Itineraries — Victoria

The State of Victoria and its capital Melbourne form the ideal cultural and natural counterpoint to Sydney on an Australian trip. Melbourne, the country's second city (5 million inhabitants), is regularly ranked among the world's most liveable cities and one of the global gastronomic capitals. Its temperate (sometimes capricious) climate, Victorian architecture, Italian café scene inherited from post-war immigration, globally-recognised street art and intense multiculturalism make it a unique destination in Australia.

For a short stay Melbourne (3-4 nights), essential itinerary: 1 day CBD (Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane street art laneways, Block Arcade Victorian arcades, Italian cafés, Federation Square), 1 day Southbank/St Kilda (NGV — National Gallery of Victoria, Royal Botanic Gardens, St Kilda beach and sunset penguins), 1 day Fitzroy/Collingwood (bobo neighbourhoods, brunch, independent boutiques, alternative street art). Add 1 night for Yarra Valley or a gourmet dinner at Attica or Vue de Monde.

The natural extension to the Great Ocean Road (2-3 days) is one of the world's most beautiful road trips. 243 km of panoramic road between Torquay and Allansford, hugging spectacular limestone cliffs (12 Apostles at sunset or sunrise), crossing eucalyptus forests (Cape Otway for wild koalas in the trees, free observation from the road) and seaside villages (Lorne, Apollo Bay). Several nights recommended: Apollo Bay then Port Campbell, to enjoy the 12 Apostles in golden evening light and dawn without day-trip crowds.

Add: Phillip Island (1 day) for the Penguin Parade (each evening, hundreds of penguins emerge from the sea), the Yarra Valley (1 day) for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay tastings (Chandon, Domaine Chandon — founded by Moët & Chandon, Yering Station, De Bortoli), and the Mornington Peninsula (1-2 days) for Peninsula Hot Springs and beaches.