Top Victoria Natural Attractions in 2026

Save yourself time and energy when visiting the enormous Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne by touring on The Explorer bus. If you’re on a quick visit en route to Phillip Island then this bus is an ideal way to navigate the 37 acre (15 hectare) Australian Garden. It departs from the Visitor Centre and includes informative live commentary by the driver.

Get up close to the wildlife of Phillip Island and discover Australia’s largest colony of Australian fur seals on this catamaran cruise. Watch seals lounging on the rocks and swimming in the bays; spot seabirds swooping overhead and look out for dolphins, whales, and penguins as you float around the island. Finally, tuck into afternoon tea on board as you listen to the live commentary and learn more about the island’s varied wildlife.

Discover the natural delights of Phillip Island with an eco-tour from Melbourne. See the iconic Brighton Beach bathing boxes, visit the beach and take some time to admire these historic landmarks. Head to the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park for an up-close encounter with kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other native Australian wildlife. Finish the day at a local beach where you can watch hundreds of some of the world's tiniest penguins waddle out of the ocean and across the sand to their burrows.

No trip to Melbourne is complete without a visit to the Shrine of Remembrance, a war memorial that honors Australian service and sacrifice in all wars. Join a guided tour to explore the monument, built after the First World War, and explore its rich history. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the design of the building and the lives of those it commemorates as you discover commemorative spaces and special exhibitions.

Explore a little piece of Mexico on the Murray at Cactus Country, Australia's largest cactus garden in Strathmerton, Victoria. Wander through 13 acres of cacti and succulents at your own pace, from small plants to the towering Valley of the Giants. Follow sandy garden trails, find a spot for a photo and take in the views from the lookout domes. Kids can explore with the Spotto scavenger hunt, and dogs on leads are welcome. Make time for tacos, nachos and a drink at the Taqueria & Bar, or try our cactus cake and cactus ice cream. Browse the onsite nursery for a cactus to take home. Food, drinks and plant purchases are additional to garden admission. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. Bring walking shoes, a hat, water and your camera.

Unlock the best of Melbourne in 2 or 3 days and save up to 75% on access to unmissable experiences. From stunning skyline views at the Skydeck to thrilling wildlife encounters in Phillip Island Nature Parks, the Melbourne Unlimited Pass offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture. Explore historical landmarks, enjoy family-friendly activities, and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that bring the city's vibrant spirit to life. With a free digital destination guide, map, and multimedia self-guided walking tour included, navigating Melbourne's best attractions has never been easier.

Discover the rugged mountains and wildflower valleys of the Grampians National Park on this full-day tour from Melbourne—no need to tackle local roads yourself. Once there, learn about Aboriginal culture, have lunch in Halls Gap (own expense), then climb to the Boroka Lookout for fantastic views of the Mt. William and Serra Ranges. Hike to see the dramatic Balconies, view the idyllic Mackenzie Falls, and spot wild kangaroos roaming through the valleys.

Let a professional be your designated driver on this great-value guided wine tasting tour of the beautiful Yarra Valley. Sample wines at four carefully selected wineries; savor a 2-course lunch with a glass of wine; and taste artisan chocolates at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. Enjoy plenty of photo stops along the way to capture the memories of your day out.