Where should I go for a day trip from Melbourne?

Melbourne is Australia’s cultural hub, a vibrant city of incredible arts and music, delicious food and the world’s best sporting calendar.

Yes, we say so with the utmost confidence, and whilst cities like Adelaide, Hobart and Sydney have their own charms on offer, none of them quite rank with the fun and excitement of The Garden City.

One of the things that makes Melbourne such a special place to visit is its close proximity to a diverse array of rural locations. From a stunning coastline to forested valleys and towering clifftops, Melbourne is a daytripper’s delight.

Here are some of the incredible day trips you can take from the city of Melbourne, and why they’re all worth it in their own special way.

• The Great Ocean Road

  One couldn’t start this extensive list without the Great Ocean Road, Australia’s answer to California’s Pacific Highway or Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The Great Ocean Road is dotted with stunning beaches, world class surf, stylish towns and tranquil stays, and is the ultimate day trip from Melbourne.

  If you can, make your way out to the otherworldly Port Campbell National Park, home of some of the most incredible rock formations in Australia.

• The Yarra Valley

  The Yarra Valley is a beautifully charming and tranquil region just 30km from the Melbourne CBD. Revered as one of Australia’s world class wine regions, it is home to some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir this proud winemaking nation exports. It is the perfect place for a day trip of cellar door tastings as well as hikes through charming pine forests.

• Wilsons Promontory

  Wilsons Promontory has long held a special place in the hearts of Aussie travellers, and it has since become a world famous hotspot for tourists eager to enjoy its stunning surroundings. Despite its magnitude, there is plenty you can do in Wilsons Prom on one day, including chilling back at one of its expansive beaches or heading up to Mount Oberon for one of the Southern Hemisphere’s richest sunsets.

• The Grampians

  The Grampians are unlike anywhere else in Australia: a sprawling landscape of majestic lookouts, cascading waterfalls, rugged peaks and Indigenous culture. A visit to the Grampians is always complete with awe-inspiring views and tranquil hiking trails, making it a real favourite for people looking for some open space and serenity.

Related article: What can you do in Melbourne for 3 days?