A stopover in Melbourne
SkyBus runs to Southern Cross station in about 30 minutes, around the clock.
Last reviewed November 2026.
| Airport to the centre | about 30 min |
| Typical central 3–4★ hotel | ~$180 / night |
| Airline stopover program | None, but split tickets often work |
With 24–48 hours
- Laneways and arcades in the city centre
- Queen Victoria Market
- St Kilda pier at sunset
Eat: Brunch and a flat white in a café.
Tips
- Leave big bags at the airport's left-luggage desk or your hotel so you can explore right away.
- With separate tickets, give yourself at least one night between flights.
- Check whether your passport needs a visa or travel authorisation to leave the airport.
Melbourne stopover: questions
How long does it take to get from the airport into Melbourne?
About 30 minutes to the centre. SkyBus runs to Southern Cross station in about 30 minutes, around the clock.
How much is a hotel for a Melbourne stopover?
Plan on roughly $180 a night for a well-reviewed, central 3–4★ hotel. Prices rise with events and peak season, so check the live rate for your dates.
Is there a free stopover program in Melbourne?
No airline runs a stopover program here, but two separate tickets through Melbourne often work. Leave at least one night between flights.
What can you do in Melbourne with 24 hours?
Laneways and arcades in the city centre. Queen Victoria Market. St Kilda pier at sunset.
What should I eat on a Melbourne stopover?
Brunch and a flat white in a café. With one night, make dinner the local meal and keep breakfast near the hotel so you're not rushed back to the airport.
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Melbourne?
It depends on your passport. Check whether you need a visa or an electronic travel authorisation for Australia before you book, and allow time for immigration and security on the way back.
Routes where Melbourne is on the way
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