Feb 24, 2017, 7:26 pm
Last edit by: Mwenenzi
This is a Guide for first time passengers using MEL
For more information:-> MEL Airport web site: www.melbourneairport.com.au
TERMINALS & AIRLINES
Melbourne Airport has 4 passenger terminals. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are interconnected, making up the main terminal building. Terminal 4 (opened August 2015) is located next to Terminal 3.
Transfers are convenient in Melbourne Airport as it does not require bus or car transfers. It’s easy to just walk, with your luggage, between terminals.
The Wikipedia entry for Melbourne airport lists airlines & routes. (May not be up to date)
Terminal 1 - Domestic
Terminal 2 - International
All international flights, including for Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia
Terminal 3 - Domestic
LOUNGES
Note the airport web site does not list lounges.
Melbourne Airport has 9 Airline Lounges in the International Terminal (T2). These are airside after security and emigration.
Melbourne Airport has 4 Airline Lounges in the Domestic Terminals
OW lounges (ausbt.com.au) -->https://www.ausbt.com.au/a-qantas-flyer-s-guide-to-melbourne-international-lounge-access
CHECKING IN
Passengers are advised to check-in all baggage 3 hours prior to departure time. While at check-in desks passengers are required to have present passport (with visa if needed) or Personal ID (100 Points) and airline ticket/reservation. Check-in counters are located on the departures level of all terminals.
Passengers flying Qantas First, there is a land-side check-in desk designated for First passengers only in the International Terminal (T2).
For Domestic passengers, we advise you to check-in at least 2-1.5 hours prior to departure time, to meet airline cut off times. Some airlines are very strict, especially Tigerair and Jetstar.
Domestic check-in’s are self service kiosks. NZ and JQ use kiosks and self bag drop for international flights. Other international airlines check-in’s are traditional counter type.
Domestic Airlines cut off check-in times
INTERNET CHECK IN
Internet Check-In is available up to 45 minutes prior to your flight, however check up with your existing carrier and their own online check in rules. Remember for International flights the check-in agent still needs to see your passport and all appropriate documents for your intended destination. All domestic airlines operating out of Melbourne currently offer internet check-in service.
SECURITY SCREENING & AEROSOLS & LIQUIDS
At Melbourne Airport, laptops and other electronic devices are to be taken out of bags and placed into a separate 'tub'. There are certain restrictions on Liquids and Aerosols, which must all be able to fit in a small compact plastic bag;
From Department of Transport & Regional Services;
DEPARTING MELBOURNE - INTERNATIONALLY
Passengers departing Melbourne to board an international flight are required to have present passport and airline boarding pass at the entrance to departure area for inspection by an airport officer.
Then carry-on baggage is checked through security screening. A short walk to the Australian exit controls to the self service kiosks (if using an eligible passport) or the desks with Border Control officers.
To ensure a speedy process through emigration and security check, don't forget your express pass from the check-in agent if flying in Business Class or First Class! (right hand lane on the entering departure area).
Passengers who have brought Duty Free prior must show a Duty Free representative for processing after emigration.
ARRIVING PASSENGERS - INTERNATIONAL
If MEL is your port of entry into Australia you have to clear immigration, customs and quarantine with all your carry on and checked luggage. Check the visa/ETA requirements before your flight or you may be denied boarding (refer below)
There are no arrivals lounges at any Australian airport.
All passengers arriving into Melbourne, must have completed an Australian Immigration Arrival Card, where passengers are to DECLARE all items listed on the card, as Australia is very strict on Quarantine laws.
Once your aircraft has arrived into MEL, simply follow the sign "Arrivals" to where passengers are required to provide Passport with visa (if needed). Self service Smartgate are available for some passport holders. The arrival card is later handed to the officer at Customs.
Once completing Immigration passengers are to collect their baggage. The arrival card is handed to the Border Protection officer at customs barrier who direct passengers to lanes for inspection (declared goods) or outside if no inspection required.
NOTE: Australia is very restrictive of imported (and even inter-state) meats, fruits, vegetable matter and even dirt on one's shoes from rural or farm areas. There are amnesty bins to dump "contraband" in, but if you have any doubt declare it in your entry form so you can avoid serious fines.
MEL also has E-passport kiosks/SmartGate for immigration. SmartGate can be used by Australian, New Zealand, Singaporean, United States and United Kingdom passport holders of 16 and over. Simply place your passport at the scanner, answer the questions truthfully, then collect your card and proceed to a screening gate to get your face checked and recognised. Try to use SmartGate to avoid the long queues.
Au government link----> smartgate
FT Thread ---> Smartgate at Australia & NZ immigration Click to open the wiki
Australian Visa/ ETA
TRANSFERRING INTERNATIONAL to INTERNATIONAL
For passengers transferring internationally from MEL, once you have arrived and disembarked, simply stay Airside and follow the sign "Transit" and follow the escalators up to the departures level. Depending on your airline, your bags may have been transferred to your next flight. Passengers who have not collected their boarding pass for their continuing flight please contact the information desk on the departures level for your boarding pass to be issued. If passengers have Lounge access, boarding passes can be issued or be collected at the Gate issued for you flight. There are no Airline Transfer desks at MEL.
If you have booked 2 separate tickets on different airlines and they do not have interline agreements (i.e. AirAsia KUL-MEL then Air New Zealand MEL-AKL) you must clear immigration and quarantine and collect your bags to re-checkin for your next flight. Allow for at least 2 hours during non-peak times or 4 hours during peak times, international check-in cutoff time is usually 1 hour to 45 minutes prior to departure time.
From post 167 in this thread
TRANSFERRING INTERNATIONAL to DOMESTIC
Passengers transferring domestically, regardless of the flight you have arrived from, you are to complete the same process as of arriving passengers; refer to "ARRIVING PASSENGERS - INTERNATIONAL". Once completed Immigration and quarantine, simply go up 1 level to the departures level to check-in for your domestic flight; refer to "TERMINALS & AIRLINES" for domestic airline information.
ARRIVING PASSENGERS - DOMESTIC to INTERNATIONAL TRANSFERS
Once passengers have arrived into Melbourne, simply go up one level to the departures level to Terminal 2. Depending on your airline, they will transfer your baggage onto your International flight, QF, JQ (selected itineraries) and VA will automatically transfer your bags if booked on 1 single ticket. Passengers flying Tigerair and REX are advise to contact their airline.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT WITH STOP AT ANOTHER AUSTRALIAN CITY
MEL has some international flights that transit to other Australian cities. Once passengers have checked-in for your international flight at the origin destination, bags will be connected onto the final destination.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS OPERATING OUT OF T2 (INTERNATIONAL)
Some domestic flights depart from the international T2 terminal. These are bookable and are considered a domestic flight. Passengers will still need to adhere to International check-in times of 3 hours prior. Identification is needed (100 Points). A drivers license with photo is acceptable. The boarding pass will have a 'orange' domestic sticker and will be stamped by the Border Protection officer.
Qantas operates flight QF09 MEL-PER-LHR from T2 (International).
Jetstar has a couple of tag flights per week that operate to SYD, CNS and BNE from T2 (International).
HOW TO GET TO MELBOURNE CITY?
Link-----> https://www.melbourneairport.com.au/...Buses-shuttles
Melbourne Airport has taxi and bus service direct to the city centre.
More information about Myki can be found here: Myki Visitors Value Pack
AIRPORT HOTELS
Melbourne Airport has 4 hotels onsite, the Park Royal connect directly to the main terminal building, with Holiday Inn and Ibis Budget in walking distance from the main terminal building.
CAN I SMOKE IN MELBOURNE AIRPORT?
Melbourne Airport is absolutely smoke free inside the terminal buildings
WHERE CAN I PRAY?
Melbourne Airport has a designated area for praying in Terminal 2
AIRLINE TICKETING OFFICES
Melbourne Airport's Airlines have ticketing desks on Level 2 in Terminal 2 or respective airline ticketing desks in the domestic terminals.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
In Melbourne the currency is the Australian Dollar ($AUD), there are kiosks near the check-in desks on the departures level, on arrival and after Customs.
RESTAURANTS - WHERE CAN I EAT?
Melbourne Airport is a medium sized airport, and there is limited choice landside. There are selections of fast food chains, bars and cafe's around the airport. Airside T2 has quite a few iconic Melbourne restaurants including Cafe Vue (there’s also Cafe Vue Express landside), Little Ludlow Pub and Bar Pulpo by MoVida.
Terminal 4 (T4) has a large selection of food and beverage outlets ranging from Mc'Donalds to Melbourne icons such as Brunetti's.
GENERAL TIPS & TOURISTY THINGS TO DO!
Passengers who are arriving into Melbourne, in peak times (Mornings Tue, Thurs, Sat & Sun & Midnight rush) make sure to get to Customs and Immigration quickly as there will be long queues at Quarantine and would take you up to 2 hours to clear if caught in the rush.
It would be wise to exchange money at your home city or city you are currently in, as a rule, airport exchange rates are quite low and they also charge a commission, Travellex charges $11~ AUD per transaction at Melbourne Airport.
Melbourne is a great city to get around on foot, trams are also easily accessed on the main streets, a tram is never too far away. If walking or riding trams is not your thing, may I suggest the Melbourne Bike Share, remember you must wear a helmet when riding a bike, these can be purchased at 7-11 convenient stores and are inexpensive. If you are intending to use public transport in Melbourne, you need a Myki card.
Some of Melbourne's tourist attractions includes; Flinders St station, Sealife Melbourne Aquarium, Crown Casino, St Kilda Beach, Albert Park, Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Laneways, MCG, Melbourne Park, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, Queen Victoria Markets, Eureka Tower, Shrine of Remembrance, Southbank, Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne.
Melbourne is a great shopping city, Melbourne's main retail core is in the city; Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, QV Mall, Bourke St Mall, Myer, David Jones and Collins St are all connected to each other and is home to more than 3000 retail stores, cafes and restaurants. Luxury Brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Hermes, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Bvlgari, Omega, Miu Miu, can be found on Collins St, Crown Casino and Chadstone. Trading Hours for shopping in the city is: Saturday-Wednesday: 9AM-7PM, Thursday-Friday: 9AM-9PM. Harbour Town (Docklands), DFO South Wharf and Spencer Outlet Centre are all Outlet Malls within the CBD, these malls generally close at 9PM on Thursdays and Fridays.
Melbourne is well represented with Hotels across all brands; IHG (Intercontinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza), HHonours (Hilton, Double Tree), Accor (Sofitel, Novotel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Mercure, M Collection, The Sebel, Ibis), Marriott [Starwood] (Westin, Sheraton, Four Points ,Marriott), Hyatt (Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt). Local brands include Crown Resorts (Crown Towers, Crown Metropol, Crown Promenade), Hotel Windsor, Grand Hotel Melbourne, Ovolo, Art Series (The Black Man, The Cullen, The Olsen).
Love Sport? Then Melbourne is the place for you! Melbourne hosts regular sporting matches varying from rugby, soccer (football), Australian football (AFL), cricket, netball, basketball and aquatic events year round. Major events include Australian Open (Tennis), Australian Masters (Golf), Australian F1 Grand Prix, Australian Motor GP, Melbourne Cup Carnival and the AFL Grand Final.
If sports isn't your thing, and you are more of an arts person, then Melbourne has you covered too! Visit the Melbourne Museum, ACMI, Federation Square, State Library, National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre. There are also quite a number of independent galleries in and around the CBD, most of these are tucked away in lane ways and random nooks, rooftops and even underground. Melbourne is famous for its lane ways full of street art, painted by street artists of all ages, the lanes have transformed the city and is one of the main tourists draw cards, famous lanes include Hosier Lane, just off Flinders St. Explore, loose yourself in Melbourne! - you don't know what you will find!
Don't forget to pick up a Melbourne Guide on arrival! These include great discount coupons for tourist attractions!
Hope this Helps and Enjoy your Stay in Beautiful Melbourne!
Disclaimer
This is a general guide only. For more detailed information do your own research. Partially for passport-visa issues.
Update
16 April 2019
For more information:-> MEL Airport web site: www.melbourneairport.com.au
TERMINALS & AIRLINES
Melbourne Airport has 4 passenger terminals. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are interconnected, making up the main terminal building. Terminal 4 (opened August 2015) is located next to Terminal 3.
Transfers are convenient in Melbourne Airport as it does not require bus or car transfers. It’s easy to just walk, with your luggage, between terminals.
The Wikipedia entry for Melbourne airport lists airlines & routes. (May not be up to date)
Terminal 1 - Domestic
- Qantas
Terminal 2 - International
All international flights, including for Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia
Terminal 3 - Domestic
- Virgin Australia
- REX (departure)
- Jetstar Airways,
- Tigerair Australia
- Regional Express (REX)
- Airnorth
LOUNGES
Note the airport web site does not list lounges.
Melbourne Airport has 9 Airline Lounges in the International Terminal (T2). These are airside after security and emigration.
- Air New Zealand Int'l Lounge - Level 1 (*G)
- Emirates Lounge - Level 3
- The House (Etihad Airways, Virgin Australia and other airlines) - Level 3
- Qantas Club/Business Lounge - Level 1 (OWS, OWE)
- Qantas First Lounge - Level 3 (OWE)
- Singapore Airlines Silver Kris - Level 1 (*G)
- Cathay Pacific First Lounge - Level 1 (OWS, OWE)
- Marhaba Lounge (Qatar Airlines)
- AMEX lounge
- Plaza Premium (Priority Pass) Has cash entry
Melbourne Airport has 4 Airline Lounges in the Domestic Terminals
- Qantas Chairman’s Lounge - T1, Level 2
- Qantas Club - T1, Level 2
- Qantas Business Lounge - T1, Level 2
- Virgin Australia Lounge - T3, Departures Level
OW lounges (ausbt.com.au) -->https://www.ausbt.com.au/a-qantas-flyer-s-guide-to-melbourne-international-lounge-access
CHECKING IN
Passengers are advised to check-in all baggage 3 hours prior to departure time. While at check-in desks passengers are required to have present passport (with visa if needed) or Personal ID (100 Points) and airline ticket/reservation. Check-in counters are located on the departures level of all terminals.
Passengers flying Qantas First, there is a land-side check-in desk designated for First passengers only in the International Terminal (T2).
For Domestic passengers, we advise you to check-in at least 2-1.5 hours prior to departure time, to meet airline cut off times. Some airlines are very strict, especially Tigerair and Jetstar.
Domestic check-in’s are self service kiosks. NZ and JQ use kiosks and self bag drop for international flights. Other international airlines check-in’s are traditional counter type.
Domestic Airlines cut off check-in times
- Qantas Airways - 30 minutes prior to departure
- Qantas Link - 30 minutes prior to departure
- Jetstar Airways - 30 minutes prior to departure
- Virgin Australia - 30 minutes prior to departure
- Tigerair Australia - 45 minutes prior to departure
- Regional Express (REX) - 30 minutes prior to departure
INTERNET CHECK IN
Internet Check-In is available up to 45 minutes prior to your flight, however check up with your existing carrier and their own online check in rules. Remember for International flights the check-in agent still needs to see your passport and all appropriate documents for your intended destination. All domestic airlines operating out of Melbourne currently offer internet check-in service.
SECURITY SCREENING & AEROSOLS & LIQUIDS
At Melbourne Airport, laptops and other electronic devices are to be taken out of bags and placed into a separate 'tub'. There are certain restrictions on Liquids and Aerosols, which must all be able to fit in a small compact plastic bag;
From Department of Transport & Regional Services;
All containers with drinks, creams, perfumes, sprays, gels, toothpaste and similar substances will have to be carried in a re-sealable transparent plastic bag, no larger than one litre, and be inspected separately at the airport screening point.
Each container should not have a capacity greater than 100 millilitres and all containers should fit comfortably in the re-sealable plastic bag. Exceptions will be made for passengers with medical conditions and quantities of baby food required for the flight. However, these items may be subject to additional security checks. Passengers can still take on board items purchased after the screening point, including duty free.
Each container should not have a capacity greater than 100 millilitres and all containers should fit comfortably in the re-sealable plastic bag. Exceptions will be made for passengers with medical conditions and quantities of baby food required for the flight. However, these items may be subject to additional security checks. Passengers can still take on board items purchased after the screening point, including duty free.
Passengers departing Melbourne to board an international flight are required to have present passport and airline boarding pass at the entrance to departure area for inspection by an airport officer.
Then carry-on baggage is checked through security screening. A short walk to the Australian exit controls to the self service kiosks (if using an eligible passport) or the desks with Border Control officers.
To ensure a speedy process through emigration and security check, don't forget your express pass from the check-in agent if flying in Business Class or First Class! (right hand lane on the entering departure area).
Passengers who have brought Duty Free prior must show a Duty Free representative for processing after emigration.
ARRIVING PASSENGERS - INTERNATIONAL
If MEL is your port of entry into Australia you have to clear immigration, customs and quarantine with all your carry on and checked luggage. Check the visa/ETA requirements before your flight or you may be denied boarding (refer below)
There are no arrivals lounges at any Australian airport.
All passengers arriving into Melbourne, must have completed an Australian Immigration Arrival Card, where passengers are to DECLARE all items listed on the card, as Australia is very strict on Quarantine laws.
Once your aircraft has arrived into MEL, simply follow the sign "Arrivals" to where passengers are required to provide Passport with visa (if needed). Self service Smartgate are available for some passport holders. The arrival card is later handed to the officer at Customs.
Once completing Immigration passengers are to collect their baggage. The arrival card is handed to the Border Protection officer at customs barrier who direct passengers to lanes for inspection (declared goods) or outside if no inspection required.
NOTE: Australia is very restrictive of imported (and even inter-state) meats, fruits, vegetable matter and even dirt on one's shoes from rural or farm areas. There are amnesty bins to dump "contraband" in, but if you have any doubt declare it in your entry form so you can avoid serious fines.
MEL also has E-passport kiosks/SmartGate for immigration. SmartGate can be used by Australian, New Zealand, Singaporean, United States and United Kingdom passport holders of 16 and over. Simply place your passport at the scanner, answer the questions truthfully, then collect your card and proceed to a screening gate to get your face checked and recognised. Try to use SmartGate to avoid the long queues.
Au government link----> smartgate
Arrivals SmartGate enables eligible travellers arriving at Australia’s eight major international airport’s the option to self-process through passport control. It provides a secure and efficient way to clear through passport control.
Arrivals SmartGate uses the information in ePassports and facial recognition technology to perform checks usually conducted by an Australian Border Force officer.
Arrivals SmartGate uses the information in ePassports and facial recognition technology to perform checks usually conducted by an Australian Border Force officer.
Australian Visa/ ETA
- Link to Australian government web site---> Entering or leaving Australia
- Link to Australian government web site---> Crossing the border
- Link to Australian government web site ----> Visa types
- Link to Australian government web site ---> Transit visa. Needed by some passport holders when doing international airside transit
- Link to Australian government web site (application) ----> Australian Electronic Travel Authority AUD$20. For passports holders from Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Hong Kong (SAR PRC), Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea and United States. Beware of non government 3rd party look-a-like web sites that charge more, often found with a browser web search. Only the Australian government web site/department issues visas. The other scam web sites just send you data to the Au Gov web site.
FT thread---> Free Australian ETA Visa application* Click to open the wiki
Processing Australian ETAs for free * to FT members (and up to 3 more friends & family) who have more than 80 posts, AND have at least been members for more than 12 months! Please read post 1. Thanks to Guy Betsy for his service to the FT community
TRANSFERRING INTERNATIONAL to INTERNATIONAL
For passengers transferring internationally from MEL, once you have arrived and disembarked, simply stay Airside and follow the sign "Transit" and follow the escalators up to the departures level. Depending on your airline, your bags may have been transferred to your next flight. Passengers who have not collected their boarding pass for their continuing flight please contact the information desk on the departures level for your boarding pass to be issued. If passengers have Lounge access, boarding passes can be issued or be collected at the Gate issued for you flight. There are no Airline Transfer desks at MEL.
If you have booked 2 separate tickets on different airlines and they do not have interline agreements (i.e. AirAsia KUL-MEL then Air New Zealand MEL-AKL) you must clear immigration and quarantine and collect your bags to re-checkin for your next flight. Allow for at least 2 hours during non-peak times or 4 hours during peak times, international check-in cutoff time is usually 1 hour to 45 minutes prior to departure time.
From post 167 in this thread
Passengers transferring domestically, regardless of the flight you have arrived from, you are to complete the same process as of arriving passengers; refer to "ARRIVING PASSENGERS - INTERNATIONAL". Once completed Immigration and quarantine, simply go up 1 level to the departures level to check-in for your domestic flight; refer to "TERMINALS & AIRLINES" for domestic airline information.
ARRIVING PASSENGERS - DOMESTIC to INTERNATIONAL TRANSFERS
Once passengers have arrived into Melbourne, simply go up one level to the departures level to Terminal 2. Depending on your airline, they will transfer your baggage onto your International flight, QF, JQ (selected itineraries) and VA will automatically transfer your bags if booked on 1 single ticket. Passengers flying Tigerair and REX are advise to contact their airline.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT WITH STOP AT ANOTHER AUSTRALIAN CITY
MEL has some international flights that transit to other Australian cities. Once passengers have checked-in for your international flight at the origin destination, bags will be connected onto the final destination.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS OPERATING OUT OF T2 (INTERNATIONAL)
Some domestic flights depart from the international T2 terminal. These are bookable and are considered a domestic flight. Passengers will still need to adhere to International check-in times of 3 hours prior. Identification is needed (100 Points). A drivers license with photo is acceptable. The boarding pass will have a 'orange' domestic sticker and will be stamped by the Border Protection officer.
Qantas operates flight QF09 MEL-PER-LHR from T2 (International).
Jetstar has a couple of tag flights per week that operate to SYD, CNS and BNE from T2 (International).
HOW TO GET TO MELBOURNE CITY?
Link-----> https://www.melbourneairport.com.au/...Buses-shuttles
Melbourne Airport has taxi and bus service direct to the city centre.
- SkyBus departs every 10 minutes direct to Southern Cross Station www.skybus.com.au
- A Taxi Fare would settle you back around Au$55 Australian Dollars to the city
- Smartbus Route 901 departs from the T4 terminal forecourt and routes to Frankston*
More information about Myki can be found here: Myki Visitors Value Pack
AIRPORT HOTELS
Melbourne Airport has 4 hotels onsite, the Park Royal connect directly to the main terminal building, with Holiday Inn and Ibis Budget in walking distance from the main terminal building.
- Park Royal Melbourne Airport (****)
- Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport (***)
- Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport (**)
- Mantra Tullamarine (***)
- Quest Melbourne Airport (****)
CAN I SMOKE IN MELBOURNE AIRPORT?
Melbourne Airport is absolutely smoke free inside the terminal buildings
WHERE CAN I PRAY?
Melbourne Airport has a designated area for praying in Terminal 2
AIRLINE TICKETING OFFICES
Melbourne Airport's Airlines have ticketing desks on Level 2 in Terminal 2 or respective airline ticketing desks in the domestic terminals.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
In Melbourne the currency is the Australian Dollar ($AUD), there are kiosks near the check-in desks on the departures level, on arrival and after Customs.
RESTAURANTS - WHERE CAN I EAT?
Melbourne Airport is a medium sized airport, and there is limited choice landside. There are selections of fast food chains, bars and cafe's around the airport. Airside T2 has quite a few iconic Melbourne restaurants including Cafe Vue (there’s also Cafe Vue Express landside), Little Ludlow Pub and Bar Pulpo by MoVida.
Terminal 4 (T4) has a large selection of food and beverage outlets ranging from Mc'Donalds to Melbourne icons such as Brunetti's.
GENERAL TIPS & TOURISTY THINGS TO DO!
Passengers who are arriving into Melbourne, in peak times (Mornings Tue, Thurs, Sat & Sun & Midnight rush) make sure to get to Customs and Immigration quickly as there will be long queues at Quarantine and would take you up to 2 hours to clear if caught in the rush.
It would be wise to exchange money at your home city or city you are currently in, as a rule, airport exchange rates are quite low and they also charge a commission, Travellex charges $11~ AUD per transaction at Melbourne Airport.
Melbourne is a great city to get around on foot, trams are also easily accessed on the main streets, a tram is never too far away. If walking or riding trams is not your thing, may I suggest the Melbourne Bike Share, remember you must wear a helmet when riding a bike, these can be purchased at 7-11 convenient stores and are inexpensive. If you are intending to use public transport in Melbourne, you need a Myki card.
Some of Melbourne's tourist attractions includes; Flinders St station, Sealife Melbourne Aquarium, Crown Casino, St Kilda Beach, Albert Park, Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Laneways, MCG, Melbourne Park, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, Queen Victoria Markets, Eureka Tower, Shrine of Remembrance, Southbank, Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne.
Melbourne is a great shopping city, Melbourne's main retail core is in the city; Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, QV Mall, Bourke St Mall, Myer, David Jones and Collins St are all connected to each other and is home to more than 3000 retail stores, cafes and restaurants. Luxury Brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Hermes, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Bvlgari, Omega, Miu Miu, can be found on Collins St, Crown Casino and Chadstone. Trading Hours for shopping in the city is: Saturday-Wednesday: 9AM-7PM, Thursday-Friday: 9AM-9PM. Harbour Town (Docklands), DFO South Wharf and Spencer Outlet Centre are all Outlet Malls within the CBD, these malls generally close at 9PM on Thursdays and Fridays.
Melbourne is well represented with Hotels across all brands; IHG (Intercontinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza), HHonours (Hilton, Double Tree), Accor (Sofitel, Novotel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Mercure, M Collection, The Sebel, Ibis), Marriott [Starwood] (Westin, Sheraton, Four Points ,Marriott), Hyatt (Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt). Local brands include Crown Resorts (Crown Towers, Crown Metropol, Crown Promenade), Hotel Windsor, Grand Hotel Melbourne, Ovolo, Art Series (The Black Man, The Cullen, The Olsen).
Love Sport? Then Melbourne is the place for you! Melbourne hosts regular sporting matches varying from rugby, soccer (football), Australian football (AFL), cricket, netball, basketball and aquatic events year round. Major events include Australian Open (Tennis), Australian Masters (Golf), Australian F1 Grand Prix, Australian Motor GP, Melbourne Cup Carnival and the AFL Grand Final.
If sports isn't your thing, and you are more of an arts person, then Melbourne has you covered too! Visit the Melbourne Museum, ACMI, Federation Square, State Library, National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre. There are also quite a number of independent galleries in and around the CBD, most of these are tucked away in lane ways and random nooks, rooftops and even underground. Melbourne is famous for its lane ways full of street art, painted by street artists of all ages, the lanes have transformed the city and is one of the main tourists draw cards, famous lanes include Hosier Lane, just off Flinders St. Explore, loose yourself in Melbourne! - you don't know what you will find!
Don't forget to pick up a Melbourne Guide on arrival! These include great discount coupons for tourist attractions!
Hope this Helps and Enjoy your Stay in Beautiful Melbourne!
Disclaimer
This is a general guide only. For more detailed information do your own research. Partially for passport-visa issues.
Update
16 April 2019
Airport info MELBOURNE (MEL) - amenities, transfers, transport
Aug 25, 2015, 3:39 pm
#46
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: LHR (sometimes CLE, SFO, BOS, LAX, SEA)
Programs: UA 1K
Posts: 5,892
OK, just to follow up on connection logistics in MEL:
We arrived on a SQ flight SIN-MEL which was scheduled to land at 0640. We had booked an onward QF flight MEL-PER departing at 1035.
Our flight actually touched down at 0605. We de-planed at 0620. After a loo break, we cleared passport control at 0630 and customs at 0637. We walked to the QF domestic departure areas and cleared security; we were at the domestic departure area at about 0644 and in the lounge by 0650.
We had time to shower at the QF lounge, refund our award tickets on the 1035 flight, book new award tickets on the 0835 flight, ask the lounge attendants to check us in, and it is now 0740 and still not quite time to board.
We arrived on a SQ flight SIN-MEL which was scheduled to land at 0640. We had booked an onward QF flight MEL-PER departing at 1035.
Our flight actually touched down at 0605. We de-planed at 0620. After a loo break, we cleared passport control at 0630 and customs at 0637. We walked to the QF domestic departure areas and cleared security; we were at the domestic departure area at about 0644 and in the lounge by 0650.
We had time to shower at the QF lounge, refund our award tickets on the 1035 flight, book new award tickets on the 0835 flight, ask the lounge attendants to check us in, and it is now 0740 and still not quite time to board.
Aug 25, 2015, 3:44 pm
#47
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Colorado
Programs: UA Gold (.85 MM), HH Diamond, SPG Platinum (LT Gold), Hertz PC, National EE
Posts: 5,648
Flying International on United in BusinessFirst as a United 1K, MEL-LAX. I seem to recall that we filled out the departure cards at the entrance to Immigration now that I think about it, but looking for confirmation. Our January departure if memory serves was around 11:15 am, but my flight next week is at 9:15 am and would like to gauge the time needed at the airport.
At MEL in January, the standard check-in area was a zoo for United (probably not helped by the previous day's cancellation of MEL-LAX on UA), while the area for GS/1K/BusinessFirst only took a few minutes. Since I don't need to check a bag on next weeks trip, I'm hoping to head straight to immigration saving a bit of time.
At MEL in January, the standard check-in area was a zoo for United (probably not helped by the previous day's cancellation of MEL-LAX on UA), while the area for GS/1K/BusinessFirst only took a few minutes. Since I don't need to check a bag on next weeks trip, I'm hoping to head straight to immigration saving a bit of time.
Aug 25, 2015, 8:26 pm
#48
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: MEL CHC
Posts: 20,990
Flying International on United in BusinessFirst as a United 1K, MEL-LAX. I seem to recall that we filled out the departure cards at the entrance to Immigration now that I think about it, but looking for confirmation. Our January departure if memory serves was around 11:15 am, but my flight next week is at 9:15 am and would like to gauge the time needed at the airport.
At MEL in January, the standard check-in area was a zoo for United (probably not helped by the previous day's cancellation of MEL-LAX on UA), while the area for GS/1K/BusinessFirst only took a few minutes. Since I don't need to check a bag on next weeks trip, I'm hoping to head straight to immigration saving a bit of time.
At MEL in January, the standard check-in area was a zoo for United (probably not helped by the previous day's cancellation of MEL-LAX on UA), while the area for GS/1K/BusinessFirst only took a few minutes. Since I don't need to check a bag on next weeks trip, I'm hoping to head straight to immigration saving a bit of time.
09:15 is very busy time for MEL departures. This is a time I depart frequently (once every 4 -6 weeks for the last year). Queues for security and immigration exit can be /will be long. With First you should get an express pass.
Aug 25, 2015, 10:59 pm
#49
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Colorado
Programs: UA Gold (.85 MM), HH Diamond, SPG Platinum (LT Gold), Hertz PC, National EE
Posts: 5,648
You need a boarding pass (from UA) to go into the exit immigration area. The guy on the door will not let in without a boarding pass and passport. For international departure the airline check in will look at your passport to verify you have a valid entry into USA, UK or where ever.
09:15 is very busy time for MEL departures. This is a time I depart frequently (once every 4 -6 weeks for the last year). Queues for security and immigration exit can be /will be long. With First you should get an express pass.
09:15 is very busy time for MEL departures. This is a time I depart frequently (once every 4 -6 weeks for the last year). Queues for security and immigration exit can be /will be long. With First you should get an express pass.
Sep 17, 2015, 1:43 pm
#50
Join Date: Jul 2013
Programs: AAdvantage, SPG
Posts: 30
HOW TO GET TO MELBOURNE CITY?
Melbourne Airport has taxi & bus service direct to the city centre.
- SkyBus departs every 10 minutes direct to Southern Cross Station www.skybus.com.au
- A Taxi Fare would settle you back 40-50 Australian Dollars ($AUD) to the city
- Smartbus Route 901 departs from the main terminal forecourt and routes to Frankston*
Sep 18, 2015, 8:31 am
#51
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Colorado
Programs: UA Gold (.85 MM), HH Diamond, SPG Platinum (LT Gold), Hertz PC, National EE
Posts: 5,648
My family of 4 plus lots of bags still chose a taxi to get to CBD in December. There will be a variety of taxi's in size, so we simply used a large wagon that could handle all of our luggage. I would also comment that the cars and even the drivers are much nicer (as far as common taxi's go) than what we see in the US.
Oct 16, 2015, 10:57 am
#52
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: YOW/HBA
Programs: Qantas Silver, MileagePlus Silver
Posts: 418
International to Domestic Transfer, Not Protected
I have a question with regards to connecting times.
I'm arriving on a Saturday at 9:00am PVG-MEL (Air China)
Then I booked MEL-HBA at 11:25am on a separate ticket. (Jetstar)
If my flights arrive and leave on time, do I have enough time to get through customs, drop luggage off at Jetstar check-in counter and make my departing flight to Hobart?
I'm arriving on a Saturday at 9:00am PVG-MEL (Air China)
Then I booked MEL-HBA at 11:25am on a separate ticket. (Jetstar)
If my flights arrive and leave on time, do I have enough time to get through customs, drop luggage off at Jetstar check-in counter and make my departing flight to Hobart?
Oct 18, 2015, 6:36 pm
#54
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: YOW/HBA
Programs: Qantas Silver, MileagePlus Silver
Posts: 418
Jan 29, 2016, 6:43 am
#55
Join Date: Dec 2015
Location: Southern California
Programs: AA EXPLAT, AS MVP 75K, Star Alliance Gold, JetBlue Mosaic, SPG GOLD, HH Gold
Posts: 108
Quick Question!
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
Jan 29, 2016, 3:45 pm
#56
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Quick Question!
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
3 hours is plenty of time although transfer security will be busy (lots of other passengers connecting internationally from your flight).
Jan 29, 2016, 4:14 pm
#57
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: MEL CHC
Posts: 20,990
Quick Question!
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
I am looking to book a first class ticket on Emirates from AKL>MEL arriving at 740pm on a Monday night. I have a separate reservation to fly first class with Etihad that departs at 1040pm. I will have no checked bags, just a carry one. I was wondering, is 3 hours enough time to get through customs, check back in, and make it through security in time to catch my flight on Etihad???? Any information would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Levi
Jan 31, 2016, 8:48 pm
#58
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Bali
Posts: 261
I am doing a domestic to international connection on a Saturday or Sunday morning in April, and have a six-hour layover (from 8am to 2pm). In reality, we probably only have five hours since we will have to re-check luggage.
Does it make any sense to leave the airport without breaking the bank?
There are four of us (two adults, two kids). We won't have any lounge access (sniff, sniff), and the others have never been to Melbourne.
Does it make any sense to leave the airport without breaking the bank?
There are four of us (two adults, two kids). We won't have any lounge access (sniff, sniff), and the others have never been to Melbourne.
Jan 31, 2016, 9:08 pm
#59
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: MEL CHC
Posts: 20,990
I am doing a domestic to international connection on a Saturday or Sunday morning in April, and have a six-hour layover (from 8am to 2pm). In reality, we probably only have five hours since we will have to re-check luggage.
Does it make any sense to leave the airport without breaking the bank?
There are four of us (two adults, two kids). We won't have any lounge access (sniff, sniff), and the others have never been to Melbourne.
Does it make any sense to leave the airport without breaking the bank?
There are four of us (two adults, two kids). We won't have any lounge access (sniff, sniff), and the others have never been to Melbourne.
You could visit Southbank https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southbank,_Victoria https://www.southgatemelbourne.com.au/
Or the https://www.melbourneaquarium.com.au/
Both 5-10 minute walk from the skybus terminal.
Feb 2, 2016, 1:11 pm
#60
Original Member
Join Date: May 1998
Location: Portland OR Double Emerald (QF and AA), DL PM/MM, Starwood Plat
Posts: 19,589
Obviously not flying QF (as that will transfer bags even on separate tickets, so no need to recheck); depending upon airline bag check-in may not be available 6 hours prior to flight time. In that case renting a car is cheaper than transport to/from airport (either taxi or skybus) and you can store bags in the boot. Takes 30 min each way to drive to airport, so you have a good 4 hours for sight-seeing. Lots of choices if you have a car.
