Conquering Melbourne: A Hitchhiker's Guide to Escaping Tullamarine Airport (Without a Spaceship)
So you've touched down in Melbourne, the land of flat whites, lane-way bars, and eccentric trams. But before you can unleash your inner foodie and tram-spotting champion, you gotta get from Tullamarine Airport to the heart of the city, the CBD (Central Business District). Fear not, intrepid traveller, for this guide will be your trusty towel... well, maybe not a towel, but a darn good guide nonetheless!
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| How Do I Get From Tullamarine To Melbourne Cbd |
The Public Transport Thrill Ride
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Melbourne boasts a cracking public transport system, and getting into the city from Tullamarine is a breeze. Here's your lowdown on the most popular options:
Skybus: The Speedy Gonzales - This bright red bus zooms you straight to Southern Cross Station in the CBD, taking around 20 minutes. Perfect if you're short on time and patience for chit-chat (or jet-lagged and crave air-conditioned comfort).
Trains, Trams, and Buses: The Adventurer's Choice - Feeling like a maverick? This option involves a tram or bus ride (the 901 or 959 SkyBus route) to a train station, followed by a scenic (or not-so-scenic, depending on traffic) train ride into Flinders Street Station. It's a touch slower than Skybus, but hey, it's an adventure, right? Just be sure to pack your Myki card (Melbourne's metrocard) for hassle-free swiping.
Taxis: The Plush Ride (with a Price Tag)
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
If you're travelling with a crew or simply crave door-to-door service, taxis are your best bet. You'll find them lined up outside all terminals, ready to whisk you away to your destination. The ride should take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, but be prepared for a bit of a dent in your wallet.
Rental Cars: For the Steering Wheel Warriors
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
Got a need for speed (or just a desperate desire to explore the Great Ocean Road at your own pace)? Rental cars are available at the airport. But before you unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton, be aware that Melbourne CBD can get a bit hectic with traffic, and parking can be a nightmare (and expensive!).
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
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Bonus Round: The Uber Option
Feeling fancy? You can always hail an Uber from the airport. Just be sure to check the app for surge pricing before you tap "confirm."
Important Note: No matter which mode of transport you choose, be sure to factor in baggage claim and wait times when figuring out how long it'll take to reach the CBD.
How ToFAQs:
How to catch the Skybus? Follow the signs for Skybus at the airport terminals. They operate 24/7, so no worries about late-night arrivals.
How to buy a Myki card? Myki cards can be purchased at vending machines at train stations and some convenience stores.
How much does a taxi cost? The fare can vary depending on traffic and distance, but expect it to be around $70 AUD.
How long does it take to get to the CBD by train? The train journey itself is around 25 minutes, but add in travel time to the station and waiting times, and it could be closer to an hour.
How do I hail an Uber? Download the Uber app on your smartphone and follow the in-app instructions.
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