Hugging the shores of Bass Strait in Australia’s south-east, Victoria is the country’s most densely populated state. It’s home to magnificent coastal scenery, wildlife-filled national parks and charming regional centres, as well as the multicultural capital of Melbourne.
Things to do in Victoria
From the cultural museums of Melbourne to the alpine peaks of the High Country, Victoria has something that will appeal to all travellers.
Get cultured in Melbourne. Serving as the state capital, Melbourne is carved by atmospheric laneways home to independent boutiques, eclectic cafes and hidden bars. Admire the indigenous artwork exhibited at the National Gallery of Victoria, delve into the world of film and television at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, then dine overlooking the Yarra River at Southbank.
Drive the Great Ocean Road. Stretching for 240 kilometres between Torquay and Allansford, the Great Ocean Road hugs the spectacular cliffs and windswept beaches of the Southern Ocean. Photograph the dramatic limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles, watch the surfers in action at Bells Beach or soak up the scenery along the Surf Coast Walk.
Hike through Grampians National Park. Encompassing sandstone mountains and towering waterfalls, Grampians National Park is a wildlife-filled reserve in Victoria’s west. Learn about indigenous rock art at the Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre and be awed by MacKenzie Falls, then take in the breathtaking views across the Victoria Range from the Balconies.
Hit the ski slopes of Mount Buller and Mount Hotham. Located within Alpine National Park, these two peaks are home to legendary ski resorts that are renowned as winter sports destinations. Outside of the snow season, the park transforms into a paradise for mountain biking, horseback riding and abseiling and is traversed by the 655-kilometre-long Australian Alps Walking Track.
Getting around Victoria
Melbourne Airport is the main aviation gateway to Victoria and has flights to destinations across Australia, Asia and the Middle East. Long-distance trains connect from Adelaide and Sydney to Melbourne’s Southern Cross railway station while V-Line services travel to major regional centres. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the state.