How To Get To St Kilda from Melbourne CBD
If you're hanging around Melbourne and wondering
how to get to St Kilda from Melbourne CBD, you’re in for a pretty easy (and scenic) ride. Whether you're a backpacker, solo traveller, or just here on a budget, this guide breaks down your transport options—tram, train, bus, Uber, or even by foot - so you can spend less time Googling and more time soaking up the sunshine at
St Kilda Beach.
How to get to St Kilda by tram (most popular option)
If you ask any Melburnian or fellow traveller, how to get to St Kilda by tram is probably the first thing they’ll recommend. It’s cheap, safe, and gives you that classic Melbourne vibe.
Best for:
Backpackers, solo travellers, anyone without a car.
| Tram 96 | Tram 16 | Tram 3a |
|---|---|---|
| Departs from Bourke Street (via Southern Cross Station) and runs straight to St Kilda Beach. This is the most direct and scenic route. | Leaves from Swanston Street and heads down St Kilda Road to Fitzroy Street. | Weekends only – goes from Swanston Street straight to Luna Park. |
| Get off at Jacka Blvd/Fitzroy Street; Acland Street or Luna Park. | Hop off at Luna Park / The Esplanade. | Exit at Carlisle Street / St Kilda Road. |
Cost & Myki Info:
- You’ll need a Myki card (grab one at 7-Eleven, train stations, or use Myki Mobile on Android).
- Zone 1 fare is $5.30 for a 2-hour trip (or $2.65 if you’ve got a concession).
- Don’t forget to touch on/off at tram stops!
HOW TO GET TO ST KILDA BY TRAIN
If you ask any Melburnian or fellow traveller, how to get to St Kilda by tram is probably the first thing they’ll recommend. It’s cheap, safe, and gives you that classic Melbourne vibe.
Best for: Backpackers, solo travellers, anyone without a car.
From Melbourne CBD
- Catch any Sandringham Line train from Flinders Street Station.
- From Balaclava, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the beach, or you can jump on tram 16 or 3a for the last leg to Luna Park.
Closest train stations to St Kilda
- Balaclava Station: click here to view how far you are to this station.
- Windsor Station: click here to view how far you are to this station.
GETTING TO ST KILDA BY BUS
While it's not the most popular option, buses do get you there if you're coming from a different direction.
- Take Bus 606 from Elsternwick to Fisherman’s Bend, which passes through St Kilda.
- To get to Elsternwick from the city, take a Sandringham Line train from Flinders Street.
When is the bus useful?
- If you’re coming from southeast suburbs like Elwood or Elsternwick.
- If your hostel isn’t on a tram line and bus stops are closer.
UBER, TAXI OR RIDESHARING
If you're travelling in a group, have lots of luggage, or it's late at night, rideshare is a comfy choice.
- Cost: Around $20–$30 from the CBD to St Kilda.
- Time: Roughly 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Apps like
Uber,
Ola, or
DiDi are widely used in Melbourne.
Can you walk or cycle to St Kilda from the CBD?
Yes, absolutely. If the weather’s decent and you’re not in a rush, walking or cycling to St Kilda from the city can be one of the most enjoyable ways to get there — especially if you're keen to explore like a local.
Final tips for backpackers visiting St Kilda
When to go
- Sunset is magic - and it’s also when the St Kilda penguins come out on the breakwater near the pier!
Closest train stations to St Kilda
- Swimmers, sunscreen, sunnies, and a reusable water bottle.
- A camera (or phone) for those perfect beach and sunset snaps.
Where to eat (on a backpacker budget)
- Sister of Soul – great vegan food, budget-friendly vibes
- La Roche – classic pub-style food
- Radio Mexico - tacos of choice in an intimate courtyard.
- Any
bakery on
Acland Street
– perfect for a cheap pastry or sweet treat!
Where to drink (budget-friendly pubs in St Kilda)
- Harvey’s Sports Bar & Grill: Happy hour runs daily from 3–6 pm, featuring $9 tap beers and $7 house wines.
- Windsor Alehouse: Diverse selection of craft beers and a menu featuring classic pub fare. Guests staying at the hostel above this pub will receive exclusive discounts.
WHERE TO STAY IF YOU'RE EXPLORING MELBOURNE ON A BUDGET?
If you're planning to explore Melbourne and St Kilda without breaking the bank, staying somewhere central, social, and wallet-friendly makes all the difference.
One of the best picks for budget travellers in St Kilda? Pint On Punt Backpackers.
This laid-back hostel in St Kilda sits right above the Windsor Alehouse, just a short tram ride or even 15-minute walk away from St Kilda Beach. You’ll be close to all the action — beaches, cafés, cheap eats, bars — and still enjoy a cosy place to crash without the premium price tag.
Plus, guests get exclusive food and drink deals at the pub downstairs, making it even easier to stretch your budget. Whether you’re solo, with mates, or just keen to meet other travellers, it’s a top spot to base yourself while exploring Melbourne.
