Melbourne is one of the few cities in the world to offer a "Free Tram Zone," which is arguably the greatest perk for any traveler. As long as you remain within this designated area, your travel is completely free. Read this article to master how to navigate Melbourne for free and make the most of your trip!
What is the Melbourne Free Tram Zone?
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The Free Tram Zone covers the majority of the Melbourne City Centre (CBD), including major thoroughfares like Flinders Street, La Trobe Street, Spring Street, and the Docklands area. As long as you both get on and get off within this zone, your tram travel is completely free. You do not need to tap on or off with your Myki card. This applies to all tram routes—not just specific numbers or vintage trams. Whether you are riding the 35 (City Circle), 86, 96, or 109, as long as your journey stays within the Free Tram Zone, it is 100% free!
For independent travelers, this is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to get around the city, easily connecting major landmarks, shopping districts, and dining hotspots.
Operating Hours:
Melbourne’s trams typically begin service between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM and most routes continue running until approximately 12:00 AM (midnight).
Melbourne Public Transport: The Free Tram Zone Map
Melbourne's Free Trams – a product of history
Melbourne’s transport system features a fantastic "Free Tram Zone." Within this area, you don’t need to tap on or off with a Myki card—just hop on and go!
The Free Tram Zone is located in the heart of Melbourne, covering the main business, shopping, and tourist districts. You can ride the tram for free along these major streets and areas:
- Flinders Street: Flinders Street Station is one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks. Most attractions are centered around here, making it a must-visit photo spot for first-time travelers.
- Elizabeth Street: This route takes you to Melbourne Central and the State Library of Victoria, all within the free zone.
- La Trobe Street: A shopper's paradise, this street is lined with countless restaurants, shops, and malls.
- Docklands: The Free Tram Zone also extends to the Docklands area, known for its modern architecture, dining, and entertainment.
- Queen Victoria Market: Highly recommended by locals, this market offers fresh local delicacies. It’s a place I find worth revisiting time and time again.
How to Visit Must-See Landmarks in Melbourne Free Tram Zone?
Want to explore the best of Melbourne without spending a cent on transport? Then you cannot miss the Free Tram Zone in the city centre! This zone covers the entire Melbourne CBD—as long as you board and hop off within the zone, every tram route is completely free of charge.
This area is a treasure trove of the city’s most exciting cultural landmarks, vibrant street art, historic architecture, and premier shopping hotspots. It is the perfect starting point for any traveler exploring Melbourne. Best of all, these 3 iconic attractions can all be easily reached by a quick (and free!) tram ride.
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Federation Square
Located at the intersection of Flinders Street and Swanston Street, Federation Square is one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks. Officially opened on October 26, 2002, this cultural plaza is renowned for its striking asymmetrical geometric design, a unique fusion of steel, glass, and sandstone, and its innovative construction built over a former railway yard.
The square serves as a vibrant stage for multicultural events and public art. It is home to major cultural institutions, including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, and the Melbourne Visitor Information Centre. As a popular hub for outdoor festivals and community events, its design and public utility have earned widespread acclaim, leading to its inclusion on the Victorian Heritage Register. It remains the true urban heart where locals and tourists come together.
Available Tram Routes: 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Flinders Street Station
St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Melbourne’s most iconic Gothic Revival landmarks and the largest church of its kind in Victoria. The construction was a monumental journey that spanned several decades: work began in 1858, the nave was completed and opened for service in 1868, and the two spires along with the final architectural elements were finally finished in 1939.
Built with a striking bluestone exterior, the cathedral is famous for its soaring spires and exquisite stained-glass windows. Inside, the historic pipe organ and exceptional acoustics make it a premier venue for concerts, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The cathedral precinct is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, reflecting its profound architectural and historical significance. Stepping inside, visitors can truly feel the deep connection between history and spirituality woven into the fabric of the building.
Available Tram Routes: 11, 12, 109
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Block Arcade & Royal Arcade
Melbourne Transport Fares
Transdev and John Holland win contract for Yarra Trams
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Understanding the 3 Zones
Melbourne’s transport system is divided into different zones, and fares vary depending on where you travel. Zones are typically categorized as Zone 1, 2, and 3 based on their distance from the city. The further you travel across zones, the more expensive the fare.
- Zone 1: Generally covers the city center (CBD) and its immediate surrounding inner suburbs.
- Zone 2: Generally covers areas further out from the city center.
- Zone 3: Generally includes outer suburbs and areas more distant from the city.
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Pay-as-you-go: Myki Money
Single Fare (Myki Money)
2-Hour Fare | Zone 1 + 2 | Zone 2 |
Full Fare | $5.50 | $3.50 |
Concession | $2.75 | $1.75 |
Daily Cap (Myki Money)
Daily Fare Cap | Zone 1 + 2 | Zone 2 |
Full Fare | $11.00 | $7.00 |
Concession | $5.50 | $3.50 |
- Single Trip Fares: Prices start from AU$3.50 for a single trip, with children’s tickets at half price. This is ideal for short-term tourists—simply top up at a machine when your balance is low. This is also the option I personally used.
- Daily Fare Cap: There is a maximum daily charge, meaning your third trip of the day is essentially free. I highly recommend grouping attractions located in paid zones into the same day to save on costs.
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Commuter Passes: Myki Pass
For permanent residents or frequent commuters, Melbourne offers 7-day, 28-day, and 365-day passes.
7-Day Pass (Suitable for short-term travelers)
7-Day Rate | Zone 1+2 | Zone 2 |
Full Fare | $55.00 | $35.00 |
Concession | $27.50 | $17.50 |
28-Day to 1-Year Pass
The daily rate is multiplied by the number of days required for the Myki Pass. When purchasing a 326–365 day pass, you only pay for 325 days, effectively giving you 40 days for free.
Daily Rate (28-365 Days) | Zone 1 + 2 | Zone 2 Only |
Full Fare | $6.60 | $4.20 |
Concession | $3.30 | $2.10 |
Please check the official PTV website for the most up-to-date rates and regulations.
Melbourne Transport Card: Myki Card
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Where to Buy a Myki Card?
You can purchase a Myki Card at Melbourne’s train stations, tram stops (major ones), bus terminals, and the airport. They are also widely available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
How Much does a Myki Card Cost?
There are four types of Myki cards: Adult, Concession, Child, and Senior.
Note for Tourists: International visitors usually only qualify for Adult or Child fares. Local concessions (students/seniors) generally require an Australian-issued concession card.
Card Type | Card Fee (AUD) | Age Range |
Adult | $6 | 18+ years old |
Youth / Child | $5 | 5 – 17 years old |
Toddler | Free | Under 5 years old (No card needed) |
What is the Minimum Top-up Amount
The minimum top-up is usually $10. You can top up at any train station, Myki machine, or convenience store. You can also register your card online to enable Auto Top-up, which ensures you never run out of balance.
Can I Get a Refund for my Balance?
Yes, but it is complicated. Refunds are typically processed into an Australian bank account, and the process can be slow and tedious.
- Pro-tip: Don't top up too much at once. If you have a few dollars left at the end of your trip, it’s often easier to just let it go.
Is a Physical Card mandatory? Can I use a credit card?
As of early 2026, a Myki (physical or mobile) is still the primary way to pay.
While "Tap and Go" (direct credit card payment) is currently being rolled out across the network, it is not yet available at every single touch-point.
- Android Users: You can use Mobile Myki via Google Wallet. You don't need a physical card; just tap your phone.
- iPhone Users: While you can use the PTV App to manage your account and top up via Apple Pay, direct "Tap on" with an iPhone is still in the final rollout phase (check local station signs for the "Tap and Go" symbol).
Can I use Myki in Sydney or Brisbane?
No. Each state in Australia has its own system.
- Sydney: Uses the Opal Card (or direct Credit Card/Apple Pay).
- Brisbane: Uses the Go Card.
You will need to use their specific systems when visiting those cities.
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Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Melbourne Transport Apps
Transport for Victoria — PassageWay Smart Digital Signs
Here are three recommended transport apps to make your trip around Melbourne much smoother:
1. PTV (Public Transport Victoria)
The official PTV app is your "all-in-one" shop. It provides real-time schedules for trains, trams, buses, and ferries. You can also use it to check your Myki Card balance and top up instantly.
2. Google Maps
Google Maps navigation is highly accurate in Melbourne. It is the best tool for planning multi-mode routes (e.g., walking to a bus stop, then catching a train). I personally use Google Maps for most of my daily trip planning.
3. Waze
An essential app if you plan on driving. Waze is famous for its real-time alerts on speed cameras, police presence, and road hazards. It works best when paired with Google Maps for overall navigation.
4. Trip.com
Trip.com is an excellent all-around travel platform for booking Melbourne airport transfers, rental cars, and even regional train tickets (like the V/Line to Great Ocean Road or Ballarat). It often offers exclusive discounts on local attractions and is a great way to manage all your bookings in one place.
Free Tram Zone Melbourne | Car Rental
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FAQs about Free Tram Zone Melbourne
Where are the free tram zones in Melbourne?
Free Tram Zone Melbourne Map
1. Flinders Street (between Spring Street and La Trobe Street)
2. Spring Street (between Bourke Street and La Trobe Street)
3. La Trobe Street (between Spencer Street and Flinders Street)
4. Bourke Street (between Spencer Street and Elizabeth Street)Are Melbourne trams free for tourists?
The City Circle Tram service provides a free and convenient way to get around central Melbourne. Tourists, shoppers, families and city workers can use the City Circle Tram to travel to major attractions, restaurants, shops and city events.Is Queen Victoria Market within the free tram zone?
The Market is located within the free tram zone. Take the 19, 57, 58 or 59 routes to Elizabeth, Victoria or Peel Streets.