Melbourne's public transport system is called Metlink  (tel: 131 638, in Australia only; website: www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au) and it incorporates buses, trams and trains with interchangeable tickets available.

Most people get around the city by using the extensive tram network. Trams stop at numbered tram-stop signs, often placed on platforms in the middle of the road. To get off the tram, press the red button near handrails or pull the cord above your head.

Metcard tickets allow travel on Melbourne's buses, trains and trams, using a single ticket. Ordinary tickets for short journeys are valid for two hours. Buy them on the tram, bus, or train. An all-day Metcard is better value for a number of journeys within the city centre and near surrounds. Buy them from the City Metshop at the Melbourne Town Hall, located on the corner of Swanston Street and Collins Street, at most newsagents, or at Metcard vending machines located at railway stations. Weekly passes are ideal for a longer stay in Melbourne. Validate them in the machines located at the entrance to train stations or on-board trams.

The City Circle Tram is a free tram service that runs in both directions around the city centre daily 1000-1800, and up to 2100 during spring and summer. Trams operate every 12 minutes - the entire route takes about 40 minutes and passes many of Melbourne's attractions, with commentary provided. Yarra Trams (tel: 131 638, in Australia only; website: www.yarratrams.com.au) operates all trams in Melbourne.

The bus network is also extensive and is operated by different private companies on varying routes. Buses mostly operate Monday to Saturday 0500-2400, and Sunday 0700-2300. On weekends there is also a limited night bus service.

The main train station in Melbourne for suburban routes is Flinders Street Station. Connex (website: www.connexmelbourne.com.au) operates all trains covering suburban Melbourne. Services run Monday to Saturday 0500-2400 and Sunday 0700-2400. For timetable information see the Connex website or call Metlink on 131 638.

Taxis are available for hire on the street or are found waiting at train and bus stations. Operators include Silver Top (tel: 131 008, in Australia only), Embassy (tel: 131 755, in Australia only or (03) 9277 3444) and Black Cabs Combined (tel 132 227, in Australia only). A large, illuminated rooftop light indicates that a cab is available. Tipping is not expected.

Driving around Melbourne is fairly straightforward, as many roads are wide, with two or three lanes, although care has to be taken where there are tram routes. Special road rules exist - cars may only overtake trams on the left and must queue on the left in order to turn right at intersections marked by ‘Safety Zone' signs, in order to accommodate the trams. The rush hours are generally weekdays 0700-0930 and 1700-1900, although there is also notorious ‘footy traffic' near the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on weekends during the AFL season (April to September). There are numerous car parks and parking meters all over the city.

The minimum age for car hire is 21 years. It is usually requested that the hire be paid for with the driver's credit card. Compulsory third party insurance is required in Victoria and this is often included in the hire price.

Major car hire companies include Avis (tel: 136 333, in Australia only, or (03) 9663 6366; website: www.avis.com.au), Budget (tel: 1300 794 344, in Australia only or (03) 9241 6366; website: www.budget.com.au) and Hertz (tel: 133 039, in Australia only or (03) 9338 4044; website: www.hertz.com.au).

Bicycle paths wind through the city and suburbs. For various publications and maps detailing recommended rides and trails, contact  Bicycle Victoria (tel: (03) 8636 8888; website: www.bv.com.au). Most good bookshops also sell many of the publications found here.

You can rent a bike from St Kilda Pier Bike Hire at St Kilda Pier (tel: (03) 9531 7403). Non-Australians must show their passports.