12-Day Family Adventure in Melbourne: Nature, City Fun, and Relaxation

Day 1: Explore Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Hardware Société, known for its French toast and hot chocolate that delights both adults and kids.
Located in the CBD, easily accessible by walking if you're staying nearby.
AUD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Next, take the family to the serene Royal Botanic Gardens, perfect for exploring the expansive green spaces and spotting local wildlife.
20 minutes by driving from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Southbank

Grab lunch at one of the restaurants along the Yarra River, where you can enjoy beautiful views and kid-friendly options.
Just a short drive from the gardens.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Melbourne Aquarium

After lunch, visit the Melbourne Aquarium, where the kids can marvel at the colourful sea-life exhibits.
Around 10 minutes' drive from Southbank.
AUD100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at your Hotel

Return to your hotel to unwind after a day of excitement.
Selected accommodation in Melbourne CBD.
Varies, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

End your first day with a vibrant dinner at Chin Chin, serving tasty Thai dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Located in the CBD, a short drive or walk from your hotel.
AUD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and Culture

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Enjoy a crafted breakfast menu at The Kettle Black, celebrated for its stunning presentations and various brunch options.
A 15-minute drive from your hotel.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

National Gallery of Victoria

Explore the National Gallery of Victoria to ignite your imagination with local and international art exhibitions.
Just a short drive away.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Savour a variety of cuisines for lunch at Queen Victoria Market, where you can also shop for unique souvenirs.
10 minutes' drive from the gallery.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Scienceworks Museum

Engage in fun science experiments and interactive exhibits at the Scienceworks Museum, perfect for educational adventures.
30 minutes' drive from the market.
AUD60, 3 hours

4:30PM

St Kilda Beach

Enjoy the beachfront at St Kilda, where the kids can play in the sand and you can relax with scenic views.
20 minutes’ drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Acland Street

Visit Acland Street for dinner and treat the family to delicious cakes and pastries for dessert from the famous cake shops.
St Kilda is all within walking distance.
AUD90, 2 hours
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Day 3: Relax in Daylesford

Daylesford, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Daylesford

Start your day with a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive to Daylesford, famous for its mineral springs.
Enjoy beautiful countryside views.
AUD20 (fuel), 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Daylesford Bakery

Fill up with a hearty breakfast at Daylesford Bakery, with plenty of freshly baked pastries and hearty options.
A local favourite close to the centre.
AUD40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Hepburn Mineral Springs

Experience a rejuvenating dip in the mineral springs at Hepburn, believed to have therapeutic properties.
A quick 10 minutes' drive from the bakery.
AUD30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Farmers Arms

Dine at The Farmers Arms, known for Bangers and Mash, and enjoy a kid-friendly menu in a historic pub setting.
5 minutes nearby.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lake Daylesford

Stroll around Lake Daylesford and let the kids run around while you relax by the water.
Driving distance of 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Lavandula Swiss Lavender Farm

Explore Lavandula, where the family can learn about lavender cultivation and enjoy lavender ice cream.
About a 10-minute drive away.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to your Accommodation

Wind down your day by heading back to your accommodation for some well-deserved rest.
Short drive back.
Free, Duration as required

6:30PM

Dinner at The Saloon

Enjoy your dinner at The Saloon, specializing in hearty meals with an emphasis on local produce.
Just a quick trip back into Daylesford.
AUD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Daylesford

Daylesford, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Larder

Start your day with fresh produce and wholesome breakfast options at The Larder.
A close 5-minute drive.
AUD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Daylesford Spa Country Railway

Take a short train ride through picturesque countryside on a vintage train, a hit with kids.
10 minutes by car.
AUD50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Mingara Health Retreat

Enjoy a day of relaxation or engage in family-friendly activities like yoga and nature walks.
A short drive of about 10 minutes.
AUD60 for activities, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Daylesford Hotel

Opt for casual dining at Daylesford Hotel, well-known for its rustic meals and relaxed atmosphere.
A driving distance of 5-10 mins.
AUD65, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Celebration of Food Tours

Participate in a family-friendly food tour of the local markets, learning about sustainable practices.
Organised tours can be found near the hotel.
AUD120, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax Back at your Hotel

Head back to your accommodations to relax after the day's adventures.
Short drive back.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Rialto

Finish your Daylesford stay with dinner at Rialto, where traditional Italian dishes await your family.
A quick drive from your hotel.
AUD85, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Experience Geelong

Geelong, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Geelong

Set off on a short drive from Daylesford to Geelong, only about 35 minutes away.
Enjoy the changing landscape en route.
AUD10 (fuel), 35 minutes

9:00AM

Breakfast at Geelong Waterfront

Indulge in breakfast at one of the vibrant cafes along the Geelong Waterfront.
Right at the waterfront.
AUD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Geelong Gallery

Explore the Geelong Gallery, with a diverse collection of Australian art, perfect for a family outing.
A quick walk from the waterfront.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Geelong Hotel

Head to The Geelong Hotel for a lovely pub lunch with child-friendly options.
Walking distance from the gallery.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Eastern Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Eastern Beach, where there’s a swimming pool and a playground for the little ones.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from the hotel.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Geelong Botanic Gardens

Visit the beautiful Geelong Botanic Gardens for a scenic walk and let kids explore the nature.
5-10 minutes by car.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Cantina

Savour delicious Italian food with family-friendly menus at La Cantina as you end your day.
Located within Geelong's vibrant centre.
AUD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Great Ocean Road Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Great Ocean Road

Start early for the iconic Great Ocean Road, a scenic drive of around 1 hour to Torquay.
Feast your eyes on stunning coastal views.
AUD20 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at Torquay

Grab breakfast at a beachfront café in Torquay, known for surfing culture and fresh foods.
Close to the beachfront.
AUD50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Bells Beach

Check out Bells Beach, famous for its surfing competitions and sandy shores, where kids can build sandcastles.
Only a 10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lorne

Stroll into Lorne for lunch at a seaside café with kid-friendly menus.
About 30 minutes driving west.
AUD75, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Erskine Falls

Take a short walk to Erskine Falls, where the kids can enjoy nature and you can capture brilliant photos.
A 10-minute drive from Lorne.
AUD20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Twelve Apostles

Finish your day at the spectacular Twelve Apostles, an iconic sight not to be missed.
About a 1-hour drive away.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Port Campbell

Enjoy a delicious fish and chips at a local eatery in Port Campbell after a day of adventure.
Just a quick drive from the Apostles.
AUD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Scenic Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast in Port Campbell

Start your day with breakfast at a local café offering homemade pastries and fresh coffee.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Loch Ard Gorge

Visit the stunning Loch Ard Gorge, filled with beautiful views and plenty of history to share with kids.
10 minutes from Port Campbell.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay

Drive to Apollo Bay for a seaside lunch; try the local seafood at one of the quaint restaurants.
Around 40 minutes onward from Loch Ard.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Great Otway National Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the lush Great Otway National Park with walking trails suitable for families.
15 minutes from Apollo Bay.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Melbourne

Begin making your way back to Melbourne after a packed couple of days.
Enjoy the journey back.
AUD20 (fuel), 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner back in Melbourne at the Italian Deli

Arrive back in Melbourne for a filling dinner at an Italian deli known for its authentic dishes.
Located in the CBD.
AUD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Discover Melbourne's Hidden Gems

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Operator 25

Enjoy a funky breakfast at Operator 25, known for its inventive dishes and all-day brunch menu.
Located in the North Melbourne area.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Melbourne Zoo

Explore the Melbourne Zoo, home to a variety of animals from Aussie native to exotic species.
A short drive away.
AUD120, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Zoo Café

Lunch at the Zoo Café offers kid-friendly meals with a view of the animal exhibits.
Located within the Zoo.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Yarra Valley

Take a scenic drive to the Yarra Valley, renowned for its wineries and stunning landscapes, perfect for family photos.
Around 45 minutes from the Zoo.
Free if not tasting, 2 hours

4:30PM

Picnic at Yarra Valley

Have a relaxing picnic at one of the wineries while enjoying the family-friendly grounds.
Select a winery along the route.
AUD50 (picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yarra Valley Winery

Stay for dinner at a family-friendly winery restaurant where kids are welcome.
Dining options available onsite.
AUD100, 2 hours
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Day 9: Fun and Relaxation in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Brunch at Bluebird Espresso

Savour a forgettable brunch at Bluebird Espresso, famous for its breakfast items and truffle options.
Located in Southbank.
AUD50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

Visit the Melbourne Museum, offering interactive exhibits suitable for family learning and fun.
Short drive or 20-minute walk from brunch.
AUD90, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Grub Food Van

Grab lunch at Grub, a popular food truck with a changing menu that kids love!
Usually stationed nearby.
AUD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Take a ride on the Melbourne Star for stunning views of the city from above, a fun experience for all.
Located a short drive away.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Docklands

Spend the afternoon wandering around Docklands, enjoying shops, parks, and waterfront fun.
Short drive from the wheel.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Docklands

Dine at one of the waterfront restaurants at Docklands offering cuisine everyone in the family will enjoy.
Easily accessible while you explore.
AUD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Phillip Island Day Trip

Phillip Island, Australia

8:00AM

Drive to Phillip Island

Embark on an early drive to Phillip Island, just about two hours from Melbourne.
Enjoy coastal views along the way.
AUD40 (fuel), 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at San Remo

Recharge with breakfast at a café in San Remo, just before heading over to the island.
Nearby to the bridge crossing.
AUD50, 1 hour

11:30AM

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Head to Phillip Island Nature Parks to see fascinating wildlife, including the famous little penguins.
Only a short drive from breakfast.
AUD80, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Cowes

Enjoy a casual lunch at a beachfront café in Cowes, with options for everyone.
Drive to Cowes, 15 minutes away.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Cowes Beach

Spend the afternoon at Cowes Beach playing and relaxing in the sun.
A quick stroll down the beach from your lunch spot.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner on Phillip Island

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant with family favourite options.
Spend the remaining time exploring Cowes.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Melbourne

Finally, drive back to Melbourne after an exhilarating day.
Enjoy the scenic coastal lights along the way.
AUD40 (fuel), 2 hours
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Day 11: Melbourne Cultural Experiences

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Brunch at the Arts Centre Melbourne

Start the day with brunch at the Arts Centre Melbourne, perfect for fit for art lovers and families alike.
A short drive from where you’re staying.
AUD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Federation Square

Take time to wander around Federation Square, exploring its galleries, shops, and public art.
Located nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Melbourne Central

Head over to Melbourne Central for not just lunch but also shopping options for those who love a bit of retail therapy.
Short drive away.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Melbourne's Little Italy

Tour the Italian precinct, where you can indulge in gelato and authentic Italian treats.
Drive to Lygon Street.
AUD50 (treats), 2 hours

3:30PM

Go to Melbourne Zoo

Experience the Melbourne Zoo again with the chance to see any animals you may have missed.
Backtracking to the Zoo.
AUD120, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Meat & Wine Co.

Enjoy a meaty feast at The Meat & Wine Co., where kids are welcome!
Located in the Southbank.
AUD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Final Day and Reflection

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Hardware Société

Return to the beloved Hardware Société for your final breakfast in Melbourne.
Located in the CBD.
AUD40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

Take a stroll through the Carlton Gardens and visit the Royal Exhibition Building for pictures and reflection.
Short drive or nearby walk.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Fitzroy Gardens

Relax with a picnic lunch at Fitzroy Gardens, enjoying the surroundings with your family.
Easy access from the exhibition building.
AUD30 (picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Final Shopping in CBD

Spend your afternoon shopping at various boutiques and souvenir shops in Melbourne’s CBD before your departure.
Walking distance.
Varies, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Gather together for a farewell dinner at Cumulus Inc., a fantastic restaurant known for amazing family dining.
Short drive from shopping.
AUD120, 2 hours

7:30PM

Departure

End your family adventure in Melbourne, cherishing the memories made on this beautiful trip.
Head to Melbourne Airport.
AUD40 (parking or transfer), 1 hour
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