3 Day Combo: Great Ocean Road, Penguin Parade and FREE City Tour

Exploring Melbourne and Surroundings: A 3-Day Tour Worth Considering

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and want to see the best of Victoria without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this 3-day combo tour from Go West Tours could be just what you need. It’s a well-rounded package that combines the iconic scenery of the Great Ocean Road, the adorable Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, and a complimentary city tour to get your bearings in Melbourne.

What really stands out about this experience are the small-group setting—with up to 24 guests, it feels intimate enough to ask questions—and the multilingual audio guide app that makes it accessible for travelers from all backgrounds. For us, the convenience of organized transportation and expert commentary really adds value, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to relax and soak it all in rather than worry about navigation.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite packed, with long days and a lot of moving parts. If you’re looking for a slow, relaxing holiday, this might feel a bit brisk. Also, since the itinerary is fixed, it’s best suited for those who want a structured experience rather than a highly customizable one.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Melbourne’s surroundings in a short amount of time, with the comfort of knowledgeable guides and hassle-free logistics. It’s especially good if you’re traveling solo, as the small group makes meeting others easy, but it’s also a solid choice for couples or friends wanting an efficient, well-organized trip.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: The tour covers major sights and includes entry fees for the Phillip Island Penguin Parade and Moonlit Sanctuary.
• Comfortable transport: Upgraded seating on air-conditioned coaches makes long days more pleasant.
• Expert guides & tech: Guides are praised for their knowledge, and the multilingual app makes the experience accessible.
• Balanced itinerary: The stops include iconic sights, wildlife encounters, and city highlights without feeling rushed.
• Long days, full experience: Be prepared for 7 am start times and full schedules, especially on Day 2.
• Highly rated: Consistent 5-star reviews, with travelers praising guide professionalism and scenery.

The Full Experience Breakdown

Day 1: The Great Ocean Road

We loved the way this tour kicks off with a smooth city pickup, setting a stress-free tone for the day. Traveling in a premium vehicle with upgraded seats makes a noticeable difference when you’re on the road for hours. The first stop at Torquay offers a beachside morning tea, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the surf town vibe. It’s a simple but appreciated touch to start the day.

Next, the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway provides a perfect photo op—an iconic gateway marking the start (or end) of this legendary stretch. From here, your guide will help you spot koalas in their natural habitat, a highlight for many—especially since the guide’s storytelling adds context and makes animal sightings more meaningful.

Apollo Bay is a charming spot for lunch, giving you time to enjoy some local fare before heading to Cape Patton Lookout, where panoramic views of cliffs and coastline are breathtaking. The Mait’s Rest rainforest walk transports you into a green wonderland—towering trees, ancient ferns, and the soothing sounds of nature—offering a peaceful break from the driving.

The highlight of the day for most is the Twelve Apostles, those towering limestone stacks rising from the sea—truly one of Australia’s most photogenic spots. The Gibsons Steps allow you to descend to the beach, offering a different perspective of these formations. Finally, Loch Ard Gorge adds a touch of history, with stories of shipwrecks and tragedy making the scenery all the more poignant.

Reviewers frequently mention how the scenic stops and storytelling make the journey memorable. One traveler shared: “Wont be forgotten the feeling & atmospheric experience especially the Twelve Apostles,” highlighting how impactful these views are.

Day 2: Wildlife and Phillip Island

The second day begins again with a convenient pickup, setting a tone of ease. The first stop at Brighton Bathing Boxes is a colorful photo opportunity—an Instagram favorite for many. Then, a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary offers an authentic chance to feed kangaroos and wallabies, and see Australian animals up close, which many reviews describe as a “fabulous wildlife experience”.

The real star of this day is Phillip Island. Our guides are praised for their engaging commentary, sharing stories and facts about the local fauna, especially the penguins. The Penguin Parade is the showstopper—watching the smallest penguins emerge from the sea and waddle to their burrows is a uniquely Australian experience. The guides’ expertise in securing the best seats and providing insightful commentary ensures you won’t miss a moment, and many reviews highlight the magical atmosphere of this event.

The stops at Cape Woolamai and The Nobbies during the summer are highlights for nature lovers—rugged cliffs, seal colonies, and panoramic ocean views. The dinner break in Cowes is a relaxing spot for a casual meal and a chance to soak in the seaside vibe.

Day 3: Melbourne City Highlights

On the final day, you get to experience Melbourne’s urban charm. The day begins with a stroll through Hosier Lane, famous for its vibrant street art. It’s a lively, colorful reminder of Melbourne’s creative spirit.

Next, we visit the Shrine of Remembrance, offering a moment of reflection and insight into Australia’s military history. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pass-by gives a quick look at one of Australia’s most iconic sports venues, sparking a sense of local pride.

Driving through Parliament Hill and stopping at St. Patrick’s Cathedral show off Melbourne’s architectural grandeur, while Fitzroy Gardens provide a peaceful escape and a nice chance for photos. The Old Melbourne Gaol adds a historical touch, with stories of Australia’s early justice system, including Ned Kelly, adding depth to the visit.

The day wraps up with a leisurely walk through Melbourne’s Little Italy, where you’ll find some of the best local food and coffee, and a quick drive past the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere.

Practicalities & Value

This tour is priced at around $239.56 per person, which may seem steep at first glance, but the inclusion of transport, entry fees, and the expert guidance makes it quite reasonable for a packed three days of sightseeing. Reviews mention the comfort of the vehicle and the professionalism of the guides, which are big pluses.

The small group size means you get more personalized attention, and the multilingual app helps make the experience accessible to international travelers. WiFi on board is a nice touch, letting you share those scenic shots in real-time.

What Could Be Better?

While the schedule is designed for maximum exposure, it’s definitely busy. If you prefer taking your time at each stop, this might feel rushed, especially on the long days. Also, since the Phillip Island Penguin Parade prohibits photography during the event, you won’t be able to capture those moments—though many find the experience so magical they prefer to just enjoy it in the moment.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day combo tour offers an impressive way to experience some of Victoria’s most famous sights without the stress of planning. The mix of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and Melbourne’s urban charms makes it a well-rounded choice, especially for those who want a guided experience with all logistics taken care of.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy organized tours, are comfortable with full days of sightseeing, and appreciate the value of expert guides and convenience. Families, couples, or friends looking to maximize their time and see a lot in a short period will find this package offers a lot for the money.

If you’re after an immersive, hassle-free way to experience Melbourne and its surroundings, this tour checks many boxes—and with rave reviews, it’s clearly a popular choice for many travelers. Just be ready for the early starts and the busy schedule, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of great memories.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from selected hotels, which makes getting started much easier. However, for the Melbourne city tour, pickup is only available from a central meeting point.

Are all entry fees included?
Most entry fees are included, like the Moonlit Sanctuary and Phillip Island Penguin Parade. Other attractions, such as meals, are not included unless specified.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 24, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

Can I book this tour for a specific date?
Yes, you choose the date of your Great Ocean Road tour at checkout, while Phillip Island and the city tour are booked for subsequent days, with flexible date options for the city tour.

How long are the days?
Expect early starts around 7:00 am and full schedules through the afternoon, especially on Days 1 and 2, with the Penguin Parade lasting about two hours.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, most stops are family-friendly, including wildlife parks and scenic views. However, consider the long days and early mornings when planning for young children.

This detailed review aims to give you enough insight to decide whether this tour fits your travel style. With its combination of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and urban exploration, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a glimpse of Victoria’s highlights in a structured, guided format.