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Canberra to Ballarat

from $15: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Canberra to Ballarat 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.

Bus, Train
10h  8m
Cheapest
$15-190
Bus
12h 
$87-99
Train
12h  35m
$50-180
Drive
7h  48m
Fastest
$95-140
route mapOpen full-size map
Distance: 754 km
Duration: 4h 53m
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Canberra to Ballarat

The journey from Canberra to Ballarat takes you from Australia’s political hub to a vibrant city steeped in gold rush history, offering you diverse landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ballarat

Ballarat features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and attractions.

Sovereign Hill
• Experience interactive gold rush history exhibits.
• Discover vintage shops and artisan markets.
Lake Wendouree
• Enjoy scenic walking paths and picnic spots.
• Great for birdwatching and paddle boating.
Ballarat Central
• Explore heritage architecture and local boutiques.
• Visit restaurants with a vibrant food scene.

Best Times To Visit Ballarat's Attractions

Visiting Ballarat's attractions at the right time can enhance your experience significantly.

Sovereign Hill
Mornings during weekdays are quieter, perfect for exploring without the crowds.
Ballarat Wildlife Park
Visit in the early afternoon for feeding sessions and fewer visitors.
Lake Wendouree
Early mornings offer peaceful walks and stunning sunrise views over the water.

Ballarat Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ballarat experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by cool winters and mild summers, making it an enjoyable destination year-round. Late spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting, as the pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Ballarat

For a memorable culinary experience, try the house-made pasta at Underbar, where creativity and local ingredients come together in a cozy, intimate setting. This dining option contrasts with Canberra's more polished eateries, offering you a chance to savor authentic flavors in a relaxed atmosphere.

How to Get from Canberra to Ballarat: 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.

by busBest price
754 kmDistance
4h 53m Fastest

Canberra - Ballarat operators

Explore transport companies operating between Canberra and Ballarat, with prices starting at $15. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
AU$736-737
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
AU$738-739
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
AU$731-737
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
AU$2220-2221
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Canberra to Albury

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
AU$155-738
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from Jolimont Centre/Northbourne Ave to Albury

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
AU$157-158
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Canberra Station to Goulburn Station

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
AU$150-151

Train from Goulburn Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
8h 17m
Estimated price
AU$22220-150
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Train from Southern Cross to Ballarat

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
AU$2222-2223
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Albury Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
AU$2226-2227

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Canberra to Ballarat.

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The cheapest way to travel from Canberra to Ballarat is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, with tickets typically costing between $45 to $90. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Canberra to Ballarat is by taking a flight from Canberra Airport to Melbourne Airport, and then a train from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Ballarat Station. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and the train journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Overall, the journey can take around 4 hours and 52 minutes.
The distance between Canberra and Ballarat is 539 kilometers. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is approximately 755 kilometers. Alternatively, you have the option to take a flight from Canberra to Melbourne, which is the closest airport to Ballarat, and then travel the remaining distance by car or public transport.
The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Canberra to Ballarat without a car is by taking a bus and train. You can catch a bus from Canberra to Melbourne, which takes approximately 7 hours and costs around $45-$90. From Melbourne, you can then take a train to Ballarat, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs around $15-$130. Overall, the journey takes around 10 hours and 8 minutes.
To travel from Canberra to Ballarat the most affordable way is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes and costs around $45 to $90. However, if you prefer a faster option, you can also consider taking a flight, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Canberra Airport offers flights to Melbourne, and from there, you can either rent a car or take another transport mode to reach Ballarat, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive away.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Ballarat. There are 137+ hotels in the area to choose from, with prices starting at $60 per night.
Yes, you can drive from Canberra to Ballarat. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 755 km. It usually takes around 7 hours and 48 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic conditions and your driving speed.
No, there is no direct bus between Canberra and Ballarat. However, you can catch a bus from Jolimont Centre/Northbourne Ave in Canberra to Tarcutta, and then transfer to another bus that goes to Southern Cross Coach Terminal/Spencer St in Melbourne. From there, you can take a train or another bus to Ballarat. The entire journey, including transfers, takes approximately 11 hours and 38 minutes.
You can catch the Canberra to Ballarat bus from the Jolimont Centre/Northbourne Ave station in Canberra. V/Line operates the bus service between these two cities.
The Canberra to Ballarat bus services, operated by V/Line, arrive at Ballarat station. Ballarat station is located in the heart of Ballarat, making it a convenient location for travelers.
There are several airlines that fly between Canberra and Ballarat. Jetstar, Regional Express, Virgin Australia, and Qantas all offer flights from Canberra Airport to Melbourne Airport. From Melbourne Airport, you can then take a bus or train to Ballarat.
The fastest way to travel from Canberra to Ballarat is by taking a flight. Canberra has direct flights to Melbourne, which is the closest airport to Ballarat. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, and is offered by airlines such as Jetstar, Regional Express, Virgin Australia, and Qantas. From Melbourne Airport, you can then take a bus, train, or hire a car to reach Ballarat.
The flight from Canberra to Ballarat is a domestic flight that typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The quickest and most convenient option is to take a direct flight from Canberra Airport to Melbourne Airport. Upon arrival at Melbourne Airport, you can then take a bus or train to Ballarat, which is located approximately 115 kilometers northwest of Melbourne.
Trains from Canberra to Ballarat arrive at Ballarat station. The train journey is operated by V/Line, offering a convenient option for travelers. Ballarat station is centrally located in the heart of the city, making it easy to access various attractions and accommodations upon arrival.
No, there is no direct train between Canberra and Ballarat. However, there are train services available with transfers at Goulburn Station and Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. The journey time including transfers is approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes.
To catch the train from Canberra to Ballarat you will need to go to Canberra Station. The train service is operated by NSW TrainLink.
The cost of a train ticket from Canberra to Ballarat ranges from $56 to $165.
The cost of a bus ticket from Canberra to Ballarat ranges from $46 to $88.
The cost of driving from Canberra to Ballarat can range from $95 to $140, depending on factors such as vehicle type, fuel consumption, and toll fees.