How to Get to Victoria. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports

Victoria’s main international and domestic airport is Melbourne Airport (MEL) - Tullamarine. Avalon Airport (AVV) is a smaller alternative for domestic flights.

Airport Information

Melbourne Airport (MEL) is 23km to the to the northwest of Melbourne CBD.
Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km southwest of Melbourne CBD, closer to Geelong.
Both airports have vehicle rental desks plus simple facilities.

Airlines & Routes

Melbourne Airport connects to major global hubs and all Australian capital cities.

Popular Connections

Direct flights from North America (LAX, SFO, DFW, YVR).
Strong direct connections to Asian cities (Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul).
Domestic airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex.

Find Cheap Flights

Use tools like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.

Price Fluctuations

Expect higher prices during Australian school vacations (Dec-Feb) and major events like the Australian Open.

Airport Transfers

SkyBus connects MEL and AVV in The direction of the south Cross Station. Taxis and ride-shares are available.

Airport Facilities & Services

Melbourne Airport MEL

Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals.
Extensive duty-free shopping and various dining options.
Currency exchange and vehicle rental desks.
Airline lounges for eligible passengers.

Avalon Airport AVV

More rudimentary facilities with necessary amenities.
Food outlets and car rental options.
Mainly serves low-cost domestic flights (Jetstar).
Closer to Geelong, a good option if traveling to that region.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

Australia does not impose a separate exit fee; any departure taxes are usually included in your airfare.

Timing

For international flights, arrive 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1-2 hours.

Procedures

Online check-in is recommended. Standard security checks apply for carry-on items and passengers.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Trains offer a comfortable way to travel regionally within Victoria and connect to neighboring states.

Services

V/Line: Victoria's regional train network, connecting Melbourne to major regional centers (Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo).
Interstate Trains: NSW TrainLink connects Melbourne (Southern Cross Station) to Sydney (overnight journey).
Myki cards are utilized for short-distance V/Line commuter services.

Long-Distance Buses

Buses give an economical and flexible way to travel, often serving routes not covered by trains.

Options

V/Line Coaches: Complement train network, reaching more remote towns in area-specific Victoria.
Greyhound Australia: Extensive network connecting Melbourne to other capital cities and regional towns across Australia.
Often the cheapest-friendly option for interstate travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

For travelers desiring flexibility and independent exploration, renting a car is a great option. Compare rental options at DiscoverCars.com.

Driving Rules

Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Steering wheel on the right.
Valid overseas driver's licence (in English) or an International Driving Permit.
Strict enforcement of speed limits, seatbelts, and drink-driving laws.

Road Conditions & Safety

Victoria's main roads are generally excellent, but rural areas feature special considerations.

Safety Points

Major highways are well-maintained and clearly signposted.
Wildlife hazards in area-specific areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and be vigilant.
Plan fuel stops and breaks on long-distance drives. Driver fatigue is a safety is asue.

Border Crossing & Biosecurity

No formal border crossings between Australian states.
Strict biosecurity regulations apply to plant, fruit, or vegetable items when crossing borders.
Look for quarantine bins at state borders to dispose of restricted items.

Sea/River Arrivals: Spirit of Tasmania ferry connects Devonport, Tasmania, to Geelong, Victoria.
Standard Australian immigration and biosecurity procedures apply at seaports for international flights arriving.
River transportation is mainly for tourist cruises on the Yarra River in Melbourne.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

Victoria boasts an integrated the mass transit system, with Melbourne in its prime heart. The Myki a smart pass system streamlines travel across trams, trains, and buses.

Aspects

Myki Card: Your ticketing system for all trams, trains, and buses in Melbourne.
Melbourne Trams: One of the world's largest networks. Free Tram Zone in CBD.
Metro Trains: Connects Melbourne CBD to suburbs. Key hubs include Flinders Street and Southern Cross.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

For direct and convenient travel, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, especially outside public transport hours.

Options & Safety

Licensed Taxis: Yellow or silver, signal for a taxi on the street or find at ranks. Accept cash and card.
Ride-Sharing: Uber, Didi, and Ola are widely used. Book and pay through the app.
Safety: For ride-sharing, check the driver's details/vehicle details match the app.

Walking Friendly

Melbourne CBD is pedestrian-friendly, with wide footpaths and a network of laneways.

Cycling Network

Expanding network of dedicated bike lanes. Cyclists must wear an approved Helmet.

Specialized Transport

Puffing Billy Railway in Dandenong Ranges, Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola on Mornington Peninsula.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major international car rental companies operate in Victoria at airports and city locations.

Requirements

Valid driver's licence (in English, or with IDP/certified translation).
Credit card for security deposit.
Generally 21+ years old (some require 25+).

Driving Laws & Conditions

Familiarise yourself with Australian road rules for a safe journey.

Rules

Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Speed limits are strictly enforced; seatbelts are mandatory.
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.

Parking & Tolls

Melbourne CBD Parking

Scarce and pricey. Multi-story parking lots are available. Consider 'park-and-ride' options.

Regional Parking

Generally easier and often cheaper or free in area-specific towns and attractions.

Tolls

Melbourne has tolled motorways (CityLink, EastLink). Rental vehicles usually have electronic tags.

Driving Tip

Check VicTraffic for real-time road conditions, traffic incidents, and street closures, especially during bushfire season or heavy rain events.

How to Get to Victoria