Whether you’re planning a trip to Melbourne City or greater Victoria, there are many cool things you can see and do in this great state.

Here’s a list of some must see attractions and destinations.

#1 – Travel the Great Ocean Road

No trip to Victoria is really complete without driving down the Great Ocean Road. The scenery on this drive really does offer some of the most spectacular landmarks in the country.

243km of breathtaking beauty is what you’ll experience on your journey from Torquay to Allansford. Rugged coastlines and magnificent surf breaks are accentuated by the real highlight of the trip – seeing the 12 Apostles.

Huge limestone stacks eroded by the ocean are a real tourist attraction and a photographer’s dream. The 12 Apostles are an impressive sight, even for a seasoned travel who has toured the world and “seen it all”.

Other key locations en route are Bells Beach, home to the Rip Curl Pro surf classic, national parks, local wildlife, and some great bush walking tracks to really get at one with nature.

#2 – Visit the Golden Triangle

Victoria’s “Golden Triangle” is an area of the state where gold fever struck in the mid 1800s. Over the years it’s been one of the richest sites in Australia for finding gold.

People still prospect and pan for gold in this region today. It can be a fun day out that’s likely totally unlike anything you’ve ever done before. And you never know, you might just find some gold to keep as a souvenir.

There are even guided tours you can join and experience the fun within a group.

#3 – Get Trackside At the Melbourne Cup

If you plan on being in the Melbourne area when the first Tuesday in November rolls around, then immerse yourself in the excitement of Australia’s greatest horse race – the Melbourne Cup.

Steeped in history and a day of fashion, fun, fine dining and lots of champagne, getting trackside at Flemington Racecourse to witness the Melbourne Cup live is a must for anyone’s bucket list. You don’t even have to be a horse racing enthusiast to enjoy a day at the races.

For many years the great race has brought the country to a grinding halt, a tradition that looks set to be with us for decades to come.

Being a part of the Melbourne Cup festivities will be an experience you’ll fondly remember for the rest of your life.

#4 – Experience Phillip Island

What is this great location most famous for?

Little penguins called Fairy Penguins.

Located not too far south of the city of Melbourne, Phillip Island is a really popular tourist destination for anyone visiting Victoria.

The penguins come out of the sea at twilight on Summerland Beach. Children and adults alike adore the penguin parade and it allows you to really get up close and personal with these cute little birds.

Apart from seeing the penguins, there are other things to do on Phillip Island as well, such as visiting the very picturesque Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit, home to some great motor racing, including motorcycle Grand Prix events.

All in all, Phillip Island has so much to see and do. It’s a great place to just chill out, take in the sights, enjoy some fine dining and explore the area.

It’s definitely one Victorian destination you won’t want to miss.

#5 – Do You Love Your Wine?

If you do, then a trip to the Yarra Valley is an absolute must.

Victoria makes some of the world’s best wines, and much of this legendary wine production takes place in this region of Victoria.

Located just 90km east of the Melbourne CBD, it’s an easy day trip from your city accommodation, or even spend a few nights in the Yarra Valley to really soak up the atmosphere.

Go on a wine tasting tour, see how the local wines are produced. Indulge is some fine dining while enjoying the Yarra Valley wines.

You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur. It’s a nice trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city and it really is a picturesque part of the state to visit.

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