Victoria’s charming main streets are the perfect introduction to the small towns they call home. These vibrant thoroughfares come with a generous dose of charm and offer an excellent way to feel the pulse of the local community. Wander down and you’ll discover beautifully preserved architecture, cosy cafes, antique stores filled with one-of-a-kind finds, trendy boutiques, and bakeries filled with the lingering smell of fresh pastries. Spend a memorable weekend popping in and out of the shops, people-watching, or warming up with a coffee along the way. Even better, some of these towns are budget-friendly in the cooler months and won’t break the bank. Here are some of Victoria’s most picture-perfect main streets, along with the must-visit spots when you make the trip.
1. Beechworth
All Victorian small towns have their charm, but Beechworth is particularly likable. Retaining the spirit of its mid-1850s charm with refined touches along the way, it remains a hidden gem with a postcard-ready main street, spanning Ford and Camp St, that you’ll love exploring. Start your day with coffee and classic breakfast staples at Beechworth Bakery, housed in a charming vintage building, then spend your day admiring the heritage architecture and discovering the many treasures within the town’s beautiful shopfronts. Other local recommended spots include the Beechworth Emporium for high-quality Australian fashion and the quaint Beechworth Honey Shop for all things honey.
2. Woodend
Woodend, tucked away in the heart of the Macedon Ranges, is a quiet slice of paradise that seamlessly combines old-world charm with modern-day comfort. On the town’s main street, you’ll find traditional bakeries with a country touch to sleek cafes and vibrant pubs. Plus, find an interesting mix of shops, with everything from vintage treasures to local finds. If you’re visiting, make sure to check out the iconic Hanging Rock nearby, grab a pint at Holgate Brewhouse, treat yourself to some quality baked goods at The Milko, and find a quiet corner at the Woodend Bookshop for a little reading retreat.
3. Trentham
Trentham may be small, but it’s packed with character. Sandwiched between the popular towns of Woodend and Daylesford, this charming town punches above its weight with its gold rush-era streetscape, boutique stores, warm country pubs, art galleries, and quality food and drink spots. There’s only one street to explore here, so if you’re short on time, you know where to go. Stop by The Cosmopolitan Hotel for a delicious seasonal menu, visit the beloved Trentham Bakery for freshly baked goods and a hot coffee to warm you up on a chilly winter’s day, and check out Kuki Trentham for homewares and fashion while you’re in town.
4. Clunes
Readers and book lovers are no strangers to Clunes, a historic gem that still offers a glimpse of the Victorian gold rush, and one of the few book towns in the world. Take a step back in time with a stroll down its main street and feast your eyes on handsomely preserved architecture from the 19th century. You can also make a beeline for the Clunes Museum to delve deeper into the town’s history, and swing by its selection of cosy cafes and restaurants. Head to one of the town’s many quaint bookshops before making your way to Cafe Fifty Two for vintage charm and very good coffee.
5. Daylesford
Daylesford needs no introduction, but we love talking about it anyway. This scenic spa and wellness town is famous for its historic mineral springs and serene bathhouses, perfect for a relaxing winter soak. Nestled in the lush hills and forests of central Victoria, the town’s main street is bursting with charm, offering a blend of shops, cafes, galleries, and a historical atmosphere. While you’re in town, stop by Bad Habits Cafe for a sunny breakfast or brunch, grab a coffee at Larder Cafe, explore local art at Convent Gallery, and browse the many second-hand and collectible antique stores along the main street.
6. Sorrento
Sorrento is a historic village at the western tip of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, and it’s every bit as charming as it sounds. With boutique shops, cosy art galleries, and charming historical buildings, it’s perfect for a relaxed weekend adventure, just a stone’s throw from Melbourne. The main street stretches from Port Phillip Bay to the rugged Bass Strait coastline, with turquoise ocean views along the way. It’s a place for all seasons but especially delightful in winter if it’s fewer crowds and a cosy atmosphere you’re after. Stop by the lovely Vanilla Slice Cafe for Edwardian-era charm and, of course, a decadent vanilla slice, or the seaside Audrey’s for a more elevated dining experience, then fill your bags at the town’s many quality clothing and retail stores.