If Australia is on your travel radar, make sure Melbourne on the list. It’s the country’s second largest city, after Sydney. The stunning landscape, rich culture, and dazzling ambiance of Melbourne are just a few reasons why it also consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable city.
These are four great reasons why there are no excuses not to see Melbourne. Did I also mention there’s a lot to do even if you’re on a tight budget?
1. Domestic flights are a breeze
Australia is huge. It's vastly different than if you were in Europe, for example, where you can easily take a train or bus to a different country.
It’s important to note that Melbourne’s airport doesn't have a train to take you to the city. Travelers either rely on taxis or the Skybus, which is $19 AUS, one way. The bus takes you to the downtown area.
2. Getting around is a cinch on Melbourne’s trams
For what Melbourne lacks in trains, they make up in trams. Melbourne has one of the most robust tram systems in the world. You don’t need a car unless you want to take a few quick scenic road trips along the coast.
Save money and avoid taking Ubers -- just hop on a tram. They’re inexpensive, clean, and I never had to wait longer than five minutes for one. The only downside is if you’re in a hurry. Trams don’t really go faster than 35 mph.
Tip: Go into a 7-11 to get a Myki (pronounced Mikee) card. It’s about $6 AUS for the card itself. You then “top" it with money and you’re good to go. The transportation system works by tapping on and off.
They even have a free tram for tourists. It’s the only tram that looks like an old-fashioned trolley. It loops around the city so you can hop on and off to see various attractions along the way.
Also, look out for the Free Tram Zone, which sits in a central part of the city. When you’re in any tram that passes through this zone, it’s free. However, when your tram leaves the free zone, you’re expected to tap your card and pay before you reach your destination.
3. You can see Melbourne very cheaply
When you travel a lot, everything adds up, so free activities are sacred. Here are five things you can spend your time doing in Melbourne and soak it all in, for next to nothing! Don’t forget to take advantage of the inexpensive trams.
1. National Gallery of Victoria
Admission: Free
The National Gallery of Victoria, or the NGV, is one of Melbourne’s biggest museum attractions. The museum has a variety of exhibitions and artwork from modern to classic.
2. Melbourne Library
Admission: Free
The library features a small art gallery with old paintings of Melbourne's historical politicians and military leaders.
3. Melbourne’s graffiti art
In addition to unique, artsy buildings paint a colorful city landscape, there are numerous graffiti art locations around the city. Flinder’s Street Station is worth checking out as well.
4. St. Kilda Beach
St. Kilda beach is beautiful, with lots of restaurants and shops along the way. You can spend the afternoon on the sand, or walk along the promenade.
St. Kilda is near Luna Park, which is the vintage amusement park with a roller coaster and carousel.
5. Queen Victoria Market
There’s nothing better than checking out a new city’s farmer’s market, and Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market is worth checking out.
The tram takes you directly there, and you can see all kinds of meats, pastries, and sweets local to the city. It’s also the best way to save money on food.
4. Rewards options to get to Melbourne
Using the best travel credit card can help you travel to Melbourne for a discount, especially if you use transferable points like Chase Ultimate Rewards.
In addition to Chase Ultimate Rewards, there are many other rewards programs that can get you from the U.S. to Australia. Some notable ones include the following airlines and its partners.
1. Alaska Air
Alaska Air doesn’t fly directly to Australia, but you can get there through a number of its partners. The trick is to find a flight through Quantas, and most likely you’ll need to do that through finding a layover in Asia.
Here are Alaska’s partners that fly to Australia:
- American Airlines
- Quantas
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- Fiji Airways
- Korean Air
Here’s roughly how many points you’ll need on Alaska to get there:
- Economy ~ 80,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles
- Business ~ 160,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles
- First ~ 220,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles
2. ANA Mileage Club
Through the ANA Mileage Club, United Air offers one of the best redemption rates for economy and business to Australia.
This is a great option if you’re an American Express Membership Rewards member or use SPG/Starpoints. Note: You can’t book one-way flights with ANA Mileage Club.
- Economy ~ 75,000 points
- Business ~ 120,000 points
3. American AAdvantage
If you are an American AAdvantage member, you can easily find a gateway airport with flights to Australia.
- Economy ~ 80,000 American AAdvantage miles
- Business ~ 160,000 American AAdvantage miles
- First-Class ~ 220,000 American AAdvantage miles
Melbourne Awaits
So, if you’re thinking of embarking on an Australian adventure, do not miss Melbourne.
You can’t beat the cultural art scene, the terrific weather (most of the year), and the ease of getting around through their awesome trams.
