Let’s talk about how you’re getting from your bed to your 9am without fully losing your will to live. Whether you’re based at La Trobe Bundoora, battling the peak-hour chaos at the City Campus, or enjoying regional calm at LTU Bendigo, knowing how to move around (quickly and affordably) is half the battle of surviving uni life.
Spoiler: Melbourne’s public transport isn’t perfect — but it’s way better than being stuck in traffic, paying for parking, or sprinting across campus because you missed the only bus.
For La Trobe Bundoora Students
Trams are your best friend
The Route 86 tram goes straight to La Trobe University Bundoora campus via Plenty Road, which is lined with student-friendly suburbs like Kingsbury, Reservoir, and Preston. It’s regular, fairly reliable, and low-key iconic — unless it’s raining, in which case prepare to stand awkwardly next to a damp stranger for 35 minutes.
Buses cover the gaps
There are multiple bus routes that connect LTU Bundoora to nearby train stations like Macleod and Watsonia. Great if you live a bit off-grid, or if you accidentally moved to a suburb that Google Maps called “up-and-coming.”
Bikes & walking are underrated
Bundoora’s campus is pretty green and bike-friendly. If you live close enough (and own a helmet), cycling can be faster than public transport. Just prepare for Melbourne’s chaotic weather — it will rain, it will shine, sometimes both in one hour.
For City Campus Students (aka Welcome to CBD Life)
Everything is walkable — seriously
If you’re living anywhere near the CBD — Carlton, North Melbourne, Docklands, or even Fitzroy — odds are you can walk to class, grab your oat latte, and still be five minutes early. Win.
Trains, trams, and buses are everywhere
Studying at La Trobe City Campus means being plugged into the full Melbourne transport matrix. You’ve got access to Melbourne Central Station, Flagstaff, Flinders Street, and basically every tram line known to man. The Free Tram Zone? Also a thing. Use it. Abuse it.
Apps are essential
Download PTV (Public Transport Victoria) or use Google Maps religiously — especially during those dreaded “planned works” weekends when trams mysteriously vanish.
For Bendigo Campus Students (Peaceful, But You’ll Need a Plan)
Buses get the job done
Bendigo’s not bursting with transport, but there are solid bus routes connecting Kennington, Flora Hill, and Strathdale to the La Trobe Bendigo campus. Check timetables, though — they don’t run every five minutes like in the city.
Driving might be your move
If you’ve got a license (and a car that actually starts), driving to class in Bendigo makes sense — there's more parking, less traffic, and zero stress. Just don’t forget to budget for fuel (and random Macca’s detours).
Cycling is actually a vibe
The roads are less chaotic than Melbourne, and the hills are manageable. Plus, you’ll arrive with that “I’ve already won the day” energy before even sitting down for your lecture.
Connectivity Tips (Because Missing the Bus Sucks)
Get a Myki card – Your key to trams, buses, and trains across Melbourne. Tap on/off like a local and top up before you’re broke.
Off-peak = less chaos – Travelling before 7am or after 9:30am means less crowding and cheaper fares. Worth it if you’re an early bird (or just want a seat).
Join carpool groups or student rideshare chats – Saves money, the environment, and your sanity. Plus, you might just find a carpool buddy who doesn’t play TikTok at full volume.
Bottom line? Wherever you’re living — from suburban chill zones near LTU Bundoora to inner-city hustle near the City Campus, or the scenic streets of Bendigo — there’s a way to get to class that won’t ruin your day. And with House of Students helping you find accommodation that’s actually well-connected, you won’t be living in a public transport dead zone.