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7 Unmissable Things to Do in Victoria, Australia
Written by Annabel Fuller
Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a local looking to escape the big smoke, discover the top things to do in Victoria, from day hikes to wine tastings.
It’s time to hit the road and explore Victoria’s vibrant cities, rugged coastlines, snow-clad high country and rolling vineyards. Victoria may be small, but it sure is mighty when it comes to unbeatable experiences. From the cosmopolitan capital to the tranquil countryside, you’ll discover everything from après ski celebrations to penguin waddles, oceanside hiking trails and tranquil spas. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, there’s always something new to discover in Victoria: the Place to Be.
Ready to book your Victorian escape? Check out Luxury Escapes’ handpicked escapes and experiences.
Discover Victoria
Discover the attractions & laneways of Melbourne CBD
Explore like a Melburnian as you journey beyond the tourist attractions to find hidden laneways, bustling markets and art galleries.
Once you’ve braved the crowds of Bourke Street Mall, embark on an epicurean discovery through the hidden laneways of the CBD. Stop for a barista-made coffee and marvel at the street art before losing yourself in the artworks of the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International). Admire this treasure trove of globally renowned exhibitions showcasing First Nations, Australian and international artists.
When it’s time to eat, feast your way through Queen Victoria Market – the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere. Arrive hungry and graze your way across the globe feasting on Turkish boreks, Chinese dumplings and Australian bush tucker.
No trip to Melbourne is complete without a visit to the famed MCG. If you’re lucky enough to be travelling during AFL season, snag a seat and join Melburnians as they roar for their favourite football team. In the off-season, watch a cricket match or take a tour of club rooms.
Uncover hidden treasures along the Great Ocean Road
There’s so much to discover along the Great Ocean Road’s magical stretch of rugged coastline. Beyond Lorne and Anglesea, Apollo Bay acts as the gateway to the incredible Great Otway National Park. Verdant landscapes, rushing waterfalls and trickling creeks make this awe-inspiring national park a bucket-list destination. It is home to the thrilling treetop canopy walk and Hopetoun Falls, Beauchamp Falls and Triplet Falls, all of which offer excellent hikes and bathing pools.
Lose yourself in the magic of Port Fairy – the most westerly town along the Great Ocean Road. Breeze past the 12 Apostles at sunset, so you can watch the sea spray shimmer on the glowing structures.
Toast a tasty tipple in the Yarra Valley
There’s a reason people travel from across the globe to visit the Yarra Valley. With over 160 wineries in the region, from family-run cellar doors to seasonal pop-ups and globally celebrated vineyards, there is no shortage of places for a delicious glass of wine. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. For world-renowned chardonnay and pinot noir, stop in at the renowned Domaine Chandon for a tasting. For contemporary architecture, farm-to-plate cuisine and Australian art, be sure to visit the fabulous TarraWarra Estate.
Take the decision-making out of where to go with a private, full-day guided tour of the region.
Waddle your way to Phillip Island
Only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is abundant with Australian wildlife and spectacular coastal scenery. Home to Australia’s premier motorcycle Grand Prix Circuit, world-class surf breaks and the family-friendly A Maze’N Things park, the island is packed with exciting activities for all types of travellers. Witness impressive columns of water blasting from Nobbies Blowhole and spot the curious seals off the southwestern tip of Phillip Island before ending your day at the iconic Penguin Parade. Watch in awe as the island’s resident colony marches towards the shore after a day of fishing in the ocean.
Enhance your experience by booking a full-day trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island and enjoy photo stops along the way to capture snapshots of the colourful Brighton Beach boxes, spot cuddly koalas and kangaroos at a wildlife park and watch the Penguin Parade.
Hit the ski slopes in Victoria’s High Country
Every winter, hordes of visitors hit the slopes in Victoria’s high country to get their thrills. From the picturesque mountains at Falls Creek to the big drops of Mount Hotham and the family-friendly terrain of Mount Buller, there’s a ski slope for every skill level.
After your skiing, snowboarding, or sledding adventure, make time for après ski. This celebrated post-ski tradition is a must-do activity. All of Victoria’s ski fields have plentiful bars, cafés and restaurants to toast to your snowcapped escape.
Soak up the serenity in Victoria’s spa capital
It’s not every day we treat ourselves to pure relaxation… so go all out with an escape to Daylesford, Victoria’s spa capital. Steaming mineral pools, mouthwatering cuisine and mindful nature walks along picturesque trails are all essential experiences to tick off when you escape to Daylesford in Victoria’s Central Highlands.
Kickstart your wellness escape with a gentle stroll around the Lake Daylesford walking trail. Find paddleboats for hire, kayaking trails and eco-cruises or simply relax by the water. Following a morning of mindfulness, discover the magic of minerals at the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse and Spa, where you can soak in the warm mineral-rich waters of the region. There are a handful of pools to bathe in, some filled with magnesium, thermal mud or royal Moroccan milk, all designed to soothe your mind and soul. Why not opt to enhance your experience with a massage or steam therapy? End your escape at the Passing Clouds Winery, where you can toast to your rejuvenating escape over delicious local produce.
Reconnect with nature along the Mornington Peninsula
Get your nature fix along the stunning Mornington Peninsula where sandy shores, coastal walks and thermal hot springs are just the beginning. Find mindful movement as you paddle in the peninsula’s sapphire waters and clear your mind on the Mornington Peninsula Coastal Walk from Cape Schanck to the Point Nepean National Park. Let all your troubles melt away with a blissful wellness experience at the family-run Peninsula Hot Springs, home to over 70 bathing and wellness experiences.
For a full day of luxury, treat yourself to the Alba Thermal Springs package and enjoy access to the thermal springs followed by an indulgent 60-minute signature artisan massage treatment. Finish with a two-course meal at Thyme, complemented by a glass of local Mornington Peninsula wine or craft beer.
Ready to book your Victorian escape? Check out Luxury Escapes’ handpicked escapes and experiences.
Discover Victoria
Looking for more Victoria inspiration? Read What to Do in Melbourne: 48 Delicious Hours in the CBD.
