Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) is about 23 km from the CBD. There is no direct train, so you choose between taxi, SkyBus, ride share, rental car, or a private shuttle. The best option depends on budget, group size, luggage, and time.
This guide compares every option with real prices and practical details.
Quick comparison table
| Option | Typical cost to CBD | Time | Door to door | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-price taxi | $82 | 25 to 40 min | Yes | Groups, luggage, time sensitive trips |
| Metered taxi | $65 to $95 | 25 to 40 min | Yes | Off peak arrivals without pre booking |
| SkyBus | $24.60 | 30 min plus connection | No | Solo travelers to CBD |
| Ride share | $60 to $120 | 25 to 45 min | Yes | Off peak deals if no surge |
| Rental car | $45 to $80 per day plus fuel | 25 min drive | Yes | Regional trips and road trips |
Option 1: Fixed-price taxi
How it works: Book online, get a guaranteed price, driver meets you at the pre booked pickup area.
Typical costs:
- Melbourne CBD: $82
- St Kilda, South Yarra: $104 to $110
- Brighton, Caulfield: $111 to $116
Best for:
- Groups of three or more
- Lots of luggage
- Late night or early morning flights
- Destinations outside the CBD
Why people choose it: You know the price before you book. Tolls and fees are included. No surge pricing.
Check fares here: Melbourne Airport fixed-price fares.
Option 2: Metered taxi
How it works: Join the taxi rank outside arrivals. The meter runs and tolls are added.
Typical range to CBD: $65 to $95 depending on traffic.
Best for:
- Off peak arrivals
- Short trips to nearby suburbs
- Travelers who prefer not to pre book
Metered fares can be cheaper in light traffic but can climb in peak hour. For price certainty, fixed-price fare is usually better.
Option 3: SkyBus
How it works: Direct bus from the airport to Southern Cross Station.
Cost: $24.60 one way, about $40 return.
Important: SkyBus only goes to Southern Cross. You need a tram, train, or taxi connection for most destinations.
Best for:
- Solo travelers to the CBD
- Light luggage
- Daytime arrivals
For a direct comparison, see Taxi vs SkyBus.
Option 4: Ride share (Uber, DiDi)
How it works: Book in the app and meet the driver at the ride share pickup zone.
Cost: Highly variable due to surge pricing. Off peak can be $55 to $75. Peak times can exceed $100.
Best for:
- Travelers who check the app and see no surge
- People with app credits or vouchers
If the price is high, a fixed-price taxi often costs less and is more predictable.
Option 5: Rental car
How it works: Pick up at the airport and drive yourself.
Best for:
- Road trips and regional travel
- Groups splitting the cost
- Visitors staying outside the CBD with parking included
Not ideal for:
- CBD only stays (parking is expensive and traffic is heavy)
Which option should you choose?
Use these simple rules:
- Solo, CBD, budget focused: SkyBus
- Group of three or more: Fixed-price taxi
- Outer suburbs: Fixed-price taxi
- Off peak, no pre booking: Metered taxi
- Regional road trip: Rental car
FAQ
Is there a train to Melbourne Airport?
No direct train currently. All options involve road transport.
Is SkyBus always the cheapest?
Only for solo travelers going to the CBD. Groups often pay less per person in a taxi.
Do fixed-price taxis include tolls?
Yes. The price shown includes tolls and standard fees.
Final takeaway
If you want the lowest ticket price, SkyBus wins for solo travelers to the CBD. If you want door to door service, predictable pricing, or you are traveling with a group, a fixed-price taxi is usually the best value.
To lock in a price now, use the fare tables: