There is a high demand for parking spaces in the Melbourne CBD, as evidenced by data from Parking Australia, which shows that occupancy rates can reach up to 90% during peak hours. As a result, navigating Melbourne's CBD's busy streets can be difficult, particularly when trying to find cheap parking. In this guide by Drive mate, we'll share insider tips on how to score cheap parking in Melbourne CBD. Let's dive in and discover the best spots to park your car hassle-free!
Parking In Melbourne CBD
1. Street parking Melbourne CBD
Street parking in Melbourne CBD is challenging but cheaper if you're fortunate to find a space. Payment is required, and spots are limited, so allow extra time. Daytime limits are usually one hour, extending to two after 6:30 pm, ending at 8:30 pm. Rates vary, with a maximum hourly rate of $7.
2. Private Parking Melbourne
Private Parking Melbourne offers flexible options, including hourly rates and long-term solutions. Many CBD garages offer discounts for online booking or early arrivals, making them an ideal choice for those planning weekend getaways in
3. Melbourne Central car park
Melbourne Central car park caters to shoppers and offers convenient access to the shopping area. Daytime parking, from 7 am to 5 pm, costs $8 per hour with a $10 store purchase, or $16 per hour without. Evening parking after 5 pm is a flat $13 rate, and the early bird special, entering before 10 am and exiting after 3 pm, is $16.
4. Council House car park
Council House car park, managed by the City of Melbourne, offers affordable rates centrally. Located in the CBD, it has entrances at 200 Little Collins St, Russell Place, and Royal Lane. Weekday rates range from $6 for under 30 minutes to a maximum of $66. Night parking after 5 pm is $10. Weekend rates start at $5.
5. The District Docklands East & West Car Parks
The District Docklands East & West Car Parks offer affordable rates for visitors. Ideal for Marvel Stadium trips or dining in Docklands, rates start at $9.00 for 1-2 hours, with a daily max of $16.00. Early bird entry before 10 am costs $11.00. Evening and weekend rates apply, with discounts for HOYTS visitors. Monthly and prepaid packages are available on request.
Parking Option | Description Timings | Rates |
|---|---|---|
Street parking Melbourne CBD | Daytime limits usually one hour, extending to two after 6:30 pm, ending at 8:30 pm. | Maximum hourly rate of $7 |
Private Parking Melbourne | Secure-a-Spot allows bookings up to 45 days prior or even 15 minutes before entry. | Early-bird specials often offer the best value for all-day parking. |
Melbourne Central car park | Daytime parking from 7 am to 5 pm. Evening parking after 5 pm. Early bird special entering before 10 am and exiting after 3 pm. | Daytime: $8 per hour (with $10 store purchase), $16 per hour (without purchase) Evening: $13 flat rate |
Council House car park | Weekday rates, night parking after 5 pm, and weekend rates. | Weekday: $6 (under 30 minutes) to $66 maximum Night: $10 (after 5 pm) Weekend: starting at $5 |
The District Docklands East & West Car Parks | 1-2 hours, daily max, early bird entry before 10 am, evening and weekend rates. | 1-2 hours: $9.00 Daily max: $16.00 Early bird: $11.00 (entry before 10 am) |
Tips For Finding Cheap Parking In Melbourne CBD:
• Plan your weekend getaways in Melbourne and ahead and use online platforms or apps that offer discounted rates or special deals at various parking locations in the city.
• Another strategy is to look for early bird specials or weekend rates which can often be significantly cheaper than standard hourly prices.
• Consider parking further away from the central business district and taking public transportation into the city instead. This can save you money while still allowing you easy access to all that Melbourne has to offer.
• Keep an eye out for promotional offers from parking garages or businesses as well. They may have limited-time discounts that could help you score a great deal on parking during your visit.
Conclusion
In bustling Melbourne, affordable parking can be tricky, with high demand often leading to steep prices. However, there are savvy ways to save, such as utilizing The District Docklands, Council House, street parking, Melbourne Central, and private options. These tips come in handy for weekend getaways in Melbourne's CBD. And when it comes to transportation, Drive mate offers the best rental cars seamlessly aligning affordability with convenience. Once you join Drive mate you get access to top-notch cars for your travels, from daily rental cars to weekly rental cars. Next time you need a rental car, remember Drive mate for a hassle-free and cost-effective journey.
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