Located in the Pacific Ocean, The Islands of Tahiti are a mythical destination. Papeete, on Tahiti, the capital of French Polynesia is filled with idyllic experiences. With a busy port to explore the surrounding islands, visit the Place Vai’ete filled with food carts in the evenings and the large Marché de Papeete market sells local produce, fish and handicrafts. The island is a tropical dream with waterfalls, a bright blue lagoon to swim and snorkel, wander the gardens of hibiscus and birds of paradise and visit the simple villages to learn about island life. Papeete is a beautiful and unforgettable destination.
View our Tahiti travel guide
Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Papeete (PPT)
Reasons to fly with Qantas
Food and drinks on every flight
Enjoy a meal or snack every time you fly with us, as well as a range of refreshments including beer and wine.
Baggage included in every fare
Pack more into your trip with checked and carry-on baggage included in every fare.
Frequent Flyer program
Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn and use Qantas Pointsin Australia and around the world, and earn Status Credits on eligible flights.
Visiting from Melbourne to Papeete
Flight information
Fly Melbourne (MEL) to Tahiti (PPT)
The approximate flight time for flights from Melbourne to Tahiti is 19 hours and 50 minutes.
When to visit
The Islands of Tahiti enjoy a tropical climate that’s perfect year-round for a getaway. The temperatures in French Polynesia are mild and relatively constant, with the average temperature is around 25°C, which is the same in the tranquil waters. There are two main seasons, the wet and the dry. The best time to visit Tahiti is during the dry season that lasts from May to October and has balmy temperatures between 21°C and 27°C. While the rainy season typically lasts from November to April, with tropical showers that last around 30 minutes. No matter what time of year you plan to visit, you’ll experience the warm beach days, mild nights and nice cool breezes.
Arrival information
What is the main airport called?
Faa'a International Airport, also known as Tahiti International Airport (PPT).Opens in a new tab or window It is the international airport of French Polynesia, located in the commune of Faa'a, on the island of Tahiti. It's located 5 km southwest of Papeete.
Arriving in Papeete
The helpful staff at Papeete Airport will greet you when you land and assistmwith your travel needs. Once you collect your bags from the arrivals area, there are various transport options available to get you on your way.
Getting into Papeete from Papeete Airport
Getting into Papeete is easy, with a handy range of transport options to suit your needs. Choose from taxis, bus, ferry, hotel shuttle, private transfer or car hire. There is a bus system and taxi service for transport to your hotel and the ferry terminal. If you are headed to Moorea, there is a ferry service from Tahiti that takes about 30 minutes one way. Rental cars are available in Tahiti, or you can book a hotel shuttle or private transfer for a convenient way to travel.
Getting around Papeete
To get around Papeete and the surrounding towns, the public transit system offers large white motor coaches. A taxi service is also available from your hotel and is best arranged through the hotel concierge. Once in downtown Papeete, the waterfront, restaurants shops are within walking distance. The circle-island bus or 4×4 tours are the ideal way to explore the sights around Tahiti’s coast. Other methods of exploring the island include motorboat and yacht charters, tours, scooter and car hire.
Departure information
Fly from Melbourne
Once you’ve got your tickets from Melbourne, there are a few things you should know to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for your flight.
What is the main airport called?
Melbourne Airport.Opens in a new tab or window Located 20 km (12.5 miles) from the city centre, Melbourne Domestic Airport (MEL), also known as Tullamarine Airport, is the main airport serving the state of Victoria. Qantas operates from two terminals in Melbourne T1 - domestic and T2 - international.
Baggage allowance
Passengers on Qantas flights from Melbourne are allocated checked baggage. If you need more luggage, you can purchase an additional baggage allowance online prior to departure.
Checking in
Ensure you check-in online or via the Qantas App before you arrive at the airport from 24 hours before departure.
Why Qantas
Experience the Qantas difference
Fly with Qantas and enjoy a comfortable journey with familiar smiles waiting to welcome you onboard.
Included baggage
Enjoy peace of mind knowing baggage is included on all Qantas flights. Find out all you need to know about checked baggage.
Food and drinks on every flight
Enjoy a meal or snack every time you fly with us, as well as a range of refreshments including beer and wine+.
Inflight entertainment
Enjoy a range of entertainment on every flight including TV, the latest movies and more+.
Important Information
Disclaimer: ^ You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: ++ Status Credits are earned on eligible Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld® member and oneworld connect® airlines only - see the Airline Earning Tables and Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions for details. Status Credits may not be earned on some fare types and booking classes.
Disclaimer: +Meals, beverages, entertainment and offerings vary between flights and cabins. Alcohol offered during select flight times on select flights.