Overview
Victoria may be Australia’s smallest mainland state, but it’s packed with culture, natural beauty, and iconic experiences. From cosmopolitan Melbourne to the rugged Great Ocean Road, alpine villages, wine country, and historic gold rush towns — Victoria is a destination that blends urban sophistication with regional charm.
- Capital: Melbourne
- Major Cities: Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Warrnambool
- Population: ~6.8 million (2024 est.)
- Time Zone: Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) UTC+10 / AEDT (DST)
- Climate: Temperate, with four distinct seasons; alpine regions experience snowfall in winter
Top Destinations in Victoria
Melbourne
Australia’s cultural capital, known for its laneways, art, coffee scene, live music, and world-class food.
Great Ocean Road
A dramatic coastal drive with stunning scenery, surf beaches, rainforests, and the iconic 12 Apostles rock formations.
Ballarat
A historic city with gold rush heritage, elegant architecture, and Sovereign Hill – a living museum.
Yarra Valley
Victoria’s premier wine region, famous for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and farm-to-table dining.
Grampians National Park
Rugged sandstone ranges perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and Aboriginal rock art.
Must-See Attractions
- 12 Apostles – Iconic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean
- Federation Square & NGV – Art and architecture in the heart of Melbourne
- Phillip Island Penguin Parade – Watch little penguins waddle ashore at sunset
- Dandenong Ranges – Forested hills with gardens, trails, and the Puffing Billy steam train
- Mount Buller – A top spot for snow sports and alpine escapes
Things to Do
- Take a street art tour through Melbourne’s laneways
- Drive the full Great Ocean Road – One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives
- Visit wineries in the Yarra Valley or Mornington Peninsula
- Cycle or walk the scenic rail trails through Gippsland and the High Country
- Attend major events like the Melbourne Cup, Australian Open, or White Night Festival
Getting There & Around
Airports
- Melbourne (MEL, AVV), Mildura (MQL), Ballarat (regional airport)
Transport
- Public transport in Melbourne: trams, trains, and buses via Myki card
- V/Line trains connect regional towns to the city
- Car hire is ideal for exploring the Great Ocean Road and rural Victoria
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Lush gardens, wildflowers, and festivals
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Great for the coast and outdoor events
- Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp air and colorful foliage in the Dandenongs and High Country
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Snow season in the Alps and cozy city getaways
Local Food & Culture
- Cuisine: Melbourne’s multicultural food scene features everything from Greek and Italian to Vietnamese and Ethiopian
- Specialties: Flat whites, artisan bakeries, fresh produce markets, and fine dining
- Events: Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, Moomba, White Night, Melbourne International Comedy Festival
- Indigenous Culture: Explore Aboriginal heritage trails and art exhibitions in regional galleries
Souvenirs from Victoria
- Locally roasted coffee and tea
- Aboriginal art from regional communities
- Melbourne streetwear and boutique fashion
- Artisan chocolates, cheeses, and wines
Fun Facts
- Melbourne was once the richest city in the world during the 1850s gold rush
- Victoria has more cafes per capita than any city in the world
- The tram network in Melbourne is the largest urban tram system globally
- The Great Ocean Road was built by returned soldiers after WWI and is the world’s largest war memorial
Suggested Itineraries
5-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Adventure
- Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay
- Day 2: 12 Apostles + rainforest walks
- Day 3: Warrnambool to Halls Gap
- Day 4: Grampians hikes + Aboriginal culture
- Day 5: Return to Melbourne via Ballarat
3-Day Wine & Nature Escape
- Day 1: Yarra Valley wine tasting
- Day 2: Healesville Sanctuary + Dandenong Ranges
- Day 3: Back to Melbourne for arts and shopping
