Melbourne’s got plenty going on, but sometimes the best part of your trip happens just outside the city. Think vineyard lunches, cliffside views, natural hot springs, and penguins waddling in at sunset. The good news? You can fit all that into a single day.

Whether you’re up for a road trip or prefer someone else behind the wheel, there’s no shortage of day tours or self-drive options—easy to book, even easier to enjoy.

Distance from Melbourne: About 3 hours

This iconic drive delivers wild coastlines, rainforest walks, and postcard stops like the Twelve Apostles. Along the way, you’ll pass through cute seaside towns packed with country bakeries and fish-and-chip shops. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to hit pause and take it all in.

Distance from Melbourne: About 1 hour

Rolling hills, boutique wineries, and fresh country air. The Yarra Valley is your go-to for wine tasting, long lunches, and chocolate stops. Within easy reach of the city, it’s an accessible wine yet feels a world away from the bustling CBD.

Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours

The biggest draw card to Phillip Island is watching the adorable penguin parate each night at sundown, but there’s plenty more to see and do on the island. Walk rugged coastal tracks, get up close with native wildlife, visit a winery or relax on the beach. Phillip Island is ideal for nature lovers of all ages.

Distance from Melbourne: About 1.5 hours

Looking for something slow-paced but still full of highlights? Mornington Peninsula has you covered. From scenic clifftops to cosy cellar doors, it’s perfect for a day of relaxing, sipping and soaking it all in. A true highlight is the Peninsula Hot Springs, where you can unwind and relax after exploring everything the Mornington has to offer.

Distance from Melbourne: About 1 hour

The Dandenong Ranges are an easy way to swap city streets for mountain air. Ride the Puffing Billy steam train, wander through towering trees, and stop in at cosy villages along the way. It’s not far from the Yarra Valley, too, so if you’re short on time you may be able to pack in both regions in one day.

Distance from Melbourne: About 3 hours

Some spots feel like they were made to stay a bit hidden. Wilsons Prom is one of them. The whole place leans into being wild and quiet, with white beaches, massive granite boulders and paths where you might, just quietly, pass a wombat or two.

Distance from Melbourne: About 3 hours

For big views, easy walks and a proper taste of the Aussie bush, the Grampians deliver. Think waterfalls, wildlife and lookouts that stretch for days. It’s the kind of day trip that feels like a real escape.

Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Stop for coffee, take the scenic route, or spend a bit longer at your favourite lookout. The Great Ocean Road is a classic self-drive, while Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula are ideal for food and wine days.

That said, tours are a great pick for places like Phillip Island, especially if you’re staying late for the Penguin Parade, or if you’d rather not worry about directions, traffic, or parking.

Whether you go guided or DIY, Traveloka makes it easy to book everything in one spot. Car hire? Sorted. Day tours? Too easy.