Taxi from Melbourne Airport to CBD: Cost & Guide (2026)

Melbourne airport taxis cost AUD $55–80 to the CBD — here's what's fair, what to watch for, and if the SkyBus is better.

Taxis from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to the CBD are metered and regulated. The typical fare runs AUD $55–80 for the approximately 23 km journey, which takes 25–45 minutes depending on traffic. Melbourne taxis are reliable and honest — the meter must be used. Uber also operates prominently from Melbourne Airport.

Melbourne Airport to CBD: Key Numbers

Using Taxis & Uber at Melbourne Airport

Taxi ranks are located outside the arrivals area at both the international and domestic terminals. The AUD $4.40 airport levy is added to the meter at the start of the journey — this is legitimate and mandated. Melbourne has no traffic tunnel tolls on the standard route to the CBD. Uber operates from a designated pick-up zone at the airport — use the app to request a ride and follow the directions to the ride-share zone.

SkyBus vs Taxi from Melbourne Airport

• •SkyBus: AUD $22.50, 30–60 minutes to Southern Cross Station — best for solo travellers
• •Taxi: AUD $55–80, 25–45 minutes — better value for groups of 2–3
• •SkyBus runs 24/7, which makes it excellent for early morning and late night flights
• •No train service between Melbourne Airport and the CBD (as of 2026)

Frequently Asked Questions