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10-Day Melbourne & Surrounds Itinerary: Oct 12–21, 2025

Viewed by 209 travelers

Day 1: Cultural Embrace

Melbourne, Australia on October 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Enjoy French-inspired breakfast dishes and excellent coffee at this popular café to kick off your Melbourne visit.
AUD25, 1h30m

10:00AM

Explore Federation Square

Visit this central cultural hub with public art, events and access to galleries; it's a good first stop to feel the city's vibe.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:30PM

Lunch on Flinders Lane (Supernormal recommended)

Sample modern Asian-inspired dishes at Supernormal or choose from many nearby lunch spots on Flinders Lane.
AUD30, 1h30m

2:00PM

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Explore international and Australian art; the gallery typically opens 10:00AM–5:00PM and is a must-see for art lovers.
AUD0, 3h0m

5:00PM

Stroll along the Yarra River

A relaxing riverside walk for photos and to watch city life unwind at dusk.
AUD0, 1h0m

6:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Lively modern Thai restaurant popular with locals; expect bold flavors and a bustling atmosphere (reservations recommended).
AUD60, 2h0m
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Day 2: Markets & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on October 13, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Proud Mary

Renowned café in Collingwood for specialty coffee and a substantial breakfast to start the day.
AUD25, 1h30m

11:00AM

Queen Victoria Market

Explore this historic market for fresh produce, deli stalls and unique souvenirs; most stalls operate daytime hours (check seasonal schedules).
AUD0, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Market Lane Coffee

Grab a light lunch and excellent coffee inside or near the market — perfect for a quick refuel.
AUD20, 1h0m

2:00PM

Wander Melbourne's Laneways and Street Art

Discover Hosier Lane and hidden alleys filled with dynamic street art, boutique shops and cafés.
AUD0, 3h0m

5:30PM

Dinner at Mamasita

Contemporary Mexican dining and cocktails in a lively setting; bookings recommended at peak times.
AUD65, 2h0m
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Day 3: Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia on October 14, 2025

8:00AM

Depart for the Great Ocean Road

Set off early by rental car or guided tour for the iconic coastal drive — plan for multiple scenic stops and a full day out.
AUD100, 9h0m

11:00AM

Coffee stop at Anglesea

Stretch legs and enjoy a coffee in this relaxed surf town en route to the more dramatic coastal scenery.
AUD15, 1h0m

12:30PM

Lunch in Apollo Bay

Enjoy fresh local seafood or café fare while overlooking the ocean — a popular mid-route stop.
AUD35, 1h30m

2:00PM

Twelve Apostles lookout

View the famous limestone stacks from the designated viewing platforms — one of Victoria’s most photographed spots.
AUD0, 1h0m

4:00PM

Loch Ard Gorge

Walk to beaches and viewpoints within this dramatic coastal gorge; excellent for late-afternoon light and photos.
AUD0, 1h0m

5:30PM

Check into Port Campbell

Relax and freshen up at your accommodation in Port Campbell after a long day of driving and sightseeing.
AUD150, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Port Campbell Hotel

Casual pub dining with local options — a comfortable end to a big day exploring the coast.
AUD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Coastal Return

Great Ocean Road > Melbourne, Australia on October 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

A relaxed breakfast on-site to fuel another morning of scenic stops before returning to Melbourne.
AUD20, 1h0m

9:30AM

London Arch (formerly London Bridge)

Visit the coastal rock formation and nearby viewing platforms for more dramatic ocean scenery.
AUD0, 1h0m

11:00AM

Cape Otway Lighthouse

Explore the historic lighthouse and clifftop views (visitor hours typically mid-morning to late afternoon).
AUD20, 1h0m

1:00PM

Lunch back in Apollo Bay

Refuel with bakery treats or seafood at a beachfront café as you make your way back toward Melbourne.
AUD25, 1h30m

2:30PM

Otways National Park short hike

Enjoy a rainforest walk to waterfalls and native wildlife; trails vary from short loops to longer hikes.
AUD0, 2h0m

5:00PM

Drive return to Melbourne

Head back to the city (approximately 3 hours), arriving in the evening to rest or explore further.
AUD0, 3h0m

8:00PM

Dinner at Sette Pizza

Relax with authentic Neapolitan-style pizza in a popular inner-city spot.
AUD45, 1h30m
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Day 5: Phillip Island Wildlife

Phillip Island, Australia on October 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Melbourne café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast near your accommodation before driving to Phillip Island (plan departure around 9:00AM).
AUD20, 1h0m

9:30AM

Drive to Phillip Island

Scenic 2-hour drive from Melbourne to the island — aim to arrive mid-day for activities.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:00PM

Lunch in Cowes

Waterfront cafés in Cowes serve fresh seafood and casual lunches with bay views.
AUD35, 1h30m

1:30PM

Koala Conservation Centre

See koalas in their natural eucalypt habitat and learn about conservation; typically open daytime hours.
AUD15, 1h30m

3:00PM

The Nobbies boardwalks

Coastal boardwalks with rugged views and seal spotting from the clifftops on clear days.
AUD0, 1h0m

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cape Kitchen

Enjoy Modern Australian dishes with coastal views — a good prelude to the evening wildlife experience (book ahead).
AUD50, 1h30m

8:30PM

Penguin Parade (Sunset viewing)

Arrive before dusk to see little penguins waddle ashore at sunset — viewing times are seasonal so check exact showtimes and arrive early.
AUD40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Museums & Dining

Melbourne, Australia on October 17, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kettle Black

Stylish café known for innovative breakfast plates and excellent coffee in a bright space.
AUD30, 1h30m

11:00AM

Melbourne Museum

Comprehensive displays on natural history, First Peoples and cultural exhibitions; check opening hours (usually 10:00AM–5:00PM).
AUD15, 2h0m

1:30PM

Lunch at Carlton Wine Room

Seasonal share plates and quality wines in a relaxed Carlton setting near the museum.
AUD50, 1h30m

3:00PM

More street art & laneways

Further explore hidden alleys and evolving street art around the CBD for great photos and discoveries.
AUD0, 2h0m

5:30PM

Evening by Federation Wharf

Relax waterside with casual eateries and a pleasant atmosphere as the city lights come on.
AUD0, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Seasonal modern cuisine in an elegant, yet relaxed dining room — a great spot for a memorable meal.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 7: Gardens & Wine

Melbourne > Yarra Valley, Australia on October 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Grain Store

Hearty, wholesome breakfast in a cozy inner-city venue to start a day of gardens and vineyards.
AUD25, 1h30m

10:00AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll diverse plantings, lakes and themed gardens; a peaceful green escape close to the CBD.
AUD0, 2h0m

12:30PM

Lunch at Miss Kays

Relaxed modern Australian eats with a friendly vibe; perfect for a weekend-style lunch.
AUD35, 1h30m

2:00PM

Drive to Yarra Valley for wine tasting

Short scenic drive (about 1 hour); enjoy tastings at boutique and well-known wineries — many offer 1–3 tasting flights.
AUD50, 3h0m

5:30PM

Dinner at Oakridge Wines

Enjoy a fine vineyard dinner with contemporary dishes that showcase local produce and house wines.
AUD80, 2h0m
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Day 8: Yarra Valley Full Day

Yarra Valley, Australia on October 19, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at B36 / B35 Restaurant (Yarra Valley)

Savour a morning meal with vineyard views — many valley restaurants open for leisurely breakfasts on weekends.
AUD30, 1h30m

10:30AM

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Sample hand-made chocolates, watch production demonstrations and browse sweet treats; open daily but check seasonal hours.
AUD0, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Yering Station

Historic winery restaurant serving seasonal fare with vineyard vistas — a great spot for a long lunch.
AUD60, 1h30m

3:00PM

Healesville Sanctuary

Up-close encounters with native Australian wildlife and conservation exhibits; typically open through the afternoon.
AUD35, 2h0m

5:30PM

Dinner at The Grand Hotel (Healesville)

Historic pub dining with local favorites — a relaxed end to a food-and-wine filled day.
AUD40, 1h30m
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Day 9: Shopping & Tea

Melbourne, Australia on October 20, 2025

9:00AM

Brunch at The Kettle Black

Return to the city for a stylish brunch in a popular café known for its innovative breakfast dishes.
AUD30, 1h30m

11:00AM

Shop Bourke Street Mall and nearby arcades

Explore major retailers and charming arcades like the Block Arcade and Royal Arcade for souvenirs and local finds.
AUD0, 2h0m

1:30PM

Lunch at The Hotel Windsor

Enjoy a refined lunch at this historic hotel, known for classic dining and a genteel atmosphere.
AUD50, 1h30m

3:00PM

Visit the State Library of Victoria

Admire the grand La Trobe Reading Room and rotating exhibitions in this cultural landmark.
AUD0, 1h30m

5:00PM

Afternoon Tea at The Tea Room

Treat yourself to pastries and fine teas in a luxurious setting, ideal for a relaxed late-afternoon pause.
AUD35, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Press Club

Contemporary Greek fine dining with artistic presentations — a memorable final dinner in the city.
AUD70, 2h0m
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Day 10: Last Day Highlights

Melbourne, Australia on October 21, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Enjoy a final Melbourne breakfast at this vibrant, well-regarded café known for creative brunch dishes.
AUD30, 1h30m

11:00AM

Royal Exhibition Building & Carlton Gardens

Visit this World Heritage-listed building and stroll the surrounding gardens — typically open for visits during the day.
AUD0, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at The Conservatory (or similar garden restaurant)

A relaxed seasonal lunch near the gardens to reflect on your trip and enjoy local produce.
AUD50, 1h30m

2:30PM

Last-minute shopping at Emporium Melbourne

Pick up souvenirs, gifts and essentials at this central shopping complex before you depart.
AUD0, 2h0m

5:00PM

Departure from Melbourne

Make your way to the airport or onward transport with time to spare; allow extra time for traffic and check-in.
AUD0, Variable
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