Discover Melbourne's highlights and Victoria's natural wonders from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

Melbourne Tullamarine Airport positions you perfectly to explore Victoria's diverse attractions, from the cultural heart of Melbourne city to the breathtaking Great Ocean Road. The city's famous laneways, world-class dining scene, and sporting venues await your discovery, while natural wonders like the Dandenong Ranges and Phillip Island offer unforgettable experiences. An SUV enhances your exploration with comfortable seating for passengers and generous cargo space for luggage, shopping, or beach gear. You'll find everything from the Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square to charming coastal towns and mountain retreats easily accessible by car.

Federation Square and Melbourne's cultural precinct

Federation Square stands as Melbourne's premier cultural hub, housing major galleries, museums, and performance spaces in its distinctive modern architecture. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant precinct offers easy access to the Yarra River, Flinders Street Station, and the famous laneways filled with street art and boutique cafes. Parking options are available in nearby facilities, though you'll want to arrive early during peak times. The elevated seating position in your hired SUV provides excellent city views as you navigate Melbourne's grid-pattern streets, while the spacious interior accommodates any purchases from the precinct's unique shops and galleries.

Great Ocean Road scenic coastal drive

The Great Ocean Road represents one of Australia's most spectacular coastal drives, stretching along Victoria's dramatic southern coastline. This iconic route takes you past the famous Twelve Apostles limestone formations, charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, and pristine beaches perfect for surfing or relaxation. Your rental SUV provides the freedom to stop at scenic lookouts, explore hidden coves, and discover local wineries along the way. The comfortable ride quality ensures you'll arrive refreshed at each destination, ready to explore coastal walking trails and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Yarra Valley wine region and gourmet experiences

The Yarra Valley beckons wine enthusiasts and food lovers with its rolling hills, world-renowned vineyards, and award-winning restaurants. This picturesque region, easily accessible from Melbourne, offers cellar door tastings, gourmet dining experiences, and stunning valley views. Your hired SUV handles the winding country roads with confidence while providing ample space for wine purchases and picnic supplies. Many wineries feature outdoor seating areas where you can savour local produce while overlooking the vineyards. The region also boasts artisan producers, farmers' markets, and charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations nestled among the vines. Hot air balloon rides offer spectacular aerial views of this beautiful landscape.

Phillip Island and penguin parade wildlife experience

Phillip Island delivers one of Australia's most beloved wildlife experiences, famous for its nightly penguin parade where hundreds of little penguins return to shore at sunset. The island also features excellent surfing beaches, the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, and diverse wildlife including koalas, seals, and native birds. Your rental SUV makes the scenic coastal drive enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to stop at lookouts and beaches along the way. The island's compact size makes it perfect for day trips, with good parking available at major attractions and visitor centres.

Dandenong Ranges and Puffing Billy steam railway

The Dandenong Ranges offer a refreshing mountain escape featuring tall eucalyptus forests, charming villages, and the historic Puffing Billy steam railway. This scenic region provides cool relief during summer months, with numerous walking trails, gardens, and lookouts offering panoramic views across Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay. The winding mountain roads are perfect for a leisurely drive in your hired SUV, with stops at quaint townships like Olinda and Sassafras for antique shopping and traditional Devonshire tea. Native wildlife including lyrebirds and colourful parrots can often be spotted in the forest areas, while the famous William Ricketts Sanctuary showcases unique sculptures celebrating Aboriginal culture and connection to nature.