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Public Transportation

Getting Around Melbourne: A Guide to Public Transportation

Marina is a freelance writer who began contributing to TripSavvy in 2019. She set off with a one-way ticket to Asia in 2017 and has been living and traveling abroad ever since.

visit melbourne public transport

Don’t underestimate the size of Melbourne, Australia. Travelers may only stick to Central Business District and its surrounding neighborhoods—but the city extends so much further than that, stretching around Port Phillip Bay for 3,857-square miles.

Melbourne is kind of like New York City , in a geographical sense, because a lot of Melburnians live in the outer suburbs and travel into the city for work. The daily commute isn’t ideal by car, so people in the city opt to use the Public Transport Victoria train, tram, and bus system instead. Sixteen regular service train lines run north, south, east, and west into and out of the city. It’s an impressive and efficient system for such a big city. 

Here’s what you should know about getting around Melbourne.

How to Ride the Metro Melbourne Train Lines

Most people who use public transportation in Melbourne hop on the train. There are 16 Metro train lines that jut out of the city center and into the outer suburbs. The two main stations are Flinders Street and Southern Cross. Riding the train is a convenient alternative to driving, although a train ride could take just as long (if not longer) to get you where you want to go due to frequent stops.

  • Passes: First, you’ll need to buy a myki card for AU$6. It gets you onto trains, trams, and buses throughout Melbourne and regional parts of Victoria. You can purchase one at 7-Eleven stores, a ticket booth at a premium train station, or on myki machines. Next, load the card with money to get from one stop to the next. You can do this at the ticket booth or at the myki machine. 
  • Fares: The lowest amount of money you can add to your myki card is AU$10. That will get you two rides as the default fare for the train is $4.50 one way. Children, seniors, and students are eligible for discounted tickets. However, keep in mind that the price for each train ride is different, depending on how far you travel and when you travel. A smart thing to do if you’re visiting for a week is to buy a seven-day myki pass for AU$44. This will save you from continually topping up your card. You can check fares using the myki fare calculator .  
  • How to Ride: Once you’ve purchased and loaded a myki pass, you must tap your card onto the center of the reader as you enter the railway platform. When you get off at your desired stop, simply tap off the same way you tapped on. Metro police conduct random checks on every train to see if passengers paid for their ride. If you don’t tap on before entering the platform and an officer catches you, it could result in a hefty fine. 
  • Hours of Operation: The train lines operate from 5 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Thursday. The night network runs Friday through Sunday, with trains operating every hour after 12 a.m. 
  • Service Changes: It’s typical for the Metro train to have periodic service changes. Delays may happen due to construction on the tracks, public events, or disorderly conduct by passengers. In the event of a service change, there will be announcements made throughout the station and written on the monitors. Sometimes, buses replace trains between specific stops, but there is always clear signage to help you navigate your way. You can check to see if your train line is running on time using the Public Transport Victoria journey planner . 
  • Transfers: Transfers are relatively easy to complete when using the Metro train. You can hop off one train and onto another without re-tapping your myki card. If you get confused about a transfer, ask a Metro train station employee (you’ll spot them in neon orange jumpers). They’re usually on the platforms during hours of operation to help passengers with their journey.  
  • Accessibility: PTV train stations are accessible to people with disabilities. Ramps, designated seating, and a combination of audio and visual announcements are available at larger stops. If you have hearing difficulties, you can use the National Relay Service . For more information about accessibility and mobility aid specifications, check out the Public Transport Victoria website . 

You can use the journey planner on the PTV website or app to plan your route and find out real-time departure and arrival information.

Riding the Melbourne Metropolitan Bus Network

The public buses in Melbourne are another standard mode of transportation. There are 346 routes within Melbourne and regional Victoria, so it covers more than the train. You can get to shopping centers, hospitals, sporting venues, and other Melbourne attractions via bus. This map shows the different bus routes within Melbourne. You can use the Public Transport Victoria journey planner to help you find the specific stop you’re looking for. 

The public bus takes the myki card as a bus pass, so make sure it’s loaded with money before you get on the bus. Fares are the same as the train. Note that riding the bus will take significantly longer than the train. Traffic, stop lights, and stops will add an extra 10–20 minutes to your journey. 

Airport-Specific Shuttles

Melbourne has a fast, frequent, and cheap airport shuttle called the SkyBus . It’s a big red bus with WiFi onboard and plenty of seating. From Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, there are six SkyBus services: Melbourne City Express, Southbank Docklands Express, St Kilda Express, Peninsula Express, Western Express, and Airport Bus Eastside. The Melbourne City Express bus, for instance, departs every 10 minutes and transfers passengers directly from the airport to Southern Cross Station (and vice versa). It takes about 30–40 minutes and costs AU$19.75 one way.

Melbourne city trams are convenient for traveling to a specific destination within the city and the surrounding neighborhoods. The best part? It’s free within Melbourne CBD . Outside of this free tram zone, the tram takes the myki card, with fares the same as the train. Keep in mind that you cannot purchase a myki card on a tram or at a tram stop. 

Use the Metropolitan tram network map to help you get to where you want to go. Locate the area where you want to go, then check the route number and destination on the front of the tram.  

Taking the ferry in Melbourne is a great way to get on the water and travel across the peninsula. From Melbourne CBD, you can take a one-hour cruise to Williamstown, an outer suburb known for being the city's first seaport. It costs AU$24 one way and departs at various times, depending on the season. There’s also a 90-minute cruise from the city to Portarlington , a historic little town on the Bellarine Peninsula. This costs AU$16 for an adult one-way ticket.

Melbourne sits along the Yarra River, where you can hop on a water taxi to shuttle to different stops along the waterway. It operates seven days a week and departs every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to midnight. It’s a popular way to get around during the summer, so it’s recommended to book a water taxi ticket in advance.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

If you’re in a hurry, taxis and ride-hailing services are available throughout Melbourne. Local cabs, such as 13cabs , are white cars with bright orange writing on the sides. Ride-railing services such as Uber, DiDi, and Ola operate all over the city, including the surrounding suburbs. It’s a common and quick way to get around.

Car Rentals 

Renting a car to use within Melbourne CBD may not be the best idea. The city is dense with traffic, parking can get pricey, and the town has something called “ hook turns ,” which, if you’re not familiar with, are very tricky to navigate.

On the other hand, if you want to explore the Great Ocean Road or other outer suburb attractions, it might be a good idea to rent a car for the freedom to explore. Melbourne has car rental companies such as Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. You can rent a car from the airport or within the city. Don’t forget, Aussies drive on the left side of the road! 

Tips for Getting Around Melbourne

Getting around Melbourne isn’t very difficult. The city has an impressive amount of public transportation options with informative signs and friendly employees to help you navigate your way around.

  • Be wary of rush hour: Traveling during rush hour can be a bit of a headache. Peak traffic on public transportation and the roads is Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. During this time, the roads leading into and out of the city will be jam-packed with people traveling to and from work. If you’re traveling by train, be attentive towards the express services.
  • Melbourne CBD is very walkable: Melbourne CBD is easy to walk around because the streets are set up like a grid. If you’re following a map, it’s very straightforward, and sometimes quicker to walk than take the tram. 
  • If given the option, choose the train over the bus: The train is a bit more reliable without the traffic and quicker without so many stops. 
  • Download the Public Transport Victoria app: This will help with planning your journey throughout the city and the surrounding suburbs. It is available on both Google Play and the Apple Store .

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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, VIC © Josie Withers Photography

St Paul's Cathedral, Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

  • Airport Transfers
  • Accessibility

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.

Melbourne is serviced by two airports, Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Avalon Airport (AVV). There are several public transport options available for reaching the city from either airport.

  • SkyBus express services run between 4am and 1am daily from Melbourne Airport and from early morning to evening from Avalon Airport. Both SkyBus services stop at Southern Cross Station on Spencer Street in the city. Tickets can be purchased either online or at the airport.
  • You’ll find taxi ranks and rideshare pick-up areas at the front of each terminal – simply follow the signage. The journey to the city from Melbourne Airport takes around 30 minutes, or 50 minutes from Avalon Airport.

Tip:  If you’re in a group, it will be less expensive to travel from Melbourne Airport to the city by taxi or rideshare.

In Australia, airlines, trains, buses and ferries have accessible options for people using a wheelchair or mobility device.

  • Melbourne Airport provides special assistance for people with disabilities and can help with baggage, getting around the airport, and getting on and off the plane. 
  • The majority of buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria Accessibility page for information on using public transport before your trip.

Tip: Download the City of Melbourne’s  mobility map  to easily locate accessible toilets and car parks in the city.

Getting around Melbourne on public transport

Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC © Josie Withers Photography

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.

Catching a tram is a great way to get around Melbourne while getting a feel for the city. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

  • A Free Tram Zone operates in Melbourne city centre. If your travel is within this zone you don’t need to tap on or off with your myki card.
  • The free hop-on, hop-off City Circle Tram (number 35) is a great introduction to Melbourne, with city loop services running every 15 minutes. 
  • Melbourne’s suburban tram routes run in two zones, with the cost using your myki card calculated according to the zones you travel in.

The bus network is another efficient way of hopping around metro Melbourne and popular neighbourhoods. Use the Journey planner tool to find your route.

  • Night Network trains, trams and buses operate throughout the night on Fridays and Saturdays.

Getting around Melbourne by car

Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC © Josie Withers Photography

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.

Melbourne is served by numerous taxi companies. 

  • You can hail a taxi on the street (a taxi is available if its rooftop light is on) or at taxi ranks in built-up areas.
  • You can also book a taxi by phoning individual companies, or by downloading an app from 13cabs or GoCatch .

Tip: You will be asked to pre-pay an estimated fare when riding in a taxi after 10pm.

Most major ridesharing platforms operate in Melbourne, including Uber , Ola and DiDi , as well as local operator GoCatch .

Tip: Female travellers can also book a ride with Shebah , a rideshare service with all-women drivers catering to women. (Adult men can use the service if they need to transport a child who requires an approved child safety seat.)

Make the most of your time in Melbourne with a guided tour . Many tour operators offer half-day and full-day driving tours of the city and surrounds, including Show Me Melbourne and Melbourne Private Tours . 

  • Enjoy an emissions-free sightseeing tour of Melbourne by pedicab with Green Cabs .

visit melbourne public transport

Where to stay in Melbourne

Other forms of transport in Melbourne

Cyclists ride along Southbank in Melbourne, VIC © Josie Withers Photography

Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria © Josie Withers Photography

  • Water taxis
  • Cycling & scooting
  • Williamstown Ferries offers two-hour cruises from Southbank to Williamstown, a seaport at the mouth of the Yarra River.

If you’re in town for a sporting event or a stadium concert, you can catch a water taxi from Southbank to Melbourne’s sports precinct .

Melbourne is mostly flat and has an extensive network of bike paths, making it easy to cycle around the city.

  • Download an app from Neuron to access a pool of shared e-scooters across Melbourne.

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Melbourne, Victoria © Ray Captures

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visit melbourne public transport

Melbourne Public Transport: A Guide for Visitors

Learn how you can explore Melbourne with free rides and more.

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Melbourne is best known as the coffee capital of Australia and the home of the flat white. But even if you’re not a coffee drinker, Australia’s second-largest city has so much more to offer: a thriving café culture, an innovative dining scene, and diverse arts and cultural offerings that have also earned the city a reputation as the country’s arts capital.  

Outside the city, the state of Victoria is also known for its many wineries, ski resorts in the beautiful alpine region, and the famous Great Ocean Road — one of the country’s most scenic coastal drives. 

We recommend you rent a car if you’re planning to explore Melbourne’s outskirts, but within the city, Melbourne has one of the country’s best public transport systems and you can save a few days on car rental.

In This Guide

  • Before arrival
  • On arrival: take the Skybus to the city
  • Getting around Melbourne: trams , trains , buses
  • Etiquette & safety

Beyond Melbourne: getting around Victoria

Before arrival: what you need to know.

Google Maps shows most of the general public transport information you’d need to get around Melbourne. However, if you want more detailed routes and guidance, try:

  • Citymapper . It’s extremely comprehensive and you can use it on both desktop and their mobile app.
  • The PTV app (Public Transport Victoria) to see the routes of trams/trains/buses and get real-time updates.

Rideshare apps such as Uber, Ola and Didi are also handy in case you decide on a private hire car instead!

On arrival: take the SkyBus to the city

Once you’ve landed and collected your bags at Melbourne Tullamarine airport, you’ll want to head for the SkyBus. SkyBus stands are located just outside the terminals, along with a ticket counter and machine. 

You can buy a single trip or return ticket at the ticket counter — it costs A$19.75 for a single trip, or A$36.50 for a return trip. Or, you can buy online via Klook for A$14.50/A$26.45 (~30% off!) There is no specific date tied to the tickets and they are valid for three months from the date of purchase.

SkyBus offers 6 different services from the airport to:

  • Melbourne CBD (24-hour service).
  • Southbank and Docklands
  • Frankston and suburbs in the Mornington Peninsula
  • Western suburbs
  • Eastern suburbs

Check the SkyBus website for the timetables of each service. 

Getting around Melbourne: taking the tram 

Fun fact: with over 250km of track, the Melbourne tramway is the largest urban tramway network in the world! It’s also super efficient, with some tram lines running round the clock on Fridays and Saturdays. 

As a tourist, you’ll likely be staying in the city center, or Melbourne CBD (Central Business District). While accommodation here is more expensive, public transport by tram is completely free . Really. Melbourne has a designated free tram zone (PDF map) that covers attractions such as Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne’s famous laneways covered in street art, Old Melbourne Gaol, and more.

However, once you travel out of the free tram zone to popular suburbs like St Kilda for the beach, South Yarra, Fitzroy, Richmond, Collingwood, you have to pay for your ride. For that you’ll need to get a myki card , the stored value transport card that can be used on all modes of public transport.

You can purchase a myki from ticket machines at all Metro railway stations, 7-Eleven stores, at more than 800 retailers across Melbourne, or even online . An adult myki costs A$30 and contains A$24 stored value (the card costs $6).

Tram on road, Melbourne

To use the trams, simply hail one at a tram stop with an outstretched arm (like you’d hail the bus). “Touch on” your myki at the tram’s card reader when boarding at any door. You should see a green light and hear a beep.

Melbourne trams do not stop at every stop. If you want to alight at the next stop, make sure to pull the stop cord or press the stop button! There’s no need to “touch off” when alighting.

Melbourne tram transport costs

Outside of the free tram zone, Melbourne’s transport fares can be quite pricey.

  • Within a 2-hour time frame, one ride in Zone 1 and 2 costs $4.50 — but the maximum that you can be charged in a day is $9.00 (two rides).
  • On weekends and public holidays, one trip costs A$3.25 and the daily fare is capped at A$6.50. 

Most travelers won’t travel beyond Zone 2, so you don’t need to worry about it.

If you are staying in Melbourne for 7 days, you may consider getting the Myki Pass for $45.00. The pass is valid only for 7 consecutive days or between 28 and 365 days.

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Getting around melbourne: taking the train .

Trains are the best way for travelling further out from the city. Note there are two main types of trains: 1) Metro metropolitan train network and 2) V/Line regional train network.

Metropolitan train network

Melbourne’s metropolitan train network comprises 15 lines that serve the suburbs around the city. All metropolitan train lines lead out from the city centre at the extremely busy Flinders Street Railway Station, one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks. 

Flinders Street Station, Melbourne

A single ride within 2 hours costs the same as the tram ($4.50). 

The V/Line regional train and coach network connects you to regional Victoria from Southern Cross station. You can take the train to popular Victorian cities such as gold mining towns Ballarat and Bendigo, the spa town of Daylesford or even coastal Aireys Inlet which lies along the Great Ocean Road. Ticket prices are dependent on your destination.

Getting around Melbourne: taking the bus 

Buses are usually the least crowded public transport, so if you have time to spare and just want to take your time to explore slowly, the bus is the way to go. 

Melbourne public transport etiquette & safety

When using public transport in Melbourne, take note of the following:

  • When using escalators, stand on the left and move on the right .
  • Peak hours (~7-9am, 5-7pm) can be really crowded on trams and trains. Be considerate and move in and away from doors when you board.
  • Priority seats on trams are usually covered in orange fabric and are near doors. On trains, there are stickers that indicate the priority seats. 

Pro tip : If you have remaining value left on your Myki card before you depart, you can visit the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station (7:30am-6:30pm on weekdays; 9am-6pm on weekends and public holidays) to get a refund on the spot. Note that refunds can’t be processed for <$5 or >$50, and make sure to bring your passport for identification.

Buildings along Chapel Street in Melbourne

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Public transport

Getting to where you want to go in Melbourne is easy with our reliable public transport system and taxis.

Many locals in Melbourne use our reliable public transport system to get to work and get around. Public transport in Melbourne is easy to use – you can get around on trains, trams and buses using the one payment method. Taxis are also readily available.

Using trains, trams and buses in Melbourne

Melbourne has one of the best public transport systems in Australia, offering a number of services including trains, buses and trams (also known as trolleys or streetcars).

Metro operates Melbourne’s metropolitan train network, while V/Line operates Victoria’s regional public transport. Different companies operate our trams and buses.

myki card – your transport ticket in Melbourne

No matter what form of public transport you use throughout Melbourne, you can pay for all of them with one payment method: a myki card.

myki is plastic card used to ‘touch on’ when you start travelling and ‘touch off’ when you finish travelling. It’s similar to other public transport ticketing systems around the world and makes travelling through Melbourne much easier. You simply add money to the card and top up when you need to.

Visit the myki website for more information on how to buy and use a myki as well as cost information.

Go to the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website to find out how to use Melbourne’s public transport system.

Melbourne taxis

Taxis (cabs) are readily available in metropolitan and regional areas. To hire a taxi you can:

  • make a phone booking
  • make an online booking
  • wait at a taxi-cab rank
  • hail a taxi from the side of the road or using an App.

Although there are various taxi companies, taxis in Melbourne are easily recognisable by the signs that sit atop their roofs and the branding painted on their doors.

Every fare is metered and extra charges can apply, for example for road tolls.

All taxis must be registered and the driver must display his/her identification in the car for you to see. Fare information is also displayed inside taxis for you to easily see.

More information about Victoria’s taxi services is available on the Taxi Services Commission website .

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A Guide to Public Transport in Melbourne

To help you learn the ropes, we've put together this handy guide with everything you need to know about using public transport in Melbourne

There are so many great reasons to choose Melbourne as your international study destination, one of which is the amazing public transport network in the city. With a well-planned and efficient system, public transport in Melbourne is both easy and affordable.

Figuring out how to get around in a new city can be challenging. To help you learn the ropes, we've put together this handy guide with everything you need to know about using public transport in Melbourne.

Trams, buses and trains

Trams, buses and trains are popular transit choices in Melbourne. With frequent services running across the city and surrounding suburbs, you’ll have no problem getting wherever you need to go.

Melbourne's trams aren't just an icon of this great city - they also play a vital role in the transport network. With 24 routes, Melbourne’s tram network is one of the biggest in the world.

Plus, thanks to the Free Tram Zone , you can travel on trams within the city centre for free. If you're doing some sightseeing, the City Circle Tram offers a free hop-on-hop-off service that will take you on a guided tour around Melbourne’s biggest sights and attractions.

Trams run every seven to 10 minutes during peak times and every 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours.

Melbourne also features a great bus network you can use to get around. You’ll find that buses are especially handy for getting to and around Melbourne's outer suburbs, where there are fewer trams.

On busy routes and during peak hours, you can expect most buses to arrive every 10-15 minutes. On quieter routes or during off-peak times, buses will usually arrive every 20-30 minutes.

You’ll also have the option of using Melbourne’s great train network, which is run by Metro Trains . Trains are a great choice for longer trips between Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.

Trains run from 5am to midnight every day, with services offered every four to five minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes during off-peak times.

Those hoping to travel from Melbourne to regional areas will benefit from the VLine , which connects passengers to areas such as Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Gippsland and Seymour. You can use your myki card on some lines but will need to purchase a paper ticket for certain destinations, such as Albury, Shepparton and Warrnambool.

Save money on public transport with an International Student Travel Pass

Eligible students can get a 50% discount and can save up to $1034*. State wide passes can be purchased so you can travel across Victoria for the same price as within Melbourne. The Pass is available in three versatile options - 90 days, 180 days or 365 days to suit your preference.

To be eligible, you must be an undergraduate international student studying full-time at an institution that's part of the program.

*Based on a 365 day pass.

Night Network

While regular train, bus and tram services end at midnight, you can get out and about all night long on Fridays and Saturdays thanks to the Night Network .

The Night Network runs all-night services on select train, tram and bus lines throughout Melbourne. The Night Network even operates a night coach, which ferries people between Melbourne and other metropolitan hubs like Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong.

Ticketing and transport passes

The fares you'll pay on Melbourne's public transport depend on how far you’re travelling and your ticket type. The public transport network is separated into three zones :

  • The Free Tram Zone

If you're travelling to or within the outer suburbs , you may only need to pay the Zone 2 fare, while travelling in the city  or between zones means you'll pay for travel in both Zone 1 and 2.

You can learn more about Zones via Public Transport Victoria (PTV) and discover which zone your nearest stop or station is in here . Simply navigate the page depending on your preferred method of transport, enter your stop and route details, and the system will generate the information you need, including your Zone number.

To use public transport in Melbourne, you'll need a myki card. This can be used on all trains, trams and buses, as well as on some regional services.

You can purchase a myki card from train stations, ticket machines and some convenience stores. Once you have your myki card, you'll be able to use this by tapping it to the readers on buses, trains and trams.

It’s important to remember that travelling without a valid ticket or failing to touch on when you board can lead to serious fines , so make sure you follow the rules when using public transport in Melbourne.

Carshares, taxis and rideshares

For those times when you need a private vehicle, Melbourne also has plenty of car share, rideshare and taxi options.

Car sharing

Car sharing through companies like Flexicar , GoGet and Uber Carshare all the convenience of having your own car without the cost. It’s also better for the environment, as it reduces the number of private vehicles on the road.

Once you've registered online with a car-sharing service, you can book a car online and collect it from a location near you.

Rideshare companies like Uber , Ola and Didi also operate in Melbourne, along with specialised rideshare operators, like Shebah , a women-only service.

To book a rideshare, download your chosen rideshare app on your phone. You'll then be able to book yourself a ride whenever you need one.

E-Scooters and E-Bikes

There are also Lime and Neuron electric scooters and bikes available to rent across Melbourne. To ride one, you will need the corresponding app to unlock the scooter or bike. Your fare will be determined based on time; the app requires $1 to start the rideable device and then $0.45 per minute after that. You can also rent a scooter or bike for a 90-minute period, which will cost a flat rate of $15.

These devices can only be ridden in certain areas of Melbourne and riders must follow all safety requirements, such as wearing a helmet. It’s also important to note that personal e-scooters are prohibited for public use in Melbourne.

Learn more about the laws and regulations for e-scooters at VicRoads .

You can also learn about e-bike hire on the City of Melbourne website .

You can also easily get a taxi anywhere in Melbourne. In busy areas like the CBD, you can hail a taxi on the street or head to one of the many cab ranks. Alternatively, you can book a taxi online or by phone with any of the city's cab companies, such as:

  • 13 Cabs - 13 22 27
  • Crown Cabs – 1300 12 13 14
  • Silver Top Taxis – 13 10 08

To find out more about transport in Melbourne, check out our guide to getting around . You can also learn more about public transport in Victoria via the PTV website .

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visit melbourne public transport

Adventures by Public Transport

Many beautiful walks and other outdoor activities can be reached using trains, buses or even ferries. You don't need the car to have a great day out.

It is as important as ever to tread lightly and lessen our impact on the precious places we love.

Taking public transport is one way to minimise your carbon footprint, as is walking, and combining the two can lead to one great day out.

Make sure you use Public Transport Victoria’s Journey Planner to plan your adventure, and check for the latest national park information, including maps and accessibility, on the Parks Victoria website .

Header image credit: Parks Victoria

Day Walks Details

Close to Melbourne and short in duration – perfect for your daily nature hit!

visit melbourne public transport

Dandenong Ranges National Park

The Dandenong Ranges is a beautiful park right on the edge of Melbourne! Take a walk through the lovely mountain ash forests and challenge yourself to the 1000 steps Kokoda Memorial Trail – a 3km loop with almost 300m of vertical ascent. It may be busy on weekends, so you might want to plan around the crowds – mid-week or early morning are often quieter. Other walks in the area include the Belview Loop at 4.5km, or if you’re after something shorter, the Ramblers Track Loop is an easy 1.5km.

Getting there: Hop onto the Belgrave Line Train from Flinders Street Station to Upper Ferntree Gully Station. From there, it’s just over a 1km walk to the base of the Kokoda Memorial Trail, where there are three different loop tracks to tackle. If you’re after a longer day hike, there are other tracks you can link together to make a larger loop.

Park information/maps: www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/dandenong-ranges-national-park

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French Island National Park 📷 Parks Victoria

French Island National Park

French Island is a walkers’ paradise with a variety of tracks. Cycling is also popular – you can bring your own bike on the train or hire one at the general store, 1km away from Tankerton Jetty. Home to a large population of koalas, there is also a diverse range of habitats to explore, from mangrove saltmarshes to woodlands. You can also camp on the island and stay for a longer adventure.

The Old Coast Road Track starts at Tankerton Jetty and is a flat 5km each way. The West Coast Wetlands Walking Track is also popular for birdlife and orchids. It includes the Pinnacles Lookout for spectacular views of the wetlands, bay and island.

Getting there: Jump on the Frankston Line from Flinders Street to Frankston Station, then onto the V/Line service to Stony Point. From here, you’ll need to get on a passenger ferry to French Island’s Tankerton Jetty. Check timetables and book tickets here: www.westernportferries.com.au

Park information/maps:

https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/french-island-national-park

Weekend Adventures and Multi Day Hikes Details

If you’re looking for something a little different for your next weekend away, or want to fully immerse yourself in a nature experience, these wonderful walks and spectacular campgrounds can be enjoyed while leaving the car at home.

Make sure to check the Parks Victoria website before you go, for up to date information on area closures and issues.

visit melbourne public transport

The Grampians-Gariwerd National Park

Halls Gap at the base of the Grampians is accessible by V/Line coach and is very central to Grampians-Gariwerd, with various loop trails accessible from here. Make sure you go to the Halls Gap Visitors Centre to pick up a map of the Southern Grampians. The Pinnacle Walk is fantastic, as is the MacKenzie Falls Track. You can link the two through a variety of walking tracks.

Various campsites are close to the town, including the caravan park and bush campsites marked on the map. There is also a variety of local accommodation options well worth checking out.

Getting there: Hop on the Ararat V/Line train to Ararat from Southern Cross Station. From here, there are two options: use the Dimboola V/Line coach from Ararat to Stawell and then the Halls Gap V/Line coach to Halls Gap Information Centre; or use the Warrnambool V/Line coach from Ararat to Halls Gap Information Centre.

www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park

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Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park is a beautiful park to visit and is accessible by public transport. The Surf Coast Walk is a 44km walk that runs through the park from Torquay to Aireys Inlet. It can be broken up into 12 parts, so you can stop and start wherever you please. You can also do sections in day trips, as most of them start and end in towns with V/Line coach stops. Ironbark Basin to Anglesea is a popular section that runs directly through the park and is 9.7km. Currawong Falls Circuit Track is accessible from Distillery Creek Picnic Area in Aireys Inlet. It’s the perfect place to visit after rain, to see the waterfalls in all their glory. Be mindful that there are some steep sections along this 12km walk.

Getting there: Jump on the V/Line train to Geelong/Waurn Ponds from Southern Cross Station and depart at Geelong. Then onto a V/Line coach towards Apollo Bay. There are several stops along the Great Ocean Road where you can walk to access points along the Surf Coast Walk.

Great Otway National Park www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/great-otway-national-park

Surf Coast Walk www.surfcoastwalk.com.au

visit melbourne public transport

Greater Bendigo National Park/Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park/Wombat State Forest on the Goldfields Track

These parks and forests are destinations on the ‘Goldfields Track’, a 210km track from Creswick/Ballarat to Bendigo for both bushwalkers and mountain bike riders. It is relatively flat to hilly terrain. The trail is broken up into multi-day and shorter sections, in proximity to towns with public transport options at Ballarat/Creswick, Daylesford, Castlemaine and Bendigo. They are great ways to explore the forests and towns of central Victoria.

The Ballarat/Creswick to Daylesford section is a multiday walk through farmland and Wombat State Forest. The Daylesford to Castlemaine section is 61km and shows changes in habitat types and the famous Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. The Castlemaine to Bendigo section shows off Mount Alexander’s granite tors and box-ironbark forest.

Getting there: Take the Bendigo/Epsom/Eaglehawk/Echuca V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Castlemaine or Bendigo. There is also a coach from Woodend Station to Daylesford. If you’re planning to start from Creswick, take a Ballarat/Wendouree line train and there are regional coach services to Creswick. The walks themselves often start/conclude at the train/bus stations.

Goldfields Track www.goldfieldstrack.com.au

Greater Bendigo National Park www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/greater-bendigo-national-park

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/castlemaine-diggings-national-heritage-park

Mount Alexander Regional Park: www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/mount-alexander-regional-park

Melbourne Airport car parks cut, passenger pick-up area moved as part of road project

Travellers are being warned there will be fewer places to park at Melbourne Airport, including over the busy Labour Day long weekend and Easter holiday period.

Construction will begin in March on the second stage of a new elevated road, known as Naarm Way, connecting the Tullamarine Freeway to new passenger pick-up and drop-off zones inside the airport's multi-storey car park.

Qantas, Virgin and international passenger zones will be moved to levels two and three of the T123 carpark, requiring the closure of 2,000 parking spaces.

Melbourne Airport's chief of Ground Transport, Property & Retail, Jai McDermott, said the project will make it easier to enter and exit the airport once it is completed.

"It'll mean a quicker, more reliable and less stressful journey time for people coming to and from the airport by car," Mr McDermott said.

A 3D rendering on an airport

Five hundred of the car parking bay losses will be temporary during construction, but 1,500 will be permanent.

Mr McDermott said it represented just 10 per cent of Melbourne Airport's 24,000 car parking bays.

He admitted it could be tricky to find a park during peak travel times, such as long weekends and Easter.

But he said the airport had planned for those periods and urged travellers to book ahead to guarantee a spot.

Aerial View of the new road network in the Melbourne Airport precinct

Mr McDermott said air travel had returned to pre-pandemic levels, and moving the passenger drop-off zone to inside the multi-level car park would help avoid queues of cars leading into the airport.

"It's about investing ahead of those congestion issues arising so we're ready for the growth that's going to come over the next 10 to 20 years," he said.

Once the new road was completed in 2026, only Skybus, taxi and ride share passengers will use the existing drop-off zones in between the terminals and multi-storey car park.

The $70 million first stage of the project involved a new exit from the Tullamarine Freeway to Terminal 4, which eliminated multiple intersections between the freeway and airport terminals.

The Corporation said Naarm Way was Melbourne Airport's largest road investment since Airport Drive opened in 2015.

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The Transportation Department proposes new rules for how airlines handle wheelchairs

Joel Rose

Passengers wait in line at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in 2021 in Virginia. Alex Wong/Getty Images hide caption

Passengers wait in line at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in 2021 in Virginia.

WASHINGTON — For people who use wheelchairs, air travel can be a nightmare . There are countless stories of wheelchairs damaged, delayed and even destroyed.

Now the Biden administration is trying to change that by proposing new standards for how airlines must accommodate passengers with disabilities.

"Transportation is still inaccessible for far too many people, and that's certainly true for aviation," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a call with reporters. "This is about making sure that all Americans can travel safely and with dignity."

A New Rule Means Some People With Wheelchairs Can't Fly On American Airlines

Investigations

A new rule means some people with wheelchairs can't fly on american airlines.

The Department of Transportation invited dozens of other disability advocates to Washington on Thursday to talk about the proposed regulation . It would make mishandling of wheelchairs an automatic violation of the Air Carrier Access Act — making it easier to hold airlines accountable when they damage or delay the return of a wheelchair, Buttigieg said.

When airlines break a wheelchair or other mobility device, disability advocates argue, it's not like any other piece of luggage.

"People don't realize that this is a part of my body. If this is broken, you've broken my legs," said Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, who lost both of her legs in the Iraq war. Duckworth has pushed to require airlines to disclose how many wheelchairs they damage. She says they broke 892 wheelchairs in a single month last year.

"Imagine if the American public saw that the airlines broke 892 pairs of legs in a single month. There would be hue and cry, but there hasn't been," she said.

After Her Wheelchair Was Left Behind, Woman Describes How Airlines Can Do Better

The proposed rule would mandate that airlines provide more training for employees and contractors who physically assist passengers with disabilities and handle passengers' wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

DOT advisor Kelly Buckland, who also uses a wheelchair, says that training is key to protecting wheelchairs — and preventing injuries to disabled passengers.

"I think a lot of the general public is aware about the damage to our equipment. But I don't think there's as much awareness around how we get harmed," Buckland said.

The proposed rule includes hefty fines of more than $100,000 per incident. The major airlines have not said anything publicly about that. Their trade group Airlines For America said in a statement that carriers are "committed to offering a high level of customer service and providing a positive and safe flight experience for passengers with disabilities."

Despite calls to improve, air travel is still a nightmare for many with disabilities

Despite calls to improve, air travel is still a nightmare for many with disabilities

The immediate reaction from disability advocates was largely positive, though some expressed disappointment about what the proposed rule leaves out.

"The reason I didn't fly any more and I gave up flying was too much damage to my chair," said Theo Braddy, the executive director of the National Council on Independent Living.

Braddy says not flying has held him back in his career, and stopped him from traveling with his wife. But he says the DOT's proposal is changing his idea of what's possible.

"I didn't think this kind of stuff would happen in my lifetime. I thought that was okay, though, because the next generation would benefit," Braddy said. "I'm realizing maybe I will see it in my lifetime."

Flying is "by far the part of traveling that I dread the most," said Cory Lee, who writes a blog about accessible travel called Curb Free With Cory Lee . Lee says his powered wheelchair weighs about 400 pounds, and estimates that it's damaged in some way about half of the times he flies.

"Air travel is what needs the most help in the travel industry to become more inclusive and accessible. And any step toward getting better is important," Lee said in an interview.

But Lee and other wheelchair users had been hoping for more.

Wheelchairs On Planes: Why Can't Passengers Use Their Own Onboard?

Shots - Health News

Wheelchairs on planes: why can't passengers use their own onboard.

"The rule certainly is doing something, but I don't know if it's doing enough," said Emily Ladau, a disability rights activist and author of the book Demystifying Disability .

Under the rule, airlines would be required to provide "prompt assistance" to passengers with disabilities when boarding and deplaning. Ladau says she wants more clarity about how that is defined.

"I can't tell you how many times I have sat on the plane waiting for sometimes close to an hour, if not more, just to have my wheelchair returned to me," Ladau said. "And occasionally have found that my wheelchair was not returned to me promptly because it was damaged."

The proposed rule does not include what Lee called his "ultimate dream" to stay in his own wheelchair on a plane .

"That is the Holy Grail, and we are working toward it," Buttigieg said, while acknowledging that allowing passengers to stay in their wheelchairs on the plane will be "very challenging" from a safety and engineering perspective.

For now, the DOT has more work to do before these proposed rules get off the ground. The public has 60 days to comment.

  • Transportation Department
  • Disabilities

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COMMENTS

  1. Public transport, Getting here and around, Travel information, Victoria

    Melbourne's Night Network offers all-night public transport on weekends, with all-night metropolitan trains and trams, late-night buses, and a 2am coach service to key regional centres. Standard myki fares apply. For timetables and route maps visit the PTV website.

  2. Getting Around Melbourne: A Guide to Public Transportation

    Peak traffic on public transportation and the roads is Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. During this time, the roads leading into and out of the city will be jam-packed with people traveling to and from work. If you're traveling by train, be attentive towards the express services.

  3. Visiting Melbourne and Victoria

    PTV Hubs. by calling 1800 800 007. stations and stops - look for station barrier staff, Protective Service Officers or Authorised Officers. on trains, trams and buses - speak to the driver if they aren't driving, or look for an Authorised Officer. We provide a range of public transport information in languages other than English.

  4. Getting around Melbourne

    Getting around Melbourne on public transport. 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 ...

  5. Melbourne public transport guide

    1. Trams. Best for: Visitors hopping between CBD attractions or visiting the inner suburbs. Price: Free to $4.60 per trip (with a daily cap of $9.20) Melbourne's most iconic form of public ...

  6. Melbourne Public Transport: A Guide for Visitors

    Outside of the free tram zone, Melbourne's transport fares can be quite pricey. Within a 2-hour time frame, one ride in Zone 1 and 2 costs $4.50 — but the maximum that you can be charged in a day is $9.00 (two rides). On weekends and public holidays, one trip costs A$3.25 and the daily fare is capped at A$6.50.

  7. Public transport

    Public transport - City of Melbourne. Danielle, Daily Support Team client. Chris, Daily Support Team client. Vicky Vacondios, Homelessness Advisory Committee. Melbourne's public transport is the easiest and best way to get around the city.

  8. Melbourne Transport Guide: How to Get Around

    Melbourne is still without a train to and from the airport, so to get from Melbourne airport to the city, your options are Uber/rideshare or taxi, renting your own car, or taking the SkyBus. An Uber or taxi will cost you around $45-$75 (up to $100 sometimes during peak periods). There are two taxi ranks, one outside of Terminal 1 and the other ...

  9. Getting around in Melbourne

    For timetables, maps and a journey planner, visit Public Transport Victoria (PTV). Handy transport planning apps include PTV, tramTRACKER and CityMapper. Visitors also have the option of a Myki Explorer pack ($16), which includes the card, one day's travel credit and discounts on various attractions including several museums.

  10. Getting here and around, Travel information, Victoria, Australia

    Trains, trams and buses will get you just about anywhere you want to go in Victoria. Public transport has you covered in Melbourne and regional areas. Whether you're travelling interstate or from overseas, Victoria has a range of transport options to get you here - by air, bus, train, car or boat.

  11. Getting Around Melbourne: Free Tram Zone + Public Transport Guide for

    At first glance, Melbourne's public transport system might seem a little hard to decipher. ... Take it as buying a 24 hour ticket for unlimited travel on public transport in many other cities. Does a Myki card expire? Currently, Myki cards expire after four years.

  12. Public transport

    Public transport. Info. Melbourne's famed trams and extensive train and bus network make it easy to explore every corner of the city. Melbourne's public transport network extends from the city centre in all directions, with trains, trams and buses offering comprehensive public transport services. There's also the free City Circle Tram to help ...

  13. Transport in Melbourne

    Melbourne is a hub for intercity, intracity and regional travel. Road-based transport accounts for most trips across many parts of the city, [1] facilitated by Australia's largest freeway network. [2] Public transport, including the world's largest tram network, trains and buses, also forms a key part of the transport system.

  14. Journey planner

    Journey planner. Choose starting point. Choose destination. Your device does not support map view. We apologise for any inconvenience. Journey planner provides detailed public transport information and maps right across Victoria.

  15. Public transport

    Melbourne has one of the best public transport systems in Australia, offering a number of services including trains, buses and trams (also known as trolleys or streetcars). Metro operates Melbourne's metropolitan train network, while V/Line operates Victoria's regional public transport. Different companies operate our trams and buses.

  16. Home

    See your travel history, set Auto Top Up, protect your myki balance and receive a new card when yours expires. PTV is your go-to for all things public transport in Victoria, Australia. Plan a journey or access info on ticketing, travel, disruptions, timetables & more.

  17. A Guide to Public Transport in Melbourne

    Crown Cabs - 1300 12 13 14. Silver Top Taxis - 13 10 08. To find out more about transport in Melbourne, check out our guide to getting around. You can also learn more about public transport in Victoria via the PTV website. To help you learn the ropes, we've put together this handy guide with everything you need to know about using public ...

  18. The Best Getaways in Victoria You Can Get to on Public Transport

    The Dandenong Ranges. Situated just east of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges house a cluster of cute towns and some of the richest and densest rainforests you'll see in Victoria. It feels like a world away from the bustle of Melbourne, with its easy-going, laidback atmosphere and very friendly locals. Despite feeling like you're in a new ...

  19. Adventures by Public Transport

    The Dandenong Ranges is a beautiful park right on the edge of Melbourne! Take a walk through the lovely mountain ash forests and challenge yourself to the 1000 steps Kokoda Memorial Trail - a 3km loop with almost 300m of vertical ascent. ... The Great Otway National Park is a beautiful park to visit and is accessible by public transport. The ...

  20. The most affordable cities for transport and how much people are paying

    Melbourne: 17.9 per cent; Darwin: 17.4 per cent; Sydney: 16.6 per cent; Adelaide: 16 per cent; ... And you'll notice there's only public transport data for the capital cities. The AAA says that's ...

  21. Tickets

    You'll need either a myki or paper ticket to travel on public transport in Melbourne and regional Victoria.. You need a myki if you're travelling on: Melbourne's trains, trams and buses; V/Line trains between metropolitan Melbourne and Eaglehawk/Epsom, Seymour, Traralgon, Waurn Ponds and Wendouree

  22. Race Ready: Australia F1 Schedule and Travel Guide 2024

    Getting to Australia for international racegoers will usually require an entire day's travel. Travellers from Europe will lose around 10 hours, and from the United State 13-15 hours. ... Public transport in Melbourne is very efficient and lines linking the city centre to the circuit are available for free on Formula 1 race weekends. The most ...

  23. Dateline Philippines

    Stay up to date with the biggest stories of the day with ANC's 'Dateline Philippines' (5 March 2024)

  24. Melbourne Airport car parks cut, passenger pick-up area moved as part

    The Corporation said Naarm Way was Melbourne Airport's largest road investment since Airport Drive opened in 2015. Posted 26 Feb 2024 26 Feb 2024 Mon 26 Feb 2024 at 1:51am Share

  25. Maps

    Maps. Here you can find maps for public transport services across Melbourne and Victoria. High-contrast versions of many of our maps may be suitable for people with a vision impairment. For interactive maps of stations, stops, addresses, route numbers or line names, visit the Home page. View nearby stations and stops by searching for an address ...

  26. The Transportation Department proposes new rules for how airlines

    The Transportation Department proposes new rules for how airlines handle wheelchairs. ... air travel can be a ... "Imagine if the American public saw that the airlines broke 892 pairs of legs in a ...

  27. Public Informational Meeting Replacement Bridge Carrying Route 89 over

    Members of the public can submit comments and questions during the two-week public comment period following the meeting. Please submit comments and questions by March 27, 2024, to [email protected], 860-594-2020, or Francisco Fadul at [email protected] or 860) 594-2078.

  28. Timetables

    Use the drop down lists below to locate your timetable. Select your mode of transport. Select your line or route. Show timetable. View timetables for all public transport modes across Victoria.

  29. Air France, IAG Caution on Capacity Growth as Peak Travel Looms

    Air France-KLM and IAG SA cautioned that some capacity growth may slow this year as geopolitical tensions deter the flying public and corporate travel remains below pre-pandemic levels, suggesting ...