Why take a chauffeur on a day trip
A day trip is a long day with several stops. With a chauffeur there is no designated driver, no parking to find at each stop and no worrying about directions on country roads. You choose the places, and the car and driver stay with you. Hourly hire is built for this: a block of time (from 3 hours up to 12 hours online), with unlimited stops inside the booking and plans that can change on the day.
For a group, the Executive Van takes up to 7 passengers and the Mercedes Sprinter up to 12, so everyone travels together. Our general guide to day trips with a chauffeur covers how the booking works.
The Yarra Valley: cool-climate wine
The Yarra Valley is one of the closest wine regions to Melbourne and a popular choice for a day of tasting. It is known for cool-climate varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and for sparkling wine, and many cellar doors have a restaurant, a view over the vines or both.
It also suits visitors who want more than wine: wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, farm produce, chocolate and cheese, and the drive itself through rolling hills. Pick two or three cellar doors rather than six, so the day does not turn into a rush.
The Mornington Peninsula: wine, beaches and hot springs
The Mornington Peninsula has wineries, long beaches, walking tracks and the Peninsula Hot Springs, all within a short loop. Red Hill and its surrounding cellar doors are a favourite for a long lunch, and Arthurs Seat gives a wide view over Port Phillip Bay.
It is a good choice if your group has different interests, because there is something for everyone, from tasting rooms to sea air.
The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most famous drives, running along the south-west coast of Victoria past surf beaches, forests and rock formations. The Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park are the best-known sight, and towns such as Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay make good stops along the way.
It is a long trip, so decide what matters most. Many visitors choose a full day with a few key stops, or stay overnight to take it slowly. If you want one day only, tell us your must-see places and we will plan the order with you. Hourly hire can run up to 12 hours online, and a longer or multi-day plan can be arranged by special request.
Phillip Island and the penguins
Phillip Island is known for the Penguin Parade, where little penguins come ashore at dusk, and for wildlife, beaches and its motor racing circuit. Plan the day around the evening: many visitors spend the afternoon on the island and stay for the parade before the drive back to the city.
Check the Phillip Island Nature Parks website for the current arrangements and book your entry directly. Let us know your preferred pick-up and return time, and we will plan around it.
More ideas close to the city
- The Dandenong Ranges for tall forests, gardens and the Puffing Billy steam railway.
- The Macedon Ranges and the spa country around Daylesford and Hepburn Springs for a slower day.
- The Bellarine Peninsula, near Geelong, for wineries, seaside towns and a relaxed pace.
Planning your day
- Pick the region first, then two or three stops, not a long list.
- Check opening days and booking rules for cellar doors and attractions, because many ask you to reserve.
- Tell us your group size, any special occasion and how late you would like to be back.
- Agree one clear pick-up point and a flexible return time.
- Bring a light jacket: coastal and hill weather can change quickly.
When you are ready, get an instant quote for a transfer, or choose hourly hire for the whole day. For the area we cover around the city, see our Melbourne chauffeur service.
Related
Services mentioned in this guide
See also all our chauffeur services, the fleet and the six cities we cover.
