Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a sustainability enthusiast, or just itching for a spontaneous getaway, Melbourne’s the perfect launchpad for epic road trips. Ditch the car and opt for trains, buses, ferries, or even a trusty bike to uncover Victoria’s hidden gems—think jaw-dropping nature, mouthwatering eats, and adventures that’ll have you texting your mates to join. As Melbourne’s top Local SEO expert, I’ve handpicked the best road trips within a 90-minute radius (give or take) of the city. Solo road trips, mate-filled escapes, or bonding with your hostel bunkmate—these are your go-to day trips or wallet-friendly weekenders.

All train-based road trips kick off from Southern Cross Station. Buckle up—your Melbourne road trip starts now!

Castlemaine – Goldfields Glory on a Road Trip

The Castlemaine road trip through Victoria’s Goldfields can be accessed by train while offering both historical sights and modern urban atmosphere. A brief 10-minute journey starting at the station will lead travelers to a town whose gold-rush appeal creates a setting of wide streets alongside grand old buildings. Start your activities at the Castlemaine Art Museum to see the exquisite local artwork along with different art exhibitions. 

Take a moment to search for independent artists’ studios which can be found scattered across the town.

The creative hub serves as a vibrant center that attracts an abundance of writers, artists and musicians. Enjoy flat whites along with brunch at Run Rabbit Run (24 Hargreaves Street) while you take in the ambiance before searching for desirable items at The Mill or Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar. Wine lovers, detour to Boomtown Wine at The Mill for a micro-winery tasting. Beer more your speed? Shedshaker Brewing’s Taproom offers craft beer as well as plant-based pizza and Friday and Sunday live music performances.

Nightlife enthusiasts can secure concert tickets at Theatre Royal events and relax at Bridge Hotel where they can enjoy pub fare and chilled evening music in the beer garden.

Road Trip Route: Bendigo V/Line train to Castlemaine Station; 90 minutes.

Dandenong Ranges National Park – A Road Trip into Nature’s Arms

A trip to the Dandenong Ranges National Park requires boot lacing as well as packed food and multiple layers because it is located just east of Melbourne. The station at Upper Ferntree Gully leads patrons a short 15-minute journey through dense woods to fern-covered landscapes. Crave fresh air? The 4.8km return Lyrebird Track leads travelers uphill to reach One Tree Hill amid its serene nature. 

Guests can reload their batteries at the cafe or prepare food for dining in the tree canopies.

Want a slower pace? From Belgrave Station on the Belgrave line passengers continue the journey to Puffing Billy at Belgrave Station which operates as Australia’s oldest steam train. The road trip bonus provides passengers with a chance to admire the Ranges’ scenic beauty including trestle bridges and towering gums while avoiding physical fatigue.

Road Trip Route: Belgrave line metro train to Upper Ferntree Gully; 60 minutes.

Geelong – Waterfront Wonders on a Road Trip

Geelong serves as Victoria’s principal city after Melbourne while standing as a waterfront getaway in southwest Victoria. The Gallery stands only five minutes away from the train station through which you can find world-class Australian and international art pieces. Relax in the Geelong Library’s dome at Public Cafe before exploring Geelong Art Space to admire its local creation.

Beach vibes calling? Eastern Beach welcomes visitors for carousel rides and swimming at the bay that follows a winding path with art bollards through the Waterfront Art Trail. Visitors must experience fish and chips at Geelong Boat House which can be enjoyed either on the beach or from a deck chair. Sundowners can visit Sailors’ Rest beer garden along with witnessing an AFL match at GMHBA Stadium if they get lucky enough to see the Geelong Cats. The upscale dining in Little Malop Street provides fine wine and food along with Asian-inspired offerings at Frankie Bar and Eatery.

Road Trip Route: Geelong V/Line train to Geelong Station; 70 minutes.

Warburton – Pedal-Powered Road Trip Bliss

Ready for a road trip with a twist? Board the train at Lilydale and afterward switch transportation to the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail via bike. The warburtonbikehire.com.au website allows you to rent bikes while offering an online booking service with Gracious Grace Café as the pickup location. The trail spans 40 kilometers from bushland to farmland and forests as it caters to cyclists at all levels.

Active travelers should pedal from Warburton to Seville to visit the century-old railway car restaurant that serves as a café. Cog Bike Cafe provides bike drop-off services while you can enjoy Warburton’s array of pubs and cafes and Silva’s Coffee establishments. The first Sunday Valley Market at Hit Valley Market runs parallel to La La Falls hiking trails and the small-town movie theater experience. Take the bus route from Lilydale to reach the destination.

Road Trip Route: Lilydale Line metro train to Lilydale Station, then bike to Warburton; train 60 minutes, biking’s on you.

Torquay – Surf’s Up on This Road Trip

Craving salt air? Torquay’s your road trip fix on the Surf Coast, gateway to the Great Ocean Road. Catch pro surfers at the Rip Curl Pro (Easter) or book a lesson with Torquay Surf Academy. Seasoned? Shred at Bells Beach. Surf shops like Rip Curl and Quiksilver line the streets, and the Australian National Surfing Museum fuels your stoke.

Refuel at Mortadeli’s cozy deli or sip craft cocktails at Great Ocean Road Distillery. The Surf Coast Walk offers cliff-top views—hike it for the full land-and-sea combo.

Road Trip Route: Geelong Line V/Line to Geelong Station, then bus 50/51 to Torquay; 2 hours.

Portarlington – A Ferry-Fueled Road Trip

Swap roads for waves with a ferry road trip from Docklands to Portarlington on the Bellarine Peninsula. Snap pics of dolphins or seals as you sail across Port Phillip Bay. Once ashore, this chill town delivers holiday vibes and seafood heaven—mussels and oysters shine at Little Mussel Cafe or Pier Street. Stroll the pier with ice cream or fish from the rockwall.

Swim in the turquoise bay, read on the sand, or bike the Esplanade to Indented Head (bring your own or rent via Bella e-Bike). The Bellarine Rail Trail’s another scenic option.

Road Trip Route: Port Phillip Ferries from Docklands to Portarlington; 80 minutes.

Local, green, and undeniably awesome. From surf-soaked shores to gold-rush relics, every mile is a memory waiting to happen. So, grab your crew, pick your path, and let Melbourne’s backyard steal the show—your next road trip’s revving up now!

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