Bendigo

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the Bendigo Visitor Centre, where you can grab a map and learn about the city's rich gold mining history. Stroll through the Central Deborah Gold Mine to take a guided tour, descending underground to see how gold was extracted during the 19th century. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies and freshly brewed coffee.

After lunch, head to the Bendigo Art Gallery, which showcases an impressive collection of Australian and international art. Spend time exploring the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings surrounding the gallery, including the iconic Bendigo Town Hall. To wrap up your afternoon, visit the Rosalind Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among manicured gardens and the stunning conservatory.

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of Bendigo’s acclaimed restaurants, focusing on local produce. Post-dinner, catch a live performance at the Capital Theatre, where you can enjoy everything from musicals to local productions. Finally, take a leisurely stroll around the city’s beautifully illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Begin your morning at the Bendigo Pottery, Australia's oldest pottery, where you can explore the galleries and even try your hand at pottery-making. Engage with local artisans and learn about traditional pottery techniques while enjoying a delicious coffee at the on-site café. Spend some time browsing the unique gift shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

In the afternoon, visit the Bendigo Joss House Temple, a stunning Chinese temple that reflects the city’s multicultural heritage. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Bendigo Science and Technology Centre, where you can engage with interactive exhibits and learn about science in a fun way. Make sure to grab lunch at one of the local eateries, enjoying a taste of Bendigo’s diverse culinary scene.

As evening approaches, explore the local nightlife by visiting craft breweries or wine bars that showcase regional beverages. Pair your drinks with some tapas-style dishes for a relaxed dining experience. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Bendigo Creek, enjoying the serene ambiance and the sound of water flowing.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a horseback riding adventure in the scenic Goldfields region. Join a guided tour that takes you through lush landscapes and historical sites, often stopping to share stories about the area’s gold rush past. Breathe in the fresh air while bonding with your horse and taking in stunning views.

After your ride, enjoy a picnic lunch in a picturesque setting surrounded by nature, savoring fresh produce from local markets. Visit the historic town of Castlemaine, exploring its charming streets filled with boutique shops and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to discover the Castlemaine Art Gallery, one of the oldest regional galleries in Australia.

Return to Bendigo for a cozy dinner at a local pub, where you can indulge in hearty Australian fare. After dinner, attend a local event or market if available, where you can experience the community spirit and perhaps pick up some unique local crafts. Wind down your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

Start your day with a visit to the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, where you can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the diverse plant species. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the various flora and fauna that thrive in the area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the gardens' café, surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, head to the Greater Bendigo National Park, where you can hike along well-marked trails while spotting local wildlife, including kangaroos and various bird species. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic areas within the park, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Consider visiting the nearby Bendigo Zoo, home to both native and exotic animals, enhancing your wildlife experience.

As the day winds down, return to Bendigo and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets, perhaps stopping at a local dessert shop for something sweet. You may also find live music or local events happening, offering a taste of Bendigo’s nightlife.

Begin your morning at the Bendigo Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods from local vendors. Interact with the friendly stallholders and gather ingredients for a picnic later in the day. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the nearby cafés, featuring local produce in their dishes.

After your market visit, take a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare traditional Australian dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by having a leisurely lunch with your fellow cooking enthusiasts. Spend some time exploring Bendigo’s quaint shops and boutiques, discovering unique gifts and treasures.

As night falls, indulge in a unique dining experience at a restaurant that focuses on pairing food with local wines. Immerse yourself in the culinary scene as you enjoy a multi-course meal, savoring the flavors of regional cuisine. Conclude the evening with a visit to a local distillery or brewery, where you can sample craft spirits or beers while mingling with fellow travelers.

Start your day with breakfast at a lovely café in the city center before heading to the Bendigo Railway Station. Board the vintage steam train for a scenic ride through the historic landscapes of the Goldfields region, enjoying the charming views along the way. Listen to intriguing stories from the train staff about the history of rail travel in Australia.

Upon arrival at your destination, take time to explore the historic township and visit local museums that showcase life during the gold rush. Enjoy lunch at a quaint café, sampling local dishes and taking in the relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the town, visiting artisan shops and galleries that highlight local craftsmanship.

Return to Bendigo by train, where you can enjoy a sunset view from your seat. Once back in Bendigo, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, experiencing more of the local flavors. To wrap up the day, consider attending a local trivia night or game night at a bar, joining in on some fun with locals.

Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast at a local café before embarking on an exhilarating gold panning adventure at a nearby goldfield. Join a guided tour that takes you to historical mining sites, where you can try your luck at finding gold while learning about the gold rush era. Enjoy the thrill of uncovering treasures from the past.

After your gold panning experience, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot, reminiscing about your finds and the stories shared during the tour. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby historic town of Maldon, known for its charming architecture and gold rush history. Visit the local shops and galleries, immersing yourself in the town's culture.

Return to Bendigo for a delightful dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine, where you can share your day’s adventures with your dining companions. After dinner, consider joining a guided ghost tour that explores Bendigo's haunted history, offering a unique perspective on the city's past. End your evening with a relaxing drink at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s excitement.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Bendigo Art Gallery for a morning of artistic inspiration. Explore the various exhibitions, focusing on both contemporary and historical pieces that reflect the region's culture. Participate in a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks on display.

In the afternoon, join an art workshop at a local studio, where you can unleash your creativity and learn new techniques from experienced artists. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, discussing your artistic endeavors with fellow participants. Spend some time wandering the local art shops, discovering unique pieces created by Bendigo artists.

As evening approaches, indulge in a gourmet dinner at a restaurant that features art-inspired décor and a menu that showcases local ingredients. Afterward, attend an art exhibition opening or a cultural event happening in the city, engaging with the local art community. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a trendy bar, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Bendigo’s nightlife.

Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at a health-focused café, fueling up for a day of relaxation and wellness. Visit a local spa for a rejuvenating massage or wellness treatment that incorporates natural, locally sourced products. Take some time to meditate or practice yoga in a serene outdoor setting, allowing yourself to unwind.

After your spa experience, enjoy a healthy lunch at a café that specializes in fresh, organic dishes, perfect for nourishing your body. Spend your afternoon exploring the peaceful surroundings of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, taking leisurely walks and enjoying the tranquility. Consider participating in a holistic workshop that focuses on wellness practices, such as mindfulness or meditation.

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a wholesome dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Engage in meaningful conversations with your dining companions, sharing insights and experiences from the day. Conclude your wellness retreat with a calming evening walk under the stars, reflecting on your journey and newfound relaxation.