There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Melbourne into a quick city adventure. From MLB, the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) Bus can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Melbourne, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States 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 70 minutes from MLB via Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Melbourne
If you head into Melbourne, here are two things worth checking out:
Historic Downtown Melbourne is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Melbourne Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MLB, you can spend time at Children’s Play Area or try Coastal Marketplace & Cafe. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Melbourne International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Melbourne International Airport into town:
- Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) Bus: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Melbourne, local travelers recommend Meg O’Malley’s Restaurant & Irish Pub. If you have time for a second stop, Hell ‘n Blazes Brewing Co. is another popular pick.
Back at MLB, Harbor City Diner & Bar is the go-to. Starbucks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Melbourne:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Melbourne, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MLB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MLB 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.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MLB, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Melbourne doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from MLB, 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.