Australian Open Season in Melbourne on a Budget in 2027 ?
Enjoying the Australian Open in Melbourne on a budget in 2027 is possible with a little advance planning. Consider Opening Week or an affordable Ground Pass, explore free city attractions, eat at casual CBD restaurants, use public transport, and book accommodation early. Most importantly, plan around the matches you want to see instead of paying extra for every available experience.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
4 min read
In this article
The Australian Open is one of Melbourne’s biggest summer events, bringing world-class tennis, lively fan zones, and a fantastic atmosphere to the city every January. The good news is that you don’t need expensive stadium seats or a luxury hotel to enjoy the excitement.
The Australian Open 2027 runs from 11 to 31 January, with Opening Week from 11–16 January and the main draw from 17–31 January.
Whether you’re a tennis fan, travelling with friends, or visiting Melbourne for the first time, here are practical ways to enjoy the tournament while keeping your spending under control.
1. Choose Opening Week for Lower-Cost Tennis
One of the best budget strategies is to consider Opening Week, when qualifying matches and practice sessions offer a chance to experience the tournament atmosphere.
Official Australian Open ticket information currently lists Opening Week options from A$10, while main-draw Ground Passes are listed from A$49. These are advertised starting prices, not guaranteed prices for every date or session.
To save money:
Compare several dates before choosing your ticket.
Look for qualifying matches and practice sessions rather than prioritising a major final.
Buy through the official Australian Open ticketing channels.
Book early: affordable Ground Pass allocations for the 2027 main draw will be limited, so popular dates may sell out.
2. Enjoy Free Activities Around Melbourne Park
You can enjoy the tournament atmosphere without spending your entire day watching matches from a paid seat. Depending on the 2027 programme and access rules, the precinct may offer entertainment, food stalls, big-screen viewing, and fan activities.
Also plan some free sightseeing around Melbourne:
Federation Square: Enjoy the public spaces and explore the surrounding cultural precinct.
State Library Victoria: Visit the beautiful historic reading rooms and exhibitions.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria: Take a relaxing walk or bring picnic food.
City Circle Tram: Ride Melbourne’s heritage tram loop for a free city sightseeing experience.
Check the official Australian Open website closer to January for confirmed fan-zone activities and access arrangements. Don’t assume every event or entertainment area is free or included with every ticket.
3. Save Money on Food and Drinks
Food and drinks at major sporting events can quickly increase your budget. A little planning can make a big difference.
Budget-friendly options in the CBD include:
Crossways — 147 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia. A casual vegetarian option for a filling meal.
Shanghai Street Little Bourke — 342 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia. A good choice if you enjoy dumplings and Chinese food.
Yummi Go — 309-325 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia. A fast-casual option for Japanese-style meals.
To keep costs down, eat before entering the venue, carry a refillable water bottle if permitted, and check the tournament’s current rules on outside food and drinks. Avoid buying every snack inside the grounds.
4. Use Public Transport Instead of Driving
Melbourne Park is close to the city centre, and public transport is generally more practical than driving during a major tournament.
Use trains and trams to avoid event parking fees.
Check the journey planner before leaving your accommodation.
Walk between nearby CBD attractions when practical.
Check whether any special Australian Open transport arrangements apply in January 2027.
Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD, but do not assume your entire journey to Melbourne Park is free.
5. Book Accommodation Outside the Most Expensive Areas
Accommodation prices can rise during major sporting events. If you are travelling from interstate or overseas, compare accommodation in areas with convenient train or tram connections rather than choosing a hotel directly beside Melbourne Park.
Consider:
Booking well in advance with a clear cancellation policy.
Comparing hostels, budget hotels, and private rooms.
Travelling with friends and sharing accommodation costs.
Staying near a public transport stop rather than paying extra for a central address.
Checking the total price, including cleaning fees and transport costs.
If you live in Melbourne or can stay with friends or family, visiting for one carefully planned day may be much cheaper than staying overnight.
6. Make the Most of One Ticket
If you buy a Ground Pass, plan your day before arriving so you can get the most out of it.
Arrive early and check which matches are scheduled on the outdoor courts.
Prioritise matches or players you most want to see.
Explore the precinct between matches rather than spending extra on separate activities.
Check access rules for arena seating: a Ground Pass does not guarantee entry to every arena.
Keep an eye on the official schedule, because match times and court assignments can change.
7. Try This Low-Cost Australian Open Day Plan
Morning — Explore the CBD
Visit State Library Victoria and enjoy the city on foot before heading to the tennis.
Late morning to afternoon — Watch tennis
Use your pre-booked ticket to watch matches and explore the areas included with your admission.
Early evening — Enjoy an affordable meal
Head back towards the CBD and choose a casual restaurant such as Shanghai Street or Crossways, depending on your food preferences and opening hours.
On a separate day — Enjoy free sightseeing
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the laneways, or discover more of Melbourne without paying for another major attraction.
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