When I first arrived in Melbourne, the city’s tram system felt like a confusing maze. But after a while, I accumulated a lot of practical knowledge. Now, I’ll share all my insights to help you easily master Melbourne’s tram network!
The truth about free tram travel in Melbourne
Free tram zone coverage
At first, I was curious: are all trams in Melbourne free? After some exploration, I was delighted to discover that trams in the city centre are indeed free. The free tram zone covers a wide area, stretching from Queen Victoria Market to the Docklands, Spring Street, Flinders Street Station and Federation Square.
Within this zone, you can get on and off trams as you please without worrying about the fare. What’s more, the City Circle tram (Route 35) is also free! I took the free tram from Flinders Street Station to Federation Square countless times, enjoying the views along the way.
Operating hours of the free tram
The free tram runs every 12 minutes from 10am to 6pm every day. This schedule makes travelling incredibly convenient – no need to constantly check the time. I often had the urge to explore the city in the afternoon, and I could set off within minutes of arriving at the station.
How to check the tram departure time
It is important to know when the next tram is due. Some stations have digital displays that show real-time departures. I once used one of these screens to perfectly plan my waiting time. You can also download the tramTRACKER and PTV apps for real-time updates.
When I was rushing to an important event, this app helped me track the tram’s location and avoid being late.
Melbourne tram fare details
Free zones and paid zones
In Melbourne, whether you need to pay for tram travel depends on your journey. The city centre offers free tram services, but a myki card is required for travel outside the free tram zone.
The first time I went to visit friends in the suburbs, I bought a myki card at a retail store, tourist centre and train station with the myki logo.
myki card usage rules
- Swipe in/out of the free zone: When I first got my myki card, I was unsure whether I had to swipe it in the free tram zone. The rules are as follows:
- If you want to travel in zones 1+2, you must swipe your card in and out.
- If you only travel in the free zone, do not swipe your card.
- If you only travel in zone 2, swiping in and out will ensure you get the cheapest fare.
- Once, I accidentally swiped my card in the free zone and was worried about incurring additional charges, but after checking the rules, I was relieved to find that it was a false alarm.
- 2-hour rule: After topping up, the first time you swipe your card will trigger a 2-hour fare. If your journey exceeds 2 hours, you will be charged the daily fare. Be sure to swipe in and out, otherwise the system may calculate the fare incorrectly. On long journeys, I paid the daily fare as expected.
- Daily fare cap: myki cards (for trains, trams and buses) have a daily cap. No matter how much you travel in Victoria, you will never pay more than $11 per weekday (less at weekends). This gives me the freedom to explore without worrying about the cost.
Can I ride the tram without a myki card?
Once, I was in such a hurry that I forgot my myki card when I left the house. I was so panicked until I remembered: the free tram zone doesn’t require a card! I enjoyed a carefree ride that day. However, a myki card is essential if you want to go beyond the free zone.
How do tourists use Melbourne’s public transport
The key to using Melbourne’s public transport for first-time visitors is understanding the tickets. In Melbourne and most of Victoria, myki cards are required for trains, trams and buses. You can buy a physical card or use mobile myki (super convenient!).
When I first visited Melbourne, I bought a myki card at the train station and immediately set off to explore the city.
Sharing myki cards
When travelling with friends, we wondered: can a Myki card be shared?
- If the card has Myki Money on it, it can be used by other people (one person at a time).
- If the card has Myki Pass on it, it is not allowed to be shared.
- Once, we used a Myki Money card for a group trip and took turns swiping it, and we got through the whole journey without any problems!
Using a credit card instead of myki
After losing my myki card, I was wondering if I could use a credit card instead. Although you can’t swipe it directly, you can use an Australian-issued MasterCard or Visa card to buy tickets or monthly passes online. I bought a temporary ticket this way and completed my journey without a problem.
Where can I buy a ticket?
- Metro Premium stations: I bought my first ticket at a Metro Premium station – it was quick and easy at the ticket window.
- myki machines at train stations, some tram stops and bus interchanges: While waiting for the tram, I noticed the myki machine nearby – it’s really easy to use. Some accessible tram stops and bus interchanges also have myki machines.
- 7-Eleven or other retailers: When I pass by 7-Eleven, I top up my myki card. There are more than 800 retailers in Melbourne that sell myki cards and provide related services – click here for details.
- Online purchase: At ptv.vic.gov.au, I ordered a new myki card without leaving home and received it a few days later – my plans were not disrupted in any way.
- Phone purchase: Call 1800 800 007 for help. A friend who is confused by technology bought a ticket this way and the staff were very helpful.
- Southern Cross Station PTV Centre: Every time I return to Melbourne, I take care of my myki card (new card/recharge) at the PTV Centre – quick and convenient.
Can I buy a myki card at Melbourne Airport?
I found my myki card at the airport when I first arrived in Melbourne. You can buy it from:
- Melbourne Airport
- Southern Cross Station PTV Centre
- Station myki machines
- Retailers (e.g. 7-Eleven)
- Android users can also download mobile myki via Google Wallet. With these options, I was able to start using public transport as soon as I got off the plane!
Public transport discounts for seniors
On the tram, I noticed that seniors pay a different fare. I later learned that
- senior myki card holders pay 50% of the standard adult fare on all Victorian public transport.
- Weekday daily cap: $5.50 (adult $11).
- Weekend cap: $3.80 (adult $7.60). A great saving!
Conclusion
With myki, you can seamlessly switch between trams, trains and buses. I once visited a suburban attraction by train → tram → bus – all with one card!
Melbourne’s nightlife is magical. Once, my friends and I took the tram after dark to enjoy the city’s sparkling night view, which is very different from the daytime atmosphere.
Don’t miss the free City Circle Tram, which circles the main attractions in the city centre. Once, I took a ride just to listen to the people on the tram talk about Melbourne’s history and culture. It’s a great way to relax and immerse yourself in the city!