The buzz of Melbourne and regional beauties: the best things to do in Victoria
Victoria is home to sprawling wine regions, gorgeous valleys, artsy hubs, epic nightlife, world-class sports stadiums and the luring hustle and bustle of Melbourne.
Travellers can either stay in the city for plenty of entertainment and good food or venture out regionally to find mountains, surfing beaches, and a number of tasty wineries. The opportunities are endless.
Here are the best things to do in Victoria, according to Tripadvisor.
1. Melbourne Skydeck
Coming in on the best experiences in Australia list, this is a chance to see Melbourne from the best seat in the house.
The Melbourne Skydeck is the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck with breathtaking 360-degree views of the iconic city. You’ll be able to use viewfinders and binoculars to get a closer look or upgrade to The Edge for the ultimate rush walking out into a glass cube that projects 3 metres from the side of the building, giving the sensation of being suspended in the air (not for the faint of heart). It’s one of the best things to do in Victoria, and a bucket list item if you’re heading into the city.
2. Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Tour from Melbourne
We love a good wine tour, and this one takes the spotlight in Victoria.
You’ll tour four much-loved Yarra Valley wineries; Steels Gate Winery, Balgownie Estate, Yering Farm, and Greenstone Vineyards. Each will provide a unique tasting experience with views over the Great Dividing Ranges, famous Cab Sav and Shiraz varietals, historic wine-making equipment, and a winery lunch to keep the stomach lined for plenty of wine consumption. Name a better way to spend the day.
3. Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour
The Great Ocean Road sees its fair share of crowds, which can make for a pretty clogged up experience if you take it on yourself.
This tour takes on a reverse itinerary that starts early so you beat the crowds. It’s only small (a max of 12 people) so the experience will be very intimate. First, you’ll travel inland to the 12 Apostles, then walk Gibsons Steps and marvel at the Gog and Magog, see the most impressive limestone formation in the region, The Razorback, and take in the breathtaking attractions at Loch Ard Gorge including one of Australia’s most famous shipwrecks. The tail end includes a stop at London Bridge, lunch at the charming coastal town of Port Campbell, a drive-through Blanket Bay Road, spotting koalas at Kennet River, and finishing the day at Teddy’s Lookout at the top of cliff Lorne. Yeah, that’s a lot of sights to see.
4. Highlights of Melbourne Cruise
How do you possibly see all the highlights of Melbourne? Here’s your answer.
You’ll get a unique view of the buzzing city from the Yarra River as you take in historic buildings, modern skyscrapers, and lush gardens. A guide will provide commentary on the history and modern culture, probably giving you some great spot recommendations along the way to add to your must-visit list. It’s perfect for newbie visitors or those with a short stay to make the most of it all.
5. Mornington Peninsula Winery Bus Tour
All aboard the wine bus!
This inclusive tour visits a carefully selected handful of Mornington Peninsula’s best wineries with plenty of tastings throughout. The typical itinerary visits Red Hill Estate, T’Gallant, a two-course lunch at Pier 10 with a glass of wine, and a final tasting stop at Dromana. You’ll leave having learnt plenty about the renowned region, and totally full of wine and food.
While it’s not on TripAdvisor’s list of things to do in Victoria – of course, you will need to put aside some time to check out the best hidden bars in Melbourne as well.
Images: tripadvisor.com
Get more of Victoria at SoWhereNext.com.au
