8

I'm flying into Melbourne, Australia first thing in the morning in a few weeks. At that time of the morning (rush hour, I assume) a taxi would be madness. What's the most cost efficient form of public transport from there to the city center?

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
7

The Melbourne airport website has a section on public transport, which basically means buses. They recommend using Skybus to get into the city centre. I've used Skybus before during rush hour going the other way, and found it fine. The price should be quite a bit less than a taxi too.

It sounds like you should be arriving at the right time to take advantage of the Skybus hotel transfer service, where they'll take you from the Southern Cross Station (where the coach terminates in the city centre) to your hotel / hostel, which should make your journey easier.

Improve this answer
6
  • 2
    Last time I took the Skybus the price was $20 I think (at least $15). It goes right downtown, I think to Southern Cross Station. Once I paid $20 for a taxi from the airport to Tullamarine - that's the suburb the airport is in! Little price anecdote for you (-;
    – hippietrail
    Commented Sep 25, 2012 at 20:01
  • Prices page is linked from my answer, it's currently $17 one way, $28 return
    – Gagravarr
    Commented Sep 25, 2012 at 20:09
  • Approximately how long does the Skybus trip take from airport to city centre?
    – Jonik
    Commented Sep 25, 2012 at 20:10
  • Website claims 20 minutes, unless traffic is really bad
    – Gagravarr
    Commented Sep 25, 2012 at 21:40
  • 1
    @Gagravarr it's up to $18 one-way, $30 return now :(
    – Mark Mayo
    Commented Mar 26, 2014 at 4:08
2

As it is, the only public transport option from Melbourne Airport (known locally as Tullamarine) to the city centre is the privately run SkyBus, which will set you back $18. The Airport is connected to the city by freeway, and you can expect congestion during peak hours.

Alternatively, you could take one of the suburban public buses which connect to the rail network, but I seriously doubt these will be faster, and won't have anywhere for your luggage.

As mentioned elsewhere, a taxi will be as fast as SkyBus since it will take the same roads and can use the express lane, and it can take you directly to your hotel or workplace. Taxis are expensive but tipping is not required.

Improve this answer
1
  • 2
    Actually, now I know there's also the Jetbus, although that price-matches the Skybus anyway :/
    – Mark Mayo
    Commented Mar 26, 2014 at 4:07

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .