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Victoria offers an array of experiences, from the bustling urban life of Melbourne to the serene landscapes of its national parks and coastal areas. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended tour, Victoria promises an unforgettable adventure with its diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage. We have put together this list
Great Ocean Road
Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, offers breathtaking ocean views and iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Lorne, Bells beach and Great Otway National Park. Beside that you can also find the seaside towns, world-class surf beaches, and emerging culinary scene and breathtaking natural wonders along this stretch of tarmac. On one side are crashing waves and limestone stacks and on the other are rainforests with giant tree fern. It is certainly best for the ultimate road trip experience.
It starts from Torquay stretching over 243 km and finishes in Allansford near Warrnambool.
Distance: Approximately 104 km from Melbourne CBD to the beginning point of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay
The Twelve Apostles
After the most iconic sight and trip the Great Ocean Road, one can say that the Twelve Apostles provide a fitting climax to the exciting journey. The Twelve Apostles is another much-photographed place in Victoria.
These soft limestone cliffs rising majestically from the ocean stacking just off the Port Cambell shore, are dynamic and changeable with constant erosion from the unceasing waves. Today only seven Apostles can be seen from a network of a viewing platforms connected by timber boardwalks around the clifftops. There’s pedestrian access to the viewing platforms from the car park at the Twelve Appostles Visitors Centre via tunnel beneath the Great Ocean Road. The best time to visit is sunset, not only for the optimum photographic opportunities but also to see little penguins returning ashore from time to time.
Close to the Twelve Apostles is Gibsons Steps which are the steps that lead down to wild Gibson beach.
A visit to London bridge is also quite common while visiting the Twelve Apostles, which is about 18.2 km away from the Twelve Apostles and has indeed fallen down and it was once a double-arched rock platform linked to the mainland but in 1990 the bridge collapsed.
On the way to the Twelve Apostles you can also stop by Lorne beach, Apollo bay and the Great Otway National Park which features waterfalls, rainforests and diverse wildlife.
Distance: Approximately 272 km via Great Ocean Road from Melbourne CBD
Geelong
Geelong is the second most populated city in Victoria after Melbourne and has a rural and industrial past. It is located on Corio bay and offers many recreational activities thanks to the waterfront precinct and surf beaches.
Geelong waterfront is very popular place for the great view of the ocean, sandy beach and walking trail. There is a section designated for swimming within eastern beach promenade. You can take the beautiful pictures around Cunningham Pier, at the eastern beach lookout and even with colourful bollards/sculptures.
There is also a limited ferry service from Geelong to Portarlington and Docklands on which you can relax and enjoy the spectacular view of the bay and the city if you take the Docklands ferry.
If you happen to be in Geelong around Christmas times then you can also enjoy the Floating Christmas Tree & Light Show.
Adventure Park is another popular place in Geelong if you like water slides, rides and water fun. It’s about 20 mins drive from Geelong but it’s open for water fun only in summer time.
Ferry service from Queenscliff to Sorrento is another popular thing to do if you are in Geelong and Queenscliff is about 33km away from Geelong.
Geelong is about 1 hour away from the city on a train and you can take Vline train to get to Geelong.
Distance: Approximately 77 km from Melbourne CBD
Phillip Island:
Located just about 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s most treasured destinations. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and exciting activities, this picturesque island offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker or someone who enjoys tranquil coastal retreats, Phillip Island is a must-visit.
It is safe to say that the most iconic attraction on Phillip Island is the Penguin Parade. It is a magical experience where visitors can watch little penguins return to shore after a day of fishing. The sight of these adorable creatures waddling across the beach at sunset is unforgettable, and specially designed viewing areas ensure minimal disruption to their natural habitat.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Phillip Island is a sanctuary. The Koala Conservation Reserve offers a chance to walk among treetops and observe koalas in their natural environment.
There are also some very nice beaches in Phillip Island. Cape Woolamai a haven for surfers with its powerful waves. Families can enjoy the calm waters at Cowes Beach, perfect for swimming and picnics. Fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular activities around the island.
If you are a motorsport fans, then the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is a real highlight. Hosting events like the MotoGP, Supercars Championship, and various track days, this circuit adds an adrenaline-fueled edge to the island’s offerings. You can even participate in go-karting or tours of the circuit.
After a day of adventure, unwind with Phillip Island’s incredible local produce. The island is dotted with cafes, restaurants, and wineries that offer fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, and boutique wines. The Bass Strait views provide the perfect backdrop to a delightful dining experience.
The island’s natural beauty is best experienced on foot. Walking trails like the Cape Woolamai Coastal Walk or Pyramid Rock Lookout offer breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and endless ocean. These trails provide ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s tranquility.
For families, places like A Maze’N Things offer unique interactive puzzles, mini-golf, and optical illusions. The Phillip Island Wildlife Park is another great option, allowing kids to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies and learn about native animals.
Phillip Island is truly a destination that has it all—stunning landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a range of activities to suit every interest. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, the island promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Distance: Approximately 143 km from Melbourne CBD
Sovereign Hill, Ballarat:
Roughly about one and half hour from Melbourne, Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum or we can say a small replica of old village within the current modern city.
This site was mined in the gold-rush era and most of the equipment is original and so is the mine shaft along with historic buildings and huts.
It is certainly worth visiting there as it provides you with an one of a kind experience that you can not get anywhere in this modern day and age and make you will feel like you have travelled back in history. Beside taking pictures with costumed actors, mine tour and horse coach rides, watching the hourly gold pour, gold panning in the water stream is the most popular activities in Sovereign Hill and if you find the tiny gold pieces in the stream then you can keep it.
You will need to set aside at least half a day to visit this fascinating re-creation of Ballarat’s 1850s gold-mining township.
There is an entry fee to get in.
Ballarat is one of the greatest gold-mining towns on earth and the mineral continues to provide most of the town’s major attractions even long after the end of the gold rush. While in Ballarat, you can also visit the Wildlife Park, the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Lake Wendouree and Botanical garden, a lovely place for a stroll. Ballarat is the third most populated city in Victoria after Melbourne and Geelong.
You can catch the Vline train from the Melbourne city to get to Ballarat and about 1 and half hour away from the city on a train.
Distance: Approximately 115 km from Melbourne CBD
Grampians National Park:
Grampians National Park is a breathtaking natural treasure located in western Victoria, Australia. Spanning over 1,672 square kilometers, this park is renowned for its rugged mountain ranges, stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and rich Aboriginal heritage. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, the Grampians offers something for everyone.
The Grampians are characterized by spectacular landscapes, dramatic sandstone peaks, lush valleys, and vibrant wildflowers.
You can visit the Pinnacle Lookout, a challenging hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and valleys.
MacKenzie Falls is another attraction in Grampians, which is one of Victoria’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls, where you can enjoy the sight and sound of cascading water.
This park is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, rock climbing & abseiling and wildlife watching, kangaroos, emus, and native birds are commonly spotted, adding to the park’s charm.
The Grampians is also a biodiversity hotspot, particularly famous for its spring wildflower displays.
It is certainly recommended that you always carry water, wear sturdy footwear, and check weather conditions before heading out.
Accommodation: Options range from camping sites to cozy lodges in nearby towns like Halls Gap.
Distance: Approximately 257 km from Melbourne CBD