Ah, Melbourne — home of laneway lattes, world-class culture, and weather that does all four seasons before lunch. It’s a city that seems perfectly made for wandering, with a well-connected tram network and walkable CBD.
So do you really need a car to get around? Honestly — not always. But there are a few situations where going without one can be a proper headache.
Here’s the real deal on doing Melbourne without a car… and when you’ll quietly wish you had one.
🚋 Public Transport in Melbourne: The Good Bits
Let’s give credit where it’s due — Melbourne’s tram network is the biggest in the world, and it covers a lot of ground. Trams within the Free Tram Zone in the CBD are, well, free — perfect for short hops between your hotel, Federation Square, Queen Vic Market, and the laneways of Flinders Lane.
Add in trains and buses, and you’ve got solid coverage for city-based travellers.
Just grab a Myki card, tap on/off, and you’re sorted.
😬 …But It’s Not All Smooth Sailing
Here’s where things get a little sticky:
- Peak hour? Trams are packed tighter than a music festival.
- Weekend timetables? Expect longer waits and the occasional cancellation.
- Want to explore beyond the CBD? Good luck. Places like Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, or Dandenong Ranges are stunning — but near impossible without a car.
- Got luggage? Dragging bags on and off trams and trains isn’t exactly the Melbourne aesthetic.
And if you’re travelling with kids, elderly parents, or a group? Public transport quickly becomes more effort than it’s worth.
🚗 When a Car Just Makes Life Easier
Melbourne’s city core is great for foot traffic and trams — but the real gems often live beyond the tram tracks. Here’s where hiring a car starts making a lot of sense:
- Wine-tasting in Yarra Valley (because nobody wants to rely on bus timetables between cellar doors)
- Day trips to the Great Ocean Road — one of Australia’s most iconic drives
- Exploring the Dandenongs with spontaneous stops for devonshire tea and rainforest walks
- Outlets and IKEA runs (hey, it happens)
Plus, with a car, you can set your own pace — no stressing over missing the last train or getting stuck out in the suburbs after dinner.
Final Verdict?
You can absolutely enjoy Melbourne without a car — especially if your plans stick close to the city. But if you’ve got bigger sights in mind, love the freedom to roam, or just want to avoid the transport tangle, it might be time to rethink.
For total freedom (and far fewer regrets), book your Melbourne Airport car hire and unlock the best of both city and countryside.
