Best Winery Day Trips from Major Australian Cities

Looking for a fun and flavour-filled escape that won’t take you far from the city? Whether you're crushing crisp Chardonnay or getting lost in a bold Shiraz, these grape-flavoured day trips from Australia’s capitals promise an easy escape with world-class wines, mouthwatering food, and breathtaking scenery. All you need to do is nominate a designated driver, pop on your favourite playlist, and hit the road, and you’ll be tasting your way through some of Australia’s best wines in no time. 

Southern Highlands, NSW

Just a two-hour drive from Sydney, the Southern Highlands is known for producing elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. With scenic spots like Belmore Falls and historic towns like Bowral and Berrima, the region offers the perfect mix of wine, food, and natural beauty for oenophiles. Start at Artemis Wines in Mittagong for award-winning wines paired with local cheeses. Head to Bendooley Estate in Berrima for vineyard views, fine dining, and a charming bookstore. Then finish your day at Sutton Forest Estate Wines to sample Italian-style wines like Pinot Noir before heading back to town. 

Barossa Valley, SA 

The Barossa Valley, just an hour from Adelaide, is home to some of the best Shiraz in the world, thanks to the region's hot, dry climate and mineral-rich soils. But visitors will also find fabulous Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Add great restaurants and stunning views, and you have all the ingredients for an exceptional day trip from Adelaide. Wineries like the historic Penfolds Barossa Valley Cellar Door and Thorn-Clarke Wines showcase the region's full-bodied reds, while 1837 Barossa is a top spot for Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. 

Yarra Valley, VIC  

The Yarra Valley, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is celebrated for producing top-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and sparkling wines. The region’s cool temperatures, gravelly soils, and ample rainfall result in wines known for their balance and elegance. Lush landscapes and its easy proximity to Melbourne make the Yarra Valley a perfect day trip destination. Don't miss Rochford Wines, renowned for its classic local wines, fine dining, and entertainment experiences, and De Bortoli Wines for exceptional varietals and stunning vineyard views. 

Swan Valley, WA  

Swan Valley, just 35 minutes from Perth, offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation in wine production, with its warm climate and rich, sandy soils ideal for varieties like Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc. Black Swan Winery is a standout for its premium wines, especially Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by stunning views and gourmet dining. Lancaster Wines also delivers exceptional reds, while Windy Creek Estate is celebrated for its sparkling wines and Chardonnay. 

Tamar Valley, TAS  

Just two hours from Launceston, the Tamar Valley produces some of the country’s finest Pinot Noir and sparkling wines. The region’s gravelly, well-drained soils and proximity to the coast contribute to wines with a crisp acidity and refined elegance. Wineries such as Janz, Josef Chromy, and Stony Rise create wines that showcase the cool-climate signature of Tasmania. The valley’s lush landscape and riverside views add a scenic touch to a fantastic wine-tasting experience.