Start with coffee and pastries at Adelaide Central Market for a quick, fresh breakfast and to pick up picnic snacks; the market is lively on weekdays. Check stall hours (many open from 7:00–3:00).
Drive southeast via Dukes Highway then coastal approach to Robe for a stretch and seaside photos; Robe is a pleasant lunch stop about 3 hours from Adelaide. Road time gives coastal scenery—allow time for short walks.
Visit the iconic Blue Lake lookout and nearby Centenary Tower for panoramic views — the lake viewing areas are open daily (lookouts accessible at all hours; visitor centre usually 9:00–5:00).
Enjoy hearty regional produce and local wine at a popular Mount Gambier bistro; restaurants generally open for dinner from 5:30pm. Book ahead in peak season.
Head west/north-west toward the Great Ocean Road entry points; stop at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve (near Warrnambool) to see koalas and emus — reserve access open daylight hours.
Port Fairy is a charming heritage town with excellent cafes and pub lunches; a good place to refuel before continuing along the coast. Cafés typically open midday.
Continue east along the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles viewing platforms; lookouts are accessible sunrise to sunset (allow time for short walks and photo stops).
Dine in central Melbourne: try Supernormal for modern Asian or Chin Chin for a vibrant menu — both are popular and often open late (bookings recommended).
Explore Federation Square then choose ACMI (digital culture) or NGV (art) — galleries typically open 10:00–17:00, so plan exhibitions accordingly and check specific opening days.
Sample varied street food and local produce at Queen Victoria Market; the main market is normally open mid-morning to early afternoon (check seasonal hours).
Stroll the Royal Botanic Gardens and visit the Shrine for city views and tranquillity; gardens open from early morning until sunset and are free to enter.
Choose an iconic Lygon Street trattoria for classic Italian fare or head to a contemporary hotspot in the CBD; expect dinner service from 5:30–10:00pm.
Stretch legs in historic Glenrowan, view murals and the Kelly siege site; attractions mostly outdoors and accessible daily but small museums may have limited hours.
Arrive Canberra and have lunch at Kingston Foreshore or in the city centre, both offering riverside dining and varied menus; many eateries open through lunch.
Visit the Australian War Memorial for its museum galleries, commemorative spaces and daily Last Post Ceremony (museum open 10:00–17:00 — check ceremony time on site).
Walk around the Opera House and explore the Royal Botanic Gardens adjacent to the harbour; gardens open early morning until sunset and forecourt is always accessible.
Choose Opera Bar for casual harbour-side dining or Mr. Wong for a high-quality Cantonese experience; both operate dinner service into the evening (book ahead).
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Grounds, a popular spot with a garden setting; they open early (check exact opening times) and it’s a great way to start the day.
Do the scenic Bondi–Coogee coastal walk (approx 6km) for coastal cliffs, beaches and rock pools; the walk is public access and best started early to avoid crowds.
Take the ferry to Taronga Zoo for animals and panoramic city views — the zoo typically opens 9:30–17:00 (check seasonal times) so plan the afternoon visit accordingly.
Return to the city for dinner in Darling Harbour where many waterfront restaurants operate into the evening; choose seafood or contemporary cuisines and enjoy harbour lights.
Enjoy a calm evening dinner by the Murray River at a riverside restaurant or pub; many venues open for dinner from 5:30pm and reservations are recommended on weekends.
Arrive back in Adelaide in the evening (arrival time dependent on stops). Return the hire car (if applicable) and enjoy a final stroll or dinner at a neighbourhood restaurant.
Finish the loop with dinner at a friendly Adelaide bistro or wine bar, celebrating the completion of the coastal and inland drive; most city restaurants open evenings from 5:30pm.