Great Ocean Road: 3 Day Road Trip Itinerary

Australia

Three days from Melbourne through coastal towns, the Otways and the Twelve Apostles, returning by the inland road.

Suggested season: November–March

Driving estimates exclude stops, traffic and ferry waits. Pins represent town/area centres; use the daily map links for navigation.

Day 1: Melbourne → Torquay → Lorne → Apollo Bay

Stop on the coast in Torquay and take a lunchtime walk in Lorne. Reach Apollo Bay in daylight and relax by the water.

3.5–5 hours driving · Overnight: Apollo Bay

Google Maps

Day 2: Apollo Bay → Port Campbell

Choose an open short forest walk in the Otways. Check access before visiting the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge viewpoints.

2–3.5 hours driving · Overnight: Port Campbell

Google Maps

Day 3: Port Campbell → Melbourne

Take a final coastal stop before returning inland to Melbourne. Leave a generous buffer for the drive and rental return before flying.

3–4 hours driving · Overnight: End of itinerary

Google Maps

Before you drive

Allow time to adjust to driving on the left. Avoid dusk driving around wildlife and check park and road closures.

Official destination information

Estimated budget for two

Illustrative October 2026 planning allowances, not live prices or quotes. Two adults, one rental car, a shared mid-range room and 2 nights. Flights, visas, insurance upgrades, deposits and one-way rental fees excluded. Peak season and major activities may exceed these amounts.

Room per night: 150–260 AUD
Car per day: 60–110 AUD
Food for two per day: 75–120 AUD
Fuel for the trip: 100–170 AUD
Visits, parking and toll allowance: 50–130 AUD

Total range including 10% reserve: 941–1661 AUD

Midpoint estimate / per person: 1302 / 651 AUD

Hours, fees and access may change; check official links before travelling.