The Melbourne Cup is a huge event, with over 110,000 people likely to be in attendance. While this creates an exciting day full of colour, noise, and fun, there can also be a number of logistical problems associated with transport and parking. Luckily, there are a number of options available on the day, including public transport, public car parks, and a selection of Melbourne Cup parking options.
Flemington Racecourse is the location of the Melbourne Cup, located 6km northwest of the Melbourne CBD. The racecourse is bounded on the south and west by the Maribyrnong River, on the southeast by the Princes Highway, and on the northeast by Epsom Rd. While it is not difficult getting to Flemington, parking can be a problem in the streets around the venue.
Luckily, there is public car parking available throughout the Spring Carnival, which opens at 8.30am on Derby Day and Cup Day and 9.00am on Oaks Day and Stakes Day. Use of the centre public car park is $20 for the day, with entry via Smithfield Road at the Stables Drive Entrance. As well as the public car park, there are also members and corporate parking.
We recommend trying to get to Flemington as early as possible to prevent being caught in traffic.
Trains
Flemington trains will leave Flinders Street Station (platforms 8 & 9), with stops at Southern Cross Station (platform 14) and North Melbourne Station (platform 6), then express to Flemington racecourse.
Please note, no alcohol is allowed on the train and on the spot fines for those who do will be given. (not a great way to start the day)
Trams
Catch the 57 tram from the corner of Elizabeth and Flinders street. Trams will then stop at Flemington Drive off Epsom Road before Flemington racecourse.
Bus
Catch Route 472 from Williamstown, Footscray or Moonee Ponds and alight on Fisher Parade, near the Riverbank entrance. Catch the Route 404 from Footscray or Moonee Ponds and alight on Smithfield Road.
Coming From Out Of Town?
If you are coming from out of town and are arriving before Cup day we recommend the SkyBus express service which operates between the city centre and Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine). They operate 24/7 including all public holidays (Melbourne Cup day). This will cost each person about $20-25 including a train ticket to the racecourse.
If you are arriving on the morning of the Melbourne Cup a taxi from the airport will cost about $40-$50 to Flemington racecourse.
How to get to Flemington on Melbourne Cup day?
The train is the best way to get to Flemington racecourse on Melbourne Cup day. Follow the local train timetable for the fastest way to get to Flemington racecourse.
How to get to Flemington via boat from Melbourne?
Many punters like to arrive at Flemington in style and what’s more stylish than arriving by boat? A short trip up the Maribyrnong river can be arranged by a number of boat charters and is a great way to commute to the course.
