Australian Open 2026

Experience the Grand Slam of the Asia-Pacific with Events Travel at Australian Open 2026 – Australia’s most iconic sporting event.

The Australian Open is more than a tennis tournament; it’s a two-week celebration of world-class sport, gourmet dining, and vibrant entertainment, all within the dynamic atmosphere of Melbourne Park. Year after year, the AO sets the standard for fan experiences, blending elite tennis with unforgettable off-court moments. Savour creations by Australia’s top chefs, enjoy international and local music acts, immerse yourself in interactive games, and explore dynamic brand activations for a truly immersive experience.

In 2025, the AO broke records, welcoming over 1.2 million fans across its 15-day tournament. During the first week, catch the action as seeded players face off against rising stars on main arenas and outer courts—all accessible with a Grounds Pass or reserved arena ticket. By the second week, the excitement peaks with the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals held at the iconic Rod Laver Arena.

Melbourne, Australia’s sporting and cultural capital, provides the perfect backdrop for your AO adventure. Discover the city’s celebrated dining scene, charming laneway cafés, boutique shopping, and lush gardens. Beyond the city, explore Victoria’s stunning attractions, from the breathtaking Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley wineries to the wildlife of Phillip Island. Extend your journey further to explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks, the Gold Coast’s beaches, the rugged beauty of Alice Springs, the Great Barrier Reef, or even the wonders of New Zealand, all accessible through our official Australian Open 2026 packages.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Melbourne for Australia’s summer of tennis at Australian Open 2026.

Glenn Hedley,
Director, Events Travel

Australian Open 2026 schedule of play

The provisional schedule is subject to change at any time. Sessions may include multiple matches across singles, doubles, juniors, and wheelchair events.

Melbourne Park event map

Map displayed is for Australian Open 2024 and will be updated when a new version is available for Australian Open 2026.

Rod Laver Arena seating map

Margaret Court Arena seating map

Melbourne

Melbourne is a dynamic, cosmopolitan city that blends cutting-edge style with a relaxed, carefree spirit. Renowned for its creative arts, world-class dining, stunning galleries, cosy cafés, boutique shops, and spectacular sporting events, the city is brimming with unforgettable experiences.

In the heart of the CBD, discover hidden laneways adorned with vibrant street art, while just to the north, you’ll find bohemian shopping strips and some of the finest Italian cuisine outside of Italy. A short walk or complimentary tram ride from the city centre will take you to the iconic MCG and Melbourne Park, home of the Australian Open. For the intrepid traveller, Melbourne offers endless opportunities: within an hour or two, explore enchanting wineries, majestic national parks, charming alpine towns, and breathtaking coastal drives. With its wealth of attractions and vibrant spirit, Melbourne is the perfect backdrop for your Grand Slam adventure.

Climate

January is mid-summer in Melbourne, bringing average highs of 26ºC and lows of 19ºC, minimal rainfall, and mostly sunny days. On particularly hot days, the roofs of Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena may be closed, offering air-conditioned comfort and ensuring uninterrupted, enjoyable tennis action.

• First Week Packages: If you want to see your favourite players up close, we recommend a first week package. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of Melbourne Park, where both seeded and non-seeded players can be seen on the outer courts and warm-up courts, accessible with a Grounds Pass or reserved tickets for Rod Laver Arena (RLA) or Margaret Court Arena (MCA).
• Second Week Packages: The second week is where the biggest matches take place, and a Rod Laver Arena ticket is a must to catch all the action from singles and doubles finals.
• Day vs. Night Sessions:
  • Day Session tickets (RLA or MCA): Once the session concludes, you can stay in Melbourne Park to enjoy the evening festivities and matches on the outer courts.
  • Night Session tickets: Entry begins after approximately 5:00 pm. If you want to explore Melbourne Park earlier in the day, consider adding a Grounds Pass to your package.
• Ticket Access:
  • Grounds Passes: Access to Melbourne Park, including outer courts and warm-up courts.
  • Reserved Tickets (RLA or MCA): Access to Melbourne Park and a reserved seat in the arena for your chosen session. Most fans opt for Rod Laver Arena tickets, where the biggest matches are held, particularly during second week. During the first week both RLA and MCA have seeded matches and you can create a custom package with our team to enjoy both arenas.
• AO Reserve Hospitality: For an elevated experience or to entertain guests, explore AO Premium Experiences, now called AO Reserve. These hospitality packages include Lower Bowl tickets for Rod Laver Arena, gourmet dining, exclusive venues, and more.
• AO Child Ticket Policy:
  • Ages 0–2: Free entry to Melbourne Park and to main arenas on carers lap with a reserved ticket (no prams or strollers in main arenas).
  • Ages 2–11: Discounted Grounds Passes available on request. Reserved seats at adult prices.
  • Ages 12+: Considered adults for all ticket types.
  • There are plenty of family-friendly activities, including a daycare and movie theatre, ensuring children of all ages are entertained.

Optional services

Personalise and enhance your Australian Open travel experience. Request a quote today.

CATEGORY	SERVICES
Accommodation	- Extra nights at featured event hotels - Other accommodation options
Flights	- Domestic and international flights - Route recommendations
Transport	- Airport transfers - Car rental - Other transport
Sightseeing activities	- Tickets to attractions - Guided experiences
Travel insurance	- Tailored policies with Cover-More and Go Insurance
Extensions	- Complete itineraries - Personalised recommendations

Private Airport Transfers

From A$290 per car return.

Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) has no direct train link to the city, so your transport options are by car or bus:

• SkyBus is a popular choice, offering an express service to Southern Cross Station. However, from there, you’ll need to take a train, tram (within the free tram zone), or a taxi to reach your hotel.
• Taxis and rideshare services are readily available, but the taxi rank can be busy during peak times, and rideshare pick-ups aren’t always seamless.
• Private airport transfers offer a hassle-free experience, with a professional driver meeting you on arrival and taking you directly to your hotel. This option is ideal for discerning travellers looking for convenience and comfort. Pricing starts from A$290 per car return.

Water Transfers to Melbourne Park

A$15 per adult one way / A$25 per adult return (multi-day passes available)

The Yarra River winds through the heart of Melbourne, passing Docklands, the CBD, Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Melbourne Park. Along the river, Melbourne Water Taxis offer a range of services, including sightseeing cruises, GoBoat hire, and water transfers.

For those heading to the Australian Open, a water transfer from Southbank to Melbourne Park is a fun and scenic way to arrive. The journey takes just 10–15 minutes, offering stunning city views as you float along. Once you arrive, it’s only a short walk to the southern entrance of Melbourne Park.

Pricing starts from A$15 per adult, with child fares and multi-day passes available.

Activities, sightseeing, and extras

Melbourne is a city of hidden gems, world-class coffee, and sporting heritage. Whether you’re wandering through its famous laneways, sipping on some of the best coffee in the world, standing on the iconic MCG pitch, or indulging in the Yarra Valley’s renowned food and wine, there’s something unforgettable at every turn. Where will your Melbourne adventure take you first?

Currency

The default currency for this event is Australian Dollars (AUD). Payments can also be made in USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD.

Payment requirements

Super Early Bird and Early Bird (bookings made prior to 31 July 2025)

A deposit of 25% is due to confirm your booking, plus any ticket upgrades and extras*.

The balance of 75% is due by 20 September 2025^.

Regular period (bookings made after 31 July 2025)

A deposit of 50% is due to confirm your booking, plus any ticket upgrades and extras*.

The balance of 50% is due by 20 September 2025^.

*If your booking includes extra services, alternative payment terms may apply. Specific details will be outlined during the quoting process. For instance, independent flights typically require immediate full payment to confirm, whereas car rentals generally require payment upon vehicle pickup.
^Bookings made after the balance due date require full payment upfront, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

How to make payment

Your invoice will include instructions for making payment via direct bank transfer (EFT) or secure online credit/debit card payment. Each invoice contains a convenient “Pay Now” link directing you to a secure payment portal, making transactions quick and straightforward.

How to pay in other currencies and fees

Invoices can be paid in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD. If you prefer a currency other than the default currency, please contact our team to request an updated invoice. The invoice total will be converted at the best available mid-market exchange rate, and updated payment instructions will be provided.

Payments in AUD:

• Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees (including SWIFT or bank charges).
• Credit Card Payments:
  • Visa or Mastercard: 1.70% merchant fee
  • American Express: 1.98% merchant fee

Payments in USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD:

• Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees (including SWIFT or bank charges).
• Credit Card Payments:
  • Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Google Pay, Apple Pay: 1.98% merchant fee

Currency conversions:

Invoices must be paid in the currency specified on your invoice. If your invoice has not yet been issued in your preferred currency, please contact our office.

Approximately 30 days prior to the balance due date, invoices will be converted to your preferred currency using the best available mid-market exchange rate at that time and reissued. After reissue, we reserve the right to amend the payable amount at any time (without prior notice) to reflect any fluctuations in exchange rates between the reissue date and the payment due date.

Recommendation: To secure the exchange rate indicated on your reissued invoice and avoid potential increases, please make your payment promptly upon receipt.

Events Travel accepts no liability for additional fees charged by your bank or credit card issuer during the payment process.

Summary of important terms and conditions

Below is a summary of key terms and conditions. For the full terms, please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions. A PDF copy will be provided upon booking or can be downloaded at any time.

• Pricing and payments:
  • Prices are listed per person in AUD unless otherwise indicated.
  • Invoices can be paid in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD upon request.
  • All payments are non-refundable in case of cancellation. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking.
• Travel insurance:
  • Policies are available through Cover-More and Go Insurance.
  • Australian residents receive a 10% discount on annual policies.
  • Inbound policies are available for international travellers visiting Australia.
• Booking changes and cancellations:
  • Amendments may incur fees per change, plus applicable supplier fees (e.g., airline fees and fare differences).
  • Full cancellation policies apply, and no refunds or credits are provided for unused services.
• Accreditations:
  • Events Travel is accredited by IATA, ATAS, and ATIA and is a member of ASTA and IAGTO.
• Imagery disclaimer:
  • Images on our website and marketing materials are for illustrative purposes only and may not accurately reflect your travel experience. All images are used as a comparative representation only.
• Content accuracy:
  • Content, including prices and availability, was accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.
• Payment fees:
  • Events Travel cannot be held liable for, or incur any costs associated with, fees charged by your bank or credit card issuer when making payments.
• Official position:
  • Events Travel has been an Official Travel Agent for Tennis Australia and the Australian Open since 1997 and has proudly helped fans experience the event since 1994.