15-Day Melbourne and Surrounding Nature Adventure: City Sights and Scenic Escapes

Day 1: Melbourne Arrival

Melbourne, Australia on May 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Enjoy a delicious Parisian-style breakfast in the city center, known for its creative dishes and strong coffee.
AUD25, 1h0m

10:30am

Royal Botanic Gardens

Explore over 8,500 plant species in one of Melbourne’s most beautiful natural retreats, perfect for gentle strolling and photography.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Chin Chin

Savor modern Thai cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere; reservations recommended due to popularity.
AUD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Discover Australia’s oldest and most visited art museum showcasing international and indigenous artworks; open until 5:00pm.
Free entry to permanent collections, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll Federation Square and Yarra River Promenade

Enjoy the lively cultural precinct with street performances and great views of the city skyline and river.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cumulus Inc.

Relish modern Australian dishes in a chic atmosphere, a wonderful way to end the first day of your trip.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 2: City Culture & Markets

Melbourne, Australia on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Degraves Espresso Bar

Start your day at this iconic laneway café known for quality coffee and Melbourne’s vibrant laneway culture.
AUD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Queen Victoria Market

Explore this historic open-air market featuring fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food; open 6:00am to 3:00pm on weekdays and weekends.
Free entry, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Brunetti’s

Enjoy authentic Italian pastries and light meals, perfect for sampling sweet and savory dishes at a beloved Melbourne institution.
AUD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Melbourne Museum & Royal Exhibition Building

Visit the engaging museum with natural history and cultural exhibits plus photo-worthy architecture outside; open till 5:00pm.
AUD15, 2h0m

4:00pm

Flinders Street Station & Hosier Lane

Photograph Melbourne’s iconic railway station and explore nearby Hosier Lane’s famous street art murals.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Movida

Dine at one of Melbourne’s most acclaimed Spanish tapas restaurants, offering a vibrant and flavorful dining experience.
AUD55, 1h30m
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Day 3: Great Ocean Road Start

Melbourne to Torquay, Australia on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Higher Ground

Try creative coffee and brunch dishes in a stylish setting before hitting the road.
AUD30, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Torquay

Begin the scenic Great Ocean Road drive, heading southwest approximately 1.5 hours to Torquay, the surfing capital.
Fuel cost approx. AUD25, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Bells Beach

Famous for its waves and surf competitions, this is a picturesque spot to enjoy ocean views and take short coastal walks.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Pond Cafe, Torquay

Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals in a cozy café atmosphere close to the beach.
AUD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Great Ocean Road Drive to Lorne

Continue driving along the coast about 45 minutes to Lorne, admiring stunning ocean vistas en route.
Fuel cost approx. AUD10, 45m

2:30pm

Erskine Falls

Take a short hike to see one of the beautiful waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park near Lorne.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Lorne town center

Relax and browse local shops, art galleries, and enjoy seaside village charm before staying overnight.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bottle of Milk, Lorne

Casual dining with excellent burgers and a great craft beer selection, perfect after a day of exploring.
AUD40, 1h0m
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Day 4: Great Ocean Road Highlights

Lorne to Apollo Bay, Australia on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lorne Specialty Coffee

Start the day with freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries in a welcoming environment.
AUD20, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Apollo Bay via Great Ocean Road

Continue the breathtaking coastal journey (~1h15m), passing scenic lookouts and beaches.
Fuel cost approx. AUD15, 1h15m

10:00am

Great Otway National Park - Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

Experience an easy 30-minute elevated stroll through lush ancient rainforest with interpretative signs.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Apollo Bay Seafood Café

Try freshly caught seafood in a casual beachside bistro, popular for fish and chips.
AUD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Apollo Bay Beach

Spend time at the sandy beach enjoying ocean views or walking along the shore.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Drive to Cape Otway Lighthouse

Visit Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and enjoy panoramic coastal views; open 10:00am to 4:30pm.
AUD16, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to Apollo Bay & Dinner at Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant

End the day with stunning sunset views and a fine dining experience featuring local produce.
AUD70, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: 12 Apostles & Return

Apollo Bay to Melbourne via 12 Apostles, Australia on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Apollo Bay Bakery

Grab freshly baked breakfast treats and coffee before departure.
AUD20, 30m

7:30am

Drive to the 12 Apostles

Head west about 1h15m to the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, a must-see attraction.
Fuel cost approx. AUD15, 1h15m

9:00am

12 Apostles Viewing & Loch Ard Gorge

Explore various walking paths and lookouts showcasing the dramatic coastline and nearby Loch Ard Gorge; visitor center open from 9:00am.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Twelve Apostles Café – The Grotto

Enjoy casual dining with scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean.
AUD30, 1h0m

12:30pm

Drive back to Melbourne

Return trip to Melbourne along the inland route taking about 3h30m.
Fuel cost approx. AUD40, 3h30m

4:00pm

Check into Melbourne accommodation and relax

Take time to rest and freshen up after the long drive.
Hotel cost varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Flower Drum

Experience exquisite Cantonese cuisine at one of Melbourne’s most prestigious Chinese restaurants.
AUD80, 1h30m
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Day 6: Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula, Australia on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Top Paddock Cafe

Feast on innovative seasonal breakfast dishes made with local ingredients in a stylish café setting.
AUD30, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Mornington Peninsula

Approximately 1h30m drive southeast to explore this renowned coastal and wine region.
Fuel cost approx. AUD20, 1h30m

10:00am

Peninsula Hot Springs

Relax in natural thermal mineral pools and spa facilities; open 8:00am to 9:00pm.
AUD50, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Port Phillip Estate Winery

Enjoy picturesque vineyard views with a delicious winery lunch and wine tastings.
AUD60, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Arthur’s Seat State Park

Take short hikes or a chairlift ride for outstanding panoramic views over the bay and coastline.
Chairlift AUD25 (optional), 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Melbourne

Drive back to Melbourne in about 1h30m.
Fuel cost approx. AUD20, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Vue de Monde

Experience innovative fine dining with spectacular city views atop Rialto Tower.
AUD120, 2h0m
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Day 7: Dandenong Ranges Nature

Dandenong Ranges, Australia on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Miss Marple’s Tea Room

Enjoy a quaint breakfast in a charming tea room surrounded by gardens.
AUD25, 1h0m

9:00am

Puffing Billy Railway

Ride this historic steam train through scenic fern gullies and tall forests; trains start running from 9:30am.
AUD35, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Olinda Gardens & Village

Stroll through the peaceful gardens and boutique shops in this picturesque village.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Miss Marple’s Tea Room

Taste fresh cakes and light lunches, perfect for a relaxing midday meal.
AUD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit William Ricketts Sanctuary

Discover mystical sculptures integrated into the natural forest setting; open 9:00am to sunset.
AUD10 donation suggested, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Melbourne

Drive approximately 45 minutes back to the city.
Fuel approx. AUD10, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Grossi Florentino

Taste elegant Italian cuisine in a grand heritage building downtown Melbourne.
AUD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: Phillip Island Wildlife

Phillip Island, Australia on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Industry Beans

Specialty coffee and inventive breakfast dishes to fuel your day.
AUD30, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Phillip Island

Approximately 2h drive southeast to famous wildlife spots including Penguin Parade.
Fuel approx. AUD30, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Koala Conservation Centre

Walk elevated boardwalks among eucalyptus trees to see koalas in natural habitat; open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
AUD15, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Cape Kitchen

Enjoy modern Australian dishes with local ingredients and rare ocean views.
AUD50, 1h0m

2:00pm

Nobbies Centre & Seal Rocks Boardwalk

Explore coastal walking trails with spectacular sea cliffs and seal colony views.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Penguin Parade

Watch the little penguins returning to shore at sunset, the iconic Phillip Island experience; best to arrive early, event starts at 5:00pm.
AUD27, 2h0m

7:00pm

Drive back to Melbourne

Return drive approximately 2h to the city.
Fuel approx. AUD30, 2h0m
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Day 9: Melbourne Shopping & Laneways

Melbourne, Australia on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Kettle Black

Popular café offering artistic dishes and chic ambience.
AUD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping at Bourke Street Mall & Emporium

Explore Melbourne’s premier shopping district with a mix of boutiques and major brands.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hardware Societe

Return to this-liked café for a savory brunch or lunch meal.
AUD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Degraves and Centre Place Laneways

Wander the cobblestone laneways featuring street art, cafés, and boutique shops.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit State Library Victoria

Admire stunning architecture and exhibitions in this historic library with a beautiful reading room; open until 5:00pm weekdays.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Brighton Beach

Short tram ride to iconic colorful bathing boxes and beach views just before sunset.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tipo 00

Delicious homemade Italian pasta in a cozy and vibrant setting downtown.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 10: Healesville Sanctuary Day

Healesville, Australia on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Industry Beans

Fuel up with specialty coffee and a health-conscious breakfast.
AUD25, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Healesville Sanctuary

Approximately 1h15m northeast of Melbourne, this sanctuary showcases native Australian wildlife in natural bushland setting.
Fuel cost approx. AUD20, 1h15m

10:00am

Healesville Sanctuary Visit

Meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats and endangered species through interactive exhibits; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
AUD40, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Healesville Hotel

Enjoy hearty Australian pub fare in a historic building near sanctuary.
AUD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit TarraWarra Museum of Art

Exhibit of contemporary art and beautiful grounds just 15 minutes south; open until 5:00pm.
AUD15, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return to Melbourne

Drive 1h15m back to the city.
Fuel approx. AUD20, 1h15m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Press Club

Experience exquisite Greek-inspired fine dining in a stylish Melbourne venue.
AUD70, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Day Trip to Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley, Australia on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Higher Ground

Enjoy a refined breakfast before heading out of the city.
AUD30, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Yarra Valley

About 1h to the renowned wine region to explore vineyards and local produce.
Fuel approx. AUD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Domaine Chandon Winery Tour and Tasting

Explore the sparkling wine production and sample world-class bubbly; open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
AUD35, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Innocent Bystander

Relax in a buzzing cellar door and café famous for pizza and local produce.
AUD45, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Healesville Organic Market or Explore Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Depending on the day (market Sat only), or enjoy sweet treats and chocolate making tours.
Free to browse, tours AUD10, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore other nearby vineyards like TarraWarra or De Bortoli

Optional additional tasting or wine purchase.
Tasting fees AUD20-30, 1h0m

5:00pm

Drive back to Melbourne

Return trip about 1h.
Fuel approx. AUD20, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Attica

Highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant offering innovative Australian cuisine; booking essential.
AUD130, 2h0m
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Day 12: Melbourne Museum & Gardens

Melbourne, Australia on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brothl

Healthy and tasty brunch options with coffee to start the day right.
AUD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Melbourne Museum and Carlton Gardens

Visit natural history, Aboriginal culture exhibitions and enjoy the UNESCO-listed gardens around the museum; museum open until 5:00pm.
AUD15, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gus’s American Pizza

Casual and delicious New York-style pizzas in the city center.
AUD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Flagstaff Gardens & walk along the Yarra River

Relax and people-watch in historic gardens, then stroll riverside paths toward Southbank.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Eureka Skydeck

Experience spectacular 360-degree views of Melbourne from the 88th floor; open until 8:00pm.
AUD25, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rice Paper Scissors

Enjoy shared plates of vibrant Southeast Asian dishes in a lively setting.
AUD55, 1h30m
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Day 13: Wilsons Promontory Nature Trip

Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia on May 30, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast and Pack

Light breakfast and prepare for full day nature excursion to Wilsons Promontory.
AUD20, 30m

6:30am

Drive to Wilsons Promontory

About 3h drive southeast to one of Victoria’s most iconic national parks.
Fuel approx. AUD50, 3h0m

9:30am

Visit Tidal River and Hiking

Explore walking trails ranging from short walks to full-day hikes, with stunning beaches and wildlife spotting.
National Park entry AUD12 per car, 5h30m

3:00pm

Lunch at Tidal River Café

Casual café dining with sandwiches and light meals, perfect to recharge after hiking.
AUD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Drive back to Melbourne

Return drive about 3h to the city.
Fuel approx. AUD50, 3h0m

7:00pm

Relaxed Dinner in Melbourne

Opt for a casual meal at your accommodation or nearby eatery to recover from the long day.
AUD30, 1h0m
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Day 14: Melbourne Arts & Culture

Melbourne, Australia on May 31, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Market Lane Coffee

Delight in expert coffee brewing and fresh baked goods near Queen Victoria Market.
AUD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image)

Interactive museum celebrating film, TV, and digital culture; open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Meat & Wine Co

Enjoy premium steaks and wines with waterfront views at Southbank.
AUD50, 1h0m

2:00pm

Street Art Tour in Fitzroy

Guided or self-guided walk through Melbourne’s famous urban art-filled neighborhood.
Free or guided approx. AUD25, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Abbotsford Convent

Cultural center with gardens, cafés, and workshops in a historic former convent setting.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The European

Classic European fine dining with a cozy, old-world atmosphere in the CBD.
AUD60, 1h30m
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Day 15: Departure Day

Melbourne, Australia on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Axil Coffee Roasters

Enjoy your final Melbourne breakfast with excellent coffee and fresh pastries.
AUD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Last Minute Shopping or Walk Along Yarra River

Take a relaxed stroll or pick up souvenirs at nearby shops before your departure.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Travel to Melbourne Airport

Allow sufficient time for travel and check-in for your departing flight.
Taxi/Airport Shuttle approx. AUD60, 1h0m
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