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Cairns, Queensland to Melbourne, Victoria from $111: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Melbourne, Australia

How to Get from Cairns 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.

$111 - PlaneBest price
2346 kmDistance
5h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns 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
5h  19m
Estimated price
$111-402
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2346 km
Duration: 5h 19m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
51h  3m
Estimated price
$219-4278
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
51h  3m
Estimated price
$219-4278
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
60h  12m
Estimated price
$231-459
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
56h  8m
Estimated price
$248-562
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
33h  25m
Estimated price
$350-550
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cairns to Melbourne

Embarking on the journey from Cairns to Melbourne reveals a stunning shift from tropical landscapes and laid-back beach vibes to vibrant city life and cultural richness.

Best Neighbourhoods in Melbourne

Melbourne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct cultures and experiences.

Fitzroy
• Vibrant street art and bohemian shops abound.
• Trendy cafes and nightlife attract young crowds.
Southbank
• Stunning riverside views and waterfront dining options.
• Home to the renowned Arts Centre and galleries.
St Kilda
• Famous for its beach and lively boardwalk.
• Known for festivals and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Best Times To Visit Melbourne's Attractions

Maximize your Melbourne experience by timing your visits to major attractions thoughtfully.

Federation Square
Visit early weekday mornings to enjoy peace and avoid crowds.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Explore in the late afternoon to experience stunning light and fewer visitors.
Melbourne Zoo
Go on weekdays during school hours for a quieter and more enjoyable experience.

Melbourne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Melbourne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with four distinct seasons that can bring sudden weather changes. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer the most pleasant conditions for exploration, while the city's variable weather can add an element of surprise to your travel plans.

Culinary Adventure in Melbourne

For a distinctive experience, try the famous Melbourne laneway café culture and savor a dish like Moroccan-spiced lamb shank at a hidden gem like Bar Omar, which contrasts sharply with the fresh seafood focus in Cairns. The lively atmosphere, diverse flavor profiles, and use of local ingredients elevate the dining scene in Melbourne, offering a rich and creative culinary journey.

Cairns - Melbourne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns 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 Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 26m
Estimated price
130-600
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
100-500
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
130-550
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
24h 45m
Estimated price
110-4100

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 50m
Estimated price
50-160
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
55-90

Train from Sydney Central Railway Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 48m
Estimated price
50-160
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
120-170

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
17h 45m
Estimated price
70-100

Bus from Central Station to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
80-190
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
85-200
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

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

Traveling between Cairns 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 Cairns to Melbourne spanning 1759 miles of breathtaking Australian landscapes. 🌿🌊 The journey offers a diverse mix of tropical rainforests, coastal scenery, and charming towns along the way. 💰 Budget-friendly travelers can enjoy the trip for as low as $350, with prices ranging up to $550 for added comfort and convenience. 🛣️ Take your time exploring hidden gems and iconic landmarks during the 33 hours and 25 minutes drive, making unforgettable memories along the way.
Average price
$350 - $550
🌿 Enjoy the picturesque views and relax on the comfortable train as you make your way towards Melbourne. The journey may take approximately 2 days and 3 hours, allowing you to unwind and take in the sights along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the Cairns to Melbourne train range from $219 to $4278, giving you options that fit your budget and travel preferences. Once you arrive at Southern Cross station, you'll be ready to explore the vibrant city of Melbourne.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Southern Cross station
🛫 Flying from Cairns to Melbourne can be a quick and convenient journey, with a direct flight taking just 3 hours and 25 minutes. Airlines such as Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar offer flights between Cairns Airport and Melbourne Airport for travelers to choose from. ✈️ The total flight duration from Cairns to Melbourne is approximately 5 hours and 19 minutes, making it an efficient way to traverse the vast distance between the two cities. Whether for business or leisure, flying allows passengers to save time compared to other modes of transportation. 🏝️🏙️ Flight prices for the Cairns to Melbourne route can range from $111 to $402, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets and travel preferences. With multiple airlines serving this route, travelers can compare fares and schedules to find the best flight for their journey.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Melbourne Airport
🚌 Traveling from Cairns to Melbourne by bus requires a journey of approximately 2 days and 8 hours, involving transfers at transit centers in Brisbane and Central Station. Premier Motor Service operates the Cairns to Melbourne bus departing from Cairns Central Station. 🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Cairns Station to Melbourne offers bus services that arrive at the Southern Cross Coach Terminal in Melbourne. The bus ticket prices for this route can vary between $248 to $562.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Melbourne.

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The distance between Cairns and Melbourne is approximately 1453 miles by plane. By train, it takes approximately 17 hours to reach Melbourne from Cairns. If you choose to fly to Avalon and then take a bus, the journey takes around 9 hours. Driving by car is the longest option, taking approximately 33 hours and 25 minutes. There is no specific information available for traveling from Cairns to Melbourne by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Melbourne is by flying. It takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes and the cost ranges from $100 to $360. Flying is both the cheapest and fastest way to travel between the two cities. By choosing to fly, you can save time and money compared to other modes of transportation such as taking a train or driving.
The prices for traveling from Cairns to Melbourne can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For train travel, the prices range from $217 to $484. If you prefer to travel by bus, the prices can range from $214 to $349. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on date, time, and availability.
To travel from Cairns to Melbourne without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The road distance between the two cities is around 1759 miles, and it takes approximately 33 hours and 25 minutes by car. Keep in mind that the prices for this journey can vary, ranging from $350 to $550.
To travel from Cairns to Melbourne without a car, the best options are by train or by flying. Taking a train and night train will take approximately 2 days and 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $210-$490. Flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of 5 hours and 14 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $100-$360. Alternatively, there is the option of taking a bus via Cabramatta, which takes about 2 days and 8 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $210-$350.
No, there is no direct link between Cairns and Melbourne by train. The journey requires transfers at Brisbane and Central Station, and takes approximately 2 days and 3 hours. Similarly, there is no direct bus from Cairns to Melbourne, with the journey requiring transfers at Brisbane and Sydney and taking around 2 days and 9 hours. However, both train and bus services are available for travelers willing to make these transfers.
The flight between Cairns and Melbourne typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, flight durations may vary depending on factors such as airline, weather conditions, and flight route. As for the cost, prices for flights between Melbourne and Cairns usually range from $104 to $351, depending on factors such as booking time, airline, and class of travel. It is always advisable to check with airlines or travel agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations and prices.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Melbourne. With over 1744 hotels to choose from, there is a range of choices to suit various budgets and preferences. Prices start at $80 per night, providing a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there are plenty of places to stay near Melbourne.

Trips to Melbourne