MUST SEE SPOTS TO VISIT IN Victoria
Melbourne CBD
Just a short tram ride from all inner city and urban locations this amazing part of the city offers galleries, museums and eateries to suit every taste and budget - amazing modern architecture, meets Victorian charm. The CBD is beautifully framed by the Yarra River, offering scenic walkways that stretch along its banks. Strolling by the river, you can enjoy views of the city skyline, lush parks, and vibrant riverside cafes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, bike ride or a spot to eat whether that be a cheap takeaway poke or a more expensive leisurely lunch.
Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD) is the vibrant heart of Australia's cultural capital, brimming with a rich blend of history, modernity, and eclectic charm. The CBD is renowned for its lively laneways, where you’ll discover a maze of hidden cafes, boutique shops, and colorful street art. Exploring these laneways, such as Hosier Lane and Degraves Street, provides an authentic taste of Melbourne’s creative spirit and culinary delights. Additionally, the iconic Federation Square stands as a hub of cultural activity, hosting events, exhibitions, and a range of dining options with striking architectural designs that contrast beautifully with the city’s historic buildings.
Melbourne CBD.
For a dose of art and history, a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria is a must, showcasing a diverse collection of both local and international art. The Melbourne Museum, nestled in Carlton Gardens, offers fascinating exhibits on Australian history, culture, and natural sciences, including a stunning rainforest experience. To take in the city’s skyline, head to the Eureka Skydeck, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere. Make sure not to miss out on a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, an urban oasis providing a serene escape with its meticulously landscaped gardens and peaceful lakes. Whether you’re indulging in world-class dining, exploring cultural landmarks, or simply soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Melbourne CBD offers a dynamic and memorable experience for every visitor.
Melbourne's vibrant market scene offers another layer to the city's diverse experiences, with some of the best markets located just outside the CBD. Although not directly in the city centre, markets such as Fitzroy Market and the iconic Queen Victoria Market are easily accessible and worth the short tram ride. Fitzroy Market is known for its quirky, artisanal goods, while Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne institution, famous for fresh produce, gourmet food, and unique souvenirs. These markets provide a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Melbourne's local culture, and they are close enough to make an effortless half-day excursion from the CBD.
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic coastlines with multiple spots and plenty of wildlife to see such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, lizards and masses of parakeets and cockatoos.
Whether you want to blast it out in a day or take your time stopping along the way to take in the scenery here are some spots along the Great Ocean Road you’ve got to visit. The route itself covers 664km/413 miles and takes on average 9.5 hours to complete, you can comfortably complete this trip over three days.
This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, making it a must-visit destination for travellers. As you wind your way along the coast, the road reveals some of the most spectacular natural wonders, starting with the famous Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, creating a dramatic and unforgettable landscape. Visiting at sunrise, sunset, or any time in between, the Twelve Apostles are a sight to behold.
Beyond the Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Road is dotted with other incredible spots worth exploring. Stop by Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning cove named after a shipwreck from 1878, where you can walk along the sandy beach and marvel at the towering cliffs that encircle it. For a more immersive experience, head to the Otway National Park, where you can wander through ancient rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls like Erskine Falls, and take a treetop walk at the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures. Further along, the charming coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay offer perfect places to relax, with their inviting beaches, cafes, and local shops. From surfing at Bells Beach, hiking through the rainforest, or simply enjoying the drive, the Great Ocean Road is a journey filled with unforgettable moments and must-see destinations.
Twelve Apostles - Great Ocean Road.
Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is a picturesque region that blends coastal charm with rolling vineyards and serene landscapes. Known for its pristine beaches, boutique wineries, and relaxing hot springs, the Peninsula is a favorite escape for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re exploring the seaside villages like Sorrento and Portsea or indulging in the region’s gourmet food and wine, the Mornington Peninsula offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Among the some of the gems on the Peninsula, Cape Schanck stands out with its dramatic cliffs and historic lighthouse, offering stunning coastal views and scenic walking trails. Another must-visit is the enchanting Point Nepean National Park, where you can explore historic military forts and enjoy panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the Peninsula’s hidden beaches, such as Shelley Beach and Bridgewater Bay, provide secluded spots to unwind away from the crowds. The Peninsula Hot Springs is another hidden treasure, offering natural thermal baths set in a beautiful landscape, perfect for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re hiking through coastal trails, discovering secret beaches, or soaking in hot springs, the Mornington Peninsula is filled with hidden delights waiting to be explored.
Mornington Peninsula offers some breathtaking crystal clear rock pools and awesome cliff jumps. One of our favourite go-to spots has to be Bushrangers bay. During low tide hours it’s a great spot for a refreshing dip just an hour and a half out of Melbourne city and is easily one of the best places to chill out for the day. En route to Cape Schanck Lighthouse take the costal path down to the beach and you’ll find this hidden gem to the left hand side of the beach.
Bushrangers Bay - Mornington Peninsula.
Martha Pillars and Bridgewater beach are two prime locations for cliff jumping, snorkelling and swimming, both also just an hour and a half drive from the city. Bridgewater bay is just a 15 minute easy walk down to the cove, following signs to Bridgewater Bay, it has numerous jumping spots from the rock and a stunning place to spend a hot summers day! It is recommended to go during low tide otherwise the rockpool can be fairly choppy from the waves. Always depth check before jumping to make sure you’re in a safe spot!
The Martha Pillars, a striking geological formation along the Mornington Peninsula, are one of the region's hidden treasures. These towering limestone stacks, located near Mount Martha, are a testament to the Peninsula’s natural beauty and ancient history. Formed over thousands of years by wind and sea erosion, the pillars rise dramatically from the coastline, creating a breathtaking sight that contrasts with the serene waters of Port Phillip Bay. Visiting the Martha Pillars is like stepping into another world, where the rugged landscape meets the tranquil sea, offering a unique and picturesque spot for photography, exploration, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
To reach the Martha Pillars, start your journey from Melbourne and head towards the Mornington Peninsula via the Mornington Peninsula Freeway. Once you reach Mount Martha, take the turnoff for the Esplanade, a scenic coastal road that winds its way along the bay. From there, park at the nearby car park and follow the walking trail that leads down to the beach. The path can be a bit challenging, with some rocky sections, so it’s advisable to wear sturdy footwear. As you make your way to the Pillars, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore this hidden gem, which remains a favourite among locals but is often missed by tourists.
Werribee Gorge
For those of who enjoy a scenic walk, Werribee Gorge is a perfect spot, with climbs along rock formations, beautiful fresh water pools dotted along the river and amazing viewpoints. Although there are some areas which may be trickier than others, be sure to have the correct shoes! There are different length routes you can take with the longest taking roughly around 4 hours to complete. If you’re lucky you might be able to spot the wild wallabies that roam the area!
Werribee Gorge, located about an hour’s drive west of Melbourne, is one of Victoria’s hidden natural gems, offering a rugged and adventurous escape from the city. This ancient gorge, carved by the Werribee River over millions of years, boasts dramatic cliffs, steep rock faces, and winding trails that attract hikers and nature lovers alike. The gorge is part of the Werribee Gorge State Park, a protected area that preserves its unique geological features and diverse ecosystems. If you’re looking to challenge yourself with a hike or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Werribee Gorge offers a rewarding experience for all who visit.
Werribee Gorge State Park.
The most popular way to explore Werribee Gorge is by taking the Circuit Walk, a 10-kilometer loop that offers stunning views and a bit of adventure. The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes, from open bushland to rocky outcrops, and includes sections where you’ll need to use chains to navigate the steeper parts of the gorge. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the winding Werribee River below. One of the highlights of the walk is the “Needles Beach,” a peaceful sandy spot along the river, perfect for a rest or a picnic. As you explore, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species that call the park home. Werribee Gorge is not just a destination for seasoned hikers; it’s a place where you can connect with nature, challenge yourself, and enjoy the stunning beauty of Victoria’s natural landscape.
Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilson’s Promontory, affectionately known as “The Prom,” is one of Victoria’s most cherished natural landscapes, offering a captivating blend of coastal beauty and wilderness adventure. Located at the southern tip of the state, this iconic national park covers over 50,000 hectares of pristine beaches, dense forests, and rugged mountains. With its diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas, Wilson’s Promontory is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a serene escape into nature. It holds endless bushland trails, camping spots and pristine beaches. The park’s diverse range of activities includes scenic hikes, wildlife spotting and beach relaxation, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
Among the many hidden gems within Wilson’s Promontory, several spots stand out for their unique beauty and charm. One must-visit is Squeaky Beach, famous for its soft, quartz-rich sand that emits a squeaking sound as you walk on it. This picturesque beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastal scenery. Another hidden treasure is the promontory’s diverse range of hiking trails. The Mt. Oberon Summit Walk provides a challenging yet rewarding trek, leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the park and its rugged coastline. For a more secluded experience, head to the stunning Norman Beach, which offers a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches and provides a tranquil setting for swimming and relaxing. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic granite boulders at Whisky Bay or discovering the diverse wildlife along the park’s walking trails, Wilson’s Promontory promises unforgettable experiences and natural beauty.
Fairy cove has to be one of our teams favourite spots in Victoria and with good reason! Its crystal clear blue water makes it the ideal place for snorkelling and spearfishing with plenty of fish and even stingrays circling the cove. With this spot being around a 2 hour drive from Melbourne and a light 30 minute hike, you’ll find that this hidden gem is tucked away far from the crowds but it most certainly is worth the journey!
Fairy Cove - Wilsons Promontory National Park.
This pristine cove, accessible via a scenic 1.6-kilometer walk from the car park, offers a serene escape from the more frequented spots in the park. The trail to Fairy Cove winds through lush bushland, leading to a sheltered beach framed by striking granite boulders and clear, turquoise waters. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by soft, sandy shores and the gentle sounds of the ocean, an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic, a relaxing swim, or simply unwinding while taking in the breathtaking natural surroundings. The secluded nature of Fairy Cove makes it one of Victoria's best kept hidden gems!
