Guide · 12 Places
Melbourne
Australia
Before You Go
March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) offer ideal weather with temperatures from 13-22°C (55-72°F). Summer (December-February) is warm (20-26°C) and festival season. Winter (June-August) is cool and rainy (8-14°C) but indoor culture thrives. Famous for 'four seasons in one day' weather.
Visa
Check requirementsMost visitors need an eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) obtained online before travel. US, Canadian, UK, European citizens eligible for free eVisitor (90-day stays). Apply at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Melbourne Airport (MEL/Tullamarine) is 23km north of the city.
By Train: V/Line trains connect to Sydney (11 hours) and regional Victoria.
By Car: Great Ocean Road from Adelaide (9 hours).
Language
CommunicationEnglish is the official language. Melbourne is extremely multicultural.
Currency
Money mattersAustralian Dollar (AUD). Exchange rate varies (typically 1.4-1.6 AUD per USD). Cards accepted everywhere - Australia is nearly cashless. Tipping not expected but appreciated (10% for excellent service).
Getting Around
Local transportTrams: Iconic and extensive - 250km of tram tracks. Free Tram Zone in CBD. Otherwise ~$4.50 with myki card.
Trains: Metro network to suburbs. Same myki card.
Buses: Complement trams and trains.
myki card: Essential for all public transit.
Uber: Widely available ($15-35 for most trips).
Walking: CBD, Southbank, Fitzroy, St Kilda very walkable.
Bikes: Good bike lanes and share systems.
From the Airport
Arrival infoSkyBus: Express to Southern Cross Station (20-25 min, $19.75 AUD).
Uber/Taxi: $55-75 AUD to city center (25-40 min depending on traffic).
Public Bus: Route 901 to Broadmeadows, then train (slower, ~$4.50).