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Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you need to settle for tourist traps or miss out on what makes Melbourne special. With a bit of planning (and a smart mix of transport choices), you can explore the city like a local — without blowing your budget or wasting time in long lines.
Whether you’re chasing laneway lattes, food truck festivals, or epic day trips, here are the best cheap ways to travel around Melbourne — and when it makes sense to swap convenience for value.
🚋 Public Transport: Good for the Basics
Melbourne’s tram and train network is decent, especially in the inner suburbs and CBD. The Free Tram Zone makes it easy to hop around the city centre without spending a cent. All you need is a Myki card (about $6) and you’re good to go for trains, trams and buses.
Best for: Getting around the CBD, Fitzroy, Carlton, Southbank
Downside: Delays, crowds during peak hours, and limited access to regional or scenic spots like the Dandenongs or the coast.
🚕 Rideshare & Taxis: Easy but Pricey
Apps like Uber, DiDi and Ola work well in Melbourne and are handy when you’re out late or heading somewhere not easily reached by tram. But costs add up fast — especially with surge pricing, airport fees, or longer distances.
- Airport to CBD? Around $60
- One-way to the Yarra Valley? $100+
- Visiting multiple places in one day? Prepare for a big bill
Best for: Short trips or late-night travel
Downside: Not budget-friendly for full-day exploring or groups
🚗 Car Rental: Underrated Value for Day Trips & Flexibility
Here’s where most travellers miss the mark: car rental is often the most cost-effective option if you’re doing more than just sticking to the CBD.
Let’s break it down:
- Daily rental cost: Often cheaper than multiple rideshares
- Fuel split between travellers: Lowers the cost further
- You control the day: No waiting for trams, no chasing schedules
- Freedom to explore: Think Mornington Peninsula, Dandenong Ranges, or even a spontaneous beach detour
Plus, if you hire a car from Melbourne Airport, you can skip the transfer cost entirely and start exploring straight away.
Best for: Day trips, couples or groups, flexible travellers
Downside: Parking in the city can be tricky (but easy in suburbs or scenic spots)
💡 Travel Smart, Not Just Cheap
The trick isn’t just spending less — it’s getting more for what you do spend. Public transport works great for short city hops. Rideshare is useful in a pinch. But if you’re planning to go beyond the grid and travel on your terms, car hire wins on value, comfort, and convenience.
Want to explore without the tourist feel? Book your Melbourne Airport car hire and make every dollar go further — one scenic stop at a time.
