Beyond the Baseline: The Ultimate Melbourne Day Out During the 2026 Tennis & Long Weekend
Melbourne is at its best right now. The sun is out, the city is buzzing, and the Australian Open 2026 has transformed Melbourne into a global summer destination. Between matches, late nights and packed city streets, more visitors are looking beyond the CBD for something calmer and distinctly Victorian.
If you’re searching for Melbourne day trips during the Australian Open, this is your sign to escape the crowds without missing the action. Less than 90 minutes from the city, the Macedon Ranges and Daylesford offer cool-climate wines, fresh country air and space to slow down, all easily accessible on small-group wine tours from Melbourne.
With the Australia Day long weekend approaching, there’s no better time to swap stadium noise for vineyard views
Your tour at a glance: Choosing your escape
Macedon Ranges
Travel Time 55 minutes from Melbourne CBD
Best For Art lovers, architecture fans & AO visitors
Highlights Mount Monument & Hanging Rock
Tennis-Friendly? Yes - return in time for night sessions
Daylesford
Travel Time 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD
Best For Foodies, wellness seekers & long weekends
Highlights Boutique vineyards, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Tennis-Friendly? Best suited to full-day or overnight stays
The Perfect Day Trip: Art and Vines in the Macedon Ranges
If you’re looking for things to do outside Melbourne without sacrificing the evening’s tennis, our Macedon Ranges wine tour is the ideal balance. It’s also perfectly timed to coincide with the Macedon Ranges Summertime Fling (until 25 January).
With central Melbourne CBD pickups located close to the tennis precinct, transitioning from vineyard to centre court couldn’t be easier.
Your day includes:
• Mount Monument - wander through a striking sculpture park designed by Nonda Katsalidis, the visionary architect behind MONA.
• Lunch with a View - Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Mount Macedon Winery, with sweeping views across the ranges.
• Hanging Rock Winery - Finish the afternoon with a guided tasting beneath one of Victoria’s most iconic natural landmarks.
The Night Session Guarantee: You don’t need to worry, we’ll have you back in the CBD by 5:00pm, refreshed and relaxed, with time to reset before the 7:00pm first serve at Rod Laver Arena.
The Daylesford Weekend Escape: Friday to Sunday
For those wanting a deeper regional experience, our Daylesford wine tours with CBD pickup are the gold standard for summer getaways and are especially popular during the Australian Open and long weekends.
This experience suits travellers seeking a relaxed escape on small-group wine tours from Melbourne, where the focus is on quality, connection and local stories.
Expect a carefully curated mix of boutique vineyards, local artisans and regional flavours, brought together by guides who know the region intimately.
Your weekend may include:
Meet the owner at the newly reopened Limestone Track Vineyard, and sample offerings from both long-established and newly planted vines.
Live music and relaxed tastings at Wombat Forest Vineyard.
Elegant cool-climate wines at Attwoods.
Wood-fired pizzas and laid-back afternoons at Daylesford Cidery.
Whether you’re extending your Australian Open stay or planning a summer reset, this is Daylesford at its most authentic.
Wellness & Slower-Paced Options
If your idea of the perfect day leans more towards relaxation than wine tasting, we also offer a Wine & Spa experience.
Begin with a mineral soak at the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, followed by a gourmet regional lunch and a guided wine tasting or refined cocktail to round out your day.
It’s the ultimate recovery for tired feet, long walks, and yes, tennis legs!
Looking Ahead: A Valentine’s Day Escape
As the Australian Open draws to a close, Valentine’s Day 2026 arrives. Skip crowded city restaurants and celebrate with something more personal.
We’re now taking bookings for private, bespoke wine tours, ideal for couples, friends and intimate celebrations in one of Victoria’s most romantic regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are the wine regions from Melbourne?
The Macedon Ranges is approximately 55 minutes from the Melbourne CBD. Daylesford is around 90 minutes by road.
Can I do a wine tour and still see the Australian Open?
Absolutely. Our Macedon Ranges tour is designed specifically for Melbourne day trips during the Australian Open, returning guests in time for evening sessions. Private tours can also be tailored around match schedules.
What are the best things to do in Daylesford for a long weekend?
Wine tasting, soaking at the Hepburn Bathhouse, gallery hopping and exploring Daylesford’s renowned food scene are all highly recommended.
Where are the pickup points for the tours?
We offer central Melbourne CBD pickup locations, close to major hotels and the tennis precinct.
