Melbourne is a city known for its culture, coffee, and cool factor — but step outside the city limits, and you’ll find some of Australia’s most spectacular road trip routes right on your doorstep.
Whether you’re chasing vineyards, mountains, ocean views or hidden towns, Melbourne is the perfect starting point for a self-drive adventure through Victoria. And with car hire available directly from Melbourne Airport, you can land, collect your keys, and hit the road without missing a beat.
Here’s why Melbourne is the ultimate launchpad — and the road trips you won’t want to miss.
️ 1. The Great Ocean Road
Distance from Melbourne: Starts about 90 minutes away (Torquay)
Arguably Australia’s most iconic drive, the Great Ocean Road delivers jaw-dropping views, seaside towns, lush rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles. Stop in at Lorne, explore the waterfalls in Great Otway National Park, and spend the night in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell for the full experience.
A rental car gives you the freedom to stop at scenic lookouts, take detours, and beat the tour bus crowds.
- Yarra Valley
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour
Wine lovers, this one’s for you. The Yarra Valley is home to world-class wineries, cellar doors, and some of Victoria’s best produce. But it’s not all about the wine — you’ll also find the Healesville Sanctuary, chocolate factories, and rolling countryside made for long lunches and lazy drives.
Public transport doesn’t reach most cellar doors — car hire is essential for a proper day out.
- The Dandenong Ranges
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour
This dreamy, forested escape feels a world away — but it’s just over an hour from the city. Wander through Sherbrooke Forest, ride the Puffing Billy Railway, sip tea in Sassafras, and visit the stunning Alfred Nicholas Gardens.
Having a car makes it easy to hop between villages, gardens, and walking trails.
⛰️ 4. The Grampians
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours
Craving big skies, hikes, and ancient rock art? The Grampians (Gariwerd) are calling. Base yourself in Halls Gap, hike to The Pinnacle, visit MacKenzie Falls, and learn about Indigenous culture at Brambuk Cultural Centre.
The scenic drive is half the fun — and with your own wheels, you control the pace.
✨ Start Your Road Trip the Right Way
Whether you’ve got a few days or a couple of weeks, Victoria’s best road trips begin in Melbourne. And the easiest way to unlock them? Grab a car at Melbourne Airport, skip the city shuffle, and get straight into adventure mode.
Ready to roll? Book your Melbourne Airport car hire and turn your next trip into a road trip worth remembering.