6-Day Family-Friendly Nature and Foodie Itinerary in Melbourne

Day 1: Explore Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring their famous French toast and freshly brewed coffee in this vibrant café.
Walk or tram to Hardware Société from your accommodation in the city centre.
AUD 50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Spend the morning wandering through the stunning landscapes of the Royal Botanic Gardens, enjoying the serenity and nature.
Take a leisurely stroll or tram to the gardens.
AUD 0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Kettle Black

Enjoy a modern Australian lunch at one of Melbourne's best eateries, famous for its delectable brunch options.
A short walk from the gardens.
AUD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

National Gallery of Victoria

Take some time to explore Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum, with an impressive collection of international and Australian art.
Tram ride towards St Kilda Road.
AUD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Conclude your day with a vibrant dining experience at Chin Chin, renowned for its contemporary Thai cuisine.
Tram back to the city centre.
AUD 150, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening stroll along Southbank

Enjoy a leisurely post-dinner walk along the Yarra River at Southbank, where you can take in the stunning city views.
Short walk from the restaurant.
AUD 0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Dandenong Ranges Adventure

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Cloudehill Garden & Cafe

Indulge in a hearty breakfast surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Drive or take a train to Belgrave and then a taxi.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Puffing Billy Railway

Hop on the historic steam train that winds through the lush Dandenong Ranges, offering breathtaking scenery.
Drive to the Puffing Billy Station.
AUD 140, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Piggery Cafe

Savour a delicious lunch with fresh produce sourced from the local Dandenong area.
Short drive to The Piggery.
AUD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Exploration at the Dandenong Ranges National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking through beautiful trails filled with towering trees and vibrant wildlife.
Short drive to one of the park entrances.
AUD 0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Cuckoo Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional German banquet dinner at this quirky restaurant, complete with entertainment.
Drive to the restaurant.
AUD 200, 2 hours
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Day 3: Yarra Valley Wine Tasting

Yarra Valley, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Trouble with Joe's

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in this charming Yarra Valley cafe, known for its fresh ingredients.
Drive to Healesville.
AUD 60, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Healesville Sanctuary

Visit this amazing wildlife sanctuary, home to Australian animals and a great learning experience for kids.
Short drive from the cafe.
AUD 100, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Innocent Bystander

Enjoy a delicious meal at this renowned vineyard restaurant, featuring locally sourced produce.
Drive to Innocent Bystander.
AUD 120, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wine Tasting at De Bortoli Winery

Grab the family for a fun wine tasting experience, with a play area for kids while adults enjoy top-quality wines.
A short drive from the lunch venue.
AUD 0 (Tasting fee may apply), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Ice Cream at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Treat the kids and yourself to decadent ice cream and chocolates at this delightful chocolatier.
Short drive to the Chocolaterie.
AUD 40, 1 hour
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Day 4: Phillip Island Day Trip

Phillip Island, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cape Kitchen

Start overlooking the stunning bay with a breakfast at The Cape Kitchen, known for its local produce.
Drive to San Remo for breakfast.
AUD 70, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Phillip Island Nature Parks

Discover the beauty of the island with its stunning coastal views and wildlife sanctuaries.
Drive to the nature parks.
AUD 0, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Smoko Fish & Chips

Enjoy some fresh fish and chips at this popular spot, a family favourite.
Drive to Smoko.
AUD 60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Penguin Parade

Experience the magical sight of little penguins returning home at dusk.
Short drive to the Penguin Parade location.
AUD 300 (entry fee included), 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Cowes RSL

End the day with an easygoing dinner at the Cowes RSL, known for their family-friendly meals.
Drive to Cowes from the Penguin Parade.
AUD 90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Great Ocean Road Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

6:30AM

Breakfast on the Go

Grab some pastries and coffee from a local bakery before hitting the road for a full day of adventure.
Pick up breakfast at a bakery before leaving Melbourne.
AUD 50, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive the Great Ocean Road

Breathtaking coastal views await you as you drive along this iconic road, stopping at various lookouts.
Self-drive along the Great Ocean Road.
AUD 0, 5 hours including stops

1:00PM

Lunch at Apollo Bay

Stop at Apollo Bay for a relaxing seaside lunch, renowned for its freshest local seafood.
Drive to Apollo Bay.
AUD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Twelve Apostles

Witness one of Australia’s most stunning natural wonders and snap family photos against the backdrop.
Drive to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.
AUD 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Wombat Cafe

Delight in comfort food at this cozy café located in Port Campbell after a long day of exploration.
Short drive to Port Campbell.
AUD 90, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Back to Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Top Paddock

Enjoy a relaxed leisurely breakfast known for its creative dishes and exceptional coffee.
Drive back into Melbourne.
AUD 70, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Melbourne Zoo

Spend the day exploring the Melbourne Zoo, home to a variety of animals and family-friendly activities.
Tram or drive to the zoo.
AUD 250 (family ticket), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Zoo Café

Smoothly transition from exploring the zoo to enjoying lunch at their on-site café.
Located within the zoo premises.
AUD 60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Afternoon at Queen Victoria Market

Get a taste of local culture, food stalls, and crafts at the buzzing Queen Victoria Market.
Tram or drive to the market.
AUD 0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Lune Croissanterie

End your Melbourne adventure with a very special dinner featuring world-renowned croissants and more.
A short tram ride from the market.
AUD 40, 1 hour
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