The best road trips from Melbourne

Here's where to go on a four-wheeled adventure around Victoria

By Time Out editors Posted: Friday May 29 2020

Car driving the Black Spur — Photograph: Visit Victoria

Victoria is a fantastic state to explore by car. From idyllic coastal towns to breathtaking alpine regions, our state has got a bit of everything. Buckle up and get ready to explore Victoria on one of the best road trips from Melbourne. We've done all the research so all you need to do is hop in the car and choose where to go.

For more holiday inspo, check out these national parks within driving distance or one of Victoria's best scenic drives.

According to advice from the Department of Health, overnight stays are allowed across regional Victoria, cultural venues are permitted to reopen and restaurants and cafés can offer dine-in service. Some restrictions apply and physical distancing measures remain in place. Check with individual venues for specific opening details.

Driving north of Melbourne

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Bendigo

Venture just a few hours from Melbourne and you'll find a town packed with culture, history and top-notch dining and drinking.

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Daylesford

This village is more than just good looks: the day spas and boutique hotels are world-class.

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Castlemaine

Here is this buzzing creative centre of Victoria, music festivals and world-class restaurants are just the beginning.

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Ballarat

When it comes to creativity, Ballarat is bursting with artists and makers doing things differently and reaping the rewards.

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The High Country

The Victorian High Country is home to award-winning craft beer, wine and food, plus bushranger history and glorious walks.

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Yackandandah

Visit a town filled with quirky shops, delicious bakeries and some of the friendliest people south of the Murray.

Driving south of Melbourne

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Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula welcomes you with seaside villages, wines, golfing, diving and surf breaks.

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Mornington Peninsula

Take a break here for fine hot springs, wineries (some of the state's best) and a whole lot of golf.

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The Great Ocean Road

Justifiably one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations, the Great Ocean Road is one of the finest places to explore by car.

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Phillip Island travel guide

Known for its colony of Little Penguins and the most spectacular Grand Prix Circuit in the world, Phillip Island has plenty to offer for visitors.

Driving east and west of Melbourne

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The Yarra Valley

Only an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is the perfect road trip for those who love fine food and wine

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The Grampians

This dazzling region is populated by high sandstone peaks, gorgeous wildflowers and the epic Pinnacle walk.

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Macedon Ranges

This cool climate wine region has a growing reputation for its sparkling wines.

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East Gippsland

If Melbourne’s market-fresh produce and overcrowded wine cellars aren’t quite authentic enough for you, a trip to East Gippsland should satisfy your cravings.

More road trip destinations

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The best waterfalls in Victoria

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Where to find Victoria’s pink lakes

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