The smallest of the Australian states, Victoria occupies an area slightly smaller than the United Kingdom, yet it is the most densely populated. That population is highly centralised, with more than 75% of inhabitants living in the state capital, Melbourne.
Victoria holiday destinations start with Melbourne itself: a vibrant, cosmopolitan city which hosts art, music, food and film festivals, and will keep even the most ardent shopaholics happy. Foodies will find more than enough restaurants to sample, and the gothic laneways hide jazz bars, art galleries and exclusive boutiques aplenty. For those prepared to venture further afield however, a real treat awaits, with Melbourne making an ideal base for exploring those Victoria holiday must-sees.
In Yarra valley, you can explore one of Australia's famous wine regions, then proceed on to the Dandenong National Park and Mount Dandenong. There you can explore lush ferny glades and experience soaring forests or take a ride on Australia's oldest steam train, the Puffing Billy. For added luxury, go first class!
Down on the Mornington peninsula you can relax in one of the many sandy inlets or take on the waves on Portsea surf beach, one of Australia's many surfing spots. The wine and food lovers are well catered for again, with more Victoria vineyards and restaurants very much in evidence once more. On the Mornington peninsula you can relax your cares away at a luxurious spa, or swim with dolphins and seals in Sorrento.
Further Victoria holiday destinations can be found along the Murray River. You can cruise the Murray by paddle steamer, houseboat or canoe – even water skis – or enjoy a round of golf on one of the many fabulous courses that the area has to offer.
Gippsland comes into its own in the winter. Whether you want downhill skiing at Mount Baw Baw or a visit to the Valhalla Winter Ljusfest, this is an ideal spot for the winter months. In the summer, the alpine surroundings lend themselves to hiking, biking, rafting and abseiling for the active holidaymaker. And yes, it's a wine region too!
There are so many other places to see on your Victoria holiday: Phillip Island for a beach break surrounded by wildlife; the spectacular ruggedness and Aboriginal rock art of the Grampians; the scenic drive of the Great Ocean Road or the mineral spa at Daylesford. With accommodation ranging from backpacker hostels through bed and breakfasts and self-catering apartments, right up to top end hotels, there is something for everyone in Victoria and a fun-filled time awaits you at your Victoria holiday destination.
Pump up the adrenalin on your next Melbourne holiday with these 10 extreme sports. From ballooning to diving with sharks and dolphins.
For a perfect winter weekend break don't drive past the Yarra Valley, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne.
Top of any list of great Australian drives and one of the world's most scenic coastal routes is Great Ocean Road, built by WW1 veterans.
Get eye to eye with the dolphins of Port Philip Bay, with trips running twice a day, every day during the peak summer season.
Head to the Grampians region in western Victoria and you'll find farm stays have changed... a lot. City living, country views.
Travel the Great Grape Road in Victoria to taste fantastic wine with 21 wine regions, over 850 wineries and 650 cellar doors to choose from.
The Eureka in Ballarat stockade became the stuff of legends where a tragic battle became "a revolution; small in size, but great politically."
The Great Alpine Road, stretching almost 300km from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, is one of Australia's classic summer touring routes.

Sign up for the NRMA Travel newsletter