If you’re visiting Melbourne and don’t have a car, don’t worry! You can still experience the best of what Victoria has to offer with these fantastic day trips. Melbourne’s excellent public transport system allows you to easily escape the busy city streets and explore forest walking trails, spa towns, and charming villages without the hassle of finding parking. From picnicking at the famous Hanging Rock to cycling along the scenic Warburton Rail Trail, there’s something for everyone. Discover the mysterious French Island, step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, or hop on the iconic Puffing Billy steam train for a nostalgic journey through the Dandenong mountain range. These six day trips will make your Melbourne visit unforgettable.

The Best Day Trips from Melbourne

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1. Go for a picnic at Hanging Rock

Travel time: 1 hour

Located just north of Melbourne, Hanging Rock is a unique and mysterious geological formation that rises dramatically from the surrounding plains. It holds cultural significance for the Wurundjeri people, the traditional custodians of the land. Hanging Rock gained fame through Joan Lindsay’s novel, “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” and subsequent film and TV adaptations. Taking a picnic to Hanging Rock is a popular activity, and visitors can also explore the area’s history and geology at the Discovery Centre. After your picnic, you can visit the popular Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend for a snack or a beer.

How to get to Hanging Rock from Melbourne: To reach Hanging Rock, you can take a train from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Woodend. From there, it’s an 8km (5 mile) walk, cycle (bring your own bike), or a 10-minute cab ride to Hanging Rock Reserve.

2. Cycle or walk the Warburton Rail Trail

Travel time: 1 hour

The Warburton Rail Trail offers a delightful way to explore Victoria’s scenic countryside. This rail trail follows the path of a former train line and stretches from Lilydale to Warburton, covering a distance of 38km (24 miles). The trail takes you through picturesque farmland, native forests, and along the banks of the Yarra River. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for food and refreshments in the small towns along the route. You can bring your own snacks and water for the main trail walk.

How to get to the Warburton Rail Trail from Melbourne: The trail starts in Lilydale, which is accessible by train from the city center. From Lilydale, you can hike a smaller section of the trail and then catch Bus 683 back to the starting point if you get tired.

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3. Go off-roading on French Island

Travel time: 2 hours

French Island, located southeast of Melbourne in Western Port Bay, offers a unique off-roading experience. This largely untouched island is rich in history and natural beauty. Naturaliste Tours offers regular tours of the island, using an ex-mining vehicle to navigate its rough tracks. Highlights of the tour include a visit to Pobblebonk Swamp, a drive through an abandoned chicory farm, and koala-spotting in the island’s trees. The tour concludes with a visit to the French Island General Store, where you can have lunch and explore the island’s only shop.

How to get to French Island from Melbourne: To reach French Island, catch a suburban train to Frankston and then change to a V/Line train to Stony Point. From Stony Point, you can take the French Island ferry, which sails at approximately two-hour intervals.

4. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat

Travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Ballarat, a regional city to the west of Melbourne, played a significant role in the Gold Rush of the 1850s. Sovereign Hill, a historical village constructed around a former gold mine, allows visitors to step back in time and experience life during the Gold Rush era. The streets of Sovereign Hill are lined with meticulously recreated buildings from that period, showcasing the crafts and trades of the time. Visitors can try their hand at gold panning, take horse-and-carriage rides, and explore an old mine shaft. Costumed actors bring the village to life with entertaining performances. Other attractions in the area include the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

How to get to Ballarat from Melbourne: Trains run directly from Southern Cross Station in central Melbourne to Ballarat Station, making it easy to reach the city.

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5. Soak in mineral springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Travel time: 2 hours

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, known as the “spa center of Victoria,” offer a perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. These towns are set amidst rolling hills, lakes, and forests, providing a beautiful backdrop to the mineral springs. Visitors can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters, dine at excellent eateries, and explore the picturesque surroundings. The area’s prosperity can be seen in the well-preserved and restored buildings from the Gold Rush era. In addition to the springs and bathhouses, there are picnic spots, BBQ areas, playgrounds, and walking trails to enjoy.

How to get to Daylesford from Melbourne: The quickest way to reach Daylesford is by train from Southern Cross Station to Woodend, followed by a bus to Daylesford.

6. Tour the Dandenongs on the historic Puffing Billy steam train

Travel time: 1 hour

The Puffing Billy steam train offers a nostalgic journey through the Dandenong mountain range. This iconic restored train takes passengers on a scenic five-hour round trip from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park and Gembrook. Along the way, you can hop off to enjoy a picnic or go for a walk. Puffing Billy is popular with train enthusiasts and younger travelers. On days of extreme heat and total fire ban, a diesel locomotive replaces the steam engine.

How to get to Puffing Billy Railway from Melbourne: To reach the Puffing Billy Railway, take a train from Parliament Station in central Melbourne to Belgrave Station.

These are just a few of the fantastic day trips you can take from Melbourne without a car. Each destination offers unique experiences and the opportunity to explore the stunning natural and cultural attractions of Victoria. So hop on a train or bus and embark on your next adventure!