Getting Around Melbourne by Public Transport

Melbourne’s public transport at a glance

Melbourne’s public transport network includes metropolitan trains, trams and buses. Trains are useful for travelling between the city centre and many suburbs, while trams serve the central area and a broad range of inner suburbs. Buses fill in routes that trains and trams may not cover directly.

You can combine different modes for one journey. Check the route, transfer points and departure information before you leave, especially if you’re travelling outside the central area.

How to pay

Visitors can generally use myki or contactless payment on metropolitan trains, trams and buses. Contactless payment is available for full-fare travel; check the current Transport Victoria guidance for accepted payment methods and any eligibility or service limitations. myki is a reusable travel card, with Mobile myki available on Android devices.

On most journeys, tap on when you board or enter a station. Tap-off rules vary by service: typically, tap off on trains and buses, while on trams the rule depends on the zone. In the Free Tram Zone, do not tap on or off if your entire tram journey stays within the zone. If your journey continues beyond it, tap on before leaving the zone. Check the official guidance for your route and payment type.

The Free Tram Zone

The Free Tram Zone covers part of central Melbourne and is useful for getting between some city-centre stops. It applies to tram travel only; it does not make train or bus journeys free. Look for zone signs at tram stops and check the official map so you know where the boundary lies.

Plan your route

Before travelling, use the Transport Victoria Journey Planner or PTV app to compare routes and check departure information. Official network maps can help you understand train lines, tram routes and the Free Tram Zone. Service information can change, so check for disruptions or timetable updates close to your travel time.

A few practical tips:

• Allow time for transfers and for finding the correct platform or stop.
• Keep your payment card or device ready when you reach a reader.
• Check whether your stop is inside or outside the Free Tram Zone before boarding a tram.
• For journeys beyond Melbourne, check the ticket and payment arrangements for the specific regional service; not every regional route uses the same system.

Make public transport part of your visit

Trains, trams and buses can help you explore Melbourne without relying on a car. A little route planning—and checking the latest service and ticketing information—can make it easier to move between the city centre, neighbourhoods and regional connections.