Overview
Experience stunning vistas, iconic wildlife and myriad attractions on a self-drive tour through the diverse landscapes of Melbourne and beyond. From beaches, rainforests and mountains to deserts, gorges and rolling green hills, Melbourne and Victoria have it all.
Mountains to the sea
Australia might be a wide brown land, but Melbourne occupies a compact little pocket that’s just right for road tripping, with fabulously photogenic highlights around every bend. With easy driving on the left-hand side, in just a few short hours you can journey from rugged mountains in the High Country, to the white sandy beaches along the Great Ocean Road.
Choose your own adventure
Whether you're away from home for two days or two weeks, and you're into food, wine, rock-climbing or wildlife, there's plenty on offer. Choose from two-day itineraries to week-long jaunts to savour the beauty of Victoria at your own pace.
Road rules
Familiarise yourself with some basic road rules before you head out on your self-driven adventure:
- In Australia the speed is in kilometres (km) per hour, not miles per hour.
- The speed limit in built up or residential areas is 50km/h but can be less. Look for signage.
- On the open road, the speed limit rises to 100km, and 110km on parts of major highways.
- Speeding is illegal and heavy fines apply if you are caught travelling above the limit by police or speed cameras.
- There is a blood alcohol limit of 0.05. Random breath tests operate around the state in all metropolitan and country areas.
- Seat belts are compulsory in front and back seats. Children must be harnessed in a safety restraint appropriate to their age.
- Drivers are required to carry a licence at all times. International driving licences are acceptable for up to three months; however, you will require a Victorian licence after this period.
For more information on licences and Victorian road rules, visit the Vicroads website.
Car hire
Local and international car rental firms operate in Melbourne and larger regional centres. They offer a variety of vehicle types and deals. Major rental companies in Melbourne include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and SIXT.
The minimum age to rent a car in Victoria is generally 25 years old. Some outlets will rent cars to those under 25, although surcharges and restrictions may apply.
Campervans
Perfect for everything from an extended family holiday to a short break with friends, campervans and motorhomes allow you to combine accommodation with your transport. Travel at your own pace through Victoria, stopping where you like, when you like. Most hire companies offer one-way vehicle hire.
