If you’re flying into Melbourne, your first question is usually: how to get from Melbourne Airport to the city quickly and without stress. Also known as Tullamarine, Melbourne Airport (MEL) is the city’s main international and domestic hub. Located around 23 kilometres north-west of the CBD, travel time to the city can vary from 20 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and your chosen transport option.

So, how do you get from Melbourne Airport to the city? This guide will walk you through every option, from budget-friendly public transport to convenient private transfers, with detailed pros and cons so you can pick what’s best for your trip.

Melbourne’s main airports

Melbourne is home to four airports, but most international and domestic visitors will be arriving at:

• Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine): The main gateway for international arrivals and domestic flights.
• Avalon Airport: Located near Geelong, about 50km south-west of Melbourne. Mainly services Jetstar flights and hosts the International Air Show.
• Essendon Fields Airport: Primarily corporate jets, freight and emergency services.
• Moorabbin Airport: A hub for charters, flight training and regional services.

For the purpose of this guide, we’ll focus on how to get from Tullamarine (Melbourne Airport) to the CBD, since that’s where most travellers land.

Option 1: SkyBus

SkyBus is a go-to option for travellers looking for an easy and affordable way to get into the city. It runs from Melbourne Airport straight to Southern Cross Station in the CBD, taking about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run every 10 to 15 minutes, all day and night, even on holidays, so you’ll never be waiting long. Tickets cost around $22 one way for adults, with return and family discounts available if you’re planning ahead.

Pros:

• Affordable compared to taxis.
• Direct, with no stops until the city.
• Free Wi-Fi and luggage storage included.

Cons:

• Drops you at Southern Cross Station only. You’ll need to transfer to trams, trains or rideshare for your final destination.
• Can be crowded during peak flight times.

Good to know: If you’re arriving on a late-night international flight, SkyBus is a reliable option because it runs 24/7, unlike some public transport services.

Option 2: Taxi

For door-to-door convenience, taxis are a straightforward and comfortable choice for getting from Melbourne Airport to the city. The trip usually takes around 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs between $60 and $75 to the CBD. Fares may be slightly higher late at night or if toll roads and extra luggage are involved.

Pros:

• Direct to your hotel or destination.
• Available 24/7 right outside the terminals.
• No need to book in advance.

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially during heavy traffic.
• Wait times can be long at peak periods.

Good to know: If you’re travelling with the family and a few too many suitcases, a taxi can be well worth it. There’s no need to juggle bags on public transport when you can head straight to your accommodation.

Option 3: Rideshare (Uber, Ola, DiDi)

Rideshares are becoming a popular choice for travellers who like knowing the cost upfront and booking easily through an app. You can grab a ride from the designated rideshare zones at Terminals 1, 2 or 3, and the trip to the CBD usually takes around 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay about $55 to $70 for an UberX, with higher fares for premium vehicles.

Pros:

• Price estimate upfront.
• Easy to order via app once you clear customs.
• Often cheaper than taxis.

Cons:

• Prices surge during peak hours.
• Pickup zones may be confusing for first-time travellers.

Option 4: Private airport transfers

Private transfers offer the most comfortable and stress-free way to get from Melbourne Airport to the city. The trip typically takes around 25 to 40 minutes. Costs can vary widely, from about $80 for a standard sedan to $150 or more for luxury vehicles or larger vans.

Pros:

• Pre-booked, so your driver meets you at arrivals.
• Door-to-door service.
• Ideal for groups, corporate travellers or those who prioritise comfort.
• Fixed price with no hidden fees.

Cons:

• More expensive than public transport options.

For instance: After a long-haul flight, a corporate traveller heading straight to meetings can rely on a chauffeured private transfer for a comfortable, stress-free ride.

Option 5: Public bus

For budget-conscious travellers, local public buses are an easy and affordable way to get from Melbourne Airport to nearby train stations and suburbs. For instance, you could hop on Bus 901 to Broadmeadows Station and then jump on a train into the CBD. The whole trip usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes, and it’ll set you back around $4.60 with a Myki card.

Pros:

• Cheapest option available.
• Useful if you’re staying in the suburbs en route rather than the CBD.

Cons:

• Longer and less convenient, especially with luggage.
• Limited late-night services.

For instance: A backpacker with light luggage and no time pressure may choose the $4.60 bus + train combo instead of paying $20–$70 for faster options.

Option 6: Driving yourself

If you like having your own wheels, you can hire a car or drive your own vehicle from Melbourne Airport. The trip to the city usually takes around 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The airport has both short and long-term parking options, with daily rates ranging from about $20 to $50.

Pros:

• Flexibility to explore beyond the CBD.
• Perfect for families or travellers with multiple stops.

Cons:

• Parking fees can be expensive.
• Driving in Melbourne CBD can be challenging due to trams and congestion.

What about the Melbourne airport rail link?

One question both locals and visitors keep asking is: when will Melbourne finally get a train to the airport? 

The good news is that construction on the Melbourne Airport Rail Link is set to kick off in 2026. Once it’s finished, travellers will have a direct rail service between Tullamarine and the city. Until then, if you’re wondering, ‘how do I get from Tullamarine airport to Melbourne city’, the options above are still your best bet for getting to and from the airport.

Comparing options at a glance

So, how do you get from Melbourne airport to the city? It really comes down to what matters most to you. If you want something quick and budget-friendly, SkyBus is a solid pick. If convenience is your top priority, taxis and rideshares make things easy. And if you’re after total comfort and zero stress, private transfers are hard to beat.

The great thing is, Melbourne’s got an option for every kind of traveller, whether you’re a backpacker or a business executive. Just make sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re landing late or travelling with a group.

When you’re ready, Bark makes it easy to connect with trusted airport transfer providers across Melbourne so you can book with confidence and start your trip the right way.