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Victoria
The best short breaks and getaways from Melbourne in Victoria
RACV
October 22, 2024
Looking for something longer than a day trip? Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with these midweek escapes and short stay breaks around Victoria, all under two hours’ drive from Melbourne.
Sometimes, the urge to head off on a short break falls outside of the weekend schedule. Perhaps you’re looking to visit a quirky regional town, indulge in a culinary journey, or enjoy the sights of a coastal road trip.
The best short breaks and midweek getaways from Melbourne
Inverloch: Seaside serenity
Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 140km (1.5 to 2 hours' drive).
Inverloch, in the state’s Gippsland region, provides a coastal escape with stunning natural landscapes, cliff-top walks, nearby attractions and luxury resort accommodation at RACV Inverloch Resort.
Why it's a great midweek break:Inverloch is the epitome of seaside tranquillity, and a cheaper midweek escape ensures a more serene experience, avoiding weekend crowds.
Things to see and do: Enjoy the pristine beaches, explore the Bunurong Coastal Drive, or even head on a dinosaur fossil tour.
Distance from Melbourne: Around 65km (1 hour drive).
Healesville, in the middle of the picturesque Yarra Valley, is an area full of activities for families, couples, friends and individuals.
Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the wider winery region, take your pick of activities, from a relaxing round of golf or reinvigorating spa treatment, to a full day winery tour or browse of the local boutiques.
Why it's a great midweek break: A midweek visit to the Yarra region allows for a more intimate experience with the renowned wineries, attractions, and wildlife sanctuaries that Healesville has to offer, usually at cheaper rates.
Things to see and do: Have a read through our comprehensive guides on the best things to do in Healesville and in the surrounding Yarra Valley.
Go wine tasting, see some natural wildlife, and end your day with a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape.
Why it's a great midweek break: Midweek provides a quieter escape to a trip down the Mornington Peninsula without the school holiday crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate its rugged coastal beauty.
Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 100km (1.5 hours' drive)
It’s easy to see why this beachside getaway region is a favourite stop on the Great Ocean Road. A hotspot for surfers and day trippers, Torquay is the perfect place to stop for sun, surf, shops and seaside cuisine for a short stay,
Why it's a great midweek break: Beat the weekend rush and have Torquay's famous beaches and surf spots to yourself during your Victorian escape at the RACV Torquay Resort.
Things to see and do: From the famous swell of the iconic Bells Beach to the surf shops, cafes, and coastal walks, there are plenty of attractions in Torquay and its surrounds.
Get back to nature by exploring the many walking trails in the Goldfields.
The Goldfields region is perfect for adding a little adventure to your holiday.
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Goldfields: Where heritage meets adventure
Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 125km (1.5 hours' drive)
Central Victoria is full of towns that thrived during the gold rush. Towns like Creswick, Clunes, and Castlemaine are on the scenic route between Bendigo and Ballarat, showcasing gold history through superb museums, galleries and attractions, as well as a variety of free things to see and do.
Why it’s a great midweek break: Avoid the crowds at popular attractions like Sovereign Hill or the natural springs of Daylesford, while enjoying midweek rates at the central RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick.
Things to see and do: From historical tours, monuments, museums and experiences to gourmet tastings, wildlife parks, spectacular bike trails and fun family activities, there’s something for everyone in Victoria’s Goldfields region.
Melbourne CBD: Urban escape
Melbourne is a city famed for its food and coffee, culture, and cosmopolitan nature. Whether you come in the spring to hit up the range of markets and outdoor festivals and to try the variety of rooftop bars in the CBD, or you want to shop the boutiques, explore the capital with a cheaper midweek short stay.
Why it's a great midweek break: Even for locals, a short city escape can offer a refreshing change of pace, allowing you to explore Melbourne's hidden gems without the weekend crowds.
Melbourne has plenty of laneways to explore, with something to do day and night. Image: Visit Victoria.
No trip to Melbourne is complete without enjoying some of the state's finest food.
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How to plan the perfect short break near Melbourne
When it comes to planning your short break, there are a few key factors to consider:
Best time to visit
Melbourne and regional Victoria offer a range of beautiful destinations to explore, but if you're looking for a cheap midweek getaway, it's important to consider the best time to visit.
If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches or Torquay or Mornington then spring or summer is your best bet, while winter may provide smaller crowds and more affordable dining.
Keep in mind any specific events or festivals happening in your desired destination, as well as any roadworks, as they may impact availability, driving times and prices.
Midweek discounts
To truly maximise your short getaway, consider planning your itinerary in advance. Take advantage of any discounts or special offers available for midweek travellers, such as discounted accommodation rates and attractions and tickets. RACV Members save on ticket prices for Australia's top attractions.
Car safety
Avoid car maintenance issues that can slow you down on a short stay. Before setting off on your midweek getaway, pack an emergency car safety kit, and check that your emergency roadside assistance coverage is up to date.
