So your holiday’s booked and you’re raring to go! The only question left is: how will I get to the airport? Well, you may be one of the lucky ones that can twist a friend’s arm for a lift, but we don’t like your chances if it’s an early morning or late night flight, or if you’re travelling as a family or group. So without the special favours or a flock of carrier pigeons to get you there, you can choose from the three main options.
Skybus
For many Melbourne residents, the Skybus Airport Express is the best transport to the airport. However, how convenient and cost efficient this is depends on whether you are a single, couple, family or travelling in a group, plus it does require extra travel time to get there.
The first leg of the journey begins with a trip to Southern Cross on public transport. Timetables are available online. All passengers must have a valid Myki card when using Melbourne’s public transport network. For information on how to purchase, top up or use a Myki card, click here.
On arrival at Southern Cross Station, Skybus passengers transfer to the bus terminal where Skybuses depart every 10 minutes. For $19 one way or $38 return trip, the Skybus Airport Express is good value for money, particularly if you are travelling as a single or couple. The average trip time from Southern Cross Station to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) is 20 minutes, but you should allow extra time in case of peak traffic. It’s also important to note that in special cases, unexpected delays on the freeways can occur, so allow plenty of time – we’d hate for you to miss your flight!
Photo credit: m.visitmelbourne.com
Skybus Airport Express will drop travellers at Terminal 3 for Virgin Australia, Regional Express, and all international flights, and Terminal 1 for Qantas domestic, Jet Star and QantasLink travellers.
Taxi
Let’s admit we don’t take taxis unless we absolutely have to. “I love taxis”, said no one ever. Unfortunately at some time or another we are all forced to catch a cab. Fingers crossed it’s one of the good ones.
Taxis are just a phone call away, and there are a variety of companies including Yellow Cabs, 13CABS & Silvertop Taxis. When travelling to the airport from a private pick up address, the most convenient and safest way to catch a taxi is to book ahead for a specific day and time. Alternatively, there are taxi queues dotted all around the city and developed areas.
Photo credit: heraldsun.com.au
Alternatively, chauffeur driven cars, such as corporate cabs, luxury cars and limousines, can be comparable on price yet more reliable than a taxi. Many people choose to book chauffeur driven transfers to Melbourne Airport.
Car
For those travelling as a family or group, or travelling from regional areas in Victoria, taking the car to the airport is the obvious choice. The most comfortable and convenient option, your private car allows you to get to the airport in your own time and without the hassle of expensive taxis and long queues. Of course the best time to travel to Melbourne Airport by car is in off-peak periods when traffic is light.
Parking
When choosing to drive and park at the airport, travellers can use Melbourne Airport’s public parking or onsite parking at Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport.
Public Car Parking at Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Airport offers a variety of car parking options, including short term parking – used for airport drop offs and pick ups (hourly or daily rates apply); and long term parking (daily rates & packages). For Melbourne Airport public parking rates.
Photo credit: heraldsun.com.au
Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport Long Term Carpark
Conveniently located at the hotel, Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport’s onsite carpark offers parking for guests staying at the hotel and makes travelling by car to the airport easy.
For just $35 per day or free with selected accommodation promotions, parking at Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport offers the best value for money plus allows you to arrive at your flight feeling rested and relaxed.
Park, Stay & Go
Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport’s Park, Stay & Go Package offers up to 4 days free, onsite parking when you book overnight accommodation. Located just 400 metres from airport terminals, our complimentary airport shuttle transfers hotel guests to the Melbourne Airport.
Including overnight accommodation for up to two adults and two children, soundproof guest rooms, a luxurious pillow menu and premium bedding ensures you and your family can relax and get a good night’s sleep. Perfect for early morning flights.
