For travelers with a layover in Melbourne, the proximity of MBW to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 100 minutes via Bus to Train (Frankston Line), and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Melbourne, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Australia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Melbourne is roughly 100 minutes from MBW via Bus to Train (Frankston Line). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from MBW to Melbourne
You have two main options for getting from Melbourne Moorabbin Airport into town:
- Bus to Train (Frankston Line): About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Melbourne, budget roughly $36 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $17 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at MBW can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Melbourne for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Melbourne, here are two things worth checking out:
St Kilda Beach & Esplanade is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (Melbourne) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MBW, check out Moorabbin Air Museum or Aircraft Observation at Moorabbin Airport to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Chin Chin and Republica St Kilda Beach are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Melbourne.
- At the airport: The Flight Deck Cafe and The Hangar Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MBW has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MBW, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Melbourne itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Australia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Melbourne with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Melbourne may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.