Melbourne's Cultural Odyssey

Our flights arrive into Melbourne, where we board our luxury 'Diamond Class' coach. We make our way to the hub of Melbourne CBD and check in. This afternoon is at your leisure to explore the many cafés, shops or laneways of Melbourne.

This morning, we explore Werribee Park Mansion, a grand Renaissance Revival estate with 60 rooms. A guided audio tour showcases its opulent interiors, original furnishings, and a stunning entry hall with a grand staircase. Stroll through the beautiful rose gardens before heading to Werribee Open Range Zoo. At the zoo, visit the Australian Trail with native wildlife or the African Trail featuring gorillas, lions, and meerkats. A safari bus ride offers close-up views of rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roaming 494-acre grasslands while learning about endangered species and conservation efforts.

Melbourne is a blend of bustling laneways, world-class restaurants, and captivating museums. The locals love their coffee and serve it up in abundance at cosy cafés. Enjoy a FREE DAY exploring Melbourne at your own pace. Start with a visit to Queen Victoria Market for fresh local produce and a lively atmosphere. Wander through laneways adorned with street art, including the famous Hosier Lane. Stroll along the Yarra River, taking in skyline views and the vibrant Southbank precinct. Discover Melbourne's arts scene at the National Gallery of Victoria or unwind in the tranquil Royal Botanic Gardens.

Lunch is at your own expense today.

We take the scenic route today, travelling the Mornington Peninsula to the Sorrento Pier. From here we board the ferry and take a short cruise across the southern tip of Port Phillip Bay to Queenscliff Harbour. Keep your eyes on the water as you may catch sight of a seal, gannet or dolphin frolicking here. A highlight today is our journey on Australia's premier rail restaurant — the Q Train. Wine and dine in style as this award-winning restaurant travels along the historic Bellarine Railway between Drysdale and Queenscliff. Relax in the restored carriages and enjoy a gastronomical journey unlike anything else you have experienced. A delicious rail journey complemented with unique views of Swan Bay and the Bellarine. After detraining, we return to Melbourne.

Today brings our main event — the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show! With a major focus on emerging lifestyle trends, the show is set to inspire crowds with breathtaking floral displays and spectacular show gardens. Visitors to the show will also experience masterclasses with floral designers, meet key landscape designers, exhibitors and industry experts, as well as peruse the avenues of exhibitors selling everything from bulbs, plants, tools, trinkets and garden accessories. The prestigious show is well established in the psyche of Australians as a 'must see' event. Take your time to really explore today at the event, with several transfers from the show back to our accommodation for those that would like to leave earlier than others. Your afternoon is at leisure.

**As it is festival day, lunch is at your own expense today

Enjoy a free morning for retail therapy and browse the unique hidden surprises in the laneways. We then meet back at the hotel and transfer to Melbourne Airport for our respective flights home. Lunch is at your own expense today.