Melbourne Arrival Guide
(MEL – Tullamarine)

Touching down in Melbourne is the start of an unforgettable journey. As Australia’s second-largest city, Melbourne is known for its laneways, street art, coffee culture, and world-class events. But before you dive into the culture, food, and sightseeing, you’ll need to navigate the arrival process smoothly.

This guide covers everything you need to know when landing at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine – MEL):

Melbourne Airport Overview

Location: 23 km northwest of Melbourne CBD.
Terminals: T1 (Qantas domestic), T2 (international), T3 (Virgin domestic), T4 (low-cost carriers Jetstar, Rex, etc.).
International Arrivals: All international flights arrive through T2. Immigration, customs, baggage, SIM kiosks, and ground transport are located here.
Operating hours: 24/7, though some shops close late at night.

Tip: Melbourne has no direct train to the airport (yet). Transport options include SkyBus, public buses, taxis, and rideshare.

Arrivals Process

Passport Control & SmartGate

Eligible ePassport holders aged 16+ can use SmartGate kiosks for automated entry.
Others must pass through manual passport control.

Incoming Passenger Card

Distributed on the plane.
Requires you to declare food, animal products, medicines, or cash above AUD 10,000.

Customs & Biosecurity

Australia is strict on biosecurity. Commonly seized items include fruit, nuts, seeds, meat products, and untreated wooden goods.
When in doubt, declare. Officers will inspect and return items if permitted. Failing to declare can result in hefty fines.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

On arrival at T2, you’ll find Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone kiosks.

Telstra: Best coverage, especially in rural areas.
Optus: Balanced pricing and coverage.
Vodafone: Cheapest, but weaker in rural areas.

Plans start at AUD 20–40 for 28 days with data bundles.

Tip: If your phone supports it, consider an eSIM — easy to activate online.

ATMs & Currency Exchange

ATMs are located throughout arrivals (Westpac, ANZ, NAB, Commonwealth).
Currency exchange counters: Travelex in T2. Rates are usually higher than in the CBD.

Tip: Use ATMs for better exchange rates, but check your bank’s fees.

Transport from Melbourne Airport to the CBD

There is no direct train line (currently under construction). Here are your options:

SkyBus (Best Express Option)

Service: Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station (CBD).
Time: ~35 minutes (traffic dependent).
Frequency: Every 10 minutes (24/7).
Cost: AUD 22 one-way / AUD 34 return.
Tickets: Online, at kiosks, or onboard.

Public Buses (Cheapest Option)

Routes 478, 479, 482, and 901 connect the airport to local suburbs.
From there, transfer onto metro trains.
Requires a Myki card (AUD 6 card purchase + top-up).
Time: 60–90 minutes to CBD.

Taxis (Direct & Convenient)

Taxi ranks: Located outside T1, T2, and T4.
Average fare to CBD: AUD 55–70 (metered, depends on traffic).
Travel time: 35–50 minutes.
Reputable companies:
- 13CABS ( 13 2227)
- Silver Top Taxis ( 13 1008)
- Maxi Taxi Melbourne ( 13 6294)

Rideshare (Popular Option)

Pickup zones: Level 2 of the T2 car park, follow “Rideshare” signage.
Providers: Uber, Ola, DiDi.
Cost: AUD 45–65 to CBD (varies by demand & time of day).
Travel time: 35–50 minutes.

Using Melbourne’s Public Transport (Myki Card)

To travel around Melbourne, you’ll need a Myki card.

Cost: AUD 6 for the card + credit top-up.
Where to buy: Airport SkyBus booths, 7-Eleven, train stations.
Covers: Trams, trains, buses.

Bonus: Melbourne CBD has a Free Tram Zone — no ticket required within city centre.

Accommodation Options

Near the Airport

Budget: Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport.
Premium: PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport (walking distance to terminals).

In the City (CBD)

Budget: Space Hotel, United Backpackers.
Mid-Range: Oaks Melbourne on Market Hotel, Adina Apartments.
Premium: Crown Towers, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.

City Essentials for First-Timers

Climate: Melbourne is famous for “four seasons in a day.” Carry a jacket year-round.
Safety: Melbourne is generally safe, but be alert in nightlife districts.
Emergency Number: Dial 000 (police, fire, ambulance).
Culture: No tipping required, though rounding up bills is common.

Special Notes for Travellers

Cruise connections: Station Pier, Port Melbourne (tram route 109 links pier to CBD).
Domestic transfers: Free shuttle between T1–T3–T4. T4 is a longer walk from T2.
Events calendar: Melbourne hosts the Australian Open (tennis), Formula 1 Grand Prix, and Spring Racing Carnival.

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Melbourne

Once you’ve settled in, here are Melbourne’s must-see attractions:

Federation Square – Cultural hub with museums, art, and live events.
Flinders Street Station – Iconic landmark and transport hub.
Royal Botanic Gardens – Beautiful gardens, perfect for a picnic.
Queen Victoria Market – Historic food and craft market.
Eureka Skydeck – 88th floor viewing platform with panoramic views.
Melbourne Zoo – Australia’s oldest zoo, home to 320+ species.
Great Ocean Road (Day Trip) – World-famous coastal drive, see the Twelve Apostles.
Yarra River & Southbank – Dining, nightlife, and entertainment by the water.
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – Watch Aussie Rules Football or cricket.
Laneways & Street Art – Hosier Lane and Degraves Street for graffiti, cafés, and hidden bars.

Quick Tips for Smooth Arrival

Declare everything at customs.
Carry a printed/digital copy of your visa grant.
Save local taxi/rideshare numbers on your phone.
Buy a Myki card early for easy travel.
Check the weather forecast — and pack layers.

Melbourne is one of the world’s most liveable cities, and with good preparation, your arrival will be seamless. Whether you hop on the SkyBus, grab a rideshare, or take a taxi, you’ll reach the CBD in less than an hour. Once you’re there, dive into the laneways, street art, cafés, and top attractions that make Melbourne unique.

From airport logistics to tourist highlights, this guide ensures you’re ready to make the most of your stay.

Melbourne Arrival Guide (MEL – Tullamarine)