Melbourne Airport guide: parking, food and getting to the city

Everything you need to know about Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

How busy is Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport is one of the busiest airports in Australia. It handles millions of passengers annually, with more than 35 million passengers passing through its terminals in the 2023/24 financial year, according to Australia Pacific Airports Corporation (APAC) data.

It typically ranks as the second-busiest airport in Australia after Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD). Passenger traffic fluctuates, with peak holiday seasons being particularly busy in international terminals.

How do you get to Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport is located about 23km north of the CBD. There are several ways to reach the airport:

1. Car: You can drive via the Tullamarine Freeway (M2) directly to the airport. It takes around 30-40 minutes from the CBD, depending on traffic.
2. SkyBus operates services to and from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport. It offers airport transfers to Southern Cross Station in the CBD, as well as St Kilda, Frankston and surrounding bayside suburbs, and Werribee in Melbourne’s west. RACV Members save on Skybus tickets.
3. Airport Shuttle Services: Various companies offer shuttle services from the city to the airport.
4. Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Melbourne. There’s a designated rideshare pickup area.

Is there a train to Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport doesn't yet have a direct train line to the city. However, there are plans for a Melbourne Airport Rail Link to connect the airport with the city’s rail network. The project is expected to be completed by 2029, according to Melbourne Airport, and will provide a faster and more convenient option for passengers travelling between the airport and the city.

What are the car parking options at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport offers several parking options, catering to short-term, long-term, and premium parking needs:

1. Terminal Car Park: Located close to the terminals, the first 15 minutes is free, which makes it ideal for quick pick-ups and drop-offs. Otherwise, there are short-term rates for stays under six hours. This car park gives you direct access to Terminals 1, 2 and 3 via a link bridge, and is located about100m from Terminal 4.
2. Value Car Park: This is a large parking area with 3,700 spaces. It is further from the terminals, but more economical for longer stays. There is a free 24/7 shuttle buses service that transport you to and from the terminals.
3. Value Express: This is an upgraded service offered at the Value Car Park, if you are in a hurry. Book online, hand over your keys on arrival and an attendant will park your car for you, saving you time searching for a park.
4. Premium Valet Parking: A more luxurious option where you can drop off your car at the terminal entrance, and valet services will take care of the rest.
5. Economy parking: There are several operators close to the airport that offer this affordable offsite option. Choose from undercover and outdoor parking, with fast and free shuttles to and from Melbourne Airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Rather than looking for the cheapest deal, make sure you choose a reputable company where security is paramount to ensure your vehicle is safe at the facility.

RACV Members save up to 10% on airport parking and transfer services when they book through RACV

What shops and dining options are there at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport offers a wide range of shops, dining options, and services, making it a great place to browse and relax before your flight. Here are some statistics about the retail experience:

• Shops: There are more than 200 retail outlets, including fashion stores, duty-free shops, tech gadgets, Australian souvenirs, and more. You'll find international brands as well as Australian retailers.
• Dining: There are various cafes, restaurants, and fast-food options, offering everything from coffee and snacks to sit-down meals. Some popular brands include GELATISSIMO, Hudsons Coffee, The Coffee Emporium, and Qantas' First Class Lounge Dining.

What can I do at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport while I wait for a flight?

• Relax in the lounges: If you have access, Melbourne Airport has various premium lounges including the Qantas Lounge, Virgin Australia Lounge, and other airlines. RACV Members can save on the entry fee to The House at Melbourne Airport, which has stunning views of the runway and beyond. 
• Browse the shops: With so many shops, you can do some last-minute shopping for gifts or personal items.
• Dining options: Explore the food courts or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal.
• Free Wi-Fi: Melbourne Airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals for travellers to stay connected.
• Art displays: The airport is home to some impressive art installations, which can be enjoyed as you wait.

How many runways does Melbourne Tullamarine Airport have?

Melbourne Airport has two intersecting runways, which are operated in different modes in response to wind direction or to reduce aircraft noise impacts.

Plans for Melbourne Airport’s third runway have been submitted to the Australian Government for approval. The proposed new north-south runway will be located 1.3km to the west of the existing north-south runway.

How many terminals are there at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

The terminal complex is located on the east side of the airfield and combines international facilities (Terminal 2) with three domestic terminals (Terminals 1, 3 and 4). This integrated terminal precinct enables Melbourne Airport to provide the shortest minimum connection times between domestic and international flights of all major Australian airports.

There are 85 aircraft parking stands to accommodate the embarkation or disembarkation of passengers, loading or unloading of mail or freight, and fuelling, parking, and maintenance.

How many planes fly out of Melbourne Tullamarine Airport each day?

On average, Melbourne Airport has around 300-350 flights per day, including both domestic and international departures. This number can fluctuate depending on the time of year and specific events. The airport handles flights from major international airlines such as Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, as well as domestic airlines like Virgin Australia and Jetstar.

Can I hire a car at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Car hire services are readily available, making it convenient for travellers who need a rental car for their stay in Melbourne or beyond. Here's what you need to know:

Car hire locations at Melbourne Airport

Car hire companies are located at Terminal 1 (T1 - International), Terminal 2 (T2 - Domestic), and Terminal 3 (T3 - Domestic). The car hire facilities are easy to access and are positioned close to the terminals, so you can pick up your rental car immediately after you arrive.

The rental car companies at Melbourne Airport typically operate from a central Car Rental Village, which is a short walk from the terminals or reachable via a free shuttle bus service. The shuttle buses run frequently and are very convenient for those arriving at the airport.

RACV Members and non-members can hire a car online through RACV, with access to well-known car rental providers such as SIXT, Hertz, Europcar, Thrifty and Dollar Car Rental.

These providers offer a variety of rental options, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, SUVs, electric vehicles (EVs), and larger vehicles like vans. If you’re planning on driving while overseas, you may need an International Driving Permit from RACV, Victoria’s only authorised seller.

RACV Members save on car hire worldwide

How do you book a rental car?

You can book a rental car in several ways:

1. Online: It's often cheaper and more convenient to book your car in advance through the rental company’s website or compare car hire offers from major providers in the one place. If you're an RACV Member you can use your member number to unlock savings, compare rates and book online.
2. At the airport: If you're booking last minute, you can also rent a car directly at the airport, though availability may vary, particularly during peak travel periods.
3. Via travel agencies: Some travel agencies and airport kiosks provide car rental services as well. It's recommended to consider insurance options for your rental. Most car hire companies will offer insurance packages, including basic coverage and more comprehensive options.
   

If you hire a car to travel around Australia, the cost of insurance is usually built into the daily hire cost – but always check the details before you hire. The excess you must pay if the car gets damaged can be very high. Rather than pay the excess waiver offered by the car hire company, you may find it cheaper to get a car hire excess insurance policy.

RACV Members save 15% on RACV Domestic Rental Car Excess#

Can you buy travel insurance at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

It’s recommended that you purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip because it can help provide coverage for certain situations, such as trip cancellations, and reduce the financial impact of potential complications. It’s easy to get a quote and buy travel insurance online.

While you can buy an insurance policy online while waiting for your flight at the airport, you need to be aware that some policies may have a 72-hour waiting period if purchased while already travelling and there may be other limitations.

If you’re travelling within Australia, products such as RACV Domestic Travel Insurance can help with such things as cancellation fees and lost deposits. If you’re planning an overseas adventure, you can get RACV International Travel Insurance for every situation, whether its cruising, visiting multiple countries, and going on a skiing holiday.

RACV Members save 15% on travel insurance policies*

Can you buy a SIM card at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

You can get a SIM card at Melbourne Airport, with several options available, whether you're visiting Australia or need to top up your existing plan.

There are dedicated SIM card kiosks located in T2 and T3 Arrivals, and T4 Baggage Reclaim. These kiosks sell SIM cards from major Australian providers such as Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Relay newsagencies at Melbourne Airport (T1 and T2) also sell SIM cards.

Can you buy duty-free goods at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Yes, Melbourne Airport has several duty-free shops located in its International Terminal (T2). Duty-free shopping is only available to international travellers who are leaving the country or arriving from international flights. You'll need your boarding pass to make purchases. Passengers travelling on domestic flights are not eligible to shop in these stores.

What accommodation is there near Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Flights can be early in the morning, and you might arrive home from overseas late at night, so staying at a nearby hotel can be great option, especially if you’re from regional Victoria. While there are six major hotels located near Melbourne Airport, four of them within walking distance, there are many more economical options a short drive away. 

RACV Members get exclusive pricing on accommodation at selected properties

What are the future plans for Melbourne Tullamarine Airport?

Melbourne Airport is looking at ways to accommodate future growth. It is anticipated that the airport could be dealing with up to 76 million passengers a year by 2042. These are some of the developments outlined by APAC:

1. Melbourne Airport Rail Link: As mentioned earlier, a major rail link project is in progress, expected to be completed by 2029, which will make the airport more accessible from the city.
2. Terminal expansion: There are plans to expand both domestic and international terminals, according to APAC. Security screening technology is being upgraded at Terminal 1, which will mean passengers will no longer need to remove laptops, tablets or aerosols from their carry-on luggage – which is in line with other terminals. There are also new dining and retail offerings being built.
3. Electric vehicles: The airport plans to transition to the use of electric vehicles (EVs) across its precinct and install chargers across various Melbourne Airport car parks for travellers and operational partners.
4. New facilities and services: Other plans include looking at ways to enhance the traveller experience, such as expanding lounge access, improving security processes, and offering more self-check-in kiosks.