Victoria is a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure, only with better coffee. One minute you’re hiking granite peaks in the Grampians, the next you’re sipping wine at cellar doors in the Yarra Valley or soaking in mineral springs on the Mornington Peninsula.

She delivers variety without the long drive: cities that hum, coasts that clear your head, and country towns built for slowing down.

Whether you’re plotting a big getaway blowout or just a few days off the spend (and out of the office), here are six places worth the trip (or the repeat visit).

Best for: Foodies, culture crawlers, and city-break types

Laneways, live music, rooftop bars and dumplings at midnight — Melbourne does moody and magnetic in equal parts. You’ll find street art, world-class coffee, and enough festivals to fill your calendar twice over.

Best for: Road-trippers, surf-watchers and coastal explorers

Wind your way past cliffs, gum trees and sea spray along this iconic stretch of road from Torquay to Allansford. There are misty rainforests, surf spots, bakeries, lookouts, and the kind of pit stops you’ll talk about long after you’re back.

Best for: Wine weekenders, spa sippers and balloon-chasers

An hour out of the city, the Yarra swaps high-rises for hills. It’s cellar doors and gin tastings, dairy farms and forest drives. Stay the night, breathe slower, and toast your good planning with a local pinot.

Best for: Beach walkers, spa types and lunch-with-a-view people

Mornington delivers sun, salt, and cellar doors — all without the big crowd energy. You’ll find coastal trails, farmers' markets, thermal springs, and wine tastings with sea views. Come midweek and it feels like you’ve got the place to yourself.

Best for: Hikers, campers and star-watchers

Known as Gariwerd to Traditional Owners, this rugged national park is full of stories and views. Waterfalls, rock faces, and ancient art sites are linked by trails that’ll work up a sweat — and reward you with big-sky sunsets.

Best for: Couples, slow movers and spa types

This spa region is all about floaty robes, full plates and forest air. You’ll find art studios, produce markets, vintage shops and lakeside walks — with a soak, scrub or massage never far away.