If you are planning a trip to Melbourne soon, you can be sure you will enjoy one of the most dynamic and busiest cities in Australia. The problem is that getting a decent parking spot is quite difficult because of the high volume of tourists and the congested roadways. Luckily, there are some tips you can follow to make your parking stress-free.
Find the available parking options
Research the available parking options before you arrive in Melbourne, as this will provide you with a general notion of the cost and locations.
Be sure to add in extra time and money for parking if you plan to visit a famous tourist spot.
You can also check out online or download an app that lets you know the availability of parking garages, lots, and street parking.
For example, suppose you want to check out Collins Street. In that case, you can check out the available parking spots at MCG parking and avoid wasting your precious time and energy wandering around Melbourne looking for a parking place.
These apps are lifesavers that can help you wherever you go.
Parking at the Melbourne Airport
Reserve your space online
The new option for booking your parking spot online makes parking at Melbourne Airport a breeze. The car park offers both covered self-parking and valet services, and a shuttle bus will take you to the airport terminal quickly.
Having a reasonably priced, guaranteed airport parking spot removes any anxiety you may have about arriving at the airport.
With a price of roughly $50 on average, driving to the airport and parking is the most reasonable option for groups of two or more individuals travelling.
Look for online discounts
If you look for inexpensive parking coupons at the same time you book your flight, you can save a lot of money.
Parking lots often provide discount coupons to fill their spaces. So, it is worthwhile to find those discounts online, since they might vary from 3% off to 50% off.
Make sure your keys are safe
You can leave your vehicle and keys at the gate and someone else will park it at Melbourne Airport thanks to their valet service.
To ensure that your vehicle is returned to you in pristine condition, they also offer additional services such as car washes and detailing.
Use public transport
Taking the bus or train is a great way to escape the stress of searching for a parking spot in Melbourne.
You can easily get to the city's most famous landmarks through the well-developed system of railroads, trams, and buses.
This option is also better for the environment, so why not think about it? Consider getting a Myki card, which you can use on all kinds of public transport.
You can also download apps like PTV or Google Maps where you can plan your journey and check for any service delays.
After all, you can easily get around Melbourne thanks to its efficient public transportation system which offers regular services and well-connected routes.
Alternative parking options
It could be worth looking into other options if you are really looking for a decent parking place in the busy districts of Melbourne.
If you plan to visit a local tourist destination, you can use free parking from some retail centres. Another option is to use a car-sharing service, such as Car Next Door, or to search for street parking in the neighbourhoods.
Don't forget to read signs and regulations before you choose your parking spots, as you don't want to end up with some parking tickets and other legal trouble.
Follow all parking regulations and signs
Be mindful of parking restrictions and signage while you're in Melbourne. If you follow these steps, you won't have to worry about getting a ticket for parking in a restricted location.
Time limitations, permission requirements, and loading zone restrictions are all clearly marked on the signs, so be sure to read and follow them.
Keep in mind that parking may be more or less difficult depending on the day and time of any special events or road closures.
Of course, you can always ask a local or get in touch with the municipality if you want additional information about parking laws.
This can help you make your stay in Melbourne more comfortable and enjoyable.
Free parking days
Did you know that on holidays, parking is completely free? On holidays, certain parking signs do not apply. In such cases, you can park for free and for how long you want or need to.
No parking signage displaying the day of the week will be enforced on public holidays. Sign panels that specify the days of the week (such as Mon-Fri, Sat, or Sun) will be essentially blank during national holidays.
Avoid peak hours
If you try to look for a parking spot during non-peak times, you will have less trouble. For example, come early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as this way you will avoid traffic congestion and it will be much easier to find the parking spot.
Also, parking is usually more affordable during these hours. If you go to the city at around 7 am or 8 am, you'll have a secure parking spot as you will avoid the crowd of commuters rushing to their work.
When it comes to leaving the city, you should do that after 7 pm, when the crowd is smaller, so you can enjoy a smooth trip.
Park and ride
There is a well-developed system of park-and-ride lots in Melbourne that is linked to the city's public transport. You just need to park your car in one of those lots and then take the first bus or train to explore Melbourne. This can save you a lot of money and time rather than when you go around the city without any clue about where you should park.
- Doncaster Park and Ride bus station
Finding a parking spot in Melbourne can be a lot easier if you follow these steps. Plan ahead, use park and ride options and online apps, avoid peak hours, and you'll be on the good way to enjoy your Melbourne adventure.
