Melbourne on a Budget
A public square and a lattice of laneways that both cost nothing to wander, here’s how to keep the rest of a Melbourne trip affordable too.
Melbourne has a genuine reputation for being on the pricier side of Australian cities, but several of its best experiences, the laneways, Federation Square, cost nothing at all. Here’s how to keep the rest of the costs down without cutting the trip short.
The laneways and Federation Square are free
Wandering the laneways and Federation Square costs nothing, only specific attractions like MCG Tours charge admission. The free City Circle tram covers the CBD too, a proper way to see the city without paying for transport.
Visit outside major sporting events for lower prices
Melbourne’s hotel prices and crowds spike around the Australian Open each January and the AFL Grand Final each September, considerably higher than the rest of the year given both events’ draw. Booking outside these windows offers noticeably lower rates.
Use trams over taxis
Melbourne’s tram network is genuinely extensive and considerably cheaper than taxis for nearly every journey. The free City Circle tram covers the CBD entirely, worth using before paying for anything else.
A laneway café beats a Federation Square tourist restaurant
A laneway café or a Queen Victoria Market stall is widely a cheaper Melbourne option, considerably better value than a sit-down restaurant right on the square. A meat pie or a banh mi remains one of the better cheap eats too.
Consider Fitzroy or Carlton over the CBD
Hotels right in the CBD sit at the top of the price range given the location. Fitzroy or Carlton, a short tram ride away, run noticeably cheaper while offering a genuinely strong, more local food and café scene of their own.
That’s everything I’ve got.
A note before you plan around this: prices, opening hours, booking requirements and admission details in this guide were correct at the time of writing, but venues change these often and sometimes without notice. Always check directly with the attraction or its official website before you travel or build a schedule around a specific time or price.
Before travelling to any destination featured on this site, please also check your government’s latest travel advice, as safety situations, entry requirements and travel warnings can change.
