Artisan Gourmet Trail that starts at Timboon, about 40 minutes from Warrnambool.

Where to stay in Warrnambool We stay in caravan parks, and there are plenty to choose from in Warrnambool. They are right on the beach and close to the foreshore and Lake Pertobe. Try the council caravan park at the Killarney Beach oval 20 minutes west of Warrnambool if you want something quieter.

Suggest by Natalie from Curious Campers

Ballarat, the second oldest city in the state of Victoria, and while not exactly a small town in the strictest sense, it is a lovely town centre to explore.

Ballarat is home to a wide variety of attractions, including one of our favourites Sovereign Hill, a living history museum that depicts life in Ballarat during the gold rush era.

The buildings, particularly those on Sturt and Lydiard Street, highlight the area’s wealth in the mid-1800s. You could take this self-guided heritage walk or book with the local experts who run Ballarat Heritage Walking Tours .

There are also many art galleries, including the Gold Museum, whose exhibits include rare minerals, fossils, and gemstones.

The region’s history is visible throughout the city and not just at Sovereign Hill, so make sure you allow some time to wander. While the former gold rush town has plenty to offer all travellers, it will delight those with a passion for colonial Australia.

Where to stay in Ballarat There are some lovely historic properties here and two we particularly like. Firstly the George Hotel (Quality Inn) on Lydiard Street in the heart of town. It was built in 1854, and while the building retains its heritage features, the rooms are modern and spacious. If you fancy a splurge, then check out Craig’s Royal Hotel, also on Lydiard Street. Their superior suite was lovely, but I would have loved to have booked the Royal Suite, we peeked inside, and it looked fit for a king!

How to get to Ballarat Only a little over an hour from Melbourne by car, Ballarat can also easily be reached by train from the city. A local bus service connects to Sovereign Hill.

Halls Gap in Victoria’s western districts is a great base for exploring the magnificent Grampians National Park. The Grampians are exceptional, from the flat semi-arid countryside to the step rising mountains with their rock faces and alpine vegetation.

You will find there is no shortage of  things to do in Halls Gap  and the surrounding area. Despite a permanent population of only 480 people, Halls Gap always seems busy with nature-loving tourists coming and going. Waterfalls, lookouts and hiking are the most popular activities in the region.

Make a stop at Brambuk: The National Park and Cultural Centre to learn more about the traditional owners of the land of Gariwerd/The Grampians.

You will find several wineries, breweries, and farms selling local produce, including olives, jams, and various fruit. While for kids, there is the ever-popular Halls Gap Zoo , Grampians Adventure Golf and the e-bike hire in Halls Gap.

Don’t miss a chance to check out some of the best waterfalls in the state, including McKenzie and Silverband Falls.

Where to stay in Halls Gap The local YHA Grampians Eco hostel is a fantastic place to stay with a good-sized room, outstanding facilities and close to the centre of Halls Gap.

Where is Halls Gap Halls Gap and the Grampians National Park are around 3 hours away from Melbourne via the Western Highway. Travel by public transport is difficult and probably best avoided.

Suggested by Bec of Wyld Family Travel

Bendigo was one of the central points of the gold rush back in the 1850s. We loved strolling around the centre of town taking in all the stunning heritage buildings. The quality of the restorations from this period give the town a unique character and provide clues to what the town will have looked like back in its heyday.

From the imposing Town Hall building in the centre of the CBD to the smaller shop fronts with lattice covered awnings, the variety in the architecture alone is worth the two hour trip from Melbourne. Ballerat is one of the most historic small towns in Victoria and its so easy to get here.

If the town’s history interests you, then the Central Deborah Gold Mine is a great place to start your visit. Tours run regularly each day and take you to depths of 61, 85 and 228 metres below the surface.

We cringed at the working conditions of years gone by, and the stories our guided shared were fascinating.

The mine complex is at the end of the line for the vintage trams that run through town. So leave the car there and take advantage of the hop-on/off tram line for the rest of your day.

The first stop is right outside the Town Hall building mentioned earlier. From here, we walked over to the Botanical Garden next door. It’s a small garden with the highlight being the large tower at the top of the hill that you can climb to get the best views in the district. Unfortunately, the high wire fences make it hard to get a nice picture up there, but we thought the view was still excellent.

From here, the art gallery is a two-minute walk. If that is not your thing, walk past anyway. The street here is one of the best for that old architecture, and the gallery also has a couple of funny-looking sculptures out the front.

The boardwalk at Lake Weeroona and the Joss Temple are the other main stops on the tram line, but we skipped these.

Where to stay in Bendigo If you want the full colonial experience, you can stay in the Hotel Shamrock. This majestic structure is 150+ years old and is worth seeing from the outside even if you don’t want to stay there. Alternatively, there is also Quest Bendigo , or a lovely vineyard stay at Byronsvale just 4km from the town.

Sorrento is a lesser-known beautiful small town at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula , just a short drive of an hour and a half from Melbourne, making it  the perfect weekend getaway . I think this is one of the prettiest small coastal towns in Victoria.

The highlights for me are its pristine turquoise beaches, and the foreshore area. You could take long walks and if you time it right, photographs of the beautiful sunsets. Both the beachfront and the main street are lined with lovely eating places, art galleries and shops.

There are some lovely options for trails and hikes – a popular one that we do every time we visit is the Millionaire’s walk and the Sorrento-Portsea Artists’ Trail.

There is a lot of history here too. At the furthest tip of this peninsula, Fort Nepean is one of the fortifications that protected Melbourne during the World Wars with a tunnel complex and gun emplacements. We enjoyed discovering the coastal treks and trails with panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay. 

Where to stay in Sorrento We love the Sorrento Beach Motel ; it’s more than a motel with ample parking space, helpful staff and a delicious spread of breakfast. If you prefer an apartment, take a look at Carmel at Sorrento or Oceanic Sorrento just a few minutes from the water.

Explore more : There is an hourly ferry service from the ferry terminal at the end of the pier to another small seaside town Queenscliff.

Suggested by Jan from Leisurely Drives

One of the most charming small towns in Victoria, Healesville began as a track to goldfields located in the area in the 1800s. In 1889 the train line arrived, and it was transformed into a tourist getaway. Today, Healesville is a thriving town of just under 8,000 people.

Nicholson Street is the main street and is a beautiful tree-lined street with boutique shops, cafes and pubs. A busy town during the week, Healesville comes alive on the weekend thanks to visitors coming to the markets and riding the historic Yarra Valley Railway. There are also plenty of walking tracks, art exhibitions at the nearby TarraWarra Museum of Art and don’t forget wine tasting at some world-renowned wineries.

However, Healesville is best known for being home to the Healesville Sanctuary, a wildlife reserve and premier Victorian attraction.

The Healesville Sanctuary is located 4km south of Healesville township. It is easy to find; just follow the signs. On a daily basis, hundreds of people visit the sanctuary to interact and discover Australia’s native wildlife. If lucky enough, you can book a swim with a platypus. If not, walk around and enjoy the wildlife presentations and see native animals in their natural habitats.

You can also visit the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, where the vets and nurses treat the sick, injured and orphaned native animals in need of care.

Where to stay in Healesville If you want to stay longer than a day, there is plenty of accommodation ranging from camping to B&Bs and apartments to caravan parks. Check out the Old Mechanic apartments in the centre of town, beautifully decorated with plenty of natural light. We also think the Healesville Hotel is a splendid choice.

Where is Healesville Located an hour northeast of Melbourne in the Yarra Valley. Known for being a premier Australian wine-producing area, there are also many quaint towns to visit, one being Healesville.

Contributed by Sharyn McCullum from Live Work and Play in Australia.

Glorious Port Fairy is located approximately 4 hours from Melbourne at the far end of the Great Ocean Road . For anyone travelling along the iconic road, adding Port Fairy to the list of places to stop is a must, and you will not be disappointed.

The quaint seaside port town oozes charm and history and boasts being one of Victoria’s most livable towns. There are a great number of cafes, pubs, bars and lovely boutique stores.

There are some fabulous things to do in Port Fairy – historical walks, a popular golf course, learn to surf, SUP or kayak, snorkelling, go to the popular Port Fairy Day Spa, walk around Griffiths Island, buy from the local markets or get yourself a ticket to the world-famous Port Fairy Folk Festival.

Of course, you cannot visit Port Fairy without going to the beautiful beaches. Although known for being a windy location, on a good day, Port Fairy’s East Beach is arguably one of the best along the coast and most family-friendly. Popular for holidaymakers in Summer, it makes for a great place to spend your day swimming and playing some beach cricket. South Beach (or Pea Soup to the locals) is a great spot for a protected swim and some snorkelling – Pea Soup is not patrolled.

Where to stay in Port Fairy Accommodation is plenty, with options ranging from the Big 4 Caravan Park to the Port Fairy YHA, hotels to luxury stays with river or sea frontage. For something with great location and value, stay at Seacombe House Motor Inn .

Suggested by Erin from Australian Mountains To Se e

Just two hours from Melbourne, Lorne is blessed with a magnificent beachfront that you can enjoy as you approach along the iconic Great Ocean Road. The main street boasts fantastic eateries, bars, cafes and boutique stores, beach frontage and a grassed area perfect for picnics and kids to run and play.

There is a walking track alongside the water, a fantastic adventure playground for the kids to enjoy, beach car parking in multiple locations, a beachside cafe and a trampoline park.

Be sure to pack your hiking gear, as this pretty beachside town is located on the edge of the Great Otway National Park, and there are fantastic hiking trails and a range of outdoor activities for those looking for some adventure.

Nearby Erskine Falls offers a great family-friendly walk and a popular one for those on a shorter stay.

Where to stay in Lorne Lorne offers many accommodation options, from camping , backpackers, eco-cabins to high-end luxury hotels and waterfront holiday apartments. Lorne caters for all budgets and styles, but you must pre-book because it is a highly sought after beach holiday location on the Surf Coast. For something comfortable, easily accessible, in and a great location, check out the Lorne Hotel .

To reach Lorne by public transport It’s a pretty straightforward trip; start by taking the V/Line train service to Geelong Railway Station and then join the V/Line bus service, which departs from just outside the station. It travels along the Great Ocean Road to Lorne; it takes about two and a half hours from Melbourne with good connections.

Suggested by Erin from Go Camping Plus Australia

Metung is a quant little waterside village on the Gippsland Lakes in Victoria. As locals we love this small Gippsland town and it’s popular with holidaymakers from Melbourne and beyond too. You will immediately notice the laid back pace of life; there are not a lot of “attractions”, you will not find mini-golf, movie theatres or swimming pools.

What you will find in Metung are yachts sailing on the calm waters of the lakes and people out eating and drinking in the small centre of town. There is still plenty to do in Metung to keep you busy on a quick getaway.

Metung is famous for its pub that sits on the water’s edge and provides the perfect spot to watch the passing boats on the Gippsland Lakes.

I highly recommend you stop by the local bakery and try one of their amazing pies or traditional Vietnamese Bahn Mi. We also usually pop into the Framer and the Cook, a local gourmet grocery store selling such delicacies as fresh oysters and local cheese.

The Metung Hot Spring draws even more visitors to this small waterside location. If you are staying a little longer consider day trips to Lakes Entrance, Buchan Caves and the nearby Nyerimilang Heritage Park.

Where to stay in Metung Perhaps the best place on the Gippsland lakes to relax and unwind, there are some great options on offer. If you want to stay in town, try The Mooring or McMillans of Metung Coastal Resort .

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Suggested by Mark from Travels in Gippsland

You could string all these towns together in a nice long road trip!

Other pretty small towns in Victoria to consider include:

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local .

2 thoughts on “The Most Charming Country Towns in Victoria”

While Bendigoo & Ballarat are great places to visit, they are not small towns

True and sorry if we offended anyone – For those of us from capital cities they feel small.

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13 Best Regional Towns to Visit in Victoria

Published on 29/05/2024 by Lachlan Taylor

Ready to check out the lovely towns of Victoria outside the busy life of Melbourne? From the best spot to watch whales in Warrnambool to the gold mining stories of Bendigo, these places have a beautiful mix of nature, culture, and history.

Whether you want to visit the coast, enjoy art and good food, or have fun outdoors, the towns in Victoria are full of things to do. So get your bags ready, and let’s start a trip to see the most interesting towns in Victoria!

Our top picks for towns to visit in Victoria include:

• For a coastal getaway with whale watching: Warrnambool
• For exploring Victoria’s gold rush past: Bendigo
• For arts, culture, and good food: Castlemaine
• For sunny outdoor activities: Mildura
• For a mix of history and outdoor fun: Horsham

Warrnambool

Warrnambool sits right by the Southern Ocean and is a city that combines the beauty of the sea with interesting history. It’s famous for the whales that visit Logan’s Beach from June to September every year. However, whales are just one part of what makes this coastal city special.

Source: Visit Victoria/ William Watt

Source: Visit Victoria

The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village takes visitors back to the 19th century, showing what life was like for those who navigated the seas and the dangerous Shipwreck Coast. Warrnambool also has a lively arts scene, with street art and alleyways, showing how well the city mixes its historical roots with a touch of modern style.

• Distance : 256km west of Melbourne
• Known For : Southern right whales, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, and beautiful beaches
• Best Season : Winter for whale watching (June to September)
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/BE6wJ3iWjHgR1Fro7

Bendigo, a city famous for its role in the gold rush, is now full of life with its art, culture, and great food. The city has beautiful old Victorian buildings that show off its rich history. The Bendigo Art Gallery, which is one of the oldest and biggest regional galleries in Australia, has a fantastic collection that draws art enthusiasts from all over the world.

Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria

For those interested in Bendigo’s gold mining history, the Central Deborah Gold Mine offers tours that take you underground to explore the gold mines. Bendigo does a great job of mixing its historical background with a modern way of living, making it a top place to visit in Victoria.

• Distance : Approximately 150km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Gold rush history, Victorian architecture, and the Bendigo Art Gallery
• Best Season : Autumn, when the city’s gardens and parks are at their most vibrant
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/QfFiSnoduWgtfVby6

Castlemaine

Located in the center of Victoria’s gold country, Castlemaine is a town where history meets the arts. This lively community is proud of its gold rush past, which you can see in its beautifully kept 19th-century buildings and at the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. But it’s not only for those who love history; the town is also a great place for artists and creators.

Source: Visit Victoria/Michelle Jarni

The Mill Castlemaine, a creative area in a transformed woollen mill, is filled with artisans, crafters, and food makers. Whether you’re visiting the Castlemaine Art Museum or tasting the local food at one of the town’s many cafes, Castlemaine brings together a lovely mix of history, culture, and great food.

• Distance : 120km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Gold rush heritage, The Mill Castlemaine, and vibrant arts scene
• Best Season : Spring, when the town’s gardens and natural surroundings come to life
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/uJKVjRontN1FBeCK7

Mildura, located along the Murray River, is known for its bright sunshine, beautiful vineyards, delicious food, and lively arts scene. This active regional city serves as an entrance to the outback and mixes cultural experiences with outdoor fun. There’s plenty to do here, from the Mildura Country Music Festival to relaxing cruises on the Murray River, making it a place with something for everyone.

People who love food will enjoy the area’s focus on fresh, local dining and top-notch wineries, while those interested in art can check out the many galleries and studios. With its warm weather and friendly vibe, Mildura is a great spot for anyone looking to relax or seek out new adventures.

• Distance : Approximately 550km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Murray River, gourmet food and wine, and vibrant arts scene
• Best Season : Autumn, for the wine harvest and mild weather
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/4ws1fYQCbwZK4jjq8

Echuca, located along the Murray River , is a town known for its significant riverboat history. It used to be Australia’s biggest inland port, and today, its appeal comes from its well-kept historical sites and the famous paddle steamers that still operate on the river.

By visiting the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, you can explore the town’s rich history, including the busy trade that once made this place a crucial area. For an up-close experience, you can take a ride on one of the old paddle steamers, like the PS Alexander Arbuthnot, and enjoy a slow cruise on the Murray River, admiring the peaceful river views.

Apart from its historical charm, Echuca is a lively town with a strong arts culture and many places to eat. The town’s cafes and restaurants, for example, the Three Black Sheep Cafe in the nearby Moama, provide a cozy setting ideal for chatting with the locals. If you’re interested in seeing more, the area around the town is filled with beautiful natural sights and outdoor activities, making Echuca a great place for both those who love history and those who enjoy nature.

• Distance : 225km north of Melbourne
• Known For : Historic paddlesteamers, Port of Echuca, and the Murray River
• Best Season : Spring and autumn, for mild weather and river activities
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/rnma7ssL79yKvzc78

Shepparton, in the center of Victoria’s Goulburn Valley, is a town where farming history and a growing arts scene come together. Famous for its plentiful orchards and dairy farms, Shepparton is heaven for anyone who loves food. The town’s lively local markets and farm gates have fresh fruits, vegetables, and gourmet foods, making it an excellent place for a food-themed road trip. Don’t miss the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), which has the biggest collection of ceramics in Australia and a wide range of modern art shows.

Source: Greater Shepparton City Council

If you’re into outdoor activities, Shepparton has a lot to offer. The town is set among beautiful scenery that’s ideal for bike riding, walking, and having picnics. Victoria Park Lake, close by, is a favorite for water sports and peaceful walks. Whether you’re checking out the town’s art and culture or enjoying the natural beauty of the Goulburn Valley, Shepparton offers a variety of fun and interesting experiences.

• Distance : 181km north of Melbourne
• Known For : Agriculture, Shepparton Art Museum, and fresh produce
• Best Season : Spring and summer, for the best produce and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/FpZGy9LPiGNGDpCT6

Ararat, located at the base of the Grampians, is a town with a lot of history and natural beauty. It started as a gold rush town and has an interesting history that you can learn about at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre. This place shares the stories of Chinese miners who came here in the 19th century. You can also see the town’s history in its old buildings and historic sites, like the J Ward Museum, which used to be a place for the mentally ill but is now a museum.

Source: Rob Blackburn Photography

For those who love nature, Ararat is close to the Grampians National Park, which has beautiful scenery and lots of outdoor activities. There’s also the One Tree Hill Lookout nearby, which offers great views of the area and is a perfect place for taking photos and having picnics. With its interesting past and lovely natural spots, Ararat has something to offer to everyone.

• Distance : 198km west of Melbourne
• Known For : Gold rush history, Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, and proximity to the Grampians
• Best Season : Spring and autumn, for mild weather and scenic views
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axb5GxBTWz1Xg42x7

Swan Hill sits along the Murray River and is a lively town that mixes history, nature, and modern fun. This sunny town is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, with the river offering lots of chances for water sports, fishing, and relaxing boat rides. A top place to visit is the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, an outdoor museum that takes you back to the 1800s. You can walk around the recreated town, see old buildings, and even ride the PS Pyap paddlesteamer for a real feel of riverboat travel.

Source: Visit Swan Hill

For those who love outdoor activities, Swan Hill has plenty to offer. The Murray River is ideal for kayaking, swimming, and fishing for the famous Murray cod. Nature lovers will enjoy Nyah-Vinifera Park, which is great for birdwatching and walking among the river red gums. Another unique spot is the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, which tells the story of the area’s importance in World War II as a place for repairing flying boats.

• Distance : Approximately 340km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Murray River, and Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum
• Best Season : Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/gF2pVP9QMXHaLDKu9

Lakes Entrance

Located at the point where the Gippsland Lakes meet the Southern Ocean, Lakes Entrance is a beautiful coastal town that perfectly combines natural scenery with outdoor fun. This lovely town is ideal for those who love water sports, as its extensive network of lakes offers plenty of chances for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The famous Ninety Mile Beach, with its endless golden sands, is a top spot for those who enjoy the beach, providing great opportunities for surfing, swimming, and soaking up the sun.

A visit to Lakes Entrance wouldn’t be complete without trying to see the area’s varied wildlife. Go on an eco-cruise to see dolphins, seals, and stingrays playing in the wild. If you want to get even closer to nature, take a trip along the East Gippsland Rail Trail. This scenic route for biking and walking goes through beautiful landscapes and gives you a peek at the local birds.

• Distance : Approximately 320km east of Melbourne
• Known For : Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland Lakes, and wildlife spotting
• Best Season : Summer for water activities and beach days
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/hbz9ZJkiXPbrw3Xn6

Located by the Mitchell River, Bairnsdale is a lovely country town that acts as the entrance to the Gippsland Lakes region. This relaxed spot is great for those looking to explore the area’s natural beauty, including clean lakes and beaches, green forests, and gentle hills. A key sight in the town is St Mary’s Catholic Church, a beautiful Romanesque building decorated with detailed murals by the Italian artist Francesco Floreani.

Source: Rob Blackburn

For those who love the outdoors, Bairnsdale has a lot to offer. The East Gippsland Rail Trail provides a beautiful route for cycling and walking through stunning scenery, while the nearby Mitchell River National Park offers rugged landscapes perfect for bushwalking and camping. If you’re interested in the local food scene, make sure to check out the area’s wineries, breweries, and farm gates to try fresh produce and enjoy gourmet dishes.

• Distance : Approximately 280km east of Melbourne
• Known For : St Mary’s Catholic Church, Mitchell River, and proximity to natural attractions
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/qYwR4nCWMRwMLkH18

Located in the center of Victoria’s High Country, Wangaratta is a lively regional city that perfectly mixes city life with the beauty of nature. This lovely place is well-known for its active arts community, with the Wangaratta Art Gallery displaying a wide range of Australian art, and the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre presenting various cultural events all year round.

Source: David Redfearn

Source: Peter Bond

Source: Ivor Jones

For those who love the outdoors, Wangaratta has a lot to offer, with the nearby Warby-Ovens National Park providing many hiking trails, places to have a picnic, and chances to see wildlife. If you’re looking for a more relaxed outing, the city has many beautiful parks and gardens, like the peaceful Merriwa Park, which has a lagoon, fernery, and paths for bush walking.

• Distance : Approximately 235km northeast of Melbourne
• Known For : Wangaratta Art Gallery, Warby-Ovens National Park, and parks and gardens
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/KK9RPvYNDqdHdpqz9

Horsham, located in the Wimmera region, serves as an entrance to some of Victoria’s most beautiful natural sights. The town is famous for its active arts community and lovely public gardens. At the Horsham Regional Art Gallery, visitors can see a wide range of Australian art, and the Botanic Gardens are a peaceful place to visit with their green surroundings and walking paths. Horsham’s central spot is great for those looking to visit the nearby Grampians National Park and the Little Desert National Park.

Source: John Jennings

Source: Ross Shaw

Source: Eileenmak

For those who love being outdoors, Horsham and its surroundings have a lot to offer. The Grampians feature tough mountain ranges and lots of wildlife, making them perfect for hiking and rock climbing. Meanwhile, the Little Desert National Park offers a different scene with its sand dunes and a wide variety of plants and animals. Whether you’re into art or outdoor adventures, Horsham provides an ideal mix of cultural and natural activities.

• Distance : 300km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Horsham Regional Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, and proximity to the Grampians
• Best Season : Spring and autumn, for comfortable weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Juh23YZu8kngxwM5A

Stawell, a former gold mining town, is now a vibrant rural service centre known for its rich history and proximity to the Grampians National Park. This charming town is famous for hosting the annual Stawell Gift, Australia’s most prestigious footrace, which has been held every Easter since 1878. The race takes place at Central Park, where you can also visit the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame to learn more about this iconic event. The town’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved buildings, such as the Old Shire Hall and the Pleasant Creek Courthouse Museum, which offer a glimpse into Stawell’s gold rush past.

Source: Denisbin

For outdoor enthusiasts, Stawell serves as an excellent base for exploring the Grampians. The nearby Black Range State Park features the Bunjil’s Shelter, a significant Aboriginal rock art site depicting the spirit figure Bunjil. The Stawell Ironbarks Forest, located in the Deep Lead Nature Conservation Reserve, is perfect for hiking and birdwatching, especially in spring when wildflowers are in full bloom. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, Stawell offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

• Distance : Approximately 235km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For : Stawell Gift, gold rush history, and proximity to the Grampians
• Google Map Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/hduqG6KTZDEojXLZ8

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit warrnambool for whale watching.

The best time to visit Warrnambool for whale watching is from June to September, when southern right whales migrate to the warmer waters off Logans Beach to calve.

How far is Bendigo from Melbourne and what is it known for?

Bendigo is approximately 150km northwest of Melbourne, about a 1.5-hour drive. It is known for its rich gold rush history, grand Victorian architecture, and vibrant arts scene.

What are the main attractions in Castlemaine?

Castlemaine is known for its eclectic arts scene, gold rush heritage, and culinary delights. Key attractions include The Mill Castlemaine, Castlemaine Art Museum, and the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens.

What outdoor activities can I do in Mildura?

In Mildura, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as cruising the Murray River on a paddle steamer, visiting the Perry Sandhills, and exploring the Mungo National Park. The region is also known for its gourmet food and wine.

How do I get to Stawell and what is it famous for?

Stawell is approximately 235km northwest of Melbourne, about a 3-hour drive. It is famous for the annual Stawell Gift, Australia’s most prestigious footrace, and its proximity to the Grampians National Park.

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Lachlan Taylor

Lachlan aka Lockie is a contributing writer at Humble Trail, known for his down-to-earth style and passion for the great outdoors. Born and raised in the small town of Deloriane, Tasmania, Lockie developed a deep love for nature and adventure from a young age.

His articles are a blend of his personal adventures and insightful explorations, often focused on sustainable travel, wilderness treks, and the serene beauty of untouched landscapes.

Always with his own reusable coffee cup in hand, Lockie loves a good caffeine fix as much as everyone else on the Humbletrail team.

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21 Hidden Places To Visit In Victoria, Australia

By audrey chalmers.

Discover The Best Hidden Places To Visit In Victoria.

The list of places to visit in Victoria can be a little overwhelming, with top attractions like the Great Ocean Road and the buzzing metropolis of Melbourne catching the eye of many first-time visitors.

But if you want to find a place to visit in Victoria that’s away from the tourist crowds there are plenty of great options.

Some of the best places to visit in Victoria are the small towns and villages that line the coast or are hidden further inland.

In our guide to the best places to visit in regional Victoria we look at some of the most interesting historical towns, the top spots for nature, as well as a few of the best hidden places to visit in Victoria that are well off of the tourist radar.

Table of Contents

Best Hidden Places To Visit In Victoria, Australia

1) portland.

One of the most historical towns to visit in Victoria, Portland started as a whaling station in 1829.

See the sights on the Portland cable tram network, visit galleries and museums, and look out over Nelson Bay at Yellow Rock lookout.

The town was established in 1834 when Edward Henty established the very first European settlement in Victoria.

Learn more about its rich past and uncover some of its varied history by visiting some of Portland’s 200 heritage buildings.

You will also discover how European settlement came with its downsides. Portland was the site of one of the first and largest massacres of Indigenous people in Victoria.

The Gunditjmara, the traditional owners of the southwest, were violently displaced when Europeans first arrived here.

But Portland isn’t just about the past, it’s also a great place for wildlife watching.

Point Danger is home to the only mainland gannet bird colony in Australia, while the 6-kilometre Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk has mass gatherings of over 2,000 Australian and New Zealand fur seals.

During the winter months, migrating whales can be seen from the shore as well as a designated viewing platform.

2) Port Fairy

Port Fairy is undoubtedly one of the best towns to visit in Victoria and was voted number 1 in the “Top Tourism Town Awards” in 2022.

You can find Port Fairy in the Shire of Moyne, just off of the Princes Highway in Victoria. Top spots to visit include the lighthouse, Merrijig Inn, Moyne Mill, the Lecture Hall, and the Court House.

The coastal town is home to one of the busiest fishing ports in Victoria, it’s a great place to grab fresh seafood, wander around heritage buildings, and relax at East Beach.

The town has lots of charm with a swathe of Victorian buildings from its European settlement in the 1800s as a whaling town.

Now of course it’s better known for its nature reserves and conservation efforts. Take a boat trip to Lady Julia Percy Island to see dolphins, a large colony of Australian Fur Seals, and the majestic Southern Right Whales.

If you happen to come on the right weekend in March, you may even come across the Port Fairy Folk Festival with live music, delicious local food and drinks, and lots of family-friendly things to do.

3) Warrnambool

Just east of Port Fairy is Warrnambool, another great spot for sightseeing in Victoria.

Located at the far western end of The Great Ocean Road, many visitors end up here on their Shipwreck Coast road trip. Visit Thunder Point, Warrnambool Botanical Gardens, or one of the town’s famous vibrant markets.

Every winter whales migrate here from the sub-antarctic to give birth at Logans Beach, known as a whale nursery. The best place to spot them is from the specially designed Logan’s Beach Whale Watching Platform.

Make sure to visit at least one Warrnambool market while you’re in town. From antiques to one-of-a-kind pieces, the second-hand markets in Warrnambool are a great place to find treasures for your home.

For fresh local produce, there’s also the flower market and the farmers market. While in the summer months head to Lake Pertobe to enjoy the long evenings, and catch an open-air film at the Twilight Market.

4) Aireys Inlet

Aireys Inlet is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Victoria. The scenery along this stretch of coastline is out of this world.

Surfers flock here to catch waves at Fairhaven Beach, while the secluded coves and rock pools make it equally enticing for nature lovers.

For walking and hiking there’s the Surf Coast Walk, the Cliff Top Walk, and the Aireys Inlet Lighthouse Precinct Walk.

Snorkelers will love exploring Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, a rich 17-hectare reserve that’s home to Cat sharks, Port Jackson sharks, skates, and rays.

Other top attractions in Aireys Inlet include the 12-hole mini golf course and Split Point Lighthouse – better known as the ‘Round the Twist’ lighthouse from the TV series.

Forrest, a charming village nestled in the heart of a lush rainforest, fern gullies, and sprawling bushland, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, athletes, and adventurers alike.

Adding to its allure are the Forrest Brewery and Forrest General Store and Cafe. The brewery, known for its handcrafted beers, offers a unique taste of the local culture amidst the natural beauty.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Forrest General Store and Cafe serves as a delightful spot for visitors to enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals and refreshments.

These two establishments not only enhance the village’s rustic charm but also provide perfect spots for relaxation after a day of exploring the stunning surroundings.

Tours to the nearby Lake Elizabeth offer the chance to spot the elusive platypus, as well as other native creatures like glow worms.

Take a tour with a company like Otway Eco Tours for a better chance of an encounter.

You can find Forrest around half an hour’s drive from Victoria’s south coast, near Otway Forest Park.

6) Halls Gap

The small town of Halls Gap is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Victoria. It sits right at the centre of the huge Grampian National Park making it the perfect base for exploring the area.

It’s a top destination for walking and hiking with trails like Pinnacles Lookout, the Venus Baths Loop, Boronia Peak and Chatauqua Peak, and the Grand Canyon walking track.

Some of the main reasons to visit are the stunning natural sights like Mackenzie Falls, Grampians National Park, and Lake Bellfield.

There’s also a rich indigenous history here. Visit the Brambuk Cultural Centre to learn about the aboriginal heritage in the Grampians area or see aboriginal rock paintings at Gulgurn Manja Shelter.

7) Daylesford

If you’re looking for places to visit in Victoria in winter, the spa town of Daylesford is a safe bet.

It’s popular year-round due to its hot springs, visitors come from far and wide to take a dip in the revitalising mineral-rich waters.

At around an hour and a half from Melbourne by car, it’s an easy overnight stay or even as a day trip if you’re short on time.

Head over to the foothills of the Great Dividing Range to discover one of the wealthiest gold-rush towns founded during the 1850’s.

You might notice that the Victorian-era town has interesting and unique architecture due to the Swiss-Italian migrants that first settled here.

The gastronomy is also first class with a wealth of farm-to-table restaurants, fresh local markets, and some of the best names on the Central Highlands food scene.

The neighbouring town of Hepburn Springs is a must-visit as well.

8) Macedon Ranges

One of the best places to visit in regional Victoria if you want to escape to the great outdoors is the Macedon Ranges.

This verdant region in Central Victoria lies between the cities of Bendigo and Melbourne.

Come to explore expansive native forests with over 30 kilometres of trails to wander throughout the Macedon Regional Park.

Other top visitor attractions include Hanging Rock, the village of Woodend, the historic town of Kyneton, and the imposing Mount Macedon at 1001 metres elevation.

Nine historic and creative villages in total make up the Macedon Ranges. The region is famous for cellar doors brimming with cool climate wines, internationally acclaimed gins, and a vibrant art and culture scene.

9) Castlemaine

The small city of Castlemaine is another one of the nice places to visit in Victoria that’s tucked away. It’s located in the Goldfields region of Victoria – around a 30-minute drive north of Hepburn.

Explore the plant life at one of Victoria’s earliest botanical gardens – the sprawling Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, or learn a little more about its history at the Victorian Goldfields Railway.

Art and culture also play a huge role in Castlemaine’s list of things to do .

You can uncover some of the best up-and-coming talent at the local artists market, visit the more famous collections at the art museum, or embrace the culture at the biennial Castlemaine State Festival.

10) Bendigo

As the third-largest inland city in Australia and the third-most populous city in Victoria, Bendigo comes high on the list of where to visit in Victoria.

Bendigo was named as a UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy in 2019. Local restaurants and eateries certainly live up to the labels with around 80 wineries and plenty of locally sourced food to tuck into.

This arty hub is a great place to visit to see all of the cultural treasures of Victoria with top spots like View Street and the Bendigo Art Gallery.

Chancery and Bath Lanes also have some wonderful street art to explore.

One of the most popular things to do in Bendigo is to take a tour of the Central Deborah Gold Mine.

In fact, there’s lots of gold-rush history and heritage architecture to explore in the city; jump on one of the famous trams for one of the easiest and most scenic ways to get around all of the sights.

The 60-acre Rosalind Park is another must-visit with its beautiful cascade waterfall and open-air fernery.

Take a picnic or take the kids to the fantastic playground to make the most of the open spaces.

11) Beechworth

Another of Victoria’s historic gold-mining towns, Beechworth boasts heritage architecture, boutique shopping opportunities, and nature right on its doorstep.

Autumn is one of the best times to visit as the oak and elm-lined streets turn orange, red, and yellow with the changing leaves.

Here you can visit over 30 National Trust-listed buildings, take a ghost tour at the Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum, or head out of town to visit the impressive Woolshed Falls.

You can also learn about beekeeping at Beechworth Honey – one of the most famous honey brands in Australia.

No trip to Beechworth is complete without a stop at Beechworth Bakery. The bakery is known throughout the state for its traditional baked goods that retain an old-world charm in keeping with the town’s atmosphere.

12) Werribee

As one of the state capital’s suburbs, Werribee is only 30 minutes from Melbourne’s city centre so it makes an easy day out if staying in Melbourne .

Escape the concrete jungle at the sprawling Werribee Park Precinct, there are plenty of world-class attractions in this area alone.

The magnificent Werribee Park Mansion is perhaps the most famous attraction, but there are also the 5000 roses of the Victoria State Rose Garden and the top-rated safari tour at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

The nearby Shadowfax Winery is a great place to reward yourself after a hard day of exploring with an award-winning glass of Shiraz.

For those looking for an active day out in Werribee , you can stroll or kayak down the Werribee River, wander Wyndham Harbour, or go hiking or mountain biking in nearby You Yangs Regional Park – one of the many hidden gems in Victoria.

13) Portarlington

Portarlington is a popular holiday spot located on the Bellarine Peninsula, 28 km from the city of Geelong. It’s surrounded by vineyards and olive groves and has fantastic views over Port Phillip Bay.

Highlights include Newcombe Street with the historic Grand Hotel, the nearby wineries, a beautiful beach , and the family-friendly Portarlington Miniature Railway.

Make sure to check out the drive along The Esplanade from Portarlington to St Leonards while you’re in town to take in unforgettable views of Melbourne’s skyline, Port Phillip Bay, and the You Yangs mountain range.

14) Queenscliff

Also located on the Bellarine Peninsula, just a 20-minute drive south of Portarlington, is the heritage town of Queenscliff.

Known as the ‘Grand Dame’ of The Bellarine, it has all the seaside town vibes you could hope for – including top-notch fish and chips!

Once the most heavily armed fort in the Southern Hemisphere, Queenscliff’s prime location means it’s the perfect beach holiday spot , surrounded by water on three sides.

One of the best ways to spend time here is by taking part in the water activities on Port Phillip Bay.

The abundance of reefs and shipwrecks makes it a great spot for diving and snorkelling, you can also swim with seals and dolphins and there are some great spots for fishing.

Another popular thing to do in Queenscliff is to explore the township of Sorrento on the other side of the bay. Just hop on the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento, the journey takes around 40 minutes.

15) Ocean Grove

A little further along the Bellarine Peninsula, Ocean Grove is a lively surf town , surrounded by wineries and idyllic beaches.

There’s ample room to spread out or play a game of cricket at the two-kilometre Ocean Grove Main Beach. It’s the perfect spot for surfing and bringing the family- plus it’s dog friendly too.

The sand stretches from Point Lonsdale to the Barwon River mouth, so it’s never too hard to find a good spot all to yourself.

For kids, there’s the nearby Adventure Park that’s full of fun rides and waterslides. Located in the nearby town of Wallington, it opens all summer between late November and late March.

There’s no shortage of golf clubs around Ocean Grove for sports lovers, but for families, there’s also the mini golf at Bellarine Adventure Golf.

For nature lovers, there are plenty of bird-watching opportunities like on the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve loop.

While for foodies highlights include Blackman’s Brewery and the wine tastings at Oakdene Vineyards.

16) Wilsons Promontory

Known locally as ‘The Prom’, Wilson’s Promontory is home to Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness area and lies at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia.

Wilsons Promontory National Park has around 50,000 hectares of protected landscapes, it’s the perfect place to escape into the wild and go on a real outdoor adventure.

Top spots to visit include Norman Beach, Mount Oberon, and the Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park.

Camp out under the stars or rent a cabin in the woods overnight at Tidal River Campground to really immerse yourself in nature.

Night hikes are also a popular option here taking in sights like the historic Wilsons Promontory Light Station and Sealers Cove.

Of course, there’s no shortage of wildlife in this natural paradise, with common sightings including seals, dolphins, kangaroos, emus, wombats, and echidnas.

17) Lakes Entrance

The seaside resort of Lakes Entrance has been a popular holiday spot for a number of years, so you can expect to find everything you need for a summer holiday in Victoria.

The fishing port town sits on the eastern edge of Ninety Mile Beach, where Australia’s largest inland waterways (the Gippsland Lakes) enter into the Southern Ocean.

The town is known as a place to go for amazing seafood.

For the best local catches make your way to Off the Wharf, or sample fresh seafood at one of the floating restaurants (Sodafish or The Floating Dragon Dockside Restaurant).

For something a little sweeter there’s also local institution Big Bears Donuts with 20 flavours of delicious donuts to choose from.

Another must-visit is the Lakes Entrance Surf Club Foreshore Market for local finds and produce – held on the first Sunday of the month.

Named after the Aboriginal word for ‘meeting of the waters’, this historic river port lies just across the border from Moama in New South Wales.

Echuca is famous for being Australia’s paddle steamer capital and it was once a key part of the trade route along the Murray River.

Today the rail and road network have taken over this vital industry, but Echucha hangs on to its glory days through its museums and historic buildings.

The area is home to the world’s largest fleet of operating riverboats and you can even enjoy a cruise on an authentic paddle steamer on a guided tour of the river.

Another way to embrace the water-based way of life here is by staying on one of the many houseboats that line the banks of the Murray River in Echuca.

19) Swan Hill

A little further inland down the Murray River, Swan Hill is a city in the northwest of Victoria, Australia.

Also a once important trading town, now its claim to fame is that it has “more sunny days per year than the Gold Coast” with an average temperature of 23°C.

It was named by Major Thomas Mitchell in 1836 after the noisy swans that kept the men up at night after making camp here.

Visitors can learn more about the first European settlers by heading to the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, an open‑air history museum that serves as Australia’s first reconstruction of a 19th‑century river port.

The city has its own share of outdoor activities too. Head down to Riverside Park and the Swan Hill River Walk, or take a bush walk through the red gums and box trees of Nyah Vinifera State Forest.

20) Mildura

Lying right on the border with New South Wales, Mildura is the most northerly regional city on this list.

Its access to the wild Australian outback and year-round sunshine make it one of the best hidden places to visit in Victoria.

Situated on the lands of the first peoples of Millewa-Mallee (Latji Latji and Ngintait traditional owners), there are plenty of great places to explore the outdoors around Mildura.

Visit the ancient Mungo National Park, kayak through Kings Billabong, and be amazed at the Pink Lakes of Murray Sunset National Park.

The top highlights of Mildura city include taking a historic paddle steamer tour on Murray River, exploring culinary delights on ‘Feast Street’, and perusing local produce at the Sunraysia Farmers Market.

21) Lake Tyrrell

One of the more unusual places to visit in Victoria is this 120,000-year-old salt lake.

Right in the heart of the Mallee region, Lake Tyrell’s shallow waters provide some amazing opportunities for photographers with a mirror-like film covering the earth’s surface.

But you will want to stay for longer than just a day trip here; by night Lake Tyrrell has some of the best dark skies in Victoria.

See the Southern Hemisphere’s constellations in their full glory; beautifully reflected by the lake’s still waters.

Lake Tyrell is a four-hour drive from Melbourne along the Calder Highway, visitors can stay 7 kilometres north in the town of Sea Lake.

Hidden Places To Visit Victoria Map

Victoria’s regional treasures offer a delightful escape for those seeking experiences beyond the usual tourist paths.

By exploring historical towns, engaging with nature at its finest, and uncovering hidden gems, visitors can immerse themselves in the authentic charm and diverse beauty of this remarkable region.

Whether it’s a quiet coastal village or a secluded inland retreat, each destination in Victoria holds its own unique story and allure.

This guide serves as a key to unlocking these lesser-known yet equally enchanting corners of Victoria, promising an enriching and memorable journey for every traveler.

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• 15 Of The Best Grampians Waterfalls

Audrey grew up in Victoria and travelled the world but she always called Victoria home. She loves nothing more than exploring her home state and sharing it here.

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Get inspired by these spectacular places to visit in Victoria, Australia, brought to you by a local Burn City inhabitant addicted to her home state.

Melbourne. Voted the most liveable city in the world  seven times over. I mean, there’s gotta be more to it than our smashed avo on toast which, mind you, is the the bomb diggity – or, our not-to-be-messed-with coffee culture. Right?

I don’t even know what the ranking is based on, but I can tell you one thing – despite the mind blowing brunch selections or soul soothing flat whites, Victoria is home to a vast number of captivating attractions that’ll make you see exactly why the capital of this state is the most liveable city in the world.

If you’re seeking the perfect weekend getaway, or you’re looking to add some unforgettable day trips to your Melbourne itinerary – this epic list serves to inspire you to pack your bags, and visit the most beautiful places in Victoria.

Looking for more Melbourne travel inspiration?

5-Day Melbourne Itinerary: Best Sights & Food

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Places to Visit in Victoria: Quick Travel Tips

➢  Rent a car, van or SUV . Let’s face it, Australia is big and vast – we don’t have much of a rail or bus network that connects everywhere. Renting a car is your best bet of getting around at your own pace and stumbling upon hidden gems.

Find the best price and car suited to your needs on Rentalcars .

➢   Pay attention to the speed limit. To say hurts getting a speeding fine in Australia is a huge understatement. It’s agonising. Torturous, even. It’ll throw you a couple hundred out of pocket and make your trip much less enjoyable.

➢   Book a day trip on Klook . Not ready to brave it on the great Australian roads with a car? No problemo. Take day trips out of Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley or Mornington Peninsula with Klook.

Take a look at these popular one day trips in Melbourne:

➢ Get the Entertainment Book . Australia is  expensive . Save a ton on activities, dining, shopping and accommodation in Melbourne and regional Victoria by getting this handy money-saver.

➢ Pack clothes suited for  all seasons. Because weather in Victoria is, basically, like Melbourne weather. This state is notorious for experiencing “4 seasons in one day” climate.

➢ Pick up a 4G SIM card . You’ll definitely need data to navigate the roads. WiFi can be sketchy in country towns Victoria, so be prepared and grab yourself a reliable SIM provider with plenty of data.

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21 Beautiful Places to Visit in Victoria

Strap in your seatbelts, guys. This list is going to overload your summer road trips from Melbourne plans for the next 2 years straight. Who would’ve thunk that there are this many beautiful hidden places in Victoria to unravel? 

1. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Deemed one of the most beautiful places in Victoria, it’s safe to say that you haven’t experienced the magnificence of Aussie beaches until you’ve been to Wilsons Promontory. Located in the Gippsland region, roughly 2.5 hours from Melbourne, the national park is a natural marvel that you need to feast your eyes on.

Prepare to be astounded by gorgeous trails and hikes, spotless white sandy beaches, unique Australian wildlife, and views to literally die for.

Camp under the stars, skip along the ‘Prom’s iconic Squeaky Beach, or conquer the summit at Mount Oberon – it’s a haven for hikers, family adventurers, and photographers alike. Get out of the city, slow down a few paces, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Things to do in Wilsons Prom

▪︎  Watch the sunset from Mount Oberon . One of the most scenic places in Victoria, the hiking trail to the summit is a booty-busting and leg-demolishing exercise that’s worth all the blood, sweat and tears

▪︎   Explore Squeaky Beach, Whisky Bay & Norman Beach . Sink your feet into bright white sand and turquoise water at these glorious beaches found within the national park.

▪︎   Go on a wilderness cruise . Jump onboard one of Wilsons Promontory Cruises amphibious boats and experience the breathtaking granite coastline from the serenity of the water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins, whales and seabirds.

Unique Stays in Wilsons Prom

Unless you’re a keen camper – no accommodation can be found within Wilsons Promontory, as the National Park aims to protect its pristine beaches, rainforests and wildlife.

▪︎ Stay inside an Eco Tent . Not quite glamping, not quite camping – this unique experience sits somewhere in between. Powered by solar and fitted with an ensuite bathroom, kitchen and deck BBQ, this is the perfect place to stay for semi-nature lovers.

▪︎ Spend a night inside a cottage at a lighthouse . Visitors can get a taste of the lighthouse keeper lifestyle by staying in one of the three gorgeous cottages right next to the lighthouse.

2. Inverloch

One of the best summer family holiday destinations in Victoria, the laid-back coastal town of Inverloch is the perfect retreat for beach lovers, families and water sport junkies. 

Tucked safely inside Andersons Inlet, the beach and waters are protected by Venus Bay peninsula, making it an ideal spot for little swimmers and beginner surfers. 

But, the town is not all about the beach life – wander inland and you’ll be greeted with serene boardwalks and nature trails that take you through the marshlands and stunning viewing platforms of Anderson Inlet.

Things to do in Inverloch

▪︎   Explore the rugged coastlines at Eagles Nest . One of the most beautiful hidden places in Victoria, this gem is located between Inverloch and Cape Patterson. Soak in the views from the lookout or climb down to the secluded beach for a swim or surf.

▪︎   Take kids on a Dinosaur Discovery tour . Embark on a pre-historic adventure to The Caves and unravel plant and dinosaur fossils on this geological landscape

▪︎   Taste wine, beer and local produce at Dirty Three Wines.  Spend a lazy afternoon enjoying local wines and delicious food inside this small industrial estate.

Unique Stays in Inverloch

▪︎   Relax in a Beach Shack with a private outdoor cinema . Retreat into a 1960s inspired beach shack with a designer flare. Chill out by the fireplace or enjoy lying on bean bags while watching a movie on the big screen outside.

▪︎   Spend the night inside a glamping tent . Set on scenic farmlands with gorgeous ocean views – enjoy luxury bell tents with private bespoke bathrooms while you switch off from the world.

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3. Lakes Entrance

A solid 3-hour road trip from Melbourne, Lakes Entrance is found in the eastern corner of Victoria. Known for its picturesque intertwining lakes, amazing camping grounds, and the famous Ninety Mile Beach – it’s a popular spot for families and nature seekers.

Grab your sleep bags and snooze under the starry night sky on a quiet stretch of beach, try your luck at fishing, explore the coastline, or visit all the quaint little towns dotted around the lakes. 

For more destinations in Gippsland (and a cheeky trip to NSW South Coast), take a look at this Melbourne to Sydney road trip itinerary .

Things to do in Lakes Entrance

▪︎   Drive inland to the Buchan Caves . Formed by a system of underground rivers cutting through limestone, inside, visitors can tread beneath hundreds of stalactites that line the ceiling (whilst trying not to freak out about one dropping on your noggin’).

▪︎   Rent a houseboat.  Be your own skipper and wake up to a different view each morning aboard your own floating island. 

▪︎   Hop on a ferry and explore Gippsland Lakes.  Uncover the beauty of the waterways from the comforts of a large ferry and cruise through stunning inland waterways consisting of lakes, marshes and lagoons.

Unique Stays in Lakes Entrance

▪︎   Stay inside a luxury off-grid home . Switch off from the world and experience sustainable living at a completely off-grid home set on 3 acres of rolling green hills.

▪︎   Sojourn at a wooden lakehouse . Ever dreamt of living in lakehouse complete with a private jetty and pool? Time to convert that dream into a reality.

Lakes Entrance accommodation booked out? Take a look at this family holiday park in Bairnsdale that’s only a 15-minute drive away.

4. Mallacoota

Surrounded by the glittering beauty and wilderness of Croanjingolong National Park, the pretty little town of Mallacoota is graced with cool ocean breezes in the hot summer months and the warmest winter temperatures in Victoria.

Enjoy nature strolls, boating, fishing, canoeing, 4WDing, surfing or golfing – there’s something enjoyable to be found in Mallacoota for every type of traveller.

Things to do in Mallacoota

▪︎  Explore the ancient forests of Croanjingolong National Park . Delve into the unique landscapes and enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing, 4WDing, surfing and golfing.

▪︎  Visit Gabo Island Lighthouse. Join in on a tour with the keeper and learn about the town’s history and look out for whales, dolphins, seals and even penguins.

▪︎   Captain your own motorboat.  Hire a small boat for the day and explore the scenic waterways and secluded coastlines.

Unique Stays in Mallacoota

▪︎  Stay inside a secluded Riverhouse inside the forest . Immerse yourself in pristine bushlands and forest life inside this magnificent home by the river.

SEE MORE: Highlights of Melbourne to Sydney Drive via Gippsland

5. Mount Dandenong

Country, bush, coast – Victoria’s got ’em all. But, if the mountains are callin’ – we’ve got a set of those, too. And, you better heed that call.

Take a trip out to the Dandenong Ranges, a mere one hour drive from the city – it’s a short trip from Melbourne that makes for a perfect ‘quickie’ retreat from the fast paced city life. Explore eclectic mountainside villages, wander through forest-scape, discover magical falls, and stunning viewpoints.

Things to do in Mount Dandenong

▪︎  Ride the Puffing Billy Steam Train . Travel through lush forest land, fern gullies and farmlands of the Dandenong Ranges onboard Victoria’s most famous train.

▪︎  Soak in panoramic views at Sky High . Drive up to the highest natural viewing point in Victoria – stop at the bistro for a feed or roam the hedge maze and secret gardens.

▪︎  Visit the charming towns of Olinda and Sassafrass . Stop for tea, coffee or lunch in one of these laid-back mountain towns.

▪︎  Take a stroll inside William Ricketts Sanctuary . A free outdoor exhibition that winds through nature paths dotted with wonderful sculptures.

Unique Stays in Mount Dandenong

▪︎  Spend the night inside a medieval-style cottage . Be awed by the Tudor-inspired lodging experience surrounded by rainforest views, walking tracks and picnic areas.

▪︎  Sleep inside a converted 1966 vintage caravan . Experience a stay inside a lovingly restored caravan complete with a hot tub, free WiFi and private patio with a BBQ.

▪︎  Frolic inside a wooden barnhouse . This cosy country-style home is surrounded by breathtaking views and boasts a double spa in the living room, gas log fire and private balcony with a BBQ.

Need to rent a car? Compare the best prices on Rentalcars .

6. Healesville

For a splendid one day trip in Melbourne that’s guaranteed to please kids and grown-ups alike, there’s no place quite like Healesville. A haven for food and wine lovers, the region is enveloped by awe-inspiring scenery, iconic Australian wildlife, artistic inspiration, and award-winning  wineries and restaurants.

It’s also, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in Victoria with kids where little ones are given the opportunity to encounter rescued wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, or run wild at one of the many outdoor picnic grounds with playgrounds.

Things to do in Healesville

▪︎  Encounter Aussie wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary . One of the top places of interest in Victoria, this is where you can meet rescued wombats, kangaroos, Tasmanian Devils, koalas and more native animals. 

▪︎  Have a picnic at Maroondah Reservoir Park . Pack a picnic and chill inside the huge park space or climb up to the dam wall for a gorgeous vista of Healesville from above.

▪︎  Pop into some of the region’s finest wineries . Soak in views of rolling green hills and indulge in some of the state’s most delectable cuisine and wines.

Unique Stays in Healesville

▪︎  Stay inside a glamping pod at a holiday park . Sleep inside an eco glamping pod with an ensuite bathroom and enjoy roaming the great outdoors.

▪︎  Romantic vacay at a tiny house on the edge of a hill . Be awed by this adorable country-style cottage nestled on rolling green hills.

▪︎  Experience living inside a luxury warehouse . Enjoy one of the most unique weekend trips from Melbourne by staying in a warehouse-style shed.

Experience the best attractions of the region. Join in on one of these top-rated tours and activities in the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges.

✰ Puffing Billy & Winery Lunch Hop on the famous steam train and choo choo your way through Dandenong Ranges National Park followed by lunch and wine tasting in the Yarra Valley.

✰ Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight Kick off the morning feeling like you’re on top of the world (literally) with an unforgettable flight over the Yarra Valley.

✰ Full Day Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch   Hop between Victoria’s top wineries and enjoy tastings with an expert guide, including lunch at a winery restaurant.

7. Warburton

Lovers of the outdoors, rejoice. Warburton is one of the most adorable country towns in Victoria you’ll come across and fall instantly in love with. 

Located in the upper reaches of the Yarra River, the area is surrounded by lush, green mountains and age-old trees that soar into the skies. Take the opportunity to see some of the state’s most picturesque countryside via bicycle, 4WDing or on foot. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Jan 8, 2019 at 12:27pm PST

Things to do in Warburton

▪︎  Experience snow in winter on top of Mount Donna Buang . Drive up the windy road to the summit and experience snow play toboggan runs in the cold months.

▪︎  Stroll through the majestic Redwood Forest . Pack a picnic and explore this magical forest lined with towering Californian Redwood trees.

▪︎  Visit the Warburton Rainforest Gallery . Float along enormous mountain ash and myrtle trees and be mesmerised by the beauty of this forest.

Unique Stays in Warburton

▪︎  Spend the night inside an American-style eco barn . Prepare to be blown away by this collection of hand built barn-style rooms tucked away in the Yarra State Forest.

▪︎  Sleep inside an off-grid mudbrick house . Built with reclaimed timbers and handmade mudbricks, this rustic cottage is the perfect way to switch off.

▪︎  Retreat into a Gaudi-inspire art house . Let your creative muse loose inside this artsy space and find inspiration for your next project.

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8. Marysville

Nestled in the foothills of the state’s great alpine region is the delightful little town of Marysville, truly, one of the tip top beautiful places to visit in Victoria. The drive up the Black Spur alone is a jaw-dropping experience that’ll make you tear up with all the beauty that this corner of the state has to offer.

Only a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, this alpine resort village is the ideal destination for all-year-round outdoor activities. Take the family on a snow adventure to Lake Mountain for toboggan runs in the colder months or trail to Keppel Lookout for breathtaking scenes of Steavenson Falls. 

Things to do in Marysville

▪︎  Hike up to Steavenson Falls . Embark on an easy climb up to the top of this magnificent waterfall for amazing views of the region.

▪︎  Trek along the Keppel Lookout Trail . Drive or hike up to this wonderful viewing spot where you can soak in invigorating panoramas of Marysville.

▪︎  Visit Lake Mountain Alpine Resort for snow-filled shenanigans . Ski through 37 kilometres of cross-country trails or let the kids loose on the fun toboggan runs.

Unique stays in Marysville

▪︎  Experience country hospitality at a secluded lodge . Wake up to kangaroos outside your window on a 68-hectare property surrounded by dense forests.

▪︎  Stay inside a German Alps-inspired mountain chalet . Enveloped by untouched rainforest and native Australian wildlife – this place is one of the best escapes from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Short on time? Take a day trip to Lake Mountain with a guide that includes skiing, tobogganing and chocolate sampling .

9. Cathedral Ranges State Park

One of the craziest and adrenalin-fuelled hikes that I ever agreed to embark on – hiking up Cathedral Ranges is not for the faint-hearted. 

However, I can assure you that the view at the summit is completely worth the near-death experiences encountered along the way. Enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Victoria overlooking vast farmlands, charming towns and mountain ranges.

Clamber through claustrophobia-inducing narrow cave passages and cliff-edge climbs that’ll make your heart rate drop. If adrenalin is what you seek, then adrenalin you shall find.

Things to do in Cathedral Ranges

▪︎  Drop by the township of Lake Eildon . Explore this quaint little town and its rich history or partake in water-based activities, such as houseboating and wakeboarding.

▪︎  Camp and hike to the top of Cathedral Ranges State Park . Climb to the summit for inspiring views and experience one of the hardest hikes in Victoria.

Unique Stays in Cathedral Ranges

▪︎  Experience a family stay at a 40 acre rural retreat . Spend a few nights inside a huge 4-bedroom house with views of the Cathedral Mountain range, splendid sunsets and a private pool.

Want more local Melbourne tips for planning your next getaway?

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10. Kinglake

Before we dive into the beautiful attractions of Kinglake, let’s set the record straight – there’s no lake. Alright, now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk about this incredible town that’s an absolute paradise for outdoor lovers.

Situated 50 minutes north of Melbourne CBD, the town is home to countless natural marvels, such as the Kinglake National Park, berry farms, lush walking trails and adventure playgrounds that the kids will go nuts over.

Things to do in Kinglake

▪︎  Enjoy a bushwalk in Kinglake National Park . Go camping, wind down the myriad of nature trails and find a quiet spot to admire the powerful Kinglake Waterfall.

▪︎  Pop by the magical playground at Bollygum Park. Moulded after the award-winning children’s book ‘Bollygum’, this outdoor playspace features a skate park, animal houses and a bird’s nest making it a hit amongst kids.

▪︎  Visit one of the biggest berry farms in Australia . Sink your teeth into the fresh and juicy raspberries at Kinglake Raspberries during harvest season.

Inch your way towards the Alpine National Park, one of the best places to visit in Victoria in the autumn and winter seasons, and enjoy the splendour and allure of the high country. 

Wander along Ovens River and soak in the stunning forest and call of the mountains that the town is engulfed in. Bright also boasts a first-rate foodie scene, where you’ll stumble upon boutique wineries, village cafes and mouthwatering restaurants serving up delicacies sourced from local ingredients.

Things to do in Bright

▪︎  Embark on an easy walk to The Canyon . Follow Ovens Valley River, bask in the natural scenery and cross a picturesque suspension bridge.

▪︎  Swing by Bright Splash Park in the summer . Cool off in the warmer months and chill out in this free public space that features bucket dumps and ring sprinklers where kids will have an absolute ball.

▪︎  Day trip to Mount Hotham or Falls Creek . If you’re after snow-capped adventures in the winter time, these two popular snow resorts are a must for ski enthusiasts.

Unique stays in Bright

▪︎  Stay inside a contemporary tin hut . Experience a memorable stay inside a modern tin house with designer touches.

▪︎  Cosy up in a modern love shack . What great romances are made of. Plan a romantic getaway and enjoy views of the mountains from the outdoor bath.

▪︎  Tiny House with an epic mountain view . Switch off from the world and seclude yourself in this gorgeous tiny home surrounded by killer mountain scenery.

TIP:  Plan a trip during the Bright Autumn Festival to experience breath-stealing autumn foliage and taste rare seasonal produce of the region.

12. Alpine National Park

Welcome to the state’s amazing High Country where you can spend days hiking along towering alpine ridgelines, trek past lush river valleys, rugged bushland and revel in unforgettable mountain scenery.

Some of the most amazing places to visit in Victoria are not always found along the coast. Albeit, Victoria is home to tear-jerkingly beautiful rugged coastlines that’ll make your heart skip a beat, but we also have mountain ranges that some might call ‘alps’ (as a German-born, I tend to disagree). With snow. Yes, plenty of snow.

Things to do in Alpine National Park

▪︎  Make a trip up to Mount Hotham or Falls Creek . Victoria’s most popular ski resorts are open all-year round for adventure seekers.

▪︎  Trek or drive up to highest mountain in Victoria . Nestled in the heart of the Alpine National Park, Bogong High Plains offer world-class mountain bike trails and hiking opportunities.

▪︎  Visit the hidden Lake Tali Karng . Camp out at the highest freshwater lake in the alpine region and bask in unforgettable mountain views.

Unique Stays in Alpine National Park

▪︎  Get cosy inside a Witcher-style stone cottage . Wake up to the sounds of the river and the forest in this detached mudbrick studio nestled at the foot of the mountain.

▪︎  Live it up inside a pod with breathtaking vistas . Enjoy stunning views from the bed or terrace of Kiewa Valley and Mount Bogong.

▪︎  Relax in a loft-style 3-bedroom chalet . Kick back in this Scandi-inspired mountain chalet boasting minimalist modern furnishings and to-die-for views.

New to Airbnb? Get $40 travel credit when you book your first stay!

13. Geelong & Bellarine Peninsula

Geelong. Better yet,  Gee-troit , as the locals like to call it to give Victoria’s second largest city a ghetto edge. Although it’s far flung from its colloquial name, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by all the delightful attractions and natural sights Geelong has to offer .

Roughly an hour’s drive from Melbourne, this easy-going coastal city is a burgeoning foodie scene, home to a myriad of contemporary dining experiences, craft breweries and hipster cafes. Enjoy wading in the cool waters of Eastern Beach in the summertime, explore the historic streetscapes or drive off to the Bellarine Peninsula for a surf, swim or scenic walk.

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Things to do in Geelong

▪︎  Take a leisurely stroll down the scenic waterfront . Food, cafes, ice cream parlours, vintage carousels and an awesome public swimming pool is what awaits you at the Geelong Waterfront.

▪︎  Eat your way through Pakington Street . Discover cool laneways, cafes tucked into warehouses, shipping containers and even old churches – it’s a mini Melbourne outside of Melbourne.

▪︎  Uncover the beauty of the Bellarine Peninsula . Scramble along the rocky shores of Barwon Heads, explore the seaside resort town, Queenscliff or even jump on a ferry to the Mornington Peninsula.

Unique Stays in Geelong

▪︎  Stay inside an incredible converted barnhouse . Constructed from traditional post and beam, this place even features a complete wooden chess corner on the top floor.

▪︎  Spend the night inside an enchanting Hobbit-style bungalow . This art deco-inspired private bungalow is surrounded by magical gardens and whimsical footpaths that’ll whisk you off into a fantasy world.

READ MORE:  Top 10 Geelong Attractions & Things To Do

14. Great Ocean Road

Hailed one of the bucket list places to visit near Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is one of nature’s most marvellous creations and a place you have to set out to visit at least once in your life.

The 243 kilometre coastal stretch runs along the rugged south western coast of Victoria, where the journey begins in a small beach town called Torquay, a paradise for surfers just over an hour’s drive outside from Melbourne.

Without a doubt, the most iconic stop on the Great Ocean Road is the legendary Twelve Apostles, only, there aren’t many left. So, be sure to make the effort to go and see these unique rocky pillars before they vanish from the surface of our Earth.

Take a look at our suggestions for hidden gems along the Great Ocean Road .

Great Ocean Road: Things to do

▪︎  Kick back in the popular surf towns of Torquay, Bells Beach and Lorne . Bask in Australia’s beach culture, explore the cliffsides or trek up waterfalls in these chilled out towns.

▪︎  See the best attractions on a guided day tour . Get blown away by the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge.

▪︎  Otway Fly Treetops Walk or Otway Fly Zipline Tour . Discover the incredible Otway National Park from the treetops.

You might like these fun activities on the Great Ocean Road:

Unique Stays on the Great Ocean Road

▪︎  Stay inside a 40 metre high suspended glass house . Staring into the Pacific Ocean, this is Australia’s most photographed luxury accommodation that will completely blow your mind.

▪︎  Sleep inside an award-winning designer eco lodge . A stone’s throw away from the Twelve Apostles, you’ll find a group of unique sanctuaries where you can relax and heed the call of nature.

▪︎  Bunk up inside a converted steam train carriage . Disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and those around you inside this renovated train carriage.

RELATED:  16 Must-See Spots on the Great Ocean Road

15. Warrnambool

Set out on a 3 hour drive to the remote western corner of the state – in our personal opinion, one of the best towns in Victoria to visit with kids, or simply retire in. 

Better yet, add Warrnambool to your Great Ocean Road itinerary and make it your first (or last) stop to enjoy whale watching, beach swims and stunning walks along the rocky coast.

It’s the ideal family vacation spot where you’ll find the historical Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, Bay of Islands and a pretty lake that is the social gathering point of the town.

Things to do in Warrnambool

▪︎  Catch the sunset at Warrnambool Breakwater . Climb around the rocky cliffs or trail down Pickering Point for impressive views of the islands.

▪︎  Take the kids to Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground . An epic outdoor playspace that the kids will never want to leave. Stroll around the lake or hire a small motorboat.

▪︎  Visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village . Travel back in time to a 19th century replica maritime village and see Australia’s most precious shipwreck relic.

Unique Stays in Warrnambool

▪︎  Call a shipping container your home for the night . Wake up to sounds of the river from within a converted shipping container with all the amenities you could possibly need.

▪︎  A church that’s been renovated into a home . For a unique experience in Warrnambool, stay inside a converted church complete with stained glass windows and high ceilings.

YOU MIGHT LIKE:  10 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Melbourne

16. Mornington Peninsula

Crystal blue waters and silky soft and shallow sand beaches that span into the horizon – the Mornington Peninsula is home to some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Melbourne. If this isn’t on your list of top places to see in Victoria, then you need to add it in right this moment.

Rent a car and make the gorgeous drive down yourself or book the Ultimate Mornington Peninsula Day Tour that covers prime attractions of the region, such as Fort Nepean National Park, Sorrento Beach, wine tasting and more.

Take a look at our complete guide to 12 must-dos in the Mornington Peninsula .

Things to do in Mornington Peninsula

▪︎  Book a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs . Dip in the toasty waters of thermal hot springs and experience ultimate rejuvenation in this peaceful sanctuary.

▪︎  Drive to the hidden back beaches . Explore the untouched sands of Bridgewater Bay, Gunnamatta Beach and Cape Shanck.

▪︎  Take a scenic gondola ride on the Arthurs Seat Eagle . Soar through the skies and marvel at scenic views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay.

Unique Stays in Mornington Peninsula

▪︎  Sleep in a Tiki-style ocean cottage . Get whisked away to the Pacific Islands and chill inside this home with all the tropical beach vibes.

▪︎  Relax inside a luxury Mongolian-style yurt . Experience what it’s like to be a true nomad by sleeping in a traditional yurt with a modern touch.

▪︎  Bungalow tower with million dollar views . Perched on the highest vantage point in Mount Martha, this architect-designed home will have you picking your jaws up from the floor.

Discover more popular Mornington Peninsula activities:

17. Werribee Gorge State Park

A perfect short day trip from Melbourne, the Werribee Gorge can be found in the desolate west of the city. Hugely popular amongst bushwalkers and rock climbers, it’s easily one of the best day trips from Melbourne.

The national park offers on trail and off trail adventures, steep descents for thrill seekers, river crossings, cable climbs, wildlife spotting and rock hopping for outdoor junkies.

18. Ballarat

If you’ve had enough of the coast and beach (as if), then it’s time for a getaway to the remote inland regions of Victoria. Situated just over an hour from Melbourne by road or rail; the city makes for an ideal day trip or weekend escape from the city.

Although gold played an important role in moulding the city into what it is today, there is much more to this place than all that glitters. Home to scores family-friendly activities and enveloped by stunning green landscapes, Ballarat is one of the best things to do in Victoria that caters for all interests and age groups.

Have a glance at our entire 10 things to do in Ballarat guide for more inspiration.

Things to do in Ballarat

▪︎  Dig for gold inside Sovereign Hill . A visit to Ballarat’s number one attraction is an absolute must. Descend into old gold mines, pan for gold and immerse yourself in life as it was in the 1850s.

▪︎  Encounter Australian animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park . Home to over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, wombats and koalas – this place is a sanctuary for animal lovers.

▪︎  Experience medieval life inside Kryal Castle . Perfect for anyone who’s fascinated by knights, wizards and castles, this is a must-visit attraction for all ages.

Unique Stays in Ballarat

▪︎  Stay inside a classical Victorian townhouse . Choose between a 2 or 6-bedroom beautifully restored townhouse in the heart of Ballarat.

▪︎ Spend the night inside Kryal Castle . The medieval-themed suites inside this adventure park will bring out the knight and princess in you.

▪︎  Sleep in a restored corner shop . Experience a unique stay inside a restored shop with a lofty bedroom and all modern amenities.

▪︎  Bunk up inside a 1850s-style miner’s loft . Ever wondered what kind of space miners would’ve slept in? Be awe-struck by this whimsical and rustic goldmine-inspired abode.

SEE MORE:  Best Budget to Luxury Accommodation in Ballarat

19. Daylesford

Overdue for a romantic escape with your other half? Daylesford calls. Possibly one of the best places to visit in Victoria for couples, this dreamy little town is famously known for its natural mineral springs and botanical garden that sits atop an extinct volcano.

It’s the ideal location to invigorate your body and mind, ignite creativity in the dense forests or venture to some of the historic neighbouring towns for country-style culinary experiences. 

Things to do in Daylesford

▪︎  Spend half a day bathing inside Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa . Indulge in a relaxing body treatment or massage to rejuvenate your mind and soul.

▪︎  Visit Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens . Wander through this enchanting green space that was built on top of an extinct volcano.

▪︎  Drive to Trentham Falls. Marvel at one of the most beautiful outdoor places to travel in Victoria and get awe-struck by this powerfall waterfall.

Unique Stays in Daylesford

▪︎  Cosy up inside a wombat hole-inspired home . What it looks like when Scandi-style meets wombat hole.

▪︎  Live it up inside a converted horse stable . Experience loft-style living inside an old horse stable that’s been brought back to life.

▪︎  Sleep inside an enormous converted barn . Enjoy life inside a revitalised 100-year old property that’s been creatively restored.

YOU MIGHT LIKE:  10 Fun Things to do in Docklands

20. Macedon Ranges

Venture an easy 1-hour trip north of Melbourne where you’ll find spectacular gardens, quaint towns and rolling green hills in the Macedon Ranges. 

Stock up on some of the finest local produce at the markets, indulge in artisan food, hit up world-class wineries or explore the expansive forests and trails at Mount Macedon and Hanging Rock.

Things to do in Macedon Ranges

▪︎  Climb up Hanging Rock Reserve . Make your way up this imposing rock edifice, meet some native animals along the way and bask in the scenery.

▪︎  Visit one of the many wineries . Macedon Ranges is known for its quality wineries, be sure to wine and dine in, at least, one.

▪︎  Soak in panoramic views from Mount Macedon . Roam the beautifully manicured gardens and admire the breathtaking scenery.

Unique Places to stay in Macedon Ranges

▪︎  Stay inside an old school house . Experience accommodation inside a converted 1876 school in the heart of the Macedon Ranges.

▪︎  Sleep inside an old railway station . Set in Lance Field, the converted train station houses a restaurant and includes free breakfast.

▪︎  Make the inside of a vintage colonial tram your home . Stay the night inside a cosy 1920s tram with an outdoor campfire, BBQ and Tiki bar.

Short on time? Join a 1-day horses, wine and beer tour of Macedon Ranges.

21. Bendigo

Searching for more glory, gold and riches? If Ballarat didn’t cut it in way of panning for gold, make a trip to Bendigo and continue the hunt. Lying 150 kilometres north of Melbourne, Bendigo is Victoria’s fourth largest city and the second highest producing goldfield in Australia during the height of the gold rush.

Boasting some of the country’s finest Victorian buildings, Bendigo is steeped in captivating history of a bygone age. Tour the Central Deborah Mine, sample delectable modern cuising inside historic buildings or uncover the city’s Chinese heritage; Bendigo makes for one of the best day trips from Melbourne for all types of travellers who enjoy a wee bit of history and culture.

Things to do in Bendigo

▪︎  Bendigo Vintage Talking Tram Tour . Hop onboard this refurbished vintage tram and see the best landmarks and attractions.

▪︎  Tour the Central Deborah Gold Mine . Learn about Bendigo’s golden past and experience what life was like for miners.

▪︎  Visit the Golden Dragon Museum . Learn about the Bendigo’s Chinese influence during the great gold rush era and how it shaped the city.

Unique Stays in Bendigo

▪︎  Stay inside a glamping tent at a winery . Spend a night or two at Balgownie Estate Winery Retreat, enjoy complimentary wine tasting and relax inside the luxurious tents.

▪︎  Experience the 70s inside a hippie van . Get groovy inside a 1973 vintage caravan with a private ensuite and private outdoor area.

▪︎  Live it up inside Victorian-style residences . Run wild inside this restored 4-bedroom residence in Bendigo’s art precinct.

22. Echuca Moama

Ahoy! Welcome to Australia’s paddler steamer capital, home to the world’s largest fleet of riverboats and floating fine-dining restaurants. 

Roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne, Echuca-Moama is steeped in exciting colonial heritage, but also makes for an action-packed holiday for outdoor lovers. Stroll around the old Port of Echuca and observe paddlewheelers and steam engines in action, experience the mighty Murray River on a river cruise, wakeboard, waterski or get a group together and get rowdy on the paintball fields.

Things to do in Echuca

▪︎  Tour Echuca on the back of a rickshaw . Get chauffeured around to the best points of interest and historical sites.

▪︎  Cruise the Murray River onboard PS Emmylou . Soak up the beautiful surrounds on a traditional wood-fired paddlesteamer.

▪︎  P aintball ’til you fall . Get a gang together and run wild inside Australia’s biggest paintball venue.

Unique Stays in Echuca

▪︎  1-night onboard PS Emmylou paddlesteamer . Experience an all-inclusive overnight stay – enjoy a multicourse dinner and bask in the spectacular scenery.

▪︎  Stay inside a vibrant gypsy wagon . Inspired by 19th century gypsy wagons, this modern reproduction comes with all the 21st century comforts.

TIP: Echuca is home to a myriad of exciting festivals. Check the Echuca events calendar   to align your visit.

23. Phillip Island

Picture this. Dazzling rugged coastlines, deep blue water ideal for surfing, fish and chips by the beach and cute little penguins bouncing up sandy hills. That’s the essence of Phillip Island, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Victoria that needs to be on your bucket list.

The island harbours splendid sights and activities for families, couples and adventure seekers. Learn about its history and heritage at Churchill Island Farm, hike along Cape Woolamai or watch the Penguin Parade; you’ll find it hard to get bored on Phillip Island.

Don’t forget to grab the Phillip Island 4 Parks Pass to save on entry for the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and more top attractions.

Things to do in Phillip Island

▪︎  Relax at Cape Woolamai Beach and hike to the Pinnacles . Traverse this stunning surf beach and trail your way along the coast to the Pinnacles lookout.

▪︎  Go on a wacky adventure inside A Maze’n Things . Waltz through rooms filled with optical illusions and crazy puzzles, an attraction all members of the family are sure to enjoy.

▪︎  Watch the Penguin Parade . Observe adorable penguins hobbling up to their nests at sunset.

Unique Places to stay in Phillip Island

▪︎  Get cosy inside a tiny beach house . Situate yourself minutes from the beach in a unique tiny home with all the beach vibes.

▪︎  Stay in a Bohemian beach bungalow . Featuring an outdoor camp kitchen, a firepit and eco-composting toilet, this is what Bohemian rhapsodies are made of.

Discover more of Phillip Island’s best attractions:

24. The Grampians

Known for picture perfect sandstone mountains, jaw-dropping views and unique Australian wildlife, the Grampians National Park is one of the top places to see in Victoria for couples or families seeking recluse in the mountains.

Covering over 170,000 hectares of space at the border of Victoria and South Australia, a visit to this corner of the state will have you reconnecting with nature, loved ones and the nomad inside of you. Expect to come across awe-inspiring vistas, mighty waterfalls, tranquil lakes and wild native forests. 

Things to do in the Grampians

▪︎  Hike up to The Pinnacle lookout . Deemed one of the top things to see in Victoria, getting to this bucket list lookout involves an arduous 2 kilometre hike that leads to an insanely rewarding view.

▪︎  Stare in wonder at Mackenzie Falls . Marvel at the water cascading down Victoria’s largest waterfall from the top or bottom lookout.

▪︎  Pop by the Halls Gap Zoo . Found at the foothills of the Grampians, Victoria’s largest regional zoo is home to over 160 native and exotic animals.

Unique Stays at the Grampians

▪︎  Enjoy a glamping retreat in the mountains . Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and enjoy 5-star amenities inside a canvas tent.

▪︎  Hide out in a secluded cabin in the woods . Escape city life in this modern couple’s retreat that’s surrounded by native bush and wildlife.

▪︎  Live it up inside luxury terracotta villas . Including breakfast, a spa bath and a romantic fireplace, this is the ultimate getaway with modern amenities.

Tight on time? Take a guided Grampians Day Tour to see the best lookouts and attractions.

25. Albury Wodonga

Ever wanted to be in two difference places at the same time? Albury Wodonga is ‘where everything comes together’. Two cities located at opposite ends of the state border that are filled with natural wonders, charming townships and outdoor adventures; a trip to this stunning region will bring out the explorer in you, but will also give you the time to relax and unwind.

Things to do in Albury Wodonga

▪︎  Picnic at Lake Hume . Drive or stroll around the picturesque lake and admire the impressive infrastructure.

▪︎  Paddle down the Murray River . Hire a canoe or kayak and explore the surrounds at your own pace.

▪︎  Spend a day at the Albury Botanic Gardens . Stroll through the 130-year old gardens that features a children’s playspace and historical buildings.

Unique Stays in Albury Wodonga

▪︎  Stay inside a tranquil zen house . Surround yourself with peaceful and ambient energy that comes complete with a garden made for ultimate relaxation.

▪︎  Experience ultimate luxury in a spa hotel . Live the high life inside this upmarket space that features contemporary decor, breakfast and a day spa.

More Melbourne & Victoria Guides

Take a look at this list of 10 best things to do in Melbourne to inspire your next city trip. Ditch the Great Ocean Road for a trip to Mornington Peninsula’s best attractions . Taking the kids for a day trip out of Melbourne? Don’t look past Ballarat . Slickin’ in the city? Check out these fun things to do in Docklands .

Best Places to Visit in Victoria: Wrap Up

There’s obviously more to the reason why Melbourne was voted the most liveable city in the world on numerous counts, but I’d say our amazing countryside mixed in with our spectacular coastline accounts for a good chunk of the points here. Oh, and our food scene. Let’s not forget the mind blowing food our chefs put on the brunch table here.

I hope this list has inspired you to jump in a car to explore the remote regions of my beautiful home state – there really is so much to see and do for travellers of all kinds. A great place to start planning your next great Victorian getaway is on the official Visit Victoria site, where you can align your travels with special events, or simply find inspiration on where to go.

Want to know more about these beautiful places in Victoria?

Feel free to ask in the comments below.

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38 comments.

Gorgeous photos! Makes me want to pack a bag right now. 🙂

Thanks, Lacee! I hope you get around to visiting one day – I’m sure you’ll love it!

Wow! These photos are amazing. I have always wanted to go to Australia!

Thank you, Vicki! I hope you get the chance to visit soon! It truly is a beautiful place.

Wow. These places are amazing. You’re good with taking landscapes I see. Thank you for sharing these wonderful places.

Great post, I am going to try and visit all these when I get to Vic again! I have only been to Melbourne and I fell in love with that city, so I would love to see more of Victoria.

I know, it’s hard because there’s so much to see in Melbourne alone. But along the coast and in the country is really where all the beauty is at! Come again soon!

Thanks for the post, the pictures are absolutely beautiful and really makes me want to pack my bags and head to Australia right now 🙂

I hope you get the chance to visit soon!

I would love to visit! Thanks for sharing!

Wow fantastic read, awesome pics, makes me want to pack my bag, jump on a plane and visit right away.

Thank you, Stefany! Hopefully you get around to visiting Australia soon!

Your Clicks are amazing! Austraila is on my bucket list, love the place as well as well as their food 😀 Thank you for sharing this amazing post 🙂

I have always wanted to travel here. How amazingly beautiful your photos are. Stunning!

Thanks for your kind words. I hope you get to visit soon!

I have got to visit Australia! These pictures and places are beautiful!

Definitely – you’ll love it!

Ah I absolutely love Australia! So many gorgeous places to explore. Can’t wait to visit again some day 😀

I hope you get to visit again soon!

Australia is one of those places I feel like I’d need an extended trip to. I have always been fascinated and now you have given me even more places to visit!

I know, we’re just so far away from the rest of the world and you definitely need to take an extended trip if you want to travel around the country and make the most of it. My list of places to visit is ever-growing as well!

All of these places look absolutely magical! I don’t even know which one I would begin with! Maybe the Grampians? I can’t say no to an incredible mountain view.

Me neither. I love a combo of mountain and ocean – so I would highly recommend Wilsons Prom!

I have not been to Australia but NOW I want to go and visit all of these amazing, beautiful places.

I hope you get the chance to visit one day – you won’t regret it!

I’ve never had the opportunity to visit Australia, but now I definitely want to! 🙂 These beaches are SO GORGEOUS! Hopefully I can go this Summer! 🙂

xo, Chloe // http://funinthecloset.com/fishnets-friend-foe/

This is only the state of Victoria – there’s so much more to see! I hope you get the chance to come down and visit one day, you won’t be disappointed!

All of these are so amazing. I had a good friend just move to Australia. I need to send this to her!

Oh yeah, definitely! If she visits Victoria, she needs to visit these places 🙂

Beautiful photos and a great post. Such travel inspiration.

I so enjoyed this post, it makes me want to visit. What’s the temperature like in spring on the beaches?

Thank you – I’m happy to hear you enjoyed reading my post. The weather in spring is pretty inconsistent in Victoria, probably not the best for swimming in the beach. Best time to hit up the beaches would be January-February and early March 🙂

Too bad I never got a chance to visit Victoria when I lived in Sydney. Love the sneak peek. Hoping to catch up on these place the next time I visit

Wonderful post! I love, love all the pictures…beautiful.

Wow! It looks amazing, and the photos do speak for themselves. However, my favorite photos of Mornington Peninsula. The whole place looks worth a visit. Thanks for sharing them.

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12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Great Ocean Road Tourism / Belinda Van Zanen

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• Top things to do
• Getting to Victoria

With roaring sporting events, famed coastal drives and sensational food and wine, Victoria boasts both the heart-pumping and the heavenly.

The foodie, cultural and sports-loving capital city of  Melbourne  has enough to keep visitors entertained for days. But better yet, Victoria’s most enticing experiences are all within a short drive from the city. From mountain vistas to cool-climate wines and little penguins, whichever direction you turn, Victoria will serve up something unforgettable.  

Despite being one of Australia's smaller state, Victoria packs a punch with diverse attractions, stunning natural wonders, prolific wildlife and a food and wine scene that celebrates the state's producers. From the ski fields to the beaches, a holiday to Victoria has something for everyone.

• Climb the peaks of the Grampians or hit the slopes in the Australian Alps
• Drive the Great Ocean Road and see the iconic 12 Apostles
• Indulge in Victoria's wine scene in the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula

Victoria's capital, Melbourne, is one of the most easily accessed Australian cities; you can fly direct to Melbourne from several international hubs, as well as from every Australian capital city.

From Melbourne Airport it’s an easy 20-minute taxi or bus ride to the city centre. From there, you can explore Victoria’s regions by car, train or bus. While flying is convenient, the ultimate way to cruise into the state is on a road trip. Take the five-day  Great Ocean Road journey  from Adelaide or drive along  New South Wales'  south coast on an epic  journey from Sydney to Melbourne. 

Popular destinations in Victoria

The Great Ocean Road

The Mornington Peninsula

Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges

The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

High Country & King Valley

Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula

Trips and itineraries.

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Grampians National Park family itinerary

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

12 days of fine dining, wilderness and luxury

Sydney to Melbourne inland drive

Australia’s south in 10 days

Things to do in victoria.

Top rooftop bars in Melbourne

Must-stop places on the Great Ocean Road

The best walks and hikes at Wilsons Promontory

Looking for more inspiration? Go to visitvictoria.com

Travellers' stories, explore australia's states and territories.

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Four striking Victorian spots are among the top hidden gems in Australia

The country's best-kept secrets have been ranked and rated – and a few of our local faves made the list

Victoria is state of beauty and intrigue – from waterfalls and caves to gardens and sand dunes , there are plenty of spectacular natural wonders you can discover by wandering off the beaten track. And we're not the only state home to a bounty of treasures; Australia as a whole is packed full of magical places to explore if you know exactly where to look. So if you're gathering inspo for your next adventure, this might help: a new study has revealed the most searched hidden gem destinations and attractions in Australia, and four of the best are right here in Victoria.

Using trusty travel sources like   Time Out Australia   (hell yeah!), the luggage storage legends at   Bounce   put together a list of 70 hidden treasures across the country. They then looked at search trends to rank each spot by popularity and also tapped into Tripadvisor data to uncover the highest-rated secret attractions.

Queensland’s largest inland city,   Toowoomba , took the title of Australia’s most searched hidden gem, racking up 937,500 searches across the past year.  Coming in at seventh was our very own  Wilsons Promontory National Park , also know as mainland Australia's southernmost point. This wild and rugged corner of our state is a popular hiking and camping destination, and boasts the title of the best beach in the country – yep, you read that right. In ninth are the famed (and rare!)  Pink Lakes , including the local Westgate Park pond that turns a vibrant shade of fuchsia when conditions are right and Lake Tyrell aka Victoria's largest inland salt lake.

Here are the 10 most searched hidden gems in Australia:

• Toowoomba , QLD
• Lord Howe Island, NSW
• Kangaroo Island , SA
• Moreton Island , QLD
• Yamba , NSW
• Broome , WA
• Wilsons Promontory National Park , VIC
• Glasshouse Mountains , QLD
• Pink Lakes , VIC
• Ningaloo Reef , WA

When it comes to Australia's top hidden gem attractions, Victoria’s Panorama Garden Estate claimed the highest Tripadvisor rating, with an impressive 95.89 per cent of reviews marked as “excellent”. Chasing at its tail is the Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs, with 95.27 per cent of “excellent” reviews. Also making an appearance at seventh on the list is the  Great Aussie Beer Shed and Heritage Farm Museum in Echuca . 

Aussies clearly love their wineries , with Ernest Hill Wines in NSW’s Hunter Region, Kies Family Wines in the   Barossa Valley , and Ivanhoe Wines in   Newcastle   also making the top ten. Down Under, we also love a   good national park , with Hill Inlet in the   Whitsunday Islands National Park , Cape Le Grand National Park in Esperance, and Maria Island National Park in Tasmania also receiving rave reviews. You can check out the full rankings below.

Here are the 10 best hidden gem attractions in Australia:

• Panorama Garden Estate, VIC
• The Kangaroo Sanctuary, NT
• Ernest Hill Wines, NSW
• Hill Inlet, QLD
• Kies Family Wines, SA
• Ivanhoe Wines, NSW
• The Great Aussie Beer Shed and Heritage Farm Museum, VIC
• Opal Museum, QLD
• Cape Le Grand National Park, WA
• Maria Island National Park, TAS

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free  Time Out Melbourne newsletter  for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.

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It's official: a melbourne bakery is home to australia's best pie, two regional victorian spots have been crowned among the best in the top tourism town awards, melbourne's cbd just gained 12 shiny new tram stops to help improve public transport accessibility.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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10 Best Places To Visit In Victoria

Although it might be Australia’s second smallest state, Victoria is still overflowing with places to explore and a whole range of diverse landscapes sitting side by side.

With an epic coastline and some of the best drives in the world along the southern coast, to mountain ranges, rainforests, an abundance of native wildlife and Australia’s longest river running along the northern border, each region of Victoria offers something unique and different to anywhere else in Australia.

Victoria is also our home state, so we have spent many years exploring all it’s nooks and crannies and refining a list of our favourite places in the state.

Plan your next visit with our list of the best places to visit in Victoria.

In this post:

When to visit Victoria

If you’re thinking of that year round summer Australia has a reputation for, you’re not going to find it in Victoria. There is  definitely a winter season in Victoria, especially in the bottom half of the state. In fact, Victoria is infamous for offering four seasons in one day, where you can often experience sunshine, wind and rain all on the same day.

In the summer time Victoria offers a dry heat, with temperatures that range between about 25°C and 35°C or above. There are often heatwaves during the summer time, where temperatures can soar to above 40°C for a few days in a row, but cool patches are also just as common.

In winter time the weather can stay under or around 10°C for weeks at a time, with grey skies and super short days. There are some great snowfields around the state, where ski conditions are often pretty good throughout the whole ski season. Always take a jacket with you, you never know what you’re going to get.

The best time to visit Victoria in our opinion would definitely be during the summer months. When the days are longer, nights are warm and ocean swims aren’t going to freeze you to your bones, everything comes to life in Victoria in the summer time.

1. The Great Ocean Road

A favourite of anyone who visits Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is world famous for it’s scenic coastal drives, epic surf beaches and number of natural attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in Australia.

Stretching from the coastal town of Torquay all the way along the coast to Warrnambool, there’s precisely 243 kilometres of coastline to explore, winding you inland through incredible rainforests and then back out to the ocean to find Victoria’s best beaches.

Great Ocean Road Highlights

• The 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge near Port Campbell
• Kennett River Koala Walk 
• Teddy’s Lookout in Lorne
• Memorial Arch Lookout just out of Torquay
• Great Otway National Park
• Waterfall hopping around Lorne
• Rip Curl Pro Surf Competition at Bells Beach
• Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet

Check out the best places to stay along the Great Ocean Road

2. Murray River

Creating the boarder between Victoria and New South Wales, the Murray River runs almost the whole way along the top of Victoria and boasts more sunny days than anywhere else in Australia. No matter what time of the year you visit, you’re likely to get some sunshine at least for a bit of your visit!

This is a great place to take your first camping trip , where you can get out and about in nature, enjoy life at a slower pace and see a completely different side of Australia. There are lots of great places along the Murray River to free camp, so it can also be a super cheap option for a quick getaway.

Murray River Highlights

• The Port of Echuca & Murray River Paddlesteamers
• Koala spotting at Ulupna Island
• Margaritas at Cactus Country in Strathmerton
• Year round sunshine in Mildura

Book now: Experiences along the Murray River

3. Melbourne

The capital city of Victoria, Melbourne is known for being a pretty unique and diverse city in Australia. Full of hidden lane ways, delicious artesian coffee, great entertainment and the home of sport in Australia, there’s so much here to keep you busy.

There are graffiti filled alley ways, unique boutiques on every corner, underground restaurants and an oversupply of rooftop cocktail gardens. Melbourne has perfected the art of Instagrammable locations, hidden secrets and how good it feels to be in the know when you find one of the cities hidden gems.

Melbourne Highlights

• Watch an AFL game at the MCG
• Check out some of the live comedy shows
• Shop the boutiques in as many hidden lane ways as you can find
• Take a walk or a cruise along the Yarra River that winds through the city
• Check out the views from the Eureka Skydeck
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the city
• Visit some of the best markets for unique finds

If you have some extra time make sure you get out of the CBD and explore some of the surrounding suburbs to check out more of a locals view of Melbourne. Just a short train or tram ride from the city South Yarra, Prahran, St Kilda, Richmond and Collingwood all offer their own super unique vibe, with heaps of trendy hot spots to check out.

Book your stay in Melbourne HERE

4. The Grampians

For some of Victoria’s most dramatic landscapes, beautiful hiking trails and incredible lookouts, the Grampians is not to be missed. This stunning mountain range rises out of nowhere in the farmland of Victoria and offers so much to explore.

Base yourself in the close by town of Halls Gap and immerse yourself in the abundance of wildlife, Aboriginal history, tumbling waterfalls and long winding hiking trails that the Grampians has to offer.

Grampians Highlights

• Boroka Lookout
• The Pinnacle Walk & Lookout
• Reeds Lookout & The Balconies
• Mount William Summit
• Mackenzie Falls

Explore more of the best hikes, lookouts and waterfalls around the Grampians.

5.  Mornington Peninsula

A coastline full of beautiful bays, the Mornington Peninsula differs from the Great Ocean Road because it still lies inside Port Phillip Bay. Because of this there are no epic surf breaks or tumbling waves, but there are a row of because offering pristine calm water, that is truly a beautiful shade of blue.

Mornington Peninsula is also home to all those cute little colourful bathing boxes that you can find along most of the beaches in the area. Make sure to visit beaches on both the bay and ocean side of the Mornington Peninsula for the best look at the area, with the ocean beaches offering plenty of rock pools to explore.

There’s also a whole bunch of inland experiences to check out in the Mornington Peninsula, with everything from hot springs to wineries in the region that will keep you coming back for more.

Mornington Peninsula Highlights

• Sorrento Back Beach
• Cliff jumping at Mount Martha
• Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs
• Safety Beach Bay Trail
• Diamond Bay & Number 16 Beach
• Check out the tip of the bay at Point Nepean

Book now: Where to stay along the Mornington Peninsula  

6. Yarra Valley

Known around the world for it’s magnificent wineries, the Yarra Valley is sure to keep you entertained, and a little bit buzzed for your whole visit. There are so many beautiful places to explore in this little area, it’s really incredible.

Each winery is more impressive than the last with beautiful decor, delicious wines to taste and sweeping views over the vineyards. The region also offers a range of delicious local produce, with everything on offer here from cheese to chocolate.

Yarra Valley Highlights

• Winery hopping around the valley – some of our favourites include Zonzo, Stones of the Yarra Valley and Domain Chandon
• Alowyn Gardens
• Healesville Sanctuary
• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice-creamery
• Yarra Valley Dairy

Check out the best places to stay in the Yarra Valley

7. Wilsons Promontory

Located at the southernmost tip of Australia’s mainland, Wilsons Promontory offers visitors a little bit of everything you might be looking for in Victoria. Surrounded by stunning coastlines, full of white sand beaches, Wilsons Prom is also home to thick bushland, huge granite mountains and lots of native Aussie wildlife.

Wilsons Promontory is a great place to disconnect from the world for a few days – take a multi day hike to the untouched side of the island, where you can sleep in little camp spots along the way before reaching the most beautiful and deserted beaches in the park.

Wilsons Promontory Highlights

• Squeaky Beach & Squeaky Beach Track
• Picnic Bay & Whiskey Bay
• Prom Wildlife Walk
• The Complete Southern Prom Hike
• Little Waterloo Bay
• Overnight Camp in Wilsons Prom

8. Mount Hotham

There are a few different snowfields in Victoria, but Mount Hotham is arguably the biggest and the best. Offering stunning views over the snow capped mountains, Hotham sits high above the rest of the mountain ranges in the area, giving you incredible views as you ski down the mountains.

Top off your experience with a sleep over in the snow at Alpine Nature Experience , where you can sleep in the snow in your very own super cute teepee after a delicious cheese fondue and wine evening. It’s the perfect winter escape.

Other snowfields to visit in Victoria

• Mount Buller
• Falls Creek
• Mount Buffalo
• Mount Baw Baw
• Lake Mountain

Book now: Best accommodation deals in Mount Hotham

9. The High Country

In the north-east of Victoria you will find the High Country, a great little pocket of Victoria that’s full of national parks, Victoria’s highest mountains, lakes, snow resorts, vineyards and wineries and a rich history including gold discovery, cattlemen and bushrangers.

There are heaps of different places to explore in the High Country, from the snowfields in the winter time, to country towns surrounded by waterfalls, hidden rock pools, crystal clear rivers and incredible scenic drives.

If you have the chance, make sure you visit the High Country in both summer and winter. The region is extremely different in each season, although both are just as magical as each other, offering vastly different experiences.

Some of the top towns to visit in the High Country include Bright, Eildon, Myrtleford and Harrietville.

10. Phillip Island

Offering everything from stunning white sand surf beaches to adrenaline sports and an abundance of wildlife, including the world famous little penguins, Phillip Island has a lot more than meets the eye.

This little Victorian island is full of secret hot spots that get you out and about in nature. There are incredible nature hikes, deserted beaches, animal sanctuaries and even a whole bunch of different festivals during the holidays.

Phillip Island Highlights

• Watch the Penguin Parade
• Phillip Island Chocolate Factory
• Visit the Koala Conservation Centre
• Explore Cape Woolamai
• Check out the Nobbies Ocean Discovery

Check out the best places to stay on Phillip Island

No matter where you decide to visit, you’re sure to have a great time exploring a little more of Victoria. It might be Australia’s second smallest state, but it’s still bigger than all of the United Kingdom, so there’s still plenty to see.

If you have a favourite place in Victoria that we haven’t mentioned in this post we’d love to check it out. Make sure you drop us a comment or send us a DM or email with the details!

Explore more of our adventures around Victoria

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Happy travels, if you enjoyed this post, we'd love you to share it for us follow us on instagram @exploreshaw to see our latest adventures around australia. check out our travel favourites: click here to subscribe to our newsletter, for blog posts and updates emailed straight to your inbox use this link for $25 aud off your next hotel stay with booking.com, or this link for $55 aud off your first booking with airbnb..

Emma is a travel writer, photographer and blogger, chasing the sun around Australia. Travelling in her recently renovated vintage Viscount caravan, along with her husband Thom and daughter Macey, she's sharing the very best experiences from around her beloved sunburnt country.

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Taking a road trip? Don't miss out on these five rest stops across Victoria and NSW

ABC Goulburn Murray

Topic: Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)

These Victorian landmarks are familiar to many, but not everyone knows the story behind them.  ( ABC Goulburn Murray: Alice Walker )

When planning a road trip, the journey can be just as important as the destination.

It's often the unexpected that stays with you, so here are some of the quirky and impressive landmarks to look out for around Victoria and its borders — just in time for the school holidays.

1. An inland submarine, Holbrook

Majestic and incongruous, just how a Cold War submarine found its way to a small town in southern New South Wales is the story of a series of unlikely events.

The settlement on Wiradjuri land was initially named Germanton in reference to the origins of an early hotel owner.

As with dozens of other Australian place names with German associations, it was considered prudent to find a new title during the First World War.

Visiting the HMAS Otway is popular with families who want to break up their road trip. ( ABC Goulburn Murray: Alice Walker )

The committee settled on Holbrook after an English submariner whose military feats were lauded in the contemporary press.

Fast forward to the 1990s, and a push to increase tourism led to a bid on the decommissioned Oberon-class submarine, the HMAS Otway.

Despite the sizeable donation of 50,000 pounds ($97,348) from Commander Holbrook's widow, the town fundraising group could only afford the casing: the part visible above water.

A long way from its original role spying on Russian warships, the HMAS Otway casing now floats on a sea of concrete and lawn and is a popular stopover with families.

Holbrook — the unlikely "Submarine Town" — now hosts annual submariner gatherings.

Morrie Jeppesen says the annual submariner gatherings are great fun. ( ABC Goulburn Murray: Alice Walker )

They're much-loved occasions for Holbrook Submarine Museum curator and ex-navy man Morrie Jeppesen.

"We all sit round and tell tall tales and true to each other and just have a great time," he said.

Alice Walker

2. An inland lighthouse, Cape Clear

There is no clear and present danger of a shipwreck occurring anywhere near Cape Clear in Victoria's western district. It is nearly 100 kilometres from the coast as the albatross flies.

The fact it has a working lighthouse, then, is more than a little random.

The 13-metre-high beacon is a charming curiosity built by Cape Clear locals, who now appreciate it for putting their pleasant but otherwise unremarkable hamlet on the map.

With its lighthouse 100km from the ocean, the hamlet of Cape Clear attracts many picnickers. ( ABC Ballarat: Gavin McGrath )

Terry Kelly, Cape Clear community committee member, said the town's lighthouse gave tourists a reason to stop.

"It is a landmark people remember," Mr Kelly said.

"They wonder, what on earth is going on? Why is there a lighthouse here? It gives us an opportunity to tell a story."

Cape Clear itself is an oddity. It was named by homesick Irish settlers who had emigrated from County Cork to mine gold. That it is not remotely coastal, let alone a cape, did not deter them.

The most southerly point of Ireland is Cape Clear Island, which, appropriately enough, has a historic beacon to warn seafarers.

Neville Hocking and his son Bradley, farmers from the district, felt their Cape Clear deserved one, too.

"We were sitting in the pub and talking about it, and we thought every cape should have a lighthouse," Mr Hocking said.

The Hocking family, Neville (left), Maxine and Bradley, came up with the idea for the lighthouse. ( ABC Ballarat: Gavin McGrath )

The lighthouse was built in 2008 around a large pole discovered in a wrecking yard. The light is fully functional and is hooked up to the streetlights.

Bradley said the community had shown a lot of forethought.

"With global warming and rising seas, we're just thinking ahead," he joked.

Gavin McGrath

3. A very big stupa, Bendigo

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is a large white-wedding cake of a building surrounded by farming properties and native bushland on the outskirts of Bendigo in central Victoria.

At almost 50 metres high, it's the largest Buddhist stupa in the southern hemisphere, and it's located at Myers Flat because Ian Green, a former advertising executive, was told by his Lama (teacher) to build it there.

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion attracts visitors from diverse backgrounds. ( ABC Central Victoria: Jo Printz )

Mr Green, who is the stupa's chair, was driven to build it by his faith, and 24 years after construction began, it attracts Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike: 125,000 visitors each year.

"There's just over 200 prayer wheels [at ground level]," Mr Green said.

"So as you walk around in a clockwise direction, which is the auspicious way to circumambulate a holy object in Buddhism, you can actually spin them.

"Each one contains 20 million mantras printed on paper." 

The effect is akin to reciting the mantras.

Mr Green believes the purpose of the stupa, a reliquary or place of holy relics, is to inspire visitors. It's a place of peace and contemplation.

The Jade Buddha at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion. ( ABC Central Victoria: Jo Printz )

It's also a physical representation of the Buddha, sitting cross-legged, with eyes painted at the top, looking out in all directions to where he can be of most benefit to others.

4. Public toilets with class, Nhill

In the Wimmera town of Nhill, a block of public toilets in the local park have become an attraction in themselves for truckies and travellers heading down the Western Highway — not because of how they look, but how they sound.

For 20 years, classical music has been playing in the western Victorian town's toilets — all day, seven days a week, through speakers connected to an iPod in the visitor information centre next door.

It was originally intended as a way to deter vandals from loitering in the toilets, and while other councils across Australia have tried similar tactics , Hindmarsh Shire believes they were among the first.

Tourism and economic development officer Jeff Woodward said it served as an effective way of welcoming people to Nhill.

"I think it's just a great first impression to the town," he said.

"Enjoy the classical music while you're visiting the toilets. [Then] taste the local coffee and have a look around the local shops and all the sights and things to see.

Hindmarsh Shire Council says it gets a lot of positive feedback about the musical toilets. ( ABC Wimmera: Andrew Kelso )

"[It] probably introduces a lot of people to classical music for their first time as well."

Although it's always been exclusively classical music on the playlist, Mr Woodward said there were no particular composers or styles chosen specifically.

"There seems to be a lot of nice, slow, relaxing stuff and then some big drums come in … I don't know whether it's themed, but it's effective."

Andrew Kelso

5. Surfing on land, Phillip Island

No list of Australian roadside attractions would be complete without a big thing.

While Phillip Island's Big Wave may not look imposing at first glance, Ripcurl store manager Sam Guzzardi says a tube like that in the water would be a monster.

Store manager Sam Guzzardi says the Big Wave is "iconic". ( ABC Gippsland: Jonathon Kendall )

The Big Wave, located in the popular Victorian town, was commissioned by the store's then-owner and constructed by "local surfer, hero, artist" Dave Fincher in 1992.

The concrete sculpture is so heavy that when it was relocated during store renovations, it had to be moved with a crane.

Located just metres from the bridge across from San Remo, anyone driving through Newhaven and onto the island will pass the Big Wave — and "more than you would think" stop to take a photo posing on its wooden surfboard.

Tourists surfing the Big Wave are rewarded with the surprise discovery of a sea-god face embedded in the sculpture. ( ABC Gippsland: Jonathon Kendall  )

"When you live here, you sort of get so used to it, you drive past it, you wouldn't even remember there's a wave here," Mr Guzzardi said.

"When you work here and you see the amount of people that stop, it's actually mind-boggling."

He says the sculpture can be compared to "substantial tubing waves" on Phillip Island, but locals keep the details of that particular wave close to their chests.

Alice Walker and Jonathon Kendall