Best of Melbourne & Victoria
If you only have one week to spend in Australia (yes, that is really possible), Melbourne and Victoria can offer you many different experiences, all within easy reach. From classic Aussie experiences to off-the-beaten-path options, this area has something for every interest.
The city of Melbourne is walkable, quirky, and historic. The free tram zone downtown will help you get around. A tour of laneways and arcades with a local guide is a great way to orient you to the downtown area. Laneways and arcades throughout the central business district tell the story of Melbourne through the years. The tour guides will encourage you to imagine what these hidden streets and shopping areas were like in different eras through time.
Royal Botanic Gardens is a terrific place to spend a morning or a whole day. Paths meander through the gardens to help you explore the native and exotic plants, trees, and flowers. Perhaps the best thing the gardens offer are the guided tours. Take a tour with an Aboriginal guide and learn about the plants used in the area in the times when First Nations tribes were the only inhabitants, including a stop for a beautiful tea ceremony.
If you’re looking to get out of the city, head to the Healesville Sanctuary for a morning walk to visit wildlife. The sanctuary has an animal hospital on-site and their conservation programs help protect native Australian wildlife. While in the area, visit a few of the local Yarra Valley wineries. Each vineyard has their own personality. Soumah is a great option for lunch with a sun porch and a delicious Italian menu.
Other Melbourne day trips include Phillip Island, where you will see the nightly march of the penguins, and the Great Ocean Road. If you’re looking for the road less traveled, try driving the Great Ocean Road in reverse, starting with Twelve Apostles and working your way along the road back to Melbourne. You will be going against the traffic and will get a bit of a different perspective.
With direct flights daily from Los Angeles, Melbourne is an easy stop on a big Australian adventure or a wonderful and diverse destination all its own. Contact us now to book your trip!