City Guide for: Geelong, Australia

Geelong, Australia Guide

Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, offers a vibrant blend of urban sophistication and coastal charm. Situated on Corio Bay, it boasts a stunning waterfront precinct, a rich industrial heritage, and a thriving arts and culture scene. From its colourful bollards lining the foreshore to its world-class restaurants and boutique shops, Geelong provides a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages. Beyond the city centre, Geelong serves as a gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road. Explore picturesque coastal towns, sample award-winning wines at local vineyards, or embark on an unforgettable road trip along one of the world's most scenic drives. With its accessible location and diverse attractions, Geelong is the perfect base for exploring the best of Victoria.

Food & Cuisine

Geelong's culinary scene is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and international flavours. The waterfront precinct is home to numerous restaurants offering stunning bay views and menus showcasing the region's best catches. For a more casual experience, explore the cafes and eateries along Pakington Street in Newtown, known for its diverse range of cuisines. The Geelong Central shopping centre also houses a variety of food court options. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Geelong Waterfront for fresh seafood or try some local produce at the Geelong Farmers' Market (held on the first Sunday of each month). For a fine dining experience, consider Igni, a hatted restaurant known for its innovative tasting menus and wood-fired cooking.

Nightlife

Geelong's nightlife is centred around the waterfront precinct and the city centre. The waterfront offers a range of bars and pubs with live music and stunning bay views. Little Malop Street is another popular area, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. For a more relaxed atmosphere, explore the pubs and bars in Pakington Street, Newtown. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, often featuring live music and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Geelong is during the spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds than the summer months, and beautiful scenery as the landscape transforms. Summer (December-February) can be hot, but it's ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. Winter (June-August) can be cool and wet, but it's still a good time to visit if you're interested in indoor activities and don't mind the cooler weather.

Transportation

Geelong offers a range of public transportation options. The city is well-serviced by buses, operated by CDC Geelong, providing access to most suburbs and surrounding areas. V/Line trains connect Geelong to Melbourne's Southern Cross Station, with frequent services throughout the day. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. While Geelong doesn't have trams or a subway/metro system, the bus network is comprehensive and efficient for navigating the city and its surrounds.

Airport

Avalon Airport (AVV) is the closest airport to Geelong, located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of the city centre. Jetstar operates domestic flights from Avalon Airport. SkyBus provides a direct bus service between Avalon Airport and Geelong's city centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but can be more expensive. Melbourne Airport (MEL) is another option, located approximately 75 kilometers east of Geelong. V/Line trains and SkyBus services connect Melbourne Airport to Geelong, although the journey is longer than from Avalon Airport.

Attractions

Geelong Botanic Gardens

Geelong Botanic Gardens The Geelong Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a diverse collection of plants, themed gardens, walking paths, and a children's garden. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature, attend events and workshops, or simply explore the beauty of the gardens.

National Wool Museum

National Wool Museum The National Wool Museum showcases the history of Australia's wool industry, with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and displays that highlight the significance of wool in the country's economy. Visitors can learn about the process of wool production, explore the heritage-listed buildings, and participate in workshops and events.

Eastern Beach

Eastern Beach Eastern Beach is a popular swimming and recreation spot in Geelong, featuring a beautiful promenade, swimming enclosure, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The iconic Art Deco sea baths add to the charm of this beach, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

Geelong Gallery

Geelong Gallery The Geelong Gallery is a renowned art museum in Geelong, showcasing a diverse collection of Australian and international artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can admire works by prominent artists, attend exhibitions and events, and explore the gallery's rich cultural heritage.

Cunningham Pier

Cunningham Pier Cunningham Pier is a historic landmark in Geelong, offering panoramic views of Corio Bay and the city skyline. The pier is home to restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a popular destination for dining, shopping, and leisurely walks along the waterfront.

Geelong Waterfront

Geelong Waterfront The Geelong Waterfront is a vibrant area along Corio Bay, offering stunning views, waterfront dining options, walking and cycling paths, and attractions like the Carousel, Bollards Trail, and Cunningham Pier. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, relax by the water, or explore the various shops and cafes in the area.

Day Trips

Torquay

Surf's up! Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road, is a must-visit for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts. Catch a wave at Bells Beach (home to the Rip Curl Pro), explore the Surf World Museum, or simply relax on the golden sands of Torquay Beach. With its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal scenery, Torquay offers a perfect escape from the city.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes driving

Activities
  • Surfing at Bells Beach
  • Visiting the Surf World Museum
  • Relaxing on Torquay Beach
  • Exploring the shops and cafes

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Embark on an African adventure without leaving Victoria at the Werribee Open Range Zoo. Take a safari bus tour through the open plains and encounter lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. With its immersive exhibits and close encounters with wildlife, the Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a unique and unforgettable day trip experience.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour driving

Activities
  • Taking a safari bus tour
  • Visiting the lion enclosure
  • Exploring the gorilla exhibit
  • Learning about conservation efforts

Bellarine Peninsula (Portarlington)

Escape to the tranquil beauty of the Bellarine Peninsula with a day trip to Portarlington. This charming coastal town is known for its fresh seafood, picturesque harbor, and stunning views across Port Phillip Bay. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch, stroll along the pier, or take a scenic walk along the coast.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes driving

Activities
  • Enjoying fresh seafood
  • Strolling along the Portarlington Pier
  • Visiting the Portarlington Mill
  • Wine tasting at local wineries

Macedon Ranges (Mount Macedon)

Escape to the cool, green hills of the Macedon Ranges. Visit the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross for breathtaking views, explore the beautiful gardens of Forest Glade, or enjoy a scenic drive through the charming villages.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes driving

Activities
  • Visiting the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross
  • Exploring Forest Glade Gardens
  • Hiking in the Macedon Regional Park
  • Visiting local wineries

Daylesford

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation in the spa town of Daylesford. Known for its natural mineral springs, charming cafes, and beautiful gardens, Daylesford offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Treat yourself to a spa treatment, explore the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, or browse the unique shops and galleries.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving

Activities
  • Visiting the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
  • Exploring the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens
  • Browsing the shops and galleries
  • Wine tasting at local wineries

You Yangs Regional Park

Get active and explore the rugged beauty of the You Yangs Regional Park. Hike to the summit of Flinders Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, go mountain biking on the park's extensive trail network, or simply enjoy a picnic amidst the native bushland.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes driving

Activities
  • Hiking to Flinders Peak
  • Mountain biking
  • Rock climbing
  • Picnicking

Great Ocean Road (Anglesea)

Kick off your Great Ocean Road adventure with a day trip to Anglesea. This charming coastal town boasts stunning beaches, scenic walking trails, and abundant wildlife. Spot kangaroos grazing on the Anglesea Golf Course, hike to the top of the Split Point Lighthouse for panoramic views, or simply soak up the sun on the beach.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour driving

Activities
  • Spotting kangaroos on Anglesea Golf Course
  • Hiking to Split Point Lighthouse
  • Swimming and sunbathing at Anglesea Beach
  • Exploring the Anglesea River

Queenscliff

Step back in time in the historic seaside town of Queenscliff. Explore the impressive Fort Queenscliff, wander through the charming streets lined with Victorian-era buildings, and take a scenic ferry ride to Sorrento. With its rich maritime history and stunning coastal views, Queenscliff offers a unique and memorable day trip experience.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes driving

Activities
  • Touring Fort Queenscliff
  • Exploring the historic town center
  • Taking a ferry to Sorrento
  • Visiting the Queenscliff Maritime Museum

Ballarat

Delve into the rich history of the Gold Rush era with a day trip to Ballarat. Explore Sovereign Hill, a living museum that recreates life in the 1850s, visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat, or wander through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens. With its fascinating history and cultural attractions, Ballarat offers a captivating day trip experience.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes driving

Activities
  • Visiting Sovereign Hill
  • Exploring the Art Gallery of Ballarat
  • Wandering through the Ballarat Botanical Gardens
  • Learning about the Eureka Stockade