where to visit in bendigo

20 Incredible things to do in Bendigo 

Travel Journalist

15 February 2023

If you swoon at the sight of heritage architecture and love the finer things in life (read: food, wine, art), then make a beeline for Bendigo – a regional Victorian city that straddles the past and the future with aplomb.    

Drive north of Melbourne along the Calder Freeway and in just under two hours you’ll arrive at Bendigo , a gold rush town that has grown into a thriving regional centre experiencing yet another boom.

Immerse yourself in the rich stories of the town’s golden past. (Image: Visit Victoria)

As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, culinary experiences should be at the top of your agenda when travelling to Bendigo, but there’s much more to see and do beyond dining at top-rated restaurants . Here’s a range of must-do experiences to add to your list. 

Fun things to do in Bendigo

Home to talented artisans, thriving modern galleries and enduring institutions that have made their mark on history, finding fun is easy in Bendigo.

1. Get your bearings on a Vintage Talking Tram Tour

See Bendigo’s noteworthy landmarks and monuments while learning about the city’s past aboard a charming Vintage Talking Tram .

Explore Bendigo aboard a Vintage Talking Tram. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Easily one of the most fun ways to get the lay of the land in a new city, a 45-minute ride on a Vintage Talking Tram reveals tales from the gold rush, architectural trivia and stories of local legends – don’t miss it.

Hop on a tram to start your historical tour around the streets of Bendigo. (Image: Visit Victoria)

2. See artisans in action at Bendigo Pottery

Established back in 1858, a visit to Bendigo Pottery is a shopping trip, history lesson and art appreciation afternoon all in one. Watch artisans creating the famous pottery that’s found in homes Australia-wide, shop for unique vintage finds at the Antiques and Collectibles Centre, and refuel at the onsite cafe with some scones and tea.

Visit Australia’s oldest working pottery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Want to pick up some pottery skills? Book in for a wheel throwing lesson, attend a clay decorating workshop or try some simple clay play – there’s plenty of interactive experiences to enjoy here.

Catch local artisans in action at Bendigo Pottery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

3. Get your culture fix at Bendigo Art Gallery

One of Australia’s oldest and largest regional galleries , Bendigo Art Gallery is a must-do when you’re in town. Founded in 1887, the gallery on View Street has hosted many noteworthy international exhibitions that sell out in advance, so hop online and check the gallery’s website to see what touring exhibitions are scheduled during your stay.

Get acquainted with Bendigo’s rich culture and heritage. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Regardless of what’s on, the well-curated gallery spaces are always filled with an interesting mix of contemporary and historical paintings, sculptures and ceramics from near and far. The Gallery Shop is also a top spot to pick up a unique souvenir to remind you of your time in Bendigo. 

Browse through the extensive art gallery collection. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Free things to do

With plenty of free activities and experiences on offer, a trip to Bendigo doesn’t have to break the bank.  

4. Explore the botanical beauty of Rosalind Park

Right in the centre of Bendigo you’ll find one of Bendigo’s most beautiful greenspaces, Rosalind Park . A paradise packed with horticultural treasures, on a hot day you’ll be able to cool yourself under the shade of grand, old elms and oaks.

Go on a relaxing walk under the shade of tall trees at Rosalind Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

During spring, be sure to see the park’s annual display of colourful tulips. All year round, the walled Yi Yuan Chinese Gardens are a peaceful spot for quiet reflection. With a conservatory, fernery and several water features to see, set aside an hour or two to take it all in.   

See colourful flowers inside its manicured gardens. (Image: Visit Victoria)

5. Find peace at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion

Fifty metres high, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is the biggest stupa (or pagoda) in the Western world. A place for people to seek peace and learn about Buddhism, this stupa sits within 200-plus acres of bushland in the Whipstick Forest, so is a serene spot to spend a few hours exploring on a self-guided, free tour.

After you’ve explored the stupa, wander through the Peace Park where you can spin prayer wheels clockwise to send compassionate energy out into the world. The StupaView Cafe serves delicious vegetarian gyoza too!  

Get up close and personal with the largest Buddhist stupa in the Western world.

6. Roam free at Bendigo Botanic Gardens

Located in the White Hills area of Bendigo, the sprawling Bendigo Botanic Gardens are nearly as old as Bendigo itself. The perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch followed by a wander, you’ll be able to see a wide variety of seasonal flowers in bloom during the warmer months. Kids getting restless? Reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland , the whimsical children’s playspace is so impressive it’s won awards.  

Things to do for families

Travelling with kids? Bendigo has plenty of hands-on experiences to keep visitors of all ages engaged and entertained.  

7. Have your mind blown at the Discovery Science & Technology Centre

If you’ve got some budding scientists in your family, then visit Bendigo’s Discovery Science & Technology Centre . With more than 100 interactive exhibits, learning about physics, chemistry and beyond is fun at this centre that merges education with entertainment. Head into the planetarium to go on an interplanetary journey, feel a rush on the vertical slide, or build something with blocks in the Kaleidoscope space – there’s activities for all ages and abilities here.  

8. Head underground at Central Deborah Mine

All the family will love putting on a hard hat to learn about Bendigo’s gold rush history at the Central Deborah Mine . Sixty-one metres below the earth’s surface, you’ll get to walk in the footsteps of the miners who worked hard in the underground tunnels searching for gold in challenging conditions. Above ground, you’ll also be able to see heritage-listed buildings including an engine room and blacksmith’s shop.  

9. Bowl a few strikes at Bendigo Bowling Centre

Looking for a fun rainy-day activity? Book an afternoon bowling session at the Bendigo Bowling Centre . Operating since the 1960s, this longstanding ten-pin bowling centre is the official home of old-school fun in Bendigo.  

Romantic things to do in Bendigo

From dining at a hatted restaurant to drinking cocktails at a rooftop bar, Bendigo has many special spots for loved-up couples to connect.     

10. Share exceptional culinary experiences

As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, a romantic night of wining and dining should be high on the list for couples. To celebrate in style, head to Masons of Bendigo (a table reservation is essential) to dine on the very best Central Victorian produce.

Experience paddock-to-plate dining at Masons of Bendigo. (Image: Visit Victoria)

What was once the basement of an old school hall is now Ms Batterhams , an exceptional dinner spot dripping with personality. Book the chef’s share menu to enjoy seasonally inspired plates prepared by Head Chef Travis Rodwell.  

Leave room for dessert at Mrs Batterhams. (Image: Tourism Australia)

11. Pick up a paintbrush at Pinot & Picasso

Sipping wine while painting a canvas is a fun way to get to know each other on another level. Book a painting (and drinking) session at Pinot & Picasso Bendigo and you’ll get to leave with a unique memento of your trip to Bendigo to hang in your home. Who knows, you might uncover some hidden creative talents too.  

Unique things to do

Searching for something out of the ordinary to do while you’re in town? Bendigo’s left-of-centre experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.  

12. Let the good times roll aboard Bendigo’s Blues Tram

Enjoy live music, local brews and a tour of the city all at once aboard Bendigo’s beloved Blues Tram – a heritage tram that rattles through Bendigo carrying passengers and musicians. With stops to purchase drinks along the way, a few hours aboard the Blues Tram listening to local musos tear it up is an afternoon well spent.   

13. Uncover local history at the Golden Dragon Museum

You might be surprised to know that Chinese immigrants who arrived during the gold rush played an important role in shaping Bendigo. Opened in 1991, the Golden Dragon Museum is a cultural centre dedicated to preserving the heritage of Chinese culture in Australia. Spend a few hours here wandering around the beautiful gardens and seeing Loong, the world’s oldest surviving complete processional dragon. Feeling peckish? Visit the museum’s restaurant, Hawker to feast on Chinese cuisine.  

Things to do at night

Whether you’re keen to catch a movie in a vintage cinema, slurp down a bowl of vegan ramen or laugh ‘til you cry at a stand-up comedy show, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Bendigo after dark.   

14. Soak up some culture at Ullumbarra Theatre

Bendigo’s renowned Ullumbarra Theatre was once a gaol, but these days the heritage-listed venue hosts a rotating calendar of events all year round. From rock bands to stand-up comedy, classical music recitals, contemporary dance performances and beyond, this theatre is where creativity and culture come to life in Bendigo .   

15. Step back in time at the Star Cinema

Located within the old Eaglehawk Town Hall, the Star is considered to be one of Australia’s most beautiful cinemas. Showing a range of new releases and classic movies, a night in this vintage cinema’s plush couches will delight film fans. Afterwards, head upstairs to the Chambers Wine Bar for a nightcap.  

16. Toast your trip at Bendigo’s bars

Unwinding with a drink is a standard holiday ritual many of us partake in to kick off our break. When it’s sunny, head to Nimbus Rooftop on Mitchell Street for cocktails served with the best view in town. On High Street you’ll find Harpoon Social Club , a cool spot for some Japanese beer, sake or frozen cocktails (stick around and order some ramen or bao too).

Discover an eclectic mix of eateries and boutique-style shops along Bendigo’s endearing laneway. (Image: Visit Victoria)

On the ground floor of the Royal Mail Hotel, Hargreaves is a moody wine and cocktail bar that’s open late most nights. Stop in for an espresso martini to kick off proceedings or cosy up in a nook and polish off a bottle of pinot noir while grazing on an antipasto.

Don’t forget to pair your wine with Hargreaves’ must-try antipasto board.

Things to do around Bendigo

Forest-fringed walking trails, mountain biking spots, family-run vineyards and tiny towns with big personalities are all within striking distance of Bendigo.  

17. Tuck into pies and ales at a classic country pub

Hop in the car, drive 50 minutes southeast and you’ll hit the small town of Tooborac. With a population hovering at around 300 people, this town punches above its weight thanks to the legendary bluestone Tooborac Hotel & Brewery – the oldest National Trust-listed country pub in Victoria. Enjoy a hearty Sunday roast by the fire washed down with a porter or pale ale. Or pop in next door to the cute pie shop for a just-baked beef and ale pie instead.   

Grab a bite of Tooborac’s mushroom beef pie.

18. Get some fresh air in Harcourt

Drive half an hour south of Bendigo and you’ll hit the town of Harcourt which is home to wineries, distilleries and one of the best spots to mountain bike in Victoria. La Larr Ba Gauwa Park may be a mecca for mountain bikers, but it’s a top hiking and picnicking spot too. With a range of trails suitable for different levels of experience and fitness, the jumps and drops at this park will thrill adventurous mountain bikers. Prefer to kick back with a picnic lunch? Head to the magical Oak Forest to soak up the serenity in the shade.   

19. Go on an antique hunting road trip

Central Victoria is home to many well-preserved gold rush-era towns packed with vintage and antique shops. Castlemaine, Maldon and Chewton can all be reached in under half an hour from Bendigo.

Stroll along the vibrant streetscape of Castlemaine. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spend your day fossicking in this area’s incredible vintage stores, antique shops and op-shops to find one-of-a-kind homewares, vinyl records and rare books. Fair warning: you’ll need to set aside a few hours to hunt through all of Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar’s treasures .       

Shop great finds at the vintage bazaar. (Image: Visit Victoria)

20. Enjoy a whistlestop tour aboard a heritage steam train

Train enthusiasts won’t want to miss a ride aboard an old steam train along the Victorian Goldfields Railway . Stretching between Maldon and Castlemaine, the journey winds its way through forests and farmland, offering passengers incredible views as well as insight into how steam trains operate. Run by a band of passionate volunteers, this is a feel-good trip that train lovers of all ages will delight in. 

Planning to visit Bendigo soon? Check out our ultimate travel guide to Bendigo here .

Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature, pop culture, music, art, design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria. When not writing, you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops, antique stores and garage sales.

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Things to Do in Bendigo (Australia)

15 Best Things to Do in Bendigo (Australia)

Near the remote centre of Victoria is a city that sprouted all of a sudden during the Victorian gold rush of the mid-19th century.

Bendigo is on one of the richest goldfields in the world, and its mines have produced more than 780,000kg of gold.

Among the tens of thousands of hopeful diggers that showed up 170 years ago was a large Chinese contingent.

To this day, Bendigo has a prominent Chinese community, documented at the Golden Dragon Museum and visible especially in the annual Easter Festival.

Bendigo’s Midas touch left the city with graceful 19th-century architecture and attractions that endure to this day.

1. Central Deborah Gold Mine

This mine near Bendigo’s city centre yielded almost a metric ton of gold between 1939 and 1954. The Central Deborah Gold Mine opened during a revival of the city’s gold industry, and work continued even during the Second World War.

Since 1986 this has been a tourist attraction, and the tight main shaft was widened to make things a bit more comfortable for visitors.

How much you see of the mine depends on how adventurous you’re feeling.

The basic Mine Experience for example takes you to a depth of 61 metres to get a sense of this warren of tunnels.

This tour takes just over an hour, but if you’re brave you can try the Underground Adventure at 85 metres, or even the Nine Levels of Darkness tour, which descends in the original miners’ cage to 225 metres below the earth’s surface.

This subterranean journey will take more than three hours, during which you’ll tuck into a miner’s lunch and clamber up and down ladders.

2. Bendigo Art Gallery

Inaugurated way back in 1887, the Bendigo Art Gallery grew out of the Volunteer Rifle’ room and has been extended over time.

The most recent addition was the arresting sculpture gallery added in 2001 and designed by Melbourne’s Fender Katsalidis Architects.

The Bendigo Art Gallery’s inventory spans 19th, 20th and 21st-century painting, sculpture, photography, works on paper and decorative arts.

The collection is particularly strong for its European and Australian painting from the 19th century, counting pieces by luminaries like Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, Ernest Waterlow, Charles Conder and Arthur Streeton.

The museum has a programme of crowd-pleasing temporary shows, dealing with anything from 20th-century cultural icons to ancient artefacts loaned by the British Museum.

3. Bendigo Chinese Gardens Reserve and Golden Dragon Museum

Bendigo has had a Chinese community since the days of the gold rush, and the museum chronicling this Chinese heritage is actually on the site of one of early Bendigo’s Chinatowns.

This attraction opened in 1991 and looks at the lives of these citizens, and how Chinese culture has influenced the city from the 1850s to the present.

The Golden Dragon Museum has a national profile, as a hub of Chinese-related cultural activities in Australia.

At the core of the collection is a stunning array of processional regalia from the late-19th century, comprising theatrical costumes brocaded with gold thread.

The oldest artefacts here go back to the time of the (1600-1026 BCE). You can also see what are thought to be the world’s oldest and longest imperial dragons.

Sun Loong for instance is more than 100 metres long and has appeared at the Bendigo Easter Festival every year since 1901. We also have to mention the authentic gardens, designed like the Imperial Palace in Beijing and complete with the Buddhist Temple of the Goddess of Mercy (Guan Yin Miao).

4. Lake Weeroona

From the 1850s to the 1870s one of the loveliest spots in Bendigo was actually a mine.

Then in 1878 the art director of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens oversaw this site’s transformation into an 18-hectare body of water.

Lake Weeroona is within a reserve and has a path through relaxing wooded parkland encircling its banks.

On a leisurely walk it will take about 20 minutes to complete a circuit.

There’s a cafe on the east shore for light meals or a scoop or three of gelato, and children can run wild at the huge adventure playground.

An elegant way to get here from the CBD would be on the historic tramway, which we’ll talk about next.

5. Bendigo Tramways

The city has had a tram system since 1890 and this is still open to visitors as a tourist attraction.

In their time the Bendigo Tramways have been powered by battery, then steam and then electricity since 1903. In the post-war years the network proved too expensive to run as a commuter service, and it finally closed down in 1972, to be reborn as a heritage line.

You can catch a tram through the city centre between North Bendigo and the Central Deborah Gold Mine.

Riding a heritage tram you can take a hop-on, hop-off tour and see almost all of the Bendigo’s main attractions.

The Dja Dja Wurrung Tram sets off from the Central Deborah Gold Mine at 10:00 every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and relates the 40,000-year story and traditions of Bendigo’s first people.

There’s also a monthly “Blues Tram” with live performances and “Yarn Bomb Tram” bedecked with crocheted seat covers, cushions, blanket and bunting.

Finally, the old tram depot off Hargreaves Street is open to the public for self-guided tours.

6. Rosalind Park

Bordering Bendigo’s CBD is more than 60 hectares of lawns and mature trees, all scattered with amenities and historic monuments.

The space that is now Rosalind Park is in a valley along Bendigo Creek and because of its permanent freshwater pools would have been vital to the area’s Dja Dja Wrung people way before the arrival of Europeans.

In the early 1850s the Government Camp was based right here and what is now a peaceful idyll was then a mass of shallow shafts, puddling mills and mullock heaps.

By 1855 there were proposals to turn this area into a park, and the surviving layout was decided upon by 1870. Walking the park’s stately avenues you’ll see lots of features that have been here since the late-19th century like fernery (1879), man-made cascades from the 1880s, a cast iron conservatory (1897) and theatrical Neoclassical statuary.

At the west end is the converted Poppet Head lookout tower, which once stood over the nearby Garden Gully United mine and was moved to this spot in 1931.

7. Bendigo Pottery

Australia’s oldest working pottery was established in Bendigo in 1858 and after a few ups and downs in the intervening years has experienced a revival since the 1970s.

In that time Bendigo Pottery has become a byword for quality and innovation.

At this historic site dominated by wood-fired kilns you can find out about the pottery’s past and learn all you need to know about production and the traditional skills still employed by Bendigo’s skilled potters.

You can watch live demonstrations and try your hand at a pottery wheel.

The sales gallery has a large selection of contemporary and traditional pottery, while there’s also an antiques and collectibles centre and a studios with resident artists producing jewellery, sculpture, painting, textiles and more.

8. Bendigo Botanic Gardens

The city’s first public garden was founded as long ago as 1857. The site, a few minutes northeast of the CBD, appears on maps from 1854, just three years after gold was discovered in Bendigo.

The lake at the centre of the park is a remnant of Bendigo Creek, and is wreathed in indigenous wetland species.

Elsewhere the park is divided into lots of lovely sub-gardens, like the Northern Victorian Garden, the Cottage Garden of the Victorian Goldfields, the Indigenous Garden, Habitat Garden and the National Canna and Lavender Collections.

There’s also an Arch of Triumph (1925), a picnic pavilion (1910), an aviary, and an award-winning playspace inspired by Alice in Wonderland.

9. Sacred Heart Cathedral

Bendigo’s gold explains how a relatively small provincial city like this could have a church of such incredible dimensions.

This stupendous Gothic Revival building was begun in 1897 and would be completed 70 years later, after work was interrupted by the two world wars.

Most of the funding was provided by the estate of German-born Henry Backaus (1811-1882), Bendigo’s first Catholic priest.

He amassed serious wealth in Bendigo’s early boom years and left it all for the construction of a cathedral.

Sacred Heart is one of the largest in the country, and the 87-metre spire is the second-tallest behind St Patrick’s in Melbourne.

Go in to appreciate the scale of the nave, which has a wooden ceiling rising to 24 metres.

Check out the carved stonework, the stained glass on the west window, the organ (1905), the blackwood pews and the fine timber panelling.

10. Discovery Science and Technology Centre

This science museum in Bendigo is all about interactivity and learning through play.

So, almost without realising, kids can get acquainted with scientific ideas at more than 100 whimsical exhibits.

There’s an echo tube, almost as long as the centre itself, or an air cannon that can spell out a message, or a device that shoots ping-pong balls amazing distances using only the air around them.

Kids will also be wowed by the planetarium where they can learn about the stars, planets and solar system while sitting back on a beanbag.

But if there’s a headline attraction it’s the tallest vertical slide in the Southern Hemisphere, with a sheer drop of seven metres.

11. Great Stupa of Universal Compassion

With the same size and design as Tibet’s Great Stupa of Gyantse, Bendigo’s Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is the largest stupa in the Western World.

This startling monument is designed to last for a millennium, and rises 48 metres over Bendigo’s bushland, with a width of 50 metres at its base.

Among the many venerated objects within is the Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, the largest Buddha to be fashioned from gemstone-quality jade in the world.

The massive boulder from which it was carved was brought to light in Canada in 2000. You can see this and many more artefacts on a tour, setting off from the stupa’s visitor centre and shedding light on Asian culture, Buddhism and art.

There’s artisan coffee at the StupaView Café and a shop selling handmade gifts.

12. The Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum

The solemn Returned Soldiers’ Memorial Hall was erected in the Second Empire style in 1921 as a memorial to those who served in the First World War.

After a two-year redevelopment and extension, the museum inside reopened in 2018 and holds a sizeable collection of military artefacts and memorabilia charting every conflict from the Boer War to Iraq.

This is large enough that it needs to rotate the temporary exhibitions and includes diaries, photographs, documents, books, medals, weapons, uniforms, identity tags, side packs, medical packs and poignant pieces of “trench art” handmade on the battlefield.

13. Alexandra Fountain

The intersection of View Street and Pall Mall is Charing Cross, pretty much at the very centre of Bendigo.

Standing here is a fountain built in 1880 and named for the then Princess of Wales, Alexandra of Denmark.

This monument, testifying to the affluence created by the goldfields, was the work of W.C. Vahland, an architect who designed much of Bendigo’s public architecture from that time.

Impeccably maintained, it’s the second-largest municipal fountain in Victoria, standing 8.5 metres tall and set in a circular pool 15 metres in diameter.

It’s composed of a mix of Harcourt granite, iron and painted stone, and has a group of four allegorical women above spouted mer-horses and dolphins.

14. Bendigo Easter Festival

If you want to see Bendigo’s imperial dragon, Sun Loong in action, then you need to be in town for the Bendigo Easter Festival, which has been celebrated since 1871. The first festival took place to raise funds for a hospital and soon became an institution.

Sun Loong shows up for the signature event, the Easter Procession, held on Easter Sunday and has more than 100 float and over 1,000 participants each year.

Among the other long-running traditions are a carnival in the CBD, the Torchlight Procession and the Awakening of the Dragon ceremony to stir old Sun Loong from his year-long slumber.

In Yi Yuan Gardens meanwhile you can catch the Chinese Spring Festival, with martial arts, lion dancing and traditional Chinese drum, ribbon and fan dances.

15. Bendigo Wine Region

Grape vines were planted in the bushland around Bendigo even when the gold rush was in full swing.

The climate is dry and temperate, similar to what you get in the south of France, with warm summers and mild-to-cool winters when much of the rainfall happens.

Red grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz do especially well around Bendigo, and the main white is Chardonnay.

A typical bottle of Bendigo Cabernet Sauvignon will have trademark blackberry and blackcurrant flavours, with a hint of eucalypt-peppermint.

There are more than 60 wineries and cellar doors, draped over the hills and valleys around Bendigo and into the Heathcote Region to the east.

Killiecrankie, Sandhurst Ridge, Sutton Grange, Chateau Dore, Mandurang Valley are a few names to get you started.

15 Best Things to Do in Bendigo (Australia):

• Central Deborah Gold Mine
• Bendigo Art Gallery
• Bendigo Chinese Gardens Reserve and Golden Dragon Museum
• Lake Weeroona
• Bendigo Tramways
• Rosalind Park
• Bendigo Pottery
• Bendigo Botanic Gardens
• Sacred Heart Cathedral
• Discovery Science and Technology Centre
• Great Stupa of Universal Compassion
• The Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum
• Alexandra Fountain
• Bendigo Easter Festival
• Bendigo Wine Region

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BENDIGO IN A DAY OR A WEEK!

Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, there are so many things to do in Bendigo we are sure you will find it makes a perfect day trip or short getaway from the Victorian capital. From its grand historic buildings that sprouted up during the gold boom to its famous potteries and growing food scene, there is a lot to love about this regional city. Today local Kate Comer shares some of her favourite places to visit in Bendigo when you visit.

Where is Bendigo?

When is the best time to visit, how long do you need to visit bendigo, the bendigo hoho tram, bendigo art gallery, central deborah gold mine, golden dragon museum, bendigo pottery, the great stupa, where to eat in bendigo, where to stay in bendigo.

This page may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy  for more information.

Planning a visit to Bendigo?

If you are planning your first trip to this gorgeous town in Victoria this page is all about finding fun things to do in Bendigo

The regional city of Bendigo is in Central Victoria and is only a 150km drive north of Melbourne. Having a car is the best way to explore the city, but the train is an excellent option for a day trip.

Autumn or Spring are perfect times to visit Bendigo, the weather is a great temperature, and the parks come alive. There is also a great range of events held at this time of year. I tend to find over the Christmas/New Year period, many of the cafes and restaurants that Bendigo is famous for close their doors to enjoy the break.

A day trip to Bendigo is perfect for exploring the Bendigo CBD, but a stay of at least three nights is needed as there is so much to do! The history of Bendigo is rich, and the beautiful buildings reflect the money that was made during the gold rush of the 1800s.

The best things to see and do in Bendigo

There is a great deal of variety on offer in this central Victorian city. From discovering its history to exploring all the great dining choices, pick a few of your favourites from the list below and start planning a getaway soon.

The best way to get a feel for the city and learn about the history is to jump on one of the Bendigo Trams. They travel from the Central Deborah Gold Mine past the Sacred Heart Cathedral, through the centre of Bendigo down the famous Pall Mall, past Lake Weeroona ending at the historic Joss House Temple.

The tram is a hop on hop off service, and the ticket is valid for the entire day.

Where : 1 Tramways Ave, Bendigo When : 10am-4.30pm

On View Street, in the centre of Bendigo beside the gorgeous Rosalind Park, you will find the Bendigo Art Gallery. Whatever you do, don’t miss a visit to this fantastic gallery. They have a great range of exhibitions of high-quality art and textiles.

Once you have finished exploring the art gallery, check out the poppet head that overlooks Bendigo. The view over Rosalind Park on one of the many sunny days in Bendigo is worth climbing the stairs.

Where : 42 View St, Bendigo  When : 10am-5pm

The Central Deborah Gold Mine is another must-see destination in Bendigo. Once a working gold mine, there is a tremendous amount of information on the gold rush days and if you are keen, you can head underground to experience what the miners went through during those days.

Over 700,000kg of was gold found on the Bendigo goldfields between 1851and 1954 making it the 7th largest gold producer in the world.

If going underground is not your thing, the surface of the mine still has a fantastic display of gold rush memorabilia.

Where : 76 Violet St, Bendigo When : 9:30pm-4:30pm

Chinese history is a huge part of Bendigo, and a visit to the Golden Dragon Museum should also be on your list of things to do in Bendigo. A great range of Chinese artifacts from the Gold Rush period and a ticket also includes entrance to the Chinese gardens and the Kuan Yin Temple.

Before you book your trip to Bendigo, I highly recommend searching to see if tickets to the High Tea at Fortuna Villa are available. A wonderful way to spend a few hours sipping champagne, listening to the harp and going on a tour of this splendid heritage-listed building.

The following two activities require a car and are well worth the short drive.

Where : 1/11 Bridge St, Bendigo  When : 9:30pm-5pm

Bendigo Pottery is located north of Bendigo in the suburb of Epsom and is Australia’s oldest working pottery. The interactive museum gives excellent insight into the history of ceramics, and you can also purchase a piece of pottery to take home.

Don’t miss the antique and collectable store next door; we love finding unique items. On the drive back into Bendigo, the Bendigo Botanical Gardens is worth visiting on a sunny day.

Where : 146 Midland Hwy, Epsom When : 9am-5pm

A 20-minute drive from Bendigo is The Great Stupa , and please don’t miss out on a visit! The largest Stupa in the Western World, this is a fantastic place to wander and so peaceful. The garden is beautiful surrounding the Stupa, and it is only a gold coin donation to visit. The café serves delicious, wholesome food.

Where : 25 Sandhurst Town Rd, Myers Flat  When : 9am-5pm weekdays, 10:30am-5pm weekends

The range of Bendigo cafes and restaurants is huge, and you will need many visits to Bendigo to eat at them all. I am a huge coffee lover, and here are my top three choices for the best takeaway coffee spots. Hustle Coffee on McCrae Street, Get Naked Espresso Bar on Mitchell Street and Peachy on View Street.

For brunch and a coffee, I suggest Old Green Bean on Lyttleton Terrace, Adam and Eve on Williamson Street and Percy and Percy on Hargreaves Street.

For lunch and dinner, you are spoilt for choice. Everyone must dine at Masons of Bendigo and The Woodhouse restaurant at least once on a stay in Bendigo.

Incredible food that is sourced locally from Central Victoria. For drinks, Nimbus Rooftop and Ms Batterhams do spectacular cocktails, not to be missed!

Where you stay in Bendigo really depends on if you have a car. If you don’t have a car, I would recommend staying in the Bendigo CBD or near Lake Weeroona.

• The Shamrock Hotel in Bendigo CBD has an amazing amount of history and location cannot be beat.
• For amazing value and hospitality, check out the Julia-Anna Bendigo near Lake Weeroona has motel rooms and apartments
• There are also two Quest properties that have larger apartments for groups
• Mercure Schaller is a modern hotel a short walk from town. The property features work by Australian contemporary artist, Mark Schaller
• The Byronsvale Vineyard Accommodation is a beautiful choice with vineyard and bush views a short drive from Bendigo CBD.

Bendigo is a gorgeous place to visit, and there is always something going on, and there is a great selection of things to do for both families and couples.

About the Author: Kate Comer is a mum of 2 and loves to travel with her family to Bali. She lives in the regional Victorian city of Bendigo and loves exploring Australia, finding child-friendly spots, plus the best coffee in town. Follow her on Instagram for the latest Bendigo happenings or join her FB group Travel Around Bendigo if you have any questions about visiting the area.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

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The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Bendigo

Bendigo is the fourth largest city in Victoria (ranked after Melbourne , Geelong , and Ballarat ). It is well-known for its glorious gold mining history, impressive Victorian architecture, and strong Chinese heritage.

Walking around Bendigo city, you will find many grand Victorian-era buildings and statues , all built from the wealth of Bendigo’s gold rush. There are also many stunning Chinese temples and gardens around Bendigo, which are the legacy of those Chinese miners during the gold rush era.

There is a lot to see in Bendigo, but you can certainly visit Bendigo’s major attractions on a day trip . To help plan your trip, I have put together this 1-day itinerary for visiting Bendigo, based on my recent visit.

Information on how to get to Bendigo & where to stay in Bendigo is also provided for your convenience. Hope you can find this article useful.

One-Day Itinerary in Bendigo

Bendigo vintage talking tram.

Bendigo’s Vintage Talking Tram is among the most iconic attractions in Bendigo. It is also the best and most scenic way to learn the culture and history of Bendigo .

Sitting in a restored tram from the early 1900s, you will be passing by a plethora of historic buildings along High Street and Pall Mall, glancing over the beautiful Lake Weeroona, and stopping by the peaceful Joss House Temple.

The Vintage Talking Tram is operated between Central Deborah Gold Mine and Bendigo Joss House Temple . It also stops at Charing Cross, Lake Weeroona, and Tysons Reef. The ride takes about 20-25 minutes one-way & passengers can get on and off the tram at any stop.

When I visited Bendigo (May 2022), the first Vintage Talking Tram did not depart Central Debrah Gold Mine until 10 am, although the ticket office at the gold mine opens from 9.30 am already.

With that being said, the ticket to this Vintage Talking Tram also included access to the above-ground gold mine museum at Central Deborah Gold Mine. So I used the 30-minute waiting time walking through the miner’s change rooms, blacksmith shop, first aid room, and the gold museum instead. It was an interesting experience on its own.

Central Deborah Gold Mine (optional)

Central Deborah Gold Mine is a real gold mine that operated between 1939 and 1954. Nowadays, visitors can join one of its underground gold mine tours to peek through the life in the mine & learn the process of gold mining.

As mentioned above, the Vintage Talking Tram departs from/arrives at Central Deborah Gold Mine, so you may wish to join the tour either before or just after your tram ride. However, the tour does take a significant amount of time, so you may need to skip certain attractions from this itinerary if the underground tour is what you prefer to partake in.

Bendigo Joss House Temple

From Central Deborah Gold Mine, the Vintage Talking Tram will take you across the buzzing Bendigo CBD to the heritage-listed Chinese temple, Bendigo Joss House Temple.

Bendigo Joss House Temple is a small temple worshipping Kwan Gong, the god of war and prosperity. First opened its door to the public in 1871, Joss House Temple is one of the few remaining temples of its kind in Australia. It is a great place to broaden your understanding of Chinese culture and beliefs .

In saying that, when visiting Bendigo Joss House Temple via the Vintage Talking Tram, the tram conductor should be able to inform you if the temple is open as well.

Gold Dragon Museum

It doesn’t matter if you have much understanding of Chinese culture, a visit to the Gold Dragon Museum will still impress you with its vast collection of antiques and artefacts . These displays will take you back to the gold rush era to experience Bendigo’s immense prosperity back in the day.

Entry to Gold Dragon Museum requires a ticket, which is AUD 12 per adult (July 2022). This ticket will also provide you access to the adjacent Chinese garden and Kuan Yin Temple, which are also worth checking out.

If you only have time to visit either Bendigo Joss House Temple or the Gold Dragon Museum, I would suggest visiting Gold Dragon Museum for sure. Joss House Temple is fabulous, but it is very small and functions more as a place of worship. In comparison, Gold Dragon Museum provides a more comprehensive experience with its museum, classic Chinese garden, and Kuan Yin Temple.

Rosalind Park

After visiting Gold Dragon Museum, you may wish to also check out the beautiful Rosalind Park nearby.

Rosalind Park is a stunning Victorian-style garden along Bendigo Creek , between Park Road and View Street.

Within Rosalind Park, you can find a range of adorable plants and trees, many of which are also listed on the heritage register. There is also a beautiful 3-tiered water fountain near Poppet Head Lookout & worth checking out.

Poppet Head Lookout

Poppet Head Lookout is situated on top of Camp Hill , right next to the beautiful Rosalind Park. Poppet Head Lookout got its name because it was originally used as a Poppet Head at the Golden Gully United Mine before being re-erected at its current location in 1931 as a lookout platform.

At Poppet Head Lookout, there are a few flights of stairs between the base and the top lookout platform. Unfortunately, no lifts or wheelchair access is available to the lookout platform.

Once arrived at the top lookout platform, you will be greeted with an unparalleled panoramic view of Rosalind Park, Bendigo city, and the surrounding suburbs. It is the best place to admire this remarkable city and to re-orientate yourself.

Access to Poppet Head Lookout is free . It opens early in the morning (but after sunrise) & closes just after sunset. If time allows, you may wish to also come back to Poppet Head Lookout for a spectacular sunset view at a later time & it will not disappoint.

Bendigo Art Gallery

Bendigo Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest regional art galleries in Australia. It houses a good collection of European, British, and Australian paintings from the 1800s onwards .

In addition to its permeant collections, Bendigo Art Gallery also houses a range of popular temporary art exhibitions.

Bendigo City Centre

After visiting Bendigo Art Gallery, make sure you take a stroll from Charing Cross to explore Bendigo’s grand Victorian-era architecture.

From Charing Cross, I suggest taking a walk towards Bull Street along Pall Mall, then turn right onto Bull Street to check out Hargreaves Street and Chancery Lane. Along this walk, you will be walking past a range of historic landmarks, such as Alexandra Fountain, Soldiers Memorial, the old Post Office building, Bendigo Magistrates’ Court, and Bendigo Town Hall.

Among these historic buildings, I highly suggest checking out the Old Post Office building . Although it is currently used as Bendigo Visitor Centre , this marvellous Victorian building is still radiating an old-world charm. There are also small museums/exhibitions within the Old Post Office building, showcasing Bendigo’s glorious past and a good collection of local arts.

Make sure you also check out the buzzing Chancery Lane , which is tucked between Pall Mall and Hargreaves Street. In Chancery Lane, you can find a range of quirky cafes, unique stores, and interesting mural arts. It is a great place to take a break after a busy morning.

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Sacred Heart Cathedral is a grand sandstone cathedral, built in 1897 . With its main spire at 87 metres tall , Sacred Heart Cathedral is the third tallest cathedral in Australia and the largest Gothic cathedral in the Southern Hemisphere .

This grand cathedral is the most prominent building you will notice from Poppet Head Lookout & you will also be seeing this picturesque cathedral from many street corners around Bendigo.

Sacred Heart Cathedral is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday when no mass or other church events are happening (as of May 2022). Make sure you take a walk to admire this majestic cathedral from within if you happen to be there during its visiting hours.

Access to Sacred Heart Cathedral is free , but donations are welcomed.

When I visited, there was also a friendly gentleman providing helpful information about Sacred Heart Cathedral to all its visitors.

Great Stupa of Universal Compassion

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is a replica of the 600-year-old Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet . With 50-metre in height and width, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is the largest stupa outside of Asia .

In addition to its sheer size, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is also famous for its 2.5-metre high Jade Buddha statue. It is the largest gemstone Buddha statue in the world.

Around the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, you can also find a large garden with a range of statues and prayer wheels around. It was really calming to take a walk around this garden and enjoy some solitude.

Cafe and gift shop are also available at the entrance, so you can grab a bite and some unique gifts.

Entry to the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is free , but donations are welcomed.

Access to the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is by driving or taxi only. There is no public transport available to the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion.

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is about a 20-minute drive from Bendigo . There is also a section of rough dirt road before arriving at the stupa, but it will be well worth the drive!

How to Get to Bendigo

Visiting bendigo by car.

Visiting Bendigo by car is the easiest and most convenient way of visiting Bendigo.

Bendigo is only a less than 2-hour drive from Melbourne ; a 1.5-hour drive from Ballarat ; a 2.5-hour drive from Geelong and Halls Gap ; a 7-hour drive from Adelaide .

Visiting Bendigo by Public Transport

Direct train service is available between Melbourne and Bendigo , which makes it really easy to visit Bendigo from Melbourne by public transport. A visit to Bendigo from Melbourne CBD only takes less than 2 hours by train.

Once you have arrived at Bendigo Station, most of the attractions on this itinerary are only a short bus ride away. Since Bendigo is a relatively small city, you can even walk to many of these attractions from Bendigo Station. The only place you will need to catch a taxi or use a ride-share service to visit is the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion.

If you are visiting Bendigo via public transport from other Victorian cities, it can be tricky. There is no direct train service between Geelong/Ballarat and Bendigo . Hence, visiting Bendigo by train will take almost 3 hours from Geelong and 2.5 hours from Ballarat.

Where to Stay in Bendigo

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Best Things to See and Do in Bendigo Victoria

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated May 23, 2024 | Discover Australia Now , Victoria | 8 comments

Only 90 minutes or so up the Calder Freeway from Melbourne is the lovely regional city of Bendigo. With its grand and historic buildings that were built during the gold boom, to its famous pottery and its growing food and wine scene, there is a lot to discover on a visit to this regional city. If you are considering a visit to Bendigo for a couple of days or longer, you won’t be disappointed as there are some great things to see and do in Bendigo.

In this post I am going to share with you the best things to do in Bendigo in a day or longer. So whether you are travelling to Bendigo solo, with friends, in a couple or visiting Bendigo with kids either for a weekend getaway, while touring around Victoria or doing your ‘ big lap of Australia’ , definitely include a visit to Bendigo in your plans.

Firstly, I want to acknowledge that the City of Greater Bendigo is located on the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Warring and the Taungurung Peoples of the Kulin Nation, the traditional custodians of this land.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to See and Do in Bendigo

If you are wondering why visit Bendigo, well let me tell you why. Firstly, Bendigo was built on the proceeds of gold found during the gold rush in Victoria of the 1850s. So much gold was found that this area of Victoria is known to have produced the most gold in the world. So you will learn lots about gold. And see fabulous old buildings built from the profits of gold. Plus the ground is so productive the area is fast becoming known as one of the best food and wine areas in Australia. So this is just a sample of why you should add Bendigo Victoria to your list of regional towns to visit while touring around Victoria.

Ride the Hop-on Hop-off Tram

Bendigo Hop On Hop Off Tram Waiting at the Central Deborah Gold Mine

The first thing to do when you arrive in Bendigo is to buy a ticket to ride the Bendigo Hop-on Hop-off Tram known as the Vintage Talking Tram . Trams have a number of stops. Travel between the Central Deborah Gold Mine, past the Sacred Heart Cathedral, through the centre of town travelling along Pall Mall, past Lake Weeroona and end at the historic Joss House Temple. There are 6 stops in all along the route. You can hop-on and hop-off at any stop you like as your ticket is valid for the whole day. Riding the tram is great fun. The tram drivers are very knowledgeable and show you the major sights and tell you about them and their history.

I started my tram trip at the Central Deborah Gold Mine mainly because there is plenty of parking here. For my first trip I stayed on the tram and did the return trip taking 45 minutes. Y ou can purchase your ticket on the tram or at the Central Deborah Gold Mine reception area . 

Go Down the Mine at the Central Deborah Gold Mine

If you start your day in Bendigo at the tram terminal at the Central Deborah Gold Mine, you might want to have a tour of this first. The Central Deborah Gold Mine is the second must-see and do destination in Bendigo. If you want to learn about the gold rush days in Bendigo, you will discover everything at this once working gold mine. You can even go on an underground tour in the mine, to depths of 228 metres below the surface. You will discover all about the working conditions of the miners of years gone by as well as fascinating stories. If going underground isn’t your thing, there is a great display of gold rush memorabilia on the surface. You can purchase your ticket at the mine .

Bendigo Art Gallery

Leave your car at the gold mine and take the tram into the city. One stop away will see you at View Street, in the centre of the city. Along View Street is the Bendigo Art Gallery which has some great exhibitions. Many people visit Bendigo for the great exhibitions it often has on. The day I was there, the Elvis Presley Exhibition was on. I was lucky to get a ticket to this exhibition and I’m glad I did. There was so much Elvis memorabilia in the exhibition and it took a few hours to see it all. From Elvis’ clothes he wore in concert, to his beloved MGA car and even the keys to the front door of Graceland. Here’s some pics.

Elvis’ Jumpsuits and his Red MG were my favourite exhibits at the Elvis Exhition at the Bendigo Art Centre

Walk around Rosalind Park

If art isn’t your thing, take a walk around Rosalind Park. It is right near the Art Gallery. There is an old gold poppet head to climb which offers great views over Bendigo. At the bottom of the hill you will find some statues, one of Queen Victoria and the other of George Lansell. George Lansell arrived in Bendigo in 1853. After opening a number of shops he had a great interest in mining. He worked tirelessly to ensure mining industry standards were met to be able to provide employment.

Not too far from the statue is the imposing Town Hall building, which is where you will find the award winning Bendigo Visitor Centre . This building was the Bendigo Post Office once and has been lovingly restored to keep its character and glory. The Botanical Gardens are just next door for you to walk around or sit and relax. Across the road is the iconic Shamrock Hotel . The Shamrock Hotel was built in the gold rush days and reflects this in its distinction, history, romance and grandeur – just like many other buildings in Bendigo. You will see why when you visit possibly to stay overnight in or to enjoy a meal.

Golden Dragon Museum

During the gold rush in the 1850s, people came from around the world seeking their fortune. And this included many Chinese people and this Chinese history is a massive part of Bendigo. So massive in fact there is the Golden Dragon Museum housing a great range of Chinese artefacts from the gold rush period. It is not far from the Bendigo Town Hall so you can easily walk to it.

The Golden Dragon Museum is also home to two dragons. Loong is the world’s oldest Imperial Dragon, and is the most celebrated dragon in Australia. Loong first appeared in Bendigo in 1892 and was regularly paraded through Bendigo until he was retired in 1970. As well as Loong, Dai Gum Loong also calls Bendigo home. He is the world’s longest Imperial Dragon and thousands come to see him dance through Bendigo’s central business district during Bendigo’s Easter Festival. If you can’t see him at Easter, you can see him and Loong at the museum. You will find the museum at 1-11 Bridge Street Bendigo. It is open Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am to 5.00pm with entry tickets available at the door.

Walk Around the CBD and Shopping Precinct

Bendigo was one of the central points of the gold rush back in the 1850s and a stroll around the CBD will showcase many heritage buildings. Walk along Pall Mall and discover many of the lattice-covered awning shop fronts. They provide a lot of character to Bendigo. A couple of streets back on the other side from Rosalind Park is Bendigo’s shopping mall. Once a street, it was changed to a mall in the 1980s. Lots of great shops, from local boutiques to Australian chain shops – plenty of shopping here. And cafes too, to get your fix of caffeine, or a local pastry to keep the energy up.

Bendigo Pottery

Kiln at Bendigo Pottery

Bendigo Pottery is 6km north of Bendigo so you will need to drive to get there. It is Australia’s oldest and still working pottery with around 45 shops attached to it. These shops are other creators selling their wears along with antique sellers where you could find a bargain. You can purchase a ticket to go on a tour of the pottery or perhaps you would like to take a pottery class. Or perhaps like me, just walk around and admire the extensive array of pottery items for sale and then finish off with a coffee in the coffee shop. It is free to walk around however, you will need to buy a ticket if going on the pottery tour.

Eating in Bendigo

Bendigo is fast becoming a foodie’s paradise and is in fact Australia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The range of Bendigo restaurants and cafes is huge, with a lot of the food being sourced locally from around Central Victoria. There are a number of great places to eat along View Street, McCrae Street and Mitchell Street, and close to the Shopping Mall along Hargreaves Street. Perhaps have a meal at the iconic Shamrock Hotel on Pall Mall. Or enjoy a high tea at Fortuna Villa, once the home of George Lansell. There are also plenty of fast food joints and fabulous bakeries. If you truly love your food and wine why not taste your way around the Bendigo region on the Bendigo Gastronomy Trail . Bon Appetite!

Bendigo Wine Region

The Bendigo wine region is one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, with vines dating back as far as 1855. Today, there are more than 30 cellar doors and wineries waiting to be discovered. There is also the nearby Heathcote wine region which is growing in reputation. You can easily spend a day, or two, driving around to the different wineries and cellar doors sampling the wines. If you don’t want to drive yourself, consider going on a wine tour such as with companies like Bendigo Presitge tours . Even though Bendigo and Heathcote are known for their quality wines, if you are a beer lover, you will enjoy the growing beer culture. There are a number of unique craft breweries in the area such as Palling Bros Brewery and Cornella Brewery . Bottoms up!

Other Things to See and Do in Bendigo

Depending on how long you have to spend in Bendigo, other things to see and do include:

• Visit Lake Weeroona and let the kids play at the Lake Weeroona Playspace
• Enjoy a walk around the Bendigo Botanic Gardens
• get interactive with science displays at the Discovery Science & Technology Centre
• Visit the heritage listed Joss House Temple, a Chinese place of prayer since 1871.

1 Day Bendigo Itinerary

Here’s a suggestion to spend 1 day in Bendigo

Morning – tour the Central Deborah Goldmine Late morning – ride the talking tram, complete route Lunch – jump off the tram and wander down Pall Mall and dine in one of Bendigo’s cafes or restaurants Afternoon – walk off lunch along Pall Mall and walk around Rosalind Park and visit the Bendigo Art Gallery Dinner – head into town and enjoy a meal in a Bendigo restaurant Evening – enjoy a drink in one of the pubs or bars or catch a move at the Star Cinema.

2 Day Bendigo Itinerary

Follow 1 day Bendigo itinerary and on day 2:

Morning – spend your morning at Bendigo Pottery Afternoon – tour around some of Bendigo’s or Heathcote’s Wineries Dinner – in one of Bendigo’s restaurants.

Plan Your Visit to Bendigo

Now you know what to see and do in Bendigo, it is time to plan your visit.

Where is Bendigo and How to Get there?

Bendigo is only 150km north of Melbourne and takes around 90 minutes or so to reach by car or a bit longer if you catch the train. If driving from Melbourne you will drive along the Calder Freeway. If you need to rent a car check out the DiscoverCars website providing details of different cars to rent along with availability and cost. The other option to reach Bendigo is to travel by train. Check out the V/Line website for tickets and timetables. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Bendigo?

Anytime is a good time to visit Bendigo. However, Winter can be very cold and Summer very hot. Spring and Autumn are perfect as the temperatures are milder. But it is up to you when you visit. Bendigo isn’t going anywhere.

How long should you Visit Bendigo for?

Definitely visit Bendigo for 1-2 days which will give you enough time to see the major things Bendigo is known for. There is still plenty to do if you stay longer, but you will need a car as you will be travelling to the local towns to really appreciate what the Bendigo area has to offer. 

Where to Stay in Bendigo?

Bendigo has a variety of accommodation available, with plenty of places in the CBD and surrounds. So whether you are a solo traveller, with friends or in a couple or travelling with family to Bendigo with kids, there is a place to stay in Bendigo for you. The closer you are to the centre of town, the easier it is to walk to the major sights.

• The Shamrock Hotel in Bendigo CBD is a majestic structure of some 150 plus years old and worth a stay.
• If after a bed in a hostel check out Bendigo Backpackers .
• The Best Western Cathedral Hotel is where I stayed. It is only a 10 minute walk from the CBD and only 5 minutes from fast food restaurants. It is a great hotel and offered everything I needed for a pleasant stay.
• If towing a van or bring your tent, check out  Big 4 Park Lane Holiday Park .
• For other accommodation options check out Booking.com – it’s my go to site where I book all my accommodation.

Are You Ready to Visit Bendigo?

I hope you are ready to visit Bendigo for the best things to see and do in Bendigo for a day or two or more! If you have any questions about your visit or have visited already, i would love to hear in the comments following.

Other Things to See and Do around Bendigo

Drive the Goldfields Ways – Bendigo to Ballarat

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My Travel Resources

* For short accommodation stays I book a hotel room via Booking.com. For free accommodation I house sit through Trusted Housesitters . * For camping & caravanning gear I like RV Camping & Caravanning, Amazon and BCF. * If I need to rent a car I check out options at DiscoverCars . * For clothing I am not loyal to any brand, but I do have a NorthFace jacket. * When I need travel insurance I get a policy through World Nomads .

Golden Dragon Museum sounds quite interesting. I would love to know more about Chinese history.

It is very interesting the Chinese History in Bendigo. Basically lots of Chinese people arrived to make their fortune panning for gold and brought their culture with them. Very interesting.

I would absolutely want to visit the pottery kiln and take a class. I bet the artisans’ pots are lovely.

Yes, the classes look great. When I was there they only had a kids class for that day. I will need to book in advance next time to get my days and class to coordinate! lol. The posts were amazing!

Bendigo is yet another amazing place to see when we visit Australia! PS I love Museums.

If you get the chance to visit some of the big towns in Victoria you will definitely be amazed at their history, architecture and their local quisines and drink.

I loved my trip to Australia a few years ago, but I didn’t get a chance to visit so many places I wanted to go. Bendigo looks like another great place to add to my list for when I’m back in Australia!

Bendigo was great to visit. It is an easy day trip from Melbourne. So if you get the chance on your next visit I hope you can visit this town built from the gold rush days.

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G’Day! Sharyn here, an Aussie discovering Australia. Let me show you around so you can discover Australia too.  Read my story here.

• Top 10 Things To See...

Top 10 Things To See And Do In Bendigo, Australia

One of the most popular places to visit in Victoria , is history-filled Bendigo, north west of Melbourne. We list the top 10 things to do and see in this beautiful, sun-filled city.

Central deborah gold mine, bendigo art gallery.

Established in 1887, Bendigo Art Gallery is one of the oldest and most popular regional galleries in Australia. The art gallery holds an extensive collection with a number of exhibitions and events, the most recent dedicated to Marilyn Monroe . The main gallery is free to enter and offers a variety of displays and artists.

Art & Architecture at Sacred Heart Cathedral

Take in Chinese Culture at Golden Dragon Museum

Bridge, Museum

Go for a bike ride with Bendigo Bike hires

If you like to enjoy nature and eco-friendly transport, Bendigo bike hire has you covered; providing helmets, locks, baskets, maps and water. For a family outing, you can discover central Bendigo or follow the bike trail around Lake Weeroona. To get more history out of Bendigo you can also follow the nearby Bendigo Creek Trail, which allows you to see some great tourist spots.

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Bendigo Botanic Gardens

Bendigo tramways, wine tasting at bendigo winery tours.

Bendigo Winery Tours takes you behind the wine making process and will introduce you to local wine growers and their produce. There are meat and cheese platters to go with the wine when you get hungry,

Fortuna Villa High Tea and Tour

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Discovery Science and Technology Centre

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Bendigo is a vibrant contemporary regional centre, boasting beautiful streets created from one of the world’s greatest gold rushes. Every visit will reveal new surprises and experiences.

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About Bendigo

Castlemaine, Maldon & Surrounds

Castlemaine boasts a remarkable community of artists, writers, actors and designers, who offer a host of galleries, theatres, festivals, bookshops and boutiques. It’s a theme that runs through nearby Maldon, Newstead and Harcourt.

The Mill Castlemaine

Victorian Goldfields Railway

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Maryborough & Surrounds

Rich in history and opportunity... today’s visitors come to Maryborough and the surrounding villages for many reasons. Many come to wander through the lovely box-ironbark forests with their wildflowers, birds and superb display of Wattle in the spring. Others come to research family history and discover a connection to the Victorian gold rush, or to visit nearby wineries or explore markets, galleries and museums.

Maryborough Railway Station

Talbot Farmers Market

Coiltek Gold Centre

Loddon Valley

Take a deep breath… and travel along the meandering roads of the Loddon Valley. They start at untouched historic villages, weave their way up to spectacular views on granite strewn hilltops, through ancient forests, and then alongside wide flowing rivers and vast wetlands.

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Wedderburn Coach House Gallery and Museum

Bendigo Art Gallery

One of Australia's oldest and largest regional galleries presenting innovative exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of public programs and events. Our collection is extensive, with an emphasis on 19th century European art and Australian art from the 1800's, alongside a strong collection of contemporary Australian art.

Visiting the Gallery

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Bendigo Venues and Events nurtures, develops, presents and celebrates performing arts and culture for Bendigo and central Victorian communities.

Welcome to Bendigo Venues and Events

Throughout the year, find fabulous festivals and events offering the perfect chance to meet the friendly residents, taste the great local produce and see why Heathcote is one of the best, and most beautiful, places in the world.

School Holidays Activities In Bendigo

School holidays activities in bendigo this spring... .

Looking for ways to entertain your family over the spring school holidays? The Bendigo region is full of family-friendly attractions, plenty of free and low-cost activities and uniquely Bendigo experiences. Join us as we say goodbye to winter and hello to spring, and head outdoors to explore in the sunshine.

Spring time is tulip time in Bendigo and the most iconic must-visit when exploring Bendigo in September. Discover over 43,000 tulips in a rainbow of colours and varieties throughout the city centre, from Alexandra Fountain, through Rosalind Park, and into the Conservatory Gardens. It's picture perfect for family photos, a picnic or ice cream stop, or simply wandering through the colourful gardens.

Bloom After Dark

Looking for family-friendly activities to do at night? Why not check out Bloom After Dark. Throughout the school holidays we’re bringing the city’s annual tulip display to life at night from 6:30pm - 9:30pm. Stroll along Pall Mall and explore glowing tulip beds and interactive flowers. Celebrate The Year of the Dragon at the Dai Gum San precinct, where Yi Yuan Gardens will come to life with a tunnel of lanterns, floating lotus flowers in the pond, and a large illuminated Chinese dragon!

Going On A Gnome Hunt

Perfect for all the family, get outdoors and go on a gnome hunt at the Village of Gnomes, from 14th September – 6th October. Make your way to Eaglehawk’s Canterbury Gardens precinct to find its newest residents. There are 12 gnomes to find. Enjoy exploring the gardens whilst hunting for gnomes as they lead you on a trail from the gardens to Eaglehawk Play Space. 

Activities galore in Hargreaves Mall

This September and October, enjoy free family activities in Hargreaves Mall. From live music, face painting, and juggling, to LEGO builds, a Roller Disco, Fun Loong Day, and the Moonlight Market—there’s something for everyone! Check the website for the full program.

Learn about nature at Spring In The Bush

The City of Greater Bendigo's Climate Change and Environment team have put together a wonderful array of workshops, walks and talks taking place in the Bendigo to celebrate the natural landscapes of the box-ironbark country. All events are free. Visit the website for the full program. 

Learning Disguised As Fun

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to spend some time out with your kids, be sure to check out Bendigo’s Discovery Science & Technology Centre . There are more than 100 interactive exhibits to explore, you can relax in the Planetarium, check out the Kaleidoscope, or take the big drop on the Vertical Slide – with a sheer drop of seven metres you will drop at a speed of 30-40km per hour.

Alternatively, make your way to the Dai Gum Sai precinct to the Golden Dragon Museum to explore Bendigo’s Chinese heritage. View the world’s oldest and longest Imperial Dragon’s, Loong and Dai Gum Loong, textiles, photographs and artefacts from Bendigo’s Chinese community.

Ever wondered what it would be like working underground as a gold miner? Visit Central Deborah Gold Mine where you can don a hard hat and descend 61 metres beneath the surface to discover where and how Bendigo’s gold is mined. Try your hand at the mine drill and look for gold. The tour is perfect for all the family 3 years and above. Above ground you can also pan for gold, eat a miner’s lunch and view the life of a miner.

Jump Aboard A Tram

Jump aboard one of Bendigo's iconic heritage trams and take a uniquely Bendigo tour of the city. It’s a fun way to explore, learn about Bendigo’s history and see key landmarks and monuments. A round trip takes approximately 45 minutes. Hot tip, jump off at the Bendigo Tramways Depot and check out their all-new Tram Café. It's had a spring makeover with blooming flowers adorning its carriage. Head on in and you can sit in the driver’s seat, play with the controls as though you’re driving the tram and watch the trams roll on in. The whole family is bound to love this experience.

Outdoor Adventure & Play

Sunny weather means we’re hitting the playgrounds and with over 130 to choose from in the Bendigo region, this one is a no brainer.  Your hardest decision will be which one to go to first. Our top picks are… Bendigo Botanic Gardens has a magical play space inspired by Alice in Wonderland complete with a secret garden, oversized throne chairs, hedges, hidden mirror and other treasures to explore.  Eaglehawk Regional Play Space at Lake Neangar is a must do with an extensive play space with water play, all-abilities equipment, flying foxes, beautiful colours and inspiration drawn from Banjo Patterson’s Mulga Bill poem. Lake Weeroona Play Space is a local favourite and recently upgraded. Based at the Lake Weeroona precinct, enjoy not only a play, but you can walk, ride or scoot around the lake will take around 20 minutes with food and coffee available to break up your outing.  Strathdale’s Park Play Space in Crook Street is an award-winning space that provides peace of mind with a fenced playground for little ones of all-abilities, a fun water play space, walking and cycling paths nearby, plus a coffee van on the weekends to keep you well caffeinated. 

School Holiday Fun at Bendigo Pottery

Head to Australia's oldest working pottery, Bendigo Pottery, for a workshop! They offer an exciting opportunity to explore the world of ceramics and nurture your kids inner creativity (and yours too). These workshops include wheel throwing and decorating classes, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Guided by our skilled potter and artist, you are ensured to take home a piece that is beautifully created and designed by yourself.

Jump aboard a steam train!

A fun family activity, you’ll enjoy the atmosphere, sights, sounds and movement of the historic steam train era. Enjoy the trip from your own family compartment where you can open the windows, listen to the whistle and feel the wind in your hair! This authentic steam era train experience links the historic gold mining towns of Castlemaine and Maldon.

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The City of Greater Bendigo acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples as the traditional custodians of the lands across Bendigo.

We acknowledge and pay respect to their Elders past present and emerging. 

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