Sometimes, all you need is a quick escape from the city to recharge. Whether you’re craving stunning coastlines, charming country towns, or breathtaking national parks, a three-day road trip is the perfect way to explore without using up all your leave days.
Before hitting the road, consider booking a car hire airport rental for a hassle-free start to your trip. Whether you’re flying in or just looking for a reliable ride, having a rental car ready makes the journey smooth and stress-free.
Here are the best weekend road trip destinations from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane—each packed with adventure, good food, and scenic drives.
From Sydney: Blue Mountains & Mudgee Wine Country
Day 1: Sydney to Blue Mountains
- Start early and drive 90 minutes to Katoomba.
- Visit the iconic Three Sisters, ride the Scenic Railway, and explore Leura’s charming cafes.
- Stay overnight in a cozy mountainside cabin.
Day 2: Blue Mountains to Mudgee
- Drive 2.5 hours to Mudgee, known for its wineries and gourmet food.
- Spend the afternoon wine tasting at Lowe Wines or Logan Wines.
- Enjoy dinner at Pipeclay Pumphouse for a farm-to-table experience.
Day 3: Mudgee to Sydney
- Visit a local farmer’s market or explore the scenic walking trails.
- Stop by Hill End for a historic gold rush experience on your way back.
Tip: If you’re flying into Sydney and need a convenient ride, check out car hire airport rental options for an easy pick-up and drop-off.
From Melbourne: The Great Ocean Road & Otways
Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay
- Drive along the Great Ocean Road, stopping at Bells Beach and Lorne.
- Take in the sunset at Apollo Bay, where you can stay the night.
Day 2: Otways & 12 Apostles
- Hike through the Otway Rainforest, chasing waterfalls like Hopetoun Falls.
- Continue to the 12 Apostles for that postcard-perfect view.
- Stay overnight in Port Campbell.
Day 3: Back to Melbourne via the Grampians
- Drive towards the Grampians National Park for a scenic hike at The Pinnacle.
- Stop for lunch in Halls Gap before heading back to Melbourne.
Pro Tip: Whether you’re landing at Melbourne Airport or starting from the city, a car hire airport rental ensures you hit the road with ease.
From Brisbane: Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa
Day 1: Brisbane to Maleny & Montville
- Drive 90 minutes to Maleny, where you can visit Gardners Falls and Maleny Botanic Gardens.
- Explore the artsy village of Montville, filled with boutique stores and stunning lookouts.
- Stay overnight in a rainforest retreat.
Day 2: Noosa & Everglades Adventure
- Drive to Noosa and hike the Noosa National Park coastal track.
- Take a Noosa Everglades kayak tour, one of only two Everglades in the world!
- Enjoy Noosa’s famous beachfront dining and stay overnight.
Day 3: Glass House Mountains & Return to Brisbane
- Visit the Glass House Mountains, perfect for a sunrise hike.
- Stop by the Australia Zoo before heading back to Brisbane.
Final Tips for a Smooth 3-Day Road Trip
✅ Book accommodation in advance, especially in popular spots.
✅ Pack light, but bring layers for unpredictable weather.
✅ Plan fuel stops, especially in regional areas.
✅ Download offline maps, as reception can be spotty.
✅ Have a loose itinerary—the best road trip moments are often unplanned!
A quick getaway is even easier when you have a reliable rental. If you need one, check out car hire airport rental options to make your trip stress-free from start to finish.
Whether you’re escaping for the beaches, the mountains, or the wineries, these quick getaways offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Ready to hit the road?
