Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Ultimate 14-Day Australia Road Trip: Melbourne to Sydney

Viewed by 738 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Kick off your trip with a delightful French-style breakfast before exploring the city.
Taxi to the café (15 min).
AUD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Federation Square

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Federation Square, filled with galleries and shops.
10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and relax by the lake.
Taxi to the gardens (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Flinders Lane

Indulge in delicious international cuisine at one of Flinders Lane's trendy eateries.
15-minute walk from the gardens.
AUD40, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Check-in at the Hotel

Get settled at your accommodation and freshen up.
Short drive to the hotel.
AUD150 (hotel), 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Savor contemporary Thai dishes in an energetic atmosphere that reflects Melbourne's vibrant dining scene.
Taxi to restaurant (10 min).
AUD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 2: Melbourne Sightseeing

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Delight in award-winning brunch options at this beautifully designed café.
Taxi to the café (15 min).
AUD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Melbourne Zoo

Spend the morning exploring the diverse range of wildlife at Melbourne Zoo.
Taxi to the zoo (15 min).
AUD40, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Melbourne Central

Grab a quick lunch at one of the many eateries located inside this bustling shopping mall.
Taxi to Melbourne Central (15 min).
AUD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Hosier Lane

Wander through the street filled with vibrant street artwork and cultural expressions.
Short walk from Melbourne Central.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping on Chapel Street

Discover boutique shops and lively cafés along the trendy Chapel Street.
Taxi to Chapel Street (15 min).
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Naked for Satan

Enjoy a lively dining experience with a range of pintxos (Basque tapas) and rooftop views.
Taxi to the restaurant (15 min).
AUD45, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 3: Great Ocean Road Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Have breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Depart for Great Ocean Road

Take off for the stunning coastal drive along the Great Ocean Road.
Drive towards the Great Ocean Road (1-hour drive to start point).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Witness the breathtaking limestone stacks at this iconic landmark along the coast.
Drive to the Twelve Apostles (1.5 hours).
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Port Campbell

Enjoy fresh seafood at a cozy café in Port Campbell.
Short drive to Port Campbell (15 min).
AUD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Loch Ard Gorge

Discover the beautiful scenery and dramatic cliffs with a walk through the gorge.
Drive to Loch Ard Gorge (15 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Continue to Apollo Bay

Drive along the picturesque coast, taking in the beautiful scenery.
Drive to Apollo Bay (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Check-in at Apollo Bay Accommodation

Arrive at your accommodation and unwind.
At Apollo Bay.
AUD150 (hotel), 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Apollo Bay Hotel

Enjoy a casual dinner with local flavors in this cozy setting.
Short walk from the hotel.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Great Ocean Road

Day 4: Grampians National Park Exploration

Grampians National Park, Australia

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Café

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café in Apollo Bay.
Walk to nearby café.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Grampians National Park

Head towards Grampians National Park for a day of exploration.
Drive to Grampians (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit MacKenzie Falls

Marvel at the beautiful waterfall and scenic walks in the park.
Drive from park entrance (30 min).
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Grampians National Park Café

Enjoy a café meal surrounded by nature.
At the park.
AUD30, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore the Pinnacles Lookout

Hike to Pinnacles Lookout for breathtaking views of the Grampians.
Drive to the trailhead (30 min).
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Drive to Ballarat

Head to the historic town of Ballarat for the evening.
Drive to Ballarat (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Forge Pizzeria

Dine at a local favorite offering delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Short walk from the hotel.
AUD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Grampians National Park

Day 5: Ballarat and Sovereign Hill

Ballarat, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a generous breakfast at your hotel.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Sovereign Hill

Delve into Australia's gold rush history at this open-air museum.
Drive to Sovereign Hill (15 min).
AUD40, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Sovereign Hill Café

Enjoy a hearty lunch while overlooking the historical village.
Within Sovereign Hill complex.
AUD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Relax in the beautiful gardens and enjoy the scenic lake views.
Drive to the gardens (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park

Get up close and personal with native Australian animals.
Drive to the wildlife park (15 min).
AUD30, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Drive to Melbourne

Return to Melbourne for the evening.
Drive back to Melbourne (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Lygon Street

Indulge in Italian cuisine at this famous food street in Melbourne.
Short walk from hotel.
AUD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ballarat

Day 6: Drive from Melbourne to Sydney

Sydney, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before the long drive.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Begin Drive to Sydney

Embark on your scenic road trip to Sydney via Hume Highway.
Drive to Sydney (9 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 9 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch in Goulburn

Stop for lunch at a local café in Goulburn, a good midway point.
Drive to Goulburn (2 hours from Melbourne).
AUD35, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Continue to Sydney

Complete the drive with excitement for your Sydney adventure.
Drive to Sydney (2.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 2.5 hours

4:30 PM

Check-in at Sydney Accommodation

Settle into your hotel and refresh.
At Sydney.
AUD150 (hotel), 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Darling Harbour

Enjoy waterfront dining at one of the many restaurants in Darling Harbour.
Taxi to Darling Harbour (15 min).
AUD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 7: Explore Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Relish delicious breakfast options in a unique garden setting.
Drive to the café (15 min).
AUD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Sydney Opera House Tour

Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, gaining insight into its architectural brilliance.
Drive to the Opera House (15 min).
AUD42, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden

Enjoy a relaxing walk in this expansive city garden with stunning views.
Short walk from the Opera House.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb Café

Refuel with views of the harbor as you enjoy lighter fare.
10-minute walk from the gardens.
AUD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Experience breathtaking views as you take on the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Walk back to the bridge (10 min).
AUD345, 3.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Rocks

Enjoy dinner in the historic precinct of The Rocks with great food options.
Walk to The Rocks (15 min).
AUD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 8: Blue Mountains Day Trip

Blue Mountains, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Eat a hearty breakfast before your day trip.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Blue Mountains

Set out for a scenic drive to the stunning Blue Mountains.
Drive to Katoomba (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Three Sisters Lookout

Bask in the stunning view of the Three Sisters rock formation.
Drive from Katoomba Station (10 min).
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Hiking at Scenic World

Explore the scenic beauty through Scenic World’s walking trails.
Drive to Scenic World (15 min).
AUD45, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Scenic World Café

Enjoy casual dining surrounded by breathtaking nature.
At Scenic World.
AUD40, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Govetts Leap

Visit the lookout for spectacular valley views in the Blue Mountains.
Drive to Govetts Leap (30 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Sydney

Head back to Sydney after a beautiful day in nature.
Drive back to Sydney (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Sydney Tower Eye

End your day with dinner at a restaurant with stunning panoramic city views.
Drive to Sydney Tower (15 min).
AUD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Blue Mountains

Day 9: South Coast Adventure

South Coast, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Indulge in breakfast at your hotel before the south coast trip.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Kiama

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to Kiama.
Drive to Kiama (2 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the Kiama Blowhole

Marvel at the natural wonder as the ocean surges through the blowhole.
Sightseeing stop in Kiama.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Kiama

Savor a seaside lunch at a local café.
In Kiama.
AUD30, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Jamberoo Action Park

Spend the day at this fun-filled water park featuring rides and slides.
Drive to Jamberoo (15 min).
AUD50, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Sydney

Drive back to Sydney after a fun-filled day.
Drive back to Sydney (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Surry Hills

Enjoy a dinner of modern Australian cuisine in one of Sydney's trendiest neighborhoods.
Drive to Surry Hills (15 min).
AUD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in South Coast

Day 10: Wollongong Day Trip

Wollongong, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Wollongong

Drive down the coastal road to Wollongong for a day of adventure.
Drive to Wollongong (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the Wollongong Lighthouse

Take pictures at this historic lighthouse with beautiful ocean views.
Sightseeing stop in Wollongong.
Free, 30 min

11:00 AM

Explore the Wollongong Art Gallery

Discover local and contemporary artworks at this charming gallery.
10-minute drive from the lighthouse.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Northbeach Cafe

Enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the beach.
Walk to the café (5 min).
AUD35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Relax at Wollongong Beach

Unwind at one of the city's beautiful beaches.
Back to the beach (5 min walk).
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Sydney

Make your way back to Sydney after a relaxing day by the beach.
Drive back to Sydney (1.5 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Quay

Indulge in a fine dining experience with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour.
Drive to The Rocks (15 min).
AUD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wollongong

Day 11: Kangaroo Valley Exploration

Kangaroo Valley, Australia

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading out for the day.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Drive to Kangaroo Valley

Make your way to the picturesque Kangaroo Valley.
Drive to Kangaroo Valley (2 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 2 hours

10:30 AM

Hiking at Morton National Park

Explore the stunning trails and wildlife in the national park.
Drive to the park (30 min).
Free, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Kangaroo Valley Café

Grab a rewarding lunch at a local café in the valley.
Drive back to the valley (30 min).
AUD35, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Hampden Bridge

Explore the historic wooden bridge and surrounding park.
Drive to the bridge (10 min).
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Sydney

Drive back to the city after a day of exploring.
Drive back to Sydney (2 hours).
Free (car rental costs apply)., 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Meat & Wine Co.

Savor grilled delights at this renowned steakhouse in Sydney.
Drive to Darling Harbour (15 min).
AUD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kangaroo Valley

Day 12: Explore Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffiend

Enjoy fresh coffee and breakfast in a local favorite café.
Walk to the café (10 min).
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Explore the fascinating underwater life at this popular attraction.
Drive to Darling Harbour (15 min).
AUD45, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Darling Harbour

Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with views.
At Darling Harbour.
AUD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Take a Ferry to Manly Beach

Enjoy the scenic ferry ride, and spend time at the famous beach.
Ferry depart from Circular Quay (30 min).
AUD20, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return Ferry to Sydney

Head back to the city after a relaxing afternoon at Manly Beach.
Ferry returns to Circular Quay (30 min).
Included in prior fee., 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Oxford Tavern

Indulge in classic Australian meals at this vibrant pub.
Drive to Petersham (15 min).
AUD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 13: Free Day in Sydney

Sydney, Australia

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Leisure Day in Sydney

Explore additional attractions or relax at a local café.
Free time.
Costs vary., All day

7:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Bennelong

Enjoy your final dinner in Australia at this prestigious restaurant inside the Sydney Opera House.
Drive to the Opera House (10 min).
AUD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Sydney

Day 14: Departure from Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Savor your last breakfast in Sydney.
At hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Pack and Check-out

Prepare for your departure and check out of your hotel.
At hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Depart for Airport

Take a taxi to Sydney Airport for your flight home.
Taxi to the airport (30 min).
AUD40, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Sydney
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About australia

Best Australia Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Trip Packing List: Australia (Late February — Southern Hemisphere late summer / cyclone season in north)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Hong Kong (4 days) + Australia road trip Sydney→Brisbane (June–July)
Packing List
Australia Weather & Climate Guide: Year-Round Planning
Weather Guide
Full Guide to Michelin Star Cities: 2025 Updated List
Travel Expert
Global Michelin Cities & US Travel Tiers from New York
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your australia Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go