The best midweek getaways and short breaks in Victoria

Drone shot of Inverloch coastal line

RACV

Posted January 19, 2024


Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with these midweek escapes and short breaks around Victoria, all under two hours’ drive from Melbourne. 

Sometimes, the urge to head off on a short break falls outside of the weekend schedule. Perhaps you’re looking to visit a quirky regional town, you’re on a culinary journey through Victoria, or you're looking to drive the state’s silo trail.

If you have the time for a short stay, why not consider a midweek escape in Victoria?

Accommodation and attractions can be cheaper, there are less crowds, and you can take your time on the leisurely drive.

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Best short breaks from Melbourne around Victoria

Inverloch: Seaside serenity

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 140km (1.5 to 2 hours' drive).

Inverloch, in the state’s Gippsland region, provides a coastal escape with stunning natural landscapes, cliff-top walks, and nearby attractions. 

Why it's a great midweek break: Inverloch is the epitome of seaside tranquillity, and a cheaper midweek escape ensures a more serene experience, avoiding weekend crowds.

Things to see and do: Enjoy the pristine beaches, explore the Bunurong Coastal Drive, or even head on a dinosaur fossil tour

From Inverloch, head to nearby Phillip Island for a range of fun activities, including a whale watching cruise, koala conservation reserve, and penguin parade at the Phillip Island Nature Parks.

Wake up to ocean views at the RACV Inverloch Resort.

Healesville: Wine and wildlife

Distance from Melbourne: Around 65km (1 hour drive).

Healesville, in the middle of the picturesque Yarra Valley, is an area full of activities for families, couples, friends and individuals.

Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the wider winery region, take your pick of activities, from a relaxing round of golf or reinvigorating spa treatment, to a full day winery tour or browse of the local boutiques. 

Why it's a great midweek break: A midweek visit to the Yarra region allows for a more intimate experience with the renowned wineries, attractions, and wildlife sanctuaries that Healesville has to offer, usually at cheaper rates.

Things to see and do: Have a read through our comprehensive guides on the best things to do in Healesville and in the surrounding Yarra Valley.

Go wine tasting, see some natural wildlife, and end your day with a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape.

Spend the night at the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort.

 

Take a walk down to Eagle's Nest in Inverloch. Image: Supplied
The penguins of Phillip Island are just a short drive from the RACV Inverloch Resort. Image: Supplied
Indulge in some relaxation at the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort. Image: Supplied
Explore the wineries of the Yarra Valley on your midweek escape to Healesville. Image: Visit Victoria

Mornington Peninsula: Coastal elegance

Distance from Melbourne: Around 100km (1.5 to 2 hours' drive)

A trip down the coast can include a little or lot depending on your getaway style.

Wander along the Cape Schanck Boardwalk, cruise on the art trail, experience the food and wine of the Peninsula, and rejuvenate at the RACV Cape Schanck Resort.

Why it's a great midweek break: Midweek provides a quieter escape to a trip down the Mornington Peninsula without the school holiday crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate its rugged coastal beauty.

Things to see and do: For those looking to experience all the Mornington Peninsula has to offer, find out about the best things to see, eat and do in the region, from a swim in the area's magnificent beaches to a dip in the hot springs, or cuddling a koala at the Moonlit Sanctuary to a soar across the skies on the famed Arthur’s Seat Eagle gondola.  

Torquay: Surf and sun

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 100km (1.5 hours' drive)

It’s easy to see why this beachside getaway region is a favourite stop on the Great Ocean Road. A hotspot of the surfer and the general holidaymaker, Torquay is the perfect place to stop for sun, surf, shops and seaside cuisine. 

Why it's a great midweek break: Beat the weekend rush and have Torquay's famous beaches and surf spots to yourself during your Victorian escape at the RACV Torquay Resort.

Things to see and do: From the famous swell of the iconic Bells Beach to the surf shops, cafes, and coastal walks, there are plenty of attractions in Torquay and its surrounds. 

Use our extensive Torquay guide on the best things to eat, drink, see and visit in Torquay along your scenic Great Ocean Road drive, including plenty of free things to do in Geelong just a short drive away. 

 

Explore the fabulous beaches of the Mornington Peninsula. Image: Portsea, Tourism Australia
Have a day of relaxation at the Hammam at RACV Cape Schanck Resort. Image: Supplied
Chill out on a weekday on the Torquay foreshore. Image: Supplied
A drive along the Great Ocean Road is half the fun. Image: Supplied

Goldfields: Where heritage meets adventure

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 125km (1.5 hours' drive)

Central Victoria is full of towns that thrived during the gold rush. Towns like Creswick, Clunes, and Castlemaine are on the scenic route between Bendigo and Ballarat, showcasing gold history through superb museums, galleries and attractions, as well as a variety of free things to see and do.

Why it’s a great midweek break: Avoid the crowds at popular attractions like Sovereign Hill or the natural springs of Daylesford, while enjoying midweek rates at the central RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick. 

Things to see and do: From historical tours, monuments, museums and experiences to gourmet tastings, wildlife parks, spectacular bike trails and fun family activities, there’s not a moment to be bored in Victoria’s Goldfields region. 

Melbourne City: Urban escape

Melbourne is a city famed for its food and coffee, culture, and cosmopolitan nature. Whether you come in the summer to hit up the range of markets and outdoor festivals, to try the variety of rooftop bars in the CBD, you want to shop the boutiques or simply want to hop on a tram and explore, explore the capital with a cheap midweek getaway in Melbourne. 

Why it's a great midweek break: Even for locals, a midweek city escape can offer a refreshing change of pace, allowing you to explore Melbourne's hidden gems without the weekend crowds. 

Things to see and do: Head to the city’s top attractions like MONOPOLY DREAMS Melbourne or the Melbourne Skydeck before discovering the city’s laneways and street art, and indulging in the city's diverse culinary scene

Take a day to wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, head on a historical tour or discover the best free things to do in Melbourne.

Wrap it up with a live show at one of the many theatres or performance venues around the city. 

 

Explore the spa city of Daylesford on a trip to the Goldfields. Image: Supplied
Indulge in the culinary delights of the Goldfields region. Image: Le Peche Gourmand
There's always something happening in the city of Melbourne. Image: Supplied
Head on a street art tour down Melbourne's laneways and city streets. Image: Supplied

How to plan the perfect midweek getaway and short stay

When it comes to planning your midweek getaway, there are a few key factors to consider:

Best time to visit

Victoria offers a range of beautiful destinations throughout the year, but if you're looking for a cheap midweek getaway, it's important to consider the best time to visit. 

If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches or Torquay or Mornington then summer is your best bet, while winter may provide some cheaper options and smaller crowds.

Keep in mind any specific events or festivals happening in your desired destination, as well as any roadworks, as they may impact availability, driving times and prices.

Midweek discounts

To truly maximise your midweek getaway, consider planning your itinerary in advance. Take advantage of any cheap discounts or special offers available for midweek travellers, such as discounted accommodation rates or exclusive experiences. 

Car safety 

Avoid car maintenance issues that can slow you down. Before setting off on your midweek getaway, pack an emergency car safety kit, and check that your emergency roadside assistance coverage is up to date.

 


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