Victoria is truly a treasure trove of experiences where old meets new and culture thrives. Whether you're looking for a weekend stay in Melbourne, Victoria's vibrant capital city, or hoping to venture to the flourishing regions nearby like the Mornington Peninsula and the Yarra Valley, Backpacker Deals has tours and activities to add to your itinerary. So calling all foodies, art enthusiasts, wine lovers and history buffs, Victoria has the perfect weekend getaway for you.
Melbourne: A City of Endless Possibilities
Melbourne's city center is heaving with new bars, restaurants, and hot-spots emerging alongside beloved favourites. Spend a weekend discovering the city's hidden culinary gems in its famous laneways, with this Melbourne Foodie Culture Walking Tour a popular pick!
Or, for something a little different, jump on this Melbourne Hot Air Balloon Deal with Breakfast! That's right, you can indulge in an incredible 5-star breakfast at Hotel Windsor's One Eleven Restaurant. *Chef's Kiss*
Collingwood: "The Coolest Street in the World"
Named the world's coolest street by Time Out in 2021, Smith Street in Collingwood and Fitzroy is a haven of thrift and vintage shops.
Explore Collingwood Yards, a not-for-profit creative precinct in the heart of Collingwood that's home to hundreds of artists and creative workers, or check out this article from Visit Victoria about the Top 10 Things To Do In Collingwood.
Carlton: A Transformation from Little Italy
Carlton, Melbourne's Little Italy, has undergone a transformation in recent years. Stalwart King and Godfree is a deli, grocer, bottle shop, and osteria, offering rooftop delights at Johnny's Green Room. Explore Carlton's rich heritage, visit the Melbourne Museum, or even go for a wander through the University of Melbourne campus.
Daylesford: Victoria's best-kept secret
On this Mt Macedon Ranges & Daylesford Day Trip, experience everything from breathtaking views at Mt Macedon to the iconic Hanging Rock.
FUN FACT: Hanging Rock is most famous as the subject of the Australian historical fiction novel by Joan Lindsay, Picnic at Hanging Rock. Set in 1900, it is about a group of female students at an Australian girls' boarding school who vanish at Hanging Rock while on a Valentine's Day picnic and the effects the disappearances have on the school and the local community. Whether it's based on true events or not remains a mystery!
Then, stop in at Trentham Falls before moving onto Daylesford, with the first stop at the local convent gallery. Afterwards, you'll have free time to explore the village and purchase some lunch, before heading to Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm (subject to opening – they only open on selected days). Here you will find all different varieties of lavender products and have the chance to explore the property taking in all the different lavender grown onsite. Say hello to the farm animals, too, including Mirella the Highland cow, two emus, heaps of chickens, plus sheep and alpacas, before heading to the final stop of the day -the beautiful Daylesford Lake.
Mornington Peninsula: Coastal Bliss and Bites
The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful coastal resorts, farms, vineyards, and EXCEPTIONAL dining. Explore more than 60 cellar doors or check out the Penisula Hot Springs. Whatever you're feeling, book with Backpacker Deals and score up to 10% cash back per person to see more and do more.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR TOP MORNINGTON PENINSULA TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Yarra Valley: Wine and Fine Dining Paradise
Less than an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley offers lush landscapes, fine wines and plenty of great bites! Explore the beauty of Healesville on the iconic Puffing Billy, jump on a Yarra Valley wine tour (CLICK HERE TO SEE ONE OF OUR TOP PICKS) and more. There's so much to savour, so CLICK HERE to book your Yarra Valley tour!
Great Ocean Road: Majestic Coastal Scenery
The Great Ocean Road offers 243 kilometers of coastal beauty. From Warrnambool to Allansford, explore the Bay of Islands Coastal Park for striking limestone stacks as well as the famous 12 Apostles. Or, discover the region from a different perspective with this Skydive Great Ocean Road deal.
While in the area, we also recommend a visit to Timboon for delicious artisan treats and drive to Lorne, where you can enjoy a fresh seafood platter complete with ocean views.
