Get behind the wheel and self-drive Sydney to Melbourne.

Choose from three distinct touring routes that traverse diverse terrain and take you into welcoming cities, towns and villages located between Australia's two largest cities. Along the way discover the many histories of the inland route, the mountain adventures of the Alpine road and the beauty of the beaches and scenic drive along the east coast.

Sydney Melbourne Coastal Drive hugs the east coast, past national parks with unique environments, beautiful surf and white sandy beaches and remarkable pristine lakes, whilst still offering local historic towns and quiet fishing villages where you can enjoy local produce in a natural environment.

The Sydney-Melbourne Heritage Drive leaves Melbourne and makes its way through inland Victoria, pauses in Canberra and then heads east to the harbour city, Sydney.

The Sydney-Melbourne Heritage Drive takes you to historic towns built on the riches of 19th-century gold rushes, ports where paddle steamers dock and Australia's capital city, the place where it all started.

Take the inland route between Sydney and Melbourne and discover the Australian spirit through the stories of settlers, gold, river trade and the making of a nation. Meander through historic streets to see impressive buildings and monuments of the mid to late 19th century gold rush. The treasures are the arts and crafts, museums, galleries and historical sites along the way.

Holiday on the water to embrace the beauty of the Murray River with its charming paddle steamers and stunning river beaches. Enjoy water activities and play at championship golf courses along Australia's greatest river icon.

Visit national institutions and reflect on our history, country, people and culture in Canberra, established in 1911 as the capital of Australia. European settlement of Australia began in Sydney with the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. Visit the iconic Sydney Opera House and see the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Take your time to experience this amazing journey on the highest road in Australia. As you tour the Great Alpine Road, the stunning mountains, valleys, lakes and waterways of Victoria's Alpine High Country are a rich setting for lovers of nature and adventure.

The Great Alpine Road is a 308 kilometre touring route that extends from Wangaratta in north-east Victoria to Bairnsdale in the heart of Gippsland.

Drive from Sydney along the Hume Highway (31) to Wangaratta, or the Princes Highway (A1) from Melbourne to Bairnsdale to begin your tour of the Great Alpine Road.

Cycle along the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail - the 94-kilometre trail follows the Ovens Valley from Wangaratta to Bright through pine forests and bushland, past wineries and into welcoming towns. If you are interested in getting into the scenery, climb on a mountain bike and try the downhill trails around Dinner Plain, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek, where chairlifts operate over the summer months to save you the uphill haul.

In summer pull on your walking shoes and explore the stunning national parks in the area. The Alpine National Park is home to 10 of the states 11 highest peaks, seasonal wildflowers, stunning landmarks and abundant wildlife. Pitch a tent beside an alpine lake, see snow gums, rocky outcrops and great views of the valley below at Mt Buffalo National Park.

If you time your tour of the Great Alpine Road for the winter months, make sure you bring your skis or snowboard and experience some of Australia's most beautiful alpine regions. Try Mt Hotham, known as Australia's 'powder capital', follow the cross-country trails around Dinner Plain, or head to Falls Creek, Victoria's largest resort.

If the water levels are right, make sure you experience the thrill of white-water rafting down the rapids of an alpine river. Tackle the 18-kilometre journey through grade 3 and 4 rapids and a spectacular granite ravine on the Mitta Mitta River.

The Alpine High Country is a popular destination with rock climbers and abseilers. If you are experienced, explore the many sites in the region including the sheer granite face of The Gorge at Mt Buffalo, or join a tour led by a licensed operator.