11-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Melbourne, Australia (December)

Day 1: Arrival in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

10:00AM

Explore Federation Square

Start your adventure at Federation Square, a cultural precinct full of art galleries, museums, and holiday decorations.
Located in the city centre, easily accessible.
AUD0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Breakfast at Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart

Enjoy a delicious cheese tart breakfast with coffee to energize yourself for the day ahead.
A 10-minute walk from Federation Square.
AUD30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Savor a variety of local and international dishes while exploring the bustling market adorned with festive holiday lights.
Drive or take a tram, about 10 minutes.
AUD40, 2 hours

3:00PM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Wander through the lush gardens, perfect for a family picnic amidst the colorful blooms of the season.
15-minute drive from Queen Victoria Market.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Southbank Promenade

Dine on the riverside with a variety of restaurants to choose from offering stunning views of the city lights and decorations for the holiday season.
10-minute drive from Botanic Gardens.
AUD100, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening stroll along Yarra River

Wind down your day with a scenic walk along the river, enjoying the festive lights reflecting on the water.
Walking distance from dinner.
AUD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Melbourne City Adventures

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Relish a French-inspired breakfast in this cozy café.
Located in the CBD, approximately 10 minutes drive.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Melbourne Zoo

Spend a thrilling morning at the zoo watching Australian wildlife and enjoying the festive decorations throughout.
15-minute drive from Hardware Société.
AUD60, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fitzroy Street

Explore the vibrant cafés where you can find amazing sandwiches and fresh juices in a lively holiday atmosphere.
20-minute drive from the zoo.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Immerse in Scienceworks

Check out the interactive exhibits at this science museum, suitable for children of all ages and especially festive during December.
15-minute drive from Fitzroy Street.
AUD40, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Naked for Satan

Enjoy a taste of Spanish tapas in a quirky rooftop setting that is festive and offers great city views.
A 10-minute drive.
AUD80, 2 hours

7:30PM

ArtVo - Immersive Art Gallery

Experience the unique 3D art experience where you're encouraged to become part of the artwork, great for family fun during the holiday season.
A short drive, about 5 minutes.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Great Ocean Road Begins

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Start your day with a hearty, creative breakfast in South Melbourne before hitting the road.
20-minute drive from the hotel in Melbourne.
AUD40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Torquay

Begin your scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, known for its breathtaking coastal views, decorated with summer vibrancy.
2 hours drive from Melbourne.
AUD0, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Torquay Beach

Spend a little time at Torquay Beach, perfect for a family swim and beach activities in December’s warm weather.
Short walk from the parking area.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Torquay Hotel

Enjoy casual dining and local favorites overlooking the beach while taking in the summer atmosphere.
Very close to Torquay Beach.
AUD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Drive to Lorne, stopping at scenic lookout spots

Enjoy the beautiful coastal views while taking pictures at various lookouts along the way, ideal for summer days.
30-minute drive from Torquay.
AUD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lorne Beach & Ice Cream

Relax at Lorne Beach and indulge in ice cream from the famous Lorne Beach Pavilion while enjoying the warm weather.
Directly accessible from the main road.
AUD20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Lorne Hotel

Choose from a range of meals while enjoying ocean views and the cozy summer ambiance.
Just a stone’s throw from Lorne Beach.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Relax for the night in a family-friendly hotel or cabin near Lorne.
A 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
AUD200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore The Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Fuel up for a day exploring with a simple breakfast at your hotel or cabin.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Apollo Bay

Continue your Great Ocean Road adventure as you travel to Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town perfect for summer fun.
35-minute drive from Lorne.
AUD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Apollo Bay Beach

Relax at the beach or take a walk in the picturesque town of Apollo Bay, enjoying the warm December sun.
Accessible immediately upon arrival.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay Hotel

Taste regional seafood dishes at this delightful hotel with stunning views surrounded by summer activity.
Walking distance from the beach.
AUD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Experience the breathtaking sites of the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean under the bright summer sun.
1-hour drive from Apollo Bay.
AUD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Loch Ard Gorge

Explore the beautiful cove with dramatic cliffs and learn about the famous shipwreck, perfect for family photos in the warm weather.
10-minute drive from the Twelve Apostles.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Grotto Beach Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with stunning views of the ocean at The Grotto, ideal on a summer evening.
A 15-minute drive from Loch Ard Gorge.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Settle down for the night at a cozy seaside cabin or hotel.
30-minute drive from The Grotto.
AUD200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Phillip Island Adventure

Phillip Island, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Grotto

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to prepare for your day ahead.
Onsite.
AUD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive from Great Ocean Road to Phillip Island

Travel to Phillip Island, known for its stunning beaches and wildlife experiences, especially lively in December.
2-hour drive from your accommodation.
AUD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Philip Island Wildlife Park

Meet Australian wildlife at this interactive park, where the kids can feed kangaroos and enjoy the summer atmosphere.
Accessible from the main road.
AUD60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cowes Beach

Relax while enjoying lunch at a café with a view of the beach featuring a busy holiday vibe.
A short drive from the Wildlife Park.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Penguin Parade

Experience the famous Penguin Parade at sunset, as little penguins return to shore after a day at sea.
15-minute drive from Cowes Beach.
AUD40, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cape Kitchen

Delight in seasonal dishes sourced from the region overlooking the water in a festive setup.
20-minute drive from Penguin Parade.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Rest up for an exciting day at a local hotel or cottage.
A short drive from dinner.
AUD150, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Mornington Peninsula Relaxation

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or cottage before heading out.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mornington Peninsula

Travel to Mornington Peninsula, famous for its hot springs, beaches, and vibrant summer attractions.
Approximately 1-hour drive.
AUD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Mornington Peninsula Bathing Boxes

Explore the colorful bathing boxes by the beach, perfect for family photos in the sun.
Located along the coastline.
AUD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at D.O.C. Pizza & Mozzarella Bar

Indulge in delicious pizza at this popular local spot with outdoor seating for warm weather.
Just a 15-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Enchanted Adventure Garden

Experience treetop adventures, mazes, and slides, perfect for families while enjoying the December heat.
15-minute drive from lunch.
AUD100, 3 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Point Nepean National Park

Take a peaceful walk and enjoy beautiful coastal views, refreshing during the summer bloom.
35-minute drive from the adventure park.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Portsea Hotel

Enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views of the ocean, perfect for a summer evening gathering.
A 20-minute drive from the national park.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Settle down for a cozy night’s rest in a family-friendly hotel.
About 10-minute drive from dinner.
AUD150, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

A quick breakfast to kickstart the day.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Melbourne

Head back to Melbourne, taking in the sights one last time as you travel through the vibrant summer landscapes.
1 hour drive.
AUD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Melbourne Museum

Discover interactive exhibits designed especially for kids, enjoyable during the summer break.
Located in Carlton.
AUD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lygon Street

Explore Melbourne's 'Little Italy' with plenty of dining options, busy with summer festivities.
15-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Royal Exhibition Building

Wander around this stunning World Heritage-listed building surrounded by blooming summer gardens.
A short walk from Lygon Street.
AUD0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Collins Street

Stroll through Collins Street, known for its high-end boutiques, bustling with shoppers and cheer.
A quick drive from the exhibition building.
AUD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Experience modern Thai cuisine at one of Melbourne’s most popular restaurants, ideal for summer evenings.
5-minute drive.
AUD100, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening at Eureka Skydeck

End your day with panoramic views of the city from the tallest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly vibrant during December.
10-minute drive from dinner.
AUD70, 1 hour
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Day 8: Dandenong Ranges Excursion

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

A quick breakfast to kickstart your day filled with exploration.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Dandenong Ranges

Make your way to the Dandenong Ranges, known for its lush forests and cooler temperatures in the summer month of December.
1-hour drive.
AUD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Puffing Billy Railway

Take a ride on the historic steam train through the stunning rainforest, a delight under the summer sun.
Located in Belgrave.
AUD60, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The General Food Co

Savor a delicious farm-to-table lunch in Emerald with fresh, local ingredients, perfect for a summer meal.
A 15-minute drive from the train station.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit William Ricketts Sanctuary

Stroll through the unique gardens and sculptures surrounded by enchanting forest, great for enjoying the summer warmth.
20-minute drive from lunch.
AUD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Olinda Village & Gardens

Wander through charming boutique shops and explore the abundant gardens, blooming beautifully in December.
20-minute drive from the sanctuary.
AUD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Olinda’s Silvan Ridge

End your day with local wines and a nourishing dinner under the evening sky.
A quick 5-minute drive.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Settle down in a forest cabin or charming hotel for the night.
10 minutes away by car.
AUD150, 1 hour
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Day 9: Wine Tasting in Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Enjoy a filling breakfast before hitting the road for Yarra Valley.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Yarra Valley

Experience the scenic drive filled with stunning countryside views, especially beautiful during the summer.
A 1-hour drive.
AUD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Yering Station

Participate in a family-friendly vineyard tour and enjoy tastings in a beautiful summer setting.
Located in the heart of Yarra Valley.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Greenhouse

Try seasonal dishes paired with wine at this sustainably sourced restaurant, featuring summer ingredients.
Just 10 minutes drive.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Healesville Sanctuary

Explore this wildlife park that focuses on Australian native animals, a great outing during the summer break.
15-minute drive from lunch.
AUD60, 2.5 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Indulge in some sweet treats at this popular chocolate factory, perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
10-minute drive from Healesville.
AUD20, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Innocent Bystander

Savor local dishes in an inviting atmosphere with a farm-to-table approach—ideal for summer gatherings.
A 10-minute drive.
AUD80, 2 hours

7:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Spend the night at a charming guest house or vineyard lodge.
20-minute drive.
AUD150, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Melbourne City Experience

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hardware Société

Enjoy unique dishes with a cozy ambiance in the heart of the city, vibrant during December.
A short drive back from Yarra Valley.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Melbourne Aquarium

Discover marine life and interactive exhibits that will thrill the kids during these warm, sunny days.
Just a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
AUD60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Docklands

Dine by the water while enjoying a variety of dining options, perfect for catching the summer breeze.
A short drive from the aquarium.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Victoria Market for Souvenirs

Shop for local products and souvenirs amidst the bustling holiday market atmosphere.
Return to the market area, 15-minute drive.
AUD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Continue your marine adventure with even more fascinating exhibits, suitable to cool off from the summer heat.
Walking distance from Victoria Market.
AUD60, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Attica

End your day with a memorable dining experience at one of Australia’s top restaurants, ideal for a special occasion.
A 15-minute drive.
AUD150, 2 hours
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Day 11: Departure

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Finalize your trip with a final breakfast together as a family, reflecting on the beautiful memories.
Onsite.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check Out and Depart

Enjoy any last-minute souvenirs or snacks before heading to the airport or your next adventure.
Short drive or shuttle to the airport depending on accommodation.
AUD0, 2 hours
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