Just an hour from Melbourne, it's no surprise that the city's caffeine culture has made its way to Geelong. There are countless reliable cafe options, with Coffee Cartel a standout.
Batteries charged, it's time to have some fun on the Geelong waterfront and the outdoor playground that is Eastern Beach. If it's too chilly for the seaside pool, you can watch the boats bobbing on the bay and take a turn on the historic carousel. Watch Geelong's famous bollards come to life with the augmented reality app downloaded to your smartphone..
Take a break for lunch at Caledonian Shores for an Asian-themed menu with local seafood before heading towards the striking domed roof of the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, in the heart of Geelong's cultural precinct and while away some time in this library with a difference. Wander through Geelong Gallery, one of Australia's leading and oldest regional art galleries, and see what's on at Geelong Arts Centre. Grab tickets for an evening show later.
Spend the afternoon vintage shopping at the Mill Markets in central Geelong or at the Geelong Vintage Market in North Geelong or sample craft beer tastings at Little Creatures Brewery. Be sure to check out White Rabbit Brewery while you're there.
Take your pick of two dumpling bars on opposite sides of Little Malop Street - Bahjong with its playful dumpling fillings and Drunken Dumpling for an intimate dining experience. Or, transport yourself to France at Good Food Guide 2023 hatted restaurant La Cachette Bistrot, championing in-season produce.
It's time to call it a day. Collapse into bed at Anchor Geelong or Novotel Geelong on the waterfront, and get ready for a jam-packed second day.
