If you’ve got a layover in Melbourne, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MEB. The city, in Australia, is within easy reach — roughly 75 minutes by PTV local bus & train services. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave MEB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Australia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Melbourne takes about 75 minutes by PTV local bus & train services. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Exploring Melbourne on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Melbourne, two standouts are:
- Federation Square — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (Melbourne) — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MEB, you can spend time at DFO Essendon or try Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) Essendon Base. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Melbourne Essendon Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Melbourne is the PTV local bus & train services, which takes about 75 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the PTV local bus & train services is usually the smarter call.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Melbourne
If you make it into town, MoVida Next Door is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Hardware Lane Dining (e.g., Il Gambero).
Inside MEB
If you’re staying in the terminal, Mr McCracken is your main option. Nando’s Essendon Airport works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Melbourne might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$17 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$36 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Melbourne.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MEB, 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at MEB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Melbourne itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MEB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MEB 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Melbourne doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from MEB, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.