Even though the editors at Time Out Melbourne are relatively well-travelled, there are still plenty of places within Victoria that they're yet to visit. There's so much variety within our state, from cute seaside towns to beautiful national parks, and they're determined to eventually tick off all the best spots. In 2025, our team is keen to check out quaint country towns, mountain ranges, coastal spots and snowy slopes. Read the list of Victorian destinations on our travel bucket lists below, and feel free to use our ideas as inspo for your next weekend getaway.
Port Fairy
I spent every Labour Day long weekend until I was 18 in Port Fairy for the Folk Festival, and still have the fondest memories of this gorgeous seaside village (which is about a 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne) and its historic pubs, rows of Norfolk Island pine trees and lone lighthouse. What I’m saying is that I’m well overdue for a return visit, and I think 2025 might be the year to make it happen. I’m keen to stay at Drift House (a gorgeous, design-led boutique hotel), eat fish and chips on the beach and even visit nearby Budj Bim National Park. So, I think it's time I head back to the folkie!
Leah Glynn, Melbourne editor
Bright
My mum and I have been saying we’ll visit Bright in Victoria’s High Country for years now, so I reckon 2025 is the time. The charming town turns all shades of red, orange and yellow each autumn, so I’ll be visiting during the Bright Autumn Festival in late April or early May.
Ashleigh Hastings, arts and culture editor
The Grampians
It's been devastating to hear about the bushfires that have ravaged this beautiful region this summer. I visited the Grampians often as a kid, so I can vouch for how special it is. I have many fond memories of the ice cream shop in Halls Gap, visiting Brambuk cultural centre and splashing around in the pools of Venus Baths. Once the area has time to recover and is ready for visitors, I’d love to visit again. The national park is incredibly beautiful and has great hikes, waterfalls and swimming spots. The Pinnacle hike has the most incredible view at the peak, which is the best reward after a challenging climb up the many, many stairs to the top.
Liv Condous, lifestyle writer
Mt Buller
I overheard two rich women from Brighton talking about the importance of putting snow clothes into a drying room when on holiday in the Swiss Alps, and I have to say it inspired me to go skiing. I definitely can’t afford Switzerland, but I could probably make a weekend trip to Mt Buller work next winter. Maybe I’ll meet a handsome man at the chalet (do we even have those in Australia?).
Saskia Morrison-Thiagu, branded content writer
I was extremely keen to hit the slopes this year, but unfortunately it didn’t pan out. I’ve heard Mt Buller gets some pretty good pow-pow snow and I’m definitely keen to try to see it myself this year.
Nigel Kippers, videographer
Woodend
I’d love to explore the small and charming town of Woodend. I see myself rugging up in the wintertime for a peaceful weekend away, checking out all the cute bakeries and pubs, bookstores and trails through the Wombat State Forest. I’d have a sunset picnic and take in the dramatic views of Hanging Rock at dusk and then stay in a cosy cottage. Dreamy!
Lauren Dinse, food and drink writer
For more recommendations on places to visit across Victoria, check out our extensive list of travel guides here.
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