As one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse cities, Melbourne offers visitors an array of unique experiences, from its rich arts scene to its world-class dining and shopping options. And if you’re looking to spend some time in the area, consider hiring a car to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share some of our insider tips for finding the best car hire service once you land at the airport, saving you money, and uncovering Melbourne’s lesser-known attractions with a car hire Tullamarine.
Choosing the Right Car Hire Service in Tullamarine
When hiring a car in Tullamarine, you’ll want to choose a reputable company that offers a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices. You must consider the company’s reputation, location, vehicle selection, pricing, and if they have available extras or add-ons.
Additionally, consider the type of vehicle you’ll need, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger SUV for road trips. Look for a car hire Tullamarine service that meets all your requirements.
Tips for a Smooth Car Hire Experience at Tullamarine Airport
Hiring a car at Tullamarine Airport is a convenient option for many travellers. To ensure a smooth experience, follow these tips:
- Book in advance: Hiring a car in Tullamarine can be competitive, especially during peak travel seasons. To get the confidence that you’re getting the best deal and vehicle of your choice, book your car hire Tullamarine service well in advance.
- Research and compare different companies: Take the time to research and compare car hire companies at Tullamarine Airport. Look for reviews, prices, and available vehicles to find the best fit for your needs.
- Familiarize yourself with hire procedures: Before arriving at the airport, familiarize yourself with the car hire process. This step should include understanding the required documentation, payment methods, and if there will be any additional fees.
- Inspect the vehicle before driving away: Before leaving the hire car lot, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage. Take photos and report any issues to the car hire company to avoid being held responsible for pre-existing damage.
- Keep all relevant documentation handy: Ensure you have your driver’s license, hire agreement, and any other necessary documentation with you while driving the hire car.
Saving Money on Car Hires in Tullamarine
Hiring a car in Tullamarine doesn’t have to break the bank. Follow these tips to save money on your car hire Tullamarine experience:
- Book in advance: As mentioned earlier, booking your hire car ahead of time can help you secure the best deal.
- Compare prices: Take the time to research and compare prices from different car hire companies to find the best deal.
- Choose a fuel-efficient vehicle: Opt for a car with good fuel economy to save on gas expenses during your trip.
- Look for discounts and promotions: Keep an eye out for special offers, discounts, or promotions that can help you save on your hire.
- Purchase comprehensive insurance: While it might seem counterintuitive, protecting you from costly damage fees can save you money in the long run.
- Opt for unlimited mileage: If you plan on driving long distances, choosing a hire car with unlimited mileage can help you avoid extra costs.
Uncovering Melbourne’s Lesser-Known Attractions with a Car Hire from Tullamarine
With a hire car at your disposal, you’ll easily uncover Melbourne’s lesser-known attractions. We’ve grouped these off-the-beaten-path destinations into four categories: scenic drives, local cuisine, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions.
Scenic Drives
- Macedon Ranges: Just an hour’s drive from Tullamarine, the Macedon Ranges offer beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites. Drive along country roads, stopping at wineries, galleries, and gardens along the way.
- Bellarine Peninsula: Discover picturesque coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and boutique wineries on this stunning peninsula southwest of Melbourne. Drive along the coast, stopping at scenic lookouts and sampling local produce.
- Black Spur Drive: This winding road through the Yarra Ranges National Park offers breathtaking views of towering mountain ash trees, lush ferns, and dramatic landscapes. Stop for a picnic or hike in the park to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
- Wilson’s Promontory: A few hours’ drive southeast of Tullamarine, Wilson’s Promontory National Park boasts stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Drive along the coast, stopping at lookouts and walking trails to immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery.
Local Cuisine
- Footscray: This multicultural suburb offers diverse international cuisine, from Ethiopian injera to Vietnamese pho. Explore the bustling streets and indulge in a culinary adventure.
- Prahran Market: Melbourne’s oldest market is home to a wide range of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and delicious street eats. Sample local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
- Smith Street, Collingwood: Known for its eclectic mix of eateries, Smith Street offers something for every palate, from vegan cafes to Spanish tapas bars. Enjoy a leisurely meal and soak up the hipster vibe.
- Fitzroy: This trendy suburb is home to numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Dine in a converted warehouse, rooftop garden, or cozy courtyard.
Outdoor Adventures
- Hanging Rock: This unique geological formation in the Macedon Ranges offers breathtaking views and a range of walking trails. Explore the mysterious rock, enjoy a picnic, or attend one of the many events held annually.
- Point Nepean National Park: Located at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, this park offers stunning coastal scenery, historic military sites, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Drive along the park’s roads, stopping at lookouts and walking trails.
- Werribee Gorge State Park: Just a short drive from Tullamarine, this rugged park features dramatic cliffs, a scenic river, and a range of hiking trails. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city.
- You Yangs Regional Park: This park, located between Melbourne and Geelong, offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Drive through the park and stop at various points of interest to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
Family-Friendly Attractions
- Scienceworks: This interactive science museum in Melbourne’s west offers hands-on exhibits, live shows, and planetarium presentations. A fun and educational day out for the whole family.
- Collingwood Children’s Farm: Located along the Yarra River, this urban farm offers children the chance to interact with animals, learn about farming, and enjoy the outdoors. A perfect family-friendly destination close to the city.
- Melbourne Museum: This award-winning museum features a range of exhibits, including a living rainforest, an Aboriginal cultural centre, and a children’s gallery. An engaging and educational experience for all ages.
- Healesville Sanctuary: A short drive from Tullamarine, this wildlife sanctuary offers the chance to see native Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and platypi, up close. Enjoy daily presentations and interactive experiences.
Exploring Melbourne’s Art Scene
- Hosier Lane: This famous laneway in Melbourne’s city centre is known for its ever-changing street art and vibrant graffiti. Wander through the alley, admiring the creativity and taking photos of the colourful murals.
- National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): As Australia’s oldest and largest public art gallery, the NGV houses an extensive international and Australian art collection. Explore the gallery’s exhibitions and attend special events or workshops.
- Gertrude Street, Fitzroy: This trendy street is home to several contemporary art galleries showcasing emerging and established artists. Stroll through the galleries and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s thriving art scene.
- Heide Museum of Modern Art: Located in the suburb of Bulleen, this unique museum is set within a beautiful park and features modern and contemporary Australian art. Explore the indoor and outdoor exhibitions, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Relaxing in Melbourne’s Parks and Gardens
- Royal Botanic Gardens: These stunning gardens, located just south of the city centre, offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy a picnic, or attend one of the many events held throughout the year.
- Fitzroy Gardens: This historic park in the heart of Melbourne features beautiful lawns, flowerbeds, and tree-lined avenues. Visit the charming Conservatory, the model Tudor Village, and the landmark Cook’s Cottage.
- Albert Park: Home to the Australian Grand Prix, this large park offers a range of recreational activities, including walking, cycling, and sailing on the picturesque lake. Enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery and watch the local wildlife.
- St Kilda Botanical Gardens: Located in the bayside suburb of St Kilda, these tranquil gardens feature a variety of native and exotic plants, a rose garden, and a conservatory. Relax in the peaceful surroundings and take in the beauty of the gardens.
Shopping in Melbourne’s Unique Boutiques and Markets
- Queen Victoria Market: This iconic Melbourne market is a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast. Browse the numerous stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, souvenirs, and more. Remember to sample some delicious street food while you’re there.
- Chapel Street, South Yarra: This famous shopping strip is home to a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage stores, and popular fashion chains. Explore the shops and enjoy a coffee or meal in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
- Brunswick Street, Fitzroy: Known for its alternative vibe, Brunswick Street offers an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and quirky shops. Browse the unique offerings and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
- High Street, Northcote: This trendy shopping strip in Melbourne’s north is home to a range of independent boutiques, homeware stores, and artisanal shops. Discover unique finds and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Discovering Melbourne’s Rich History and Architecture
- Old Melbourne Gaol: This historic prison, located in the city’s heart, once housed some of Australia’s most notorious criminals, including the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly. Take a guided tour to learn about the prison’s dark history and explore the eerie cells.
- State Library Victoria: This magnificent library, with its stunning domed reading room, is an architectural gem and an important cultural institution. Browse the library’s extensive collection, attend a free exhibition, or simply marvel at the beautiful building.
- Shrine of Remembrance: This iconic war memorial, nestled in the Kings Domain parklands, honours the men and women who served in Australia’s armed forces. Climb to the top for panoramic city views, and attend one of the many commemorative events held annually.
- St Patrick’s Cathedral: This impressive Gothic Revival-style cathedral in East Melbourne is the largest church in Australia. Admire the intricate architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoying Melbourne’s Vibrant Nightlife
- Federation Square: This bustling public square, located in the heart of the city, is a hub for events, entertainment, and dining. Enjoy a drink at one of the many bars, catch a live performance, or soak up the atmosphere.
- Southbank: This lively riverside precinct offers a range of dining, entertainment, and shopping options. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, take a scenic river cruise, or try your luck at the Crown Casino.
- Chinatown: Melbourne’s Chinatown, located along Little Bourke Street, is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Enjoy a night out exploring the lively streets and sampling delicious Asian cuisine.
- St Kilda: This popular bayside suburb offers a range of nightlife options, from laid-back bars and live music venues to bustling nightclubs. Enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar, catch a live band, or dance the night away at a club.
Visiting Melbourne’s Quirky and Unique Attractions
- ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image): This unique museum, located in Federation Square, celebrates the world of film, television, and digital culture. Explore the interactive exhibits, attend a film screening, or participate in a workshop.
- Melbourne’s Laneways: The city’s iconic laneways are home to hidden bars, street art, and unique shops. Wander through the narrow streets, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the urban atmosphere.
- Brighton Beach Boxes: These colourful bathing boxes, located on Brighton Beach, are a popular attraction and a great photo opportunity. Enjoy a day at the beach and marvel at the vibrant boxes, each with its own unique design.
- Penguin Parade, Phillip Island: A short drive from Tullamarine, Phillip Island is home to a colony of Little Penguins. Each evening, visitors can watch the penguins return to their burrows after a day at sea – a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
With a car hire from Tullamarine, you’ll have the freedom to explore Melbourne and its surroundings at your own pace, uncovering hidden treasures and creating lasting memories. Follow our tips for choosing the right car hire service, saving money, and discovering the city’s lesser-known attractions to make the most of your visit.