Discover Victoria’s must-visit towns beyond Melbourne—coastal gems, wine country escapes, historic goldfields, and nature-rich adventures.
Introduction
Victoria offers more than just Melbourne—its regional towns are trending in 2025, boasting vibrant culture, heritage, stunning nature, and unique experiences. Whether you seek relaxing spa retreats, quaint gold mining towns, or dramatic coastal backdrops, these must-visit destinations capture the heart of Victoria beyond the city.
Country Charms and Historic Goldfields
Ballarat & Bendigo: Goldfields Glory
Two of Victoria’s most iconic towns, Ballarat and Bendigo, are steeped in gold rush history. Wander Ballarat’s preserved streetscape, explore Sovereign Hill’s living museum, and admire the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Bendigo entices with its grand historic architecture, thriving arts scene, and renowned Bendigo Art Gallery.
- Ballarat: Family-friendly festivals, lakeside walks, vibrant cafes—plus the Eureka Centre for rich local history.
- Bendigo: Heritage trams, farmers markets, outstanding dining, and hands-on gold mine tours.
Other goldfields treasures include Castlemaine (famed for arts and food), Maldon (Australia’s first “notable town” for its historic buildings), and Clunes (renowned for its annual literary festival and stunning main street).
Daylesford & Trentham: Spa Country Retreats
The twin towns of Daylesford and Trentham anchor Victoria’s renowned spa country, just 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne. Daylesford is famous for its mineral springs, luxury day spas, Lake Daylesford, boutique galleries, and slow-food dining. Autumn here is especially magical with vibrant foliage and events.
Nearby Trentham—a 2025 Top Tourism Town winner—is beloved for country pubs, local markets, scenic Trentham Falls, and rolling green countryside. Both towns offer a tranquil, rejuvenating getaway amid scenic forest and regional hospitality.
Coastal Escapes, Wine Country & Natural Beauty
Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley & Phillip Island
For wine, beaches, and gourmet indulgence, Mornington Peninsula sparkles with seaside towns like Sorrento, Portsea, and Red Hill—perfect for relaxing by the bay, indulging in cellar door tastings, or soaking in thermal hot springs. Yarra Valley lures with world-class wineries and Healesville wildlife sanctuary, while nearby Healesville offers a multitude of foodie delights and forest walks.
Phillip Island—just 90 minutes from Melbourne—is famed for its penguin parade, dramatic coastal hikes, and surfing at Cape Woolamai. It’s a top family destination, known for memorable wildlife encounters and pristine beaches.
The Great Ocean Road & Grampians
The Great Ocean Road region delivers legendary coastal scenery and charming towns:
- Lorne: Surf, chic cafes, and lively arts.
- Apollo Bay: Gateway to lush rainforest walks and ocean views.
- Port Fairy: Historic charm, vibrant festivals, and renowned for whale watching.
- Warrnambool: A 2025 Top Tourism Town winner; enjoy maritime history and wild Southern Right whale sightings.
Inland, the Grampians National Park and its village of Halls Gap await, offering epic hikes, Indigenous rock art, and daily kangaroo encounters. Mount Beauty, another 2025 award-winner, is ideal for lovers of mountain biking, fishing, and snow sports in the Victorian Alps.
Unique Regional Experiences and Hidden Gems
Beechworth, Kyneton & Beyond
- Beechworth: One of Victoria’s prettiest towns, famous for its gold rush-era architecture, excellent bakeries, and regional cycling trails.
- Kyneton: Culinary hotspots, botanic gardens, and thriving weekend markets make this Macedon Ranges town a magnet for foodies.
Other gems include Healesville (for native wildlife and Yarra Valley produce), Maldon (step back in time), Marysville (for waterfall walks and forest drives), and Fish Creek—a creative haven by Gippsland’s wild coast.
Don’t miss:
- Halls Gap: Gateway to the Grampians and home to art galleries and local breweries.
- Dookie and Dimboola: True small-town vibes for those seeking authenticity and peace2.
Victoria’s west and northeast brim with beautiful villages, heritage towns, friendly locals, delicious local produce, and world-class outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
Victoria’s must-visit towns offer a rich blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and welcoming community—far beyond the bustle of Melbourne. From the coast to the high country, each regional gem promises new discoveries for every traveller or new resident. Start planning your road trip or weekend escape to experience these captivating Victorian destinations firsthand in 2025.
