Top 5 Must-Visit Destinations in Victoria, Australia
Victoria, Australia's second-smallest state by area, spans roughly the size of England, Wales, and Scotland combined—or slightly larger than Utah in the U.S. Its vast 1,800 km (1,120 miles) coastline makes road trips the ideal way to explore, far beyond just the iconic Great Ocean Road. Nestled on Australia's southeastern edge, Victoria blends pristine beaches, dramatic coastlines, alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and vibrant urban life in Melbourne. Discover our top recommendations for the best places to visit.
The Top 5 Places to Visit in Victoria
1. Melbourne
Melbourne, the state capital, is the perfect launchpad for your Victoria journey. In recent years, it has emerged as one of the world's hippest cities, boasting a thriving coffee scene, stunning cityscapes, and world-class street art—a personal highlight from my Australian travels.
Enjoy riverside bars and restaurants along the Yarra with panoramic views, soak up the bohemian vibe in Fitzroy, and immerse yourself in the bustling Queen Victoria Market. Catch a magical sunset at St Kilda Beach, then stroll the scenic Bay Trail from St Kilda Pier to Brighton.
Melbourne is also the gateway to the legendary Great Ocean Road drive—rent a car at the airport for ultimate flexibility in touring Victoria.
2. Great Ocean Road
The 243 km (151-mile) Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list highlight not just for Victoria, but all of Australia. This scenic drive showcases jaw-dropping coastline, including the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks. Stop in charming towns like Lorne, Torquay, and Port Campbell, plus must-sees such as Loch Ard Gorge, Bells Beach, Otway National Park, and the Bay of Islands' pristine beaches.
3. Phillip Island
Renowned for the enchanting Penguin Parade—where little penguins waddle from sea to shore nightly—Phillip Island offers more wildlife wonders: 16,000 fur seals at Seal Rock, seabird platforms, and the Koala Conservation Reserve. Explore wetlands, coastal walks, and world-class surf at Woolamai. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne by car via bridge, it's an easy addition to any itinerary.
4. Mornington Peninsula
Only an hour from Melbourne, this peninsula is ideal for a day trip, famed for award-winning wineries and idyllic beaches. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Cape Schanck and Point Nepean, and unwind at the natural Peninsula Hot Springs.
5. Great Alpine Road
Beyond the coast, the 308 km (191-mile) Great Alpine Road from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale delivers Victoria's premier alpine drive through lush forests, snow-capped peaks, rolling hills, valleys, and vineyards—Victoria's highest road. Drive it in a day with stops in historic gold-rush towns like Beechworth and Bright.
Have you explored Victoria? Share your must-see spots in the comments!
