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31 Best Day Trips from Melbourne Victoria (+ Weekend Getaways!)

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 09/27/2023

Categories Victoria (Vic)

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If you are looking for the best day trips from Melbourne look no further!

We have you covered with the best places to go near Melbourne (within a 3 hour drive) and also places that are up to a 4 hour drive that you can take on weekend trips from Melbourne.

We have done the hard research for you! 31 TOP places to visit near Melbourne right here.

While in Melbs, see also:

• Things to do in Melbourne at Night
• Romantic Things to do in Melbourne
• Best Breakfast Melbourne CBD
• Romantic Restaurants in Melbourne
• Melbourne bucket list
• Best Day Spas in Melbourne

Need Melbourne Car Rental? We have secured a further 5% discount code with Bargain Car Rentals for our readers off their lowest rates!

31 Day Trips from Melbourne (+ a few Weekend Trips from Melbourne)

Williamstown (25 minutes from melbourne cbd).

Located 25 minutes from Melbourne on Port Phillip Bay, Williamstown is a nice relaxing place for a quick getaway. The first port settlement is teeming with museums, historical landmarks, quaint shops, and restaurants, providing a little for everyone!

If city life is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of parks for a walk or relaxing at the Williamstown Beach. This port side town is a perfect place for a day trip along the water, but not straying too far from home. One of the best attractions near Melbourne to visit.

Want to stay overnight? Quest Williamstown is a nice spot!

Image credit: Visit Melbourne

Queenscliff (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The small seaside resort town of Queenscliff, has a lot to offer. The picturesque views can be seen from every part of the peninsula, creating a very serene and relaxing atmosphere.  Victorian architecture, wide boulevards, and museums make Queenscliff a haven for new and established history buffs.

Family friendly activities, are also in abundance, such as the Queenscliff Music Festival, snorkelling, surfing and various river cruises. This day trip will surely be one to remember!

Fancy an overnight hotel with spa bath? Why not stay and make it a romantic getaway from Melbourne at Vue Grand Hotel 

Lake Mountain (2 hours north from Melbourne CBD)

Snow sports are the main attracting at Lake Mountain. Located two hours north of Melbourne, Lake Mountain is home to the most popular cross country ski resort in Australia. There are plenty of snow related activities such as a tube run, tobogganing, and even snowboard lessons for kids.

Playing in the snow, is just one of the benefits to this mountain, because there are also bushwalks, mountain bike trails, and a zip line, if warm activities are more your speed! This family friendly place, brings a little something for everyone and is sure to make everyone happy.

Geelong (1 hour south west from Melbourne CBD)

Geelong is a small city southwest of Melbourne. This small port city has many attractions along its bay side area including the Waterfront esplanade, the 19 th century carousel, and the art deco boardwalk. The vibrant artistic scene ensures a historic and unique experience for all visitors.

The Geelong Botanic Garden and Eastern Beach provide opportunities to explore nature close to home! A day trip to Geelong, will leave visitors entranced by the vibrant life and history of this port city! One of the best easy day trips from Melbourne!

Hanging Rock Reserve, The Macedon Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Sacred pre-historic volcanic rocks are the main attraction at Hanging Rock Reserve. Home to some of the best food and wine places in the areas, Hanging Rock is not just home to outdoor activities. There are opportunities to explore the artistic mediums of the people who live here, along with cultural experiences, such as plays, musicals, and even concerts!

Each of these activities use the Hanging Rock Reserve as its background, where adventurers can experience hiking trails and opportunities to learn the history of the volcanic rock formation. The Macedon Ranges has something for everyone!

Lorne (2 hours from Melbourne CBD)

There are plenty of popular tourist activities in Lorne to make any family day trip memorable. Many outdoor adventure activities populate the town, such as, swimming, surfing, pier fishing, and even some hiking. All of these activities provide splendid views of the Great Ocean Road and picturesque nature views.

Lorne is host to many cultural festivals that make it an appealing artistic venue for locals. Any trip to Lorne will be sure to leave you excited and awe inspired by the many opportunities this place has.

Wilsons Promontory National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Reconnecting with nature and experiencing wildlife in its natural habitat, are just a few of the unique opportunities Wilsons Promontory National Park offers. The winding trails lead hikers from the Tidal River to the beautiful white quartz sand of Squeaky Beach, ensuring you will feel rejuvenated.

The nearby Mount Oberon, provides scenic views of the Bass Straight and nearby islands; while the Lightstation provides a unique historic glimpse back to the 19 th century.

Bendigo (1 hour, 50 minutes north from Melbourne CBD)

The historic gold rush town of Bendigo lies an hour and 50 minutes from Melbourne. Each unique tourist experience, such as the tour of the Central Deborah Mine or the Golden Dragon Museum, allows you to learn and appreciate the history of Bendigo.

The award winning wine region offers a wide variety of food and drink, and are heralded for their Shiraz. So no matter what your poison, Bendigo offers experiences for everyone!

Grampians National Park (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Grampians National Park is home to the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre, bringing to light the local Aboriginal history and rock art. Around the centre is a sprawling nature reserve, home to echidnas and wallabies. The winding trails lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks of the Victoria Mountain Range. While, Halls Gap Zoo, the largest regional zoo in Victoria, exhibits over 160 native and exotic animals.

This unique park, even offers an award winning wine village and glamping experiences. Each activity will be sure to keep you and your family engaged with all aspects of nature.

Ballarat (1 hour, 30 minutes from  Melbourne CBD)

As the third largest city in Victoria, Ballarat is home to a diverse tourist market. Each award winning attraction and unique experience provides a day trip visitor an experience they will never forget. The Ballarat Wildlife Park offers a relaxing atmosphere allowing humans and animals to interact one on one to create memorable moments.

Kyral Castle offers kids the opportunity to experience medieval activities and broaden their imagination. Kids and adults alike will be clamouring to go back!

Yarra Valley (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The wine region of the Yarra Valley, boasts a cool climate known for producing Chardonnay. But there are family friendly activities for all day trippers! Many wineries in the area provide activities for children, while adults experience the luxury of the wineries. Along with wine, a unique experience that is a must do in the Yarra Valley, is the sunrise hot air balloon experience with Global Ballooning Australia. The spectacular views of the Yarra Valley are on display as you gaze at the beautiful sunrise.

Great Ocean Road (1 hour and 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The 664 kilometre stretch of The Great Ocean Road, provides spectacular views of the coast of Australia, along with plenty of new experiences. The Great Ocean road can be a multiple day trip, or be shortened to one day. All along this winding war memorial, are surfing spots and spectacular sights, such as the 12 Apostles. These iconic rock formations dot the coastline, and ensure a unique experience for any traveller.

Each town The Great Ocean Road passes through, there are award winning and unique food destinations any foody will love! No matter how long or short your trip is on The Great Ocean Road, you will make memorable moments!

The Dandenong Ranges (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Adventure awaits at The Dandenong Ranges. The vibrant and exotic fauna and flora of the ranges, provide a magical and magnificent adventure away from the city. The cool Climate Garden offers visitors the ability to learn and study a wide collection of rare plants. Gumbuya World, Melbourne’s largest theme park, boasts an assortment of wildlife along with adventures for all types of thrill seekers. The Dandenong Ranges provide something for everyone to explore the wonders and joys of nature.

Mornington Peninsula (1 hour, 10 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Home to the Wine Food Farmgate Trail, Mornington Peninsula is a treasure trove of wonderful food and wine. Between food/wine stops, visitors enjoy the activities and attractions that populate the area. Historic garden hedges and mazes provide inspiration for the visitor, while activities, such as paddle boarding, at the beach provide relaxation. Each attraction on the peninsula provides something for everyone, leaving the entire family begging for more.

Daylesford (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The unique landscape of Daylesford provides an opportunity to explore the area of an extinct volcano. Utilizing the mineral springs in the area, the town is home to many natural healing therapies and spas, helping a weary traveller to find relaxation and peace. The region is also home to many walking trails and camp grounds, allowing any visitor the opportunity to explore the lush greenery of the area.

Phillip Island (2 hours south of Melbourne CBD)

Philip’s Island is best known for its Little Penguins that come into shore around sunset. Spectators gather for this unique opportunity once a day at Summerland Beach to see this ‘Penguin Parade.’ The wildlife residing on Philip’s Island makes each day a new opportunity to see something new. If wildlife is not your interest, then there are also beaches, fantastic eateries, and the Philip Island Circuit (a legendary track for racing).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyVRl1owBXw

Pentridge Prison (30 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

The Victorian Heritage Register has protected many of the buildings located at Pentridge Prison. The prison is home to various art exhibits as well as some spooky ghost tours. Some of the buildings are currently under restoration to be made into housing, retail, and open spaces for the public. Today, you can go to Pentridge and visit the prison and learn about its historic nature.

St Kilda (20 mins from of Melbourne CBD)

Excitement and adventure can be found at nearly every corner in St Kilda. The beachside town is known for its beachside activities and promenade. Only being twenty minutes from Melbourne, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing is abound. Each shopping and eating experience holds new opportunities and experiences to explore St Kilda’s diverse culture. A vibrant culture teeming with artistic talent makes this beachside town a perfect day trip.

Bellarine Peninsula (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The abundance of food and wine located on the Bellarine Peninsula is a foodie’s paradise. The fresh bounty along the Bellarine Peninsula Taste Trail, ensures you and your car will not go home empty. The serene views and distinctive landscape allow for adventures of both the land and sea variety. Art galleries, festivals, and eco-adventures populate the area ensuring each person will find something amazing to do on this day trip adventure.

Healesville (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

Healesville lies close to the Yarra Valley making this a nice day trip for those interested in a variety of activities. The boutique shops and art galleries provide new inspiration for budding artistes; while the Glassblowing Studio gives visitors the opportunity to witness the historic art of glassblowing. An Animal Sanctuary and park walks allow you to experience nature one on one and explore the lush greenery of the region.

Flinders (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

Flinders offers a unique architectural experience, with a preserved streetscape and historic shops. Lying on the coast of the Bass Strait and Westernport Bay, Flanders is home to Cape Schanck and the cleanest air in the world. The coastal walk among the bluestone boulders along the Flinders Blowhole Walk, ensure a beautiful view of the ocean coastlines and native animals.

Kyneton (1 hour from Melbourne CBD)

The gold rush brought the thriving village of Kyneton to life. If you enjoy history and picturesque views, Kyneton may be the place for you. Adventurous wine tastings, are sure to leave you raving about the wine of the region; while the bushwalks and village tours allow you to experience the history and natural beauty of the region.

The festivals and other artistic events held here every year are vibrant and diverse, allowing for new interests and activity to excite visitors!

Marysville (1 hour, 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD)

The beautiful town of Marysville is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. The distinct Yarra Ranges National Park is located here, and provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.

After rebuilding from a raging bushfire, Marysville is a picturesque town rebuilt from the ashes. This small town serves as a launch pad for people who would like to visit the Alpine Resort in winter or a place for hungry hikers to get a bite to eat.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Weekend Trips from Melbourne Getaways

Bright (3 hours, 30 min from melbourne cbd).

Lying at the base of Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park, Bright is a region known for its fall foliage and unique experiences. Bright is a place to visit during warm and cold times of year. There are plenty of biking and hiking trails in Bright, along with skiing and snowboarding on Victoria’s Alps. Not only are there plenty activities but they have a world class foodie scene. Boutique restaurants and wineries line the streets, making this the perfect place for a long weekend getaway.

Mount Buller (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

Mount Buller is a winter resort village situated three hours from Melbourne. The snowy ski slopes and terrain parks, make this an opportunity you cannot miss. Mount Buller is also home to the National Alpine Museum, chronicling the history of Australian’s winter sports.  A sports lover’s paradise, Mount Buller, ensures all adrenaline junkies will find an activity that suits them no matter the time of year.

Beechworth (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

A historic and charming town, Beechworth is home to many natural experiences. The hiking and biking trails around the area provide serene views of the valley and historical knowledge.  This once gold rush town, now has an artistic scene connected to nature, along with historic buildings. This long weekend getaway is made for those who like to enjoy nature, while also experiencing life in a small town.

Rutherglen (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Along the Murray River, Rutherglen is known as one of premier wine regions in Victoria. Populated with wineries, this popular place makes for a great long weekend getaway. Along with winery tours, there are plenty of biking and hiking trails. This little slice of paradise, will appeal to the wine lovers and adventure seekers allowing you to have a weekend you will never forget!

Metung (3 hours, 30 min from of Melbourne CBD)

If an escape to the coast is your wish, Metung may be the destination for you! The relaxed village atmosphere is perfect for all the water sport activities and experiences any adventurer will love. Fresh seafood and farm to table restaurants create a unique dining experience. At the foot of the Great Alpine Road, this vacation village is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the road and allows you to explore the Gippsland Lakes from land and water!

King Valley (3 hours from Melbourne CBD)

A slice of Italy in Victoria, awaits you in King Valley. Wineries and Italian eateries line the valley and create the Prosecco Road. Festivals in June have local wineries open their doors to visitors and do winery walkabouts. Liking wine is a must, when visiting this area. The locally grown grapes and ingredients make the food and dining experience different from any other area of Australia.

Apollo Bay (3 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

On the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a well-known surfing spot for the surfing aficionado. The pristine coastal waters allow for any water sport fanatic to find something to do. Art, farmers markets, and pristine hikes, allow for fantastic views of the Great Ocean Road, while celebrating the culture of Apollo Bay. This getaway is certain to provide diverse experiences and have something for everyone!

Mildura (6 hours from of Melbourne CBD)

Mildura is the centre of Victoria’s Food Bowl, growing most of the citrus fruits in the region. The beautiful sunsets and clear night skies make Mildura a nice relaxing getaway. There are activities for the whole family, including an Aquacoaster and various biking activities. This historical region even has a vibrant art scene and boutique retail stores, making the region a unique and interesting place for the long getaway!

Don’t forget to end your trip with some epic Australian Quotes !

Tip: If you bring a kid on the trip don’t forget safety first! If you need a new carseat, check out our guide one the best narrow carseats Australia

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Melbourne

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Beautiful beaches, quirky wildlife, spa towns, and spectacular wilderness areas — you'll find all this and more within a few hours' drive of Melbourne . One of the country's most dazzling scenic drives, the Great Ocean Road, lies less than 200 kilometers from the city, as well as gorgeous Grampian National Park, the gleaming white-sand shores of Wilsons Promontory, and the rugged Dandenong Ranges.

Wildlife is a highlight at many of these city escapes. You can watch penguins parading up a pristine beach at Phillip Island, and see colorful parrots, wild kangaroos, and wombats in the national parks.

In addition to the rich natural beauty just a short drive from the CBD, Victoria's elegant seaside resorts charm visitors with their quaint shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants. History buffs can explore an old gold rush town. And if you're looking for Melbourne day trips in winter, skiers and snowboarders can carve up the slopes of Mount Buller less than a three-hour drive from the city.

Step outside the city limits and explore the surroundings with our list of the best day trips from Melbourne .

1. Great Ocean Road

2. phillip island's penguin parade, 3. the mornington peninsula, 4. the dandenong ranges and the yarra valley, 5. peninsula hot springs, 6. grampians national park, 7. wilsons promontory national park, 8. daylesford: day spas and mineral springs, 10. sovereign hill at ballarat, 11. mount buller skiing, 12. hanging rock reserve, the macedon ranges, map of day trips from melbourne.

About 200 kilometers from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most spectacular stretches of coastline and a top place to visit on a road trip. The drive from the city carves along steep sea cliffs, as well as the surf-thrashed beaches of Port Campbell National Park, where the distinctive rock pinnacles, the Twelve Apostles , tower above a swirling sea.

Other Great Ocean Road highlights include the wind- and sea-sculpted rock formations of Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch.

Mother Nature's power is on dazzling display here. To fully appreciate it, hop aboard a helicopter for a bird's-eye view of this dramatic coast, also called the Shipwreck Coast . While in the area, you can take a walk near koala-rich Kennett River ; look for kangaroos and wallabies in Great Otway National Park; or enjoy a different perspective of the forest at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures , including a treetop walk and zipline tour.

Are you a surfing fan? Stop in Torquay along the way to visit the Surf World Museum , and look for huge waves at legendary Bells Beach . This is also one of the best day trips from Melbourne with dogs — many of the beaches around Torquay allow pooches, and a couple allow leash-free romps.

When it comes to Melbourne road trips by car, it's hard to beat the Great Ocean Road. But if you're wondering how to get there without a car, you're in luck. You can enjoy many of these adventures on the Great Ocean Road Small-Group Eco-Tour from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes plenty of time to soak up the beautiful coastal scenery, including a hike in Great Otway National Park, Kennett River koala spotting, and a stop at Apollo Bay. A 15-minute helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles is an optional extra.

Phillip Island, about 140 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, is a top pick for wildlife lovers. Each night at sunset, visitors gather along the shore to watch adorable penguins waddle up the beach at the Phillip Island Nature Park .

Before the "Penguin Parade," you can visit some of the nearby wildlife parks. See koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Centre . Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies at Phillip Island Wildlife Park , or visit the Nobbies , a boardwalk that skirts the headland's seabird gardens with breathtaking views of the coast. Little penguins often rest along here, and in the spring, keep an eye out for silver gull chicks.

For more information on the ecology of the area, stop by the free Nobbies Centre and browse the educational displays.

Across Bass Strait from here is Seal Rocks , Australia's largest fur seal colony . Bring binoculars to see the seals, or board a wildlife cruise for close-up views. Thanks to all these educational experiences and wildlife sightings, this is one of the best Melbourne day trips for families.

An easy way to visit this top tourist attraction is on the Phillip Island Penguin Highlights Day Trip from Melbourne . This full-day excursion covers all the highlights, including wildlife viewing at Maru Koala and Animal Park, the Nobbies, and the famous Penguin Parade.

Official site: http://www.penguins.org.au/

A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the picturesque Mornington Peninsula is a favorite seaside escape from the city. Flanked by the ocean on one side and Port Phillip Bay on the other, this prime sliver of real estate hosts tranquil coves, cute villages, and rocky shores.

One of the Mornington Peninsula's top places to visit is stylish Sorrento , site of the state's first mainland European settlement. Heritage buildings, high-end shops, boutiques, and cafés are waiting for you to explore. Soak up the seaside scenery, and see the vacation homes of Australia's posh set along " Millionaire's Walk ," a five-kilometer clifftop trail above Port Phillip Bay, between Sorrento and Portsea.

Hiking is popular on back beach trails and in the rugged bushland on the end of the peninsula at Point Nepean National Park. Other highlights of the area include a ride on the scenic Sorrento-Queenscliff ferry, dolphin cruises, Peninsula Hot Springs, and the chance to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins and seals.

The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley have been a favorite weekend getaway for well-to-do Melburnians for more than a century. This day trip has a little something for everyone — from nature and wildlife to cute villages, fantastic food, and a fun ride on a historic train.

Start the day with a scenic drive through the Dandenong Ranges, about 40 kilometers east of Melbourne. Here, you can hike through rainforests of mountain ash trees to soothing cascades in the beautiful fern-filled Sherwood Forest. You can also hand-feed native birds, such as crimson rosellas, cockatoos, and galahs at Grants Picnic Ground . Nearby, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and William Ricketts Sanctuary are also worth a visit.

At Belgrave , board the 100-year-old Puffing Billy steam train and stroll around the artisan shops. You can also relax with a Devonshire tea in storybook-cute villages such as Olinda, a green thumb's delight with the excellent Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens and Cloudehill Nursery and Gardens .

Not far from here, the Yarra Valley is a haven for foodies, with fresh produce, first-class restaurants, and the chance to sample handmade farmyard cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy . Are you an animal lover? One of the top things to do in this region is visit the popular Healesville Sanctuary to see native Australian animals and birds.

Note that in June, 2021, severe storms struck the Dandenong Ranges, impacting many local businesses. Check for any closures before you visit.

Feel like being pampered? How about a soak in steamy mineral spring pools followed by a customized massage and a nourishing organic meal? You can do this and more at Peninsula Hot Springs, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne in the Mornington Peninsula.

Turkish steam bath, anyone? Reflexology walk? You can choose from 50 bathing experiences from around the world at the Bath House here. Or you might prefer a dip in a cave pool or a soak on a hilltop with breathtaking views. Steamy mineral water seeps from underground springs into the many pools set within a forest of tea trees, creating a relaxing setting to soak your cares away, no matter where you choose to take your dip.

Peninsula Hot Springs is one of the most popular short day trips from Melbourne by car. And don't think this is just for singles and couples. Families are also welcome here.

To make your visit even easier, book the Peninsula Hot Springs Day Trip with Thermal Bathing Entry from Melbourne . This full-day excursion includes transport to and from the hot springs, bath house admission, and a local expert driver so you can sit back and relax on the journey. Luxury spa treatments are an optional extra.

After your pampering visit, save time to complement your therapeutic soak with a healthy meal at the café.

Address: Springs Lane, Fingal, Victoria

Official site: http://www.peninsulahotsprings.com/

Grampians National Park (often called "The Grampians") offers beautiful vistas of waterfalls, colorful spring wildflowers, rock formations, and rugged crags. It lies about 260 kilometers from Melbourne.

Avid hikers in particular will enjoy this park, and anyone can admire the breathtaking scenery from its many panoramic lookouts. Called "Gariwerd" by the Aboriginal people, the park also shelters traditional rock art. You can learn more about this rich history and the park's ecology at Brambuk the National Park & Cultural Centre .

Other top attractions in the Grampians include the beautiful MacKenzie Falls , Victoria's tallest waterfall; Beehive Falls, with its fern-fringed rock pools; Fish Falls ; and the panoramic lookouts at the Pinnacle and the Balconies. You can also drive to Reeds and Boroka lookouts.

Wildlife is abundant. Kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and echidnas, make their home here, and sightings of friendly marsupials are common.

Besides hiking, other popular outdoor activities include abseiling and rock climbing on the faces of Mt. Arapiles, fishing and canoeing at the park's lakes and rivers, quad biking, and horseback riding. If you're considering staying overnight, Halls Gap is the gateway to the park and makes a great base. Bring a camera, and be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.

The Grampians is also a popular destination for foodies. Enjoy the excellent restaurants and fresh local produce, including olives, cheeses, and meats.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/grampians-national-park

Affectionately called "The Prom" by locals, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the state's largest coastal wilderness area and a nirvana for nature lovers and photographers. It lies on the southernmost point of the Australian mainland, about a three-hour drive from Melbourne's city center. It's a long drive for a day trip, but the spectacular scenery of squeaky-clean beaches, cool-climate rainforests, and rugged granite peaks is worth the trip.

Highlights include guided walks through the bushland, the granite rock formations of Giant Rock , the white quartz sands of Squeaky Beach , Lilly Pilly Gully , and the sea-sculpted boulders of Whisky Bay . The park is also known for its rich native wildlife, such as wombats, emus, kangaroos, and many birds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do. Scenic hikes lace the bushland, from short one-hour walks to multi-day treks. The one-hour hike up Mt. Oberon summit has one of the park's best viewpoints, overlooking the Tidal River and the coast. Divers can explore the underwater world in the marine national park. Other activities include swimming, fishing, canoeing, camping, and bird-watching. Strong hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

Skirting the Wombat State Forest, about 115 kilometers from Melbourne, a Daylesford day trip is perfect for a pampering city escape. Soothing mineral springs, wellness centers, and day spas are the prime draws in this quaint country town, earning it a reputation as the spa capital of Australia .

Drawn by these healing mineral springs and the gold rush, many Swiss and Italian immigrants settled here, imbuing the town with an old-world feel. A popular destination in the region is the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, in neighboring Hepburn Springs, which has been lavishing guests since 1895. Another must-see is The Convent , an enchanting 19th-century estate on six acres atop Wombat Hill, with beautiful views over town, impressive art galleries, a chapel, and museum.

Daylesford is also known for its many award-winning restaurants serving seasonal local produce. To dine at one of the town's top eateries, stroll around beautiful Lake Daylesford and enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Lake House , which is also a small luxury hotel. You can also browse the town's quaint shops, antique markets, and historic buildings.

About 138 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, Lorne, on beautiful Loutit Bay, has long been one of the country's favorite seaside resorts. Snuggled between Otway National Park and the Great Ocean Road , this pretty little town offers an intoxicating mix of Mediterranean ambience, seaside elegance, and natural beauty.

You'll never be bored here. Popular things to do include swimming and surfing at the long, golden beach, with its nearby cafés and skatepark, and casting a line off the local pier for fish like trevally and whiting. The pier also plays host to the fish co-op, where you can buy the fresh catch of the day. Tourists also love browsing the boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, and galleries.

Teddy's Lookout , a five-minute drive from town, offers beautiful views over the coast and Great Ocean Road. Another popular attraction in the area is Erskine Falls , rimmed by lush ferns and eucalyptus forest.

Insider's tip: During peak vacation times around Christmas, a torrent of tourists fills this tiny town, so you should book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

At Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, you can experience the exciting 1850s gold rush days in a living museum. About 110 kilometers from Melbourne, this recreated gold-mining town is one of the top attractions in Ballarat . Here, you can watch goldsmiths and artisans at work in Victorian-era houses and shops, tour an underground gold mine, and even pan for the precious metal. Costumed staff, stagecoach rides, and a dazzling sound and lights show round out all the historical fun.

The town of Ballarat was the epicenter of the Australian Gold Rush. Learn all about this important chapter of Australian history by touring the historic sites, heritage buildings, and old churches around town.

Other highlights include Art Gallery Ballarat , with works from Gold Rush artists; the beautiful 40-acre Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the banks of Lake Wendouree; and Ballarat Wildlife Park . Ballarat is also home to award-winning restaurants, so don't forget to top off your tour with a memorable meal.

Don't have a car? This is one of the most popular day trips from Melbourne by train.

Official site: http://www.sovereignhill.com.au/

In winter, rain often means snow in the mountains, so if the weather is not cooperating with your outdoor activities in the city, you can play at the snowy peaks nearby. From early June through late September (depending on snowfall), avid skiers and boarders can hit the slopes of Mount Buller, one of Australia's best ski resorts , about a three-hour drive from Melbourne.

Mount Buller has the most extensive lift system of all the Victorian resorts, with 22 lifts transporting guests to 300 hectares of skiable terrain and three terrain parks. About 35 percent caters to advanced skiers, and the resort also offers plenty of runs for beginners and intermediates. Cross country skiers can explore nine kilometers of trails.

For non-skiers, the village is a fun place to hang out. Relax at the spas, browse the shops, or take the kids to the resort's toboggan parks. This is a great trip for families seeking a first-time snow experience, as well as enthusiastic skiers and boarders looking for a wintertime city escape.

Official site: http://www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/

Rich in mystique, Hanging Rock Reserve is a wonderful wilderness escape in the Macedon Ranges. Less than an hour northwest of Melbourne, the massive 105-meter-high extinct volcano, now eroded into columns, was the location for Peter Weir's iconic film, Picnic at Hanging Rock , based on the book by Joan Lindsay.

The rock is also an important Aboriginal landmark and was reputedly a refuge for bushrangers during the Gold Rush. Even if you're not familiar with the legend that captured the imagination of many Australians, Hanging Rock Reserve is truly a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic or a hike in the fresh eucalyptus-tinged air.

The round-trip climb to the top takes about 50 minutes, with plenty of secret nooks to slither in along the way, and beautiful views over the countryside. You can also explore the other hiking trails that weave through the reserve. Keep an eye out for wildlife like wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and wombats.

More on Australia

13 things to know before going to Melbourne

Nov 29, 2023 • 10 min read

Be ready for your trip to Melbourne with these planning, packing and etiquette tips © CraigRJD / Getty Images

I’ve lived in Melbourne for over 25 years, so I can confirm the first thing everyone will tell you about Australia ’s second-largest city: the weather is variable.

It’s not quite the “four seasons in one day” that inspired the 1992 Crowded House song of that title, but the weather gods certainly spring surprises over the average Melbourne week. But guess what? That unreliable weather is partly why the city is so good at indoor pursuits, including offering up some of Australia’s best cafes, bars, restaurants , live music, theater, art galleries and shopping . 

That’s not to say that the outdoors are neglected. In addition to being the nation’s sporting capital, Melbourne is generously supplied with parks and gardens, as well as beaches around the shores of Port Phillip Bay.

From packing to health and safety, here are some tips to get the most out of this multicultural metropolis.

1. A long weekend in Melbourne is good, but a week is much better

Okay, you could squeeze a visit to this complex city into four days – with, say, three days exploring its lively central business district (CBD) and suburbs such as bayside  St Kilda , with a day left over for an excursion to somewhere more distant such as the winery-packed Yarra Valley  or the historic gold rush city of Ballarat.

But with such a diverse set of offerings – across food, drink, culture, sport and intriguing neighborhoods – a week is far better. This is not a city of attractions to be checked off a list. It's more a place of layered, hidden charms worth taking the time to discover.

2. Pack layers and dress in black

For some reason it has long been the habit of Melburnians to don somber hues, with perhaps a dash of color via jewelry or other accessories. Layers, however, are a necessity, particularly in the cool winter months of May to November.  

Melbourne is not big on enforcing dress codes, so casual clothing should suit most occasions a traveler is likely to encounter. Having said that, if you want to dress up, this is a city where fashion rules supreme. Check out clothing retailers in the Bourke St Mall, Collins St and in the Emporium shopping mall off Lonsdale St for ideas. 

3. Buy a Myki card and follow local transport etiquette

By Australian standards, Melbourne has good public transportation , especially in the city center and inner neighborhoods. The world’s largest tram (streetcar) system snakes out in all directions, supplemented by suburban trains and buses. To get moving, pick up a Myki card for $6 from train stations or convenience stores, among other outlets, and add credit: as a guide, a single trip costs $5 and one day’s travel is capped at $10 ($7.20 on weekends).

However, there are some unwritten nuances to using public transit. You’ll need to hail buses to get them to stop for you. On crowded trams, be prepared to step outside the vehicle to let people off, before jumping back on to continue your journey. And at train stations, don't forget to touch on your Myki card at the platform validators before you board your train.

4. Transport on statewide day trips only costs $10

It’s easy to get out of the city for a day trip , particularly as statewide public transportation fares are capped. That means you can travel anywhere in Victoria and you'll never spend more than $10 per day, even if you're going to a destination that's hundreds of kilometers away. As a guideline, by public transit it takes about 90 minutes to reach the  Dandenong Ranges , 60 minutes to Geelong, 90 minutes to Ballarat and two hours to Bendigo.

You might also like to rent a car to visit the  Great Ocean Road , the start of which is about two hours’ drive away in Victoria’s southwest. Be aware of distances though; unless you’re pressed for time, it’s much more enjoyable to stretch this iconic road trip over several days than squeeze it into one.

5. There's a budget way to get to/from the airport

Melbourne Airport is a fair distance from the city center, so a taxi ride can cost as much as $75. A cheaper option is to catch the Skybus, which operates at 15-minute intervals during the day, for a one-way fare of $22 ($36 return). 

If you’re keen to save more , hunt down a Myki vending machine in the arrival levels of Terminals 2, 3 and 4. Buy a Myki card, add at least $5 credit, then catch a 901 bus from the transport interchange next to Terminal 4. Alight at Broadmeadows train station, where you can use the Myki to catch a train to the CBD – all for a $5 fare.

6. Drink the local coffee

Melbourne is rightly famous for the quality of its coffee and it could fairly be said that locals are fanatical about their favorite baristas and the best brews. This dates back to the 1950s when Italian migrants brought the espresso machine to the city after WWII. By the 1980s, espresso-style coffee had exploded into the mainstream and developed its own local character. As a result, coffee chains are less evident here than in other international cities. Instead, you’ll find plenty of top-notch third-wave coffee outlets if you want to indulge in coffee bean geekdom. (I recommend  Aunty Peg’s in Collingwood for this angle.) 

Step into a cool, hipster Melbourne cafe and order a “magic.” I won't spoil it for you, but I guarantee you'll be happy you’ve asked for this in-the-know, off-the-menu caffeinated creation. The coffee mania even extends to alcoholic beverages, with espresso martinis being a mainstay of the bar scene.

7. There's no need to tip, but do expect surcharges

In Melbourne, as in wider Australia, there is no firm tradition of tipping in restaurants, cafes, bars and similar establishments. Instead, Aussies tend to tip only when receiving unusually impressive service – so feel free to follow suit. 

You may notice small surcharges when paying by credit card, generally 1.5% of the total spend. Many eateries also apply surcharges of 10–15% on weekends and public holidays, to cover higher staff wages at those times.

8. Don't miss the artwork in Melbourne’s laneways

Melbourne’s jewel in the crown is its city center or CBD. Aside from office buildings, the CBD is home to a broad array of dining at all budgets, along with boutiques and entertainment venues. Many bars, cafes and shops are located down alleyways – known locally as laneways – giving them an intimate, secret vibe.

These laneways also display street art, from huge, commissioned murals to tiny unauthorized gems. Start at graffitied  Hosier Lane , then duck into almost any other laneway to find more. Local artist heroes whose work you may spot include Adnate , Kaff-eine , Meggs and Rone . To see the art from a creator’s perspective, join one of the walks staged by Melbourne Street Art Tours , which are led by local artists.

9. Melbourne is a city of villages

If there’s one thing that really stands out about Melbourne, it’s the fact that its various neighborhoods have an identity all their own. Laid out in the 19th century, these neighborhoods are highly walkable, each centered along a main strip. Think: Swan Street in Richmond, Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, or Smith Street in Collingwood. All have quirky, distinctive dining and shopping options, which could keep you occupied for hours – for example, Chapel Street’s retail zone stretches 4km (2.5 miles) from South Yarra to Windsor, with hundreds of stores along the way. 

One of my personal favorites is Lygon Street in Carlton. It still has aspects that reflect its Italian migrant roots, but there’s a relaxed cool in its current iteration. For me, a perfect sunny Saturday there involves coffee and cake at Italian icon Brunetti , followed by a movie at the indie Cinema Nova , then lunch at DOC Pizza . Afterwards, I enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the Carlton Yacht Club and stop for a casual browse at Readings bookstore on the way home.

10. The city's Indigenous name is Naarm

For tens of thousands of years before white settlers arrived in 1835, the area now known as Melbourne was occupied by the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung people of the Kulin nation. Their language supplies the Indigenous name for the city: Naarm. 

Learn about their history and living culture with visits to the  Koorie Heritage Trust and the Bunjilaka section of Melbourne Museum . There’s also a regular tour of the  Royal Botanic Gardens with a First Nations guide.

11. Melbourne’s indie theater scene is not to be missed

Melbourne is famous for its performing arts scene, with an impressive cultural precinct in the Southbank district and several 19th-century venues. While the biggest global productions usually make a stop in town, it’s also worth taking in an independent show, via venues such as  Red Stitch Actors Theatre ,  Fortyfivedownstairs or the legendary  La Mama Theatre . These indie operators are often where the star directors and actors of tomorrow cut their teeth. On their programs, you’ll find plays by local and international playwrights that perhaps haven't been given a run elsewhere in Australia, with some venues specializing in particular genres. For example, if you love cabaret, the place to head is the intimate backstreet Butterfly Club .

To score discounted tickets to theatrical productions big and small, check out Halftix . (Note that some shows aren’t listed on its website, but only available in person.) Ticketing app and website TodayTix also offers last-minute deals, especially when shows have empty seats to fill. 

12. Melburnians are sports fanatics

Melbourne is often referred to as Australia's sporting capital. The winter game of choice is Australian Rules football (also known as AFL), which was invented in Melbourne in the mid-19th century when the turbulent gold rush era threw together migrants with knowledge of different ball games. The result was a fast-moving, high-leaping, long-kicking game that’s followed like a religion in Melbourne, eclipsing other football codes such as rugby or soccer. 

If you’re visiting from March to September, you can take in a game at the vast Melbourne Cricket Ground . Supporters of both sides sit together. The atmosphere involves tens of thousands of fans typically suppressing their excitement as the play ripples up and down the ground, punctuated by the occasional lusty shout of “ball!” when spectators believe an opposition player has been holding the ball too long (a no-no in Aussie Rules).

Other key sporting events include the Australian Open tennis tournament in January, the motorsports Grand Prix in March, and the Melbourne Cup in November. The last of those, a 1,600m (5,250ft) horse race, is such a hallowed event that it has its own public holiday in Melbourne. In recent years, however, the deaths of several horses have cast a shadow over the race, leading many to reassess its appeal.

13. Melbourne is a safe city to visit

Melbourne is a very safe place for solo visitors, with a relatively low level of violent crime for its population of five million. As always in any big city, keep an eye on your belongings and be alert when walking in quiet or dimly lit places after dark. Note that the emergency number in Australia is 000.

When traveling by train, look for Safety Zones at suburban railway stations. With distinct yellow ground markings, these are well-lit areas near emergency assistance buttons and help phones, and monitored by CCTV cameras. There are also emergency assist buttons inside train carriages and aboard trams.

Visitors from around the world live in fear of Australia’s allegedly plentiful deadly wildlife. Take a deep breath and relax; you're incredibly unlikely to encounter any of these critters in a built-up urban area such as Melbourne.

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Melbourne Travel Guide

Sophisticated, stylish, free-spirited: Melbourne lucked out and has all of Australia's best personality traits. There's more risk-taking and art-making in Oz's second-biggest city, so the ideal trip samples some of the world-class art (be it street or studio), its famed coffee and cuisine (Attica's Ben Shewry can do no wrong), and a beach town that has a hint of Coney Island...

Plan Your Melbourne Trip

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Editor Hotel Recommendations

The Best Things to Do in Melbourne

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Melbourne Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 3, 2023

The city has a European feel to it and is popular with backpackers and young travelers looking to enjoy its laid-back vibe.

With plenty of culture, activities, art exhibitions, and live music, you could easily spend over a week here and not regret it. Heck, you might end up like so many other travelers and never leave! You definitely don’t want to rush your visit here. There’s a lot to see and do, and plenty of amazing places to eat at.

This travel guide to Melbourne will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Melbourne

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. Admire the 12 Apostles

One of the most iconic sights in the country, the 12 Apostles are a series of limestone rocks just off the Great Ocean Road along the coast of Australia (the route is an Australian National Heritage-listed section of highway with stunning coastal views). You’ll likely want to make this a multi-day visit as the Apostles are 275 kilometers outside the city and are best seen on a drive along the coast. However, if you’re pressed for time you can take a full-day tour along the Great Ocean Road for just 135 AUD.

2. See the Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens is one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful gardens. Created in 1848 (the land here was originally a swamp), this 26-hectare (64-acre) Victorian-era garden is meant to look like the English gardens the early settlers left behind. It’s a lovely place to stroll around and relax with a book, with plenty of tree-lined paths and areas to sit and relax with a book. If you visit on a Saturday, you can join a free guided walking tour at 10am starting from the visitor center.

3. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens spans over 34 hectares (86 acres) and features thousands of flowers, shrubs, and trees from across the country and around the world (there are over 50,000 plants here). Hanging out here and wandering around is one of my favorite activities in Melbourne. There is a cafe called The Terrace where you can grab a coffee while you stroll the gardens. There are free guided walks too. Admission is free.

4. Watch the sunset from the beach

Head to St. Kilda to watch the sunset. It’s a beautiful, wide beach, but the water is a little too cold for me. However, it faces due west, so you get some stellar sunsets before you head out for a night on the town. If you’re around the pier and get lucky, you may even spot a penguin (there’s a small colony of them here). Just remember not to feed to touch them!

5. Explore Queen Victoria Market

This outdoor market is a mix of food sellers and knick-knack vendors — think flea market meets food market. During the week, the food hall is the main draw, but the weekend offerings are bigger, as sellers fill up the outdoor vending space. Opened in 1878, it’s a heritage landmark that sees over 10 million people each year. When you’re in the food hall, be sure to get some free wine samples from Swords Wines.

Other Things to See and Do in Melbourne

1. enjoy the cafés.

The café culture in this city is part of its soul. Everyone here loves to have coffee or tea and a snack while doing some work or chatting in some arty café. Don’t miss doing this either. You can take the café tour with Café Culture Walk or Melbourne Coffee Lovers Walking Tour to learn more about why Melbournians love their cafés so much and then spend an afternoon with a good book at your new favorite spot.

2. Indulge in a wine tour

Wine tours are super popular in this region. The Mornington Peninsula in the outer suburbs of Melbourne is a world-famous wine-producing region. Located 45 minutes from the city, it’s home to over 50 wineries. There are a lot of day trips available to the Yarra Valley too (which is where most tours take you). If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like spending the night in the area, full-day wine tours from Melbourne start around 150 AUD per person.

3. Party in St. Kilda

Melbourne’s famous nightlife area is home to inexpensive restaurants, bars, and clubs — it’s the place to see and be seen. If you want to find Melbourne’s wild side, this is where it will be. Base Melbourne is one of my favorite places to go party if you want to hang out with other travelers — and a few locals! Their downstairs bar is popular and has cheap drinks.

4. Moonlight Cinema in the Park

During the summer, there are nightly movies (most of them are major Hollywood features) in the Royal Botanic Gardens. You can bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol) and have a cozy picnic while watching some great movies. Think of it like going to the drive-in but without the car. Just make sure to check the weather in advance and to bring a blanket to sit on as well as a sweater (it can get a little chilly sometimes). Tickets start at 19 AUD but you may be able to find a deal on Groupon to save a few dollars.

5. Flinders Street Station

Opened in 1854, Flinders Street Station is a major landmark and popular meeting place in central Melbourne. The station features Victorian architecture and large clock faces. It was the busiest railway station in the world in the 1920s and is said to currently be the busiest suburban railway station in the Southern Hemisphere.

6. Hang out in Federation Square

Right along the route of the free City Circle train and across the street from Flinders Street Station lies Federation Square. Opened in 1968, this open square spans around 3 hectares (8 acres) and serves up stellar people-watching. I like to have lunch here and just watch the city go by. Below the square on the river are also a number of restaurants and outdoor bars. In the summer, there are often all kinds of different events here as well.

7. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Located near Federation Square, the National Gallery of Australia is the largest, oldest, and most-visited art museum in the country (over 3 million people visit each year). It’s home to over 75,000 works including modern and contemporary art, sculptures, paintings, and works from indigenous artists. You can see pretty much everything in a couple of hours. It’s one of the best activities in the city. Admission is free though temporary exhibits may have an admission charge.

8. See the State Library of Victoria

The State Library of Victoria is a historic institution that sees 8 million visitors a year. Originally built in 1856, the library has grown into an event space that’s a source of pride for city residents. Come here before it opens and you’ll see a queue of people ready to pounce on the open desks. The famous central rotunda with its octagonal shape, original dark wood furniture, and book-lined walls is definitely something not to miss. There are a number of free events and tours of the library to teach you more about its history and striking architecture.

9. Wander the Como House and Gardens

Over 160 years old, this regal estate blends a mix of classic Italianate architecture and Australian regency. It’s considered the best of the historic houses in the city and offers a rare glimpse at the luxurious and opulent life of high society in 19th century Australia. Guided tours are available for 15 AUD if you want to learn more about this beautiful mansion and its history. Admission to the gardens is free.

10. Visit the Immigration Museum

Founded in 1998, The Immigration Museum is located in the Old Customs House and features exhibitions about Australia’s immigration history. Europeans started flocking to the country in 1788, bringing with them their own cultures that eventually swept the island and displaced the Aboriginal peoples who called the island home for over 50,000 years. Admission is 15 AUD.

11. See the Melbourne Museum

The Melbourne Museum showcases Australian social history, indigenous cultures, science, and the environment. The highlight of the museum, for me, was the extensive Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Center, which highlights the culture, art, and history of the Aboriginal peoples. They also have a children’s section that’s great for anyone traveling with kids. Admission is 15 AUD.

12. Plan a day trip to Phillip Island

Located a few hours from the city, Phillip Island is a weekend hot spot for locals looking to enjoy some beach time. The island is renowned for the nightly penguin parade (when thousands of penguins return from the sea to nest), its koala sanctuary, and the huge seal colony that lives offshore. The island can be visited as a day trip, but due to infrequent buses, I would recommend spending at least a night here.

13. Enjoy the festivals

Melbourne is a major festival city, with many events throughout the year: Comedy Festival, Aussie Rules football match, Spring Racing Carnival in November, the Melbourne Cup (part of a weeklong racing festival), and many more. Stop by the local tourism office (or ask your hotel/hostel staff) to see what’s going on during your visit!

14. Hang out at the markets

There are countless markets spread across Melbourne, from food truck markets to farmer’s markets, and from beach markets to flea markets. They’re fun places to hang out for a couple of hours, enjoying the local life and people-watching.

15. Take a street art tour

I love the tours run by graffiti artists from Blender Studios. It’s pricey at 75 AUD for a 2.5 to 3-hour tour, but the price helps support local artists and includes drinks. The tour takes you through the streets and alleyways of the Melbourne CBD or Fitzroy. You’ll learn about the art scene in the city and develop a deeper appreciation for why Melbourne attracts so many artists.

For more information on other cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Melbourne Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm room with 6-10 beds costs 25-48 AUD. Private rooms start at 70 AUD though most are closer to 105 AUD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most include free breakfast as well.

For those traveling with a tent, there are a few holiday parks outside the city with basic unpowered tent plots costing 20-60 AUD per night. For more rustic camping, there are a few free parks outside the city if you want to stay further afield (they aren’t close to the city but they are free).

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 90 AUD per night for a double room. Expect the standard amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and AC. Prices are higher in the downtown core.

Airbnb is also available around the city with private rooms starting at 30 AUD per night, though they average closer to 120 AUD. For entire homes and apartments, expect to pay at least 85 AUD (though prices are usually double that if not booked early).

Food – Food in Australia is diverse, with each region having its own specialities. You’ll be able to find all types of food in this city. It’s got one of the best food scenes in all of Australia!

You can easily find pizza parlors, noodle bars, and cafes where you can eat for 15-20 AUD. Melbourne is probably the best place to eat cheaply in Australia, especially if you like Asian food. The sushi and Chinese food is out of this world. However, expect to pay at least 20-25 AUD for most sit-down restaurants (without a drink).

There are many cool districts only a train or tram ride from town. Footscray (only 3 train stops away from Southern Cross) is on the water (perfect for walks/picnics) and the latest place to be for food (especially Vietnamese) and entertainment, as well as a market to get cheap food supplies.

Or take a tram up Sydney Road Brunswick and to Coburg for Middle Eastern food. Head to Grazeland in Spotswood for a night out eating & drinking with entertainment with many craft breweries for a great atmosphere and good beers. Fitzroy’s Brunswick St hosts a major strip of restaurants, bars, and pubs.

Grab and go places cost around 10 AUD for sandwiches while fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 12 AUD for a combo meal. Beer costs around 10 AUD (6 AUD during happy hour), a glass of wine is 10-15 AUD, a cocktail is 18-20 AUD, and a latte or cappuccino costs 5 AUD.

A week’s worth of food is 60-80 AUD for basic groceries like pasta, rice, produce, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Melbourne Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Melbourne for 70 AUD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in hostel dorms, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 205 AUD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like going to the Moonlight Cinema or the museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 430 AUD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, take a day tour into the countryside to do some wine tasting, rent a vehicle to get around, go out drinking, and do as many other tours and activities as you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Melbourne Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Melbourne can eat up your budget fast as restaurants, accommodation, and drinks are expensive. But there are plenty of ways to save money here! Here are some tips to help you save when you visit:

• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is an infamous staple on the Australian backpacker trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.
• Cook often – Eating out in Melbourne is not cheap. The best way to reduce your food cost is to cook as many meals as possible at your hostel. Book a hostel with a kitchen to save money.
• Book tours as a package – Australia has a lot of fun activities and exciting tours that will eat into any budget. If you plan on doing any tours while you’re here, booking activities together through a hostel or tour agency can get you a discount and save you tons of money.
• Work for your room – If you’re on a budget and looking to save some cash, many hostels offer travelers the opportunity to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed to sleep in. Commitments vary but most hostels ask that you stay for at least a week.
• Get cheap tickets – Check out Half Tix to get cheap deals on live shows and theatre.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Melbourne is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can find a fun Couchsurfing host for your visit. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice!
• Use the free City Circle tram – This free hop-on/hop-off tram has stops near most of the city’s biggest tourist attractions. Pick up a free map at a tourist info center, and get on your way!
• Take a free walking tour – I’m Free Walking Tours offers a handful of free walking tours to help you get oriented to Melbourne, and learn all about its sights and history!
• Fill up your water bottle – The tap water is clean and safe to drink in Melbourne. Saving a few bucks for each bottle of water will reduce your daily spending (and help the environment). LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Melbourne

There’s a lot of great budget accommodation in Melbourne. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Base St Kilda
• Selina St Kilda Melbourne
• The Nunnery

How to Get Around Melbourne

Public transportation – Melbourne’s bus system is safe and reliable and travels between all major hub (shopping centres, attractions, etc.). The fare is determined by how many zones you’ll be travelling in, starting at 3 AUD. A day-pass is 10 AUD. You need a myki card (or the mobile app) to get around.

The bus to and from the airport with Skybus costs 19.75 AUD one-way or 32 AUD return.

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD (Central Business District), stretching from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and Spring Street. The City Circle Tram is also free and stops at almost all of the city’s historic sites. You don’t need a myki if you’re using the free system.

Bike rentals – Biking is a great way to explore Melbourne as there are over 135 kilometers (84 miles) of bicycle trails here. You can rent a bike for 25 AUD per day.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive here, starting at 5 AUD per ride and going up almost 2 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – Uber is available here.

When to Go to Melbourne

Melbourne is a great spot year-round and there’s always so much to do. I prefer visiting March-May or September-October. These are the shoulder seasons and temperatures are much more comfortable during this time (with the highest being about 24°C/75°F). It’s also less touristy.

The summer months from December to February are the busiest in Melbourne, as it’s Australia’s summer and many tourists flock here to escape the cold. The temperatures during this time are usually in the high 20s°C (high 70s°F), but they’ve been known to climb a lot higher.

Winter in Melbourne (June-August) can be quite cold and dreary, especially in comparison to Sydney and Brisbane. But you’ll certainly get the best travel deals and hotel rates during these months, so it might be worth your time anyway — especially if you’re most interested in the cafe and foodie scene.

How to Stay Safe in Melbourne

Melbourne is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. People are quite friendly and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble.

As Melbourne is a big city, be on alert for pickpockets and keep your valuables secure at all times (as in any other big city), especially while around tourist landmarks or when taking crowded public transportation.

If you’re visiting Melbourne during the summer months, be prepared for high temperatures. Wear sunscreen, cover yourself, and drink plenty of water. Most incidents tend to occur because visitors are not used to the country’s unique climate.

If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

Solo female travelers generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that can help more!

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Melbourne Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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14 Fabulous Road trips from Melbourne

These road trips from Melbourne are perfect if you are looking for places to visit near Melbourne by car, whether you have a day or a week! We have arranged the recommended trips by distance from the city centre so you can choose one that suits the time you have available. Regardless of which you choose all offer you a chance to experience a different side of Victoria and its beautiful and varied landscape.

Yarra Valley

Macedon ranges, mornington peninsula, phillip island, great otway national park, wilsons promontory, mount buller, halls gap, the grampians, gippsland lakes, great alpine road.

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Road trips close to Melbourne City Centre

These first few are perfect if you are looking for short road trips from Melbourne . Whether for a day trip or an overnight stay that you can reach in just an hour or two these are all worthy choices day out of the city.

Distance from Melbourne – 55 km

A 2-day Yarra Valley road trip is a perfect weekend escape from Melbourne. You don’t have to be a wine lover to enjoy the Yarra Valley region, plus it’s very family-friendly!

Start with a stop at Lilydale Lakes for a stroll around the lake. Then, head to Badger Creek Blueberry Winery. They also have delicious pear ciders and you can sample both on a tasting paddle.

If you’re keen to sample more wineries, don’t miss Yering Station Winery, one of the oldest wineries in Victoria. They have an impressive tasting room and a restaurant overlooking the Dandenong Ranges.

Badgers Brook Winery is another great option that may be the most kid-friendly winery in Australia, with retro playground equipment galore!

Other recommended stops are the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery where you can pick up handmade chocolates or dine in the restaurant, and Yarra Valley Dairy for a cheese tasting.

If you want wildlife experiences, feed alpacas at The Big Bouquet Flower Farm and Alpaca Stud or visit Healesville Sanctuary to get up close with native Australian animals.

The Yarra Valley Lodge is the perfect base for your stay, overlooking a golf course with beautiful sunset views and kangaroos everywhere.

Contributed by Holly Connors from Four Around The World

Distance from Melbourne – 60 km

A wonderful road trip and getaway from Melbourne is a visit to the Macedon Ranges. It may only be about an hour away from Melbourne, but it’s a different world entirely.

The Macedon Ranges are a collection of high-elevation rocky mountains and forests, giving way to a cooler climate. This is a getaway surrounded by nature. 

Spend your mornings hiking through forests and up to beautiful vistas such as Mount Macedon itself, Camel’s Hump, or the famous ancient volcano, Hanging Rock, which is known for the story of the mysterious disappearance of schoolgirls in the early 1900s and documented in the film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock.’

Macedon Regional Parks is a true highlight, with many walking trails and even a waterfall in the Tony Clarke Recreation Reserve.

Spend your afternoon here visiting wineries in the area for tastings – some favourites are Hanging Rock Winery (with its amazing sculptures), Hesket Estate, Mount Macedon Winery, and Mount Towrong Vineyard.

Stay in Macedon itself or the nearby town of Woodend, which is equipped with more cafes and pubs and a golf course too.

For a true getaway, stay at the Macedon Ranges Hotel and Spa for a stylish retreat with treatments available, before returning to the city for the  best Melbourne brunches.

Contributed by Kimmie from Adventures and Sunsets

Distance from Melbourne – 75 km

A road trip to the Mornington Peninsula, just 90 minutes away from the city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, gastronomic delights, and unique experiences. An easy drive from Melbourne, this scenic route follows the coastline and presents breathtaking views of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and rolling hills.

We recommend you spend an hour or two strolling the Millionaires Walk , a favourite among the locals, this path allows you to take a glimpse into the backyards and gardens of the mansions that line the waterfront.

Foodies will find the Mornington Peninsula enjoy the thriving culinary scene. I highly recommend you add a couple of the region’s famous wineries, with wines crafted from the region’s cool-climate vineyards.

If you plan to book an overnight stay, I highly recommend the picturesque Jackalope Hotel. This luxury boutique hotel offers stylish and contemporary rooms, breathtaking vineyard views, and exceptional amenities.

To complete your Mornington Peninsula experience, visit the renowned Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove. Not only can you sample their outstanding wines, but you can also explore the picturesque grounds, indulge in a gourmet picnic, or wander through the sculpture park.

Other highly-recommended attractions include the Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can unwind in natural geothermal pools, and the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

A 2-day road trip to the Mornington Peninsula presents a blend of natural beauty and food and wine destinations. With its proximity to Melbourne, the region is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for a memorable and indulgent getaway.

Distance from Melbourne – 115 km

Melbourne to Daylesford is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, which makes it a great location to visit outside of Melbourne. 

There are many reasons to visit Daylesford, but most people spend time here relaxing and enjoying some downtime in many of the spa and wellness retreats in the area. Why? Because the spas here are full of rich mineral thermal waters that include indoor pools and saunas. 

Day 1 After checking into the historical Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs, spend your day visiting the many drinkable natural Springs during the day and then bathing in pure luxury in the afternoon at your hotel. Stop for a pre-dinner drink at the Argus Bar and Lounge before dinner in the Dining Room.

Day 2, take the morning slowly by enjoying a gorgeous breakfast at your hotel. Then, head over and enjoy the morning checking out the local products and produce at the Sunday markets; spend the afternoon indulging in a late lunch at one of the many little quaint cafes in the area. Before dinner, wander the many antique and vintage boutiques. 

Day 3, Today, explore the area by heading to Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and enjoying a ride on the heritage train at the Daylesford Spa Country Railway before returning to Melbourne. 

Suggested by Paula from Truly Expat Travel

Located a short drive from Melbourne, Ballarat is a charming city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty. What I love most about Ballarat is its rich gold rush heritage. Walking through the streets, you can still feel the echoes of the past and imagine the excitement that filled the air during the gold rush era.

One of my favorite things to do in Ballarat is to visit Sovereign Hill. It’s an open-air museum that beautifully recreates an 1850s gold mining town. While walking the recreated streets of old Ballarat and interacting with the staff who act as locals and work the shops and businesses.

Try your hand at panning for gold, or even take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a fun experience that truly brings history to life.

If you are travelling with kids, add a stop at Kryal Castle, a replicate of a medieval castle that offers visitors a unique experience of stepping back in time to the Middle Ages.

Take a castle tour, watch a Jousting Tournament or a falconry show or if you prefer to get involved then sign up for Knight school or try your hand at archery. Once you have had your fun, sit down to a medieval banquet.

Lastly, don’t miss a visit to the Art Gallery of Ballarat. It’s Australia’s oldest regional art gallery and houses a remarkable collection of Australian art. You’ll find everything from Indigenous artworks to contemporary masterpieces.

When it comes to where to sleep for a couple’s getaway I recommend Craig’s Royal Hotel. It’s a historic establishment that exudes elegance and charm. The rooms are beautifully appointed, and the service is impeccable. Staying there feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

Longer drives from Melbourne

The next group might be considered by many locals to be a long drive from Melbourne, but thanks to the compact size of Victoria it’s really not far at all

Distance from Melbourne – 140 km

It takes about two hours to get to Phillip Island from Central Melbourne and there is plenty to do once you’re there.

Right before heading over the bridge to Phillip Island, there is a daily pelican feeding at San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op. The feeding occurs at lunchtime and you can get an order of fish and chips before driving to Phillip Island.

Nobbie’s Lookout not only has beautiful views and a nice boardwalk, but you might even see penguins hanging out underneath the boardwalk during the day.

To guarantee a penguin sighting, attend the Penguin Parade that takes place at sunset . Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins in the world.

You might also like to take a scenic flight over the area or a sunset cruise if you prefer something a little less adventurous

Phillip Island is also home to a chocolate factory, Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate. Entry includes a behind-the-scenes tour, learning about the history of chocolate, interactive games, and chocolate samples.

While there are plenty of things to do on Phillip Island including spending time on the beach, nature walks, and  fun things to do with kids , if you are looking to explore more, Churchill Island is a small island off of Phillip Island with a 19th-century working farm.

NRMA Phillip Island Holiday Park has beachfront camping and pet-friendly cabins that sleep up to 6 guests.  

Contributed by Lanie from  Make More Adventures

Distance from Melbourne – 162 km

Great Otway National Park is a nature-filled road trip destination, just a few hours’ drive from Melbourne. This beautiful park is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, a stunning coastline and an abundance of  Australian wildlife,  too. So no matter what you’re looking for from a road trip, this national park has something to offer everyone. 

To fully explore the park, consider spending the night in the area. One of the best options is to stay in one of the many cosy cabins or lodges that are nestled in the heart of the forest.

Our personal favourites are the Sky Pods, located on private land shared with native wildlife that will hop past your window as you relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. All the accommodation here offers the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, with modern amenities, luxurious touches and a view overlooking the ocean. 

Make sure to visit the lush rainforests and spot some of the park’s native wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and a variety of bird species on a guided tour. Another popular activity is hiking the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, which takes you on a breathtaking journey through the forest canopy.

Contributed by Anna from Really Wildlife

Distance from Melbourne – 185 km

A road trip to Walhalla from Melbourne is a great way to explore a stunning and less visited part of Victoria! Plus –  Walhalla is Australia’s spookiest town  so this is an incredibly unique place and certainly a trip you’ll remember! In addition, the scenery along the way is absolutely stunning!

A historic gold mining town where time has stopped, Walhalla is incredibly charming if not somewhat mysterious. Nestled up in the Victoria Hills in Baw Baw National Park, it’s the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. It takes around 2.5 hours to drive to Walhalla from Melbourne, so it makes for a really convenient weekend trip.

Take your pick between goldmine tours, spooky ghost tours or strolling down the perfectly preserved Main Street, full of rich history and heritage. The Walhalla Goldfields Railway tour takes you on a scenic ride through the spectacular hills and valleys of Gippsland and is also worth doing! In addition, there are many lovely walks to do nearby.

If you fancy staying overnight the Walhalla Star Hotel makes a great choice.

On the drive back to Melbourne, you’ll drive through Moe, so you may want to stop off at the Old Gippstown Heritage Park. It’s certainly not as authentic as Walhalla, but it’s a great place to visit if you want to gain a deeper insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Contributed by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Distance from Melbourne – 223 km

Echuca, is a charming town on the Murray River in North East Victoria. Leaving Melbourne on the Northern Highway is a 2.5-hour drive to reach this gorgeous border town, We recommend checking into the local  Echuca Quest apartments which are centrally located near the shops, restaurants and Port of Echuca.

After checking in, begin exploring  Echuca  with a visit to the historic Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. We recommend booking a short trip on a paddle steamer for the next day to see how this mighty river was a life blood to the area.

Before dinner, take a stroll down High Street, the main street lined with boutique shops and galleries so you can admire the amazing heritage buildings.

Have dinner at one of the local eateries like The Mill or pop over the border to the Moama Bowling Club before calling it a night.

On the second day, head to the Sweet Meadow for breakfast, then explore the Port area further. Jump on the paddle steamer cruise that you booked the day before where you will go a few kilometres upriver, take in the scenery and learn about the area’s rich history around Echuca.

The area is known for its Silo art and the Echuca Moama Silo art trails provide a perfect way to spend the afternoon. The towns of Colbinabbin, Rochester and Picola are stunning and well worth the drive. If you love animals, then a stop at the Kyabram Fauna Park is a must.

In the evening, take a short walk from your accommodation at Quest and dine at the Curry Club. This Indian Restaurant serves some of the best curry dishes you will find anywhere.

Before returning to Melbourne on the third day, make sure to visit any missed attractions or explore nearby highlights like the National Holden Museum, which has over 40 classic Holdens on display

If cars are not your thing, the Great Aussie Beer Shed might be a better choice. Home to all things Australiana, including collections of beer cans, old Aussie household items, farm machinery, and cars. It really is a wide collection of something for everyone in the ultimate man cave. Enjoy your memorable trip to the Echuca area.

Suggested by Bec from Explore Victoria

Distance from Melbourne – 220 km

A road trip to Wilsons Promontory is definitely one of the best road trip from Melbourne if you’re looking for wildlife, beaches, sand dunes and mountains. You’ll get a bit of everything on this amazing road trip. 

The Big Drift, Squeaky Beach, Mount Oberon Summit and the Prom Wildlife Walk are the  best things to do in Wilsons Promontory . 

Big Drift is a sand dune hidden in a forest. Walking through the forest you would never guess you’re so close to a massive dune. But then the ground slowly starts to change from soil to sand and soon after you’re rewarded with an amazing sand dune overlooking the surrounding forest. 

Squeaky Beach is, as the name suggests, a beach that squeaks. You can stomp on the sand and actually make it squeak! The beach isn’t just squeaky though, it’s also really beautiful. It’s a great place for a swim or a picnic. 

Check out this cruise to Skull Rock for something completely different

Mount Oberon Summit is a scenic hike. From the top, you have the best view of the Wilsons Promontory National Park. 

The best place to spend the night on this road trip is the Tidal River Campground. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your stay, as you might be able to see a wallaby hop around or a wombat sniffing your tent in the evening. If you didn’t see enough wildlife during your stay, you can also try your luck at the Prom Wildlife Walk, a short nature walk in an area highly populated by Australian wildlife. This tour is a great option if you don’t want to hike alone .

Suggested by Tina from Veganderlust

Distance 235km from Melbourne

One of the most picturesque road trips to take from Melbourne is to Mount Buller. Being the closest snow resort to Melbourne, Mount Buller makes a perfect weekend getaway. Part of Australian Alpine National Park, the resort is around 3 hour’s drive from the city centre via Mansfield town.

Note: two things to note; all cars staying overnight at the resort must have snow chains and the last petrol station is at Mirimbah town.

Even though Mount Buller is perfect to visit all around the year, the ski season is between the months of June and August.

There are a few routes to get to Mount Buller from Melbourne. My preferred one is through the roads of Yarra Valley and Healesville regions. This allows you to indulge in some of the most amazing wines in the country, or perhaps buy a few bottles for your visit.  

As Mount Buller is a ski resort, we recommend you stay within the resort itself. They have a variety of options, ranging from budget to luxury. We loved this 2 bedroom apartment . It has amazing views and can sleep up to six people.

Skiing and snowboarding are top choices for daytime fun here. If you are not into adventure sports the resort also offers plenty of less strenuous activities such as history hunt tours, sculpture park walks, and indoor sports and air zone areas.

From Raksha Nagaraj at Solo Passport

Distance from Melbourne – 260km

It only takes three hours to get from Melbourne to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and the township of Halls Gap which is a great base for exploring the Grampians best spots.

The most direct route is through Ballarat where you could stop for a day to visit Sovereign Hill, the gold mining pioneer village.

On your first day, you can hit the walking tracks and check out some waterfalls and lookouts. See water tumbling over Mackenzie Falls, amazing views from Reed Lookout and incredible rock formations at the Pinnacle. Exploring the rock pools at Venus Baths is great fun too.

Take it a bit easier the next day. Start with brunch at one of the Stoney Creek cafes or bakery then try your luck at Halls Gap mini golf – one of the toughest mini golf courses in Australia.

In the afternoon, meet the animals at the fantastic Halls Gap Zoo or take lunch to the picturesque Zumsteins. Picnic where you can spot emus and wallabies on the walk to pretty Fish Falls.

Breeze Holiday Park i n Halls Gap is a great place to stay, it is so centrally located and has excellent facilities. There is no bad time to go to the Grampians. In winter the falls have lots of water, go in spring for wildflowers, autumn for great hiking weather (there are plenty of family-friendly walks) and summer to kayak on Lake Bellfield.

Contributed by Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

Distance from Melbourne- 277km

The Gippsland Lakes are one of the most popular summer tourist destinations in Victoria. Located 3 hours east of Melbourne on the Princes Highway, it is one of the biggest lake systems in Australia. Home to numerous types of native flora and fauna, you will love your time on the Lakes.

Most people base themselves in the town of Lakes Entrance, which is considered the capital of the lakes system. It is the largest town, featuring hotels, caravan parks, and apartments for all budgets.

Lakes Entrance is a good base for a road trip, and we suggest booking into the Esplanade Resort and Spa for a few nights. You can have fun on the 90-Mile Beach or in the calmer waters of Cunningham Arm.

We always say when you’re by the sea eat seafood and the Boathouse floating restaurant has great views and even better seafood. The local fishing fleet brings in fresh fish daily. If you have a sweet tooth, head to the local Riviera Ice Creamery. Homemade ice cream made from fresh farm milk awaits you in a variety of inviting flavours, or pop into Big Bears Donuts.

Smaller towns such as Paynesville and Metung are worth visiting on the second day. Both these towns are within easy reach of Lakes in under 30 kilometres. In Paynesville, you can visit the nearby Raymond Island Koala Walk where you will see koalas in the wild. Jump on the free ferry that takes you over the island and enjoy a peaceful walk spotting koalas.

Metung is known for its small village feel and popular pub on the waterfront. In the warmer months, there is no better place to sit down and relax than at the table on the waterfront. Grab a meal, then head to the newly opened Metung Hot Springs to bathe in the waters or have a spa treatment.

The Metung Hot Spring was created by the team behind the famou s Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs.

On your last day, head over to the 90-mile beach and do the Entrance walk along the beach that takes you to the point where the ocean meets the lakes. You may see the local Burrunan Dolphins playing in the waters.

Head to Wyanga Park Winery for lunch and grab a few bottles of local wine before heading back to the attractions in Melbourne .

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Distance from Melbourne – 290 km

One of the best three-day road trips from Melbourne is driving along the Great Alpine Road . This scenic journey offers a diverse range of attractions, from world-class vineyards to breathtaking viewpoints.

Day 1: On your first day, make your way out to the city of Wangaratta, which marks the starting point of the Great Alpine Road. From here on out, your days are going to be about local produce, historic architecture, and hiking in nature. 

From Wangaratta, journey through the charming gourmet region of Milawa, where you can jump on tastings of locally-produced delights, like cheeses, olives, mustards, and wine.

You’ll venture next to some of the state’s most impressive gold rush-era towns. Beechworth and Yackandandah are the two that are most worth spending time in, with their well-preserved buildings dating back to the mid-1800s.

End your day in the peaceful town of Myrtleford, which makes for an ideal overnight base.

Day 2: After breakfast at Cafe Fez, spend your morning tackling the best walks in Mount Buffalo National Park. Here, you can hike to impressive waterfalls, marvel at dramatic rock formations, and even climb to the summit of Mount Buffalo. The best short walks in the park include the Eurobin Falls Track and the Gorge Heritage Walk. 

Stop in the bustling town of Bright for lunch, opting for the excellent pizzas in the sunny beer garden at Bright Brewery. 

In the afternoon, cruise over the highest part of the Great Alpine Road, at an elevation of 1,800 metres. There are so many viewpoints here, but if you only stop at one, make it Danny’s Lookout. It offers the best views of the Victorian Alps. 

Spend the night in Omeo, another historic gold mining town that’s home to one of the best pubs in the area: the Golden Age Hotel.

Day 3: The main attraction on day three is the Buchan Caves Reserve, a collection of impressive limestone caves that are said to be some of the best in Australia. Aim to spend two hours exploring the Royal Cave and Fairy Cave. 

Bairnsdale will be your final stop on the Great Alpine Road, and what a wonderful place to finish. Spend an hour strolling alongside the waterfront, devour some fresh fish and chips, and then make your return to Melbourne. Contributed by Lauren from Everything Victoria

Where will you go next?

We hope you have found some road trip inspiration from these suggestions of place to visit near Melbourne by car. If you are exploring South Australia, check out 5 fantastic road trips we did last year.

If it’s your first time driving in Australia, read these driving tips for Australian roads put together by Charles who has spent the last 12 years working as a professional driver.

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Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Getting around Melbourne

Whether you self-drive or take advantage of Melbourne’s efficient public transport system, you’ll find it easy and efficient to get around the city.

By Mark Sariban

Australia’s cities all offer clean, efficient and affordable public transport options, allowing visitors to explore with ease and comfort. Known for its historic suburban tram system, Melbourne is no exception to this rule. Jump on board any of these great transport options and discover how easy it is to get around Melbourne.

Transport in Melbourne

St Paul's Cathedral, Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

• Airport Transfers
• Accessibility

Melbourne offers free tram rides within the city centre. To use public transport outside of the free tram zone, you need to purchase a myki card . You can purchase a myki card from retail outlets displaying the myki sign, visitor centres and at train stations.

• Use your myki card on trains, trams and buses. You’ll need to load your card with some money to cover your fares. You can top it up at convenience stores and train stations as your balance runs low. 
• You can also purchase a  myki Explorer kit, which includes a myki card loaded with a full day of unlimited travel on trains, trams and buses in metropolitan Melbourne, handy maps and discounts on tickets to major attractions.
• To start your ride, tap your myki card on the reader when you board your selected mode of transport and be sure to tap off when you disembark.

Melbourne is serviced by two airports, Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Avalon Airport (AVV). There are several public transport options available for reaching the city from either airport.

• SkyBus express services run between 4am and 1am daily from Melbourne Airport and from early morning to evening from Avalon Airport. Both SkyBus services stop at Southern Cross Station on Spencer Street in the city. Tickets can be purchased either online or at the airport.
• You’ll find taxi ranks and rideshare pick-up areas at the front of each terminal – simply follow the signage. The journey to the city from Melbourne Airport takes around 30 minutes, or 50 minutes from Avalon Airport.

Tip:  If you’re in a group, it will be less expensive to travel from Melbourne Airport to the city by taxi or rideshare.

In Australia, airlines, trains, buses and ferries have accessible options for people using a wheelchair or mobility device.

• Melbourne Airport provides special assistance for people with disabilities and can help with baggage, getting around the airport, and getting on and off the plane. 
• The majority of buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria Accessibility page for information on using public transport before your trip.

Tip: Download the City of Melbourne’s  mobility map  to easily locate accessible toilets and car parks in the city.

Getting around Melbourne on public transport

Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Trains are a great way to visit attractions across the city and reach the surrounding suburb. Major stations in the city include Central, Flinders and Southern Cross Station. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• Trains to regional destinations including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Albury operate on the V/Line services. You can use your myki card on all train networks.

Catching a tram is a great way to get around Melbourne while getting a feel for the city. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• A Free Tram Zone operates in Melbourne city centre. If your travel is within this zone you don’t need to tap on or off with your myki card.
• The free hop-on, hop-off City Circle Tram (number 35) is a great introduction to Melbourne, with city loop services running every 15 minutes. 
• Melbourne’s suburban tram routes run in two zones, with the cost using your myki card calculated according to the zones you travel in.

The bus network is another efficient way of hopping around metro Melbourne and popular neighbourhoods. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

• Night Network trains, trams and buses operate throughout the night on Fridays and Saturdays.

Getting around Melbourne by car

Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

Driving in Melbourne is easy and safe, but you may want to check whether your hotel charges a daily parking fee.

Melbourne is the only city in Australia with a ‘ hook turn ’ (a right-hand turn you make from the left-hand lane), so be sure to familiarise yourself with this manoeuvre if you’re planning to drive in the city.

Having a car for part of your trip may be beneficial if you plan to visit some of the stunning destinations outside of Melbourne, but you can also book tours to many of these places and leave the driving to someone else.

Tip: If you’re hiring an electric vehicle, you’ll find a map of charging stations here.

Melbourne is served by numerous taxi companies. 

• You can hail a taxi on the street (a taxi is available if its rooftop light is on) or at taxi ranks in built-up areas.
• You can also book a taxi by phoning individual companies, or by downloading an app from 13cabs or GoCatch .

Tip: You will be asked to pre-pay an estimated fare when riding in a taxi after 10pm.

Most major ridesharing platforms operate in Melbourne, including Uber , Ola and DiDi , as well as local operator GoCatch .

Tip: Female travellers can also book a ride with Shebah , a rideshare service with all-women drivers catering to women. (Adult men can use the service if they need to transport a child who requires an approved child safety seat.)

Make the most of your time in Melbourne with a guided tour . Many tour operators offer half-day and full-day driving tours of the city and surrounds, including Show Me Melbourne and Melbourne Private Tours . 

• Enjoy an emissions-free sightseeing tour of Melbourne by pedicab with Green Cabs .

Where to stay in Melbourne

Other forms of transport in Melbourne

Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

• Water taxis
• Cycling & scooting
• Williamstown Ferries offers two-hour cruises from Southbank to Williamstown, a seaport at the mouth of the Yarra River.

If you’re in town for a sporting event or a stadium concert, you can catch a water taxi from Southbank to Melbourne’s sports precinct .

Melbourne is mostly flat and has an extensive network of bike paths, making it easy to cycle around the city.

• Download an app from Neuron to access a pool of shared e-scooters across Melbourne.

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Find cheap flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney from $51

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from melbourne to sydney departing on 5/10. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to sydney.

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Cheap flight deals from Melbourne to Sydney (MEL-SYD)

Flights from melbourne to sydney - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from melbourne to sydney to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney, when flying from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney, you should consider leaving on a tuesday and avoid saturdays if you are looking for the best rates. for your return to melbourne airport (tullamarine), you’ll find the best rates on mondays and the most expensive ones on fridays., what is the cheapest month to fly from melbourne airport to sydney, the cheapest month for flights from melbourne airport to sydney is august, where tickets cost $110 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are december and november, where the average cost of tickets is $222 and $177 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from melbourne airport to sydney, to get a below average price on the flight from melbourne airport to sydney, you should book around 4 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 86 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney, in the last 72 hours, the best return deals on flights connecting melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney were found on jetstar ($105) and virgin australia ($123). jetstar proposed the cheapest one-way flight at $51., which airlines fly most frequently between melbourne airport (tullamarine) and sydney, qantas airways connects melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney up to 59 flights per day, followed by virgin australia (26 flights per day), and jetstar (17 flights per day)., which airlines fly non-stop between melbourne airport and sydney, there are 4 airlines that fly nonstop from melbourne airport to sydney. they are: jetstar, qantas airways, rex and virgin australia. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with jetstar at $78 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at jetstar., how many flights are there between melbourne airport and sydney per day, each day, there are between 71 and 127 nonstop flights that take off from melbourne airport and land in sydney, with an average flight time of 1h 25m. the most common departure time is 8:00 am and most flights take off in the morning. each week, there are 770 flights. the most frequent day of departure is friday, when 16% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a saturday., which cabin class options are there for flights between melbourne airport and sydney, there are 3 cabin class options for the route. these are business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney take, direct flights cover the 438 miles separating melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney in about 1h 25m., what’s the earliest departure time from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney, early birds can take the earliest flight from melbourne airport at 5:30 am and will be landing in sydney at 6:55 am., what’s the latest departure time from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from melbourne airport to sydney jets off at 9:00 pm and lands at 10:25 pm., good to know, when to book flights from melbourne to sydney, faqs for booking melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney flights, which terminal do i need to go to for my flight from melbourne to sydney.

Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport has four terminals. Terminal 1 services Qantas domestic flights, so if you’re flying with Qantas, T1 will be your terminal. T3 services Virgin domestic flights, and T4 services TigerAir, Jetstar, Rex and AirNorth. It’s worth double-checking your itinerary to be sure you head to the correct terminal. However, all are within the same building and within walking distance of each other.

Where is the drop-off area for my flight from Melbourne to Sydney?

This will depend on which terminal you’re departing from. Flights from Melbourne to Sydney with Qantas depart from T1, while flights with Virgin Australia depart from T2. For both of these airlines, you can use the drop-off zone on Level 2 of the forecourt for terminals 1, 2 and 3. If you’re flying with Jetstar, TigerAir or another low-cost carrier, it’s best to get dropped off on Level 1, as this provides the easiest access to Terminal 4. Both drop-off zones can be accessed by following the appropriate signs on Departure Drive.

What is the cheapest flight from Melbourne Airport to Sydney?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Melbourne Airport to Sydney was $51 for a one-way ticket and $105 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Sydney?

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from melbourne airport (tullamarine) to sydney.

The Airbus A320-100/200 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam are the airline alliances operating flights between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Sydney, with oneworld being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

There are nonstop flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from Melbourne to Sydney, Rex or Virgin Australia?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Melbourne to Sydney are Rex and Virgin Australia. With an average price for the route of $185 and an overall rating of 9.0, Rex is the most popular choice. Virgin Australia is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $181 and an overall rating of 7.7.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Sydney from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Sydney with an airline and back to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) with another airline. Booking your flights between Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and SYD can sometimes prove cheaper using this method.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Sydney from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from MEL to Sydney

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $94 or less one-way and $208 or less round-trip.
• The SkyBus offers reliable bus service to Melbourne Airport (MEL) from Southern Cross Station in the city centre. A one-way ticket costs around A$ 15 for an adult if booked online, and the journey takes roughly 22min.
• Qantas, Virgin Australia and Rex all have lounges located at Melbourne Airport. The Qantas Club Lounge is located in T1, two Virgin Australia Lounges are in T2, and the Rex Lounge can be found at Gate 30 in T4.
• If you have a pet staying in Melbourne during your trip to Sydney, you can leave it in the capable hands of Hanrob Pet Hotel. Located within the Tullamarine Airport precinct, this hotel provides gourmet meals and even arranges video calls so you can check in on your pet while you’re away.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney?

Find which airlines fly direct from Melbourne to Kingsford Smith, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Melbourne to Sydney Kingsford Smith

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +21 more

ANA, Air Canada, +22 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +20 more

ANA, Air Canada, +21 more

Nonstop returns

Sydney Kingsford Smith to Melbourne

Top 5 airlines serving from melbourne to sydney.

Enjoyed the comfort of the seats, slight delay to departure time but prompt takeoff and landing.

It asks about entertainment tho it’s not applicable. 10/10 for Rex 👌🏻

Not sure how to answer on the entertainment as there wasn’t any.. Comfort, I wasn’t comfortable as I was on the window side and a morbidly obese man sat in the middle and eased out into my space. I had sciatica so I wasn’t able to move much to get comfortable. Food wise I have a wheat allergy and asked if there was a gluten free option and was given a Byron bay cookie which was lovely tho it wasn’t wheat free. Not to worry. I wasn’t expecting there to be any appropriate snacks for me anyhow. The staff were very generous with the snacks and their concern for the passengers. The staff were amazing tho. Truly amazing ! One of the staff must have noticed my discomfort and helped me out to stand in the back of the plane to stretch which I really appreciated. I would fly with REX again without hesitation. Thank you very much. It was my first flight with you and I look forward to my return flight home on Tuesday. Best wishes to your company 👌🏻

All good, was a one hour flight so no food or entertainment which was expected

Rex is an underrated airline. Its my first time flying them and they were fantastic. the only things that annoyed me about my flight were things other passengers did so it was nothing i or REX could change

Really enjoyed flying with Rex the boarding and booking baggage on was easier than most. I will beat using Rex next time.

On time and a quick flight and staff vert good

Excellent meal served with real utensils, cardboard served hot meals instead of plastic utensils and plastic covers. Quick service, friendly and accommodating stewards.

I commend the flight attendants on our SFO-SIN flight who went above and beyond to provide us with extra snacks and food. This type of service makes the flight experience personal and awesome.

It was a great flight Food was great Crew was spectacular

In general good, but the machine seems to be long in operation and some functions were restricted as e. g. Adjusting of seats.

Seating cramped; close to toilet, foul smelling and noisy, very unhygienic and disease risk Free and paid Wi-Fi NOT accessible at all - misleading advertising Very expensive sunglasses disappeared from back seat pouch. Coffee disgusting and cold

When boarding, after business class should be premium economy, but economy class already lined-up at the gate blocking premium economy to board. Singapore airline crew should done a better job to organize this chaos :( Thank you.

It seems paying premium economy does not make difference with economy. No priority boarding, not worthy paying extra$$$ for premium economy.

The premium economy seats were not that great. It could have been more premium than economy seats.

They are great with every aspect of customer service. Helped my elderly father and aided him with using the restroom.

Transfer within the same terminal and lots of facilities at the airport.

This time is good . Don’t cancel flight with out early notice .

Very good experience, considering the short flight the meals were served promptly after takeoff.

X class seats in row 3 with the new configuration are very poor in fact I feel 3B and 3E should no longer be considered as X class seat as there is no forward seat pocket available to these seats and greatly reduced leg room due the intrusion of the business class armrests/table module

It was pretty good. Everyone friendly. Like all airlines, the draconian limitations on baggage and weight and not giving even a free soda kind of drags down the experience a bit.

Last 10 minutes boarding they canceled the flight and didn’t organise anything

Estheticly the plane looks great, although the seats are way too upright. If the seats were just slightly more reclined then the comfort level would increase tenfold. I had the stiffest neck after just a short flight due to this. A nap was almost out of the question.

Cabin crew were very professional and welcoming. They certainly appeared to have lifted their game. Congratulations

I know not directly a Virgin "thing" but I hold Virgin responsible for their subcontractors. Had to wait 45 minutes waiting for baggage at PER before the belt conveyor even started. This is unacceptable and hopefully Virgin engages with whoever to pull their fingers out. I realise PER staff are generally slow at the best of times but this was ridiculous. Maybe more seating for those waiting, a cafe in the baggage area for a light meal while we wait or at the very least a troop of dancing girls to entertain the punters while they stare at the conveyor belt start light almost willing it to fire up.

Very poor. Flight was cancelled due to captain exceeding hours. Told to fend for ourselves for 12 hours until a new flight could be done. This meant overnight accommodation in Hobart. Next plane was delayed and no food onboard. No apologies from Virgin. Extremely disappointing.

Flight was cancelled due to a mechanical fault - Virgin rebooked me on a flight 6 hours later so I cancelled and flew with another carrier

Business lounge in Melbourne mediocre. Look at Emirates or Qatar, Qantas! Great friendly crew. Food was good but Emirates is a level above. Business seat good. But can’t compare to Qatar. Main reason for booking Qantas is loyalty and terrific connection via Perth to LHR.

I was pleasantly surprised with my flight to LA with Qantas. Although seats were not the roomies, service was excellent.

The crew were amazing - A great job. They made me feel special and valued.

The flight met my expectations. It left and landed on time

My bag didn’t make it but otherwise it was a great experience.

Experience was great. My only advice is to have a pasta dish on the menu. Otherwise everything was excellent.

Flights delayed multiple times, travellers requests for updates ignored. Qantas continues to desatisfy travelling basics.

I find the food in business class is just old and boring, it was once good but now just trying to hard to be "on Trend" with plant based for the minority of people, while those people can order a special meal anyway, while the majority have to suffer and loose a choice. only 2 choices for entree one boring plant based and 4 for main which two were seafood, one was plant based and one meat dish.

Packed flight. Urged to check carry-on before boarding only to discover numerous empty overhead bins after boarding. Challenging entertainment screen. After almost 20 minutes to arrive at baggage claim, waited over 30 mins before luggage was loaded on baggage claim carousel.

First flight on Quantas. High marks all around. Plus it appears as if the have a comparatively new flight. Excellent airline!

Note that food has to be purchased in flight. No free food. And no entertainment in flight. So I’ve treated these two items as okay which, in this case, means neutral/not applicable.

My Dad needed assistance to board the plane. The Jetstar staff were excellent with him and made the experience a lot easier😁

No food taken so can't rate also no entertainment so can't rate.

Would be better if can provide small free snacks on a long flight

Boarding was easy and unstressful, though the early "final call" was a bit off-putting. The crew were pleasant, and the seats were comfortable. The prices for food and drink were reasonable, apart from tea and coffee, where simple percolated coffee was charged at espresso prices. Deboarding was OK, though some Jetstar passengers appear to have a bad habit of pushing forward from their assigned rows, making it more difficult to get out for passengers that have paid a premium to sit up-front. Jetstar might want to look to address this to stop it from spreading.

I was allocated an exit row seat and was told to move so it could be given away to someone who had purchased two extra legroom seats and one regular seat but wanted the three to sit together. I was also charged for entertainment after booking but before checking in, and the ground crew couldn't do anything about refunding it. When the whole plane was given access to the entertainment as an apology for the flight being four hours late, I was told they couldn't do anything about that either, so I was charged for something I didn't want even though it would have been free anyway

I got to the airport earlier than I expected, and they let me change to an earlier flight with no trouble.

The price difference/saving isn't sufficient to compensate the experience difference, don't recommend unless flight is under 3 hours. Huge queues for check in and the priority lane of other ailines blocked checked in Jetstar passengers from proceeding through to screening. Gate change to a "dungeon gate" that didn't have toilets in the vicinity. 45minute delay in boarding, no updates or explaination, let alone apology for any inconvenience. 1 scanner working for a full fight to board, no coordination. Loaded on to crowded buses to get on the plane in the middle of the tarmac, up stairs with no explaination. 4 bus trips. No system for boarding in sections. Over an hour late departing. Nothing complimentary, not even water or in-flight music. Pay wave not available and no cash sales. Staff onboard were friendly and professional.

It was a super crowded time to travel out of Melbourne, but the flight was OK

Worst flying experience of my life. FIVE HOURS delayed! Rude and unhelpful staff and poor communication from the grounds team. Never flying Jetstar again

Book cheap flights from Melbourne to Sydney

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Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) (MEL) Australia

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Compare transportation modes for Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Sydney

How to Travel From Sydney to Melbourne by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Sydney and Melbourne are the largest and second-largest cities in all of Australia, respectively, and both are hugely popular places to visit for locals and foreigners alike. If you're looking at a map of Australia, Sydney and Melbourne look like neighboring cities tucked away on the island's southeast corner, but there's actually 450 miles separating them. Since there are no direct highways that beeline between them, the driving distance is actually much more.

Because of the great distance, flying is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Sydney to Melbourne. Thankfully, it's also the cheapest. However, Australia offers some of the most unique and breathtaking scenery in the world, and you miss out on all of it from 35,000 feet in the air. If you have the time to spare, taking the train or driving yourself are worthwhile options to experience the landscape. Buses are also available, but they're the slowest method and oftentimes the most expensive.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Sydney to Melbourne?

With all of the flight options to choose from, going by plane is by far the most affordable way to get from Sydney to Melbourne. You can choose from multiple airlines and dozens of daily flights to travel on this popular route, from low-cost airlines like Jetstar and Tigerair to full-service companies such as Virgin and Qantas. Tickets start as low as $27 for a one-way flight, which is much less than you would spend on a train or bus ticket. Flights do jump up in price significantly during the high season and local school holidays—such as Australian summer break from December to January—so plan ahead if you're visiting during these times.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Sydney to Melbourne?

In this instance, the cheapest method of transport is also the fastest. The hour and a half flight cuts out an entire day of travel you would spend seated on a train, bus, or car, making it the transit of choice for a majority of travelers. And because the Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL) airports are both well-connected to their respective city centers, travel to and from the airport is quick and effortless. However, some flights to Melbourne fly into Avalon Airport (AVV), which is an hour outside of the city. Pay attention to your flight details when booking your reservation to be sure you are using the right airports.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

The fastest driving route from Sydney to Melbourne is along the Hume Highway, nearly 600 miles of road that cuts through the states of Victoria and New South Wales. It takes about nine hours to complete the drive, although it can be a little longer depending on traffic while leaving Sydney or entering Melbourne. You'll pass through some small towns along the way, but there are no big cities to stop in and the route isn't particularly scenic.

Once you're in Melbourne, parking is hard to find and expensive, as with most major cities. Finding a garage that allows overnight parking is the most stress-free way to leave your car in the city, but you'll pay for the convenience. If you're driving into Melbourne and want to save money, look for parking garages outside of the city center but located near a Melbourne metro stop . Rates will be significantly cheaper and you can just ride into the city from there.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

Taking the train from Sydney to Melbourne—and around Australia in general—is slow and relatively pricey. However, the experience of train travel is well worth the extra time and cost for many travelers, and booking the overnight journey helps to balance out the expense by saving a night of accommodation. Tickets during the low season start at roughly $60 for a one-way trip, while high-season tickets are about $85 (remember the prices you see on the NSW Transport website are in Australian dollars, not U.S. dollars).

Two trains leave each day from Sydney Central Station toward Melbourne Southern Cross Station, one in the morning and one in the evening. Both stations are centrally located and easily accessible to the rest of the city by public transportation. The daytime train is the only way to catch views of the Australian landscape, but the route isn't particularly scenic and spending the night on the train may be a better use of limited vacation time.

Is There a Bus That Goes From Sydney to Melbourne?

Long-distance buses in Australia are comparable in price and time to the train, with the journey taking about 12 hours and tickets starting at roughly $65. The most popular bus companies are Greyhound Australia and Firefly, so compare schedules and prices between the two before finalizing your purchase. And don't forget to look into flights, which are normally much cheaper and will save you several hours of travel time.

Tip: Bus companies will occasionally host special sales, especially on overnight buses during the low season, so check prices frequently to see if you can snag a deal.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Melbourne?

Prices for all types of transport rise significantly during the tourist high season and quarterly breaks for Australian students. The exact dates of school vacations vary from year to year, but they generally last one week in mid-April, two weeks in mid-July, one week at the end of September, and the long summer vacation throughout most of December and January. If your travel plans coincide with any of these dates, book all of your reservations as far in advance as possible.

For the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons of spring (from September to November) or fall (from March to May). Melbourne's winter lasts from June to August, and while it may be too cold to hit up the beach, temperatures are usually warm enough to enjoy being outside with some additional light layers.

What's the Most Scenic Route to Melbourne?

Travelers with a vehicle have a second driving option to get from Sydney to Melbourne. The A1 Highway, also known as the Princess Highway, winds along the coast and drives directly through several national parks. It's a significant detour since it's not only an additional 100 miles compared to the more direct Hume Highway, but the roads are curvier and the speed limit is lower. In total, expect to be on the road for about 12 hours as opposed to nine hours on the faster route. But in exchange for the additional time, the views and landscape are incomparable. If you have the time, the drive is best split up over a couple of days so you can make pitstops in beach towns or campsites to spend the night.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

From Melbourne Airport, the Melbourne City Express Bus shuttles passengers directly from the terminal to the Southern Cross train station in the city center in just 22 minutes. The cost of the bus is about $13 for an adult passenger, but children ride free with a paying adult and there are also discounts for buying a roundtrip ticket. You can buy tickets using cash or credit card at the kiosks in the airport terminal before boarding the bus. Buses run seven days a week and depart every 15 minutes, making it one of the most convenient ways to get into Melbourne.

What Is There to Do in Melbourne?

Melbourne is one of Australia's hippest cities, known for its cool coffee culture , award-winning wines, funky street art , and trendy eateries . The Queen Victoria Market, or "Vic Market" as the locals call it, is one of the best places to get acquainted with local goods and should be one of your first stops. Explore the endless stalls of food, drinks, and souvenirs, and consider booking a food tour to hit up the most iconic spots. If you're visiting during the warmer months, you can't miss out on the nearby beaches , such as Brighton Beach and St Kilda. Australian fauna is one of the biggest draws for visiting the country, and you can visit wildlife sanctuaries just outside of the city to get up close and learn about kangaroos, wallabies, koala bears, Tasmanian devils, and other local species.

The flight from Sydney to Melbourne is one hour and 15 minutes.

Sydney is 545 miles northeast of Melbourne.

If you're driving, it'll take you nine hours to get from Melbourne to Sydney.

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Melbourne to Sydney Train

Melbourne to sydney railway route.

Travel time

Trains per day

Reverse route

• Trains: NSW TrainLink regional express trains.
• Ticket price: from 111 USD an economy class seat.
• Seat reservation: after booking a ticket, you will be assigned to one of the seats.
• Ticket delivery: you can download the PDF of the tickets to print them or show on your electronic device when boarding a train.

Book Train Tickets from Melbourne to Sydney

Melbourne to sydney train details, departing from.

Southern Cross Station

Spencer Street, Melbourne, Victoria Australia, Australia

Arriving at

Sydney Central Railway Station

Railway Colonnade Dr, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia

FAQ: What to Know About Melbourne - Sydney Train

HOW LONG IS THE TRAIN JOURNEY FROM MELBOURNE TO SYDNEY?

​WHAT IS THE TRAIN FROM MELBOURNE TO SYDNEY CALLED?

All Melbourne to Sydney trains trains are operated by the Australian coach and train operator NSW TrainLink , known for its high-quality service in both freight transportation as well as passenger services.

IS THERE A DIRECT TRAIN FROM MELBOURNE TO SYDNEY?

There is a comfortable train daily departing from Southern Cross with no waits and arriving at Central Station.

Discover More Destinations in Australia

Sydney to canberra train, newcastle to sydney train, sydney to brisbane train.

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Book Sydney to Melbourne by train

Book online and save

Get a 10% discount when you book online, or up to 20% discount when you book 5 or more days in advance. Conditions apply.

Discount is exclusive to tickets bought through this website and applies to seasonal Adult fares.  

Book a NSW TrainLink train from Sydney to Melbourne

Tickets available for travel in both directions

NSW TrainLink offers daily services that take you from Sydney Central station to Melbourne Southern Cross station in just over 10 hours. With comfortable seating and scenic views along the way, NSW TrainLink is a convenient and enjoyable way to travel between Australia's two largest cities. 

Board the train in the evening and wake up to a new city. 

Highlights:

• On board buffet car
• Choice of Economy or First Class travel
• Sleeper cabins available (with complimentary breakfast)

How to book

• Advance booking is recommended to secure your seats and ensure availability.
• You can purchase tickets online, over the phone, or at the station.
• Please note that Opal cards are not accepted on NSW Trainlink trains.

Ways to save on fares

The best ways to save on train fares from Sydney to Brisbane: 

• Book online and save:  Get the best fares and secure your seats by booking online.You can save up to 10% on your ticket price when you book online.
• Book in advance:  When you book a Standard Adult fare online 5 or more days before your planned departure date, you can get a discount of up to 20% on your fare. Conditions apply .
• Travel outside of peak season:  Peak fares apply during busy travel periods, including in the lead up to and during school holidays, public holidays and major events. Check fare seasons times to see when you can save  .
• Look out for special deals:  Take advantage of special sale fares  when they're on offer. 
• Buy a Discovery Pass :  Get unlimited travel to more than 365 destinations.

Please note: Opal cards are not accepted on NSW TrainLink trains.

Seating options

Economy class seat.

• 1 piece of large luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
• Lean back on 28 degree recline seats
• Air conditioned cabin

First Class Seat

• 2 pieces of luggage and 1 hand luggage
• Stretch out with a 40 degree seat recline and extra leg room

First class overnight sleeper

• Shower facilities available
• Bed linen, towels and toiletries provided
• Complimentary breakfast

Call 13 22 32  to book

Book your trip now

* All fares shown are one-way Adult fares only. Fares vary seasonally in response to demand and may be different to those shown here.

Find out more about XPT train carriages layout .

Trip summary

The things to know before you go

Route map and timetables

Download the the full train timetable departing from Sydney to Melbourne and for the reverse journey from Melbourne to Sydney.  Check travel alerts for up-to-date information before you travel.

Sydney to Melbourne train timetable

Melbourne to sydney train timetable.

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Jetstar Business Class Review: What Is It Like & Is It Worth It? We Flew From Singapore To Melbourne & This Is What You Can Expect

Let's get one thing out of the way: Business Class on a low-cost carrier is not Business Class on a full-service airline. But it is a pretty close match to a full-service airline's Premium Economy (PE), as we recently found out flying on Jetstar Business Class. Misnomer aside, there may be no lie-flat beds on Jetstar Business Class but it is still a veritable elevated flight experience, perks and all.

And these perks make a whole lot of difference, as I learned firsthand on my recent return flights between Singapore and Melbourne on Jetstar Business Class, when I was getting a sneak peek at Jetstar’s new uniforms to be launched later this year (it’s the airline’s first uniform overhaul in its 20-year history).

From Singapore, Jetstar Business Class is available on the Singapore-Melbourne route. If you’re flying from Down Under, Business Class is available on 17 international routes originating from Australia, including Sydney and Gold Coast.

Jetstar Business Class Review: Singapore-Melbourne and Melbourne-Singapore (Boeing 787 Dreamliner)

The Jetstar Business Class cabin on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is in a 2-3-2 configuration, and there is a dedicated washroom for the 21 Business Class passengers, which is always a bonus.

What is the Jetstar Business Class seat like? 

In terms of size, Jetstar Business Class seats are comparable to full-service airlines’ Premium Economy. The Jetstar Business Class seat has a seat pitch of 38 inches, and a width of 19 inches. In comparison, Singapore Airlines Premium Economy has a seat pitch 38 inches, and a width ranging from 18.5 to 19.5 inches, depending on aircraft. 

Needless to say, it’s considerably more spacious than Economy (seat pitch 30 inches and width of 17 inches). While the leather seats on Jetstar Business Class do not turn into lie-flat beds, I still got plenty of shut-eye (even though I forgot to pack my travel pillow ). That’s because it did have the one feature that I’ve always appreciated on a plane seat: the raised calf rest. Coupled with a good amount of recline, it provides enough support to make you feel more comfortable and is gentler on the back as well.

The Business Class seats offer considerably more legroom compared to Economy, but if you do get a chance, book yourself a bulkhead seat in Biz for even more space. 

Left: Seated at the window seat (1J) for the first flight, there was more than enough space for me to pass my seat neighbour to get to the washroom without disturbing him.

Right: On my way back, I was on an aisle seat in the middle of the plane (1F), which slightly overlaps with the entry to the galley. Taller folks will appreciate the extra leg space, but you may get crew occasionally bumping into you, though it was hardly a bother. 

Jetstar Business Class: Food and drinks 

Friendly cabin crew come round to serve Business Class passengers sparkling wine or juice and to take your meal orders at the start of the flight. Meals, drinks and snacks are included in the ticket price, and this is typically two meals each flight. Here’s what I ate on the flights and how they fared. 

• Dinner: Chicken with rice, a cheesecake and sourdough bread. This was tasty and a sufficient portion for what is a late dinner (take-off was at 9pm).  
• Breakfast: Omelette with sausages, potatoes and tomatoes, with a side of sourdough bread and a muffin. Not bad by plane food standards. 

Melbourne to Singapore

• Lunch: Spinach and ricotta ravioli, side salad, a slice of cake and bread. Delish, and a reasonable portion.
• Chicken quesadilla with cheesecake and bread. This was the only meal that was a little underwhelming.

Snacks like chips, crackers, chocolate and cake as well as drinks are available upon request if you get hungry in between meal services. 

What other perks do you get on Jetstar Business Class? 

Business Class passengers are provided with a blanket (thinner than usual but still keeps you warm enough), a pillow, and an amenity kit (or the Chill Kit, as they call it). Packed in a reusable tote, it includes an eye mask, ear plugs, socks, toothpaste and toothbrush, hand cream, wet wipes and a pen.

And, yes, there is inflight entertainment with your Business Class seat on Jetstar, something that the premium class on other low-cost carriers lack. Noise-cancelling headphones are also provided, and I have to say, these are pretty decent and do a reasonable job of blocking out noise. Although I still used my favourite Sony XM5 noise-cancelling headphones  for most of the two flights, I wouldn’t be miffed if I forgot my own headphones and had to use the ones provided.

Of course, Business Class passengers also get 30kg checked-in luggage, 14kg carry-on baggage, and priority boarding for flights. There’s also a dedicated check-in counter for Business Class at the Melbourne airport. 

But perhaps one of the most underrated perks that not many talk about is that Business Class passengers on the Sin-Mel flight receive is an Express Pass, which allows you to skip immigration queues after you land at the Melbourne Airport. 

So is Jetstar Business Class worth it?

Yes, especially if you need the extra sleep and space on the seven-hour flight to Melbourne. In fact, I managed to get a few hours of sleep on board (personal achievement unlocked). Depending on when you book, Jetstar Business Class flights may be cheaper than standard airlines’ Premium Economy, with both offering similar flight experiences. Return Singapore-Melbourne flights on Jetstar Business Class start at $2,066 ( book here ).

Where to stay in Melbourne

Quincy Hotel Melbourne

Room rates:  From $207. Book on Agoda , Booking.com and Expedia . Book your Melbourne airport transfers , tours and SIM cards on Klook.  

We loved the convenience of this uber-chic boutique hotel, located in the Melbourne CBD and close to the Southern Cross train station (there is a direct SkyBus Express Transfer from Melbourne Airport to the station; available here from $21.05). Exploring is also easy with many cafes and attractions within walking distance as well as tram stops less than five minutes away. Replete with spacious picture-perfect vibrant rooms in joyful hues, the hotel also has impressive breakfast offerings — the chilli scrambled eggs with crab meat is an explosion of flavours, and makes for a warm, hearty meal that will fuel you for a day of exploring the city.

This trip was made possible by Jetstar. 

Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at time of publishing.

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• Travel Updates

Alarming spike in Melbourne train track trespassers

A dangerous activity has spiked in a major Australian city, with one worrying reason a key driver in the trend.

‘Snapped in half’: Man’s horror flight

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Trespassers on Melbourne train tracks have spiked with the cause in part put down to mental health issues.

The number of times someone had gone onto the Metro Trains tracks in the past 12 months had spiked 40 per cent, Metro Trains executive Paul O’Halloran told 3AW this week.

Every day about eight people were reported as being on the tracks, or about 3000 a year, Mr O’Halloran said.

“It’s hard to put a finger on, from a societal lens, what has caused it,” he said.

A factor in the surge was people coming “back in droves to the network” after Covid-19 lockdowns, Mr O’Halloran said.

Increased mental health issues were also a factor in increasing trespassing incidents, he believed.

“The same people are trespassing, repeat offenders … there are a number of people who are trespassing causing major delays time and time again,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“The actual impact of particular individuals is really quite harmful and impactful to our travelling public.

“It changes from month to month, new recidivists seem to come onto the network and others drop out, but it’s about 10 people at any given time who are causing us continued day-to-day interruptions to the network,” Mr O’Halloran said.

Trespassing between Richmond and North Melbourne inconvenienced the most people, he said.

Security and surveillance staff use drones to quickly locate people and direct police, alongside 11,000 CCTV cameras.

Security patrol the hotspots and guards knew the recidivists and contacted police when they spotted one, Mr O’Halloran said.

People who take a shortcut or mistime a level crossing are being abated by 16km of fencing in hotspots.

In December 2019, anti-trespasser ground panels were installed at five hotspot locations - Keilor Plains, Yarraville, Prahran, Narre Warren and Berwick. In 2021, anti-trespass panels were installed at every platform at Flinders St Station.

“Frankston line, Sandringham, Pakenham, Cranbourne, Mernda, they’re the target areas at the moment,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“We put a lot of signs up for people for Lifeline with the messaging of ‘Pause, call, be heard’ at those hotspots.”

A Victorian government spokesperson said “we’re making sure all Victorians can get the support they need, when they need it and close to home”.

During the past three years the government invested $6 billion to mental health support, the spokesperson said.

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Activists say assault of Cambodian-Australian visiting homeland was politically motivated

A brutal attack on a politically active Cambodian-Australian visiting his homeland has sent shock waves through Australia's Cambodian diaspora. 

WARNING: This story contains a graphic image.

The incident — which left Melbourne man San Bunchhay needing eight stitches for a gash in his head — sets a worrying precedent according to community leaders and has already prompted some activists to cancel upcoming travel plans. 

It's also dispelled notions for some that the handover of power from strongman leader Hun Sen to his son, Prime Minister Hun Manet, last year might mean less repression of dissident political voices. 

Mr Bunchhay, 43, was in the Cambodian town of Battambang to celebrate Khmer New Year when he was assaulted on April 10.

He had just visited a bank downtown about 5.50pm when he was set upon by as many as six men wearing masks and motorcycle helmets and armed with bamboo sticks.

"As the assailants were beating me, two of them blocked the door of my car to prevent my wife, children and relatives from getting out to help me," he told media outlet RFA .

"These guys violently attacked me, even though there were two security guards stationed in front of the bank and about 20 people entering and leaving the building."

The assailants escaped on motorcycles while Mr Bunchhay was taken to hospital where he was treated for injuries including the wound on his head.

A vocal opposition supporter on social media, Mr Bunchhay had been involved with protests in Australia ahead of Cambodia's elections last year and before Mr Manet's visit to Australia in March this year. 

Adding to suspicions the attack was politically motivated, Mr Bunchhay told RFA, was the fact that the police attended his family home while he was still in hospital before he had a chance to report the incident. 

He and his family cut their visit short and returned to Australia on April 12.

The ABC approached Mr Bunchhay for comment but he said that after being interviewed by RFA he had been asked by his family not to speak to any other media.

'We're not going to Cambodia'

In recent years, Cambodia's government has increasingly cracked down on dissent, effectively quashing political opponents, civil society and the free press in the country.    

A report by pro-democracy group Freedom House earlier this year found that Cambodia was also among the top five perpetrators of "transnational repression" along with with Russia, Myanmar, Turkmenistan, and China.

It said the Cambodian government was responsible for at least 15 documented incidents including the assault of four Cambodian activists and the detention of eight others in Thailand. 

Even in Australia, critics of the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) have had their activities monitored and  received death threats . 

However, some had felt it was still possible to visit Cambodia without fear of retribution.

A Cambodian-Australian activist, who asked to be referred to as Mrs A, said the assault on Mr Bunchhay had changed that.

She said she had cancelled an upcoming trip — her first since before the pandemic.

"This year, we thought, OK, everything has settled down, everything's quiet, seemed to be in a friendly tone," she said.

"But then this guy got attacked in Cambodia because he went to the demonstrations.

"So that really shook us up and we decided no, not this year. We're not going to Cambodia."

She said the diaspora community was "really concerned".

"It's really, really frightening and it's not just myself now not going to Cambodia," she said.

"A few other people also say that they cannot go into Cambodia anymore."

Hun Manet 'no different from his father'

Hemara In, the president of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) in Victoria, told the ABC he had no doubt the attack was politically motivated.

He said it had the same modus operandi as countless other attacks on government critics, however this was the first assault of an Australian in Cambodia that he was aware of.

"All of us, especially those who are really involved in politics, or those who tried to promote democracy in Cambodia, we are really in shock," he said.

Mr In, who faces jail in Cambodia after he was accused in 2021 of incitement to topple the government, said the incident dispelled any notion Mr Manet was any less authoritarian than his father. 

"Many Cambodians believed that because Hun Manet was educated abroad, he would understand democracy a bit better than his father, who was a former Khmer Rouge," he said.

"But since Hun Manet has become prime minister there have been many arrests [in Cambodia] and also people in Thailand were attacked.

"So no, we don't believe that Hun Manet is any different from his father."

Mr In said the Australian embassy in Phnom Penh should convey its concerns to the Hun Manet government.

"The Cambodian government should guarantee to the Australian government that this sort of thing will never happen again or at least try to get those who committed this crime to justice," he said.

Human Rights Watch's Asia deputy director Bryony Lau said the organisation had documented other similar attacks on critics of the Cambodian government.

"Those attacks, like this recent assault on San Bunchhay, should be investigated," she said.

In a Facebook post, Battambang Provincial Police Commissioner Sat Kimsan said the police were investigating the case urgently and carefully.

He told RFA the motorbike licence plates had been identified but the suspects' identities remained unknown because their faces were covered.

Lack of arrests 'curious'

Federal MP for Bruce Julian Hill, whose electorate includes one of the largest Cambodian communities in Australia, said he had met with Mr Bunchhay and his wife.

"[I] am finalising a report on the incident which we will be forwarding to the foreign minister," Mr Hill said in a statement.

"It is 'curious', to say the least, that the Cambodian authorities manage to track down and arrest online critics of the regime with breathtaking speed even when they use false-names online, yet have been unable to arrest the perpetrators of this violent incident despite apparently having clear CCTV footage.

"Australians in the Cambodian community have a right to speak freely in Australia without fear of being physically attacked when doing nothing wrong."

The ABC contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade who said they stood ready to provide consular assistance, should it be requested.

"Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment," a spokesperson said.

The Cambodian embassy in Australia did not respond to the ABC's request for comment.

Sue Coffey, editor of Seeking Justice in Cambodia and board member at Cambodian human rights group Licadho, said the "appalling" attack on Mr Bunchhay was "symptomatic of the continuing climate of violence and repression under the Cambodian government led by Hun Manet".

"The attack seems designed to silence anyone daring to oppose the government," she said.

"The Australian government should demand Cambodia identify and arrest those responsible for an attack on an Australian citizen.

"Clearly members of the Cambodian diaspora in Australia are not safe to return to Cambodia if they are known to have criticised the CPP."

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• Singapore Loses ‘World’s Best Airport’ Crown to Qatar

(Bloomberg) -- The race for the “world’s best airport” crown has been a two-horse affair in recent years, with Doha’s Hamad International and Singapore Changi leading the pack.

This year the title has switched, with 12-time winner Singapore being edged out of the top spot by its Middle Eastern rival in the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2024 .

In a strong showing for Asia, Seoul Incheon bagged third place — also being named 2024’s most family friendly airport — while Tokyo’s twin facilities of Haneda and Narita  took fourth and fifth spots.

Hong Kong airport saw a significant boost, up 22 positions to 11th place after the city shook off its Covid-19 hangover and passenger numbers rose.

Once again US airports were nowhere to be seen near the top of the table, with the highest ranked, Seattle-Tacoma, slipping six places to 24.

Europe continued to have a strong showing, with Paris Charles de Gaulle, Munich, Zurich and Istanbul all maintaining positions in the top 10.

In other moves:

“This year HIA celebrates its milestone 10th year of operations and we are truly honored that passengers have voted us Best Airport in the World for a third time,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Al Meer.

The Skytrax World Airport Awards are determined by customer satisfaction survey.

These are the world’s best airports of 2024, alongside last year’s rankings:

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