Melbourne Transport
Melbourne has an excellent public transport system which includes an integrated network of buses, trains, trams and metro services. The city's fleet of historic trams offers a nostalgic way to get around and they are a highlight of Melbourne. Many visitors choose to rent a car during their visit, since it is relatively easy to navigate you way around the city. There are also dozens of excellent daytrips in the area and Victoria's road system makes driving a snap.
By Metro
The City Loop is the name of Melbourne's underground train network. This metro system provides a quick and inexpensive way to get from one side of the city to the other. The metro stops at several of the city's major tourist points such as Spencer Street, Flinders Street and Melbourne Central.
By Train
The city's impressive and reliable network of trains cover the centre of Melbourne and its surrounding suburbs. Most of the trains start running at 05:00 and stop around midnight. They operate every 10 minutes or so during the peak commuting hours and every 15 to 20 minutes during the rest of the day. After 19:00 and at the weekends, the trains run every 30 minutes or so. Melbourne's main inner-city train station is at the Flinders Street Railway Station in the downtown area.
By Bus and Tram
Buses in Melbourne are operated by a private company, and are designed to supplement the city's train and tram services. The city buses cover an extensive route network, both within the metropolitan area and the outer suburbs. Melbourne's public transit system is divided into three zones for ticketing purposes. A basic ticket allows travel within one zone on any bus, tram or train for up to 2 hours after purchase. Tickets can be bought directly on the bus or from a newsagent.
Melbourne's historic trams are one of the charismatic highlights of this city and should not be overlooked. Tram routes cover much of the central area as well as parts of the inner suburbs. They operate until midnight and can be hailed wherever you see a gold and green tram sign. There is also a free City Circle tram which operates every 10 minutes from 10:00 to 18:00 daily. The free tram travels mainly in the city centre.
Taxis
Taxis in Melbourne are metered and can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands or pre-booked by phone. Most city taxis are yellow and drivers are required to wear uniforms.
