Melbourne to Sydney road trips: what you should see in Australia

Travelling around Australia is no small feat. The land mass of Australia is almost twice that of the entire space of Europe and yet Australia remains one country. So if you’re heading to Oz, you’ll probably want to do a little planning unless you have plenty of time for an old fashioned wander.

You might be looking to hire a minibus in Sydney in order drive down to Melbourne. Plenty of travellers enjoy this road trip as the eastern Australian coastline is scenic and offers ample camping and caravan spots. Popular ocean stops along this route include Seven Mile Beach and Jervis Bay. From here you might opt to continue heading south along the coast to Hukisson Beach which is a famous dive location and then Merimbula, which could be your last stop before you cross the border into Victoria.

Alternatively, from Jervis Bay head inland to the nation’s capital, Canberra. From here there’s a litany of iconic Australian sites to see before you head into Victoria such as the Dog on the Tucker Box and giant submarine (and tasty nearby bakery) in Holbrook. There is a larger border city of Albury/Wodonga where you can stock up on supplies or other services you haven’t been able to find along the road.

In terms of eating out while you’re on the road, you’ll find a variety of fast food or roadhouses connected to petrol stations along the main highways. If these suit your budget and itinerary, drop in and you’ll find standard meals as well as snacks and nibbles to take away. If you’re after something a little tastier, keep your eye out for local pubs which may take you off the main road, but often well worth it for a hearty meal and a chance to mix with the locals and have a beer or two. Australia also has a great foodie culture that extends beyond the urban centres. Think fine dining options made with local, fresh ingredients. About an hour’s inland from Seven Mile Beach you’ll find well established restaurants such as Biota Dining and Eschalot. Closer the coast you’ll find Rick Stein’s Bannisters for tasty seafood, or St Isidore. Don’t forget that many of these places are best booked ahead of time.

Once in Victoria, the green landscape continues with the Snowy River National Park or if heading south from Canberra, Alpine National Park. Whether summer or winter, this area is great for either skiing or walking, with many people basing themselves in the town of Bright. If sticking to the coast, make a stop in Lakes Entrance for the Gippsland lakes, Ninety Mile beach, Buchan Caves and great fishing spots. Many people then head on to Wilson’s Promontory for an extended camping trip.

Once you make your way to Melbourne, there are countless things to do. From arts and sporting events, festivals and the best theme parks, Melbourne has something for everyone, but you might need sunnies and a jacket in the one day, so come prepared!