Free Tram Zone Melbourne – Everything You Need to Know!

Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone is a designated area within the Central Business District (CBD) where tram travel is free of charge. Introduced to encourage the use of public transport, the zone provides tourists and locals alike with an accessible way to move around the city without any cost or need for a Myki card.

How Does Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone Work?

Within the Free Tram Zone, all tram travel is entirely free. There’s no need to tap on or tap off a Myki card when boarding trams in this area. As long as you enter and exit the tram within the designated zone, no fare is charged. Trams running through the Free Tram Zone will also pass stops outside the boundary, where fares apply.

Where is the Free Tram Zone in Melbourne?

The Free Tram Zone is limited to Melbourne’s CBD. Boundaries of the zone include popular streets like La Trobe Street to the north, Flinders Street to the south, Spring Street to the east and Spencer Street to the west. There are a few notable stops and areas within the Free Tram Zone. These include Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market and Bourke Street Mall.

melbourne free tram zone map
Melbourne free tram zone map taken from: ptv.vic.gov.au

How to Know Where the Free Tram Zone Is?

Tram stops within the Free Tram Zone are clearly marked with signage. Maps are available on tram stops and platforms, highlighting the Free Tram Zone boundaries. In addition, there’s usually an announcement on the tram that the free zone is ending. For ease of navigation, you can also refer to the official Free Tram Zone map online.

Tourist Activities within the Free Tram Zone

The Free Tram Zone makes for an easy and free way to explore Melbourne’s iconic CBD landmarks. Here are some must-visit places within the free tram zone:

Federation Square: Known for its modern architecture, Federation Square houses cultural institutions, eateries and public spaces. Throughout the year there are many events and exhibitions hosted here too!

Queen Victoria Market: A historic market offering everything from fresh produce to unique souvenirs and food stalls. Check out other amazing markets in Melbourne during your trip!

State Library of Victoria: Victoria’s oldest public library, renowned for its grand reading rooms and fascinating exhibitions on Melbourne’s history.

Flinders Street Station: Melbourne’s iconic railway station with its heritage-listed architecture and easy connection to other parts of the city.

Chinatown: A vibrant district packed with authentic Asian eateries, cultural festivals and unique shops.

Bourke Street Mall: Melbourne’s prime retail hub, home to leading stores and shopping experiences. There are a few other malls to check out nearby including Melbourne Central.

Melbourne Trams – Beyond the Free Zone

Once you travel outside the Free Tram Zone, a valid Myki card is required. Here’s what you need to know about tram fares and payment options:

How Do You Pay for Trams in Melbourne?

Outside the Free Tram Zone, Melbourne’s trams are not free. Fares vary based on travel distance and zones, with most of the metropolitan area covered under Zone 1. A daily fare typically covers all public transport in Melbourne for the day. To travel, you’ll need a Myki card, which costs around AUD 6 for adults and can be purchased at convenience stores, train stations and Myki machines. Once loaded with credit, simply tap on at the start of your journey and tap off upon leaving. If you have an Android phone, you can download a mobile Myki to your Google Wallet and pay via your phone. This isn’t available to iPhone users yet annoyingly.

App for Melbourne Trams

For an easier travel experience, I recommend downloading the PTV (Public Transport Victoria) app. This provides tram schedules, real-time tracking, route planning and easy Myki top-ups. You can check out the PTV site here and download the app here.

Other useful apps for Melbourne Trams include CityMapper and Google Maps. Both offering reliable route planning and live tracking for Melbourne trams, making it easier to plan your journey.

FAQs for Melbourne Trams

Can You Use Credit Cards on Melbourne Trams?

No, you can’t use credit or debit cards on Melbourne Trams. However, you can use Mobile myki if you have an Android phone, via Google Pay. For more information on this, check out this PTV article. This unfortunately isn’t something available to iPhone users as of yet. Therefore you can use a traditional Myki cards for tram travel outside the Free Tram Zone.

What Time Do Trams Start Running in Melbourne?

Trams generally start around 5 a.m. on weekdays, with services starting slightly later on weekends.

Do Trams Run All Night in Melbourne?

Some tram routes run 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays; otherwise, trams usually cease around midnight.

Historic Tram Tour

For a classic Melbourne experience, hop onto the City Circle Tram (Route 35) – a heritage tram that circles the CBD. This is also free! This route provides audio commentary on historical sites, perfect if you’re wanting to learn about Melbourne’s history and landmarks.

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