Melbourne Airport
Melbourne, Australia · Since 1970
Last updated:
About MEL
Australia second-busiest airport serving the city of Melbourne.
Why "MEL"?
MEL is the IATA code derived from Melbourne, the capital of Victoria state in Australia
Terminals
Terminal 1 (Qantas Domestic)
Qantas domestic terminal with modern facilities, premium lounges, and extensive dining. Recently upgraded with self-service check-in and bag drop.
Terminal 2 (International)
International terminal handling all overseas flights. Features duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and border control facilities.
Terminal 3 (Virgin Australia & Rex)
Home of Virgin Australia domestic operations and Regional Express. Modern concourse with extensive food court.
Terminal 4 (Budget Domestic)
Budget carrier terminal serving Jetstar and Bonza. Connected to Terminal 3 via indoor walkway. Simpler facilities with focus on efficiency.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MEL
Showing 8 of 44 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxi
AUD 55-75 ($35-50 USD)
25-35 minutes to city center
Public Transport
AUD 22 ($14 USD, SkyBus)
30-40 minutes to city center
Parking at MEL
Short-Term Car Park
Multi-Level Car Park
Long-Term Car Park
Valet Parking
Airport Lounges
Qantas First Lounge
Ultra-premium First lounge with a la carte dining by Neil Perry, day spa, and exceptional wine list.
Qantas Business Lounge
Flagship Qantas lounge with Neil Perry-designed menu, barista coffee, cocktail bar, and shower suites.
Emirates Lounge
Dedicated Emirates lounge in T2 with Middle Eastern and Western cuisine, premium beverages, and shower suites.
Virgin Australia Lounge
Stylish lounge in T3 with grazing menu, barista coffee, cocktails, and city views.
Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge
Elegant lounge with Singaporean and Australian cuisine. Known for laksa and satay alongside Australian wines.
The House Melbourne
International terminal lounge open to all with hot food buffet, bar, and shower facilities.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Parkroyal Melbourne Airport
Connected to Terminal 2 via covered walkway
The only hotel with direct terminal access. Soundproofed rooms, restaurant, and free shuttle to domestic terminals.
Nearby Hotels
Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport
Centre Road, adjacent to Holiday Inn
Budget option with clean basic rooms. Walking distance to terminals via covered path. Good value.
Quest Airport West
3 km from airport in Airport West suburb
Apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes. Free airport shuttle during business hours.
Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport
Centre Road, 1 km from terminals
Modern hotel with indoor pool, restaurant, and 24-hour airport shuttle. Popular for early departures.
Mantra Tullamarine Hotel
Arrivals Drive, 2 km from terminals
Contemporary hotel with serviced apartments, outdoor pool, and free 24-hour airport transfers.
Food & Dining
Hungry Jack's
Fast Food
Australian version of Burger King. Flame-grilled Whoppers, chicken burgers, and breakfast menu.
5:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Noodle Bar
Asian
Quick and affordable Asian noodle soups, stir-fries, and rice dishes. Good for a fast hot meal.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Brunetti Classico
Italian/Cafe
Iconic Melbourne Italian cafe chain. Famous for tiramisu, cannoli, and proper espresso. A Melbourne institution.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Urban Burger
American
Gourmet burgers using premium Australian beef with creative toppings and thick-cut chips.
6:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Wok On Air
Asian
Quick-service Asian cuisine with pad thai, laksa, fried rice, and dumplings made to order.
5:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Degani
Cafe/Bakery
Melbourne cafe culture at the airport. Specialty coffee, smashed avo toast, and fresh baked goods.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Avis
Terminal forecourt, Car Rental Centre
Walk-through from all terminals to car rental centre. Preferred members get priority service.
Hertz
Terminal forecourt, Car Rental Centre
Gold Plus Rewards members skip the counter. Good selection of SUVs for Great Ocean Road trips.
Europcar
Terminal forecourt, Car Rental Centre
One of the largest fleets at MEL. Privilege loyalty members get free upgrades when available.
Budget
Terminal forecourt, Car Rental Centre
Good value mid-range option. Part of Avis group. Book early for competitive weekly rates.
East Coast Car Rentals
Shuttle from terminal to off-site depot
Budget off-airport option. Free shuttle from terminals. Significantly cheaper than terminal-based companies.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Qantas First Lounge Experience
If you have access, the Qantas First Lounge offers a la carte dining by Neil Perry and a full day spa.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Melbourne Coffee Culture Walk
Self-guided tour of Melbourne best cafes. Patricia Coffee, Market Lane, and Seven Seeds are must-visits in the CBD.
Melbourne Laneways and Street Art
Explore Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane, and hidden street art throughout the CBD. SkyBus gets you there in 30 minutes.
Queen Victoria Market Visit
Historic market open since 1878. Fresh produce, artisan goods, and Australian souvenirs. Open Tue-Sun.
Brighton Beach Boxes
Photograph the iconic colorful bathing boxes at Brighton Beach. Take SkyBus to CBD then train to Brighton.
Federation Square and NGV
Visit Federation Square cultural precinct and the free National Gallery of Victoria Australian collection.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (30 minutes (re-register for more))
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type I (Australian standard), USB-A at most gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: AUD 15-25 per bag per day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: AUD (Australian Dollar)
- Exchange: Travelex in T2 arrivals and international departures
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Australia but appreciated for exceptional service. 10% at upscale restaurants is generous.
Smoking Areas
No smoking inside any terminal. Designated smoking areas outside terminal entries only.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +61 3 9297 1600
Facilities & Contact
Official Website
Phone
+61 3 9297 1600