9-day Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

You can easily rent a car in Australia, and it’s a great way to explore routes like the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne.

To rent a vehicle, you’ll generally need:

• A valid UK driver’s licence (as it’s in English, an International Driving Permit is usually not required)
• A passport for identification
• A credit card in the driver’s name for payment and security deposit

Most rental companies also require drivers to:

• Be at least 21 years old, with additional surcharges often applying to drivers under 25
• Have held a full driver’s licence for at least 12 months
• Hold a licence valid for the type of vehicle being hired

You’ll find major rental companies at airports, city centres and regional locations across Australia, making pick-up and drop-off easy. It’s a good idea to book online in advance for better rates, especially during busy travel periods. You may also want to review insurance options carefully, as basic cover is usually included, with the option to reduce your excess for extra peace of mind.

You can rent a car in Australia, and it’s a great way to explore routes like the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne, but there are a few important requirements to be aware of.

To rent a vehicle, you’ll generally need:

• A valid Chinese driver’s licence
• An official English translation of your licence (as China does not issue International Driving Permits)
• A passport for identification
• A credit card in the driver’s name for payment and security deposit

Most rental companies also require drivers to:

• Be at least 21 years old, with additional surcharges often applying to drivers under 25
• Have held a full licence for at least 12 months
• Hold a licence valid for the type of vehicle being hired

Rental companies may have slightly different requirements, so it’s worth checking with your provider before you travel. You’ll find major rental companies at airports, city centres and regional locations across Australia, making pick-up and drop-off straightforward. It’s a good idea to book online in advance for better rates, especially during busy travel periods.

Absolutely, this coastal journey is designed to be flexible, allowing for additional overnight stops, a slower pace or driving the route in reverse. 

• Route in reverse: You can just as easily follow this itinerary in reverse, starting in Melbourne and finishing in Sydney.
• Scenic detours: Destinations like Jervis Bay and Wilsons Promontory National Park are especially worth stopping in if you have the time, with beautiful beaches and national parks.
• Adjustable pace: This stretch of coastline rewards a slow pace, so if you have the time, spend an extra night somewhere that stands out to you.

You can enjoy the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne at any time of year, but spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are particularly beautiful.

• Spring (September to November): Spring brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds than in the peak of summer. This is a great time for mild hikes, whale watching and rushing waterfalls.
• Autumn (March to May): Autumn is perfect for reliable weather and warm ocean temperatures. It's also peak harvest season across southern Australia's food bowls, so expect the likes of fresh oysters along the Sapphire Coast and wine harvests in the Mornington Peninsula.
• Summer (December to February): Summer is popular for swimming, beach stops and long sunny days, though it can be busier with holiday travellers and higher accommodation prices.
• Winter (June to August): Winter is cooler (with temperatures between 6.5ºC / 44ºF and 14ºC / 58ºF near Melbourne) but this season is still a great option for this itinerary, especially for whale watching along parts of the coast and escaping the crowds.