5-Day Ultimate Melbourne Itinerary for Foodies and Explorers

Day 1: Melbourne City Exploration

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hardware Société, a cozy café famed for its French-inspired dishes and exceptional coffee.
Located in the CBD, just a tram ride away from anywhere.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens

After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens, soaking in the diverse flora and serene atmosphere.
Make your way to the gardens via tram.
AUD10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Head to Queen Victoria Market for a vibrant lunch experience, with numerous stalls offering fresh produce and local delicacies.
A short tram ride from the gardens.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Melbourne’s Laneways

Post-lunch, wander through Melbourne’s famous laneways adorned with street art and quirky boutiques.
Easily walkable from Queen Victoria Market.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria

Immerse yourself in art at the National Gallery of Victoria, home to an extensive collection of Australian and international art.
Walk to the gallery from the laneways.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Indulge in a delicious modern Thai dinner at Chin Chin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its vibrant flavors.
Tram or a short walk from the gallery.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Enjoy a nightcap at Collins Quarter

End your day with a cocktail at Collins Quarter, an elegant bar with a great atmosphere to unwind.
Short walk from Chin Chin.
AUD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Great Ocean Road Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Fuel up for the day at The Coffee Emporium, known for its great brews and fresh pastries.
A quick tram ride can get you there.
AUD15, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Great Ocean Road

Depart from Melbourne for a day trip to the stunning Great Ocean Road.
Drive or take a guided tour bus to the coastline.
AUD150 (tour cost), 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit the 12 Apostles

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the iconic 12 Apostles formation standing tall against the ocean waves.
Continue driving along the scenic route.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Stop at Loch Ard Gorge

Explore the historical site of Loch Ard Gorge, where you can learn about its shipwreck history and enjoy breathtaking views.
A short drive from the 12 Apostles.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Woolshed

Savor some local produce and seafood with a meal at The Woolshed, overlooking the ocean.
Located in Port Campbell, a close drive.
AUD25, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Otway Rainforest

Take a stroll in the Otway Rainforest and enjoy the rich biodiversity and serene atmosphere.
Journey through scenic views to reach the rainforest.
AUD10 (entry fee), 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Head back to Melbourne

Start your return trip to Melbourne, absorbing the views one last time.
Drive back along the Great Ocean Road.
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Degraves Street

Explore the café culture and dine at one of the many eateries along Degraves Street.
Return to the CBD for dinner.
AUD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Yarra Valley Wine Tour

Yarra Valley, Australia

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Yering Station

Enjoy a fresh farm breakfast at Yering Station, paired with stunning views of vineyards.
Take a bus or drive to Yarra Valley.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Wine Tastings at Domaine Chandon

Indulge in champagne tasting at one of Australia's premier sparkling wine producers, Domaine Chandon.
Short drive within Yarra Valley.
AUD40 (tasting fee), 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Oakridge Wines

Explore Oakridge Wines and enjoy another delightful tasting experience, replete with beautiful vistas.
Continue driving through Yarra Valley.
AUD20 (tasting fee), 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Oakridge Wines

Have a casual lunch with local produce at the restaurant at Oakridge Wines, known for its spectacular views.
Dine at the winery to enjoy a seamless experience.
AUD35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Healesville Sanctuary

Spend time at Healesville Sanctuary, interacting with Australian wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos.
Drive to the sanctuary, just a short distance from Oakridge.
AUD40, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Wine Tasting at Yering Station

Finish your wine tour with a tasting at Yering Station, enjoying its award-winning wines.
Return to Yering Station for a final tasting before heading back to Melbourne.
AUD30 (tasting fee), 1 hour

6:00 PM

Return to Melbourne

Head back to Melbourne, reflecting on a day of indulgence and beauty.
Drive or take a bus back.
N/A, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Grossi Florentino

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Grossi Florentino, renowned for its sophisticated Italian cuisine.
Located in the CBD, a short drive from Yarra Valley.
AUD70, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural and Coastal Delights

Melbourne, Australia

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Little Cupcake Bakery

Indulge your sweet tooth with a breakfast at Little Cupcake Bakery, where delightful pastries and coffee await.
Walk or take a tram to this charming bakery.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Melbourne Museum

Explore the Melbourne Museum, which covers everything from natural history to the cultural heritage of Australia.
A tram ride from the bakery will take you there.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Wander through Fitzroy Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens, a serene escape with charming pathways and picturesque scenery.
Easily walkable from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Lentil As Anything

Enjoy lunch at the unique Lentil As Anything, a pay-what-you-feel restaurant that serves tasty vegetarian meals.
A short walk from the gardens.
AUD10 (pay as you feel), 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Melbourne Zoo

Spend the afternoon at the Melbourne Zoo, home to over 320 species from around the world.
A tram ride will get you quickly to the zoo.
AUD38, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at St Kilda Beach

Unwind at St Kilda Beach, where you can stroll along the pier or relax on the sandy shores.
Take a tram to St Kilda.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at the Stokehouse

Finish your day with dinner at Stokehouse, an upscale restaurant known for its incredible views and fresh seafood.
Short walk from the beach.
AUD60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Phillip Island Adventure

Phillip Island, Australia

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hungry Peacock

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Hungry Peacock, known for its local ingredients and cozy ambiance.
Drive to Phillip Island for a scenic journey.
AUD20, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit the Koala Conservation Centre

Learn about and see koalas up close at the Phillip Island Koala Conservation Centre, surrounded by scenic bushland.
A quick drive around Phillips Island.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Explore the Penguin Parade

Head to the Penguin Parade and learn about the adorable little penguins returning home at sunset.
Close drive to the Penguin Parade site.
AUD30 (entry fee), 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Phillip Island RSL

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Phillip Island RSL while taking in panoramic views of the coastline.
Just a short drive from the Penguin Parade.
AUD25, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Nobbies Centre

Discover the natural beauty of the Nobbies, where you can walk along boardwalks and enjoy stunning coastal views.
Drive to the Nobbies Centre nearby.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Melbourne

Start your journey back to Melbourne, reflecting on the natural wonders you’ve experienced.
Return drive to Melbourne.
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Cumulus Inc., a stylish eatery known for its modern Australian cuisine.
Short drive from your location back in Melbourne.
AUD70, 2 hours
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