Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, and home to over 4 million people. Many of the citizens of Melbourne live in the suburbs that east and south of the Yarra River, sprawled around Port Phillip Bay and extending as far east as Mount Dandenong.
Melbourne was founded on the Yarra River in 1835 after an abortive bid in 1803 to establish a settlement inside the Port Phillip Bay heads near Sorrento.The Port Phillip District gained independence from New South Wales in 1850. Melbourne boomed in the 1850’s as a result of the gold rush in the region to the north.
Driving in Melbourne & Around Victoria
Driving in Victoria is relatively easy as Victoria is a small state. A seven day self drive car hire will allow you to cover most of the State easily. The Great Ocean Rd is popular and is a busy road on weekends and public holidays. We have maps and Travel Victoria Information on virtually all area’s for car hire within the State of Victoria. If you intend to use car hire and drive around the Melbourne metropolitan area, then you may require a GPS which we have for hire at $7 per day. We can also advise you how to complete the infamous ‘hook’ turn at tramline intersections in Melbourne’s CBD.
As all our cars are fitted with ETags, you will not have to worry about being penalised for using a toll road as all toll charges are automatically charged to your credit card. Random alcohol and drug testing is carried out by Victoria Police regularly in Melbourne Metropolitan Suburbs and all Regional areas of Victoria. Safe and careful driving is always the best insurance with car rental.
Long Distance Driving Advice for Car Rental in Victoria & Australia
If your travel plans are taking you in and around Victoria and perhaps even further interstate then here are a few tips which will make driving easier. If you intend doing a lot of freeway driving on your travels then selecting a rental car with cruise control will make a big difference to how you feel at the end of the day. 4-6 hour driving stretches tend to make the right leg sore without cruise control. Cruise control eliminates leg pain and also lessens the risk of speed camera/radar fines which are everywhere now. Taking a break every 2 hours is also recommended and will make driving easier if you have a rental car without cruise control. Dehydration can make you drowsy when driving so take plenty of water to drink for the trip.
If you are travelling interstate rent a GPS unit to make finding your travel destination easier. GPS’s (Sat Nav’s) are good value and you won’t get lost. If you intend driving in and around Melbourne then a GPS is a very good idea. Night driving in regional areas of Australia can be problematic with Kangaroo’s. If you can avoid travelling at night then do. This will lessen the risk of accidents and you will get to enjoy the overnight stay at a location of your choice and be fresh and relaxed to drive the next day.