We’ve listed the major School holidays in Victoria and term dates to help your family pre-plan short trips and weekend getaways. For every term, explore different regional locations in Victoria. Make sure you book your stay at ChoiceHotels.com to get the best value.
VIC TERM 1
School Term Dates: Starts 30th January 2024 – Ends 28th March 2024
Autumn School Holidays: Starts 29th March 2024 – Ends 14th April 2024
Autumn School Holiday Ideas
Ballarat – Usher in milder weather and the natural beauty of Autumn with a weekend getaway to historic Ballarat. Around 90 minutes west of Melbourne, spend 48 hours with your family exploring the underground Sovereign Hill gold mine, vast Botanic Gardens and indulgent eateries.
International Comedy Festival: Melbourne’s annual International Comedy Festival is one of the city’s most popular events. With shows and activities for all ages, gather the family for a day or night out in the city between March 27 and April 21 for guaranteed tears of laughter. Check out our Comedy Festival guide here.
VIC TERM 2
School Term Dates: Starts 15th April 2024 – Ends 28th June 2024
Winter School Holidays: Starts 1st July 2024 – Ends 14th July 2024
Winter School Holiday Ideas
Swan Hill: On the banks of the Murray River, Swan Hill offers countless activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy. Travel back in time and live like a pioneer for a day at the Pioneer Settlement, then browse next door at one of Australia’s most comprehensive collections of native art at the Regional Art Gallery. Before you head home, rest and enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at one of the many wineries in the area.
Melbourne City: If you prefer the hustle and bustle of the big smoke, top up your Myki and catch the train into Melbourne CBD for a day on the town. Explore Chinatown, visit the Queen Victoria Market for local treats, and stop by Luna Park to ride the world’s oldest continually operating rollercoaster.
VIC TERM 3
School Term Dates: Starts 15th July 2024 – Ends 20th September 2024
Spring School Holidays: Starts 23rd September 2024 – Ends 6th October 2024
Spring School Holiday Ideas
Apollo Bay: Travelling down the Great Ocean Road, make a stop at seaside village Apollo Bay. Brimming with activities year-round, whether you’re seeking adventure, awe-inspiring views or just some downtime by the ocean. Mountain bike through the Great Otway National Park and visit the mesmerising Cape Otway Light Station, then relax at the town’s cosy stretch of restaurants, shops and quality watering holes.
Melbourne Royal Show: Every year Melbournians flock to the showgrounds to experience a range of inclusive and interactive activities and attractions at the Royal Melbourne Show. Between September 26 and October 6, get up close and personal with adorable baby animals, sample food from some of Australia’s most acclaimed chefs and jump onboard a thrilling carnival ride!
VIC TERM 4
School Term Dates: Starts 7th October 2024 – Ends 20th December 2024
Summer School Holidays: Starts 21st December 2024 – Ends 28th January 2025
Summer School Holiday Ideas
Mildura: If you’re looking to switch off and recover from the end-of-year chaos, Mildura offers a relaxing Christmas or New Year holiday destination. Spend a day on the lake and visit the area’s world-class wineries. If you’re ringing in the new year, don’t miss the free fireworks displays and live shows which take place at Nowingi Place.
Gumbuya World: When the weather heats up, a water park is the best place to be. Gumbuya World offers rides and activities for all ages, just 50 minutes southeast of Melbourne. Whether you prefer to test your flow-riding surf skills, jump onboard a rollercoaster, or just take a relaxing float down the 300m lazy river, Gumbuya guarantees hours of fun for the whole family.