12 Exciting Places Near Melbourne for a Weekend Getaway

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I loved our time visiting Melbourne. Not only is it a fantastic city to explore filled with many world-class restaurants, stadiums, galleries and theatres, but it’s also a fantastic base to explore other parts of Victoria and Southeastern Australia.

As it turns out, there are many incredible places to visit near Melbourne that are less than three hour’s drive away. Perfect for weekend getaways.

As much as it pains me to say it is a New South Welshman, Victoria was the biggest surprise from our 18-month road trip around Australia.

The state packs a punch, even though it’s a small state there’s still plenty to do, from seeing world-famous scenery to mysterious wildlife and historical landmarks. It’s no surprise our one-month trip quickly turned into three!

Even our kids loved Melbourne and its surrounding tourist attractions, and Kalyra still talks fondly of the place nearly two years later.

If you’re looking for places to visit outside Melbourne that are either a day trip or weekend getaway from Melbourne, then keep reading, as we’ll be listing our favourite spots below.

Places to Visit Near Melbourne for a Weekend Getaway

Once you’re done exploring the city, it’s time to consider one (or more) of the below getaways from Melbourne. These nearby places to visit in Melbourne will have you singing Victoria’s praises in no time too!

1. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Surprisingly we knew almost nothing about Wilsons Promontory National Park before our road trip around Australia and had never heard of Squeaky Beach, which we now put up there with the best beaches in Australia. 

It wasn’t until we arrived in Victoria and started talking with the locals, and a well-travelled friend from Melbourne who raved about the Prom being his favourite place in the country, that we paid it much attention.

Having been, we can confirm that Wilsons Prom is Victoria’s best-kept-secret and at just a 3-hour drive from Melbourne, a great getaway!

Be warned though this coastal wilderness area has limited accommodation and is so popular with Victorians that they have a ballot system to stay during peak season! We spent three nights in a little cabin at Tidal River Campground when we visited. 

While we recommend spending a few days in Wilson’s Prom, if you don’t…