13 Best Regional Towns to Visit in Victoria

It’s easy to get caught up in Melbourne’s busy city life and overlook some of the hidden gems that can be found throughout the rest of Victoria.

With so much to offer, including buzzing arts scenes, delicious local produce, breath-taking natural landscapes, and outdoor pursuits, regional Victoria is definitely worth venturing beyond Melbourne’s CBD.

Here’s just a taster.

• For a coastal getaway with whale watching: Warrnambool
• For exploring Victoria’s gold rush past: Bendigo
• For arts, culture, and good food: Castlemaine
• For sunny outdoor activities: Mildura
• For a mix of history and outdoor fun: Horsham

Warrnambool

The coastal city of Warrnambool, located right on the edge of the Southern Ocean, is a hive of culture and history. Each year between June and September, the waters off Logans Beach come to life as whales make their way through.

Warrnambool is known for its rich maritime history and the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village is the perfect way to learn more about the city’s seafaring heritage and the stories of the Shipwreck Coast in the 1800s. But don’t leave without delving into Warrnambool’s thriving arts scene either – explore the colourful laneways and street art.

• Distance: 256km west of Melbourne
• Known For: Southern right whales, Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, and beautiful beaches
• Best Season: Winter for whale watching (June to September)
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BE6wJ3iWjHgR1Fro7

Bendigo

There is so much to love about Bendigo. With a rich history dating back to the gold rush days, Bendigo is steeped with historic charm from its impressive Victorian-era architecture. Bendigo’s contemporary culture is equally enticing, with a buzzing arts and dining scene. The city is home to Bendigo Art Gallery, one of Australia’s oldest and largest regional art galleries, but the gallery building is closed for redevelopment until 2028. Check its offsite programme while it is closed.

At the Central Deborah Gold Mine you can travel down into the earth on an underground tour. Bendigo is a must on your Victorian bucket list.

• Distance: Approximately 150km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Gold rush history, Victorian architecture, and the Bendigo Art Gallery (gallery building closed for redevelopment until 2028)
• Best Season: Autumn, when the city’s gardens and parks are at their most vibrant
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QfFiSnoduWgtfVby6

Castlemaine

Right in the heart of Victoria’s gold country, Castlemaine is a quaint little town with big personality. With plenty of heritage-listed buildings, Castlemaine’s rich history dates back to the gold rush era – visit the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park to learn more.

But today, Castlemaine’s buzzing cafe culture and contemporary arts scene steals the limelight, featuring The Mill, a hub for local crafters, artists, makers, designers, bakers and more housed in a former woollen mill, and the Castlemaine Art Museum.

• Distance: 120km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Gold rush heritage, The Mill Castlemaine, and vibrant arts scene
• Best Season: Spring, when the town’s gardens and natural surroundings come to life
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uJKVjRontN1FBeCK7

Mildura

The gateway to the outback, Mildura is a vibrant and friendly city located along the banks of the Murray River. With an enviable number of sunny days each year, a buzzing arts scene, delicious produce from its surrounding region and plenty of cellar doors, there’s something for everyone in this laid-back regional gem.

Cruise down the Murray, learn more about Mildura’s heritage and culture at one of its galleries or art studios, devour delicious produce at one of its many eateries and bars or make your way to the Mildura Country Music Festival.

• Distance: Approximately 550km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Murray River, gourmet food and wine, and vibrant arts scene
• Best Season: Autumn, for the wine harvest and mild weather
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4ws1fYQCbwZK4jjq8

Echuca

Once Australia’s largest inland port, Echuca is a fascinating glimpse into life along the Murray. Read more: Echuca, located along the Murray River.

Visit the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre and learn more about Echuca’s former glory days and the impact the river had on trade, or hop aboard one of Echuca’s paddle steamers, such as the PS Alexander Arbuthnot, which still operates on the river, for a Murray River cruise.

After your cruise, pop into Three Black Sheep Cafe in neighbouring Moama – it’s worth the short drive.

• Distance: 225km north of Melbourne
• Known For: Historic paddlesteamers, Port of Echuca, and the Murray River
• Best Season: Spring and autumn, for mild weather and river activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rnma7ssL79yKvzc78

Shepparton

Located in Victoria’s Goulburn Valley, an area famous for its dairy and orchards, Shepparton is an underrated cultural hotspot. Visit one of the area’s markets to sample local produce and support small businesses, or delve into Shepparton’s thriving contemporary arts scene at the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), which is home to a renowned ceramics collection.

Get outside and make the most of Victoria Park Lake which is perfect for a stroll or water-based activities.

• Distance: 181km north of Melbourne
• Known For: Agriculture, Shepparton Art Museum, and fresh produce
• Best Season: Spring and summer, for the best produce and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FpZGy9LPiGNGDpCT6

Ararat

Near the majestic Grampians is the regional Victorian town of Ararat. This gold rush town offers a range of attractions and experiences including the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre where you’ll discover the stories of Chinese gold miners of the 1800s, and the J Ward Museum housed in a former asylum.

Get out and explore Grampians National Park for bushwalks and picnic areas, or head to One Tree Hill Lookout near Ararat for expansive views.

• Distance: 198km west of Melbourne
• Known For: Gold rush history, Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, and proximity to the Grampians
• Best Season: Spring and autumn, for mild weather and scenic views
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axb5GxBTWz1Xg42x7

Swan Hill

With an exciting past steeped in river trading and paddlesteamers, Swan Hill is a regional town you won’t want to miss. Make sure to visit the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement for an insight into the town’s colourful past including a fully recreated 1800s town and a voyage on the heritage paddlesteamer PS Pyap.

With its position on the mighty Murray River there’s no shortage of things to see and do – hire a kayak or try your luck catching a giant Murray cod. Enjoy a stroll along the beautiful bushwalking and birdwatching tracks in Nyah-Vinifera Park admiring the picturesque views of the river and majestic old red gums. Don’t leave the area without visiting the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum, which provides an interesting glimpse into Lake Boga’s lesser-known history during WWII as a repair depot for flying boats.

• Distance: Approximately 340km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, Murray River, and Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gF2pVP9QMXHaLDKu9

Lakes Entrance

Where the beautiful Gippsland Lakes meet Bass Strait, you’ll find the coastal town of Lakes Entrance. Enjoy some time on Ninety Mile Beach whether it’s for a dip, a paddle, a surf or just lying back soaking up some rays.

Venture out on an eco-cruise for a chance to spot dolphins, seals, stingrays and lots more native creatures. Bike, walk, jog, bird-watch or picnic along the East Gippsland Rail Trail.

• Distance: Approximately 320km east of Melbourne
• Known For: Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland Lakes, and wildlife spotting
• Best Season: Summer for water activities and beach days
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hbz9ZJkiXPbrw3Xn6

Bairnsdale

Surrounded by natural beauty Bairnsdale is a gateway to the stunning Gippsland Lakes and surrounds. This charming regional Victorian town located on the banks of the Mitchell River is sure to keep you entertained – visit St Mary’s Catholic Church to view the stunning Romanesque building and incredibly detailed murals painted by Italian artist Francesco Floreani.

Sample some of Bairnsdale’s fine produce including a range of farm gate products, local wineries and breweries. For those keen to get out into the great outdoors take a wander through the rugged, spectacular Mitchell River National Park.

• Distance: Approximately 280km east of Melbourne
• Known For: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Mitchell River, and proximity to natural attractions
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qYwR4nCWMRwMLkH18

Wangaratta

A regional Victorian town nestled in Victoria’s beautiful High Country, Wangaratta is a gateway to many attractions and adventures. Get creative visiting the Wangaratta Art Gallery or catch a show at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.

Get active with bushwalking, picnics and wildlife spotting at the nearby Warby-Ovens National Park, Merriwa Park with its beautiful lagoon and fernery or one of Wangaratta’s many walking tracks.

• Distance: Approximately 235km northeast of Melbourne
• Known For: Wangaratta Art Gallery, Warby-Ovens National Park, and parks and gardens
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KK9RPvYNDqdHdpqz9

Horsham

Horsham is a thriving, friendly, multicultural hub located in Victoria’s beautiful Wimmera region. Take in local attractions including the Horsham Regional Art Gallery and Horsham Botanic Gardens.

Head out and explore Grampians National Park and discover its mountainous terrain, scenic views and diverse native animals or venture west and discover the sand dunes and an abundance of rare and unusual plants at Little Desert National Park. Check current park access before setting out.

• Distance: 300km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Horsham Regional Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, and proximity to the Grampians
• Best Season: Spring and autumn, for comfortable weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Juh23YZu8kngxwM5A

Stawell

Just 3 hours drive from Melbourne, Stawell is a gateway to some of the Grampians region’s top attractions. Originally a gold mining site, the small regional centre is now a services hub for the surrounding rural community. Stawell is famous for hosting the Stawell Gift, which dates back to 1878. Today, Australia’s premier footrace takes place at Central Park over Easter and is a major attraction. Visit the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame located in the park. Take a trip back in time at the Old Shire Hall and the Pleasant Creek Courthouse Museum, two fine examples of gold-rush architecture.

Get out into the Grampians National Park and admire the region’s natural beauty. Marvel at the rock art depicting Bunjil, the spirit figure, at Bunjil’s Shelter in Black Range Scenic Reserve. Walk through the ironbark forest of Deep Lead Nature Conservation Reserve, a superb area for bushwalking, birdwatching and a great spot to see native wildflowers during spring.

• Distance: Approximately 235km northwest of Melbourne
• Known For: Stawell Gift, gold rush history, and proximity to the Grampians
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hduqG6KTZDEojXLZ8

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Warrnambool for whale watching?

From June to September, head to Warrnambool for southern right whale watching as mothers and calves rest in the waters off Logans Beach.

How far is Bendigo from Melbourne and what is it known for?

About a two-hour drive northwest of Melbourne, discover Bendigo’s gold-rush heritage, fine art and buzzing night life. Bendigo is steeped in history with plenty of grand old buildings from the city’s prosperous Victorian era. Enjoy an array of cultural activities with a buzzing arts community, galleries, theatres, festivals and more.

What are the main attractions in Castlemaine?

Castlemaine has plenty of attractions including The Mill Castlemaine, Castlemaine Art Museum and Castlemaine Botanical Gardens. Discover arts, gold-rush history and great food in Castlemaine.

What outdoor activities can I do in Mildura?

Mildura offers a range of great outdoor experiences from paddle steamer cruises on the Murray River and a visit to Perry Sandhills to exploring ancient landscapes on a day trip to Mungo National Park. Indulge in the region’s gourmet food and wine.

How do I get to Stawell and what is it famous for?

Stawell is located about 235km northwest of Melbourne, around a three-hour drive. It is famous for the Stawell Gift and is a gateway to some of the Grampians region’s top attractions.