Practical information for visiting Melbourne: airport transport options, getting around on trams and trains, visa requirements, money and tipping, safety advice, and answers to the most common questions from first-time visitors to Australia’s cultural capital.
Melbourne Airport and Arrival Information
Melbourne Airport (MEL, also called Tullamarine) is 23km northwest of the CBD, a 30-40 minute drive. The SkyBus runs express to Southern Cross Station every 10-15 minutes, 24 hours: AUD 22 one-way, AUD 36 return (online), journey time 30-40 minutes. At Southern Cross, you can transfer to free CBD trams or regional trains.
A taxi to the CBD costs AUD 60-80 and takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Uber costs AUD 50-70. There is no train line to the airport (a rail link is under construction, expected by 2029). Avoid the airport parking taxis that charge flat rates up to AUD 80. Airport ATMs dispense AUD. SIM cards from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone are sold at arrivals: tourist packs with 30-60GB data cost AUD 30-60 for 28 days.
Getting Around Melbourne with Myki Cards
Melbourne’s public transport uses the Myki smart card system. A Myki card costs AUD 6 (non-refundable) from 7-Eleven stores, train stations, and SkyBus terminals. The daily fare cap is AUD 10.60 for full-fare adults (AUD 5.30 concession). The free tram zone covers the CBD grid (bounded by Flinders, Spring, La Trobe, and Spencer Streets plus Victoria Harbour in Docklands).
You don’t need to touch on within the free zone, but you must touch on if your journey starts or ends outside it. Trams are the main CBD transport. Trains connect the suburbs. The City Loop is an underground rail loop serving five CBD stations. Regional V/Line trains to the Great Ocean Road, Ballarat, and Bendigo depart from Southern Cross Station.
Melbourne Visa Information for Tourists
Australia requires a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for all foreign visitors. Citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many other countries can apply for an ETA (subclass 601) via the Australian ETA app. Cost: AUD 20. Processing is usually instant but can take up to 48 hours.
The ETA is valid for 12 months with stays up to 3 months per visit. Tourist visas (subclass 600) are for nationalities not eligible for ETA and cost AUD 195. Apply through the Department of Home Affairs website (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au). Overstaying is taken seriously: it can result in detention and a 3-year re-entry ban. Always carry your passport or a copy when out, though police checks on tourists are rare.
Money and Tipping in Melbourne
Currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). As of early 2025, 1 USD equals approximately 1.55 AUD. Melbourne is largely cashless: contactless payments (card/phone) are accepted everywhere including market stalls. ATMs charge AUD 2.50-3.00 per withdrawal for foreign cards. Tipping is not required or expected in Australia.
In high-end restaurants (fine dining with table service), leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but never mandatory. Cafe counter service does not expect tips. Rounding up a taxi fare to the nearest dollar is common. Hotel porters: AUD 2-5 per bag if you wish. The minimum wage in Australia is AUD 23.23 per hour, so workers don’t depend on tips. Taxes (GST of 10%) are always included in displayed prices.
Safety and Health in Melbourne
Melbourne is a safe city by global standards. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main risks are: (1) petty theft, especially around Flinders Street Station and on crowded trams (keep bags zipped and forward-facing), (2) weekend alcohol-related fights on King Street and in certain nightclub zones after 2:00 AM, and (3) beach safety at St Kilda and Port Phillip Bay (swim between the flags, rips can occur).
The sun is intense: UV regularly hits 10-13 in summer. Wear SPF50+ sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses even on cloudy days. Tap water is safe to drink and excellent quality. Major hospitals with 24-hour emergency departments: Royal Melbourne Hospital (Parkville) and The Alfred (Prahran). Ambulance cover is not free: call 000 in an emergency but be aware that ambulance transport costs AUD 500+ without insurance. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential.
Suggested Hotels in Melbourne
The Langham Melbourne
Five-star riverside luxury on Southbank Promenade with a day spa, indoor pool with Yarra views, and the acclaimed Melba Restaurant. Best for couples and luxury travelers who want five-star service within a 5-minute walk of the CBD grid. Check rates and availability
QT Melbourne
A design-forward mid-range hotel on Russell Street with industrial-chic rooms, a popular rooftop bar, and the Pascale Bar and Grill on the ground floor. Best for style-conscious travelers who appreciate boutique design and a central CBD location. Check rates and availability
Space Hotel
A budget hybrid on Russell Street offering dorm beds from AUD 35 and private rooms, with a rooftop hot tub, cinema room, and full kitchen facilities. Best for backpackers and budget solo travelers who want hostel atmosphere with hotel-quality amenities. Check rates and availability
Frequently Asked Questions About Melbourne
How many days should I spend in Melbourne?
Four days is the minimum for the CBD, laneways, and one day trip (Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley). Five to seven days allows two day trips plus deeper neighborhood exploration. For event visitors (Australian Open, F1 Grand Prix), budget at least the event duration plus one buffer day.
What is the best area to stay in Melbourne for first-time visitors?
The CBD, specifically the east end near Flinders Lane and Spring Street. You’re within the free tram zone, walking distance to laneways, Federation Square, and the river, with excellent restaurant density. See our Melbourne neighborhoods guide for area comparisons.
Do I need a car in Melbourne?
No. The CBD is walkable and covered by the free tram zone. Trams and trains reach all inner suburbs. Parking in the CBD costs AUD 10-25 per hour. Only rent a car for day trips (Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula). For the Great Ocean Road specifically, a car gives you flexibility that tours can’t match.
Is the weather really that changeable in Melbourne?
Yes. The “four seasons in one day” reputation is accurate, especially in spring and summer. A 25°C sunny morning can become a 14°C rainy afternoon with an hour’s notice. Always carry a light jacket and check the Bureau of Meteorology app (BOM) in the morning. Our Melbourne weather by month guide has detailed temperature and rainfall data by season.
What is the best way to see wildlife near Melbourne?
Phillip Island Penguin Parade for penguins (90 minutes southeast). Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley for kangaroos, koalas, platypus, and Tasmanian devils in a bushland setting (AUD 42 adults, 1 hour east). Moonlit Sanctuary on the Mornington Peninsula for nighttime tours with endangered species (AUD 28 adults, 1 hour south).
For kangaroos in the wild, the best free option is Westerfolds Park in Templestowe at dawn or dusk. See our things to do in Melbourne guide for more wildlife encounters.
For climate data to plan your trip timing, see our Melbourne weather by month guide. For the best months to visit for specific events, read our best time to visit Melbourne article.
