Self-Drive Victoria
Melbourne is the gateway to panoramic touring routes.
Travel across Victoria and experience the region's stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife and renowned food and wine. Be inspired by diverse communities with great passion for arts and culture across all regions. Discover rugged high mountains, lush green rainforests, a breathtaking coastline with famous rock formations and encounter native wildlife.
Great Southern Touring Route
Explore vineyards, drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, climb a summit in the Grampians National Park and travel back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat.
Plunge into Victoria’s famous surf, learn about Western Victoria's maritime history, fascinating Aboriginal history and culture and soak up the riches of the spa country's mineral springs in Daylesford. Keep the binoculars poised for koalas, kangaroos, echidnas and whales along the way.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Melbourne
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Distance: 842 km (523 miles)
Highlights
- Indulge in the freshest seafood and award-winning cool climate wines on the Bellarine Peninsula.
- Take in the 12 Apostles or walk a section of the Great Ocean Walk.
- Ramble among the cone-shaped hills and lake-filled craters of the extinct volcano Tower Hill.
- Explore one of many trails including the Grampians Peak Trail.
- Learn about Victoria’s gold rush at the award winning Sovereign Hill.
Sydney – Melbourne Coastal Drive
Take an unforgettable journey along Australia’s stunning south-east coast, from turquoise bays and white sands to rugged cliffs where mighty waves crash. See kangaroos, penguins, wombats and whales in the wild, enjoy watersports and fresh seafood in idyllic beachside towns, then journey inland to explore historic villages, vast forests and beautiful lakes.
Allow at least five nights on this journey and stop and enjoy the laidback Australian beach lifestyle.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Melbourne
- Duration: 6-8 days
- Distance: 1420 km (882 miles)
Highlights
- Sample local wine and fresh produce along farmgate trails.
- See the world’s smallest penguins arriving home at sunset on Phillip Island.
- Walk amidst the natural beauty and meet the wombats of Wilsons Promontory National Park.
- Enjoy the freshest seafood at waterfront towns along Gippsland Lakes as well as the pristine New South Wales South Coast.
- Experience life as it was in the historic villages of Walhalla and Central Tilba.
Sydney – Melbourne Heritage Drive
Come face to face with the enduring legacy of Australia’s gold rush era. Learn about the resilience of early settlers and discover the timeless spirit of Aboriginal people on this fascinating drive, taking in the mighty Murray River, fabulous wineries, lush national parks and Australia’s capital city, Canberra.
This journey is best experienced with at least four nights to get a sense of the country and the people.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Melbourne
- Duration: 5-7 days
- Distance: 1120 km (696 miles)
Highlights
- Explore beautiful Victorian-era sandstone buildings and century-old gardens in Bendigo, Castlemaine and Albury-Wodonga.
- Enjoy a leisurely cruise onboard the Murray River Paddlesteamer or the eco-friendly Kingfisher Cruises.
- Take part in a Food Fossicking tour in Bendigo or sample local delights at farm gates in the Sun Country.
- Discover fascinating Aboriginal culture such as the Wagirra Trail along the banks of Murray River in Albury.
Go Beyond Melbourne
Travel from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and onto the white beaches and wineries of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsula.
Put together a three to five-day journey winding through lush valleys and pristine coastal landscapes. Sample fine wines and fresh local produce at cellar doors and farm gates, see native wildlife up close, and unwind in beautiful parks and gardens.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Melbourne
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Distance: 301 km (187 miles)
Highlights
- See Phillip Island’s penguins emerge from the sea at Summerland Beach.
- Visit the Mornington Peninsula’s boutique cellar doors.
- Play at one of the many world class golf courses along the touring route.
- Indulge in fine wine and fresh seafood on the Bellarine Peninsula.
- Check out the Yarra Valley’s Healesville Sanctuary for native Australian animals, including the platypus.
Driving in Victoria
All major car rental operators have offices at Melbourne Airport, in various Melbourne city and suburban locations plus most have regional depots in major towns throughout the state. Many major roads into and out of Melbourne are tollways and most do not accept cash payment. Major car hire companies will usually provide an e-toll solution as part of their rental agreement. Alternatively, short-term e-toll passes can be purchased. A ‘Melbourne Pass’ is a convenient way to travel on Melbourne toll roads for a period of up to 30 days.
