How to Get to the Australian Open from St Kilda: Tram, Travel Time & Tips
Planning to watch the world's best tennis players at the Australian Open 2027 while staying in St Kilda? Held at Melbourne Park, the tournament is easy to reach by public transport, making St Kilda a convenient base for tennis fans and backpackers.
The easiest way to get to the Australian Open from St Kilda is to catch a citybound tram towards Flinders Street, then walk or transfer to Tram Route 70 or 70A. Here's what to know before planning your visit:
- Location: Melbourne Park, Melbourne VIC.
- Date: 11–31 January 2027.
- Distance from Pint on Punt: Approximately 5 km, depending on the route.
How to Get to the Australian Open from St Kilda by Tram
Taking a tram is one of the most practical ways to travel from St Kilda to the Australian Open. Melbourne's tram network connects St Kilda Road with the CBD, where visitors can continue towards Melbourne Park on foot or use a connecting tram service. Here's how to plan your journey.
Step 1: Find a Tram Stop Near St Kilda Junction
If you're staying near St Kilda Junction, head to Stop 30 – St Kilda Junction/St Kilda Road.
This stop is served by several tram routes, including:
- Tram Route 3 – East Malvern to Melbourne University
- Tram Route 5 – Malvern to Melbourne University
- Tram Route 16 – Kew to Melbourne University
- Tram Route 64 – East Brighton to Melbourne University
- Tram Route 67 – Carnegie to Melbourne University
Choose a citybound service heading towards Flinders Street Station or Melbourne University via St Kilda Road.
If you're staying at Pint on Punt Backpackers, located at 42 Punt Road, St Kilda Junction is a nearby public transport connection, making it a convenient starting point for your Australian Open journey.
Step 2: Take a Tram Towards Flinders Street Station
Once aboard your citybound tram, travel along St Kilda Road towards the Melbourne CBD. You'll pass through some of Melbourne's central areas before reaching Flinders Street Station, one of the city's best-known transport landmarks.
Get off at Stop 13 – Flinders Street Station/Swanston Street.
From here, you have two main options: walk to the Australian Open through Birrarung Marr or transfer to a tram serving Melbourne Park.
Before leaving, check the Transport Victoria Journey Planner for live services, delays and any temporary tram changes during the tournament.
Step 3: Walk to Melbourne Park or Transfer to Tram 70/70a
Option 1: Walk from Flinders Street Station
If you prefer walking, head towards Federation Square and follow the pedestrian route through Birrarung Marr.
The Australian Open recommends this route for visitors entering through the Birrarung Marr Entrance, approximately 900 metres from Flinders Street Station. It's a pleasant option if the weather is comfortable and you want to avoid another tram connection.
Option 2: Catch Tram Route 70 or 70A
Alternatively, follow signs to a Route 70 or 70a service travelling towards Melbourne Park. These trams serve designated stops around the Australian Open precinct.
For visitors heading to the Garden Square Entrance, get off at Stop 7B – Rod Laver Arena/MCG Gates 1–3.
Australian Open 2027 ticket holders can travel free on designated Route 70 and 70a tram services from 10 to 31 January. Keep your event ticket ready as proof of eligibility.
Step 4: Find the Correct Australian Open Entrance
Melbourne Park has multiple entrances, so choosing the right one can save unnecessary walking once you arrive.
| Entrance | Recommended arrival point |
|---|---|
| Birrarung Marr Entrance | Flinders Street Station or Tram Stop 7A |
| Garden Square Entrance | Tram Stop 7B or Jolimont Station |
| Grand Slam Oval Entrance | Tram Stop 7C or Richmond Station |
| Richmond Entrance | Richmond Station or Tram Stop 7D; open 17–24 January 2027 only |
How Long Does It Take to Get from St Kilda to Melbourne Park?
As a general planning allowance, set aside approximately 35–55 minutes to travel from the St Kilda Junction area to Melbourne Park by tram and walking or connecting transport.
This is an indicative allowance rather than a confirmed timetable duration. Your actual journey will depend on where you start, how long you wait for a tram, whether you transfer and which tournament entrance you use.
| Transport option | Travel time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Tram + walking | Allow around 35–55 minutes overall | Travellers who prefer fewer transfers |
| Tram + Route 70/70a | Allow around 35–55 minutes overall | Visitors wanting to arrive closer to the venue |
| Taxi or rideshare | Variable depending on traffic | Groups, luggage or travellers needing a direct journey |
| Bus Route 246 | Depends on starting point and service | Travellers staying near Punt Road |
These are planning estimates, not guaranteed journey times. Check live directions before leaving your accommodation.
It's also sensible to allow another 20–30 minutes for arriving at your entrance, passing through security and finding your seat, particularly for popular matches.
Other Ways to Get to the Australian Open from St Kilda
Trams are a convenient choice, but they're not your only option. Depending on your accommodation, budget and schedule, you might prefer a bus, taxi, rideshare or bicycle.
List of Services
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1. Take Bus Route 246List Item 1
Bus Route 246 travels along Punt Road towards the Richmond area, with stops near Olympic Boulevard and Swan Street. It's a useful alternative for travellers staying near Punt Road, although you should check the timetable and walking distance to Melbourne Park before departing.
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2. Book a Taxi or RideshareList Item 2
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber offer a direct journey from St Kilda to Melbourne Park, especially convenient for groups or travellers carrying luggage. However, fares may increase during major matches, and event-related road closures can affect drop-off locations and travel times.
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3. Cycle to Melbourne ParkList Item 3
Cycling from St Kilda to Melbourne Park is an option for active travellers comfortable with Melbourne's roads and shared paths. Check designated cycling routes and available bicycle parking before leaving, and bring a secure lock to keep your bike safe during matches.
Practical Travel Tips for Australian Open Visitors
Attending the Australian Open during Melbourne's busy summer season requires a little preparation. Whether you're visiting for a daytime session or a late-night match, these practical tips will help you enjoy a smoother experience at Melbourne Park.
- Arrive early: Allow at least 30 minutes before your match for crowded tram stops, security checks and finding your seat.
- Check tram services: Use the Transport Victoria website for updated routes, departure times and possible disruptions.
- Prepare for summer weather: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a refillable water bottle for Melbourne's hot January days.
- Plan your return journey: Check late-night tram connections to St Kilda, especially after evening matches.
- Save essential information: Download your Australian Open tickets and save your accommodation address, tram stops and venue entrance details.
Where to Stay in St Kilda During the Australian Open
St Kilda can be a practical accommodation base for Australian Open visitors who want to experience more of Melbourne beyond the tennis.
While Melbourne Park is closer to the CBD, staying in St Kilda gives travellers access to local cafés, restaurants, nightlife and the beach, along with public transport connections towards the city.
For backpackers and budget-conscious visitors, Pint on Punt Backpackers is one option worth considering.
Located at 42 Punt Road, the hostel is near St Kilda Junction, where citybound trams connect travellers with central Melbourne and onward transport to Melbourne Park.
Pint on Punt offers a choice of shared dormitories and private rooms, along with amenities suited to budget travellers, including:
- Free daily breakfast and Wi-Fi.
- Access to a communal kitchen and common areas.
- Affordable backpacker meals and drinks deals at the bar.
- Free tea, coffee and sugar.
- Social activities, including trivia nights and open mic events.
The location also makes it possible to explore St Kilda between tournament sessions. If you've got some free time, discover our guide to the best things to do in St Kilda, from local attractions to beachside experiences.
Explore Rooms & Book Your Australian Open Stay at Pint on Punt
