From the vibrant city life of Melbourne to the awe-inspiring wonder of the Grampians, the state of Victoria is bursting with fantastic things to see and do. And the very best way to make the most of each is to rent a travel van and take an Australian road trip around this incredible state.
Victoria has plenty of excellent campsites and campgrounds to stay at along the way. It’s easy to rent a Mighty travel van too. Pick up your pre-booked campervan from Mighty’s Melbourne branch. Then, kick off your Australian road trip in the city before moving on to the national parks, beaches, and townships of Victoria.
So, pack your bags, book your campervan, and get ready to explore Australia! To get you in the mood for planning your travel itinerary, let’s take a look at 20 of the best things to do in Victoria!
20 best things to see and do in Victoria, Australia
1. Twelve Apostles
Formed millions of years ago, the 12 Apostles rock formations stand along the shore of Port Campbell on Great Ocean Road, Princetown. Although there are only eight left standing, they’re still a sight to behold and one that thousands of campervan tourists add to their road trip itinerary planner each year.
2. Grampians National Park
An Australian road trip to the Grampians is high on the bucket list of must-do destinations for many motorhome travellers. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or just enjoy discovering new sights, the Grampians has something for everyone. One of the highlights of the Grampians region is the Pinnacle walk and lookout which offers unbeatable views. There are plenty of other activities on offer too, from fishing and kayaking to scenic drives and exploring heritage sites.
Sitting at the southernmost tip of Australia, Wilsons Promontory National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. Swim at the pristine beaches, camp at the family-friendly Tidal River Campground, and see some of Australia’s unique wildlife. If you’re into hiking, try scaling the granite peaks of Mount Bishop. Keen on snorkelling? Wilsons Prom is home to Victoria's largest marine national park.
Part of Zoos Victoria, Healesville Sanctuary is dedicated to the recovery of threatened native species. There are several animal encounters on offer, including close-ups with kangaroos, koalas, and dingoes! If you love birds, be sure to plan a Spirits of the Sky encounter where you’ll see some of Australia’s majestic birds fly in a spectacular presentation.
Healesville Sanctuary, on Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville, is just a one-hour journey from Melbourne CBD through the stunning Yarra Valley wine region.
5. Great Otway National Park
Stretching from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road, and up through the Otways hinterland, the Great Otway National Park is a must-see Australian attraction. The variety of things to do here is endless – from mountain biking through eucalypt forests to 4WD adventures! Stay overnight in one of the excellent campgrounds or campsites.
6. Loch Ard Gorge
Looking like a picture from a travel postcard, Loch Ard Gorge is one of the popular stopping points along Great Ocean Road. It’s located in the Port Campbell National Park, just three minutes from the world-famous 12 Apostles. The scenic gorge is home to an inlet with a picturesque bay of golden sand met by the clear blue ocean. Take in the incredible views, marvel at the natural rock formations, and stroll along one of the walking tracks.
7. Gippsland Lakes
The Gippsland Lakes encompasses a network of lakes, marshes and lagoons. The three main lakes – Lake King, Lake Victoria, and Lake Wellington – are all joined and fed by rivers that originate in the high country. The lakes are also home to several island wildlife havens including Raymond Island. This island has a koala colony and can be accessed from the shore. The region is also home to Ninety Mile Beach. This 90-mile stretch of pristine golden sand coastline is ideal for fishing, swimming, walking, and even dolphin and whale spotting.
If you’re coming from Melbourne, Gippsland is most easily accessed from the Monash Freeway (M1) which becomes the Princes Highway. Find out how to get to Gippsland Lakes.
8. Phillip Island
A short drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is an idyllic destination for campervan travellers. There’s something for everyone here from watching seals sun themselves on Seal Rocks to enjoying the fine foods and wines on offer at the cafes, restaurants, and markets. The island is renowned for its little penguin parade and the legendary Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. There are plenty of great campsites and caravan parks to choose from too!
Discover East Gippsland’s best-kept secret! The small coastal town of Mallacoota is surrounded by pristine waters and sandy beaches. Whether you’re into adventure or just want to unwind, this is the place to do it. For a relaxing morning. visit Mallacoota Markets, held from 8 am until 12 pm on the first Saturday of every month. Keen to get out on the water? Hire a kayak and head out to Gabo Island. Keep an eye out for migrating whales from April to October.
Take in the sights of one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls! At 84 metres high, Steavenson Falls is a sight to behold. The falls are lit up from dusk until 11 pm each night, powered by the electricity it generates in its cross-flow turbine.
The 700-metre walk to the falls starts at the Steavenson Falls car park, on Falls Road in Marysville – two hours drive from Melbourne. You can also access this walk via the Tree Fern Gully Trail.
11. Explore the city of Melbourne
From its city laneways and rooftop bars to its tiny villages and rich culture and heritage, Melbourne is a mecca for campervan travellers. Fancy a spot of shopping? There’s plenty of opportunity with markets, malls, and specialty stores. Keen on sport? Plan your trip to be at the Australian Open at Melbourne Park, or a cricket test match or a game of Australian football at the MCG. And if you’re keen on history, a visit to the Melbourne Museum is a must. While you’re there, plan a stay at the BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park.
12. Brighton Bathing Boxes
Built over a century ago, the Brighton bathing boxes – all 82 of them – will brighten up your Instagram feed! The boxes all retain their Victorian architectural features with timber framing, weatherboards and corrugated iron roofs. Individual licensees differentiate their bathing boxes with artistic and colour variations.
You’ll find the boxes on Dendy Street Beach, Brighton, which is located in the city of Bayside.
13. Buchan Caves Reserve
Buchan Caves Reserve, in Krauatungalung Country, is home to Victoria’s largest cave system. It’s also the ideal setting for a relaxing picnic and to set up for the night at the campground. We recommend booking a guided tour of Fairy Cave and Royal Cave where you can see breathtaking caverns and limestone formations. The reserve is also home to some of Australia’s unique wildlife including kangaroos and native birds.
Buchan Caves Reserve is located in the township of Buchan in East Gippsland. Located on Bruthen-Buchan Road, it’s approximately one hour’s drive northeast of Bairnsdale.
14. Dandenong Ranges
Located less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges offers some fantastic experiences for all ages. We suggest booking a ride on the Puffing Billy train, Australia’s oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railway. Relax as you travel past spectacular landscapes, see local wildlife, and breathe in the fresh air while sitting on the open-side carriages. There’s plenty more to see and do including winery tours, markets and shopping, arts and culture attractions, and fantastic cafes and restaurants.
Shadowing the Great Ocean Road, the Great Ocean Walk is one of the most iconic long-distance walks in Australia. The walk spans 104 km – do a small section or plan an extended stay and tick the entire walk off your bucket list! The walk starts in the seaside village of Apollo Bay. Along the way, you’ll see picturesque waterfalls, hidden coves, and the lush forest paths of the Great Otway National Park before finishing up at the 12 Apostles.
16. Gibson Steps
Gibson Steps in the Port Campbell National Park is the ideal spot to see the 12 Apostles. Take in the incredible views of the Gog and Magog limestone sea stacks from the lookout or bench. Then, head down to the beach via the 86 steps carved into the cliff face hundreds of years ago by a local settler.
17. Lake Wendouree
Ready to make a splash? Located in central Ballarat next to the botanical gardens, Lake Wendouree has plenty to see and do, both on and off the water. Try your luck fishing for a tasty trout for dinner by casting a line from the platforms around the lake. Head out on a kayak and enjoy the lake’s calm waters and picturesque setting. If you’re here on the weekend, check out the Lakeside Farmers Market on the second and fourth Saturday mornings of each month.
18. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures
See the rainforest from above! The 1.9 km Otway Fly Rainforest and Treetop Walk in Great Otway National Park offer unrivalled views of the unique beauty of the region’s flora and fauna. For a more thrilling experience, try the Zipline Tour where you’ll zip from one ‘cloud station’ to another connected by cables up to 30 metres above the forest floor. And if you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the magical Enchanted Forest!
19. Mornington Peninsula National Park
Get back to nature in the best way possible! The Mornington Peninsula National Park is simply magical. Encounter fascinating wildlife including bandicoots, wallabies and parrots. Head up to the top of Arthurs Seat to enjoy views of the peninsula's golden beaches below and the Melbourne skyline in the distance. For a truly unforgettable experience, join a tour and swim with dolphins and seals in the bay.
From Royal Jousts to Murder Mystery Dinner Nights, Kryal Castle is brimming with medieval fun! There’s even a Knight School, axe throwing, and archery adventures. Set yourself a challenge and take on the Dragon’s Labyrinth or dare to enter the Maze of Kryal Castle! And when tummies start to rumble, head to the Abbey Restaurant or the Ale House for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to stop at the Fairy Lolly Shop before you leave.
Kryal Castle is located just outside Ballarat, approximately one hour's drive from Melbourne.
Book your next Mighty adventure
There you have our recommendations for the top 20 things to do in Victoria! And what a selection to choose from – from cave exploration and koala encounters to rooftop bars and royal jousts!
And there really is no better way to see and do it all than to hire a Mighty motorhome. See the best Australian attractions while travelling in the comfort and freedom of a campervan.
