By train

Victoria has a fast, efficient and user-friendly train system. Flinders Street Station, on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets, is the hub of Melbourne’s train system, and all trains begin or end their journey there. Melbourne also has an underground train system, known as the City Loop, with five stations servicing the CBD.

In Melbourne, services run from 5am until midnight. You can pick up train route maps at any City Loop station.

Tickets, called Metcards, can be pre-purchased from premium train stations and stores displaying a Metcard sign and are interchangeable for use on all metropolitan public transport. Fares are based on duration and distance, with metropolitan Melbourne divided into three zones.

For comprehensive public transport and timetable information and to buy tickets, visit the Metlink website www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au.

By tram

Melbourne’s trams and light rail service give the city a distinctive character and provide a scenic way to explore the city and inner suburbs. Travelling along most of Melbourne’s major thoroughfares, trams operate down the centre of the road, stopping at every CBD intersection and then every two or three blocks once in the suburbs.

Services run regularly from 5am until midnight Monday to Saturday and from 7am to 11pm Sundays. Many tram services link up to bus and train routes so you can negotiate your way to most places in Melbourne within a short walk from a train, tram or bus.

Passengers can board trams at signposted stops on the side of the road and from central islands in the CBD.

The distinctive burgundy and gold City Circle tram provides a free and convenient way to move around the city centre, passing a number of sights and attractions including NewQuay dining and entertainment precinct. Running along Flinders Street, Harbour Esplanade, La Trobe Street and Spring Street, the full journey takes nearly 50 minutes. Visitors can hop on and off as often as desired.

By bus

Melbourne’s bus network is extensive, and buses service areas and major arterial roads where trams and trains do not operate.

While it's best to pre-purchase your ticket before travelling, a limited range of tickets may also be purchased onboard from the driver. For bus information, timetables and fares, visit the Metlink website www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au.

By taxi

Melbourne taxis are numerous and easy to spot – most are yellow. Cabs often wait in designated ranks that are clearly signposted at central locations, like major hotels in the CBD, or busy spots such as Flinders Street Station. You can also hail a taxi in the street. If the rooftop light is illuminated, it means the taxi is available.