Melbourne to Adelaide Itinerary

Begin your Australian family self-drive adventure by exploring Melbourne’s hidden laneways, vibrant street art, and charming arcades on a guided tour.

Begin your Australian family self-drive adventure in Melbourne. After settling into your accommodation, explore its hidden charms, from the Botanic Gardens to vibrant street art and lively city squares. Join the Hidden Secrets Lanes and Arcades walking tour, where a guide leads you through quirky cafés, colourful murals, and striking architecture, sharing fascinating stories along the way. Enjoy indulgent stops, including a treat at a local chocolate salon, and soak up Melbourne’s unique atmosphere. This guided tour is the perfect introduction to the city’s culture, character, and hidden delights, making your first day truly memorable.

Accommodation: Melbourne - 2 Nights

Experience Mornington Peninsula with locals on a small-group journey blending cool-climate wines, coastal scenery, and natural relaxation. The day begins in Melbourne at the Melbourne Arts Centre with a barista coffee before travelling south to Arthur's Seat for a short bush walk and sweeping views over Port Phillip Bay and the city skyline. Continue to a Red Hill vineyard for wine tasting and a seasonal grazing lunch highlighting local produce and regional flavours. In the afternoon, unwind at Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs, soaking in geothermal pools surrounded by native bushland. A restorative escape combining scenic discovery, food and wine, and unhurried wellness in a beautiful coastal region.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Collect your rental car and get ready to embark on one of the world's greatest coastal drives: the Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road Touring Route has a number of scenic lookouts all the way from Torquay to the border of Victoria and South Australia. Make your way along the coast to Bells Beach to check out the amazing surf and capture some spectacular views of the coastline and the Southern Ocean.

Be sure to stop at the town of Anglesea and visit the golf course: it's famous for the kangaroos lounging under trees and hopping across the greens! Tonight you will stay in the beautiful village of Apollo Bay. The Bay is referred to as the “Paradise by the Sea” and is a great place for those who love the beaches and water sports.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 200 km | 124 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Apollo Bay - 1 Night

Continue along the Great Ocean Road for a scenic 3 hour drive through the lush Otway National Park, pausing at Port Campbell to view the magnificent 12 Apostles.

The 12 Apostles are towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean, celebrated as one of Australia’s most stunning natural wonders. Though only eight remain visible, their rugged beauty is enhanced as sunlight paints them in vibrant colours throughout the day. From the viewing platform, keep an eye out for marine life in the sea or caves below, or see the formations up close on an optional helicopter flight. Continue along the Shipwreck Coast, where historic wrecks mark the shoreline, before arriving in the charming fishing port of Port Fairy for an evening of local maritime history.

Approximate Distance: 187 km | 117 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Port Fairy - 2 Nights

Discover Port Fairy’s historic charm, coastal activities, and rich maritime heritage on a day of exploration and relaxation.

Explore the charming fishing village of Port Fairy, with its historic cottages, stone churches, and towering Norfolk pines. Watch fishermen unload fresh abalone and crayfish on the wharf, or get out on the water with a surf lesson, fishing trip, or cruise to Lady Julia Percy Island’s seal colony. Stroll through boutiques, antique stores, and art shops, or discover the town’s maritime history on the Port Fairy Heritage Walk. Nearby, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum in Warrnambool offers a glimpse into life for the Shipwreck Coast’s first settlers, rounding out a day of history and coastal charm.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Crossing the state border into South Australia, your journey continues to the volcanic landscapes of Mt Gambier.

The geological wonders of Mt Gambier are well worth exploring. This dormant volcano houses the mysterious 70-metre-deep Blue Lake: its waters appear steel grey during winter, turning a startling shade of cobalt blue in the summer months.

The Umpherston Sinkhole may not have the prettiest name, but don't be put off: it's a spectacular sunken garden filled with flowers and greenery, hidden in a giant crater in the centre of Mt Gambier town. Created from a collapsed limestone cave, it must be seen to be believed.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 155 km | 95 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours

Accommodation: Mount Gambier - 1 Night

Discover South Australia’s highlights, from Coonawarra’s vineyards to Robe’s beaches, history, and stunning coastal sunsets.

Explore the vineyards of Coonawarra, South Australia’s premier red wine region, and sample local produce along the way. Stop optionally at the World Heritage–listed Naracoorte Caves, home to spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Continue to the charming coastal town of Robe, known for long white-sand beaches, fresh crayfish, and its Gold Rush history marked by the Chinese Monument. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the jetty, watching waves crash beneath your feet and soaking in a stunning South Australian sunset—a perfect blend of wine, history, and coastal beauty.

Approximate Distance: 175 km | 109 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours

Accommodation: Robe - 1 Night

Cruise along the coast road to South Australia's capital: Adelaide, the "City of Churches".

Cosmopolitan Adelaide is filled to the brim with culture, flavours, events, and entertainment. With spacious boulevards and vibrant inner-city districts, sophisticated architecture and lush gardens, South Australia's capital has it all.

History buffs will love the staggering variety of exquisite churches around every corner, many dating back to the 19th century. Grab a bite to eat at Adelaide Central Market: this bustling hub has over 80 stalls offering cheese, seafood, patisseries, and artisan produce. It's a fantastic place to indulge in a spot of people-watching.

Adelaide is known as the Festival Capital of Australia - from comedy and cabaret to food and fashion, there's always something on no matter when you visit.

Approximate Distance: 336 km | 209 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Adelaide - 2 Nights

Discover the best of Kangaroo Island on this guided full-day tour with scenic coach and ferry transfers from Adelaide. Explore the island’s stunning landscapes, encounter native wildlife, and indulge in its thriving food and wine scene. Visit Raptor Domain for an up-close bird experience, tour Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, taste local drops at Kangaroo Island Ciders and False Cape Wines, and sample sweet treats at Clifford’s Honey Farm. Take in the breathtaking views at Pennington Bay and meet passionate local producers along the way. After a day of sipping, tasting, and exploring, relax on your return ferry and coach journey back to Adelaide.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Your Melbourne to Adelaide family adventure ends here in Adelaide today, and we know you will leave with magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience as you board your onward flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast