5 Best day trips from Melbourne (perfect for nomads & backpackers)
Melbourne is the lively heart of Victoria, full of culture, music, food and creative energy. Still, even the most exciting city feels better after a small escape. If you want a quick excursion, an easy adventure day, or a simple break away, these day trip ideas for Melbourne give you nature, beaches, wildlife and great food. Each place delivers unique experiences without needing a long journey.
St Kilda
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: 7km
- Travel time: 40 mins.
- How to get to St Kilda from Melbourne: Tram number 3 East Malvern route, number 96 Elizabeth Street and Bourke Street route, number 6 or 16 Swanston Street route.
- Best for: A beach vibe without leaving the city
- Top sights: St Kilda Pier; Luna Park; St Kilda Botanical Garden
St Kilda sits just outside the central area and suits travellers who want a short break rather than an entire day on transport. This seaside district grows trendier each year with small bars, cafes and well known cake shops.
Enjoy St Kilda activities with a calm beachwalk, wander around Luna Park or relax on the pier. Little Penguins live here as well, so you may spot a few during daylight or while the sky darkens. A great pick if time is limited and you still want a refreshing day trip.
The Dandenongs
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: 60km
- Travel time: 2 hours 50 mins.
- How to get there: Train via Melbourne Central toward Lilydale then the Belgrave Line toward Monbulk Secondary College.
- Best for: A peaceful woodland escape.
- Top sights: Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden, Dandenong Ranges; Puffing Billy Steam Train.
The Dandenongs offer cool air, rich greenery and forest scenery. Hikers enjoy more than two hundred walking paths with famous tracks including the well known 1,000 Steps.
Many visitors also ride the Puffing Billy steam train for relaxed sightseeing while tall mountain ash surrounds the route. The area suits anyone who values nature, wildlife and quiet environments during their day trip to Melbourne.
Healesville
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: 65km
- Travel time: 2 hours 20 mins
- How to get there: Train toward Lilydale then the route that continues along Maroondah Highway and Green Street.
- Best for: Wine tasting experience
- Top sights: Healesville Sanctuary; Maroondah Reservoir Park
Healesville acts as the main gateway into Yarra Valley wine country and attracts travellers who want gourmet food, easy scenery and local wildlife. Cafes and bakeries serve classic treats while cosy restaurants offer heavier meals.
The sanctuary provides close encounters with Australian animals and the surrounding valley features rolling land, vineyards and quiet corners perfect for slow travel.
Warburton
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: 76km
- Travel time: 2 hours.
- How to get there: Train toward Lilydale then the service that continues along Warburton Highway
- Best for: Hiking and cycling in the heart of nature.
- Top sights: Warburton Redwood Forest; Rainforest Gallery
Warburton is a calm riverside town favoured by cyclists who ride the 38km Warburton Rail Trail. Tall trees, clear streams and fresh air create a peaceful atmosphere. The Rainforest Gallery walkway sits above lush greenery and gives an elevated view of plants and wildlife.
The Redwood Forest is another highlight for visitors who enjoy calm walks and photography. Warburton also provides summer tracks near Mount Donna Buang along with simple snow play areas during winter months.
Mornington Peninsula
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: 72km
- Travel time: 1 hour 11 mins
- How to get there: Drive or take a train toward Frankston then connect with local buses for small towns across the region.
- Best for: Admire nature beauty and relax by the beach
- Top sights: Arthurs Seat; Cape Schanck.
Mornington Peninsula delivers coastal walks, warm beaches, thermal springs and stunning clifftop views. The calm pace suits backpackers who want a low stress day trip for Melbourne. Enjoy a long soak at Peninsula Hot Springs or try the new Alba Thermal Springs located nearby. With wildlife, local markets and scenic lookouts, the peninsula rewards every type of traveller.
Need a relaxed stay by the beach while in Melbourne?
Your day trips will feel completed with travel planning support by our partner - Cheap Az Travel, a small independent agency that helps backpackers secure low cost excursions and simple adventure ideas for the region. This combination creates an ideal setup for nomads, backpackers and long term travellers who want comfort, community and smooth trip planning in one place. Travellers can also use our promo code PINT for saving on their trips.
After a full day of exploring follow our backpacker’s guide to Melbourne, a calm place near the water fulfills every adventure. Pint On Punt Backpackers in St Kilda offers a friendly setting, easy access to the beach, and an atmosphere that suits nomads, backpackers and anyone hoping for a simple, comfortable stay near the coastline. The location places you close to vibrant bars, leafy gardens, local food spots and the scenic St Kilda Pier, which means you can enjoy the area at your own pace once your day trip ends.
Book directly on our website between March 2nd and March 9th, 2026, and use promo code GP05 to enjoy 5% off your stay. Don't miss this Melbourne beachside accommodation, offering the best location near the Formula 1 Grand Prix excitement.
