When most people think of Melbourne in summer, one word comes to mind: tennis. The city is famous around the world as the home of the year’s first Grand Slam tournament, where the world’s best players battle it out on the court and fans flock from across Australia and beyond.
But tennis is only the beginning. Melbourne’s electric summer vibe spills out into the streets, the banks of the Yarra River, laneway cafés, rooftop bars, and cultural hotspots. Pair that with a road trip beyond the city — to beaches, wineries, or mountain escapes — and you’ve got the ultimate Australian holiday.
Whether you’re flying in for the action or planning a local getaway, a rental car from Melbourne Airport or the CBD gives you the freedom to explore the city and its stunning surrounds at your own pace.
The Tennis Capital of Australia
Every summer, Melbourne transforms into the heart of the tennis world. Fans gather at arenas, live sites, and big screens across the city to soak up the excitement. From global icons to emerging stars, the city buzzes with sporting energy that extends well beyond the courts.
But even if you’re not a die-hard tennis fan, the atmosphere is irresistible. Street performers, food festivals, and live music pop up across town, while restaurants and bars run themed menus and extended hours to keep the celebrations alive long after the final set.
For travellers, it’s the perfect time to see Melbourne at its most vibrant.
Beyond the Tennis: Exploring Melbourne by Car
Melbourne isn’t just about sport. It’s a city that thrives on culture, coffee, and creativity — and hiring a car makes it easy to experience both the inner city and its outer gems.
Must-See Spots in the City
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Laneways & Street Art: Hosier Lane and AC/DC Lane showcase Melbourne’s artistic edge.
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Federation Square: A hub for events, galleries, and live screenings.
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Royal Botanic Gardens: A tranquil oasis just minutes from the CBD.
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Southbank: Perfect for dining by the Yarra and soaking in the city skyline.
Driving Adventures Just Outside the CBD
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St Kilda: Only 15 minutes from the city, famous for its beach, boardwalk, and lively food scene.
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Mornington Peninsula: An hour’s drive, offering wineries, hot springs, and seaside villages.
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Great Ocean Road: One of the world’s most scenic drives, featuring the Twelve Apostles and surf towns like Torquay.
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Yarra Valley: Just over an hour from Melbourne, known for world-class wine, local produce, and wildlife encounters.
With a rental car, you’re not limited to trams and train timetables — you’re free to craft your own itinerary.
Why Hire a Car in Melbourne During Tennis Season?
Tennis brings in visitors from across the globe, which means accommodation, restaurants, and transport can all get busy. A rental car gives you:
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Flexibility: Come and go as you please, without relying on public transport crowds.
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Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles with room for luggage, snacks, and souvenirs.
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Freedom: Explore regional Victoria on day trips between matches.
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Choice: Redspot’s fleet includes compact cars for solo travellers, SUVs for families, and premium options for those wanting extra comfort.
Booking early during peak season is essential — it ensures you get the vehicle you need at the best price.
Family-Friendly Melbourne Experiences
Travelling with kids? Melbourne during tennis season has plenty to keep the whole family entertained:
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Live sites and fan zones: Big screens, entertainment, and family activities.
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Melbourne Zoo & SEA LIFE Aquarium: Perfect off-court adventures.
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Scienceworks Museum: Interactive exhibits for curious minds.
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Beaches: St Kilda and Brighton are easy drives for a fun day by the water.
With a hire car, you can easily switch from city attractions to family-friendly day trips without the hassle of navigating multiple public transport routes.
Food, Wine & Nightlife
Melbourne’s food scene is world-famous. While tennis season puts the spotlight on pop-up dining and outdoor food festivals, the city’s restaurants, bars, and cafés are always buzzing.
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Laneway cafés: Fuel up with some of Australia’s best coffee.
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Southbank dining: Riverside restaurants with global menus.
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Chinatown: Iconic dumplings and late-night eats.
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Rooftop bars: Perfect for a summer sunset drink.
Venture further afield with your rental car, and you can discover:
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Mornington Peninsula: Boutique wineries and seaside dining.
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Yarra Valley: Fine dining paired with vineyard views.
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Daylesford & Hepburn Springs: Farm-to-table restaurants in spa country.
Tips for a Stress-Free Melbourne Road Trip
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Book your car hire early: Demand spikes during big events, so secure your vehicle well in advance.
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Plan for traffic: Allow extra travel time around the CBD, especially during major matches.
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Check parking: Many inner-city hotels and event venues offer parking, but spaces can be limited.
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Consider insurance options: Reduce your damage liability for peace of mind on busy city streets.
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Use toll pass waivers: Melbourne has toll roads — Redspot’s toll pass options make it easy to cruise through without hassle.
Why Redspot Car Rentals?
When it comes to exploring Melbourne, Redspot makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination:
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🚗 Airport convenience: Pick up your rental car straight after your flight.
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🚗 Wide fleet range: From compact city cars to spacious SUVs.
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🚗 Transparent packages: Easy-to-understand cover and toll pass options.
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🚗 Unlimited kilometres: Perfect for road trips across Victoria.
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🚗 24/7 roadside assistance: Confidence for every kilometre.
Whether you’re here for the tennis, the food, the culture, or the coastline, Redspot gives you the keys to make your Melbourne trip unforgettable.
Final Thoughts: Melbourne at Its Best
Few cities combine sport, culture, food, and adventure quite like Melbourne. The tennis might be the headline act, but the supporting cast of attractions, road trips, and experiences make it a destination worth exploring year-round.
So whether you’re cheering courtside, wandering the laneways, or cruising down the Great Ocean Road, make the most of your trip with a Redspot rental car. It’s the simplest way to explore Melbourne and Victoria with freedom, comfort, and confidence.
👉 Book your Melbourne car hire with Redspot today and start planning your Grand Slam adventure.