Melbourne: Ride For Free In The CBD

Tram travel is free within Melbourne’s CBD and Docklands, but you’ll need a Myki card to travel further afield.

Getting around Melbourne couldn’t be easier with an extensive network of electric trams that provide free travel in the CBD.

Launched in January 2015, the free tram zone is bordered by Spring Street, Flinders Street and La Trobe Street. The free tram route also takes in Victoria Street, William Street and Elizabeth Street as well as the Docklands area.

So there’s no need to swipe if you’re travelling inside this zone. Just hop on and off as many times as you like.

But if you are venturing further afield to St Kilda, Luna Park, Prahran Market, Fitzroy or Collingwood – which all fall outside the free tram zone – you’ll need to buy a Myki Travel Card.

And because the free tram zone ends at Federation Square, you’ll need to get off and walk across the Princes Bridge for attractions like the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), AAMI Park or the National Tennis Centre.

(Or you can swipe on and stay on the tram for one or two stops).

You can buy a Myki card at 7-Eleven stores. Top it up in store, online or at stations with around $20 and it should last three or four days and can be used on trams, trains and buses.

Visitors can also buy a Myki Explorer. The pack comes with a ready-to-use card, handy maps and discounts to some popular attractions.

For a unique experience, climb aboard the historic City Circle tram (pictured) and learn about the history, layout and architecture that has shaped Melbourne.

This free W-Class tram operates on route 35 and provides visitors with an audio commentary detailing city landmarks and major attractions such as Melbourne Aquarium, the Princess Theatre, Parliament House and Federation Square.

City Circle trams operate in both directions between 10am and 6pm Sunday to Wednesday and between 10am and 9pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday, excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday.