Victoria’s rolling farmlands and forested mountains are framed by the mighty Murray River to the north and rugged coastline to the south.
The state’s capital, Melbourne, is Australia's second-largest and most cultural city, a place where old and new, funky and chic, classical and cutting edge blend together effortlessly.
Heritage meets high rise along the city center’s main street, Collins Street. From the jumble of modern architecture and museums of Federation Square, stroll along the Yarra River at Southbank. Browse the stalls of the covered Queen Victoria Market or buy your gourmet treats at the Italian hub of Lygon Street.
Leave Melbourne behind to visit the coastal playground that is the southern Mornington Peninsula, with its colorful shacks perched along golden beaches.
To the west, tour the famous Great Ocean Road and marvel at the soaring limestone stacks known as the Twelve Apostles. Experience the excitement of Victoria’s gold rush in the replica town of Sovereign Hill near Ballarat. Enjoy a walk through the Grampians, a mountain range of craggy granite peaks and abundant wildlife.
In the north, take a step back in time in the quaint pioneer town of Echuca. Drift along the scenic Murray, Australia's longest river, on a historic paddle steamer.
Tour the Yarra Valley vineyards northeast of Melbourne and follow the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail.
The eastern Alpine region turns into a delightful winter wonderland around May. You can base yourself in the resort town of Falls Creek, a fun-packed ski resort. Closer to Melbourne, ski the gentle slopes of Mount Baw Baw or test your skills on Mount Hotham and Mount Buller. Outside the wintersports season, cycle or hike the scenic trails of the Alpine region and enjoy a train ride along the Walhalla Goldfields Railway.
Along the Gippsland coast, cross the bridge to Phillip Island, where special wildlife encounters await at the Koala Conservation Centre and the Penguin Parade.
