14-Day Family-Friendly Melbourne Road Trip: City, Nature, Food, and Volunteering

Day 1: Exploring Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Societe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this popular French-inspired café in the CBD.
Walk from your accommodation if in the city center.
AUD30, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens, perfect for kids to run around.
15-minute drive or a tram ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Kettle Black

Savor a meal at this trendy eatery known for its sophisticated brunch options.
Short drive or walk from the gardens.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Melbourne Zoo

Spend the afternoon visiting a wide variety of animals in a beautiful park setting.
20-minute drive.
AUD38, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Melbourne Central

Visit this shopping center for a food court-style dinner with diverse options for all tastes.
15-minute drive back.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Federation Square

End your day with a walk around this iconic square, often featuring local events and live music.
5-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Culture and Adventure

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cumulus Inc.

Delight in a breakfast showcasing seasonal produce at this contemporary eatery.
Short drive or tram ride.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Melbourne Museum

Discover fascinating exhibits that cater to all ages, including a Children's Gallery.
15-minute drive.
AUD15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Melbourne Food Hall

Sample a variety of flavors from Melbourne's multicultural cuisine in this bustling food hall.
10-minute drive.
AUD60, 2 hours

3:00PM

Royal Exhibition Building

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy its majestic architecture and gardens.
5-minute walk from lunch.
AUD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Stroll in Fitzroy

Wander through Melbourne's creative neighborhood known for street art and boutique shops.
20-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Everleigh

Cap off the day with a family-friendly dining experience at this Australian bar and restaurant.
5-minute drive.
AUD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Queen Victoria Market

Start your day at this bustling market with fresh produce and delicious breakfast options.
10-minute drive.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Day Trip to Yarra Bend Park

Discover scenic views and wildlife; try paddle-boating or walking along the trails.
15-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yarra Bend Park Café

Enjoy a light meal with views of the park while the kids play nearby.
On-site.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Head Off to Royal Park

Visit this expansive park with bike paths, playgrounds, and a chance to see kangaroos.
10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Glasshouse

Dine in a beautiful setting overlooking the park with a variety of dishes suitable for families.
Drive back to the city.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

City Night Walk

Experience Melbourne's vibrant nightlife with street performers and bustling squares.
Short drive to city center.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Phillip Island Adventuring

Phillip Island, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Pickers

Fuel up with trendy brunch items and coffee before heading to Phillip Island.
1.5-hour drive.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Indulge in chocolate-making experiences that the whole family will enjoy.
15-minute drive.
AUD75, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cowes Beach

Savor beachside fish and chips while enjoying the coastal view.
5-minute drive.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Koala Reserve

Walk among the trees to spot koalas in their natural habitat.
10-minute drive.
AUD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Penguin Parade

Witness the majestic parade of little penguins returning to shore at dusk.
30-minute drive.
AUD52, 2.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Island Restaurant

End your day with a family-friendly dinner featuring local seafood.
5-minute drive.
AUD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Phillip Island Nature Day

Phillip Island, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Foreshore

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with views of the ocean.
Walk or drive to the café.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Phillip Island Wildlife Park

Get up close with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies.
20-minute drive.
AUD45, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Riddle

Enjoy artisan food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
15-minute drive.
AUD55, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Surf Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or trying out family-friendly surfing lessons.
15-minute drive.
AUD100, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at San Remo Hotel

Wrap up your day with classic pub food in a friendly atmosphere.
30-minute drive back.
AUD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Mornington Peninsula Retreat

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lost Lands

Start your day in this laid-back venue with a farm-to-table breakfast.
Drive from Phillip Island (1-hour drive).
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at this unique natural geothermal hot springs.
20-minute drive.
AUD55, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Careel Bay Beach Café

Savor delicious lunch dishes with stunning bay views.
20-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Point Nepean National Park

Discover scenic coastal walks and enrich your knowledge at historical sites.
30-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Greetery

Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere serving locally sourced dishes.
30-minute drive.
AUD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Adventure in Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Balnarring Beach Café

Indulge in breakfast delights right by the beach.
Short walk from accommodation.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Sorrento Ocean Beach

Spend some time on the beach swimming or building sandcastles.
15-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sorrento Hotel Bistro

Choose from various family-friendly options for lunch.
5-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Pennisula Homegrown Farmer's Market

Explore this market filled with local produce and artisan products.
30-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Lighthouse

Enjoy an early dinner with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine for the whole family.
30-minute drive.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stargazing at Main Ridge

End the day observing stars in a serene environment.
20-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Yarra Valley Exploration

Yarra Valley, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yarra Valley Dairy

Enjoy local cheeses and light breakfast options at this picturesque dairy.
1-hour drive from Mornington Peninsula.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Healesville Sanctuary

Engage with Australia's unique wildlife in a conservation-focused environment.
20-minute drive.
AUD45, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Innocent Bystander

Taste delicious pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients.
10-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Yering Station

Relax in the winery while enjoying tastings and views of vineyards.
20-minute drive.
AUD20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chandon Restaurant

Wrap up with a delightful meal paired with local sparkles.
30-minute drive.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Overnight at Yarra Valley

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the valley.
Short drive from dinner.
AUD150, 1 night
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Day 9: Yarra Valley Adventures

Yarra Valley, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yarra Valley Lodge

Start your day in style at this luxury lodge's breakfast buffet.
On-site.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Biking the Yarra Valley

Rent bikes to explore the scenic trails, suitable for all ages.
Bike rental place nearby.
AUD40, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fook Shing

Relish delicious Asian-inspired dishes to refuel after cycling.
10-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

Enjoy outdoor activities ranging from hiking to mountain biking.
1-hour drive.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Yarra Valley Pub

Relax with hearty food and an inviting atmosphere.

8:00PM

Evening by the Campfire

Enjoy stories by the fire; perfect for family bonding.
Enjoy your stay at Yarra Valley Lodge.
AUD10, 2 hours
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Day 10: Dandenong Ranges Exploration

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at 1000 Steps Café

Start your day with hearty breakfast options and a coffee at this popular spot.
1-hour drive from Yarra Valley.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Walking the 1000 Steps

Challenge your family with a hike through this scenic and iconic trail.
5-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Olinda Café

Wind down with delightful cafe options after your hike.
15-minute drive.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Sherbrooke Forest

Explore the lush rainforest, looking out for lyrebirds and koalas.
10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sassafras

End the day with deliciously comforting Australian food in rustic surrounds.
15-minute drive.
AUD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: More on Dandenong Ranges

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Patch Café

Treat yourself to a farm-style breakfast with local produce.
Short drive from accommodation.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Puffing Billy Railway

Experience a scenic ride on this historic steam train through the beautiful countryside.
20-minute drive.
AUD60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Emerald Village

Enjoy local flavors in this quaint village setting after your train ride.
10-minute drive.
AUD55, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gardiners Creek Reserve

Spend some time by the creek, perfect for family picnics and relaxing.
30-minute drive.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cuckoo Restaurant

Feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet in a charming Bavarian setting.
20-minute drive.
AUD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Scenic Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Black Pearl

Savor breakfast in a cozy café before hitting the road.
1-hour drive from Dandenong Ranges.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Great Ocean Road Drive

Embark on this iconic drive, stopping for breathtaking views along the way.
Begin your scenic drive.
Free, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay

Take a break at this coastal town with seafood and casual dining options.
Stop along the journey.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Twelve Apostles Lookout

Explore the iconic limestone stacks with stunning coastal views.
Continue driving.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Pub

Enjoy relaxing with a hearty meal at a local pub after a long day.
Nearby pubs in Port Campbell.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Night in Port Campbell

Rest up as you prepare for another day on the Great Ocean Road.
Short drive from dinner.
AUD150, 1 night
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Day 13: Finishing Great Ocean Road Tour

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Port Campbell Hotel

Enjoy a warm breakfast at the hotel before starting your day.
On-site.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Loch Ard Gorge

Explore this picturesque spot known for its scenic rock formations.
20-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Café at Loch Ard

Grab lunch with amazing views of the gorge.
On-site.
AUD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

London Bridge

Visit this famous structure and walk along the beach adjacent.
10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the late afternoon soaking up the sun and maybe trying some surfing.
Nearby beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Port Campbell

Finish off with a cozy dinner while reflecting on your trip.
Short drive from the beach.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Drive Back to Melbourne

Head back to Melbourne reflecting on the adventure-filled trip.
2-hour drive.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 14: Melbourne and Departure

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Duchess of Spotswood

Enjoy a classic breakfast in a chic café before departing.
1-hour drive back to Melbourne.
AUD60, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Queen Victoria Market

Pick up souvenirs and samples from this iconic market.
Short drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Southbank Promenade

Enjoy lunch along the Yarra River with plenty of dining options.
Drive to Southbank.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Federation Square

Spend some time in this culture hub before departing.
Nearby walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Departure from Melbourne

Reflect on your family adventure in Victoria as you head to your next destination.
Return rental car and check-in.
Free, Time to arrange
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