Victoria, Australia
Melbourne Airport (MEL) – Tullamarine is Victoria's main international and domestic airport, serving a wide range of flights and services.
Avalon Airport (AVV) caters mainly to budget airlines, a convenient option for direct starts from Geelong or Torquay.
Melbourne Airport (MEL) welcomes numerous international airlines, simplifying travel from major global hubs. Domestic airlines (Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar) fly frequent routes across Australia.
Flight prices generally peak during Australian school and public holidays. Booking 3-6 months in advance for international travel often gives better prices. Flexibility with dates saves money.
Both MEL and AVV offer standard facilities including car rental desks, ATMs, currency exchange, dining, and shops. MEL has more extensive duty-free and dining selections.
Reputable, wide vehicle range, loyalty programs. Can be pricier, especially for premium vehicles.
Good value, competitive rates. Fleet age may vary, some mixed service reviews.
Thrifty often budget-friendly. Enterprise focuses on customer service. Sixt offers newer, premium options.
Driving the Great Ocean Road offers unparalleled flexibility, the best way to experience its many viewpoints and hidden spots.
Road conditions are generally good, but awareness of specific hazards helps ensure a safe journey.
Victoria's regional train and bus network, V/Line, offers connections to cities near the Great Ocean Road.
Regional bus services exist, but organized tours remain the main alternative for sightseeing.
Sea and river transportation are not main access methods for the Great Ocean Road directly, but coastal cities serve as entry points for cruise passengers.
For cruise passengers, immigration procedures at Australian seaports mirror air travel requirements.
The Great Ocean Road itself does not have direct ferry services or cruise ports along its length for general passenger arrivals.
River transportation does not play a role for accessing the Great Ocean Road, as major attractions are coastal or within the Otway Ranges.
Cruise passengers disembark into Melbourne, where car rental offices and various tour operators are readily available for GOR trips.
No specific exit fees or taxes are paid separately at the airport; any applicable government charges typically come included in your airline ticket price.
Both Melbourne and Avalon Airports offer standard facilities for departing travellers.
For a seamless departure, plan your return journey from the Great Ocean Road to the airport with ample time, accounting for potential traffic or car rental processing.
