Bendigo

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bendigo's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Bendigo's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bendigo Art Gallery, home to impressive collections. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic Rosalind Park to admire its beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Central Deborah Gold Mine for an underground tour to learn about Bendigo's gold rush history. Don't miss the nearby Tramway Museum for a ride on vintage trams.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant such as Masons of Bendigo, known for its modern Australian cuisine. After dinner, relax at a local pub with live music.

day 2
Discover Natural Wonders
morning
:

Visit the Bendigo Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy a coffee surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Take a walk along the garden paths and admire the intricate floral displays.

afternoon
:

Make your way to the Bendigo Pottery, Australia's oldest working pottery, for a demonstration and the chance to create your own piece. Explore the quaint shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a riverside cafe, enjoying views of the flowing Bendigo Creek. Finish your day with a relaxing evening walk by the creek.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a tour of the Bendigo's Indigenous Cultural Centre to learn about the local Aboriginal culture. Enjoy a guided tour that highlights the rich history of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bendigo Joss House Temple, a heritage-listed site reflecting Chinese heritage. Explore the nearby markets and grab a bite from local food stalls.

evening
:

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a local vineyard known for its exquisite wines. Participate in a wine tasting session to enhance your meal experience.

day 4
City Strolls
morning
:

Take a guided walking tour of Bendigo's historic sites and architecture, including the famed Bendigo Town Hall. Discover fascinating stories about the city's past.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Bendigo Marketplace, a shopping haven featuring local boutiques. Spend some time enjoying coffee at one of its cafes.

evening
:

Have a cozy dinner at a bistro downtown, featuring local produce. Cap off the night with a movie at the local cinema.

day 5
Adventure Day
morning
:

Start with a canoe trip on the Campaspe River, an excellent way to experience local wildlife. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the riverbank.

afternoon
:

After paddling, visit the Bendigo Discovery Centre for interactive exhibits. Experience some hands-on learning about science and technology.

evening
:

Book a table at a family-friendly restaurant for dinner. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city center to see the evening lights.

day 6
Outdoor Escapes
morning
:

Begin your day hiking at the nearby Greater Bendigo National Park, known for its stunning natural landscapes. Take in the fresh air and discover local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the park's picnic areas. Continue exploring trails or try cycling on designated paths.

evening
:

Return to the city for a well-deserved dinner at a local steakhouse. Enjoy a hearty meal in a friendly atmosphere.

day 7
Historical Insights
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Bendigo Tramways Depot to learn about the city's tram system history. Experience a vintage tram ride for a taste of the past.

afternoon
:

Tour the Bendigo Chinese Gardens, a tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes. Learn about the significance of Chinese heritage in Bendigo.

evening
:

Dine at a historic hotel restaurant that reflects the architectural beauty of Bendigo. Enjoy live music entertainment after your meal.

day 8
Festivals and Events
morning
:

Check out any local festivals happening during your visit for arts, crafts, or food. Join in on workshops if available to immerse yourself in the culture.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the local fairs experiencing competitive events and entertainment. Sample some gourmet food from local vendors.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a food truck or casual dining spot showcasing local specialties. Afterwards, unwind with the night’s festival entertainment.

day 9
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Kick off with a breakfast tour through Bendigo’s famous cafes, sampling coffee and pastries. Discover hidden gems and local favorites!

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class or food workshop to learn new culinary skills using local ingredients. Explore the produce markets for fresh ingredients.

evening
:

Treat yourself to a tasting menu at a renowned fine dining restaurant. Conclude your culinary journey with a dessert wine tasting.

day 10
Nightscape Exploration
morning
:

Spend the morning visiting the Bendigo Observatory for astronomy enthusiasts. Learn about the stars and planets with fascinating facts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cafe with outdoor seating. Visit the local gallery to view exhibitions by contemporary artists.

evening
:

In the evening, join a guided night sky tour to stargaze through telescopes. Wrap up your day with coffee or dessert at a boutique cafe.

Discover Bendigo

Read more in our Bendigo 2024 Travel Guide.

Bendigo Travel Guide