How to Get From Sydney to Melbourne? 4 Ways Explained

Author's Profile Picture
Sydney to Melbourne
Travelling directly between Australia's two largest and most popular cities, Sydney and Melbourne? There are several different ways you can go about it, from booking a direct flight between the two cities to planning an epic road trip along the coast. In this article, we'll look at all of the different methods of moving between the two cities, how much it costs, and all the logistical information you need for your journey.

Sydney to Melbourne: How to Get There? 4 Ways Compared

Transport Mode

Travel Time

Estimated Cost (AUD)

Best For

Plane

~1.5 hours

$70 – $250+

Speed. The fastest and easiest option for most travellers.

Train

~11 hours

$80 – $130

Slow travel. The countryside without the driving, and no need to watch the road.

Bus 

~12–13 hours

$70 – $135

Budget. The cheapest option, and an overnight service saves a night's accommodation.

Road Trip

9 hours direct (Hume) / 3–5 days (coastal)

$200 – $300+ (fuel + car hire)

Adventure. For anyone who wants to explore Australia’s coastal towns and beaches.

For most people, the easiest way to get to Melbourne from Sydney is to fly. It’s fast, and surprisingly good value once you’ve considered losing a day to travel on the road or rails. But life is meant to be lived, and a road trip from Sydney to Melbourne is the one I’d argue hardest for if you’ve got some extra time to play with, as you’ll discover plenty of beautiful spots along the way. 

Sydney to Melbourne: How to Get There? 4 Ways Compared

🎁 Book the Cheapest Flights to Melbourne | Browse Melbourne Hotels | Grab a Melbourne eSIM before you fly! 

Flying from Sydney to Melbourne: The Fastest Way

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by Flight

The flight from Sydney to Melbourne takes about 1 hour 35 minutes. This is actually one of the busiest routes in the world, with about 60 or so departures a day to choose from, so you can leave when you like. 

All flights from Sydney will depart from either Terminal 2 or Terminal 3 at Sydney Airport. 

Which Airport in Melbourne Is Closer to the City?

For your arrival into Melbourne, there are actually two different airports: Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) and Avalon Airport (AVV). 

Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine - MEL) is the one you want. It's about 20 km from the centre and handles most flights. Avalon looks cheaper on paper, but it's 55 km out, so a bargain fare into AVV can lose its shine once you're paying to get into town.

How to Get to Sydney Airport from the City Centre?

Getting out to the Sydney Airport from the city centre is easy; unlike Melbourne, there's a train straight to the terminals.

Mode

Duration

Cost (AUD)

Best For

Airport Link (train)

~13 min

~$19 – $23

Speed. Runs from Central, bypasses traffic.

Rideshare (Uber/Didi)

20–30 min

$35 – $55

Door to door. Splits well for 3 to 4 people.

Taxi

20–30 min

$45 – $60

Convenience, no app needed.

Public bus + train

45–60 min

~$4 – $6

Budget. Avoids the airport station access fee, although there you'll have to transfer.

How to Get to Melbourne City Centre from the Airport?

The best option from getting to the city centre from Melbourne Airport is the SkyBus. Melbourne, unfortunately, still doesn’t have a train to the airport.

Melbourne Airport (MEL) SkyBus Express Ticket
Melbourne Airport (MEL) SkyBus Express Ticket
4.8/5
93 reviews
After leaving the airport, you can walk to the bus into the city. It's not hard to find, but it's a good idea to buy your ticket online beforehand. Just scan the QR code with the staff before boarding the bus.
Melbourne SkyBus City Express Airport Transfer
Melbourne SkyBus City Express Airport Transfer
4.8/5
179 reviews
Great value and time saver. Very easy to use.

Mode

Duration

Cost (AUD)

Best For

SkyBus

30–45 min

~$24

Solo travellers and couples. Frequent and reliable.

Uber / Didi

25–40 min

$55 – $75

Door to door. Splits well for 2–3 people.

Public transport

60–90 min

~$5.70

Budget option, but you’ll need a Myki card and to transfer.

Private transfer

25–40 min

$90+

Families or groups. A driver meets you, no fuss.

How to Get to Melbourne CBD from the Airport

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney | Road Trip

There are two different routes you can take in the car from Sydney to Melbourne, each wildly different from one another.

Sydney to Melbourne on the Hume Highway

The quickest way from Sydney to Melbourne is to drive straight down the Hume Highway (M31), which is 878km long and roughly a 9-hour drive. I’ve done the drive many times (starting from my home in Canberra), and as far as long drives go in Australia, it’s nice and easy, with plenty of rest stops and service stations along the route for a break. And while there are some nice stretches, it’s not a route that will win a beauty contest. 

I’ve always done it in one day, although that's coming to and from Canberra. My sister with her kids driving from Melbourne split the drive up with an overnight stay at Albury-Wodonga, a sensible option on the border between NSW and Victoria. I als

Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

The other option is to drive along the east coast, which feels like a completely different world altogether. The Princes Highway (A1) and the Grand Pacific Drive run about 1,040 km down the New South Wales south coast and into Victoria. It's single lane each way for much of it, so not nearly as fast as driving along the Hume. But that’s the point, as you’ll probably want to stop at a few places along the way to explore. You could easily fill three to five days along this route, exploring a stunning stretch of Australian coast. 

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by Road Trip

Heading south out of Sydney, your potential road trip could look something like this: 

Sydney → Royal National Park → Sea Cliff Bridge (Grand Pacific Drive) → Wollongong → Kiama → Jervis Bay → Batemans Bay → Narooma → Merimbula & Eden (Sapphire Coast) → cross into Victoria → Lakes Entrance → Wilsons Promontory → Melbourne.

Five days is the sweet spot if you want the beaches and the odd national park without spending the whole time behind the wheel. 

I did a section of the drive from Sydney to Batemans Bay a few years ago with a friend visiting from overseas, and we both loved it. Jervis Bay was a highlight, as was Kiama for its blowhole. I’ve also made plenty of stops at Lakes Entrance before, a nice little town to spend a night on the coast.

🎁 New to Trip.com? If you’re driving to Melbourne, grab 8% off your first car rental and hit the road for less as a welcome pressie for joining the Trip.com family!

Car Rentals
Car Rental Promo Code - 8% Off
New User Enjoy up to 8% Off
TRIPCAR8

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by Train

Taking the train from Sydney to Melbourne is a comfortable experience, but not a high-speed journey by any means. It runs from Sydney's Central Station to Southern Cross in Melbourne in around 11 hours on average, twice a day, on a day service and an overnight one.

You get Economy and First Class seating, a buffet car, and sleeper cabins on the night train. The overnight service is the smart pick if you'd rather not lose a day, and it saves you a night's accommodation in either Sydney or Melbourne.

Australians are less than enthusiastic about their rail system, especially when compared to the high-speed options available in Europe and Asia. But as a visitor, it’s a nice choice if you want to watch the rural scenery unfold outside the window without the pressure of driving yourself. In my opinion, it’s also the best option if you want to get a sense of the scale of Australia.

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by Train

🎁Need to stay connected in Melbourne? Don't miss out on these high-speed eSIM plans for Australia!

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by Bus

How to Get to Melbourne from Sydney by bus

If you're travelling Australia on a budget, getting the bus from Sydney to Melbourne is the way to go. It’s a favourite with backpackers who just want to move between cities and anyone happy to travel overnight to skip a hotel bill.

Sydney to Melbourne by Bus: Overview

Feature

Details

Primary operator

Greyhound Australia (Firefly Express and FlixBus also run the route)

Duration

12 to 13.5 hours

Estimated cost

$70 to $135 AUD (cheaper booked in advance)

Departure point

Central Station coach terminal (Sydney CBD)

Arrival point

Southern Cross Station (Melbourne CBD)

Why Choose the Bus?

  • It’s the cheapest option. Catching the bus is consistently the lowest fare, unless you get a really good deal on a flight. But even then, you’ll have to factor in the cost of travelling to and from the airports. 
  • You can save money on a hotel. There are buses that make the journey overnight. I’ve taken one, and found that I slept pretty well thanks to the comfortable seats designed for long-haul travel. 
  • Decent amenities. The buses nowadays will have Wi-Fi, USB charging at the seat, reclining seats and an onboard toilet.
  • Leg stretches. Buses stop at regional hubs like Albury or Canberra, so you're not stuck in the seat the whole way. Always nice to be able to hop out, grab a drink, and stretch your legs before continuing.

Melbourne Hotels

5 star

8.9/10Very Good326 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.59km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent. Being in the free zone, there are different tram lines passing by both in front and behind the hotel, making it incredibly convenient to get anywhere. 👍 Although the hotel is quite old, the facilities are well-maintained, 👍 clean and hygienic. 👍 The rooms are also very bright and spacious. To my surprise, when I first entered the room, there was a welcome message on the TV screen! 🤗 What I appreciated most was the large round table, where the whole family could sit together and eat. 👏👏👏 However, there were only two dining chairs, plus the computer chair, so we were still short one chair. On our first day, we tried calling housekeeping for a long time, but no one answered. We then called the front desk, who said they would follow up, but nothing came of it. On the third day, because we needed more toilet paper, we called the front desk again. A staff member brought the tissue, and we also mentioned that we needed an extra dining chair. That staff member called someone who seemed to be from the engineering department. He checked the style of the existing chairs and then brought over a chair of the same style. 🙏 It turns out they had to match the style! 😅 One thing to note is that even though the bathroom has a wet/dry separation, water easily splashes out of the bathtub when showering, getting the floor wet. I highly recommend the steakhouse downstairs, 7 Alfred – it's absolutely delicious! 😋
From£ 95
9.2/10Great523 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.59km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent, and the amenities are comprehensive. There are plenty of dining and shopping options nearby. The room was spacious and bright, spotlessly clean, and the bedding was soft and comfortable. The front desk staff were warm and professional, making check-in efficient and quick. They also thoughtfully introduced us to local attractions. The breakfast spread was varied and delicious.
From£ 154
9.1/10Great254 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.62km from downtown
The hotel's location is superb, right outside you'll find all the major luxury brands. The room facilities are relatively new, the environment is good, and the bathroom is very spacious with a separate wet and dry area. The front desk staff were very enthusiastic and even gave the kids Coca-Cola.
From£ 119
8.8/10Very Good196 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.71km from downtown
Facilities: The swimming pool is very basic, and the gym only has two or three old pieces of equipment. There's no separate changing room or shower, so you have to change in the restroom. But then again, it's an older hotel, so that's understandable. Cleanliness: The cleanliness was pretty good, I think there were no issues. Environment: The location is great, and the surrounding area is nice. We walked to many places in Melbourne city center. It's only a few minutes' walk to Chinatown, and about a ten to fifteen-minute walk to bustling streets with bubble tea shops and fried chicken places. Service: The service was excellent. The front desk staff member who checked us in on the day of arrival seemed to be Japanese. Since my English isn't very good, we communicated using a face-to-face translator. He was very patient and didn't show any annoyance. I also told him that I would have a package delivered to the hotel that day, and he said he would receive it for me.
From£ 127
8.7/10Very Good345 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.19km from downtown
I was very disappointed with my experience at Pullman Melbourne, particularly with the housekeeping service and the way an unauthorised charge was handled. Although the hotel staff were generally friendly and pleasant, I was extremely concerned to discover that my credit card had been charged an additional amount without any prior notice or explanation at checkout. The hotel claimed that my sister had ordered a drink at 6:38 am. We strongly disputed this, as both of us were still asleep in the room at that time. I asked the hotel to check the CCTV footage and the electronic swipe-card records to verify whether our room door had actually been opened before 9:00 am. Given that the room uses an electronic key-card system, it should have been relatively straightforward for the hotel to establish whether anyone had entered or left the room. More importantly, this raises serious questions about the hotel’s billing and security procedures. Can someone simply provide a room number and order food or drinks without the hotel verifying the guest’s name or identity? If so, this is a significant weakness in the hotel’s procedures. Guests should not be held responsible for charges that they did not authorise, especially when the hotel has electronic records that could potentially verify what happened. I was particularly disappointed that the matter was not handled with greater care and transparency. An unexpected charge to a guest’s credit card should never be taken lightly. For a hotel of the Pullman standard, I expected much better attention to detail, billing accuracy and guest security. I hope management takes this incident seriously and reviews its procedures so that other guests do not experience the same issue.
From£ 98

Show more

Business travel

8.9/10Very Good643 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.35km from downtown
i got the corner room which i feel is certainly sizeable for my room type. the room is clean and up to my standards, including the bedsheets and duvet. in terms of location, it's in the heart of the cbd and an absolute bargain for the price point. it's about a 2-3 minute walk from the tram stop but do take note it's a slight uphill, nothing crazy though. there's also food options just below the hotel which is extremely convenient. the service is excellent with friendly staff. in terms of amenities, it has the basics - cups, towels, etc. the water heater seems a little faulty as it fluctuates between cool and warm but again, this is something i find manageable.
From£ 55
8.7/10Very Good562 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.74km from downtown
Location: easy 3-6 min walk to Southern Cross station and the skybus station which made reaching the hotel from melbourne airport extremely convenient (~40 mins). It's close to many cozy and prolific cafés for breakfast/brunch, lunch. Ease of access to gift shops, electronics, and post boxes as well. Amenities: Gym is available. Laundry with washers and dryers are also available but prepare coins. Security: Staffed during the day, and the automatic doors in the main hotel entrance could only be opened with keycards at night. Good safety. Service: Hospitable staff. Had issues with my room and they were happy to assist. Room: I booked the single room. Quaint and tiny. Room's very dark and quiet at night. Great sleep. Bathroom is equipped with heat lamps and exhaust fans which made super comfortable for a winter stay. Didn't use the AC much but I tried it out just to see that it worked. Runs well even though it's a bit noisy if you're sleeping. Towels and sheets mostly clean. I noticed some stains on the bedding once but otherwise good.
From£ 47
9/10Great437 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.54km from downtown
1. The hotel's location is excellent. It's in the city center, and you can reach any attraction within a 10-15 minute walk or by taking the free light rail. 2. The rooms are well-equipped with basic amenities. Both rooms were spacious, and the beds were very comfortable. The hotel has coin-operated washing machines and dryers. In the room, there's a TV, refrigerator, microwave, kettle, and cutlery. There was plenty of space for our luggage and a stroller, even for our group of four, which included a 4-year-old child. 3. We stayed for two nights. After the first night, there was only about a third of the toilet paper left, and the cleaning staff didn't replenish it in the morning. We had to use our own tissues midway through, which was a bit inconvenient.
From£ 95
8.8/10Very Good176 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.23km from downtown
We recently stayed at Novotel Melbourne on Little Collins, and overall had a comfortable and convenient experience. The biggest highlight is definitely the excellent location in the heart of Melbourne CBD. It’s very easy to get around, with plenty of shopping, dining, and attractions within walking distance. We arrived earlier than check-in time, and the staff kindly allowed us to store our luggage, which made things much easier. We were also offered a discounted breakfast option during check-in, which was a nice touch. The gym facilities were well-maintained, and we enjoyed using them during our stay. The room was a bit more compact compared to other hotels we stayed at during this trip, but still clean and functional. Although we had requested a higher floor, we were assigned a lower-level room, which currently faces some construction. One thing to note is that the lift system can be slightly inconvenient, as the reception is on Level 3 and requires a transfer between lifts. There were also a few instances where the lift didn’t respond as expected. Additionally, there isn’t a self-service laundry facility available. Overall, despite a few minor inconveniences, we enjoyed our stay—especially because of the prime location and helpful service.
From£ 87
8.7/10Very Good89 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.19km from downtown
The location of the Hotel are on a good spot, where are really close to tram. So you don’t have to walk yourself to dead. The room was cleaned. However, there are only a few things for me to point out. One issue that has been quite frustrating is the room keycard. It has made it a bit inconvenient to access the elevator.
From£ 80

Show more

Family friendly

8.7/10Very Good432 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|1km from downtown
Mixed Experience: Great property, but terrible front desk service and communication I recently stayed at this property, and while the physical facilities and overall environment were quite lovely, my stay was completely tarnished by a deeply unpleasant interaction with the front desk team on my final day. Out of nowhere, I received a phone call from a male staff member demanding to know why I hadn't checked out. His tone was extremely unfriendly, defensive, and accusatory. When I politely explained that my booking was confirmed through the following day, instead of simply double-checking their own records, he insisted their system showed otherwise and rudely demanded that I come down immediately, threatening that we would be removed from the property if I didn't. When I went down to the front desk with my confirmation in hand, it turned out to be an internal error on their end. While they did eventually offer a resolution to fix their mistake, the male staff member never even bothered to offer a basic apology for his aggressive attitude, false accusation, or the disruption caused to my stay. Accusing a paying guest of overstaying and threatening eviction due to a fault in your own system—without even saying ”sorry”—is completely unacceptable and highly unprofessional. It is a real shame because the hotel itself is nice, clean, and well-located. However, customer service is about how you handle issues when they arise, and the front desk staff’s lack of courtesy, accountability, and basic manners left a very bitter taste in my mouth. I hope management addresses this staff member's behavior and system communication errors, as guests deserve to be treated with respect, not hostility.
From£ 59
9/10Great43 Reviews
Carlton|0.34km from downtown
Crowne Plaza Carlton hotel location pretty good with easy access to the tram line to explore the city though just outside the free tram service CBD & walking distance to Victoria Market & University of Melbourne. The rooms are reasonable in size though housekeeping services not too prompt. Breakfast venue pretty good & order cooked breakfast. Generally enjoyed our stay at the hotel
From£ 91
8.7/10Very Good443 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.27km from downtown
The location was awesome, and the check-in trainee was lovely, but that was about where the positives ended. Whilst rennovation work is clearly happening in the building, the apartment block still feels old and run-down, and the quick refurbs inside the room felt cheap and poorly maintained. The room was impossible to decompress in. The shower had red and black mold, and the clear shower head meant starting every morning staring at a filthy, dirty filter. Finding a comfortable water temperature was a constant battle. The windows were filthy, and between the loud sports bar downstairs, rowdy drunks in the nearby alley, and a massive HVAC unit or exhaust system droning on a neighboring building, getting any uninterrupted sleep was out of the question. Every afternoon, an overwhelming, lingering smell like heavy restaurant exhaust filled the space, forcing me to leave the AC running 24/7 just to make the air feel bearable. Combined with the stained carpets and not feeling comfortable enough to drink the tap water with no other options provided, the whole experience just felt yuck. The fantastic location was the only saving grace, if only because it gave me a good reason to force myself out of an uncomfortable room despite being exhausted.
From£ 100
8.7/10Very Good230 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.88km from downtown
Staying at The Windsor Hotel was the highlight of our Melbourne trip. The hotel, over a hundred years old, exudes a classic British style both inside and out, featuring many antique items and fixtures. Walking through it, you can truly feel the weight of history. The room decor is relatively simple, with exceptionally high ceilings and a separate walk-in closet. The bathroom is quite new, spacious, and bright. The heating in our room wasn't working, so after a staff member checked it, they brought us a small space heater as a temporary solution, which was fine as Melbourne winters aren't too cold. What truly impressed us was the hotel breakfast. While not the most lavish, it was very distinctive, served as an à la carte set menu. It included juice, coffee or tea, and a main course. The server would also bring a bread basket of the day for you to choose from. There were several main course options, and my partner and I tried six different ones over three days, always leaving feeling very full. If you get there early enough, you can snag a window seat with a view of the street pedestrians and Parliament House across the way. The morning sun streaming through the glass made the whole experience golden and warm, bathing us in sunlight as we enjoyed breakfast – pure bliss.
From£ 92
9.4/10Amazing181 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.34km from downtown
The location is excellent, within walking distance to the Royal Arcade, State Library, Flinders Street Station, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Plus, tours pick up just 500 meters from the hotel, which is super convenient. The Hilton's interior is exquisite. We got a great deal during the off-peak season, though the price was a bit higher during our stay due to Melbourne's carnival and racing events. Some toiletries aren't provided, but you can always ask the front desk. Daily housekeeping was spotless.
From£ 130

Show more

Hot spring

8.8/10Very Good416 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.37km from downtown
The hotel's location is excellent, close to several large shopping malls and various supermarkets. There are plenty of Chinese and Japanese restaurants nearby, making dining very convenient. Grace, a member of the service staff, was very friendly. The room facilities and overall cleanliness were well-maintained. Although the breakfast selection was simple, it tasted good and included freshly made omelets. However, I booked Novotel and found out that floors above 20 are Novotel, while those below are Ibis. Breakfast is also served in the same restaurant for both. I feel there's no point in booking Novotel; I might as well have booked the cheaper Ibis.
From£ 85
8.6/10Very Good119 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.66km from downtown
For my 21-day trip to Australia, I stayed in 11 hotels across Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Here's my ranking of the best to worst experiences (with value for money considered): 1. Capella Sydney (low value for money) 2. Park Hyatt Melbourne (high value for money) 3. InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto (medium value for money) 4. Crown Towers Melbourne (high value for money) 5. Le Méridien Melbourne (medium value for money) 6. Hilton Adelaide (medium value for money) 7. The Langham Melbourne (low value for money) 8. Citadines on Bourke Melbourne (best value for money) 9. Meriton Suites Waterloo, Sydney (high value for money) 10. Best Western Plus Travel Inn Hotel Melbourne (low value for money) 11. The Hotel Windsor Melbourne (worst value for money) Now, let's talk about the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Like The Windsor, it's a heritage hotel, and its beauty is undeniable. It truly looks like a 19th-century Neo-Gothic Venetian castle! Located in the heart of Collins Street, it's one of InterContinental's most luxurious heritage hotels worldwide. When you stay here, you can't help but spend time exploring, as both the exterior and interior decor are magnificent, and the room facilities are top-notch. It's definitely worth a stay.
From£ 133
9.1/10Great196 Reviews
Melbourne|1.12km from downtown
The surroundings are excellent, and the location is convenient. The room was spacious and cleaned promptly. Room service was also very efficient; anything I needed was delivered quickly with just a phone call. I accidentally scraped my leg, and when I asked room service for some disinfectant, the hotel's medical staff came to my room to disinfect and bandage it, even thoughtfully asking how I got the scrape. The breakfast was exquisite, and the flat white truly is my favorite – I had it seven mornings in a row! The restaurant manager and staff were very warm and friendly, and their attire was elegant and neat. I'll definitely stay here again next time.
From£ 201
8.2/10Very Good529 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.78km from downtown
My stay at YEHS Hotel Melbourne was excellent. The location is very convenient, with easy access to public transport, restaurants, shops, and popular attractions. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, making it a great place to relax after a day of exploring the city. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always willing to help with any questions. Check-in and check-out were smooth and hassle-free. I also appreciated the hotel’s quiet atmosphere and comfortable bed, which made for a good night’s sleep. Overall, I had a wonderful experience at YEHS Hotel Melbourne and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a clean, affordable, and conveniently located place to stay. I would be happy to stay here again on my next visit to Melbourne.
From£ 47
8.6/10Very Good450 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.47km from downtown
This was my first time staying in a dormitory, and it was much more comfortable than I expected. The room I stayed in was for women only, but it seems mixed-gender rooms are a bit cheaper. The location is the best part; being right in the heart of the city, it's understandably a bit noisy.
From£ 18

Show more

Gym

8.7/10Very Good167 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.46km from downtown
My parents and I stayed at Oaks Melbourne on Market from 24 to 26 July, and we had a wonderful experience. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely welcomed and well looked after. A special thank you to Fardin and Betty for their exceptional service. My luggage was lost in transit on my flight from Sydney to Melbourne, which was understandably stressful. I explained the airline’s delivery arrangements to Fardin, and he was incredibly helpful throughout the process. He kept me informed, provided updates, and promptly let me know when my luggage arrived at the hotel. His attentiveness and reassurance made a worrying situation much easier to manage. Betty also provided outstanding customer service and made both me and my family feel incredibly welcome. Her warmth and hospitality added a personal touch to our stay and left a lasting impression. The room itself was comfortable and relaxing. The bed was very comfortable, and having a bathtub was a lovely feature after a long day exploring Melbourne. The hotel’s location is also extremely convenient, right in the heart of Melbourne CBD and within easy reach of restaurants, shops, public transport, and many of the city’s attractions. Thank you to the entire team at Oaks Melbourne on Market, especially Fardin and Betty, for making our family stay so enjoyable. We would happily stay here again
From£ 94
8.7/10Very Good728 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.55km from downtown
Located at strategic location which near to f&b outlets, shopping and attractions. The room is clean and huge with wine glasses 😍 Nothing to do with the hotel, just my personal experience at 10.30pm when walking back from work. I got chased by junkie and luckily a group of local protected me and walked me back hotel. Thankful to meet them
From£ 90
9.1/10Great253 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.46km from downtown
Stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street for a short city break. The location is excellent, directly opposite Flinders Street Station and within easy walking distance of Federation Square, the Yarra River, restaurants and Melbourne's laneways. The hotel itself is functional rather than impressive. It appears to be a converted office building, which means the layout is a little different from purpose-built hotels and there are no particularly memorable views despite the prime location. The room was comfortable enough, but the finishes and fixtures lacked the polished feel I've experienced at other DoubleTree properties. Business travellers looking for a more premium or contemporary fit-out may find it falls short of expectations. During our stay there was an issue with our baggage, however the staff handled the situation professionally, resolved the problem and provided complimentary drink vouchers as a goodwill gesture, which was appreciated. One disappointment was that the gym was closed during our stay, as this is a facility I normally like to use when travelling. Overall, the hotel's strongest selling point is its outstanding location. It works well as a tourist base for exploring Melbourne, but business travellers who prioritise hotel facilities, room finishes and a more modern feel may prefer some of the newer hotels in the CBD.
From£ 93
9/10Great108 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.54km from downtown
I stayed here for two nights, and the Ctrip price for this hotel was significantly lower than on other platforms. For the same price, other hotels weren't as new. Comparing them, this hotel is ideal, from its location to its rooms. The hotel also has USB ports on its outlets. From a distance while walking along the river, you can easily spot the 'vibe' blue letters on the building, making it easy to find your way back. There's a path right outside the entrance that crosses the river. The Urban Rooms are located on floors below the sixth floor. If you want a view, you should opt for a River View Room on the sixth floor or higher. Just a heads-up: they don't provide toothpaste or toothbrushes, so remember to bring your own.
From£ 97
8.8/10Very Good462 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.69km from downtown
I've stayed at Oaks Melbourne on William Suites multiple times when visiting Melbourne. The rooms with a kitchen and a view balcony are fantastic. Flagstaff Gardens is right downstairs, and in the mornings, standing on the balcony and looking out at the Docklands sea view is incredibly refreshing. In the evenings, you can enjoy a magnificent sunset. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and importantly, the kitchen is fully equipped, perfect for a longer stay if you want to cook your own meals. The location is super convenient for getting around; downstairs, you'll find the Route 30 and 58 Free Trams, as well as Flagstaff Gardens Station. You can easily get anywhere. Plus, it's just a ten-minute walk to Queen Victoria Market, where you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables and sample cuisines from all over the world – there’s nothing quite like the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling market to soothe the soul. I will definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit.
From£ 80

Show more

Swimming pool

9.3/10Great62 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.52km from downtown
I enjoyed everything as I usually do on our annual trip to Mantra on Russell. However, this is the first time that myself and my family member were not in rooms beside eachother. We were on separate floors and that was very disappointing for our family holiday. Hopefully this won’t happen next year or we will start staying elsewhere. We were assured we would be as close by as possible. I don’t believe separate floors is acceptable. I spoke with staff and management and was told there is nothing that can be done so that did put a dampener on our stay unfortunately.
From£ 70
8.4/10Very Good55 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.9km from downtown
We got a free upgrade to a two-room apartment. The balcony and view were excellent, and the apartment had everything we needed. Great location!
From£ 59
8.2/10Very Good99 Reviews
Chapel Street South Yarra|0.14km from downtown
For my solo trip, the front desk staff were incredibly friendly. The hotel's location was also very convenient, and the breakfast was decent. Overall, I found it to be excellent value for money. If you're looking to experience local life and want a lively atmosphere, I think this place will definitely meet your needs.
From£ 88
8.7/10Very Good4259 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Docklands|0.82km from downtown
Melbourne Stays Apartments provides flawless service and all the necessary facilities for visitors.To facilitate your arrival and departure, you can pre-book airport transfer services prior to checking in.When arriving by car, you'll be grateful for the on-site complimentary parking at apartment. The apartment offers reception assistance, including express check-in or check-out, to ensure guest satisfaction.Whether you're here for an extended stay or simply require fresh garments, the apartment ensures your cherished travel attire remains spotless and accessible with the convenience of dry cleaning service located on the premises. The apartment's daily housekeeping ensures an excellent option for your stay. Visitors staying at Melbourne Stays Apartments have the option to receive groceries in their room for meal preparation, courtesy of the unique service provided by the apartment.Throughout the day, engage in the entertaining activities available at Melbourne Stays Apartments.Unwind and conclude each day delightfully by stopping by hot tub, steam room, spa and sauna, ensuring a soothing experience.Unwind by the pool at apartment and cherish a leisurely moment. Guests who enjoy maintaining their fitness regimen while on holiday can visit the fitness center provided by apartment.
7.3/109 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Southbank|0.71km from downtown
Key collection was easy, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The apartment was beautifully decorated and smelled lovely, with a very comfortable bed. The apartment was in a convenient location, and all essentials were well considered. I would highly recommend this stay.

Show more

Breakfast

7.9/10Good315 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.2km from downtown
I stayed at Ibis Budget Melbourne CBD recently. As the name suggests, it’s a budget hotel, so expectations should be modest. The biggest strength is definitely the location — right in the heart of the city, with easy access to trams, Flinders Street Station, and plenty of shops and restaurants. However, I did encounter some concerns with cleanliness and housekeeping. On one occasion, my linens and bedsheet had visible yellow stains that looked like old pee stains. I requested a replacement, but honestly, linens in that condition should already be disposed of. There were also two separate instances when my linens and towels were not replaced at all, which was disappointing. Service was generally okay, and staff were responsive when approached, but consistency in housekeeping needs attention. Overall, it’s fine if you’re after affordability and location, but improvements in cleanliness would make the stay much more comfortable.
From£ 45
9.4/10Amazing128 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.84km from downtown
This is an older, well-established hotel with an excellent location. It's very convenient to get to all the city's major attractions, and there's a tram stop right outside, so you can easily explore without much walking. There's also a mall downstairs with plenty of dining options if you don't fancy the hotel breakfast. We received a room upgrade to the 41st floor, and the views were fantastic. The windows are unique, with a wooden push-out design, and the room itself is spacious and comfortable. The bathroom is accessible but doesn't have a bathtub, which is fine since the amazing high-floor view made up for it. Breakfast was decent; they had some Chinese options, but I still prefer a buffet-style breakfast as the à la carte didn't have anything I particularly liked – my Chinese palate, I guess! Overall, I'd recommend it.
From£ 169
8.6/10Very Good490 Reviews
Melbourne Central Business District Melbourne|0.74km from downtown
The location is great, just a 5-minute walk from Southern Cross Station, making it super convenient for getting around and finding plenty of food options. The front desk staff were very friendly and provided detailed explanations. I loved the app-based room key system. The lobby has lots of power outlets, and the first-floor lounge area is spacious, plus there are independent lounge areas on each floor. The room itself was quite large and had bedside lamps. On the third floor, the men's restroom has two individual shower stalls, and there are more on the second floor. The kitchen has 8 gas burners, which can get quite crowded during meal times. The free breakfast was simple, but they did offer almond milk. On the downside, the bathroom felt a bit humid, there were no privacy curtains on the bed, and there weren't many hooks in the room.
From£ 18
8.8/10Very Good132 Reviews
St Kilda Road Melbourne|3.82km from downtown
We had a wonderful family stay at View Melbourne. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, providing plenty of space for our family to relax after a day of exploring the city. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always willing to help with any requests. The location was excellent, with easy access to public transport and many Melbourne attractions nearby. We especially enjoyed the beautiful views and the peaceful atmosphere around the hotel. Breakfast offered a good variety of options, and the overall facilities were well maintained. Overall, View Melbourne provided great value for money and made our family trip enjoyable and stress-free. We would happily stay here again and recommend it to other families visiting Melbourne.
From£ 76
7.4/10110 Reviews
St Kilda Road Melbourne|3.97km from downtown
It's about 20 minutes' drive from the city center. There are many trams available, so the transportation is quite convenient. The room is quite clean, the space is large, and the environment is quiet. Some rooms have washing machines and simple cooking utensils, making it convenient for long-term stays. Unfortunately, there are no large shopping malls nearby. For shopping and dining, you have to go to the city center or distant towns.

Show more

Show more

FAQs about Sydney to Melbourne

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
James Taylor

James Taylor

Trip.com Writer

View profile

Hi, I'm James, an Australian travel writer based in Europe. Years of trips across Asia, Europe, the US and back home in Australia have taught me that good travel comes down to having the right information beforehand: knowing the details of transfers and public transport, which queue to skip, what's worth it and what's not. I'm bringing all that knowledge and research to my travel guides for Trip.com so you can spend less time working it out and more time enjoying your trip.

41 articles
Travel Insights
> >
Sydney to Melbourne