The City of Greater Bendigo was delighted with Bendigo's inclusion in the feature, which highlighted domestic travel experiences.

"We very much welcome any initiatives at a national level to help stimulate our tourism economy, support small businesses in our region and encourage Australians to explore their own back yard," Terry Karamaloudis, Bendigo's tourism and major events manager, said.

"With the restrictions for international travel in place for the foreseeable future, this is a fantastic opportunity for Australians from around the country to plan and explore Bendigo and our beautiful region, enjoy our wonderful iconic attractions, food and wine and arts culture."

Australian Traveller drew attention to some Bendigo's arts, historical and culinary attractions.

Suggestions for Daylesford drew from an interview with designer Lynda Gardener.

More news: Common cold spread in Bendigo ignites COVID-19 transmission concerns

Geelong, the Mornington Peninsula, the Grampians, Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, East Gippsland, and the towns along the Great Alpine Road were among the other Victorian destinations listed.

The Australian Traveller feature was produced in partnership with Tourism Australia.

Almost 5000 infrared thermometers are being distributed to Victorian holiday destinations ahead of the school holidays, amid a rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Testing clinics will be established in popular destinations such as Lorne, Apollo Bay, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Buller.

Several Bendigo business identities have raised concerns about non-essential travel to regional areas while Melbourne struggles with a spike in cases.

The City of Greater Bendigo has been advocating for restrictions to be handled differently in regional areas where there have been low or no new cases of COVID-19.