Planning a weekend getaway to Bendigo? If you’re not already, there are plenty of reasons why you should. Prepare to be charmed by this regional city’s unique mix of gold-rush history, innovative art, heritage architecture and open garden spaces - plus delicious local eats and specialty coffee - just two hours from Melbourne. Make the most of your visit with our 48‑hour guide for the best things to do and see in Bendigo.

Start the weekend right with a hearty breakfast at local favourite, Percy & Percy. The former corner store has had a colourful history since the 1920s and is now one of the best cafes in Bendigo, serving up traditional and modern cafe fare with expertly crafted coffee. Settle into the courtyard and tuck into one of their famous all-day breakfasts or treat yourself to one of the tasty cakes, muffins and scones baked daily.

Bendigo is renowned for its vibrant arts precinct, with galleries, exhibitions and performing arts spaces attracting art lovers and curious visitors alike. Bendigo Art Gallery exhibitions lead the charge at one of Australia’s oldest and most acclaimed regional galleries. Established in 1887, Bendigo Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of works from the 19th century to the present day, offering public programs alongside major international exhibitions. 

Take a break and wander through historic Rosalind Park in the heart of Bendigo. Steeped in history, the park was once a grassy woodland on the traditional land of the Dja Dja Wurrung people until the 1950s gold rush transformed the area into a Government Camp. Today, you can explore the leafy avenues, historic trees and the ornate 19th-century conservatory built in 1837 with its rose gardens, heritage sculptures and spring tulip display.

Sacred Heart Cathedral

For a quiet interlude, the Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Bendigo must-visit. Marvel at the soaring grandeur of this magnificent neo-Gothic church, one of Australia’s largest cathedrals and the second tallest after St Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne. Step into the serene interior and see the stunning stained‑glass windows, vaulted ceilings and tranquil ambience. The cathedral is also known for the pealing of its five bells, each named after a saint.

Lake Weeroona

Not far from the cathedral, Lake Weeroona Bendigo is the perfect place to unwind. Once a dusty mining area in the 1870s, the picturesque lake is set in 18 hectares of sweeping parkland and is a popular fishing and recreation spot for both locals and tourists. Stroll the lakeside pathways, feed the ducks, or simply enjoy a peaceful seat by the water. Families will love the adventure playground and abundant picnic areas too.

For dinner and drinks, head to Bendigo’s historic Chancery Lane. This hidden laneway was once known as The Dispensary, due to the pharmacy that dispensed remedies to the locals back in the day, and now buzzes with an eclectic mix of bars, cafes and boutique shops. The Dispensary Bar & Diner is a popular Chancery Lane haunt serving up locally-inspired dishes and creative cocktails in a moody, intimate setting.

With their small batch specialty coffee roasted on-site, the Brewhouse Coffee Roasters is one for the coffee lovers. Open 7 days a week, you can order a brew of their heavenly house blend and grab a bite to eat with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. Fuel up with a Brewhouse Breakfast with the works or stop in for lunch and try their classic pulled pork burger or steak sandwich. You can even order some freshly roasted beans to take home with you.

Go panning for treasure at the historic Central Deborah Gold Mine. In its heyday, this authentic gold mine extracted almost 1000 kgs of gold during the height of the gold rush boom. If you dare, descend 61 metres below the surface and explore the hidden underground tunnels on a guided Mine Experience Tour. You’ll see traditional mining equipment in action and learn about the heritage mine’s fascinating gold rush history.

Learn about Bendigo's proud Chinese heritage from the gold rush to present day, preserved at the Golden Dragon Museum. In the mid 1800s, Chinese gold miners and merchants flocked to Bendigo to seek their fortune and the museum today is built on the site of the Chinese camp. See 19th-century parade dragons, historic processional costumes and Chinese artefacts.

The Woodhouse Bar & Grill

If you’ve worked up an appetite, the Woodhouse Bar & Grill is the only dedicated steak house in town and one of the best places to eat in Bendigo. Specialising in Wagyu beef cooked over red gum on the grill, the award-winning restaurant showcases top-quality local produce in every dish. Enjoy a cocktail or craft beer, or choose from over 28 wines by the glass, with plenty more by the bottle.

The Blues Tram

To round out the perfect weekend, take a ride on the legendary Blues Tram, one of the best things to do in Bendigo. It operates on select evenings, usually once a month. Enjoy a relaxed drink as musicians play live blues music aboard this historic tram as it rolls through downtown Bendigo. You can also take a Vintage Talking Tram Tour during the daytime, and learn about Bendigo’s fascinating history and see the city’s landmarks and monuments.

Where to stay

You’ll find a range of Bendigo accommodation options at the Quality Hotel™ Lakeside, from standard to luxury apartments. The hotel is just 1.4km from the Bendigo city centre and 10 minutes from Bendigo Airport, in a quiet and picturesque location opposite Lake Weeroona.

The relaxing and inviting Quality Inn™ Colonial is another ideal option when exploring the rich heritage of Bendigo. Close to the town centre, local shops and other fun activities in Bendigo, the Colonial has comfortable, well-appointed rooms, free WIFI and an on-site restaurant.

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