Getting around Melbourne
Whether you self-drive or take advantage of Melbourne’s efficient public transport system, you’ll find it easy and efficient to get around the city.
By Mark Sariban
Australia’s cities all offer clean, efficient and affordable public transport options, allowing visitors to explore with ease and comfort. Known for its historic suburban tram system, Melbourne is no exception to this rule. Jump on board any of these great transport options and discover how easy it is to get around Melbourne.
Transport in Melbourne
St Paul's Cathedral, Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography
Melbourne offers free tram rides within the city centre. To use public transport outside of the free tram zone, you need to purchase a myki card. You can purchase a myki card from retail outlets displaying the myki sign, visitor centres and at train stations.
- Use your myki card on trains, trams and buses. You’ll need to load your card with some money to cover your fares. You can top it up at convenience stores and train stations as your balance runs low.
- You can also purchase a myki Explorer kit, which includes a myki card loaded with a full day of unlimited travel on trains, trams and buses in metropolitan Melbourne, handy maps and discounts on tickets to major attractions.
- To start your ride, tap your myki card on the reader when you board your selected mode of transport and be sure to tap off when you disembark.
Getting around Melbourne on public transport
Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography
Trains are a great way to visit attractions across the city and reach the surrounding suburb. Major stations in the city include Central, Flinders and Southern Cross Station. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.
- Trains to regional destinations including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Albury operate on the V/Line services. You can use your myki card on all train networks.
Getting around Melbourne by car
Flinders Lane, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography
Driving in Melbourne is easy and safe, but you may want to check whether your hotel charges a daily parking fee.
Melbourne is the only city in Australia with a ‘hook turn’ (a right-hand turn you make from the left-hand lane), so be sure to familiarise yourself with this manoeuvre if you’re planning to drive in the city.
Having a car for part of your trip may be beneficial if you plan to visit some of the stunning destinations outside of Melbourne, but you can also book tours to many of these places and leave the driving to someone else.
Tip: If you’re hiring an electric vehicle, you’ll find a map of charging stations here.
Other forms of transport in Melbourne
Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography
- Williamstown Ferries offers two-hour cruises from Southbank to Williamstown, a seaport at the mouth of the Yarra River.
