How many days do you need in Melbourne Australia?

This itinerary covers 12 days in Melbourne Australia, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Melbourne Australia?

Plan your perfect 12 days trip to Melbourne Australia. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Melbourne to Sydney: 12 Days of Adventure in Australia

Day 1: Explore Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breaky’s on Leicester

Kickoff your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular café known for its avocado toast and organic coffee.

AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll around these beautifully landscaped gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Melbourne.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Southbank

Enjoy lunch at one of the riverside restaurants, with a view of the Yarra River.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Federation Square & ACMI

Visit this cultural precinct and explore the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Melbourne Laneways

Wander through Melbourne’s famous laneways and discover hidden street art, café culture, and unique shops.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Enjoy a modern Thai dinner at this bustling restaurant famous for its vibrant atmosphere.

AUD50, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Top Paddock

Start your day with an innovative breakfast menu in this trendy café.

AUD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

National Gallery of Victoria

Explore Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, featuring international and local artworks.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Melbourne Central

Enjoy lunch in this major shopping centre with plenty of food options.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Melbourne Zoo

Visit the Melbourne Zoo to see native and exotic animals in naturalistic settings.

AUD40, 3 hours

5:00PM

Queen Victoria Market

Wander the market stalls, sample food, and shop for souvenirs.

Free entry, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Savour a contemporary dining experience at this renowned restaurant in the CBD.

AUD55, 2 hours

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Day 3: Outdoors & Nature

Melbourne, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Hardware Société

Indulge in a French-inspired breakfast at this charming café.

AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Dandenong Ranges National Park

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and scenic walking trails in this beautiful national park.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at SkyHigh Mount Dandenong

Experience stunning views paired with a delicious lunch at this mountaintop restaurant.

AUD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Healesville Sanctuary

Meet native Australian animals up close in this wildlife sanctuary.

AUD38, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Head back to relax and prepare for dinner.

Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Attica

Dine at one of the world’s best restaurants, celebrated for its innovative Australian cuisine.

AUD250, 2 hours

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Day 4: Ballarat Day Trip

Ballarat, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Bella

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore Ballarat.

AUD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sovereign Hill

Step back in time and experience the gold rush era in this outdoor museum.

AUD38, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Red Stag Restaurant

Relish a wonderful lunch in a rustic setting near Sovereign Hill.

AUD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Get close to kangaroos, koalas, and other Australian wildlife.

AUD30, 2 hours

4:00PM

Ballarat Art Gallery

Explore one of Australia's oldest galleries featuring both local and international artists.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Forge Pizzeria

Enjoy a casual dinner with gourmet pizzas made from fresh ingredients.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Melbourne

Head back to Melbourne by train to unwind after an exciting day.

AUD10, 1 hour

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Day 5: Philip Island Adventure

Philip Island, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cape Kitchen

Enjoy early morning breakfast overlooking the coastal views.

AUD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Explore the stunning coastal scenery and perhaps see some wildlife.

AUD18, 2 hours

11:30AM

Penguin Parade

Experience the famous Penguin Parade as little penguins return to shore at sunset. (Book in advance)

AUD40, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Cowes Pizza

Savour some great pizzas at this popular local spot.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Koala Reserve

See koalas in their natural habitat in this special reserve.

AUD20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Penguin Parade

Get ready for the magical evening to witness the Penguin Parade.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre

Enjoy a meal before witnessing the adorable parade.

AUD35, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Promontory, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Prom Café

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before a day of exploring the stunning national park.

AUD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hike to Squeaky Beach

Enjoy a scenic hike to Squeaky Beach known for its fine white sand.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for kangaroos and emus in their natural habitat within the park.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tidal River Café

Enjoy a casual lunch with stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

AUD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore more hiking trails

Discover diverse landscapes; choose from several well-marked trails.

Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Head back to Melbourne

Ease back into Melbourne after a day of adventure.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Flower Drum

Indulge in a delightful dinner at this award-winning Cantonese restaurant.

AUD95, 2 hours

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Day 7: Travel to Albury

Albury, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Union Cafe

Enjoy a lovely breakfast at this local favourite before heading out.

AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Albury

Set off for the 3-hour drive to Albury, enjoying the scenic countryside.

Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Three Stacks

Stop in Albury for a delicious lunch at this award-winning BBQ joint.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Albury Botanic Gardens

Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque Albury Botanic Gardens.

Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Murray Art Museum Albury

Discover contemporary art exhibits in this modern museum.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Bended Elbow

Enjoy a hearty pub-style dinner at this local favourite.

AUD35, 1.5 hours

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Day 8: Canberra Exploration

Canberra, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Tempting Taste

A delightful breakfast before embarking on a day filled with exploration.

AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Canberra

Travel to Canberra, Australia's capital city, and admire the picturesque landscapes.

Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cupping Room

Experience delicious brunch options in this popular café known for its coffee.

AUD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Australian War Memorial

Visit this iconic memorial dedicated to Australian service members.

Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Parliament House

Explore Australia’s Parliament House and its beautiful architecture.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Boat House

Enjoy riverside dining with stunning views at this acclaimed restaurant.

AUD60, 2 hours

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Day 9: Journey to Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little Bird Café

Enjoy breakfast at this charming café before your journey to Sydney.

AUD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sydney

Set off for Sydney on a 3-hour drive, filled with excitement for the bustling city.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sydney Fish Markets

Indulge in fresh seafood at this renowned market, sampling from various stalls.

AUD40, 2 hours

3:00PM

Sydney Opera House Tour

Take a guided tour of this iconic architectural masterpiece.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore The Rocks District

Stroll through this historic area filled with shops, cafés, and local events.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Aria

Enjoy a fine dining experience with sweeping views of the harbour at Aria.

AUD90, 2 hours

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Day 10: Sydney Sightseeing

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Have a wonderful breakfast at this idyllic café set in a garden.

AUD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Taronga Zoo

Visit this stunning zoo that offers amazing views of the city.

AUD42, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Dine with a view after an exciting morning at the zoo.

AUD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bondi Beach

Take a leisurely afternoon at the iconic Bondi Beach, soaking up the sun.

Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore Bondi to Coogee Walk

Experience one of Sydney's most famous coastal walks with scenic views.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Relish a meal with stunning ocean views at this bustling venue.

AUD80, 2 hours

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Day 11: More Sydney Adventures

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Sydney

Indulge in breakfast with a gorgeous view of the harbour.

AUD40, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Blue Mountains Day Trip

Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Blue Mountains for a hike and exploration.

AUD100, 8 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Carrington

End your day with a relaxing dinner at The Carrington, a historic hotel in the mountains.

AUD60, 2 hours

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Day 12: Farewell Sydney

Sydney, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Devon Café

Enjoy your last breakfast at this stylish café known for its innovative menu.

AUD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-minute shopping at Pitt Street Mall

Shop for souvenirs and gifts before departing Australia.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Miss Gibbles Café

Savour a final lunch with delicious dishes at this beloved café.

AUD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check-out & Depart

Check-out from your accommodation and prepare for your onward journey.

Free, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Sydney

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Melbourne to Sydney: 12 Days of Adventure in Australia

Day 1: Explore Melbourne

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Melbourne

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Outdoors & Nature

7:30AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Ballarat Day Trip

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 5: Philip Island Adventure

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Wilsons Promontory National Park

7:00AM

8:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 7: Travel to Albury

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

Day 8: Canberra Exploration

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

Day 9: Journey to Sydney

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 10: Sydney Sightseeing

8:00AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 11: More Sydney Adventures

8:00AM

9:30AM

6:30PM

Day 12: Farewell Sydney