Taxi Fare from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to CBD: Cost, Time & Tips

Taking a taxi from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to the city center is straightforward. Here's the current fare structure (2024).

Fare Breakdown

• Flag Fall + Service Fee: $4.20
• Distance Rate: $1.00 per 211 meters
• Waiting Time: $1.00 per 57 seconds
• Airport Rank Fee: $4.30 (added to fare)
• Tolls: CityLink tolls ~$6–10 (passed through).

Typical Total

• Daytime (off-peak): $55–65
• Peak / Night / Weekend: $65–75+
• Duration: 35–40 minutes (23 km via Tullamarine Fwy).

Payment

• Cash, Credit/Debit (tap/swipe), Cabcharge, Apple/Google Pay.
• Surcharge: 5% on card payments (regulated).
• Receipt: Automatic printed/emailed.

Where to Catch

• Official Taxi Rank: Outside Terminals 1, 2, 3, 4 — follow signs.
• Rideshare (Uber/DiDi/Ola): Dedicated pickup zones (Level 2, between T2/T3); often $40–55.

Alternatives

• SkyBus Express: $22–25 one-way; 20 min to Southern Cross Station; 10-min frequency.
• Public Transport (PTV): Bus 901 to Broadmeadows → Train — $5–10 (Myki); 50+ min.
• Hotel Shuttle: Many CBD hotels offer free pickup.

Tips

• Confirm driver starts meter.
• Ask for receipt with ABN (for expenses).
• Pre-book via 13CABS, Silver Top, or app for guaranteed pickup.
• Accessible taxis (WAV) available — request at rank or pre-book.