Brisbane to Melbourne: The Perfect Five-Day Itinerary

From sleepy beach towns to sheep-dotted farm scapes, a Brisbane to Melbourne road trip offers the best of Australia’s eastern states.

Let’s not kid ourselves. Driving across three states isn’t easy, no matter how you carve it. Road tripping from the Queensland capital to the Victorian capital is more than 1500 kilometres of mostly highway handling, and there’s an awful lot of same-same Victorian countryside to get through.

But if you’ve got a spare five or so days, the Brisbane to Melbourne trek (which navigates the Pacific Motorway, Pacific Highway and the Hume Highway) is a total charmer.

From uncrowded beaches and coastal trails to exceptional paddock-to-plate dining and incredible landmarks, pilgrimage pit stops offer the best of Australia’s beach and rural locales. Take our list of absolute must-stops to make it well worth your while.

Brisbane

Let the bright lights of the Sunshine State’s capital guide a full day and night of big smoke exploration. No Queensland visit should avoid a Brisbane deep dive as the city tightens and brightens its entertainment, dining and accommodation offerings in the countdown to hosting the 2032 Olympic Games. Whether you’re indulging in world-class Brisbane restaurants, the tourist-frenzied South Bank, or beyond, there’s no shortage of wonderous things to do.

Must-see in Brisbane: The Howard Smith Wharves is a burgeoning locale set right beneath picturesque Story Bridge. Go there for the city’s buzziest eateries and bars right along the Brisbane River.

The Story Bridge in Brisbane with Howard Smith Wharves in focus — Dine beneath the picturesque Story Bridge at Felons Brewing Co, Howard Smith Wharves. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Brisbane accommodation: Take a night off from your Brisbane to Melbourne road trip to experience The Calile. It earned itself a spot on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Hotels list in 2024 and you only have to glance at the breathtaking urban oasis to see why.

an outdoor pool at The Calile Hotel — The Calile Hotel gives off Miami beachside vibes. (Image: The Calile Hotel)

The Gold Coast

City hop about an hour down the M1 to the Gold Coast, a holiday hot spot that’s seen tremendous growth over the past 20 years. You’ll still find Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach swarming with sun-seeking visitors but the 70-kilometre stretch is also home to a southern end that’s flowing with trendy beachside suburbs, epic waterfront bars, beautiful subtropical greenery and killer cafes.

the Surfers Paradise skyline, Gold Coast — Sun seekers make a beeline for Surfers Paradise. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Must-see on the Gold Coast: Burleigh Heads, located at the northern start of the Gold Coast’s southern tip, has it all. The vibe is electric, and the people are beautiful so prepare to play well into the wee hours.

picnic on Burleigh Hill — Burleigh Heads offers a different vibe to Surfers and Broadbeach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Gold Coast accommodation: The Langham Gold Coast in Surfers Paradise offers pure indulgence in the heart of it. Don’t miss dinner at T’Ang Court, the hotel chain’s Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, where fine dining excels like nowhere else on the coast.

two women standing by the balcony at The Langham Gold Coast in Surfers Paradise — The Langham Gold Coast offers beachfront views in Surfers Paradise. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Brunswick Heads

An hour down the coastline from the Gold Coast is Brunswick Heads, a great option if you’re keen to sniff out the country’s most exciting up-and-coming beach towns. This chilled hot spot is brimming with excellent coffee and dining experiences — you’ll want to hit Park Street and Mullumbimby Street for good concentration. The sheltered Torakina Beach, just five minutes away from the centre of town, is similarly heavenly.

Join an eco-cruise on the beautiful Brunswick River, part of Cape Byron Marine Park.

Aerial view of Byron Bay Eco river cruise on the beautiful Brunswick River, part of Cape Byron Marine Park. — Join an eco-cruise on the beautiful Brunswick River, part of Cape Byron Marine Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must-see in Brunswick Heads: Pull out your togs and dedicate serious swimming time to Simpsons Creek off the Brunswick River. It’s crystal-clear and begging to be enjoyed, especially if you’re up for a kayak.

lush greenery surrounding Simpsons Creek — Simpsons Creek is a bit of a hidden gem.

Brunswick Heads accommodation: For a retro California motel fix, and the ultimate picture-perfect selfies, choose The Sails Motel & Pool Club .

the pool with sunloungers at The Sails Motel & Pool Club — Sails delivers a retro-cool motel stay. (Image: Jonny Valiant)

Byron Bay

There’s more to Australia’s very own Hollywood than Hemsworth-spotting. Byron Bay, just over an hour’s drive past the Queensland-New South Wales border, is northern NSW’s preeminent home to pristine beach bumming, farm-to-fork dining and boutique shopping. And despite the glamour, it manages to retain those free-spirited hippy roots so the vibe is chirpy without an ounce of exclusivity (unlike its property prices, which unfortunately don’t follow suit).

Must-see in Byron Bay: Clumsy on a board? Don’t let it deter you from visiting The Pass, a world-famous surfing spot littered with beautiful rock pools that are so breathtaking, it’s spiritual.

an aerial view of surfers at The Pass, Byron Bay — Visit The Pass to hit the waves. (Image: Destination NSW)

Byron Bay accommodation: Break up your Brisbane to Melbourne journey with a night at Hotel Marvell , a sleek laneway destination with a pumping rooftop pool.

the rooftop pool at Hotel Marvell — Hotel Marvell offers relaxed luxury in the heart of Byron. (Image: Hotel Marvell)

Yamba

It’s earned a reputation for being Northern NSW’s next big thing but there’s still plenty of laidback charm about Yamba. Hit the M1 from Byron and drive about 1.5 hours to experience its gorgeous sun-drenched beaches (there are five main ones to tackle), fresh produce markets, hip locals and impressive foodie scene.

Must-see in Yamba: The lush greenery of Yuraygir National Park will leave you gobsmacked, plus it’s a popular place to beach camp if you’re thinking of making a night of it.

Spot kangaroos at Yuraygir National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Yamba accommodation: Prefer four solid walls when it’s time to hit the hay? Go for The Surf Yamba , one of the best accommodation picks in Yamba overlooking Main Beach.

Bedroom The Surf Yamba — Feel the sea breeze as you sleep at The Surf Yamba. (Image: Elise Hassey)

Coffs Harbour

Knock 2.5 hours off your Brisbane to Melbourne road trip by motoring from Yamba to Coffs Harbour. Whether it’s the iconic 13-metre-long Big Banana, located right off the Pacific Highway, The Clog Barn , which is exactly what it sounds like, one of its uncrowded beaches or its relaxed jetty precinct, there’s always a great reason to spend more than a couple of hours in this friendly just-off-the-highway pit stop.

Must-see in Coffs Harbour: Overdid The Big Banana as a kid? Spend more time at Jetty Beach House , one of the country’s most scenic waterfront watering holes.

Interior of Jetty Beach House in Coffs Harbour — Enjoy bistro dining by the beach at Jetty Beach House.

Coffs Harbour accommodation: Opal Cove Resort has a great pool with water views as well as a fabulous day spa to lean into.

the pool at Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour — The expansive pool is a standout feature of a stay at Opal Cove Resort. (Image: Destination NSW)

Port Macquarie

A NSW beach town that’s come a significant way in recent years, Port Macquarie is thriving as a tourist magnet along any Brisbane to Melbourne journey. Just over 1.5 hours from Coffs, there’s beach beauty galore (17 sandy spots in total), stellar restaurants and cafes and diverse walking trails to take advantage of, plus the locals are endlessly chilled.

the riverfront dining at Whalebone Wharf across Hastings River — Feast on seafood at Whalebone Wharf. (Image: Destination NSW)

Must-see in Port Macquarie: Navigating the renowned break wall will throw out views of the Hastings River and ever-memorable holiday vibes. And if it’s a seafood feast you’re craving, don’t miss Whalebone Wharf right on the river.

Seafood dish served at Whalebone Wharf, PortMacquarie. — Expect a refined dining experience. (Image: Destination NSW)

Port Macquarie accommodation: For a cosy hotel stay with all the creature comforts, Sails Port Macquarie is a safe choice.

Sails Port Macquarie is set on the Hastings River — Sails Port Macquarie boasts a prime position on the Hastings River.

Newcastle

Roll down the Pacific Highway for another two hours and 45 minutes and you’ll reach thriving Newcastle, famed for its epic surf beaches but also home to a vibrant cafe and dining scene. And while there are plenty of opportunities to indulge, the beach town’s historical buildings and beautiful nature reserves keep the whole vibe grounded and relaxed.

Must-see in Newcastle: Mereweather Beach is spectacular, even when it’s too cold to dive into its enormous Ocean Baths. Gazing out at fearless board riders doing their thing in the surf is nothing short of mesmerising.

people relaxing in the Merewether Ocean Baths in Newcastle — The historic Merewether Ocean Baths is a must-visit. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle accommodation: Seize the opportunity to kick up your heels inside an always-excellent Crystalbrook hotel. Crystalbrook Kingsley is typically chic, character-filled and highly coveted.

the room at Crystalbrook Kingsley — Check into the chic Crystalbrook Kingsley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Crystalbrook Kingsley)

Sydney

It just wouldn’t be a Brisbane to Melbourne journey without thoroughly exploring your magnificent almost-halfway point: Sydney. The Harbour City glistens from every angle, whether you’re soaking up iconic landmarks in Circular Quay and The Rocks (hello Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge), delighting in a melting pot of international cuisines, frolicking in its golden sand beaches or exploring some of the most scenic coastal trails on earth.

Must-see in Sydney: Tick off the Coat Hanger and those white(ish) sails before hitting Bondi. The beachside suburb is full of beautiful people and beautiful vistas, so you’ll be spoiled for eye candy.

an aerial view of Bondi Beach — Swim in the turquoise waters of Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sydney accommodation: After nearly four years of construction, W Sydney is as splendid as everyone had hoped.

an aerial view of W Sydney — W Sydney is a sleek waterfront hotel on the harbour. (Image: Destination NSW)

Gundagai

It’s time to hustle along the Hume to count horses, sheep and cows lazing about grassy hills. Stay behind the wheel for roughly four hours and you’ll reach Gundagai, a quaint town with bucketloads of charm and heritage buildings. If you’re travelling with kids, stretch their legs out at the impressive playground on Sheridan Street. It’s right next to the library (another kid-friendly boredom buster) and opposite a good concentration of supermarkets.

Must-see in Gundagai: You’ll really need coffee after the longest stint of your journey so get the suburb’s finest blend (Pablo & Rusty) at The Coffee Pedaler , right next door to the Australian Pen Museum on Sheridan Street. The service is exceptional and a table out on the footpath puts you right in the action.

the countryside view of Gundagai — Pass sheep-filled pastures on the drive. (Image: Tyson Mayr)

Gundagai accommodation: Farm accommodation doesn’t get any more special than the eco huts at Kimo Estate . A-frame builds, panoramic views and outdoor hot tubs are just what the doctor ordered along your Brisbane to Melbourne trail.

an A-frame eco hut at Kimo Estate with a woodfired hot tub — Stay in an A-frame eco hut at Kimo Estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

Wangaratta

Cross into Victoria as you drive about 2.5 hours to Wangaratta, a country town with a shockingly trendy foodie scene. There are loads of lovely boutiques to be browsed, and some great country pubs, but you’ll need to dedicate serious time to the stretch of eateries along Faithfull Street. It’s the once-sleepy town’s hottest scene.

Must-see in Wangaratta: Caféprevue is situated on Faithfull, overlooking Ovens River so you’re immersed in a scenic riverbank as flavour-packed dishes roll out of the kitchen. Grab a spot outside on the deck if you find wrangle one.

Wangaratta accommodation: If you’re looking for clean and tidy convenience, Quest Wangaratta on Docker Street is always a good choice.

the bedroom interior at Quest Wangaratta on Docker Street — Quest Wangaratta features a chic interior.

Melbourne

Here’s cheers to reaching the end of an epic escape — now it’s time to let your hair down. Melbourne is Australia’s culture capital, overflowing with ceiling-smashing culinary experiences, world-class accommodation, the country’s best coffee, spectacular galleries and museums and more. Just one step into any one of its wonderful suburbs will grant you deep multiculturalism and boundless surprises.

the National Gallery of Victoria — The National Gallery of Victoria is Australia’s oldest public art museum. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Must-see in Melbourne: The CBD’s laneways are an absolute must-experience. Punch AC/DC Lane, Centre Place, Degraves Street and Hosier Lane into your Maps and wander the itty-bitty retail and dining gems from day to night.

two people walking along the AC/DC Lane, Melbourne — AC/DC Lane is named after the iconic Australian band. (Image: Visit Victoria/Street art: Mike Makatron)

Melbourne accommodation: Soak up that laneway life at voco Melbourne Central , a luxury hotel in the heart of the city that’s blessed with a rooftop plunge pool to help you dial up the glamour.

the rooftop plunge pool at voco Melbourne Central — Find unbeatable rooftop views from the voco Melbourne Central.

Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

“Keeping craft alive is a noble cause,” says Jess Cameron-Wootten, a charming and passionate master leathercrafter and cordwainer, who handmakes traditional leather boots and shoes in Ballarat’s old Gun Cotton Goods Store.

Ballarat was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art, and today it’s a place where craft traditions converge with contemporary needs. Nothing quite captures this convergence as a visit to Wootten , the workshop and store of Jess Cameron-Wootten and his partner Krystina Menegazzo.

heritage buildings in Ballarat — Ballarat’s streets are lined with heritage buildings. (Image: Matt Dunne)

Jess’s father was an artisan bootmaker, or cordwainer. Now Jess and Krys and their small team of artisans continue the tradition, but with a modern spin. The company’s boots and shoes, made completely from scratch, are renowned for their quality and longevity. Wootten also craft shoes, bags, belts, leather aprons, wallets and more.

Cosy beanies, gloves, alpaca socks, “unbreakable” shoelaces and various other goods – many from local craftspeople and small-scale makers – fill the shop’s shelves. “We’re always happy to support a mate,” says Jess. “People love to see the workshop and where things are made. Our clients care about quality and sustainability,” Krys comments. The company slogan ‘Made for generations’ says it all.

Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery. (Image: Tara Moore)

For Ruby Pilven, craft is also in the DNA – both her parents were potters and with her latest porcelain ceramics, Ruby’s young daughter has been helping add colour to the glazes. “I grew up watching my parents in the workshop – I’ve always been doing ceramics,” she says, although her Visual Arts degree was in printmaking. That printmaking training comes through particularly in the rich layering of pattern. Her audacious colour, unexpected shapes and sudden pops of 12-carat gold are contemporary, quirky – and joyful.

You can see Ruby’s handcrafted ceramics, and work by other local and regional artists, at Ross Creek Gallery , a light-filled space surrounded by serene bushland, across from the mudbrick house her parents built in the 1980s. A 10-minute drive from Ballarat, it’s a tangible link to the region’s well-established craft traditions.

How Ballarat is preserving the past

artisans making crafts at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades holds workshops to preserve crafts and skills.

While tradition is ongoing, there’s a danger that many of these specific type of skills and knowledge are fading as an older generation passes on. Step forward the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades .

The seven purpose-built studios occupy a fabulous modern building adjacent to Sovereign Hill, with state-of-the-art facilities, enormous windows and landscape views across to Warrenheip and Wadawurrung Country.

artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — Check out artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

Practising artisans run hands-on workshops. Fancy making your own medieval armour? Or trying your hand at blacksmithing, spinning wool, plaiting leather, weaving cane or craft a knife? Book a class and learn how. “It’s about creating awareness and also sharing knowledge and skills before they are lost,” explains Deborah Klein, the centre manager.

A city steeped in food and flavours

Chef José Fernandez preparing American streetfood at Pancho — Chef José Fernandez creates vibrant South American street food at Pancho. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

One skill that hasn’t been lost is that of cooking. Ballarat’s burgeoning gastronomy scene runs the gamut from an artisan bakery (the atmospheric 1816 Bakehouse) to cool coffee shops, speakeasy cocktail bars and distilleries to fine-dining venues. But I’m still surprised to find Pancho , José Fernandez’s South American street food restaurant, serving fried cheese tequeños, fiery fish tacos, Argentinian grilled chicken.

The room is as lively as the food – a whirl of colour filled with gifted and thrifted paintings, photos, tchotchkes (trinkets), plants. There’s a Mexican abuela aesthetic going on here. Even before the music and mezcal kick in, it’s fun. Heads up on the drinks menu – an authentic selection of mezcal, tequila, South American wines and Mexican cerveza.

a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat — Enjoy a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

The spirit is willing, so after lunch we head towards the gold rush-era Ballarat train station and across the line to the old 1860s Goods Shed for Itinerant Spirits . At one end, a massive German copper still looms behind a wall of glass. The fit-out embraces deep olive-green tones, original bluestone walls, steamer trunks as coffee tables, heritage timber floors, oversized lamp shades and cognac-hued modernist leather seating.

the Itinerant Spirits Distillery & Cocktail Bar, Ballarat — The distillery operates from an old goods shed. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Gallivanter Gin, Vansetter Vodka and Wayfarer Whiskey – the key spirits distilled – star at the bar. The spirits are crafted using grains from the Wimmera Mallee region, and native botanicals foraged in the Grampians. Seasonal cocktails are inspired by local people and places (I loved The Headland, inspired by Sovereign Hill and flavoured with old-fashioned raspberry drops). Sample the spirits, and join a cocktail masterclass or a distillery tour. It’s a seductive setting – you’ll likely find yourself ordering a charcuterie platter or pizza as the evening progresses.

The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

one of the rooms at Hotel Vera, Ballarat — The rooms at Hotel Vera have a contemporary style. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

New lives for old buildings keeps history alive. Vera, Ballarat’s boutique five-star hotel, has taken it to the next level: it’s a palimpsest, a subtle layering of early 1900s and 1930s Art Deco architecture with a sleek new wing. There are seven spacious suites, each a dramatically different colour, with designer chairs, blissful bathrooms. High-end pottery and hand-picked artworks imbue the spaces with personality.

Vera’s intimate, award-winning restaurant, Babae, is subtly theatrical with sheer drapes and gallery lighting, its bespoke timber furniture and brass-edged marble bench setting the stage for food with a sharp regional focus. “We have goat’s cheese from a local supplier, handmade granola from local Vegas & Rose, truffles from nearby Black Cat Truffles, fresh food from our garden, and regional wines,” says joint owner David Cook-Doulton.

Celebrating the local makers, bakers, growers and producers, and the master chefs who work their magic is all part of the rich tapestry that links Ballarat’s history to its vibrant present.

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

It’s 90 minutes from Melbourne, either on the Western Freeway, or hop on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.

Staying there

Hotel Vera is a centrally located Art Deco boutique hotel. Consider Hotel Provincial , which feels like a sleek country house, but with its own restaurant, Lola.

a contemporary room at Hotel Provincial, Ballarat — Hotel Provincial has country house vibes.

Eating there

dining at Mr Jones, Ballarat — The table is set at Mr Jones. (Image: Tony Evans/ Visit Victoria)

Culinary whiz Damien Jones helms Chef’s Hat winner Mr Jones Dining with quiet assurance. His modern Asian food is deceptively simple with deep, intense flavours. Low-key, laid-back ambience, lovely staff, thoughtful wine list.

Cocktails are definitely a thing in Ballarat. Reynard (fox in French) is foxy indeed, a clubby space with top-notch cocktails and small bites. Grainery Lane is extravagantly OTT with its massive 1880s bar, myriad chandeliers, brass gin still, Asian-inspired food and lavish cocktails.

dining at Grainery Lane, Ballarat — Dining at Grainery Lane.

Playing there

a laneway filled with artworks in Ballarat — An artful laneway in the city. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Check out local design legend Travis Price’s wall murals in Hop Lane with its colourful canopy of brollies, or in Main Street. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s off-site Backspace Gallery showcases early-career artists in a stylish, contemporary space. First Nations-owned and run Perridak Arts connects people to place, bringing together art and crafts in this gallery/shop.

a woman admiring artworks at Perridak Arts Gallery — Perridak Arts is a First Nations-run gallery. (Image: Tony Evans)

The wineries of the Pyrenees are close at hand with their welcoming cellar doors and robust reds. Join a behind-the-scenes tour at the Centre for Gold Rush Collections .

Don’t forget the giant bluestone Kryal Castle , ‘the land of adventure’, for a little medieval magic, and not just for the kids: get ready for Highland-style feasting, jousting, even overnight stays.

East coast marvels: must-stops on a Brisbane to Melbourne road trip