3-Day Scenic Road Trip from Melbourne Exploring Victoria's Best

Day 1: Mornington Peninsula Exploration

Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula, Australia on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hardware Societe Melbourne

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with French-inspired dishes in the heart of Melbourne before setting off on your road trip. Highly rated for its eggs benedict and coffee.
AUD35, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Mornington Peninsula

Depart Melbourne and drive approximately 90 km southeast to the Mornington Peninsula, which takes about 1.5 hours via M1 and M11 highways.
AUD15 (fuel approx.), 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Peninsula Hot Springs

Relax in natural thermal mineral pools surrounded by beautiful nature. It's a perfect way to refresh after the drive. Open 9am to 9pm.
AUD65, 2h

1:15pm

Lunch at Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove

Dine on regional produce paired with local wines at this picturesque vineyard with stunning views and an art gallery.
AUD50, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Point Nepean National Park

Drive to Point Nepean to walk scenic trails, discover historical military forts, and enjoy coastal views. Open sunrise to sunset.
AUD10, 2h

5:30pm

Drive to accommodation in Mornington

Head into Mornington township to check into your hotel and freshen up.
AUD10, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cibo Mornington

Enjoy modern Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a stylish atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
AUD70, 1h30m

Day 2: Phillip Island Wildlife & Nature

Mornington Peninsula to Phillip Island, Australia on July 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Cups Mornington

Start your day with specialty coffee and hearty breakfast options at this popular local café.
AUD25, 1h

8:45am

Drive to Phillip Island

Travel approximately 130 km southeast to Phillip Island, estimated 2 hour drive via M1 and Bass Highway.
AUD20, 2h

11:00am

Visit Koala Conservation Centre

Walk among eucalyptus forest elevated boardwalks to spot koalas in their natural habitat. Open 10am to 5:30pm.
AUD15, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Nobbies Centre Café

Lunch with scenic coastal views and freshly made meals at the Nobbies café, near seal viewing areas.
AUD30, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Nobbies Boardwalk and Seal Rocks

Take a walk on the boardwalk for spectacular ocean views and spot Australian fur seals from viewing platforms.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Smiths Beach

Enjoy the beach atmosphere at Smiths Beach with options for swimming or simply unwinding with a view.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Witness the world-famous penguin parade at sunset where little penguins march ashore. Book tickets in advance. Parade starts at sunset (~5:15pm).
AUD25, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pino’s Trattoria

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in Cowes on Phillip Island with a cozy atmosphere.
AUD60, 1h30m

Day 3: Return to Melbourne

Phillip Island to Melbourne, Australia on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Deli Cowes

Grab a fresh and tasty breakfast with locally sourced ingredients before departing Phillip Island.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Drive back to Melbourne

Drive approximately 140 km northwest back to Melbourne via M1, estimated 2 hours.
AUD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Queen Victoria Market

Explore the vibrant market for a variety of fresh food stalls and local delicacies. Open 6am to 3pm on Saturdays.
AUD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Stroll through the beautiful gardens to see diverse plant collections and peaceful lakes. Open daily 7:30am to sunset.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee at Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters

Enjoy a specialty coffee at this renowned Melbourne roastery and café as a relaxing end to your trip.
AUD10, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Chin Chin

Experience modern Thai cuisine in a lively setting, famous for its vibrant flavors. Reservations advised.
AUD65, 1h30m