Victoria Travelers Recommend

Cool, laid-back, and foodie, Australia’s second city is a mecca for travelers from around the world. From the dramatic seascapes of the Great Ocean Road to the boutique wineries of the Yarra Valley, Melbourne’s countryside has a lot to offer. And that’s before you get to the Mornington Peninsula’s artisan food, Phillip Island’s adorable penguins, and the koalas and kangaroos that still frequent the bush. Whether you’re cruising the Yarra River, sampling street food, strolling the city’s laneways with an expert guide, or looking out over the skyscrapers from the Eureka Skydeck 88, it pays to plan ahead. See below for the experiences you shouldn’t miss in Melbourne, and book in advance to beat the crowds and secure your place.

With dozens of vineyards and wineries set along the banks of the Yarra River and its status one of Victoria's premier wine regions, the Yarra Valley makes for an idyllic escape and popular day trip destination from Melbourne. Here's how to visit.

Highlights

• Sample the region's renowned chardonnay and pinot noir wines during an expert-led wine tasting.

• Tour big-name wineries such as Rochford, Yering Station, and Domaine Chandon, or visit one of the many cellar doors.

• Tuck into a gourmet lunch at a wine estate or winery, accompanied by carefully selected regional wines.

• It's not only wine on offer—indulge in handmade chocolates, regional cheeses, and local beers and ciders.

• Combine wine tasting with other Yarra Valley activities such as a visit to Healesville Sanctuary, a ride on the Puffing Billy Steam Train, or an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon flight.

• For a personalized experience, opt for a small-group or private tour.

Things to Know

• The Yarra Valley is located about 30 miles (50 km) east of Melbourne, about one hour away by road.

• Full-day tours to the Yarra Valley typically last between 6 and 10 hours.

• Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and light layers if visiting on a full-day tour—the region's microclimate means it can be hot during the day but quickly cool after sunset.

• Most tours include wine tasting and lunch.

Three days in Melbourne allows you to get a proper taste of the city and the surrounding area. You can explore laneways, feast on world food, watch penguins waddle home at sunset, and cruise the Yarra River. Beyond the city, you can ride the iconic Great Ocean Road and experience the Yarra Valley’s gourmet food and wine scene. Here’s how.

Day 1: City Sights and Penguin Parade

Start your day by orienting yourself within Melbourne, perhaps with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Visit sights such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, and Parliament House; stroll the banks of the Yarra River; see 18th-century Cooks’ Cottage in Fitzroy Gardens; then break for a lunch of local produce and an artisan shopping spree at historical Queen Victoria Market. Up the adrenaline by taking in the views from Eureka SkyDeck—or hovering high above the city in the glass cube called the Edge—diving with sharks at the Melbourne Aquarium, or soaking up the city’s skyline from a kayak on the Yarra River. At sunset, park yourself at Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade, watch the adorable little penguins come waddling out of the ocean and into their burrows, then return to the city to feast on a Greek or Vietnamese dinner.

Day 2: Ocean Views and Laneway Life

Spend today discovering the majestic Great Ocean Road, which winds its way beside the Southern Ocean for 249 dramatic miles (400 kilometers). Admire rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge; search for koalas in the eucalyptus trees at Kennett River; explore the timeless rain forest at Great Otway National Park; and learn about the ships that perished on the notorious Shipwreck Coast. Along the way, stop for a lunch of seafood and local wine in Apollo Bay. Once night falls and you’re back in the city, explore Melbourne’s signature urban attraction: the cobbled laneways that knit together the city center. Head to Duckboard Place or Hosier Lane for street art; wine and dine on Meyers Place or Tattersall Lane; or soak up the rock ‘n’ roll vibe on AC/DC Lane. Finish the night with a cocktail at one of the city’s signature “secret” laneway bars.

Day 3: Scenic Flights and Gourmet Tours

Get out into Melbourne’s world-renowned wine country: the rolling fields and hills of Yarra Valley, which focus on elegant cool-climate chardonnays and refined pinot noirs. Greet the sunrise gliding high above the vineyards and the river in a hot-air balloon, then savor a Champagne breakfast after you land. Next, discover the fine wines and foods of the region: tour wine estates, taste premium vintages, explore vineyards and cellars, and feast on fare from artisan cheeses to local oysters, chocolates, and even beer. Stop in the pretty town of Healesville for boutique shopping, handmade crafts, and native wildlife at the Healesville Sanctuary. If traveling with children, don’t miss the chance to ride the Puffing Billy steam train. Wrap up your stay in Melbourne with a classic city experience—a dinner cruise along the Yarra River.

With a mellower climate than most Australian cities, laid-back Melbourne is a fabulous destination to visit with kids. From hot-air balloons to ziplines, from penguins and koalas to a century-old steam train, Australia’s second city has plenty of options that the whole family will love. Here are some of the best.

• Get up close and personal with animals. See the penguins at Phillip Island; watch koalas and kangaroos; take a trip to Africa at Werribee Open Range Zoo ; or discover Australia’s unique fauna at Melbourne Zoo.
• Ride Puffing Billy, a century-old steam train, through the scenic Dandenong Ranges.
• Race through the treetops on a zipline.
• Glide above the Yarra Valley in a hot-air balloon.
• Catch a magic show.
• Hover high above the city at the Eureka Skydeck 88.

From the Yarra Valley’s vineyards to the Great Ocean Road’s sweeping coastal vistas, Victoria serves up a slideshow of postcard-worthy landscapes. But it’s not all about nature: the region is also renowned for its gastronomy and the cultural hub that is Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city. Here are some essential Victoria experiences.

Cruise the Great Ocean Road Touted as one of the world’s best coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road doesn’t disappoint. The 150-mile (243-kilometer) route winds past golden beaches and soaring sea cliffs, and is dotted with charming oceanfront towns. Join a day trip or fly overhead in a helicopter, with stunning views of the iconic Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, and Shipwreck Coast.

Catch Wildlife on Phillip Island The Penguin Parade on Phillip Island is a wildlife wonder not to be missed. In addition to koalas and Australian fur seals, this destination is known for its fairy penguins that waddle to shore at dusk. Watch them from a viewing platform as they emerge from the sea and cross the sand to their burrows.

Indulge in Melbourne’s Food Scene Melbourne has deservedly earned its place among Australia’s top culinary destinations. Queen Victoria Market showcases the city’s multicultural heritage with an abundance of local purveyors. Options include a food-tasting tour, a multicourse meal on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant, or a dinner cruise; the nearby Mornington Peninsula offers divine cheese, food, and wine experiences.

Sip Australian Wine in the Yarra Valley Wine lovers will find plenty to get excited about in the Yarra Valley—a hotbed of local artisan producers. Take time away from Melbourne to tour the wine region and sip beer, cider, or wine paired with gourmet sweets. A hot-air balloon flight takes you high above the scenic, vineyard-speckled landscape.

A wildlife haven just down the coast from Melbourne, Phillip Island is an idyllic retreat for those looking to get away from the city for a day. To savor the scenery and peek at the penguins, here are your options for day trips from Melbourne.

Phillip Island Wildlife Tours from Melbourne

Phillip Island is renowned for its wildlife, and its animal inhabitants are sure to be the focal point of your visit. Opt for a full-day tour and visit attractions such as the Maru Koala and Wildlife Park, the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and Seal Rocks, home to Australia's largest fur seal colony.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tours from Melbourne

If you only have time for one Phillip Island attraction, make it the Penguin Parade—an opportunity to watch the island's population of little penguins as they come ashore around sunset. Choose an evening Penguin Parade tour with or without access to the viewing platform, where you'll be afforded the best views, or opt for a great-value super saver deal to combine the experience with a Melbourne city sightseeing tour.

Things to Know

• Phillip Island is located about 87 miles (140 km) south of Melbourne, off the southeastern shore of the Mornington Peninsula.

• The island can be in about two hours by road from Melbourne.

• Day tours from Melbourne generally run between 6 and 12 hours. 

• Be sure to bring your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and warm clothing if you’re staying for the evening Penguin Parade—it can get chilly along the seafront at night.

• Most tours provide hotel pickup and entrance fees.

With two days in Melbourne, you can get to grips with the city’s vibrant foodie and cocktail scene, soar above the skyscrapers in a balloon, and watch adorable little penguins waddling home at dusk. You can even experience Australia’s most iconic road trip, riding through the spectacular landscapes of the Great Ocean Road. Here’s how.

Day 1: Balloons, Penguins, and Food

**Morning:**Start the day the scenic way by drifting over Melbourne’s towering skyscrapers on a sunrise balloon flight. Next, check off the star attractions from ground level, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square, perhaps via a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Finish your city explorations with a leisurely cruise down the Yarra River.

**Afternoon:**Shun lunch and get a handle on Melbourne’s diverse culinary scene with the help of a food-themed tour that includes tastings. Wander Chinatown and Little Italy; visit gourmet stores, contemporary coffee shops, and farmers markets; and then treat yourself to a happy-hour cocktail in a rooftop bar.

**Night:**Wrap up the magical day with a surreal sunset experience: watching delightful little penguins waddle in from the ocean to their burrows on Phillip Island, a nightly ritual that locals call the Penguin Parade. Once back in the city, dine on Melbourne’s signature Greek or Vietnamese cuisine.

Day 2: Road Trips and Laneways

**Morning:**The rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most beautiful seaside routes, winds beside the Southern Ocean for 249 miles (400 kilometers). Use day two to experience the road’s spectacular views and rock formations, such as the Twelve Apostles, on a day trip by car or helicopter from Melbourne.

**Afternoon:**Still on the Great Ocean Road, meet some of Australia’s unique wildlife. Look for koalas in the eucalyptus trees at Kennett River; walk with kangaroos and wallabies through ancient rain forest at Great Otway National Park; and hear tales of past shipwrecks as you explore the Shipwreck Coast.

**Night:**Back in Melbourne, discover the city’s signature experience: its vibrant laneways, home to a wealth of hidden bars, restaurants, and galleries. Soak up the street art on Hosier Lane or Duckboard Place; get down to rock ‘n’ roll on AC/DC Lane; or eat and drink on Meyers Place or Tattersall Lane.

Famous for its coastal views and wildlife reserves, Phillip Island is an idyllic escape from Melbourne. Three days leaves plenty of time to take in top attractions, get off the beaten path, and relax on secluded beaches. Here’s how to spend three days on Phillip Island.

Day 1: Wildlife & Wilderness

If you don’t have your own transport, the most convenient way to explore Phillip Island is on a tour that focuses on the island’s main attraction—wildlife. Start the morning with a wildlife-watching cruise from Cowes Jetty and admire the island’s dramatic coastline as you cruise to Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals. If you’re visiting between May and October, you might also spot dolphins and humpback whales. 

Back on the mainland, opt for an afternoon tour that transports you to the Koala Conservation Centre, where you can see koalas in their natural habitat, and Churchill Island Heritage Farm, a traditional Aussie working farm.

At sunset, head to Summerland Beach to see the famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade, when thousands of Little Penguins return to their beachside burrows after a day at sea; book admission tickets in advance to secure the best viewpoints. 

Day 2: Explore the Mornington Peninsula

Just a short ferry ride from Phillip Island, the Mornington Peninsula is renowned for its pristine beaches, scenic countryside, and excellent food and wine. A day trip is the ideal way to tick off dispersed highlights, which include Arthur’s Seat, the Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, and the Mornington Railway steam train. 

Spend the morning shopping at the peninsula’s lively markets—the Red Hill Community Market and Emu Plains Market are among the best, and boast stalls replete with artisan foods and unique souvenirs. 

In the afternoon, stop at one of the wineries in the Main Ridge, Merricks, or Red Hill districts, to sample some of the region’s top wines; several tours are dedicated entirely to wine and offer visitors the chance to sample multiple varietals. For food lovers, other must-visits include the Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm and Mornington Peninsula Chocolates. 

Day 3: Coastal Walks and Beach Breaks

Start the day with a scenic hike around Cape Woolamai, a rocky promontory at the southernmost tip of the island. The Cape Woolamai Walk takes around 2.5 hours and affords spectacular views as it winds through the Phillip Island Nature Park. Although the trail is signposted, hiking with a guide means you can venture off-road to little-known viewpoints and learn more about flora and fauna. 

Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s sandy shores. A car is essential for exploring the far-flung beaches; a tour lets you skip the hassle of hiring a car, and a guide reveals the safest spots to swim. Stop to watch the surfers at Surf Beach on the south coast, pay a visit to the nearby Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre—where the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is held—then head to the north coast to admire the stunning Red Rocks beach. 

With sun-soaked beaches, open-air festivals, and Christmas illuminations, Melbourne is at its most atmospheric during summer, and there’s no better time to experience everything Australia’s cultural capital has to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Melbourne this summer.

• Enjoy dazzling illuminations, candlelight carols, and spectacular fireworks during Melbourne’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

• Escape the city for a day wine tasting in the Yarra Valley, wildlife watching on Phillip Island, or admiring the sights along the Great Ocean Road.

• Spend the day swimming and sunbathing at the beach, then relax with a cocktail at a rooftop bar.

• Watch a movie beneath the stars at the Moonlight Cinema in the Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne, Rooftop Cinema in Melbourne’s Central Business District, or St. Kilda's outdoor cinema by the beach.

• Join the celebrations at the Australia Day Parade on Jan. 26. 

• Watch a tennis match with a bowl of strawberries and cream at the Australian Open in Melbourne Park.

• Attend a live music festival such as the Big Day Out or St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival.

• Shop for souvenirs and tuck into delicious street food at the Queen Victoria Night Market, held each Wednesday evening. 

The Great Ocean Road is a thrilling coastal drive, unveiling one postcard-worthy viewpoint after another. There are a number of ways to explore this 150-mile (243-km) route on a single- or multi-day trip—to help you choose, here are your options.

For the Time-Crunched Visitor

Day-trippers can see the best bits in one day on a Great Ocean Road day trip from Melbourne. Choose a private or group tour, and stop along the way to visit the famous Apollo Bay, explore the Shipwreck Coast, and admire the Twelve Apostles. Many tours include hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch.

For the Budget Traveler

If you have a tight budget, opt for a Super Saver or combo tour to pair your Great Ocean Road adventure with other best-selling activities such as a Melbourne city tour, a Yarra River cruise, or a visit to Phillip Island.

For the Bucket-Lister

If time is no issue, multi-day tours provide an opportunity to visit sites often overlooked by day-trippers. A two- or three-day tour from Melbourne offers ample time to check everything off your list—you can enjoy the seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, hike through the Great Otway National Park rain forest, and spot unique rock formations such as the Razorback and Dumpling Pots.

For the Active Adventurer

You don't have to drive the Great Ocean Road—those looking for a challenge can also hike along the coast. Tackle one of the Great Walks of Australia on a guided multi-day Twelve Apostles walk and hike along the coastal trails, stay overnight in a luxury eco-lodge, and cap it off with an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles.

For the Nature Lover

For a back-to-nature adventure, opt for an eco-tour or choose an itinerary that goes off the beaten track. Prime wildlife-spotting locations include the Kennett River, the Grampians National Park, and Great Otway National Park, where you'll have the chance to see koalas, grey kangaroos, and swamp wallabies in the wild.

For the VIP Globetrotter

Those who want to travel in style can opt for the ultimate adventure—a private tour of the Great Ocean Road by helicopter from Melbourne. You'll enjoy VIP treatment and hotel pickup by limousine, but the real highlight will be the spectacular bird's-eye views as you soar along the coast.

Whether you’re enjoying that precious first break as a couple or some much-needed time away from the kids, Melbourne’s romance extends beyond the city’s legendary food and wine. Here are a few ways to get romantic.

Take a Scenic Flight

The landscapes around the city are the perfect setting for love. Glide above the Yarra Valley vineyards in a hot-air balloon, or soak up the rugged landscapes of the Great Ocean Road on a helicopter tour.

Taste Wine Together

Savor the Yarra Valley’s world-class wines on a private tour of Melbourne’s wine country. Travel by convertible or Mercedes, meet the winemakers, and share tastings from chocolate to cheese.

Cruise the Yarra River

Few things are more romantic than taking in the city lights on a Yarra River cruise. Sip bubbles and nibble on oysters and sushi or savor a 4-course feast.

Ride a Horse and Carriage

Melbourne’s historic architecture makes the perfect setting for a romantic ride. Explore the city’s historic center in a horse-drawn carriage on a journey made for two.

Even in the depths of winter, the sun shines in Melbourne. The season’s cooler temperatures and smaller crowds make sightseeing a breeze. Whether you want to attend a winter festival, hit the slopes, or cozy up in an atmospheric cafe, here’s how to experience Melbourne this winter.

• Shop for souvenirs or tuck into seasonal delicacies at the Queen Victoria Winter Night Market from June to August.

• Put your skating skills to the test at the open-air ice rink in Federation Square or tackle the Melbourne Ice Slide at the Eureka Skydeck.

• Stroll along the crowd-free sands of St. Kilda Beach, then sip a hot chocolate at a beachfront cafe.

• Soak up the atmosphere at a winter festival such as the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Light in Winter Festival, Open House Melbourne, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, or the St. Kilda’s Winter Garden.

• Enjoy the weekly fireworks displays in the Melbourne Docklands.

• Watch an Australian Football League (AFL) game at one of the city’s top stadiums or snag tickets for the grand final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in September.

• Get your powder fix skiing or snowboarding at the Mount Buller ski resort or take a snow day at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort.

Australia’s second city, Melbourne lays claim to the status of the nation’s foodie capital. With one day in town, you can get a handle on the city’s geography, check off the key sights, feast on delicious fare from the Pacific and beyond, and watch the world’s smallest penguins parading home to their burrows at sunset. Here’s how.

Morning: City Slicker

Especially in summer, a sunrise balloon flight is a wonderful way to soak up Melbourne’s startling mix of sleek skyscrapers, green riverbanks, and historic laneways. Treat yourself to a Champagne breakfast when you land. Next, explore the city at ground level, perhaps with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Stroll through the Victorian-era Royal Botanic Gardens, explore vibrant Queen Victoria Market, and savor architectural masterpieces such as Parliament House alongside contemporary urban landscapes such as Federation Square. Conclude the morning with a Yarra River cruise that brings you through parks and cityscapes into the city’s modern Docklands harbor area.

Afternoon: Food Frenzy

Melbourne is Australia’s gourmet epicenter, with a food scene that stretches far beyond the coffee shops, Vietnamese and Greek restaurants, and laneway bars for which it is best known. Young chefs come from as far afield as Asia and Europe to train here. Find out what makes the city’s food scene tick as you tour ethnic enclaves such as Chinatown or Little Italy, or visit gourmet stores and farmers markets that major in artisan produce from the Yarra Valley’s fertile fields. Wrap up your explorations with a contemporary happy-hour cocktail in one of the city’s striking rooftop bars.

Night: Penguin Parade

An 1.5-hour drive south of Melbourne proper, Phillip Island is a unique wildlife reserve that’s home to a magical evening ritual. A colony of little penguins (the world’s smallest penguin species) lives here, and at dusk each night they waddle out of the ocean and into their burrows in the sand. Join a tour from the city to watch the famous Penguin Parade, and get an insight into the other local wildlife here, including fur seals. Once you’re back in the city, dine on your choice of world food—perhaps Greek street food, Greek fusion, or modern Vietnamese.

During the fall months of March through May, the weather in Melbourne can be unpredictable. Warm, sunny days are interspersed with rain showers and cool nights, so it’s best to plan for all eventualities. Here are some suggestions for how to enjoy autumn in Australia’s second city.

• See the city from above regardless of the weather with a skip-the-line admission ticket to Eureka Skydeck 88 ; upgrade to get your adrenaline fix on Vertigo or the Edge.
• Beat the rain at some of Melbourne’s kid-friendly indoor attractions, which include SEA LIFE® Melbourne Aquarium Centre and the Legoland Discovery Centre —book admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
• Get spooked on a ghost tour that covers the notoriously haunted Old Melbourne Gaol.
• Experience Melbourne’s trendy food scene on a market tour that showcases the city’s diversity.
• Browse the high-fashion boutiques of the Lanes and Arcades on a shopping tour.
• Catch the sunset during a cruise on the Yarra River ; opt for either a dinner cruise or one with coffee.
• Admire the fall colors of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden on a walking tour that focuses on Australian Aboriginal heritage.

Often hailed as Australia’s greatest road trip, a drive along the Great Ocean Road serves up photo-worthy panoramas from every angle. One day is enough time to take in the highlights, but plan your itinerary carefully to maximize your time and avoid the inevitable crowds. Here’s how to spend one day on the Great Ocean Road.

Morning: Torquay to Apollo Bay

If you’re on a time budget, a tour that includes round-trip transport is the best bet; letting someone else drive and navigate allows you to focus on the ever-changing scenery. Most day tours leave from Melbourne and range from private tours—which offer greater flexibility and the chance to tweak you itinerary—and reverse itinerary tours, which are designed to reduce your exposure to crowds.

Most tours begin at the surf town of Torquay Beach and then follow the coastal road to Anglesea, Split Point Lighthouse and Lorne, where the best views are from Teddy’s Lookout. Nearby, a short walk along the Kennet River offers a chance to spot wild koalas in their natural environment. 

Afternoon: Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles

Arrive in Apollo Bay in time for lunch at one of the oceanfront restaurants, then walk it off with a leisurely stroll through part of the Otway National Park—the popular 1-hour hiking route that leads to Triplet Falls. Continue along the Shipwreck Coast to reach one of the most photographed landmarks on the Great Ocean Road, the rock formations known as the Twelve Apostles. 

For the ultimate sightseeing experience, opt for a helicopter tour. Most take off from the Twelve Apostles and soar a little further down the coast; many day tours offer a 15-minute helicopter flight as an optional upgrade. 

Night: Sunsets and Sundowners

Arrive at Loch Ard Gorge in time to watch the sunset. Home to sandy beaches and sea cliffs, it’s the ideal place to end your road trip. Take a stroll along the cliff top trail for views of the Island Archway, Razorback, and the Salt and Pepper Shaker rock formations, then climb down to the beachside for sunset. 

Most day-trippers head straight back to the city, but if you fancy a nightcap, the nearby town of Port Campbell is a lively spot to grab a drink or spend the night. 

Less than two hours’ drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. One day leaves just enough to time to squeeze in the highlights, but plan ahead and book a guided tour to maximize your time. Here’s how to spend one day on Phillip Island. 

Morning: A Taste of Australia

Public transport is limited on Phillip Island so unless you plan to hire a car, it’s best to opt for a private or group tour that transports you between island highlights with ease. Most tours cover Cape Woolamai, the rocky promontory at the southernmost tip of the island, and the Pinnacle Lookout for dramatic ocean views. 

You’re also likely to stop at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory before visiting the nearby Churchill Island Heritage Farm, a typical Aussie working farm located on a tiny island. After watching a sheep shearing display, head to one of Phillip Island’s food hotspots, the Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant, for lunch. 

Afternoon: Ocean Views and Wildlife

Start the afternoon with a visit to one of Phillip Island’s most popular attractions, the Koala Conservation Centre. A stroll through the natural bushlands offers plenty of opportunities to spot koalas, wallabies, and echidnas in their natural environment; nearly all Phillip Island day tours visit the park. 

Afterwards, head over to the southwest coast, where a walk along The Nobbies boardwalk affords views across the Bass Strait and Seal Rocks, home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals. If you want to get a closer look at the animals, wildlife-watching cruises set sail from Cowes Jetty and offer the chance to spot whales from May to October. 

Night: Watch the Penguin Parade

The star attraction of Phillip Island is undoubtedly the nightly Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach. The beach is home to thousands of Little Penguins—the largest colony in Australia —and each night at sunset, the penguins waddle back to their burrows on the beach after a day at sea. 

To avoid disappointment on the day, pre-book a package that includes tickets to the general viewing area and round-trip hotel transfers, or upgrade to secure a spot on the Penguin Plus Viewing Platform, which offers unobstructed views of the natural phenomenon. 

Phillip Island is famous for its wildlife, but the headlining act is its little penguins who take center stage every evening during a sunset "penguin parade" and all waddle ashore to spend the night in their burrows. Here's how to catch the show.

Where to Go

The penguin parade takes place at Summerlands Beach on the southwestern shore of Phillip Island. Most tours run from Melbourne, about 85 miles (140 km) to the north, and include roundtrip transportation.

When to Go

Sunset hours provide the best time for spotting the little penguins in the wild, as this is when they return from feeding to rest and care for their young.

How to Go

Opt for an evening penguin parade tour from Melbourne. For the best view, upgrade to gain access to the dedicated viewing platform and watch the thousands of penguins descend on the beach. Alternatively, combine tickets for the penguin parade with an island sightseeing tour, a Melbourne city tour, or stops at other Phillip Island attractions such as the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Whether you’re planning an action-packed weekend away or taking a relaxing overnight trip from Melbourne, two days is just enough time to explore the secluded beaches and wildlife reserves of Phillip Island. Here’s how to spend two days on Phillip Island.

Day 1:  Coastal Views & Culinary Delights

**Morning:**The Cape Woolamai Walk is one of Phillip Island’s most rewarding hikes; hiking tours allow you to stray from the beaten path without getting lost, while exploring with a guide ensures you find safe swimming spots. 

**Afternoon:**Tours of Phillip Island often include a visit to the Rusty Water Brewery and the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, where you can sample artisan produce. After lunch, visit the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, where afternoon demonstrations include cow milking, sheep shearing, and working dog displays—book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. 

**Night:**Spend the evening at Summerland Beach, where the famous nightly Penguin Parade takes place. Pre-book tickets for the Penguin Plus Viewing Platform for the best views or get there early to secure a place in the general viewing area.

Day 2: Wildlife Watching

**Morning:**Set sail on a wildlife-watching cruise from Cowes Jetty and look out for fur seals, dolphins, and whales (from May to October) as you sail around Phillip Island. Back in Cowes, spend some time exploring the lively beach town, with its many shops, restaurants, and bars—a perfect spot for lunch.

**Afternoon:**Visit the Koala Conservation Centre, where you can spot koalas, wallabies, and echidnas in their natural environment on a bushland walk. For the best value, consider buying a 3 Park Pass, which includes entrance to Churchill Island and the Penguin Parade. 

**Night:**The lookout points at nearby Surf Beach are a great spot from which to watch the sunset. Afterwards, head to one of the resort’s restaurants, such as the popular Waterfront House, for a seafood dinner with views of the seafront. 

Less than an hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a popular choice of day trip. With just one day, time is of the essence; its recommended to book tours well in advance and to choose a tasting tour that transports you between several different wineries. Here’s how to spend one day in the Yarra Valley. 

Morning: Vineyard Views

The lush vineyards and storybook villages of the Yarra Valley offer a serene backdrop for a hot-air balloon flight. Opt for an early-morning flight to watch sunrise over the mountains and then enjoy breakfast accompanied by sparkling wine after touchdown. 

With just a day in Yarra Valley, every moment counts so squeeze in a couple of cellar door wine tastings into the rest of the morning. Be sure to go with a guide so you can learn more about the region’s diverse wine varietals, the most popular of which are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. 

Afternoon: Wine and Dine

For lunch, book a table at a Yarra Valley’s restaurant; the Balgownie Estate restaurant overlooks the vineyards and offers Segway tours around the estate. Book a package that includes a wine tasting lunch and a guided tour of the winery.

With over 80 wineries in the region, there are plenty of options for wine tasting and visiting with a private guide means you can enjoy tailored recommendations. For those on a tighter budget, there are plenty of group tours available, but don’t be tempted to go it alone—you need a car to get around, and of course, you can’t drink and drive.

Night: Sunset tasting

The Kangaroo Ground War Memorial Tower, not far from the town of Yarra Glen, is a great spot to watch the sunset, as it boasts views over Melbourne and the Dandenong Ranges.

In the evening, swap wine for something stronger and sample some of Yarra Valley’s other beverages. The region has a number of craft beer breweries, rum distilleries, and artisan cider mills. A Yarra Valley night tour is a great option as it combines multiple tastings with a pizza dinner.

Australia’s second city, Melbourne is best-known for coffee, food, and road trips. But with more than 150 years of museum history, there’s plenty for culture vultures—and families—to love. From sports to science, from trick art to prisons, here are some top museum picks.

National Sports Museum

Nestled inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia’s No. 1 sporting museum pays tribute to legends in cricket, sprinting, Australian-rules football, and more. Besides films, holograms, and memorabilia, there’s an interactive section where kids—and kidults—can test their sporting skills.

Old Melbourne Gaol

First built in 1841, this eerie structure with its cramped cells saw 133 prisoners go to their deaths before it closed in 1924. Learn about famous criminals such as Ned Kelly and the museum’s dark colonial past, or join a night tour to brave its many ghosts.

ArtVo Immersive Gallery Museum

The 3D trick-art phenomenon has taken Asia by storm. Join the fun at this pioneering gallery-museum and pose for epic selfies in your choice of 11 themed zones.

Scienceworks

Kids will love this interactive science and technology museum, suitable for preschoolers and up. Highlights include a planetarium, plenty of levers to tug and buttons to press, and the Lightning Room, with a Tesla coil.

Melbourne Museum

Dedicated to Victoria state’s natural and cultural history, the Melbourne Museum traces its story back to 1854. The modern building showcases everything from dinosaurs to Aboriginal culture, with an IMAX cinema, too.

Immigration Museum

Set in Melbourne’s Old Customs House, the Immigration Museum tells the stories of some of the millions who immigrated to Australia. An ever-changing array of exhibitions covers topics as diverse as Ramadan and tattoos.

Admire some of the world’s most dramatic coastal scenery on a tour of the Great Ocean Road, located in the state of Victoria. Australia’s famous stretch of coastline includes the sea stacks known as the Twelve Apostles, situated in Port Campbell National Park. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the right tour for you.

For the First-Timer

Travelers making their first foray to this popular destination should opt for a full-day tour with multiple stops en route. Possibilities include the seaside towns of Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, Loch Ard Gorge on the Shipwreck Coast, and wildlife viewing in Great Otway National Park. While it makes for a long day from Melbourne, you’ll have more time to linger.

For the Independent Traveler

Those traveling with friends or family or simply wanting a less “touristy” experience can enjoy a more intimate excursion on a small-group tour. These include the added benefits of better window views and personalized commentary without the crowds, plus the comfort of transport by minivan or minibus along each bend in the road.

For the Photographer

Australia’s Great Ocean Road is equally stunning from the sky, and you can view the Twelve Apostles from an entirely different perspective on a helicopter tour. Alternatively, book your coastal sightseeing to be timed with sunset to make the most of the majestic scenery with postcard-worthy pics.

For Those with More Time

If you’ve got more than a day to spend in Melbourne, consider extending a full-day trip by combining your sightseeing with other nearby attractions. Guides often include highlights such as the penguin parade at Phillip Island and a visit to Seal Rocks or the Koala Conservation Centre.

For the Natural-History Buff

Aside from glorious photo ops, nature lovers can learn more on an ecotour while exploring the rugged cliffs or visiting koalas and kangaroos. Ask questions catered to your personal interests during a private tour, and benefit from individualized attention while you discover the ecological processes that erode the famous limestone pillars.

Two days on the Great Ocean Road allows you to take your time and explore further afield; opting for an overnight tour from Melbourne lets you to focus all of your attention on sightseeing, Even if you do opt to go it alone, consider booking tours and activities along the way to add variety to your itinerary. Here’s how to spend two days on the Great Ocean Road.

Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay

**Morning:**Kick off your road trip at the town of Torquay Beach, where you can sign up for a surf class at Bells Beach, go mountain biking along the coast, or hire a trike to explore independently. Adventurous travelers can challenge themselves to a skydive for aerial views of the Great Ocean Road beaches. 

**Afternoon:**Continue along the coast, stopping for a tour of the Split Point Lighthouse—book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line—and visit Lorne to take in views from Teddy’s Lookout. A guided bush walk along the banks of the nearby Kennet River offers the chance to spot wild koalas in their natural environment. 

**Night:**Arrive in Apollo Bay in time to watch the sunset; Marriners Lookout offers panoramic views of the bay. Afterwards, head to one of the oceanfront restaurants to sample fresh fish and seafood, then walk it off with a moonlit stroll around the marina. 

Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

**Morning:**The Great Otway National Park has plenty of options for hiking and bushwalking, and it’s even possible to hike part of the Great Ocean Walk, one of Australia’s most renowned long-distance hiking trails. Alternatively, scenic short trails run to Triplet Falls, the Redwoods, or the Red Rock Lookout. 

**Afternoon:**This afternoon, follow the Shipwreck Coast to the Twelve Apostles, one of the most-photographed sights in Australia. For incredible aerial views, opt for a helicopter flight over the ocean. Nearby, Loch Ard Gorge, with its sandy beach framed by dramatic limestone sea cliffs, is a must-see for nature lovers. 

**Night:**Continue along the coast to the London Arch in the Port Campbell National Park—the striking rock formation is even more atmospheric at sunset and draws fewer crowds than Apollo Bay and Loch Ard Gorge. Nearby, the seafront town of Port Campbell is the traditional end point of Great Ocean Road trips and has a number of bars, restaurants, and hotels to choose from. 

Along with Australia’s other big cities, Melbourne is not known for its affordability. With some advance planning, though, it’s possible to check off the top attractions of Australia’s second city without breaking the bank. Here’s how.

Book a Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tour

Melbourne’s attractions are scattered throughout the city and its suburbs, so transport between them can be costly and time-consuming. Save time and money with a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour, which covers popular attractions such as Melbourne Gaol, Luna Park, and Cathedral Place and lets you explore at your own pace. 

Take a Combo Tour

Combo tours combine two or more activities and experiences at a discounted rate, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to cover more sights in less time. Top choices include tours that blend a Great Ocean Road trip with a Melbourne city tour, a Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary admission ticket, or a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train.  

Choose a Tour That Includes Tastings

Dining out in Melbourne can be expensive, so opt for a sightseeing tour that includes lunch or tastings to save money on meals. Nearly all tours of the Yarra Valley wine region include ample wine tastings, but for the best value, look for those that also include nibbles, lunch, and even chocolate. 

Buy an Attraction Pass

As well as letting you create a flexible schedule, attraction passes grant you discounted admission to some of Melbourne’s top attractions—which include the SEA LIFE® Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck 88, and the Old Melbourne Gaol. Plus, you can choose between several packages to suit your budget and the length of your stay. 

Explore Melbourne’s Green Spaces

With their diverse range of flora and fauna, Melbourne’s parks and gardens beg to be explored on foot; the best part is, they’re all completely free to enter. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring either the Royal Botanic Gardens or Albert Park.

With more wine producers than any other state in the country, Victoria is the heart of Australian viticulture. If you’re visiting Melbourne, you won’t have to travel far to find some fine bottles. Here are our picks for the best wine regions in Victoria. 

Yarra Valley

One of the most famous Australian wine regions, the Yarra Valley, just east of Melbourne, is an expanse of rolling vineyards and rural villages. A popular choice for wine tours from the city with a wide range of boutique wineries and cellars to choose from, the area is most known for chardonnay and pinot noir.

Mornington Peninsula

South of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is renowned not only for its stunning scenery and rugged coastline, but also for its its artisanal foods and homegrown wines. The most common varietals here are chardonnay and pinot noir, but oenophiles will also find some excellent bottles of pinot gris and shiraz. For the full experience, opt for a full-day tasting tour from Melbourne, which will allow you to sample the region’s gastronomic delights and visit a few wineries. 

Macedon Ranges

The lesser-known Macedon Ranges region is home to some of Victoria’s best sparkling wines. It’s just an hour’s drive from Melbourne; wine-tasting tours also run from the city of Ballarat. Here, you’ll find small, family-run wineries known for their chardonnay and pinot noir.

Goulburn Valley

Set in the lush valleys around the Nagambie Lakes, the Goulburn Valley harbors some of Victoria’s oldest wineries. Most notable is Tahbilk Winery, which dates back to the 19th century and produces the region’s acclaimed marsanne wines, as well as shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.

Heathcote

The Heathcote wine region is internationally recognized for its shiraz. Unlike neighboring wine regions, wine production here is strictly limited, making each bottle something of an exclusive treat. In recent years, a handful of small wineries and boutique producers have sprung up in the area, making it a hot destination among industry insiders.

Rutherglen

Australia’s largest wine region, Rutherglen specializes in fortified wine. The area has been producing wines since the 1870s, so many of its wineries have long, storied histories. Opt for a guided tour where you can meet the winemakers, learn more about the winemaking process, and sample the signature mucats, tokays, and rich reds.

Geelong

Adjacent to Melbourne, Geelong, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road, is a popular detour for day-trippers tackling Australia’s most famous road trip. be sure to try the region’s pinot noir, chardonnay, riesling, and viognier wines.

Grampian Mountains

The mountainside vineyards of the Grampians wine region yield an impressive selection of red wines, most famously those from Mount Langi Ghiran Winery. Leave plenty of free time when planning your trip—the spectacular scenery will distract you along the way.