Melbourne is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity, world-class dining, and stunning natural landscapes. This 5 day Melbourne itinerary covers the best places to visit in Melbourne city and includes exciting day trips to the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles, Yarra Valley, and Dandenong Ranges. We’ve also included budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs.
First let’s make sure you have everything you need for your trip away-
Tips for Travelling Australia
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Compensation for delayed or canceled flights: Since 2013, AirHelp has helped more than 10 million passengers understand their rights and receive up to €600 in compensation for delayed or canceled flights.
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Trip Advisor: Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site to discover where to stay, what to do, and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than one billion reviews and opinions of nearly eight million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants, and discover great places nearby.
Find the cheapest flights: WayAway is a flight aggregator that provides travelers with the best rates on airline tickets. Users can also purchase the WayAway Plus membership plan, which gives cashback on flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and more.
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Day 1: Exploring Melbourne City
Morning:
• Federation Square: Start your day at Melbourne’s iconic cultural precinct. Visit the Ian Potter Centre to see Australian art and explore the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).
• Flinders Street Station: Take some photos of this historic railway station, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Melbourne.
Afternoon:
• Queen Victoria Market: Enjoy a foodie adventure at this bustling market. Try some local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
• Royal Botanic Gardens: Relax and stroll through these beautifully landscaped gardens. Don’t miss the Aboriginal Heritage Walk for insights into Indigenous culture.
Evening:
• Laneway Bars and Street Art: Explore Melbourne’s famous laneways, such as Hosier Lane, for vibrant street art and finish the evening with a drink at one of the hidden bars like Eau De Vie.
Accommodation Options:
• Budget: Space Hotel – Affordable and centrally located with great facilities.
• Mid-Range: Oaks Melbourne on William Suites – Comfortable apartments with city views.
• Luxury: Crown Towers Melbourne – Luxurious rooms with exceptional service and amenities.
Day 2: Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles
Morning:
• Self-Drive Along the Great Ocean Road: Start early and drive towards the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Make sure to stop at the Memorial Arch for a photo.
Afternoon:
• Lorne and Apollo Bay: Take a break in these charming seaside towns. Enjoy lunch at a local café and explore the beaches.
• Twelve Apostles: Arrive at this natural wonder in the late afternoon for stunning views. Walk along the boardwalks and enjoy the breathtaking limestone stacks.
Evening:
• Return to Melbourne or Stay Overnight: Depending on your preference, you can return to Melbourne or stay overnight near the Great Ocean Road.
Accommodation Options:
• Budget: Apollo Bay Eco YHA – Eco-friendly and budget-friendly hostel.
• Mid-Range: Seafarers Getaway – Beachfront accommodation with stunning views.
• Luxury: Chris’s Beacon Point Villas – Luxury villas with panoramic ocean views.
Day 3: Yarra Valley Wine and Dandenong Ranges
Morning:
• Drive to Yarra Valley: Head out early to the Yarra Valley, famous for its wineries and gourmet food.
• Wine Tasting: Visit some of the best wineries, such as Domaine Chandon and Yering Station. Enjoy wine tastings and learn about the wine-making process.
Afternoon:
• Lunch at a Winery: Have a delicious lunch at one of the winery restaurants, like Oakridge Wines, which offers stunning vineyard views and gourmet cuisine.
• Dandenong Ranges: Drive to the Dandenong Ranges and explore the beautiful scenery. Take a walk through Sherbrooke Forest or visit the famous Puffing Billy Railway for a scenic train ride.
Evening:
• Return to Melbourne or Stay Overnight: You can head back to Melbourne or stay in the Dandenong Ranges for a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Accommodation Options:
• Budget: Healesville Hotel – Affordable and charming accommodation in Yarra Valley.
• Mid-Range: Yarra Gables – Comfortable and well-located in Healesville.
• Luxury: Chateau Yering Hotel – Historic luxury hotel with elegant rooms and fine dining.
Day 4: Discovering Melbourne’s Cultural Gems
Morning:
• National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): Spend your morning exploring Australia’s oldest and largest art museum. The NGV hosts an impressive collection of art from around the world.
• Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy a walk through the beautiful gardens.
Afternoon:
• Melbourne Zoo: Home to over 320 animal species, this zoo offers a fun and educational experience for all ages.
• Brunswick Street, Fitzroy: Head to Fitzroy for a vibrant afternoon exploring unique shops, street art, and eclectic cafes.
Evening:
• Southbank and Yarra River: End your day with a stroll along the Southbank Promenade. Enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants and take in the beautiful city skyline.
Day 5: Day Trip to Phillip Island
Morning:
• Drive to Phillip Island: Start your day with a drive to Phillip Island, famous for its wildlife and coastal scenery.
• Koala Conservation Centre: Visit this sanctuary to see koalas up close in their natural habitat.
Afternoon:
• Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit: If you’re a motorsport fan, visit the circuit and even take a guided tour.
• Nobbies Centre: Explore the boardwalks with stunning views of Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony.
Evening:
• Penguin Parade: End your day by watching the famous Penguin Parade at sunset, where little penguins return to their burrows after a day at sea.
Accommodation Options:
• Budget: The Island Accommodation – Modern and affordable.
• Mid-Range: Kaloha Holiday Resort – Comfortable accommodation close to the beach.
• Luxury: Silverwater Resort – Luxurious apartments with panoramic ocean views.
This 5 day Melbourne itinerary offers a perfect blend of Melbourne city’s highlights, scenic day trips, and diverse accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Melbourne, driving along the stunning Great Ocean Road, or enjoying a relaxing wine tour in the Yarra Valley, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your time in this vibrant city and its beautiful surroundings.
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