In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: the best places to visit, opening hours, prices, and travel tips. So, whether you’re into history, a wine lover, or enjoy small-town charm, this route has something for everyone.
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Planning a road trip from Melbourne to Sydney? Why not take the scenic inland route and dive deep into Australia’s rich history? This 8-day itinerary will guide you through a series of charming towns, each with its unique story—from the gold rush days to Australia’s colonial past and fascinating Indigenous heritage.
You’ll visit towns like Bendigo, Glenrowan, and Gundagai and explore critical landmarks like the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox in Gundagai, the historic sites of the Ned Kelly gang in Glenrowan, and the cultural treasures of Canberra.
This trip is not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about experiencing the heart of rural Australia. You’ll discover museums, heritage sites, wineries, and picturesque landscapes along the way. You’ll see how history is still alive and well in these small towns, where the past meets the present in an educational and entertaining way.
Klook.comMelbourne To Sydney 8-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Melbourne to Bendigo
The distance from Melbourne to Bendigo is approximately 150 kilometres (about 93 miles), and the drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s a straightforward trip along the Calder Freeway, making it a convenient start to your adventure.
Bendigo’s vibrant arts scene and impressive Victorian architecture make it a must-visit. The Bendigo Art Gallery is home to classic and contemporary works, while the Central Deborah Gold Mine lets you experience life during the gold rush. Don’t miss the iconic Bendigo Joss House Temple, a beautiful Chinese heritage site.
- Must do Activity
- Central Deborah Gold Mine:
- Location:76 Violet St, Bendigo VIC 3550, Australia
- Hours: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Price: various price tours
There is plenty to do in Bendigo, from trying out one of the many excellent restaurants this City of Gastronomy offers to riding the talking tram. There are also some great places to stay in Bendigo that suit every type of travel budget. If you want to stay longer, there is plenty to do and see.
Day 2: Bendigo to Glenrowan
After Bendigo, head to Glenrowan, famous for its connection to the notorious Ned Kelly. Visit the Glenrowan Historical Precinct, where you’ll find the site of the final siege between Kelly and the police. The Ned Kelly Centre provides a deep dive into the life and legend of Australia’s infamous outlaw. You can also see a giant Ned Kelly statue and a recreated “Kelly Gang” scene at the Kelly Museum.
- Must Do Activity
- Kelly Siege Site
- Location: 3-5 Gladstone Street, Glenrowan
- Hours: always open
- Price: free
Glenrowan is a quaint little town part of Glen Kelly’s history; if you fancy staying longer, there is plenty to do in this area.
Day 3: Glenrowan to Albury
Next stop: Albury, a gateway to the Riverina region. The city sits on the Murray River, offering natural beauty and a rich history. Visit the Albury Library Museum for local history exhibits or walk along the river at Noreuil Park. Albury’s Botanic Gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic, and you can take a heritage walk around the city to discover its charming old buildings.
- Must Do Activity
- Albury Library Museum
- Location: 540 Kiewa St, Albury NSW 2640, Australia
- Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Price: Free entry
If you want to extend your trip, Albury has a plethora of things to do; this 5-day Albury itinerary showcases so much of this fantastic border city. For those unaware, this is the Victoria and New South Wales border. This is a great place to learn more about the indigenous culture of the area and the migrant history.
Day 4: Albury to Rutherglen
Rutherglen is Australia’s wine country, so it’s the perfect place to unwind. This small town is famous for its fortified wines, and several wineries offer tastings and tours. Visit the Rutherglen Wine Experience and try some local wines, or visit the historic Victoria Hotel for a bite. The region also has a fascinating gold mining history, with the Rutherglen Historic Walk highlighting some critical buildings from the 19th century.
- Must do activity
- Rutherglen Visitors Centre
- Location: 57 Main St, Rutherglen VIC 3685
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 430 pm; Sunday, 10 am to 430pm
The area of Rutherglen is infamous for its wineries that date back to the mid to late 1800s. You could easily spend a few days just exploring the wineries, but there is much more to do in the area if wine isn’t your thing!
Day 5: Rutherglen to Corowa
Just a short drive from Rutherglen, Corowa is a laid-back town with a rich border history. Visit the Corowa Whisky and Chocolate factory to taste local produce, or head to the Corowa Federation Pavilion to learn about the town’s role in Australia’s federation process. For something unique, check out the heritage-listed Wahgunyah Railway Station, beautifully preserved since its construction in the 1880s.
- Must Do activity
- Federation Museum
- Location: 56 Queen St, Corowa NSW 2646, Australia
- Hours: Thurs 1–4 pm, Saturday 1–4 pm, Monday 2–4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am–4 pm
- Price: Donation
This is a great location to base yourself if you spend a few extra days. Corowa is also the Birthplace of the Federation, so there is plenty of history in and around this area.
Day 6: Corowa to Gundagai
Gundagai is known for its picturesque location along the Murrumbidgee River and its role in Australian folklore. The Dog on the Tuckerbox statue and the Gundagai Historic Railway Station are a must-see. For a bit of adventure, hike up to the top of Mount Parnassus for great views over the town and river. The Gundagai Museum also offers fascinating insights into the town’s history.
- Must Do Activity
- Gundagai Historic Railway Station
- Location: Rusconi Pl, Gundagai NSW 2722, Australia
- Hours: 9 am – 4 pm
- Price: Donation
Enjoy a day exploring the heritage trail, a walk through the main street, a visit to the courthouse, an exploration of the gaol and a visit to the old mill and heritage bridges.
Day 7: Gundagai to Canberra
After a good night’s sleep at one of Gundagai’s many accommodation choices, you will head out on the final leg of your heritage road trip. Today, you will reach Canberra, the nation’s capital. Visit the Australian War Memorial, a moving tribute to those who served in the military, or explore the National Museum of Australia for exhibits that showcase the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Take a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin, and finish the day by admiring the stunning architecture of Parliament House.
- Must Do Activity
- Australian War Memorial
- Location: Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT, Canberra
- Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Price: You must book a free two-hour limit ticket and a separate ticket to attend the daily Last Post Ceremony from 4 pm.
On your drive from Gundagai, you should stop at Jugiong, where you will find the most beautiful hotel. The Sir George Hotel has been renovated to perfection, and I can vote single-handedly for the best burger I have had in a while.
Day 8: Canberra to Sydney
The final leg of your journey takes you from Canberra to Sydney, approximately 286 kilometres (about 178 miles) away. The drive typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, making it a pleasant trip as you transition from the nation’s capital to the bustling metropolis of Australia.
Sydney is renowned for its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. You can explore the Sydney Opera House, stroll across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or relax at Bondi Beach. Don’t miss the chance to wander through The Rocks, a historic area filled with cobbled streets, markets, and great dining options.
Sydney’s diverse attractions make it an exciting place to wrap up your road trip. Whether you extend your stay to explore further or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this iconic city.
Final Thoughts
This 8-day heritage route from Melbourne to Sydney offers a mix of gold rush history, Indigenous heritage, and Australian folklore, along with opportunities to explore local culture and scenic beauty. Whether you’re into history, wine, or just a scenic drive, this itinerary provides a unique glimpse into the heart of inland Australia.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
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