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Canberra to Alice Springs from $146: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Canberra, Australia
to
Alice Springs, Australia

How to Get from Canberra to Alice Springs: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$146 by busBest price
1965 kmDistance
6h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Canberra to Alice Springs 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
6h  31m
Estimated price
$316-582
Recommended
Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
40h  5m
Estimated price
$146-418
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1965 km
Duration: 6h 31m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  54m
Estimated price
$194-482
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
7h  49m
Estimated price
$275-638
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
26h  20m
Estimated price
$320-470
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
47h  17m
Estimated price
$391-1033
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
49h  1m
Estimated price
$430-1018
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
58h  10m
Estimated price
$591-3186
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Canberra to Alice Springs

The journey from Canberra to Alice Springs offers a fascinating contrast, with Canberra's urban sophistication and cultural offerings seamlessly giving way to Alice Springs' stunning natural landscapes and rich Indigenous heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Alice Springs

Alice Springs offers diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and appeal.

Todd Street
• Vibrant arts and culture scene.
• Close to cafes and shops.
Desert Springs
• Scenic views of the MacDonnell Ranges.
• Peaceful residential vibe.
Gillen
• Mixed community of locals and visitors.
• Access to local markets and events.

Best Times To Visit Alice Springs's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience in Alice Springs.

Alice Springs Desert Park
Visit in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Anzac Hill
Sunset offers stunning views, with fewer crowds in the evening.
Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum
Weekdays are quieter, allowing more time to explore and learn.

Alice Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Alice Springs features a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it vital for travelers to plan accordingly. The best times to explore are during the cooler months from April to September, as the heat can significantly impact outdoor activities and comfort.

Dining Recommendation in Alice Springs

Don’t miss the chance to try kangaroo steak at the Overlanders Steakhouse, where the bold flavors and local ingredients truly celebrate the unique Australian bush tucker. The rustic ambiance, paired with an authentic outback vibe, sets this dining experience apart from the more contemporary culinary scene in Canberra.

Canberra - Alice Springs operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
(61) 13 22 51
Website
https://www.murrays.com.au

Bus from Canberra to Sydney International Airport

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
30-40
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au

Bus from Canberra to Sydney International Airport

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
30-60

Bus from Canberra to Albury

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
35-75

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
130-330
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info

Train from Canberra Station to Goulburn Station

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
10-19

Train from Canberra Station to Central Station

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
21-40
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
https://journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Alice Springs

Average Duration
26h 30m
Estimated price
310-650
Plane Show flights
Website
https://qantas.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
6h 31m
Estimated price
316-582
Website
https://virginaustralia.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
290-470
Website
https://flybonza.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
130-360

Canberra to Alice Springs: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Canberra and Alice Springs 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 exciting road trip from Canberra to Alice Springs, covering a scenic driving distance of 2578.2 km. 💰 Budget-wise travelers will appreciate the range of options available, with prices to drive from Canberra to Alice Springs typically falling between $320 to $470. 🏜️ Arriving in Alice Springs after approximately 26 hours and 20 minutes of driving, you'll be greeted with the captivating sights of the Red Centre. From exploring Uluru to discovering the rich indigenous culture, your road trip adventure promises unforgettable memories in the heart of the Australian outback.
Average price
$320 - $470
🚂 Embark on an epic train journey from Canberra to Alice Springs! There may not be a direct route, but the adventure includes transfers at Goulburn, Southern Cross, and Adelaide Parklands. 🌏 Covering a distance of 2,510 km, the trip by train takes around 2 days and 1 hour. 💰 Prices for this unforgettable train voyage vary from $430 to $1018. Immerse yourself in the Australian wilderness and experience the unique charm of the iconic Ghan train on your way to Alice Springs.
Departure Point
Canberra Station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station
🛫 Flying from Canberra to Alice Springs involves a journey of approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes, including one stopover. You can choose from airlines such as Bonza, Virgin Australia, and Qantas for this route. 🌵 Despite there not being a direct flight option, the quickest route typically takes under 5 hours. 💸 Prices for a plane ticket between Alice Springs and Canberra range from $316 to $582, providing travelers with flexibility in choosing the best-suited option for their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Canberra Airport
Arrival Point
Alice Springs Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 55m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Virgin Australia or Qantas as they often have partner agreements that allow for better connections and frequent flyer benefits, which can be valuable given the one-stop nature of this route.
• Upon arrival at Alice Springs Airport, follow the signs to the baggage claim area; note that the layout is quite compact, but be prepared for potential delays if your flight arrives during peak times, especially in the tourist season.
• Expect to pay around AUD 15-25 for a taxi from Alice Springs Airport to the city center; it's advisable to book in advance or check out the local shuttle services that can provide a cost-effective alternative for transportation.
🌏 The route from Canberra to Alice Springs spans 2,510 km and involves two transfers in Albury and Adelaide. Expect a total travel time of 40 hours and 5 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Canberra to Alice Springs bus range from $146 to $418.
Departure Point
Canberra station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Canberra to Alice Springs.

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The distance between Canberra and Alice Springs is 1965 km by air, and 2578 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around a day to reach Alice Springs from Canberra. By taking a bus to Sydney and then flying, the travel time is approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes. By plane, it takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes to fly directly from Canberra to Alice Springs.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Canberra to Alice Springs is by bus, with prices ranging from $130 to $550. However, this mode of transportation can be time-consuming, taking approximately 40 hours and 5 minutes to reach Alice Springs. For a more time-efficient journey, flying is the quickest option, with flights taking around 6 hours and 31 minutes and costing between $310 and $600.
The prices for traveling from Canberra to Alice Springs vary depending on the mode of transportation. For train travel, prices range from $417 to $1008. If you choose to take a bus, prices range from $136 to $551.
To travel from Canberra to Alice Springs without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between the two cities is 2578 km, and it takes approximately 26 hours and 20 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for a car rental vary, ranging from $320 to $470.
The best way to travel from Canberra to Alice Springs without a car is by taking a bus, which typically takes about 40 hours and costs between $130 and $550. Another option is to fly, which takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes and costs between $310 and $600. Alternatively, you can also take a train via Melbourne, which takes approximately 2 days and 1 hour and costs between $410 and $1100.
There is no direct train from Canberra to Alice Springs, but there are train services available with transfers at various stations such as Goulburn, Southern Cross, and Adelaide Parklands. The journey by train takes approximately 2 days and 1 hour. Similarly, there is no direct bus from Canberra to Alice Springs, but bus services are available with transfers at Albury and Adelaide, taking approximately 40 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight duration from Canberra to Alice Springs typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, with prices ranging from $315 to $581.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Alice Springs. With over 23 hotels available, travellers have a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $17, making it possible to find affordable options for a comfortable stay in the area. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, Alice Springs has various accommodations to cater to different needs and preferences.

Trips from Canberra