Lois Larson
Melbourne Airport is Australia's second busiest airport, transporting over 33 million passengers per year. It is Victoria's only international airport. The airport is open 24 hours on the landside across all terminals. Security checkpoints close overnight according to flight schedules. Spending the night at the airport can be difficult as the toilets are quite separate, and it can be noisy with strong air conditioning. The quietest places to rest are the Arrivals area of Terminal 1, the corridor connecting terminals 3 and 4, and the corridor leading to the Terminal 3 security checkpoint. There are also several nearby hotels, including Parkroyal, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Budget.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Staying overnight at Melbourne Airport | Possible, but not recommended due to discomfort and noise. |
| Sleeping spots | The Arrivals area of Terminal 1, the corridor connecting terminals 3 and 4, and the corridor leading to the Terminal 3 security checkpoint are quiet and secluded. |
| Food options | McDonald's is open 24 hours in Terminal 2 and the Terminal 4 food court. |
| Restrooms | Showers are available in the public area of Terminal 2 and in the VIP lounges. |
| Wi-Fi | Free and unlimited. |
| Other services | ATMs, currency exchange, baby changing facilities, children's playground, duty-free shop, and prayer rooms are available 24/7. |
| Nearby hotels | Parkroyal Melbourne Airport, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Budget. |
| Hotel prices | Holiday Inn ($275), Ibis Budget ($205). |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping spots in Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport is open 24 hours on the landside across all terminals. However, security checkpoints close overnight according to flight schedules: T1 (1:00 AM–4:00 AM), T2 (2:00 AM–4:00 AM), T3 (1:00 AM–4:30 AM), and T4 (midnight–4:00 AM). Airside passengers will need to move to the landside unless they are in transit with a boarding pass for their next flight. There are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones, but there are informal relaxation spots with sleep-friendly seating scattered throughout.
The airport offers a variety of lounges, from premium airline lounges to accessible public lounges, with options for every traveller. Qantas Club, for example, is located in Terminal 1, Airside, Level 1, near Gate 24. It offers showers but no dedicated rest or sleep facilities. Access is available through multiple methods, including pay-at-the-door, prepaid lounge passes, lounge membership programs, or complimentary entry for eligible airline passengers and frequent flyers.
If you plan to sleep in the public zone, be prepared for an early morning wake-up call from security, who are known to make rounds as travellers arrive for morning flights. The quietest and most secluded places to rest are the Arrivals area of Terminal 1, the corridor connecting terminals 3 and 4, and the corridor leading to the Terminal 3 security checkpoint.
If sleeping in the airport doesn't sound appealing, there are hotels nearby, including some connected to the terminals. Here are some options:
- ParkRoyal Melbourne International Airport: A two-minute walk from the terminal, connected to the domestic and international terminals via covered walkways.
- Best Western Airport Motel And Convention Centre
- Ciloms Airport Lodge Motel: Offers a free 24-hour airport shuttle.
- Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport: Located 400 metres from the domestic and international terminals, offering a short walk or a free 24-hour airport shuttle service.
- Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport: 400 metres from the airport.
- Novotel Melbourne Airport: Located next to Terminal 4.
- Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport: Also located next to Terminal 4.
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Nearby hotels
If you're looking for a place to stay near Melbourne Airport overnight, there are a few hotels within walking distance. The ParkRoyal Melbourne Airport is connected to the airport terminals via skybridges and is just 100 metres from the international terminal building. It was the airport's first on-site accommodation option and is a good choice if you want to be just a few steps from the airport.
Another option is the Holiday Inn, which is located just opposite the multi-level long-term car park. It is within a 300 to 500-metre walk from the airport buildings, depending on the specific terminal. The Holiday Inn is also linked to the terminal buildings via two pedestrian sky bridges.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Ibis Budget is located just across the road from a BP service station and McDonald's. It offers excellent value for money and is a good choice if you simply need a cosy place to sleep.
There are also a few other hotels near the airport that you can consider, such as the Holiday Inn One and the Park Royal. However, keep in mind that these options may be more expensive, with room rates ranging from $275 to $350.
Alternatively, you may want to consider heading into the city and staying at a hostel, as Melbourne Airport is just a short drive or public transport ride away. This will give you the opportunity to explore the city and get a better night's sleep before your flight.
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Transport to the city
If you're looking to get into Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD) from the airport, there are several transport options available. Here are some detailed instructions for various transport methods:
- Skybus — The Skybus is an express service that operates 24/7 between the airport and the CBD. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You can purchase tickets online, at the airport, or upon arrival in the CBD. The Skybus offers a convenient and relatively affordable way to get to the city, with a return ticket costing $32.
- Public Transport — You can use public transport to get to the city for a more economical option. With a Myki card, the fare is $4.60, or you can purchase a card for $6 if you don't have one. Android users can also utilise the mobile Myki option. The journey will likely take longer than the Skybus, but it's a more budget-friendly choice.
- Ride-sharing — Ride-sharing services such as Uber are available in Melbourne and can be a convenient way to travel to the city. The cost will vary depending on demand and the time of day, but it can be a comfortable and flexible option.
- Taxi — Taxis are readily available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination in the city. The fare will depend on the distance and time of day, but it's a traditional option for those who prefer it.
Remember to consider factors such as your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences when choosing the best transport option for your needs. Each method has its advantages, so weigh your priorities to make an informed decision.
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Staying safe
Melbourne Airport is open 24 hours on the landside across all terminals. However, security checkpoints close overnight according to flight schedules. If you plan to stay overnight at the airport, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Melbourne Airport is a large airport with toilets that are quite spread out. If you're not travelling with people of the same sex, it might be a good idea to have a plan B in case you feel uncomfortable.
- The airport can be generally noisy, and the air conditioning is often strong. It's a good idea to carry earplugs and blankets to make your stay more comfortable.
- The quietest and most secluded places to stay are the Arrivals area of Terminal 1, the corridor connecting terminals 3 and 4, and the corridor leading to the Terminal 3 security checkpoint. Benches are available, but they might not be very comfortable. You might prefer to use one of the VIP lounges or opt for seats in the on-site cafeterias.
- If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any time, it's best to stay alert and awake. Drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages can help. Remember that you can always make up for lost sleep during your flight.
- Keep your valuables secure and within sight at all times.
- If you need to store your luggage, there is a left-luggage service in Terminal 2, operating from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. There are also lockers on the ground floor of the Terminal 4 car park.
- There are several dining options available at night, including McDonald's, which is open 24 hours a day.
- Showers are available inside the public area of Terminal 2 and in the VIP lounges.
- Free and unlimited Wi-Fi is provided, but outlets to charge your devices may be hard to find.
- If you feel uncomfortable staying at the airport, consider booking a hotel nearby. Options include Parkroyal Melbourne Airport, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Budget.
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Food options
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport is open 24 hours in the landside areas across all terminals. However, security checkpoints close overnight according to flight schedules, and most shops will likely be closed after 10 pm. So, if you are staying overnight at the airport, it is recommended to eat something before arriving at the airport.
If you are arriving at the airport before 10 pm, there are a reasonable number of dining options, ranging from cafes and pubs to fast-food outlets such as Hungry Jacks and McDonald's. You can also purchase food on your flight, with Jetstar offering items such as wraps and coffee.
There are also free shower facilities in Terminal 2, where you can freshen up before your flight. These are located landside on the Departure Level near Nando's, and airside on the First Floor, just past the Duty-Free section.
If you are looking for cheaper food options, it might be worth heading into the city, which is accessible via public transport for $4.60 or via Skybus for $32.
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Frequently asked questions
It is generally safe to stay overnight at Melbourne Airport. Security guards patrol the airport at night, and there are cleaners as well. However, it is still recommended to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
The quietest and most secluded places are the Arrivals area of Terminal 1, the corridor connecting terminals 3 and 4, and the corridor leading to the Terminal 3 security checkpoint. However, the benches are not very comfortable. Some seats in the on-site cafeterias may be better.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including Parkroyal Melbourne Airport, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Budget. Parkroyal is directly linked to the terminal buildings via two pedestrian sky bridges, while Holiday Inn is located just opposite the multi-level long-term car park. Ibis Budget is located just across the road from a BP service station and McDonald's.
There are several options for food and drinks available at night in Terminal 2, including McDonald's, which is open 24 hours a day. Restrooms with showers can be found inside the public area of Terminal 2 and in the VIP lounges. Other services available around the clock include ATMs, currency exchange, baby-changing facilities, a children's playground, a duty-free shop, and prayer rooms.
Yes, you can take public transportation or the Skybus into the city and stay at a hostel or hotel. This option may provide more comfort and better amenities for a similar or lower price.
