Top Day Trips from Melbourne | GoTravelDaily

Victoria may be perfectly suited to a great road trip, but visitors to Melbourne without their own set of wheels don’t have to miss out on experiencing the finest attractions this remarkable Australian state has to offer. Thanks to Melbourne’s excellent public transport connections, travelers can easily swap the hustle and bustle of city life for serene forest walking trails, rejuvenating spa towns, and charming steam train rides—without the hassle of finding parking. Here’s a guide to the best day trips from Melbourne.

1. Go for a Picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

Situated to the north of Melbourne, Hanging Rock is sacred to the Wurundjeri people and features a breathtaking geological formation resulting from a volcanic eruption. This mysterious landmark rose to fame through Joan Lindsay’s novel, which details the baffling disappearances of Victorian-era schoolgirls on Valentine’s Day in 1900, later adapted into a film and a 2018 TV series.

Hanging Rock is an ideal picnic spot. The Discovery Centre provides insights into the area’s history and geology, making it a perfect educational stop. After exploring, visitors can climb the path to the peak for stunning views. To refuel, consider stopping for a snack or a refreshing drink at a local establishment in Woodend on your return journey.

Getting to Hanging Rock from Melbourne: Trains operate to Woodend from Southern Cross Station in the city. From there, it’s an 8km (5 mile) walk or a quick cab ride to Hanging Rock Reserve.

2. Cycle or Walk the Warburton Rail Trail

Travel time: 1 hour

Once part of Victoria’s extensive passenger train network, many former rail corridors have been converted into “rail trails”—peaceful walking and cycling paths that meander through enchanting scenery. These routes are designed to be family-friendly and accessible to all.

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is particularly easy to reach from Melbourne. Spanning 38km (24 miles), it offers stunning views of farmlands, native forests, and the Yarra River, along with plenty of charming towns to explore, each with delightful food options. It’s advisable to bring your own snacks and water while traversing the main trail.

Getting to the Warburton Rail Trail from Melbourne: The trail begins in Lilydale, accessible by train from the city center. Bus services also connect Lilydale to Warburton, allowing visitors to hike shorter sections and return via bus as needed.

3. Off-Roading Adventures on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

Located just beyond the southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, French Island is a hidden gem within Western Port Bay. Initially named during a French exploring expedition in 1802, the island retains an air of intrigue among mainland residents.

With a majority of the island designated as a national park and no bridges or public transportation, reaching its captivating landscapes can be challenging. Regular tours, however, offer an adventurous way to explore the island using robust vehicles designed for off-road conditions. Highlights include visiting unique wetlands and spotting wildlife such as koalas.

Getting to French Island from Melbourne: First, take a suburban train to Frankston, where you can transfer to a V/Line train to Stony Point. The French Island ferry operates approximately every two hours, providing scenic transit to the island.

4. Step Back in Time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Ballarat was once the epicenter of the Gold Rush during the 1850s—an event of monumental significance in history. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in this vibrant history at Sovereign Hill, a meticulously reconstructed historical village showcasing life during the Gold Rush era, featuring authentic replica buildings.

Visitors can engage in activities such as gold panning and horse-drawn carriage rides, all while enjoying live performances from costumed actors depicting the era. For those with additional time, nearby attractions include wildlife parks and art galleries worth exploring.

Getting to Ballarat from Melbourne: Trains run directly from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Ballarat Station, making for a convenient travel option.

5. Soak in Mineral Springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Travel time: 2 hours

Revered as the “spa center of Victoria,” the towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are perfect getaways for Melburnians seeking relaxation. Set in the picturesque Central Highlands, this destination is famous for its mineral-rich waters and top-notch eateries, attracting visitors all year round.

The health benefits of the region’s mineral springs have drawn visitors since the 1870s. Today, you can enjoy various springs, bathhouses, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails throughout the area.

Getting to Daylesford from Melbourne: The fastest route involves taking a train from Southern Cross Station to Woodend, followed by a local bus to Daylesford.

6. Tour the Dandenongs on the Historic Puffing Billy Steam Train

Travel time: 1 hour

Experience a remarkable journey with the historic Puffing Billy steam train, an iconic attraction among Melburnians. This restored steam locomotive travels through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges on a five-hour round-trip route connecting Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park and Gembrook.

The train offers the unique option to hop on and off along the way, making it a favorite for families and train enthusiasts. Note that during extreme fire conditions, a diesel locomotive replaces the steam engine for safety reasons.

Getting to Puffing Billy Railway from Melbourne: The railway is easily accessible by taking a train from Parliament Station in central Melbourne to Belgrave Station.