Getting to Melbourne Airport shouldn’t break the bank. Whether flying for business, on holiday, or visiting family, choosing the most cost-effective transport option can save you time and money.
In this guide, we’ll compare Uber, airport parking, public transport, and shuttle services to help you find the cheapest way to get to Melbourne Airport in 2025.
| Transport Option | One-way cost (from CBD) | Travel Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus + Train | $5.30 | 1 hour 45 mins | Budget solo travellers |
| Skybus | $24.60 | 30 - 45 mins | Light luggage, CBD-based travellers |
| Uber (UberX) | $45 - $65 | 25 - 40 mins | 1 - 2 travellers, convenience seekers |
| Airport Parking | From $91.20 a week | 5 - 8 mins to terminals | Families, frequent flyers |
According to Uber’s fare estimates in May 2025, a typical UberX trip from Melbourne CBD to Melbourne Airport costs between $45 and $65, depending on traffic, time of day, and demand.
That comes to a round-trip total of $90 - $130, which isn't necessarily outrageous per se. However, it is costly if you're travelling alone, and it's not the most convenient option if you're travelling with more than 2 people with checked baggage unless you order an Uber XL.
Peak times (early morning, late afternoon, weekends) can cause surge pricing up to 1.5x to 2x the base fare.
Additionally, you may be left waiting for 30 - 40 minutes for your Uber if you are travelling during peak times, public holidays or school breaks, depending on traffic congestion and demand.
You have probably shrugged off the idea of parking at Melbourne Airport due to the high airport parking fees that have only risen in the past year. The good news is, you don't have to settle for these rates.
On-site Melbourne Airport car parks, as of 2025, charge from $15 to $40 per day for long-term parking. You can avoid the rising cost of on-site parking by booking off-site locations that charge $11.40 per day, are 5 - 10 minutes from the terminals, and include on-demand shuttle transfers in the booking price.
According to a 2024 survey by Australian Traveller magazine, over 60% of frequent flyers prefer off-site parking due to cost savings and convenience.
| Car Park | Cost per Week | Service & Transfer Time | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park & Fly Airport Parking | $91.20 | Shuttle: 7 min | Book |
| Jetaway Airport Parking | $100.00 | Shuttle: 10 min | Book |
| A1 Airport Parking | $114.00 | Shuttle: 5 min | Book |
| Melrose Airport Parking | $138.00 | Shuttle: 7 min | Book |
| Quest Melbourne Airport | $160.00 | Shuttle: 5 - 7 min | Book |
| Air Travel Parking | Currently Unavailable | Shuttle: 8 min | Info |
Please note that these rates are subject to change without notice, but were verified in May 2025.
Travellers can take the public bus (PTV) to and from Melbourne Airport by getting on the Craigieburn Line train, getting off at Broadmeadows Station, exiting the station and walking to the bus stop to board the 901 bus to Melbourne Airport (direction: Frankston - Melbourne Airport).
This is one of the most inconvenient ways to travel to and from the airport due to the number of transfers and tickets you buy, but it is the cheapest route. The journey overall will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
A Myki card is required for travel, but can be purchased at any city loop station in the CBD (e.g., Flinders Street, Melbourne Central, Southern Cross).
The Skybus is a low-cost way to and from Melbourne Airport, depending on your location. Travellers can take the Skybus from Southern Cross Station or Spencer Street to Melbourne Airport.
Currently, ticket prices for the Skybus are as follows:
There are currently no direct train routes connecting Melbourne CBD or nearby suburbs to Melbourne Airport. However, a new rail link is in the works, following an agreement between Melbourne Airport and the Albanese and Allan governments.
While an exact timeline hasn’t been confirmed, construction is expected to begin within the next year.
| Traveller Type | Best Option | Cost (round-trip_ | |
| Solo Traveller - 2 Travellers | Uber | From $90 - $130 | |
| 3+ Travellers or Families | Parking at or around the airport | From $91.20 a Week | |
| Budget-conscious traveller willing to spend a bit more for convenience | Skybus | $41.20 | |
| The Ultimate Budget-Conscious | Bus + Train | $10.60 | |
| Frequent Flyers | Parking at the Airport, ask for a loyalty program | From $91.20 a Week |
Taking the public train to Broadmeadows Station and then the 901 bus costs only $5.30, making it the most budget-friendly option.
Yes. Skybus costs $24.60 one-way from Southern Cross Station, vs. $45 - $65 for UberX.
Yes, especially for families or long trips. Off-site lots offer shuttles and much cheaper rates than on-site car parks by the terminal.
Every airport car park on Flyparks is carefully selected for reliability, security, and excellent service.
Verified customer reviews are available for each car park. Simply visit their page and scroll to the 'Reviews' section to help you make an informed choice.
Plans changed? Cancel your reservation free of charge up to 24 hours before it begins (unless otherwise stated).
Booking with Flyparks ensures the same rates as booking directly with the car park, and you can secure your spot in under three minutes.
Flyparks is committed to making airport parking across Australia affordable and stress-free.
Have questions or concerns? Contact us! Our customer service team is here to help and guarantees a reply within 48 hours, Monday - Friday.
