The Top 5 3-Day Tours In Melbourne

Melbourne shines as a hub for 3-day tours because of its proximity to some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re after the rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road or the mountains and waterfalls of the Grampians, Melbourne’s central location makes it easy to explore these icons comfortably. What we love most about these tours is their balance of guided experiences and free time, allowing you to soak in the scenery without the hassle of navigation. For instance, the Melbourne to Adelaide 3-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour takes you past surf beaches, seaside towns, and wilderness areas with expert commentary, making it an accessible way to see a lot in a short time.

If you’re considering a shorter city escape, the Melbourne City Card offers free entry to top attractions like the Eureka Skydeck and Melbourne Star. For those wanting a more customized experience, private options such as the Private Three Day Great Ocean Road Tour provide flexibility and personalized attention on a more relaxed schedule.

1. Melbourne to Adelaide 3-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour

Starting with a bang, this tour offers a hassle-free way to enjoy iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Grampians National Park. Riding in a comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped bus, you’ll pass through seaside towns and lush rainforests, with live commentary to inform and entertain. The itinerary includes visits to surf beaches at Anglesea, Apollo Bay, and guided rainforest walks in the Great Otway National Park. Travelers consistently praise the seamless organization—“The trip was well organised and our guide Niall really added to the experience,” one reviewer notes.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown without the stress of driving. The highlight is the chance to see the Twelve Apostles up close while enjoying the convenience of guided transport. Costing around $641.93 per person, it offers excellent value considering the inclusions and ease.

Bottom line: If you prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience that covers the must-see natural wonders with expert commentary, this tour is a top choice.

2. Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road & Grampians 3 Day Original Tour

This tour includes two nights’ accommodation, two dinners, and two breakfasts, making it a great option for travelers who want to pack in a lot without worrying about planning meals. It begins with the classic Great Ocean Road, visiting Anglesea, stopping at the Memorial Arch, and exploring Apollo Bay. The guided walks through Great Otway National Park reveal ancient rainforests and wildlife sightings—look out for koalas and kangaroos along the way.

The tour then heads inland to explore the Grampians National Park, with hikes to see waterfalls, mountain vistas, and native wildlife. Tour guide J Dog is frequently praised for her enthusiasm and storytelling, making the experience more engaging. At $641.93, it is priced similarly to other premium options, offering a balanced mix of activities, accommodation, and meals.

Bottom line: If you seek a well-rounded trip with accommodations included and love wildlife encounters, this tour delivers good value and memorable scenery.

3. Oceans to Mountains Explorer: 3-Day Great Ocean Road Tour

Covering both the oceans and mountains of Victoria, this 3-day tour emphasizes diverse landscapes. It explores the heritage-listed Great Ocean Road, the rock formations of the Twelve Apostles, and the waterfalls of the Grampians. Unique to this experience is the focus on Indigenous culture and traditions, with guided insights into the local Aboriginal history.

The itinerary includes a walk in Great Otway National Park and a visit to Tower Hill, an extinct volcano teeming with wildlife. With 58 reviews rating it 4.8/5, travelers often mention the incredible scenery and educational content. The tour is suitable for those who want a deep dive into regional culture and nature, with a mix of hikes, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting.

Bottom line: For travelers who want an engaging combination of nature, culture, and scenic drives, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Victoria’s best.

4. 3 Day Combo: Great Ocean Road, Penguin Parade and FREE City Tour

This tour packs three highlights into just three days: the Great Ocean Road, the Phillip Island Penguin Parade, and a free city tour. It is ideal if you’re short on time but want a bit of everything—coastal scenery, wildlife, and Melbourne’s urban charms. The small-group format (up to 24 guests) and multilingual audio guides ensure a personal experience. Day 1 features an inner-city pickup, scenic stops at Torquay, the Memorial Arch, and Anglesea Beach, plus stops at Split Point Lighthouse.

While the tour is budget-friendly at $239.56, it doesn’t skimp on highlights, and the inclusion of a Penguin Parade makes it especially memorable. Guests love the flexibility and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Bottom line: If you’re after a varied, budget-conscious tour combining coastal drives and unique wildlife experiences, this is a smart pick.

5. Melbourne to Adelaide: 3-Day Great Ocean Road Grampians Tour

This overland adventure takes you from Melbourne to Adelaide, passing three national parks, including the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians. It emphasizes natural beauty, with visits to Loch Ard Gorge, Mackenzie Falls, and Halls Gap. The itinerary is packed with hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic viewpoints like Reed’s lookout.

The tour is praised for its value for money and detailed itinerary, which includes transport, accommodation, and some meals. Reviewers mention the opportunity to see kangaroos, emus, and kookaburras in the wild. The tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, multi-day experience with a focus on Australia’s wilderness.

Bottom line: For those wanting a full, active itinerary with good value, this tour offers an immersive experience into Victoria’s diverse ecosystems.

How to Choose the Right 3-Day Tour in Melbourne

When selecting your tour, consider your interests—whether it’s coastal scenery, wildlife, or cultural insights. If you prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience, the Melbourne to Adelaide 3-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour is a fantastic choice. For budget travelers, the 3 Day Combo offers great value with the bonus of seeing penguins. If you’re after more flexibility, consider the Private Three Day Great Ocean Road Tour, which allows customizing your experience.

Think about your fitness level—some tours include hikes while others focus more on scenic drives. Also, check the season; warmer months from spring to early autumn provide better wildlife encounters and comfortable weather. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s location makes it a prime starting point for exploring Victoria’s natural wonders. Whether you prefer the hassle-free guided trips like the Melbourne to Adelaide 3-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour or the flexible, privately guided options, there’s a tour to match your style and budget. For those wanting a diverse experience, the Oceans to Mountains Explorer offers a well-rounded look at rugged coastlines, waterfalls, and Indigenous culture.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of wildlife and scenic beauty, the 3 Day Combo provides excellent value. For a more personalized, relaxed adventure, private tours like the Private Three Day Great Ocean Road Tour are hard to beat.

No matter what you choose, early booking is your best bet to secure accommodation and avoid missing out on these incredible Australian landscapes. Happy travels—Melbourne is a fantastic hub for discovering Victoria’s natural treasures in just 3 days.