Melbourne is one of Australia’s busiest cities. Whether you’re heading to work, catching a flight, going to a party, or just exploring the city, having a reliable taxi service makes life easier. Many people in Melbourne prefer taxis because they are fast, safe, and comfortable. But for some, especially new residents or tourists, booking a taxi might feel confusing.
In this blog, we’ll explain how to book a taxi in Melbourne in the simplest way. You’ll learn about the different ways to book, what to expect during your ride, how much it may cost, and the best tips to make your taxi ride smooth and stress-free.
Why Choose a Taxi in Melbourne?
Before we jump into how to book a taxi, let’s understand why so many people choose taxis in Melbourne:
- Taxis are available 24/7 – any time of day or night.
- Professional drivers – licensed, trained, and know the city well.
- Comfortable rides – clean cars with air conditioning.
- Safe for solo travelers – especially late at night or in new areas.
- No need to drive yourself – relax and let someone else handle traffic.
Ways to Book a Taxi in Melbourne
There are four main ways to book a taxi in Melbourne. Let’s go through each of them step-by-step.
1. Phone Booking
This is the traditional and still a very popular method, especially for older passengers.
How to do it:
- Call the taxi company’s booking number.
- Give your pickup address and destination.
- Mention any special requests (like wheelchair access or baby seats).
- The operator will confirm your booking and tell you the estimated time of arrival.
Pros:
- Good for people who don’t use apps.
- You can ask questions directly.
Tips:
- Speak clearly.
- Always confirm the booking at the end.
2. Using a Taxi Booking App
Most taxi companies in Melbourne have their own mobile apps. These apps are simple and quick to use.
Steps to book:
- Download the taxi app from Google Play or the Apple App Store.
- Register with your name and mobile number.
- Turn on your location (GPS).
- Set your pickup location and destination.
- Choose vehicle type (regular, premium, maxi, etc.).
- Confirm booking and track the driver in real-time.
Pros:
- Fast and convenient.
- You can see fare estimates and arrival times.
- Pay directly through the app.
Popular Taxi Apps in Melbourne:
- 13cabs App
- Silver Top Taxi App
- Black & White Cabs App
3. Online Booking (Through a Website)
If you prefer using a computer or don’t want to download apps, you can book taxis online.
Steps:
- Visit the taxi company’s website.
- Click on “Book a Taxi” or similar option.
- Fill in the booking form with your details.
- Choose date, time, address, and vehicle type.
- Submit the form.
- You’ll get confirmation by email or SMS.
Pros:
- Easy for those who use laptops or desktops.
- Good for advance bookings (like airport trips).
4. Street Hailing and Taxi Ranks
You don’t always need to book. Sometimes you can hail a taxi on the street or find one at a taxi rank.
Taxi Ranks in Melbourne are located at:
- Southern Cross Station
- Flinders Street Station
- Federation Square
- Melbourne Airport
What to look for:
- Taxis with a roof sign that is lit up mean they are available.
- Just raise your hand to signal the driver.
Pros:
- Fastest way if you’re already on the street.
- No need for apps or bookings.
Understanding Taxi Fares in Melbourne
Taxi fares in Melbourne are regulated. That means the prices are usually fixed, with small variations depending on the time and distance.
Here is a simple breakdown of how taxi fares work:
| Fare Component | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Flagfall (start price) | \$4.20 |
| Distance rate (per km) | \$1.62 |
| Time rate (per minute) | \$0.57 |
| Booking fee (if booked) | \$2.00 |
| Late-night surcharge | May apply (extra 20%) after midnight |
Extra charges may apply for:
- Tolls
- Airport pickups
- Large group vehicles (maxi taxis)
Tip: Always ask the driver for an estimated fare before the trip starts, or check it on the app.
Payment Methods
Most taxis in Melbourne accept:
- Cash
- Credit and Debit Cards
- App-based payments
- Cabcharge cards
Make sure to check with the driver before the ride if you’re using a special payment method.
Booking a Taxi for Special Needs
Melbourne taxis are inclusive. You can request special vehicles for:
- Wheelchair-accessible taxis
- Taxis with baby capsules
- Taxis for group travel (Maxi taxis)
Just make sure to mention your requirement while booking.
Taxi for Airport Transfers
Taxis are a reliable way to reach or leave the airport.
From Airport to City:
- Find taxis outside each terminal.
- There are usually signs to guide you.
From City to Airport:
- Book 24 hours in advance to avoid delays.
- Mention flight details for better timing.
Tip: Taxis are allowed to use special airport lanes, which often makes the journey faster.
Taxi Safety Tips for Passengers
Your safety is important. Follow these tips during your taxi ride:
- Always note the taxi registration number and driver ID.
- Sit in the back seat if you’re alone.
- Share your ride details with a friend if traveling late.
- Ask the driver to follow main roads if you feel unsure.
Most Melbourne taxi drivers are friendly and professional, but it’s always smart to stay alert.
Advantages of Booking in Advance
While hailing a cab on the street is quick, booking in advance has its own benefits:
- Guaranteed availability – especially during peak hours or bad weather.
- Peace of mind – you’ll know when your taxi will arrive.
- Better planning – great for business meetings, events, or airport transfers.
What If You Lose an Item in a Taxi?
Losing a phone, wallet, or bag can be stressful. But don’t worry—most taxi companies in Melbourne have a Lost & Found department.
Steps:
- Note down the taxi number or driver’s name.
- Contact the company immediately.
- Give details of your lost item and trip time.
- If found, you can collect it or ask for delivery (may cost extra).
A Final Word – Try 13 Silver Taxi for Reliable Service
If you’re looking for a simple, reliable, and professional taxi service in Melbourne, 13 Silver Taxi is a great choice. They offer easy phone and online booking, clean vehicles, courteous drivers, and quick response times. Whether it’s an airport ride, a family outing, or a regular city trip, 13 Silver Taxi ensures you travel comfortably and safely.
You can call them directly or book online through their website. It’s a hassle-free way to move around the beautiful city of Melbourne.
Conclusion
Booking a taxi in Melbourne doesn’t have to be confusing. With so many options like phone booking, apps, online services, and street hailing, you’ll always find a ride when you need one. Remember to stay safe, check the fare, and enjoy the journey.
