1map logoGo to main page

Melbourne to Alice Springs from undefined140: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Alice Springs, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Alice Springs: 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.

$140 by busBest price
2272 kmDistance
4h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne 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
4h  26m
Estimated price
236-641
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
33h  20m
Estimated price
140-344
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2272 km
Duration: 4h 26m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  45m
Estimated price
169-385
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
23h  19m
Estimated price
280-2360
Company
Journey Beyond - The Overland, Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Train
Average Duration
38h 
Estimated price
381-849
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Alice Springs

Traveling from Melbourne to Alice Springs presents an exciting contrast between the vibrant urban culture of Melbourne and the stark natural beauty of the Australian outback.

Best Neighbourhoods in Alice Springs

Alice Springs boasts distinct neighborhoods that offer unique experiences for visitors.

Todd Street Mall
• Central shopping area with local arts and crafts.
• Frequent events and markets create a vibrant atmosphere.
Anzac Hill
• Offers stunning panoramic views of Alice Springs.
• Historical significance with a memorial to veterans.
The Gap
• Beautiful natural landscape and cultural heritage sites.
• Great access to walking trails and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Alice Springs's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Alice Springs.

Alice Springs Desert Park
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Olive Pink Botanic Garden
Explore during the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and tranquility.
Anzac Hill
Go at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking landscapes and softer crowds.

Alice Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Alice Springs experiences a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters; the best times to visit are during the cooler months from April to October. Understanding the weather patterns is crucial as conditions can influence outdoor plans and activities.

Dining Recommendation in Alice Springs

Try the bush tucker fare at The Overlanders Steakhouse, where you can savor native ingredients like kangaroo and emu, offering a stark contrast to Melbourne’s sophisticated café scene. The relaxed atmosphere and focus on local flavors provide a unique dining experience that celebrates the rich heritage of the Australian outback.

Melbourne - Alice Springs operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
236-367
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
236-641
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Alice Springs (ASP)

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
641-367
Bus
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
140-401

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
641-1402
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
641-1402
Train
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Southern Cross to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
641-6411
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Alice Springs

Average Duration
24h
Estimated price
6417-6419

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

Traveling between Melbourne 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 epic road trip from Melbourne to Alice Springs, covering a distance of 1411 miles through the heart of the Australian outback. Prepare for a scenic journey that takes approximately 23 hours and 19 minutes of driving time. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options for your road adventure with car rental prices ranging from $280 to $420. Explore the flexibility of a self-drive excursion as you make your way from the bustling city of Melbourne to the captivating landscapes of Alice Springs.
Average price
$280 - $420
🌄 Experience the beauty of the Australian landscape as you travel for approximately 38 hours, including transfers, on this epic train adventure. Operated by Journey Beyond - The Overland, the train services offer a unique opportunity to witness the changing scenery from city to outback. 💸 Prices for the Melbourne to Alice Springs train tickets range from $381 to $849, providing options for various budgets. Whether you're a budget traveler or seeking a luxury experience, this train journey offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore the vastness of Australia on rails.
Departure Point
Southern Cross station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station
🛫 Flying from Melbourne Airport to Alice Springs Airport is a breeze with direct flights taking only 2 hours and 50 minutes. Bonza, Virgin Australia, and Qantas are top carriers offering this route, ensuring a variety of options for travelers. ✈️ The journey to Alice Springs by air typically takes 4 hours and 26 minutes from Melbourne. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a more leisurely travel experience, flights provide a convenient way to reach this iconic Australian outback destination. 💸 Flight prices between Alice Springs and Melbourne can range from $236 to $641, giving travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that suits their budget and travel preferences. With various airlines to choose from, planning your trip from Melbourne to Alice Springs is both straightforward and customizable.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Alice Springs Airport
🚌 For those embarking on a bus journey from Melbourne to Alice Springs it's important to note that there is no direct route available. However, travelers can opt for services departing from Southern Cross Coach Terminal and making a transfer in Adelaide before reaching their final destination in Alice Springs. The total journey, including transfers, typically lasts around 31 hours and 45 minutes. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Alice Springs and Melbourne can range from $140 to $344, depending on factors such as booking time and availability. While the journey may be lengthy, the experience of traveling overland and taking in the vast beauty of Australia's interior can make the trip a memorable and adventurous part of any traveler's itinerary.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Alice Springs station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Melbourne and Alice Springs is approximately 1900.6 km. By car, it takes around 23 hours and 19 minutes to drive from Melbourne to Alice Springs. Alternatively, it takes approximately 38 hours by train, 4 hours and 26 minutes by plane, and 33 hours and 20 minutes by bus to travel between the two cities.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Melbourne to Alice Springs is by bus, which costs $130-$460. Although it takes 33 hours and 45 minutes, this option is cheaper than flying. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking just 4 hours and 26 minutes. While it may be more expensive, costing $230-$600, flying allows you to reach Alice Springs in a significantly shorter amount of time.
The prices for traveling from Melbourne to Alice Springs can vary depending on the mode of transportation. For train travel, the prices range from $369 to $843. Alternatively, taking a bus from Alice Springs to Melbourne can cost anywhere from $129 to $481.
To get from Melbourne to Alice Springs without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance is approximately 2270.8 km, and it takes about 23 hours and 19 minutes to drive. The cost of a car rental for this journey can vary between $280 and $420.
The best way to travel from Melbourne to Alice Springs without a car is by bus, which takes approximately 33 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $120 and $490. Another option is to fly, which takes about 4 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $230 and $600. If you have more time to spare, you can also take the train, which takes 38 hours and costs between $360 and $850.
Yes, there is a direct link between Melbourne and Alice Springs but it involves transfers. The train journey takes approximately 38 hours, with transfers at Adelaide Parklands. The bus journey takes approximately 33 hours and 20 minutes, with transfers at Adelaide.
The flight from Melbourne to Alice Springs typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $234 and $589, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Alice Springs. With over 23 hotels to choose from, visitors have a range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. The prices for these hotels start at $17, offering affordable options for travelers.