Want an itinerary like this for your trip?
Tell us where you're going and get a personalized plan in seconds — completely free.
Plan My Trip

12-Day Ultimate Melbourne Adventure Itinerary

Viewed by 80 travelers

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Indulge in a French-inspired breakfast at this charming café known for its delicious egg dishes and pastries.
Walking distance from many hotels in the CBD.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Melbourne CBD Walking Tour

Join a guided walking tour to explore Melbourne's hidden laneways, street art, and historical architecture.
Meet at Federation Square.
AUD 20, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Taste local produce and gourmet food options at this iconic market while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Take the tram to Victoria Market.
AUD 25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll through these magnificent gardens, enjoying the collection of plants from around the world.
Take a tram from the market.
FREE, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Savor contemporary Thai dishes in a vibrant setting at this popular restaurant.
Tram to Flinders Street.
AUD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 2: Coastal Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast that blends modern dining with Australian influences.
Drive or take a tour bus from Melbourne.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Drive along the Great Ocean Road

Take in breathtaking coastal views as you wind your way along this iconic route.
Self-drive or tour bus.
AUD 15 (fuel/tolls), 3 hours to the 12 Apostles

12:00PM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Marvel at these iconic limestone stacks and capture stunning photos.
Parking available on-site.
AUD 0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at 12 Apostles Visitor Centre

Grab a light meal while enjoying views of the ocean and the Apostles.
On-site café.
AUD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Walk the Gibson Steps

Descend the stairs to see the 12 Apostles from the beach level, it’s a striking perspective.
5-minute drive from Visitors Centre.
AUD 0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Port Campbell accommodation

Rest and relax after your adventurous day at a nearby hotel.
25-minute drive from the Twelve Apostles.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The 12 Rocks Beach Bar & Cafe

Enjoy great views and local seafood at this friendly beachside café.
Short walk from hotel.
AUD 40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Great Ocean Road

Day 3: Scenic Wonders

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Port Campbell Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked goods and great coffee.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
AUD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Loch Ard Gorge

Visit this stunning location known for beautiful scenery and historical shipwreck tales.
Drive from Port Campbell (10 minutes).
AUD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit London Arch

Another natural wonder featuring impressive rock formations and coastal views.
Drive from Loch Ard Gorge.
AUD 0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Wreck Café

Enjoy light bites while appreciating the breathtaking ocean views.
Drive back towards Port Campbell.
AUD 25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Warrnambool

Head towards Warrnambool to explore local attractions.
1.5-hour drive.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

Discover the maritime history of the area through interactive exhibits.
Drive to the village.
AUD 20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Warrnambool hotel

Relax after a scenic day before dinner.
Short drive from the village.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Flying Horse Bar & Brewery

Enjoy hearty pub fare and local brews at this lively establishment.
Short drive from the hotel.
AUD 45, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Great Ocean Road

Day 4: Back to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast before departing.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Melbourne

Take the scenic route back, enjoying the landscape.
1.5-hour drive.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Federation Square

Explore Melbourne’s cultural precinct with galleries and events in the heart of the city.
Driving or tram into the heart of the city.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Southbank

Enjoy riverside dining with various culinary options along the Yarra River.
Stroll from Federation Square.
AUD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Melbourne Aquarium

Discover Australia's diverse marine life in this engaging aquarium.
Short walk from Southbank.
AUD 40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at your Melbourne hotel

Take a moment to settle in after your travels.
Walking distance from the aquarium.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Relish in this modern eatery's contemporary menu and casual atmosphere.
Take a tram to Flinders Lane.
AUD 55, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 5: Wine Country Excursion

Yarra Valley, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Hardware Société

Fuel your day with delicious French-inspired dishes at this bustling café.
Tram ride from your hotel.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Drive to Yarra Valley

Experience scenic beauty during the trip to the renowned wine region.
Self-drive or book a tour.
AUD 15 (fuel/tolls), 1 hour

10:00AM

Wine Tasting at Domaine Chandon

Savor some sparkling wines at this prestigious winery with breathtaking vineyard views.
Centrally located in Yarra Valley.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Healesville Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy locally sourced produce paired with exquisite wines in a cozy setting.
Short drive from Domaine Chandon.
AUD 50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit Healesville Sanctuary

Encounter Australian wildlife up close at this renowned sanctuary.
5-minute drive from lunch.
AUD 42, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Take in the views on your way back to the city.
Drive back to Melbourne.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Movida

Indulge in Spanish tapas at this vibrant restaurant known for its authentic flavor.
Near your hotel in the CBD.
AUD 60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Yarra Valley

Day 6: Melbourne’s Flavors

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Scout

Delight in a modern breakfast cafe with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Walk from your hotel.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Street Art Tour

Take a guided bike or walking tour to see the vibrant street art that Melbourne is famous for.
Tours can be booked online.
AUD 50, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tony's Pizza

Savor a classic Melbourne pizza at this beloved local establishment.
Stroll to nearby restaurant.
AUD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Engage with Australia's oldest and most visited art museum featuring an extensive collection.
Take a tram to St Kilda Road.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in and Rest at your hotel

Take a pause before heading out for dinner.
Walking distance from NGV.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Vue de Monde

Experience fine dining with stunning views of Melbourne in this prestigious restaurant.
Short taxi ride from your accommodation.
AUD 150, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 7: Wildlife Wonders

Phillip Island, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a delicious breakfast before heading out for the day.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Phillip Island

Travel to Phillip Island, known for its stunning coastline and wildlife.
1.5 hours from Melbourne.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Penguin Parade

Witness the adorable little penguins returning to shore at sunset.
Book tickets in advance online.
AUD 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cape Kitchen

Enjoy fresh local produce and stunning ocean views at this restaurant.
Short drive from the parade.
AUD 45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Phillip Island Nature Park

Uncover the diverse wildlife and natural attractions around the island.
Driving around the island.
AUD 20, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Melbourne

Drive back in the evening with lovely coastal views.
1.5-hour drive.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Return to this favorite for more contemporary Thai offerings.
Short walk from your hotel.
AUD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Phillip Island

Day 8: Relaxing Day

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Brunch at the Birdcage

Enjoy brunch in a quaint setting with top-notch coffee and pastries.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Melbourne Zoo

Explore diverse animal species and ecosystems in this beautifully landscaped zoo.
Tram ride from your hotel.
AUD 40, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Grab a casual bite with views of the animal exhibits.
On-site at the zoo.
AUD 25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through Fitzroy Gardens

Enjoy a relaxing walk in these stunning gardens, perfect for unwinding.
Tram ride from the zoo.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at your Melbourne hotel

Relax and refresh for the evening.
Walking distance from the gardens.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Koko

Savor authentic Japanese dishes and a fantastic sushi experience.
Short taxi from your hotel.
AUD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 9: Coastal Hidden Gems

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before joining a new adventure.
On-site accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mornington Peninsula

Venture out to this beautiful coastal region known for its beaches and wineries.
1.5-hour drive from Melbourne.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Sorrento Beach

Relax at this picturesque beach or explore the local shops.
Short drive from your arrival.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Sorrento Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with harbor views and a vibrant atmosphere.
5-minute stroll from the beach.
AUD 45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Wine Tasting at Red Hill Estate

Taste exquisite wines and take in stunning views of the vineyard.
30-minute drive to Red Hill.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Mornington Peninsula National Park

Explore the beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and coastal views.
15-minute drive from Red Hill.
AUD 0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Return to Melbourne

Travel back to the city after a fulfilling day out.
1.5-hour drive.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Tonka

Experience contemporary Indian cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
Short taxi from your hotel.
AUD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mornington Peninsula

Day 10: Art & Culture Day

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Begin your day with delightful coffee and pastries in South Yarra.
Walk or tram to South Yarra.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art

Discover cutting-edge contemporary art from Australia's top artists.
Short tram ride from breakfast.
AUD 0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Arbory Bar & Eatery

Enjoy riverside dining in a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse menu.
Tram to Flinders Street.
AUD 45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit State Library of Victoria

Explore this iconic library known for its architecture and historical significance.
Short walk from lunch.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at your hotel

Settle in and unwind before dinner.
Walking distance from the library.
AUD 150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Attica

Prepare for an exceptional fine dining experience that highlights native Australian ingredients.
Short taxi from the hotel.
AUD 200, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne

Day 11: Nature Escape

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up before heading to the mountains.
On-site dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Dandenong Ranges

Enjoy a peaceful drive to this beautiful region full of national parks.
1-hour drive from Melbourne.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1 hour

10:00AM

Hiking at Sherbrooke Forest

Experience stunning trails amidst towering trees and native wildlife.
Follow local hiking trails.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Piggery Café

Enjoy a delicious meal set in a charming setting within the Dandenong Ranges.
10-minute drive from hiking area.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Puffing Billy Railway

Ride the historic steam train through lush forest and charming villages.
Short drive from lunch.
AUD 50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Enjoy a leisurely drive back to the city.
1-hour drive.
AUD 15 (fuel), 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Flower Drum

Experience top-notch Cantonese fine dining in a beautiful setting.
Taxi from your hotel.
AUD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dandenong Ranges

Day 12: Last Day Leisure

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Brunch at the D.O.C. Pizza & Mozzarella Bar

Relish Italian brunch favourites with fresh local produce.
Walking distance from your hotel.
AUD 30, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Melbourne Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Melbourne through engaging exhibits.
Tram or walk to Royal Exhibition Building.
AUD 15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Queen Victoria Market

Enjoy a final lunch filled with diverse food options while browsing the market.
Tram back to the market.
AUD 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at St Kilda Beach

Unwind on the sandy beach, watch the sunset, or stroll along the promenade.
Tram to St Kilda.
FREE, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in and Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel, pack and prepare for your journey home.
Short tram ride.
AUD 0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Enjoy an exquisite dining experience with an innovative menu inspired by history.
Taxi from your hotel.
AUD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Melbourne
0

More About melbourne

Trip Packing List: Melbourne (late Feb–early Mar 2026)
Packing List
Melbourne — November 18 to December 3, 2025
Packing List
Melbourne Weather Guide: Navigating Four Seasons in One Day
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 melbourne Trip

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