Awesome Free Things To Do In Melbourne, Australia

The 10 Best Day Trips from Melbourne to Admire Nature

Melbourne, one of Australia's busiest and most important cities, is a thriving metropolis with a diverse population composed of individuals from all over the world. Melbourne, a city in the Australian state of Victoria, is famous for its nightlife, culture, and architecture. Melbourne is located on the Yarra River, which supplies the city with water.

Moreover, the city is surrounded by numerous beautiful beaches where you can relax and have a good time. The city of Melbourne is conveniently located, so getting out of town for the day is easy.

Australia's most stunning landscapes may be seen just outside of Melbourne. However, day trips from Melbourne provide something for everyone, with the ocean on one side and the hills not far away.

There are many great places to eat, shop, and relax in the city, so round up your pals and plan a trip to Melbourne. By road and other public transportation, the city is in close proximity to these major landmarks. Here are a few of Melbourne's top attractions that you simply must see.

1. Puffing Billy Railway

If you want to see some of the rainforests near Melbourne, a day trip on the Puffing Billy Railway is a terrific option. Emerald Lake Park is a beautiful place to spend time in the rainforest before venturing out to the rural community of Gembrook. Bridges and beautiful Wright Forest landscapes may be found throughout the walk.

Travelling on the railway is a great way to see one of the most visited sights outside the city and meet some fascinating people.

One of the more interesting sights the train will take you past is the Dandenong Ranges. Breathe deeply in the clean air that the jungle has to offer.

It's a great time that will take you back to a simpler era when steam trains were the norm, and people spent more time chatting than staring at their phones.

Spend a fantastic day with your loved ones on this lovely day trip from Melbourne by touring the surrounding farmlands, where potatoes are still produced, and taking in the scenery surrounded forest by the eucalyptus trees.

Romantic dinners and lunches are offered, and there's even a murder mystery excursion. To add to the romance, there are musicians on board to play for you and your date and drinks with romantic names that you can buy if you're interested.

2. The bLoch ard Gorge

The ship was named after the clipper, "Loch Ard," which came aground on adjacent Muttonbird Island. After a three-month journey from England, only two people on the boat made it to safety. A lot of Melburnians like to take day trips to the Loch ard Gorge, which is conveniently located close to the city.

With its stunning rock formations, orange sand beaches, and panoramic vistas, Loch and Gorge is a must-see for any travelling taking the Great Ocean Road. Those interested in Australia's history and biodiversity often come here to learn more.

The world-famous Twelve Apostles of Port Campbell National Park are only about three minutes away. You should stop by there before making your way to the Apostles.

Crystal clear blue water forms a bay at the base of a yellowed cliff, surrounded by verdant vegetation. The history of Loch Ard is equally fascinating, spanning several centuries. .

3. Mornington Peninsula

Natural beauty and undulating hills and valleys characterise the Mornington Peninsula, a biosphere reserve in Melbourne. These can be opened to the sea and provide breathtaking views of the ocean. Visitors from Melbourne visit Mornington daily to relax and spend time with loved ones.

Tourists flock to the Peninsula all year to take in the region's picture-perfect beaches and enjoy a picnic. Many seasonal attractions on the Peninsula ensure that the Peninsula remains a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer.

Travellers can stop by any number of wineries in the region, each of which is sure to wow with its unique atmosphere and a selection of wines spanning decades.

In addition, the Western Port and Port Phillip provide ideal conditions for a variety of water sports. Most tourists to the area come from Melbourne, where many guests stay in rented villas, private beach houses, shared cottages, and campsites.

One of the nicest day trips you can take from Melbourne is to the Peninsula; you'll come back with stories to tell and pictures to cherish forever.

4. Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is another stunning tourist destination within a day's drive of Melbourne. You can enjoy the company of your loved ones while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the valley's vineyards and lush meadows.

Countless celebrations, orchards, and weddings have taken place in this breathtaking valley. For Melbourne locals, a visit here is akin to a religious pilgrimage, as the breathtaking scenery is thought to instil a sense of calm and tranquillity in visitors.

The Yarra Valley is a popular tourist destination since it offers a wide variety of things to do for visitors. In addition, Yarra Valley is a fantastic destination for any adventurer who wants to learn more about Australia's rich history and diverse landscapes, whether they're interested in cycling, safaris, corporate gatherings, weekend trips, or something else entirely.

The area is also a cultural mecca, with several museums, galleries, tours, and other opportunities to experience the arts. You may also plan a trip to Yarra that includes an overnight stay so that you can explore the area and all it has to offer.

5. Sovereign Hill

Day trips from Melbourne can be made to Sovereign Hill, an outdoor museum presenting some of Australia's most interesting sights. The Hill is a memorial to the region's rich past, specifically the time when gold was seen there.

The area was designed to look like it did when it was originally settled in the 1850s. It has some of the world's largest and most productive alluvial gold resources. It's a great place to visit if you're seeking a break from the norm on your vacation.

Here, tourists can "pan" for actual gold at the banks of a winding creek. Both modern buildings and tents have an antique feel to them. Another feature is the Gold Pour, in which 3 kilogrammes (6.6 pounds) of gold worth $100,000 was poured into a bullion bar.

Tours are offered at set times throughout the day. One such tour is the Red Hill Mine, where you may learn about the discovery of the Welcome Nugget by a band of young Cornishmen. You can also take a guided tour of the Sovereign Quartz Mine, which will take about 40 minutes and take you to several underground exhibits.

In addition to the excursions, there are hotels, stores, a blacksmith, a pharmacy, and a historic theatre along the city's streets. If you're seeking day trips from Melbourne, you won't find a more lovely destination; visit as soon as you can!

6. Twelve Apostles

The Twelve Apostles are a breathtaking natural wonder and, arguably, Australia's top coastal tourist attraction. The Twelve Apostles are a group of large limestone pillars on Australia's Gold Coast and are one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in the world. They can be reached easily on day trips from Melbourne.

Many tourists took advantage of organised helicopter trips to see these spectacular structures, which were formed over millennia by erosion and are now popular photo ops. The magnificence of the sights is only heightened by the stunning oceanfront location and the brilliant blue of the waves; this is a destination that should not be missed.

In addition, it's worth noting that Australia is home to some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world, which have earned the region the popular moniker "The Great Barrier Reef" and are located not far from the apostles.

In 2005, a pile of the apostles collapsed, but scientists predict that more piles will build in the area as a result of the weather.

7. Phillip Island Tourist Park

When planning a day trip from Melbourne, stop by the Phillip Island Tourist Parkland, a protected area that opened to the public in 1996. The Victorian State Government owns the park, yet it operates independently in finance and administration.

A large number of commercial and tourist destinations support animal welfare and conservation efforts. Only slightly over two hours from Melbourne, the park's expansive 1805 hectares include many distinct regions.

Fantastic landmarks including Nobbies Centre, Seal Rocks, the Penguin Parade, Rhyll Inlet, Cape Woolamai, and  Pyramid Rock can be found across the park. Seeing native Australian animals like koalas, penguins, and more in their natural environment is a highlight of a trip here.

Because of its significance in recognising and protecting the population of Pacific gulls, other endangered birds, and penguins, BirdLife International has designated much of the park as the Phillip Island Important Bird Area.

8. Phillip Island

Phillip Island, a popular day trip destination from Melbourne, is home to the Phillip Island Tourist Park and many other attractions.

Rhyll Inlet, a small water reserve on the Island, is well-known for its array of unusual flora and fauna, including mangroves, birds, and panoramic ocean views. A boardwalk allows visitors to experience the region from a different perspective.

At Nobbles Centre, another popular destination, you may also get up and personal with aquatic animals, including dolphins, seals, and sharks. Guided excursions are also available so that you can learn about the habits and routines of the local marine life.

The biggest draw is the Penguin Parade, where little penguins waddle ashore to breed or bask in the breeze. The tickets are reasonably priced, providing a fantastic chance for anyone interested in learning more about Australia's marine and local life to visit and spend quality time doing so.

9. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road, one of the most famous routes in the world, is a three-day drive with breathtaking ocean vistas the whole way. It all begins in Torquay and passes via stunning views of the Apostles. It's one of the world's most well-known roads, and it culminates in the picturesque fishing community of Port Fairy.

A road trip along the Great Ocean Road is a wonderful way to spend time with loved ones, as there are numerous places to take over and take in the scenery.

On your journey back to the headquarters of the internationally renowned Rip Curl brand, stop through Torquay Surf City. One last thing to look at is the surfers at the Southern Ocean and Bell Beach. On the way, you can visit verdant forests where you might see wild koala bears and perhaps pet a couple if they're sociable.

The roads along the seaside route are long and winding, so you can take your time enjoying the breathtaking scenery as you travel.

As a whole, it's a great time for car enthusiasts and a great way to get out of the city.

On this lovely trip, you'll also get to smell the eucalyptus trees that the koalas call home during the day. As part of your day excursion from Melbourne, you can also stop by the site of the old London Bridge, which was destroyed in a flood in the nineteenth century.

Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is where you'll find the picturesque road.

10. Dandenong Ranges

If you're looking for a beautiful weekend destination, look no further than Dandenong; be sure to bring a picnic basket or two. Day visits to the Dandenong Ranges, a collection ranges of low mountains outside Melbourne, are highly recommended.

The nearby hamlet contains shops where tourists can buy fresh, locally grown goods, and there are also trails for hiking and mountain biking. The region is home to numerous excellent restaurants, and you can quickly become immersed in the culture by dining at these establishments.

The flora and trees of the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens are beautiful, and there are attractive paths to stroll around. The National Rhododendron Gardens are also worth visiting because of the vibrant plants, flowers, foliage, and more that they include.

If you want a fantastic vacation with your friends or family, then the Ranges is the place to go. Some endangered and threatened species can be found roaming the trails and roads.

Incredible scenery can be seen from the famous Puffing Billy Railway, which also travels through this area. 

Conclusion

People of varying incomes will enjoy their time spent vacationing in Melbourne to the fullest. There is a lot to see and do in Melbourne, from the National Gallery of Victoria to the alleyways filled with street art.

In order to find the most delicious locally produced food and drink, Mosey ventures among the various vendors and old sheds that make up Queen Victoria Market. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne provide a tranquil escape from the frenetic activity of the city's central business district.

Screen Worlds is an exhibit at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image that details the development of motion pictures. Participate in the lively music scenes that can be found at the pubs Cherry Bar and The Basement.

From Princes Bridge all the way down to the Melbourne Exhibition Center, the Southbank entertainment district can be seen stretching along the Yarra River in Melbourne. The City Circle Tram provides passengers with the opportunity to travel on one of the city's famous trams.

In the 1890s, construction began on St. Paul's Cathedral, which can be found right in the middle of Melbourne's central business district. A stunning beachfront escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, St. Kilda is located 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) to the south-east of Melbourne.

The Koorie Heritage Trust is a free museum in Canberra that showcases the work of contemporary Indigenous artists. When the sun goes down and the city lights up, the views from rooftop bars are really breathtaking.

The Royal Australian Air Force Museum is a place where visitors may learn about the history of aviation in Australia at no cost. At the Shrine of Remembrance, Victorians who have served in any conflict or peacekeeping mission are honoured for their service. The city of Melbourne is one of the most populous and significant cities in Australia.

With the sea on one side and the hills on the other, day trips from Melbourne offer something for everyone. Many of Melbourne's annual events are festivals, and the majority of them incorporate both free and paid acts. In close proximity to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world lies the city of Melbourne.

Consider going on a day excursion on the Puffing Billy Railway or spending some time exploring the rainforests at Emerald Lake Park. The Twelve Apostles of Port Campbell National Park may be reached from the city in just a few minutes.

A UNESCO biosphere reserve can be found on the Mornington Peninsula in Melbourne. Every day, people travelling from Melbourne head to the Peninsula to unwind and catch up with friends and family. Another well-liked vacation spot that can be reached from Melbourne within a day's drive is the Yarra Valley.

The region is a cultural hotspot, boasting numerous museums, art galleries, and tours, in addition to various possibilities to engage with the arts. Day trips can be taken from Melbourne to Sovereign Hill, which is an outdoor museum that showcases some of Australia's most noteworthy landmarks and attractions.

During the Gold Pour, a total of three kilogrammes (6.6 pounds) of gold, with a market value of one hundred thousand dollars, was poured into a bullion bar. It is common for residents of Melbourne to travel to Phillip Island Tourist Parkland for a day trip. Even though it is owned by the State Government of Victoria, the park is managed on its own.

Rhyll Inlet is a small water reserve located on the Island that is well-known for the variety of exotic flora and wildlife that can be found there. The surfers at Bell Beach and the Southern Ocean may be seen from a fantastic vantage point in Torquay Surf City.

The picturesque route is the Great Ocean Road, which is located in Victoria in the Australian state of Australia. It is highly advised to take day trips to the Dandenong Ranges located just outside of Melbourne.

Content Summary

• From the National Gallery of Victoria to the street art laneways, Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city, has a lot to offer, and we'll show you how to do it without emptying your wallet.
• =Along St. Kilda Road, on the left, you'll see NGV International, a colossal bluestone structure from the 1960s that Sir Roy Grounds designed.
• Together with its sister museum, the Ian Potter Centre: NGV International, the National Gallery of Victoria houses around 73,000 artworks.
• Don't Miss The State Library Of Victoria
• Free tours of the State Library's amazing art collections and exhibitions are available.
• Explore the Queen Victoria Market.
• Discover ACMI's Screen Worlds.
• Screen Worlds, housed at ACMI (the Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Federation Square, is a free, permanent exhibition that traces the history of cinematic motion pictures.
• Live music is quite popular among Melburnians.
• Go on a Public Sculpture HuntDeborah Halpern, one of Australia's most renowned sculptors, has deep ties to Melbourne because of her time studying there.
• Near the gardens' primary entrance and the Shrine of Remembrance war memorial is The Tan, a 3.8km walking and running track that completely encircles the whole park.
• Inspire Yourself At The Wheeler CentreLocated at 111 Little Lonsdale Street, the Wheeler Centre was established in 2008 to promote and investigate Australia's literary community.
• Experience Melbourne's Southbank DistrictThe Southbank entertainment zone stretches along the Yarra River from Princes Bridge to the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
• Many of Melbourne's free attractions require some footwork, but you can give your feet a rest by riding one of the city's iconic trams.
• If you're searching for a peaceful spot to rest or simply want to admire some stunning architecture, Melbourne's churches and cathedrals are among the best locations to go.
• The Koorie Heritage Trust is an authentically immersive Aboriginal centre near Flinders Street Station in the Yarra Building at Federation Square.
• St Kilda, 6km (3.7mi) south-east of Melbourne, is a beautiful coastal respite from the metropolis.
• Views of Parliament House and St. Patrick's Cathedral can be enjoyed from Siglo, a chic bar serving various upscale beverages.
• The RAAF Museum, located near Point Cook, just 25 minutes from Melbourne, tells the story of Australian aviation and is open to the public at no cost.
• Daring architects are continually pushing the limits and expanding the cityscape in Melbourne.
• The city features a fascinating mix of modern, Victorian, and art deco styles.
• The Victorian Legislative Building is open to the public on days when lawmakers are in session as well as on days when they are not.
• Free public tours and viewing galleries are available for the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council .
• Festivals fill Melbourne's annual events calendar, and many feature free and paid performances.
• The largest free community festival in Australia takes place in March, and it's called Moomba.
• Melbourne, a city in the Australian state of Victoria, is famous for its nightlife, culture, and architecture.
• If you want to see some of the rainforests near Melbourne, a day trip on the Puffing Billy Railway is a terrific option.
• A lot of Melburnians like to take day trips to the Loch ard Gorge, which is conveniently located close to the city.
• Natural beauty and undulating hills and valleys characterise the Mornington Peninsula, a biosphere reserve in Melbourne.
• Many seasonal attractions on the Peninsula ensure that the Peninsula remains a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer.
• The Yarra Valley is another stunning tourist destination within a day's drive of Melbourne.
• Day trips from Melbourne can be made to Sovereign Hill, an outdoor museum presenting some of Australia's most interesting sights.
• The Twelve Apostles are a breathtaking natural wonder and, arguably, Australia's top coastal tourist attraction.
• The Twelve Apostles are a group of large limestone pillars on Australia's Gold Coast and are one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in the world.
• When planning a day trip from Melbourne, stop by the Phillip Island Tourist Parkland, a protected area that opened to the public in 1996.
• Phillip Island, a popular day trip destination from Melbourne, is home to the Phillip Island Tourist Park and many other attractions.
• The Great Ocean Road, one of the most famous routes in the world, is a three-day drive with breathtaking ocean vistas the whole way.
• On your journey back to the headquarters of the internationally renowned Rip Curl brand, stop through Torquay Surf City.
• As part of your day excursion from Melbourne, you can also stop by the site of the old London Bridge, which was destroyed in a flood in the nineteenth century.
• Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is where you'll find the picturesque road.10.
• Day visits to the Dandenong Ranges, a collection ranges of low mountains outside Melbourne, are highly recommended.
• If you want a fantastic vacation with your friends or family, then the Ranges is the place to go.