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$68 Cheap Flights from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

View $68 flight on Sat, Sep 12, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Sydney Airport (SYD) to Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Cheap Flights from Sydney to Melbourne (SYD-MEL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $68 for one-way flights and $135 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetstar
Wed, Aug 26 - Sun, Aug 30
SYD
Sydney
MEL
Melbourne
$135 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$135
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Wed, Aug 26 from Sydney to Melbourne, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $135 found 2 hours ago
Virgin Australia
Thu, Nov 5 - Sun, Nov 8
SYD
Sydney
MEL
Melbourne
$229 Roundtrip, just found
$229
Roundtrip
just found
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Thu, Nov 5 from Sydney to Melbourne, returning Sun, Nov 8, priced at $229 just found

Find the cheapest month to fly from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

November is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $99 - $187 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Kingsford Smith Intl. to Tullamarine

Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL) at a glance

Travel between Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL) with a range of airlines servicing this popular domestic route. Discover options for cheap Sydney to Melbourne flights, whether you prefer full-service or budget carriers, to find the itinerary that suits your travel plans and budget. As you prepare to explore Melbourne's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, gather all the essential information for flights from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
  • Flights per week: around 35+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $55–$260, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for non-stop flights from Sydney to Melbourne. These options allow you to tailor your journey according to price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you find the ideal itinerary for your needs.

  • Jetstar: This budget airline provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally between $55 and $210. It represents about 46% of departures on this route, and the total flight duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Virgin Australia: Another low-cost option, Virgin Australia features non-stop services, with one-way fares typically falling in the range of $75 to $350. This carrier accounts for around 38% of flights on this route, with a journey time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Qantas Airways: As a full-service airline, Qantas offers non-stop flights with one-way fares usually ranging from $100 to $555. It makes up about 16% of departures on this route, with a total travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Enhance your flight from Sydney to Melbourne by upgrading to business class. Both Virgin Australia and Qantas Airways provide this option, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience on your journey.

Best time to fly from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Sydney to Melbourne are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Melbourne reach up to 68.7°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 53.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $97). Flight availability peaks in January, with approximately 62 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $97, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: June typically offers an average one-way fare of around $110.
  • Most flight options: January has the highest number of flights from Sydney to Melbourne, with approximately 62 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January68.7°F (20.4°C)High62$159
February68.0°F (20.0°C)High42$126
March64.8°F (18.2°C)High38$148
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Average32$133
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Low21$97
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Low21$110
July48.9°F (9.4°C)Average26$119
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Average24$120
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Low23$148
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Average29$158
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Average32$146
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Average34$170

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative route from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

  • Sydney to Melbourne (SYD-AVV): Avalon Airport (AVV) is located approximately 32 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL). One-way economy prices for this journey generally fall between $35 and $185, influenced by the season and when you book. Typically, non-stop flights are available on this route. Major airlines operating here include Jetstar, a budget carrier, and Qantas Airways.

How to find the best prices for flights from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Sydney to Melbourne is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5am and 12pm also tend to be less expensive and are popular among flyers. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally offers lower prices, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Tullamarine Airport from Kingsford Smith International Airport

Melbourne welcomes travelers from Sydney with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Melbourne efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Melbourne, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tullamarine Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tullamarine Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Tullamarine Airport, several transportation options are easily accessible by car. Broadmeadows Station, a metro station, is located about 4.9 miles from the airport, while Strathmore Seaport, a seaport, is about 6.8 miles away. Additionally, Essendon Station, a train station, is situated around 8.5 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $68 and cheap return flights from $135 Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $57 and $912, and return flights often range between $140 and $1525. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
May is the cheapest month to fly from Sydney, NSW (SYD) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL), with average round-trip fares around $180. This price is about 11% lower than the average throughout the year, as May generally has less travel demand. Other economical months to consider are February and June.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Choose from 3 airlines operating direct flights from SYD to MEL:

  • Qantas Airways operates around 217 direct flights from SYD to MEL every week
  • Virgin Australia operates around 178 direct flights from SYD to MEL every week
  • Jetstar operates around 118 direct flights from SYD to MEL every week

How do I find cheap flights from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
To find a cheap flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The best airline to fly with from Sydney, NSW (SYD) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Qantas Airways offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Virgin Australia typically offers the lowest fares. Virgin Australia also offers the most daily flights from SYD to MEL, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
For flights from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL), the best times to fly are usually in May and June, with average return flight prices around $180. These months are less crowded compared to peak travel times, allowing you to enjoy lower fares and a more relaxed travel experience. You'll find plenty of options available, making it easy to plan your trip.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
There are approximately 73 nonstop flights per day from Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD) to Tullamarine (MEL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The earliest flight from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL) usually departs at around 6:00 AM, operated by Jetstar. This service runs year-round, giving you flexibility for your travel plans. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Virgin Australia, Qantas Airways, and Jetstar, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored because it allows travelers to maximize their day in Melbourne upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Direct flights from SYD to MEL usually take about 1 hour 30 minutes, traveling roughly 438 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 50 minutes to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
You can fly business class between SYD and MEL. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Qantas Airways
  • Virgin Australia
  • Jetstar

How much is a business class flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Sydney, NSW (SYD) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) typically costs between $869 - $1,831. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $408 - $887. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Melbourne from Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD)?
From Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD), you can fly into Avalon (AVV), Orlando Melbourne Intl. (MLB) and Tullamarine (MEL) in Melbourne. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) Melbourne Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
If you booked your Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Kingsford Smith Intl.
Destination airport
Tullamarine
Airlines serving
Jetstar, Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia
Roundtrip price
$134
Distance
437 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 35 mins

Book with confidence

Sydney to Melbourne Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Sydney to Melbourne

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Sydney to Melbourne are during the month of August. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Sydney to Melbourne with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Sydney to Melbourne

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Sydney to Melbourne: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Sydney to Melbourne

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Sydney to Melbourne in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $68 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Sydney to Melbourne flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Sydney to Melbourne airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Sydney to Melbourne Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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