Getting around Melbourne

Getting around Melbourne is easy, thanks to an integrated network of trains, trams and buses. Tickets allowing travel across all services can be purchased from vending machines at train stations, on trams or buses, or pre-purchased at selected shops like newsagents.

Melbourne’s efficient train system covers city and suburban destinations. Flinders Street Station, on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets, is the hub of Melbourne’s train system, and all metropolitan trains begin or end their journey there. The city’s famous trams travel along most of Melbourne’s major thoroughfares, extending out to about 15 kilometres into the suburbs. Visitors can also use the burgundy and gold City Circle Tram, which does a free 30-minute circuit around the city centre, linking major attractions and other transport routes. Melbourne’s bus network links with trains and trams, as well as services destinations overlooked by either train or tram.

Other ways of getting around include taxis, which are numerous and easy to spot (they are all eye-catching yellow), boat (an abundance of vessels cruise up and down the Yarra River, travelling to destinations like Williamstown) and cycling (Melbourne has an extensive trail and road network). Laid out in an elementary grid pattern, the city centre is easy to navigate on foot, while a multitude of tour operators makes sightseeing in Melbourne a breeze.

For public transport and timetable information, contact Metlink on 131 638 or visit www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au. To buy Metcards (tickets) online, visit the Metlink website.

For more information about driving around Melbourne and Victoria, visit the VicRoads website.

	Trains Victoria has a fast, efficient and user-friendly train system, with coverage to most destinations and frequent services. Flinders Street Station, on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets, is the hub of Melbourne’s train system, and all trains begin or end their journey there. Read More Information
	Trams Melbourne’s trams and light rail service give the city a distinctive character and provide a scenic way to explore the city and inner suburbs like Richmond, St Kilda and South Yarra.  Ride the free City Circle tram for a great insight into the city. The distinctive burgundy and gold City Circle tram provides a free and convenient way to move around the city and passes a number of sights and attractions. Read More Information
	Buses A bus will get you to places trams and trains don't go. Use the same tickets as for trams and trains and see Melbourne from the roads. The only downside with buses is that they tend to take longer, often getting bunched up in traffic during peak periods. The NightRider is an after midnight bus service that runs to Melbourne’s outer suburbs on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Onboard mobile phones are available so you can call a taxi or a friend to collect you from a bus stop. Read More Information
	Drive Jump in a car and see the city at your own pace! Melbourne is an easy city to drive in due to its wide thoroughfares and simple grid city plan. As well, Melbourne’s three major freeways: the West Gate, the Monash and the Tullamarine; are conveniently linked by CityLink, a non-stop expressway. Read More Information
	Taxis Get yourself around in one of Melbourne's numerous easy-to-spot yellow taxis – you may end up with an impromptu tour guide with a story to tell! Cabs often wait in designated ranks that are clearly signposted at central locations like major hotels in the CBD, or busy spots such as Flinders Street Station. You can also hail a taxi in the street – if the rooftop light is illuminated, it means the taxi is available for hire – or book a taxi by telephone. Read More Information
	City Link CityLink is a toll road expressway that links Melbourne’s three major freeways: the West Gate, the Monash and the Tullamarine. Make sure you remember to purchase a CityLink pass - these can be purchases prior to or within 24 hours of using City Link. Read More Information
	Ferry Take the ferry for a scenic and convenient way around town! Regular ferry services across the bay from Southbank and St Kilda to Williamstown are a scenic and convenient way to travel. To get around on the Yarra, jump on the Yarra River Shuttle which will get you from Federation Square all the way around to NewQuay. Read More Information