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Melbourne, Victoria to Adelaide, South Australia from $9: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Adelaide, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Adelaide: 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.

$9 by busBest price
409 milesDistance
2h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Adelaide 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
2h  49m
Estimated price
$75-269
Recommended
Company
Firefly Express and V/Line
Bus
Average Duration
10h  15m
Estimated price
$9-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 409 miles
Duration: 2h 49m

See more options

Company
Journey Beyond - The Overland
Train
Average Duration
10h  30m
Estimated price
$70-200
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
8h  4m
Estimated price
$90-140
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Adelaide

The journey from Melbourne to Adelaide takes you from the vibrant cultural scene of Melbourne to the laid-back charm of Adelaide, where you’ll experience a culinary renaissance and serene parklands.

Best Neighbourhoods in Adelaide

Adelaide features charming neighborhoods that cater to diverse tastes and interests.

Glenelg
• Beachfront access with stunning sunsets.
• Vibrant dining and shopping options.
North Adelaide
• Beautiful historic architecture to explore.
• Relaxed, upscale atmosphere with cafes.
Henley Beach
• Laid-back vibe with excellent surf conditions.
• Family-friendly parks and beachfront dining.

Best Times To Visit Adelaide's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Adelaide.

Adelaide Central Market
Visit early on Wednesday or Thursday mornings for a quieter shopping experience.
Victoria Square
Late afternoons during weekdays offer a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Adelaide Zoo
Weekdays during school hours provide a less crowded environment for exploring.

Adelaide Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it pleasant for outdoor activities throughout the year. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when temperatures are comfortable and the city comes alive with vibrant events, ensuring enjoyable travel experiences.

Dining Recommendation for Adelaide

A visit to the Adelaide Central Market is a must, where you can savor a traditional South Australian dish like the famed Coffin Bay oysters, celebrated for their briny sweetness. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, paired with locally sourced ingredients, allows you to experience a more relaxed yet flavorful dining scene, distinct from the sophisticated culinary offerings of Melbourne.

Melbourne - Adelaide operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Adelaide (ADL)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
85-340
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Adelaide (ADL)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
75-500
Website
qatarairways.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Adelaide (ADL)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
80-650
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Adelaide (ADL)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
65-310
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Adelaide (ADL)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
60-310
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
35-60
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal/Spencer St to 85 Franklin St

Average Duration
11h 50m
Estimated price
9-13
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Southern Cross to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
70-200

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Adelaide 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 Melbourne to Adelaide, spanning a picturesque 453 miles through diverse landscapes and charming towns. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way through the heart of Australia. ⛽️ Fuel up for the journey ahead and hit the road with estimated driving time of 8 hours and 4 minutes. With prices ranging from $90 to $140 for the trip, budget-conscious travelers can find affordable options to experience the beauty of the scenic route between these two vibrant cities.
Average price
$90 - $140
🛤️ The scenic journey takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and relaxing ride through the picturesque Australian landscape. Arriving at Adelaide station, travelers can explore the historic city known for its cultural attractions and delicious cuisine. 💰 Ticket prices for the Melbourne to Adelaide train range from $70 to $200, making it an affordable option for those looking to experience the beauty of this cross-country route without the hassle of driving. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights as you make your way from Melbourne to Adelaide by train.
Departure Point
Southern Cross station
Arrival Point
Adelaide station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Melbourne to Adelaide with V/Line or The Overland, you can expect onboard catering services that offer a range of refreshments and meals. Typically, food and drinks can be purchased directly from the dining car, which provides options like coffee, snacks, and meal trays. Don’t forget to check for any dietary options available—pre-ordering meals is also a good idea if you're traveling during busy times.
• The train service for your route offers different seating options, primarily divided into Economy and First Class. In Economy, you will find comfortable seating with adequate legroom and access to onboard amenities. First Class provides larger seats that recline further and include complimentary meals and beverages, making it a more plush experience. Be sure to book in advance for the best seating options and availability.
• There are multiple operators for the train journey from Melbourne to Adelaide, including V/Line (vline.com.au) and The Overland (theoverland.com.au). Make sure to check their websites for schedules, bookings, and up-to-date service information.
🛫 Flying from Melbourne to Adelaide is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with the quickest direct flight taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🌏 With a flight duration of around 2 hours and 49 minutes, passengers can enjoy a relatively short journey between these two vibrant Australian cities at varying price points ranging from $75 to $269.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Adelaide Airport
🚌 Traveling from Melbourne to Adelaide by bus is a convenient option, with direct services departing from Southern Cross Coach Terminal twice daily. The journey typically takes around 10 hours and 15 minutes. 🌏 For a longer but scenic route, you can also consider a bus journey that involves a transfer through Sydney. This route takes approximately 20 hours and 42 mins, covering a distance of 1,114 km with stops in Albury before reaching Adelaide. Greyhound Australia and V/Line Coach are the agencies operating these services. 💰 The prices for bus tickets between Melbourne and Adelaide can vary, ranging from $9 to $60. Whether you prefer a direct trip or a more leisurely journey with transfers, both options offer a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel between these two vibrant Australian cities.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Adelaide station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check the Firefly Express schedule for the most current departure times from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to ensure timely arrival and to accommodate for any possible delays on your travel day. You can access their schedule here.
• During your 10-hour journey, make sure to pack snacks and entertainment, as there are limited rest breaks along the route provided by Firefly Express, and it's a long stretch of travel without major stops.
• Upon arrival at Adelaide Coach Station, familiarize yourself with the layout of the station:** it often gets crowded, so head to the information desk for local transport options and directions, such as the Adelaide Metro trams and buses, to help you navigate your onward journey smoothly. You can view a map of the station and local transport options here.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Adelaide.

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The distance between Melbourne and Adelaide is approximately 409 miles or 453 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is 10 hours and 30 minutes, by plane is 3 hours and 15 minutes, by car is 8 hours and 4 minutes, and by bus is 11 hours and 50 minutes. These times may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Melbourne to Adelaide is by bus. It takes around 12 hours and costs between $11 and $16. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of a flight can range from $60 to $250.
The prices for traveling between Melbourne and Adelaide vary depending on the mode of transportation. The cost of a train ticket ranges from $65 to $200. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket can be anywhere from $9 to $45. These prices may fluctuate depending on the season, availability, and type of service chosen. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Melbourne to Adelaide without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 453 miles. It will take approximately 8 hours and 4 minutes by car. Prices for renting a car for this journey range from $90 to $140. This option allows you the flexibility to stop and explore along the way and enjoy the scenic drive between the two cities.
If you are looking to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. The train journey takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes with ticket prices ranging from $65 to $200. On the other hand, a direct flight from Melbourne to Adelaide only takes 3 hours and 15 minutes, with ticket prices varying from $60 to $250. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus, which takes around 11 hours and 50 minutes and costs between $9 and $45.
Yes, there is a direct link between Melbourne and Adelaide. There is a direct train service operated by Journey Beyond - The Overland, which departs from Southern Cross station in Melbourne and arrives at Adelaide station. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes and operates twice a week on Monday and Friday. Additionally, there is a direct bus service operated by Firefly Express, which departs from Melbourne station and arrives at Adelaide station. The bus service operates twice daily and takes approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes.
The flight duration from Melbourne to Adelaide is typically 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for a flight between Adelaide and Melbourne can vary and range from $63 to $243, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Adelaide with over 755 hotels available. Prices start at $57, providing a range of choices to suit different budgets. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotel types, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly options, ensuring there is something suitable for everyone's needs. It is advised to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Melbourne

Trips to Adelaide