Melbourne Airport Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Melbourne Airport (MEL  ^IATA), commonly known as Tullamarine Airport, is Victoria's largest and busiest airport, about 23 km northwest of Melbourne’s CBD in the suburb of Melbourne Airport. As the main international and domestic gateway to Melbourne, it is a key hub for Qantas and other major Australian airlines. With direct flights to destinations across Australia and globally—including one of the busiest air routes to Sydney—Melbourne Airport serves as the primary entry point for most visitors to the region. Modern facilities and extensive connectivity make it one of the most accessible and efficient airports in Australia.

Melbourne Airport is Victoria’s largest airport and operates 24/7 without a curfew, unlike some other major Australian airports, allowing flexibility for both travellers and airlines. Opened in 1970 to replace Essendon Airport, it quickly became a major gateway to Australia and remains one of the nation’s busiest airports. The terminal layout enables easy access by foot between terminals, allowing seamless connections between international and domestic flights within the same complex. This setup is a notable advantage compared to airports such as Perth, where international and domestic terminals are further apart.

• Melbourne Airport website

Melbourne Airport comprises four terminals, each serving distinct functions:

• T1 (North Terminal): Dedicated to Qantas domestic flights.
• T2 (International Terminal): Handles all international flights.
• T3 (South Terminal): Serves Virgin Australia domestic flights.
• T4 (Budget Airlines Terminal): Accommodates Jetstar and REX Regional Express domestic flights.

The airport serves all Australian capital cities and numerous regional centres, including Cairns, the Gold Coast, Launceston, and Uluru, as well as smaller towns like Albury, King Island, and Mildura. International flights connect Melbourne to destinations across Southeast Asia, China, Japan, the United States, Dubai, and London. Melbourne is also one of the few Australian airports where both Qantas and Emirates operate the Airbus A380 on routes to Los Angeles, Dubai and Singapore.

The Sydney to Melbourne route is particularly busy, with flights departing at frequent intervals—sometimes as often as every 10 to 15 minutes during peak periods, highlighting the route’s popularity and convenience for business and leisure travellers alike.

• Check-in and Security: Each terminal has its own dedicated check-in counters and security checkpoints. International travellers departing from T2 should allow extra time, as queues can build up during peak travel hours.
• Terminal access: T1, T2, and T3 are housed within a single complex, enabling easy access between them before passing through security, while T4 is a short walk away. Keep in mind that inter-terminal access is limited once inside the secure area.

• Baggage claim: Domestic flights have baggage claim areas within their respective terminals, while international arrivals claim baggage in T2. The process is usually efficient, although delays may occur during peak hours.
• Immigration and Customs: International arrivals clear immigration in T2, which features ePassport gates for eligible passport holders, helping streamline entry for many travellers. Customs processing is generally straightforward, though peak times may see slight delays.

Melbourne Airport is well-served by multiple ground transportation options, though it lacks direct train service (an airport line is under construction and will open in 2029). The most common and convenient options are SkyBus, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and DiDi. For more affordable options, public buses and car rentals are also available.

Skybus, ☏ +61 3 9670 7992, offers the quickest and most frequent service to and from the airport, running 24/7 between Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station in the CBD. The shuttle operates directly via the freeway, with a trip duration of 20-40 minutes (depending on traffic).

• Pick-up points: Outside Virgin Australia (T3) and Qantas (T1) terminals, approximately 50 m from T2, and T4 outside baggage claim.
• Tickets: $24 one-way, $40 return for adults; $4/6 for children (ages 4-14), $19/32 for seniors (Nov 2024). Tickets can be purchased online, at ticket booths, or from electronic machines at pick-up points.
• Frequency: Every 10 minutes from 5;30AM to 11PM; every 30 minutes from 1AM to 4AM.
• Hotel transfer: SkyBus offers free hotel drop-off services within the CBD during the day (book in advance).

• Additional routes: Services to St Kilda, Dandenong, and Geelong are available via SkyBus, with limited schedules for these routes. For destinations outside the CBD, consider the Peninsula Express or Eastern Express.
• Free Wi-Fi: SkyBus provides free Wi-Fi on board. You can access it by providing your personal details, a trade-off for an internet connection during the ride.

Public buses are a more budget-friendly option for travellers who don't mind a longer journey. The Route 901 bus departs from Terminal 4 (under the short-term car park) and travels to Broadmeadows Station, where you can transfer to a train to the city.

• Travel time: 20 minutes by bus to Broadmeadows, followed by around 40 minutes by train to the city.
• Fare: $5.30 for a single trip (you’ll need a Myki smartcard, available at the SkyBus kiosk in Terminal 3 or from vending machines).
• Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes, 5AM to midnight.
• Alternative routes: Route 478/479 serves Airport West, where you can transfer to the Route 59 tram to the city (approximately 50 minutes).
• Myki: This public transport is very economical, as there's a daily fare cap of $10.60 (weekends $7.20).

Taxis are readily available at dedicated ranks outside each terminal. The journey to the Melbourne CBD takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately $75. Make sure to use the official taxi ranks and avoid anyone soliciting fares inside the terminal, as this is illegal. Taxi ranks are easy to find outside all terminals, and the journey cost is fixed, but rates may vary slightly based on traffic.

Uber and DiDi operate from designated pick-up areas adjacent to the public car park. Simply request a ride via the app, and follow the signs to the pick-up zone. An airport access fee will be added to your fare.

• Pick-up zones: Clearly marked signs will guide you to the designated areas.

For those driving themselves to the airport, Melbourne Airport is easily accessible via the Tullamarine Freeway and the CityLink toll road.

• Driving your own car: The airport is about 23 km north of Melbourne’s CBD, with the drive typically taking around 30 minutes. If you use CityLink, expect to pay a toll, which can be avoided if you take the Tullamarine Freeway. Toll roads are clearly marked, and cameras scan your number plate for toll charges. Note that if you choose to take the toll road, the charge will be billed to your car rental agency or you can pay for it directly through the Tulla Pass, which costs $5.25 for a single trip. For frequent drivers, there are multi-trip passes available.
• Parking: Melbourne Airport offers a range of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and valet services. The Short-Term Parking is close to the terminals and is convenient for quick drop-offs and pick-ups. Long-Term Parking is more economical for those leaving their car for a longer period, with a free shuttle service to the terminals. There are also Premium Parking spaces available for those looking for closer proximity to the terminals. Parking fees vary depending on the length of stay, with Hourly Parking starting at around $6 for 30 minutes and Long-Term Parking available for more affordable daily rates.

All of these agencies have desks in the domestic terminals.

• Avis, ☏ +61 3 9338 1800. 
• Budget, ☏ +61 3 9241 6366. 
• Europcar, ☏ +61 3 9241 6800. 
• Hertz, ☏ +61 3 9338 4044. 
• Thrifty, ☏ +61 3 9241 6100. 
• Sixt, ☏ +61 3 9241 6100. 

Car rental is a great option for those who plan to explore Melbourne and its surroundings. However, keep in mind the cost of tolls and parking, as well as potential traffic delays. All rental agencies offer options to pay for tolls through their systems or you can purchase a Tulla Pass in advance to avoid any extra fees.

For more information on getting around Melbourne, check out the Melbourne: Get around section.

Melbourne Airport is compact and easy to navigate on foot, making it one of the more user-friendly airports in Australia. There are no trains, shuttles, or other forms of transport within the airport itself, so all movement between terminals and facilities is done on foot.

• Walking distances: The main terminals (Terminals 1 to 3) are within the same building complex. It takes approximately 10 minutes to walk from one end of the main terminal complex (T1) to the other (T3). To reach Terminal 4, it’s an additional 10-minute walk.
• Connecting between terminals: If you’re connecting between domestic flights, you can walk directly between T1, T2, and T3 without needing to exit security. However, if you're connecting between international (T2) and domestic (T1, T3), you will need to exit security and re-enter, which adds extra time to your journey.
• Terminals layout: The terminals are laid out in a straight line, which makes navigating the airport easy, but there may be long stretches of walking, particularly if you’re traveling between T1/T3 and T4, which is located further away. Be sure to allow sufficient time if you're transferring between terminals.
• Access to services: There are clear signs throughout the airport to guide you to the various services, such as baggage claim, toilets, and check-in counters. Walkways are mostly flat, but there may be occasional escalators or lifts, particularly between different levels in Terminal 4.
• Long stretches of walking: While the terminals are relatively close together, if you're heading from Terminal 1 or 3 to Terminal 4, be prepared for a bit of a longer walk, as Terminal 4 is set apart. Additionally, the walk between Terminals 1-3 and the SkyBus terminal (located outside T3) can be a bit longer, especially when carrying luggage.

Melbourne Airport’s layout is one of the most convenient in Australia for those with tight connection times, with no need for inter-terminal transport. This stands in contrast to other Australian airports like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, where passengers must often rely on buses or trains to change terminals.

Melbourne Airport offers a range of amenities to make your wait more comfortable and enjoyable, from lounges to quiet corners for relaxation and even a few spots for plane spotting. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to unwind or activities to keep yourself entertained, there’s plenty to explore between flights.

• Qantas Club and Qantas Domestic Business Lounge, to the right after passing through security, are available for eligible passengers and offer a comfortable space to relax, enjoy food and drinks, and catch up on work before your flight.

This terminal hosts a variety of lounges for international travellers, including:

• Qantas First Class Lounge
• Qantas Business Lounge
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Cathay Pacific First and Business Class Lounge
• Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge
• Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge
• United Club

For those without access to airline-specific lounges, there are also paid options:

• American Express Lounge
• Plaza Premium Lounge

• Virgin Australia Lounge is located landside. Access is available for eligible flyers, but you’ll need to clear security again after leaving the lounge.

• REX Lounge is available for eligible passengers flying with REX Airlines.

• Quiet corners: If you need a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the airport, there are quieter spots in each terminal where you can relax. Look for seating areas away from the main traffic flow in terminals.
• Plane spotting: For aviation enthusiasts or those just looking to pass the time, there are some great spots for plane spotting. Head to Terminal 2, where you’ll have good views of the tarmac through the windows. You can also grab a seat near the windows in Terminal 1 for views of aircraft movements.
• Gardens and open spaces: Some areas around the terminals feature small garden spaces and open seating areas where you can enjoy a break in a more serene setting.

• Kids’ play areas: There are designated play areas in the terminals to keep younger passengers entertained. These areas are equipped with toys, interactive games, and comfortable seating for parents to supervise.
• Family-friendly amenities: Melbourne Airport also offers family rooms with changing facilities, making it easier for families to take care of their needs while waiting for a flight.

• Massage chairs: Throughout the airport, you’ll find massage chairs available in certain areas, which provide an opportunity to relax and unwind between flights.
• Spas: If you're looking for a more indulgent experience, there are spas in the terminals offering a range of services, from massages to facials, perfect for refreshing before or after your flight.

Melbourne Airport offers a variety of food and beverage options to suit different tastes and needs, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee before your flight, a hearty meal, or something a bit more local, you'll find plenty of choices throughout the terminals.

• Food court & bar: After passing through security, Terminal 1 features a food court and bar with a selection of fast food and casual dining options. You'll find familiar favourites like Hudsons Coffee for a caffeine fix, and Oporto for fast, fresh grilled chicken meals. For a sit-down experience, check out The Coffee Emporium, which offers gourmet coffee, sandwiches, and light meals.
• Before Security: There are also a few basic food options before security, but they are limited in variety, offering snacks and drinks. The food court is a central hub in Terminal 1, but if you have time, try heading to Hudsons Coffee for a Melbourne-style brew.

• Pre-Security: If you're waiting before security, there are a few food and drink spots, including cafes like Cafe Vue, serving artisan coffee and pastries, and a small range of quick snacks at newsagents and convenience stores.
• Post-Security: After you’ve cleared security, Terminal 2 offers a wider range of dining options. For something local, head to St. Ali for Melbourne’s famous specialty coffee, served with a selection of pastries and light bites. The Kitchen by Mike offers fresh, seasonal meals with an Australian twist, perfect for a sit-down meal or a takeaway option if you're pressed for time.

Late-night dining: If you're passing through late at night, options in Terminal 2 are more limited, but St. Ali and a few cafes remain open, serving coffee and light meals until later hours. Otherwise, check out Hudsons Coffee, which opens early and closes late, providing caffeine all day long.

• Pre-Security: There are some convenience stores and cafes before security, but nothing too extravagant. For a quick bite, Hudsons Coffee offers great coffee and quick snacks, a good choice if you need to fuel up before your flight.
• Post-Security: After security, food options include Bar Roma, offering Italian-inspired dishes such as pizza, pasta, and antipasti. It's a great spot if you’re after something substantial before boarding. For lighter fare, Soul Origin provides fresh salads, wraps, and coffee, ideal for a healthier snack on the go.

While options are generally quick and easy, Bar Roma stands out for a more substantial meal if you have time to sit and relax before your flight.

• Pre-Security: There are a few cafes and kiosks offering quick snacks and drinks. It's best to grab something light if you’re waiting before check-in or after security.
• Post-Security: Once past security, dining options are limited but include Mad Mex, serving Mexican-inspired fast food with burritos, tacos, and fresh sides. You can also grab a coffee at The Coffee Emporium or a quick bite at Sushi Train for fresh sushi.

There are fewer sit-down meal options in Terminal 4, so Mad Mex and Sushi Train are great for a quick, satisfying meal.

Melbourne Airport has a few places that stay open later or are available 24/7, which can be useful for late-night travellers. Hudsons Coffee in both Terminals 1 and 2 operates long hours and is the go-to for coffee and snacks around the clock. In Terminal 2, St. Ali also stays open late, offering coffee and lighter meals even after most restaurants have closed.

If you're looking for more substantial food during the night, your options might be limited, but convenience stores are open 24 hours, where you can pick up snacks and drinks.

• Coffee: Melbourne is known for its coffee culture, and you’ll find some great spots at the airport to try a local brew. Don’t miss the opportunity to grab a cup at St. Ali (Terminal 2), a well-loved Melbourne coffee roaster, or Soul Origin in Terminal 3 for a more casual, healthy option alongside your coffee.
• Fresh and seasonal meals: If you’re looking for something more substantial, The Kitchen by Mike in Terminal 2 offers fresh, seasonal meals with an Australian influence, ideal for those wanting to sample some local flavours before their flight.

Melbourne Airport offers a range of shopping options, catering to both last-minute travel necessities and souvenirs. Whether you need to pick up a quick snack, book, or local specialty, there are plenty of places to shop.

There's a large duty-free store in Terminal 2 (International) just after passport control, easily accessible along the path to the gates. It offers a wide range of products, including perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and luxury goods tax-free for those flying internationally.

You can find a selection of stores selling newspapers, magazines, books, snacks, and travel essentials across all terminals.

• Terminal 1 (Domestic): Includes several small kiosks and stores offering snacks, magazines, and quick-serve food.
• Terminal 3 (Domestic): More food and beverage options, as well as stores selling travel accessories and books.
• Terminal 4 (Domestic): A variety of shops for magazines, snacks, and essential travel items.

There are ATMs in all terminals, and currency exchange services are available in Terminal 2 (International).

Melbourne Airport offers shops with a selection of souvenirs and local specialties. These include Melbourne-themed gifts, Australian wines, gourmet chocolates, and Aboriginal art pieces.

Melbourne Airport offers free and paid Wi-Fi, phone services, and charging stations.

Free Wi-Fi is available in all terminals at Melbourne Airport. You can connect to the "Airport free Wi-Fi" or "Melbourne Airport" networks in Terminals 2-4, and Qantas provides complimentary Wi-Fi in Terminal 1. The Wi-Fi service is fast and easy to access. If you need more bandwidth, paid options are available as well.

There are charging stations throughout all terminals. Look for free charging points near seating areas, gates, and in lounges. Additionally, wall outlets are available at various locations in the terminals.

There are public phones in all terminals, where you can make local and international calls. Credit cards or phone cards are required to make calls. Mobile phone SIM cards and mobile services are also available for purchase at various kiosks and stores within the terminal.

Postal services are available for mailing postcards, letters, or packages. Look for Australia Post mailboxes in the terminals for sending mail.

Melbourne Airport offers a range of services including assistance with luggage, places to relax, or medical services.

• Luggage storage: Luggage storage is available at Terminal 2, for short or long-term periods.

• Lost and found: If you misplace any belongings, head to the Lost Property counter in Terminal 2. You can also contact the airport’s lost and found services online or via phone to inquire about lost items.

• Chapels and quiet spaces: There is a Multi-faith Chapel in Terminal 2 that provides a quiet area for reflection and prayer. The chapel is open to all travellers and is a serene place to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport.

• Information desks: Throughout the airport, including Terminals 1, 2, and 3, where staff can assist with flight information, directions, and general inquiries. Look for the distinctive "Information" signage near the entrances to each terminal.

• Showers: Shower facilities are available at the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 2 and can be used by lounge guests or those who purchase access for a small fee.

• Family and companion toilets: Family and companion toilets, equipped with changing tables, are available throughout the airport in all terminals.

• Breastfeeding racilities: Dedicated breastfeeding rooms are available in Terminals 2 and 4.

• Pet relief areas: are available in Terminal 1 and Terminal 4.

• Pharmacies and clinics: Pharmacies are located in Terminals 2 and 3, offering a range of health and travel-related items, including medications, toiletries, and health essentials. Additionally, medical services are available in Terminal 2, with clinics offering basic health support and first-aid services.

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Hotels near Melbourne Airport

• -37.67165144.853461 Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport, 10-14 Centre Road, ☏ +61 3 9933 5111, [email protected]. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. This hotel is a convenient option a short distance from the terminals. It offers comfortable rooms and is ideal for those with early or late flights. From $200. (updated Apr 2022)
• -37.671417144.8551562 ibis Budget Melbourne Airport, Caldwell Drive, ☏ +61 3 8336 1811, fax: +61 3 8336 1822, [email protected]. Check-in: noon, check-out: 10AM. A budget-friendly option offering basic accommodations. It’s ideal for short stays, providing easy access to the airport. (updated Nov 2024)
• -37.67069144.850363 Parkroyal Melbourne Airport, Arrival Drive, ☏ +61 3 8347 2000, toll-free: 1800 01 7747, fax: +61 3 8347 2001, [email protected]. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 11AM. This hotel is directly connected to the terminals by two short pedestrian flyovers, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. It offers 276 high-quality rooms, with amenities including a 24-hour gym, a heated pool, a spa, a sauna, and paid Wi-Fi. (updated Nov 2024)

• -37.694241144.8747844 Mantra Tullamarine Hotel, 2 Trade Park Drive, Tullamarine, ☏ +61 3 9093 6500, fax: +61 3 9093 6599, [email protected]. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. Located a short drive from the airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and is well-connected to the terminals via shuttle service. (updated Nov 2024)
• -37.681842144.8823035 Quality Hotel Melbourne Airport, 265 Mickleham Road, Tullamarine, ☏ +61 3 9335 9300, fax: +61 3 9338 3818, [email protected]. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. It provides easy access to the airport with a shuttle service and comfortable accommodations for both short and long stays. (updated Nov 2024)

Sleeping inside the airport:

If you’re not checking into a hotel, you can find some places to rest within the terminals, although seating may not be the most comfortable for extended sleep. There are seats in the public areas, but they can be limited, and you may need to stay in your gate area to avoid being asked to move.

For a more peaceful rest, consider the seating near Terminal 2, where it is quieter and less likely to be disturbed.

Melbourne Airport is generally safe for travellers, but it's always important to stay alert in busy areas. Melbourne Airport's security personnel and staff are trained to assist in ensuring the safety and security of all passengers.

The area around Melbourne Airport is largely industrial, with few attractions nearby. However, for those with longer layovers, here are a few options to get some fresh air or explore a bit of Melbourne:

• Sunbury About a 20-minute drive from the airport, Sunbury is a quaint town with several parks, local cafes, and historical sites. It’s a good option for a quiet break from the airport, with charming spots to grab a coffee or walk around.
• Woodlands Historic Park About 10 minutes from the airport, this park features trails, woodlands, and an old homestead with a historic farm. It’s ideal for nature lovers who want to enjoy walking trails and catch a glimpse of native wildlife. Keep an eye out for kangaroos!
• Essendon Fields About a 15-minute drive from the airport, Essendon Fields has some dining and shopping options, including DFO (Direct Factory Outlets) for discounted fashion and lifestyle stores. There are also a few restaurants here for those interested in a quick meal away from the airport.

For shorter layovers, simply stretching your legs by walking between Terminal 4 and the main terminals is an option to get some fresh air without straying too far from the airport.