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Brisbane to Melbourne from $80: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Brisbane, Australia
to
Melbourne, Australia

How to Get from Brisbane to Melbourne: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$80 - Train, FlyBest price
1382.4 kmDistance
4h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Brisbane to Melbourne with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$95-287
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  46m
Estimated price
$80-323
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1382.4 km
Duration: 4h 15m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  59m
Estimated price
$90-326
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$96-389
Company
NSW TrainLink
Train
Train
Average Duration
26h 
Estimated price
$106-249
Company
NSW TrainLink
Train
Average Duration
26h  2m
Estimated price
$106-249
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
30h  20m
Estimated price
$107-286
Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
26h  35m
Estimated price
$121-387
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
18h  29m
Estimated price
$220-330
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Brisbane to Melbourne

The journey from Brisbane to Melbourne offers a striking contrast, with Brisbane boasting a laid-back, sunny vibe while Melbourne captivates with its vibrant arts scene and cooler climate.

Best Neighbourhoods in Melbourne

Melbourne's neighborhoods each offer distinct atmospheres and experiences for visitors.

Fitzroy
• Known for its eclectic art scene.
• Vibrant cafes and boutique shopping options.
Southbank
• Home to the renowned Arts Centre Melbourne.
• Stunning riverside views and promenades.
St Kilda
• Famous for its beach and boardwalk.
• Lively nightlife and outdoor events throughout the year.

Best Times To Visit Melbourne's Attractions

Planning your visits to Melbourne's attractions wisely can enhance your experience.

Federation Square
Visit early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Late afternoon visits provide a serene setting, especially on weekdays.
Melbourne Zoo
Weekday mornings are quieter, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

Melbourne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Melbourne experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons, making it crucial to check temperatures and conditions when planning your visit. Spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant weather, enhancing your travel experience while summer can offer vibrant outdoor activities despite occasional heat.

Dining Recommendation in Melbourne

For a true Melbourne experience, try the slow-cooked lamb shoulder at Attica, where innovative flavors and locally sourced ingredients create a memorable dish that sets it apart from Brisbane's more casual dining scene. The restaurant's intimate atmosphere and attention to detail elevate the culinary journey, showcasing Melbourne's dedication to gastronomic excellence.

Brisbane - Melbourne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Brisbane and Melbourne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
110-470

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
75-430

Plane from Toowoomba Wellcamp (WTB) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
4h 38m
Estimated price
210-600

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
110-450
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
95-420

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
80-440

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
110-460

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
110-460
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
80-410

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
65-400

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
85-390

Plane from Maroochydore (MCY) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
85-390
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
85-400

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
85-460

Plane from Toowoomba Wellcamp (WTB) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
180-550
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
translink.com.au

Train from South Brisbane station, platform 1 to Varsity Lakes station, platform 2

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
5-8

Train from Fortitude Valley station, platform 4 to Landsborough station, platform 1

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
5-8
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
55-90

Train from Central Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 48m
Estimated price
50-160
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
60-90

Train from Central Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 50m
Estimated price
50-160
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
85-200

Bus from Central Station to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
80-190
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
11h 35m
Estimated price
35-65
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
17h 45m
Estimated price
70-100

Brisbane to Melbourne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Brisbane and Melbourne offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne as you cover a distance of 1760.6 km, promising breathtaking scenery along the way. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers can rejoice as the prices for driving from Brisbane to Melbourne range from $220 to $330, offering flexibility to suit different financial plans. 🛣️ Brace yourself for a thrilling 18-hour and 29-minute adventure through the Australian countryside, where each bend in the road unravels new wonders to discover.
Average price
$220 - $330
💰 Depending on your choice of seating and amenities, ticket prices for the Brisbane to Melbourne train range from $106 to $249. Sit back, relax, and witness the changing scenery outside your window as you kick off this memorable 26-hour train journey across states.
Departure Point
Roma Street station
Arrival Point
Southern Cross station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The Queensland Rail and V/Line services, which operate the Brisbane to Melbourne route, both offer catering services. You can enjoy a selection of meals and snacks available for purchase, including local favorites and vegetarian options. Be sure to check the menu on the respective service's website before departure to know what to expect.
• Seating Options: On the Spirit of Queensland, seating options include First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class offers spacious reclining seats with more legroom, complimentary meals, and a quieter environment. Business Class has comfortable seating with a dining carriage, while Economy Class provides reliable seating at a budget-friendly price. Compare offers on the Queensland Rail website at queenslandrailtravel.com.au
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at Southern Cross Station in Melbourne, you can use the left luggage service to store your bags for a few hours if needed. The station also has clean restrooms available, but please note there are no shower facilities. To navigate the station easily, grab a station map from the information desk upon arrival.
🛫 Flying from Brisbane to Melbourne is a convenient and time-efficient travel option. The quickest direct flight between the two cities takes only 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a popular choice for travelers. 💸 The prices for flights between Melbourne and Brisbane can vary, ranging from $95 to $287.
Departure Point
Brisbane Airport
Arrival Point
Melbourne Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with either Virgin Australia, Qantas, Jetstar, or Regional Express, and check their websites for real-time updates on delays or cancellations, as these flights can be impacted by weather conditions during certain seasons: Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Regional Express.
• Upon arrival at Melbourne Airport, navigate to the SkyBus terminal located just outside the arrivals area for a direct and frequent service to the city center, which takes about 30-40 minutes; tickets cost around AUD 19.75 one-way and can be purchased online for convenience: SkyBus Tickets.
• Expect to pay between AUD 55 to AUD 75 for a taxi from Melbourne Airport to the city center, which typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic; make sure to check the taxi fare estimator on the Melbourne Airport website for the latest rates: Melbourne Airport Taxi Info.
🛤️ The adventure begins at Brisbane station, where Greyhound Australia buses depart for Melbourne. Settle in for a comfortable ride, as you make your way towards Southern Cross Coach Terminal in approximately 26 hours and 35 minutes, including transfers. 💰 Ticket prices for this long-haul journey can range from $121 to $387, depending on the class and amenities you prefer.
Departure Point
Brisbane station
Arrival Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Brisbane to Melbourne.

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The distance between Brisbane and Melbourne is 1382.4 km or 1760.0 km by road. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes approximately 26 hours to reach Melbourne from Brisbane. By a combination of train and flight, the travel time is around 6 hours and 58 minutes. By plane alone, it takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes. By car, the travel time from Brisbane to Melbourne is around 18 hours and 29 minutes, and by bus, it takes roughly 27 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Brisbane to Melbourne is by taking a bus via Cabramatta, which takes approximately 27 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $90 to $180. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $95 to $290.
The prices for traveling from Brisbane to Melbourne vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For a train journey, the prices range from $106 to $247. If traveling by bus, prices range from $94 to $180.
To travel from Brisbane to Melbourne without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 1760.6 km. It takes approximately 18 hours and 29 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of the trip can vary, with prices ranging from $220 to $330.
The best way to travel from Brisbane to Melbourne without a car is by taking a train and night train, which takes approximately 26 hours. This option is convenient for those who enjoy scenic train rides and prefer to travel overnight. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes. This option is faster but may be more expensive. Additionally, there is a bus option available which takes approximately 27 hours and 37 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct link between Brisbane and Melbourne. However, it is not a direct journey by train or bus. The train journey takes approximately 26 hours, with transfers at Central Station. The bus journey takes approximately 27 hours and 37 minutes, with transfers at various locations.
The flight between Brisbane and Melbourne typically takes 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travel. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $99 to $289 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Melbourne. With over 1744 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $80 per night, offering a range of choices for every traveler.