Welcome to Melbourne, an Australian city renowned for its rich and diverse culture, world-class coffee, and exceptional quality of life. Here, you’ll have a unique holiday experience you’re unlikely to forget.
However, one thing you should know about this city is that it comes with some equally unique driving quirks that can be challenging for visitors to navigate. But fear not! This guide will give you the rundown on everything from sharing the road with Melbourne’s iconic trams to mastering the dreaded hook turn, so that you can enjoy your visit with the confidence of a local.
Start with Some Due Diligence
First things first, you should never get into an unfamiliar rental car without doing some checks of your own. Check the treads of the tires, that the windshield wipers are working and do a check of the brakes before you take off.
Sometimes things go wrong – even on holiday. To ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy throughout your trip, it’s essential to plan ahead. Finding a trustworthy mechanic in Tullamarine near the airport is especially crucial for vacationers – it may be wise to have your vehicle checked by a professional before embarking on long road trips in unfamiliar areas. Look for a mechanic with transparent pricing, experience with your vehicle type, and positive reviews from locals and visitors alike, so that if anything does go wrong during your visit, you have a trusted point of contact to support you.
Although your insurance or car rental company should cover the costs, doing your own due diligence gives you that extra dose of safety and peace of mind to explore the city without worry.
Trams, Buses, Trains!
Melbourne is home to one of the most iconic forms of transportation in the world: the tram. This city relies heavily on trams and other methods of public transit to keep people moving. As a visiting driver, it is your responsibility to learn how to share the roads safely with trams, buses, and trains during your visit.
Trams often share the road with cars. While you may pass a tram, you may only do so while the tram is in motion. When passengers are boarding or exiting the tram, drivers must stop behind them to ensure their safety. Some areas, such as a portion of Swanston Street near the iconic State Library, are designated for tram travel only. It’s important to pay attention to signage and road markings to ensure your rental car remains where it is permitted.
Buses often have priority lanes and will stop frequently for passengers. Stay alert to know when and where to give way. Trains can impact traffic due to level crossings – a point where a railway line and a road intersect at the same level, rather than being separated by an overpass or underpass. This can delay traffic significantly. If you encounter a train crossing, watch for warning systems, such as flashing lights and lowered barriers, to determine when to stop and when to proceed.
What’s the Deal with Hook Turns?
Many drivers struggle in Melbourne due to the famous, albeit confusing, hook turns. These are only found in the CBD and clearly marked by traffic signs. Hook turns involve you moving to the far left side of the road to turn right, which feels counterintuitive. They are required when turning right at an intersection where trams are in operation. Fortunately, once you understand a hook turn, you’ll have no trouble.
To perform a hook turn, stay in the left lane at the middle of the intersection with your right turn signal on. Inch forward as you wait for the lights to change. Once the light facing you has turned red and the light for the road you’re turning into has turned green, make your right turn. If you’re still unsure about hook turns, consider using public transportation in the CBD until you feel confident.
Driving Near Pedestrians and Cyclists
Melbourne is a pedestrian-friendly city, and you will often encounter throngs of people crossing the street near shopping centres, tram stops, and the CBD. Pedestrian crossings have zebra markings, and in school zones, a lollipop person will instruct you about when to stop and when to go. At these locations, drivers must give way to pedestrians, even when making a turn. Be wary of potential jaywalkers in busy areas!
Likewise, Melbourne is home to many avid cyclists. Although there are many bike lanes, cyclists often share the road with cars. Be cautious around cyclists, and try to give them as much room as possible.
The Pitfalls of Parking
Street parking in Melbourne is limited, tight, and often metered. Any Melburnian will tell you that paying for parking is not optional – you almost certainly will be fined if you don’t. Pay close attention to signage near street parking spaces. Signs will clearly indicate whether you can park, how long you can park, and how to pay for your spot. Some residential areas only allow parking for permitted drivers, so ensure you choose a public parking space. EasyPark is the city’s recommended app for paid parking. If you’re on a budget, you may be able to find free parking in shopping centres, so be sure to plan ahead or give yourself extra time to seek it out.
Key Takeaways
Driving in Melbourne is complex yet, with so much to see, it is also really rewarding, offering you the chance to experience life like a local. Here’s how:
- Give way to trams, buses, and trains to ensure your own safety and the safety of passengers.
- Review how to make a hook turn before you try it, but don’t be afraid to use public transit in the CBD if you’re feeling unsure.
- Always stop at pedestrian crossings and stay alert for cyclists sharing the road with you.
- Find a reliable, trustworthy mechanic to service your car before long road trips.
- Ensure you plan ahead for parking and understand where to park, when to park, and how to pay for it.
