How to Spend a Few Days in Victoria, Australia: 'The Vibes Are Impeccable'

The Hollywood Reporter spends five days in Australia to make NFL history.

It's after 9pm on Qantas flight QF94 from Los Angeles to Melbourne, Australia, and business class passengers are stowing their overhead bags and settling into their seats for the next 15 hours. Even on a long flight, minutes after the wheels go up, a jovial energy flows through the cabin, and a woman wearing a big smile and a San Francisco 49ers sweatshirt leaps out of her seat to approach another passenger with a bold request — a selfie. Ignoring a good-looking famous actor standing in front of him, he lowers himself and politely places the camera in front of another big name who happens to be heading Down Under: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. It's no ordinary flight to Australia as it's packed with VIPs, fans, press and other insiders en route to Melbourne to make history with the league's first game in the popular country as part of a landmark deal between the NFL and Visit Victoria. And what a moment it was to be north of 100,000 seats inside the Great Melbourne Cricket Ground to watch the Los Angeles Rams play the San Francisco 49ers to kick off the 2026 regular season. But beyond the scoreboard — sorry, Rams — there was plenty to see, experience, eat and interact with across Victoria, as the tourism board hosted The Hollywood Reporter to check it out. Below are the highlights of five days in Victoria from Melbourne and Torquay to the Great Ocean Road and stunning ocean wildlife sanctuary. Sights

Qantas, also known as the flying kangaroo or the preferred airline of indigenous Australians, operates up to 40 flights a week between Australia and the US from major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York. (The airline will increase travel from the Big Apple by launching nonstop service between Sydney and New York starting in 2028 as part of Project Sunrise.) The first two cities listed above are important here because Qantas serves as the NFL's official airline partner in Australia and New Zealand. As such, it chartered A380 flights for the Rams and 49ers while filling its commercial flights with fans from around the world as Qantas reported a 50% increase in bookings from the US to Australia ahead of the 9/11 kick-off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. In the case of team charters, each plane had four pilots, 22 cabin crew and a charter manager along with more than 2,000 protein-maximized meals to help feed some of the NFL's always-hungry stars. For example, steak sandwiches were stuffed with extra meat, cheeseburgers were double-stuffed, and there were many meals and snacks that were served from overhead bins instead of luggage. Passengers were also able to feel comfortable on the long-haul flight while supporting their team of choice when Qantas staff surprised some guests at the boarding gates with custom pajamas featuring Rams or 49ers colors. Our teams have spent months working with clubs to make flying part of the experience, from menus designed alongside team catering staff to bespoke Qantas pajamas in each club's colours. For many athletes and staff this is their first visit to Australia and we wanted to give them a taste of the country from the moment they stepped on board.

Yes, long travel times and extreme jet lag can require maximum timing when traveling down under, but that's a minimal cost for what most travelers call the trip of a lifetime. This is why a great hotel is important. Enter Hana Street Hotel. Best described as a stylish urban hideaway with friendly staff around every corner, this is a new gem on Melbourne's hospitality scene. Designed by Time & Place and managed by TFE Hotels, this five-star property is located on the city's Southbank under the Kingsway. Featuring 188 rooms and suites with mid-century modern styles and all the amenities you need for a cozy stay in 2026. Pool, spa, steam room, 24-hour gym and fitness center, as well as the Work Club, a stylish workspace that also hosts a podcast studio. The hotel is within walking distance of Melbourne's main attractions such as Federation Square, National Gallery of Victoria, Yarra River, Queen Victoria Market and the Central Business District. Hotel restaurants aren't always 10/10, but the Hanna St. Hotel Coppet Corner Bistro & Bar is a must, whether for a hearty breakfast, a delicious dinner, or an afternoon martini. Also not to be missed: a matcha, espresso or almond croissant from Hannah St Coffee, a quick trip inside the terrace lounge or a nightcap at Hannah's lobby bar.

“Welcome to country is a ceremony based on purpose and respect,” explains the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong people guide of the Kolin Nation before leading a group in a traditional smoking ceremony that has many benefits. Not only does it honor the ancestors and respect the land, but it is believed to have cleansing properties that can ward off negative spirits or illness, refreshing one's body, mind and soles before charting a path on an Australian journey. Native plants such as eucalyptus channel the light, but instead of creating an open flame, smoke is created that allows visitors to waft it over their bodies and feet. This is a great day activity that provides a deeper look into Victorian history and the people who paved the way. "We value the country and look for value in the landscape," said our guide. We always make sure that we live in a way that is responsible and honest." In addition to the ceremony, there are guided walking tours throughout Melbourne and Victoria to enrich the experience, including this highly recommended tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

More information on Aboriginal walking: Visit Melbourne

The NFL made history on September 11 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground by hosting the league's first game in Australia. The moment wasn't lost on the locals either, as many say they've been waiting decades for a game Down Under. A man named Bill brought his son, Luca, to the game and told The Hollywood Reporter that they donned 49ers jerseys and came to the field early to soak up the scene and root for their favorite team. "This is our first NFL game and I've been a fan for years," Bill explained. "I don't think a lot of Americans realize how closely Australians follow the NFL. We follow it weekly and closely. It's huge for us." So are Nick Arya, 33, and Dylan Long, 31, who played for the Seattle Seahawks and Indianapolis Colts, respectively. "It's huge. I never expected the NFL to come here just because we're so far away, but the fact that they did and the whole city — and really, the country — has gone around it is pretty cool," he said. Arya added: "It's historic, and there are two big teams. If they were big teams, it might be a different story, but they're not. I just texted a friend to tell him the atmosphere here in Melbourne is perfect." Not only were the moods boosted by near-perfect weather and a record attendance of 100,000, the Jonas Brothers added star power with an electric halftime performance. Although no other games have been announced for Australia, insiders suggest the high attendance and warm welcome could inspire the NFL to make a comeback amid international league pressures. One Rams fan leaving the stadium - a native of Victoria, Australia - says that while he's upset about the outcome, he's hopeful for the game's future. "It's only up from here," he said.

No visit to Melbourne is complete without a stop at Queen Vic Market. Just be sure to pick your day accordingly, as the historic landmark—spanning two city blocks and home to more than 500 small businesses and vendors—is only open five days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday). It's been open for 140 years and still draws crowds of families, solo diners and chefs who choose fresh catches to fill their menus for the night. Fresh fruit and vegetables, local cheese and salami vendors abound, plus rows of oysters from Sydney to Tasmania (and even kangaroos for the adventurous). Be sure to swing by and get a spicy lamb burek from the Hull shops. If window shopping isn't your thing and you want something more detailed, lively and informative, book a tour with Flavourhood Tours.

Coffee isn't just big business in Melbourne, it's almost like a religion. So it makes perfect sense to look for a brand named after a person known as the "Patron Saint of Coffee." Established in 2005 and recognized as the largest and largest independent specialty coffee roaster in Australia, ST. ALi can be found in a variety of locations from airports to airlines (in four countries), but if a quick Uber ride isn't too much, we might suggest heading to the Port of Melbourne location, where they roast, package and ship tons of coffee. If it's good enough for Luke Skywalker - see below - it's good enough for us.

It's a museum meets cultural center that promotes the Koori (or First People) people, the Australian aborigines whose traditional lands are located in Victoria and southern New South Wales. The KHT operates as the only public collection in Victoria that provides a look at blind people, their art and culture through exhibitions, a reference library, cultural experiences (such as guided walking tours), a retail gift shop and more. In November, KHT presents A Journey Among Men, developed over two years, featuring new works by artists such as Mick Harding, Brendan Kennedy, Kevin Williams, Earl Hendy, Mitchell Harding, Cahill Kennedy, Iloka Sacks-Williams and Louis VanDen-Boursil to celebrate "the international and healing knowledge of a healing culture again".

The Great Ocean Road is over 100 years old and stretches 150 miles. It offers the best coastal road trips and it's easy to link up with California's Pacific Coast Highway, but it's not a fair comparison. The Great Ocean Road has natural wonders like the 12 Apostles and a rainforest in Great Otway National Park that you can't find on the PCH. In fact, there's so much to see (and surf) along the way, you'll want to give yourself at least two days or more to see as much as possible and stop at the highway's newest dining destinations (including The Rivet at Lovers Hill).

The Great Ocean Road begins in a charming seaside town called Torquay. With an estimated population of over 26,000, Torquay is notable for many reasons, including being the birthplace of iconic surf brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver. Needless to say, you won't have to look far at Torquay's Surf City Plaza to find the latest in surfwear and boardshorts, or to find out what the sport has done for the city. Speaking of which, make sure you stay at the Surf Hotel, a stylish boutique taken over by Blackwood's Jack Davies and George Robinson, transformed and raised from a dilapidated motel. Located steps from the ocean, the 17-room hotel features a restaurant run by award-winning chef Joe Barrett, who is on a mission to create food that's good for the planet, using fresh produce, turning problems into solutions, and avoiding ingredients known to be pests (see wild boar offerings on the menu). The Surf Hotel provides the perfect headquarters for an overnight stay, while the days can be filled with excursions up and down the Great Ocean Road. Return to Torquay for a meal at Barrett's or take a two-minute walk down the boardwalk for an incredible Middle Eastern-inspired meal at The Kyn (order the 'Feed Me' option). But don't forget to start your day with breakfast at Bomboras (order the toasted crufel or eggs benedict), a charming restaurant overlooking the beach.

The Great Ocean Road isn't short of amazing scenery, but nothing quite compares to a visit to Port Campbell National Park for a closer look at the natural wonder that is the 12 Apostles. The name has always been a misnomer because there are only seven original limestone formations still standing due to erosion. But even when the 12 apostles were originally called, there were only nine at that time. However, it is a stunning tourist attraction that attracts millions of people every year. Make sure you follow the trail for the photos and go early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds. The best way to see the whole scene - including London Bridge - is on a breathtaking helicopter ride.

More information: Visit Melbourne Helicopters and the 12 Apostles

In the iconic surfing film Point Break, set in Bells Beach, Australia, there's a climactic scene that sees Keanu Reeves' Johnny Utah tracking down Patrick Swayze's bod in a beautiful destination. Although movie fanatics are quick to point out that director Kathryn Bigelow didn't film that scene in Australia, Bells Beach is famous for other reasons as well. As one of the world's most dramatic surfing backdrops, known for its reefs and natural beauty, it also hosts Rip Curl surfing competitions. It's a short drive from Torquay and offers beach lovers the chance to walk up and down the sand with or without a board. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wild kangaroos in the fields across the street.

For a unique experience at sea, book an excursion on Portarlington's exhilarating oyster tours guided by the Whiffen family. The tours are led by Lance Wiffen with his son Shane and a team of friendly chefs and chatty staff (from Connie to Steph) on the Valerie, a lovingly restored boat that was once used as a shark fishery. The Wiffens run an oyster and seafood business in Port Phillip Bay, and the tour of their home turf begins with a stop at their oyster line so guests can experience what a real working farm looks and feels like. The best option to book a luxury seafood tour is a four-hour cruise that pairs premium seafood like clams, oysters, scallops, and more with tableside cooking demonstrations, old-time watering holes, and the best boat stories from people who've spent years on the water.

There is a Hollywood connection to one of the special destinations on the Great Ocean Road. When planning your trip, be sure to include a stop at Wildlife Wonders, a 30-acre sanctuary that is home to some of Australia's most prized creatures. The space was designed as a safe haven for the animals and was meant to look as untouched as possible, although it was designed and created by Brian Massey, who worked as art director on Peter Jackson's Hobbit franchise. Book a 75-minute walking tour with a "nature guide" who will give you all the details about the plants and animals that call the sanctuary home. Although nothing is guaranteed, tours are "almost certain" to include koalas, kangaroos, emus, putoros, bandicoots and more (often hanging out together). Although the walking tour is the gentlest of treks, for those with an appetite, be sure to grab a table at Emu Cafe and finish off lunch with a cup of Hello Coffee 'The Wildside' blend.