Botanic Gardens

We all know Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens is stunning all year round.

But in autumn? It’s next level.

Many of the oaks, elms and maples date back to the 19^th century. And every year, they put on a vibrant show of gold, red and burnt orange. It’s peak autumn aesthetic (and the trees know it).

Take a walk through the majestic Oak Lawn before climbing up to Guilfoyle’s Volcano for the most breathtaking views.

Then, grab a coffee at The Terrace Café and watch the stunning colours reflect on the water.

But you’ll need to time your visit right. Early signs of autumn appear in March, with the most vivid colour changes happening from mid-April to early May.

 

 

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens

Next on our list is a place that does not mess around when it comes to autumn – and it’s only an hour from Melbourne. Welcome to the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens.

The drive out is breathtaking in itself. And once you arrive, expect to see maples and cherry trees exploding in shades of red and orange. During your stroll, winding paths will lead you past tall rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.

It’s just like stepping into a painting.

By late May, the trees will start shedding their leaves, but historic gardens like this still hold onto patches of colour, making it worth the trip right until the season’s end.

And after all that autumn beauty? A pastry from a local bakery is non-negotiable. Or take your time exploring nearby Olinda’s charming boutiques.

A perfect autumn day, sorted.

 

 

Carlton Gardens

Right in the heart of the city, Carlton Gardens knows how to put on a show.

Heritage-listed and home to the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum and IMAX, it’s one of the city’s most iconic green spaces.

Its ornamental lakes, grand fountains and tree-lined boulevards make it a crowd favourite. And in autumn? It turns up the charm.

Here, you’ll stroll beneath towering elms and palms and wander past neat flowerbeds and Moreton Bay figs, all with the beautiful, historic buildings as your backdrop.

So, get on a tram, grab a coffee and soak up the season like a true Melburnian.

 

 

Marysville

If you’re chasing peak autumn colour, Marysville delivers – and it’s well worth the weekend trip.

Nestled in the Yarra Valley, this charming mountain town turns fiery red and gold every autumn. The tree-lined streets and forested trails make it dreamy for photographers and nature lovers alike. Trust us, it’s made for Instagram.

If you’re coming from Melbourne, you’ll hit the stunning Black Spur Drive – one of Victoria’s most breathtaking scenic routes. And once you arrive? Marysville greets you with an autumn spectacle straight out of a postcard.

Start your adventure with a walk to Steavenson Falls (one of Victoria’s tallest waterfalls), then slow things down with a cosy café stop before you settle into your storybook-perfect cottage Airbnb.

What more could you want?

 

 

Yarra Valley

If you’re more into wine than wilderness, we’ve got just the place for you.

Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne (and the perfect excuse for a day trip), the Yarra Valley is where rolling hills and wineries collide.

Add autumn to the mix, and it’s Mother Nature showing off (with plenty of wine to go with it).

Think golden oaks, elms and maples lining the vineyards and creating a beautiful red, orange and gold backdrop.

Here, you can sample some of Victoria’s finest drops, float over the valley in a hot air balloon or explore the region’s gardens and forests. All in a day’s work.

 

 

Macedon

If you’re chasing Victoria’s most iconic autumn drive, look no further.

The Avenue of Honour in Macedon is a jaw-dropping tunnel of golden pine oaks, planted in tribute to those who served in World War I.

It’s the kind of scene that makes you want to pull over and take a million photos.

During peak autumn, it’s an absolute must-see. But if you’d rather soak it all in without half of Melbourne joining you, aim for a weekday or an early morning visit.

While you’re there, take a walk through the Tieve Tara Gardens – a stunning 7.5-acre garden full of maples, aspens, liquid ambers and silver birches.

Trust us, few sights are as breathtaking as these trees in their full autumn glory.

 

 

Malvern Gardens

Do you need a nearby autumn escape without the crowds? Malvern Gardens is the spot.

With its tree-lined paths, landscaped gardens and a blanket of golden leaves, it’s a place that practically begs for an afternoon wind-down.

There are plenty of benches to sit on and soak it all in. Or bring a book and bask in the peace.

Once you’ve had your fill of tranquillity, wander over to Glenferrie Road, where you’ll find cosy cafés, boutique shops and some of Melbourne’s best pastries.

It’s the perfect way to round out a gorgeous autumn day.

 

 

Snobs Creek

If you’re interested in heading off the beaten track this autumn, we’ve got just the place.

Snobs Creek, tucked away near Eildon in regional Victoria, is one of those hidden gems you’ll want to brag about.

The main star? Snobs Creek Falls. A short boardwalk will lead you right to the viewing platform – easy to reach and absolutely worth the stop.

While you’re in the area, take the scenic route through forested hills or make a pit stop at a local winery for a well-deserved drop.

Less foot traffic, crisp country air – it’s autumn done right.

 

 

Greville Street, Prahran

There’s no doubt Melbourne’s autumn has a charm that sets it apart – and that’s especially true for inner-city haunt, Greville Street in Prahran.

It’s one of the hippest places to visit this side of the river. And in autumn? It’s something else.

Think tree-lined streets, European architecture and enough cafés, eateries and boutiques to keep you busy.

It’s close enough to Chapel Street to get the hustle and bustle, but just far enough to maintain its laid-back, local charm.

Who doesn’t love a side of crisp air and falling leaves with their shopping?

 

 

Looking for more things to do in Melbourne? Check out The Peer Blog for all our top recommendations.