11 days in Cowes & Melbourne Itinerary

Resting on the northern coast of Philip Island, Cowes is sandwiched between a coast and a forest.

On the 20th (Thu), head off the coast to Churchill Island, then savor a hot drink at National Vietnam Veterans Museum, then learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at The Nobbies Centre, and finally identify plant and animal life at Phillip Island Designated Driver. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: identify plant and animal life at Phillip Island Wildlife Park, then head off the coast to Phillip Island Nature Parks - Koala Reserve, and then take an in-depth tour of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, and more tourist information, read our Cowes trip planner.

If you are flying in from India, the closest major aiport is Melbourne International Airport. In October in Cowes, expect temperatures between 23°C during the day and 11°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 22nd (Sat) to allow time to drive to Melbourne.

The state of Victoria crown jewel, Melbourne boasts shaded streets, leafy residential neighborhoods, vibrant street life, and a picturesque city center.

Change things up with these side-trips from Melbourne: The Great Ocean Road (in Torquay), Cowes (Wildlife Coast Cruises & Phillip Island Nature Parks - Koala Reserve) and Werribee Open Range Zoo (in Werribee). Dedicate the 24th (Mon) to wine at some of the top wineries in the area. The adventure continues: admire the natural beauty at Royal Botanic Gardens, meet the residents at Melbourne Zoo, examine the collection at Melbourne Museum, and see where the action happens at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

To find ratings, reviews, other places to visit, and more tourist information, refer to the Melbourne online holiday planner.

Traveling by car from Cowes to Melbourne takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of taxi and train; or do a combination of bus and train. In October in Melbourne, expect temperatures between 24°C during the day and 9°C at night.