Melbourne day-trippers can escape the city for less than $100, with Warburton, Torquay and Queenscliff named Victoria’s three most affordable destinations in a new cost comparison.
The study by ROLLiN compared the estimated cost of a day out for two adults across 73 Australian destinations, measuring expenses including food, attractions, park entry and fuel from each capital city.
Warburton claimed the top spot for Melbourne, with an estimated total of just $72.23. That includes $21.61 in fuel and an average $50.59 for food for two.
Torquay came in second at $93.40, followed by Queenscliff at $96.19, making all three destinations affordable options for a weekend escape without a big travel budget.
Each offers something different, from Warburton’s forest walks and mountain scenery to the coastal attractions of Torquay and Queenscliff.
The research found nine of Melbourne’s 10 cheapest destinations charge nothing for their main attraction, meaning food and fuel account for most of the expense.
Further down the list, Daylesford was estimated at $114.30, Lorne at $116.04 and Apollo Bay at $119.96.
However, costs climbed considerably for some destinations. Ballarat recorded an estimated $239.88 for two adults, with a $136 attraction fee accounting for more than half the total. Halls Gap, the Dandenong Ranges and Healesville also exceeded $200.
For travellers looking beyond the cheapest options, Geelong ranked highest for overall value, scoring 70.98 out of 100. Its estimated $104.83 day out includes access to 23 natural attractions, 27 free activities and seven beaches. Bendigo ranked second for value, followed by Torquay.
The figures are estimates based on prices collected during the study and may vary.
