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Melbourne, Victoria to Ballina, New South Wales from $94: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Ballina, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Ballina: 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.

$94 by busBest price
1281 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Ballina 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  20m
Estimated price
$94-319
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1281 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
Firefly Express, Greyhound Australia, Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
25h  5m
Estimated price
$94-364
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$101-347
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
26h  8m
Estimated price
$101-241
Company
Various
Train
Train
Bus
Average Duration
26h  15m
Estimated price
$104-258
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
26h  25m
Estimated price
$144-282
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
16h  44m
Estimated price
$190-290
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Traveling From Melbourne to Ballina

Traveling from Melbourne to Ballina reveals a contrast between the bustling city life of Melbourne and the laid-back coastal charm of Ballina.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ballina

Ballina offers charming neighborhoods that cater to diverse tastes and activities.

Ballina Town Centre
• Vibrant dining and shopping options nearby.
• Close access to scenic rivers and parks.
East Ballina
• Stunning beaches ideal for relaxation.
• Lush coastal paths for scenic walks.
West Ballina
• Family-friendly parks and playgrounds.
• Quaint local shops with a friendly vibe.

Best Times To Visit Ballina's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Ballina.

Ballina’s Big Prawn
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist crowds.
Pat Morton Lookout
Sunset hours provide breathtaking views without the daytime bustle.
Lighthouse Beach
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.

Ballina Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ballina enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate, featuring warm summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, as comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities and beach experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Ballina

For a true taste of Ballina, try the fresh seafood at the famous Ballina RSL Club, where the flavors of the ocean take center stage in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. This experience contrasts with Melbourne's bustling fine dining scene, offering a simpler, heartwarming connection to local ingredients and the coastline.

Melbourne - Ballina operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Ballina (BNK)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
75-380

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
65-400
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Ballina (BNK)

Average Duration
3h 37m
Estimated price
110-450

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
80-440
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Ballina (BNK)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
75-380

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
85-460
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Sydney Central Railway Station

Average Duration
11h 17m
Estimated price
50-160

Train from Central Station to Casino Station

Average Duration
11h 38m
Estimated price
45-75

Train from Central Station to Grafton Station

Average Duration
10h 8m
Estimated price
40-70
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Central Station

Average Duration
11h 35m
Estimated price
35-65
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Central Station

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
80-190

Bus from Central Station to Ballina

Average Duration
12h 30m
Estimated price
75-180
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Ballina

Average Duration
13h 5m
Estimated price
55-80

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Ballina 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 a scenic road trip from Melbourne to Ballina spanning 980 miles, offering breathtaking views of the Australian countryside along the way. 💰 The cost of this adventure varies between $190 to $290, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking an exciting journey through coastal landscapes and charming towns. ⏱️ Allow around 16 hours and 44 minutes for this drive, giving you ample time to explore both familiar and new destinations as you make your way from Victoria to New South Wales.
Average price
$190 - $290
🛫 Flying from Melbourne to Ballina is a convenient option with multiple airlines such as Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas offering direct flights. The quickest route takes just 2 hours, allowing for a swift journey between the two cities. 🏖️ Once you arrive at Ballina Airport, you can expect a travel time of 4 hours and 20 minutes from Melbourne. This means you can quickly transition from the bustling city vibes of Melbourne to the more laid-back atmosphere of Ballina for a relaxing getaway. 💸 Prices for flights between Ballina and Melbourne can range from $94 to $319, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. With a relatively short flight duration and competitive fares, this air route offers a convenient travel choice for those seeking to explore these two vibrant Australian destinations.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Ballina Airport
🌊 The bus route passes through beautiful landscapes and towns, offering glimpses of Australia's diverse scenery. With a total travel time of approximately 25 hours and 5 minutes, passengers can relax and admire the changing views during the trip. 💰 Ticket prices for the Melbourne to Ballina bus range from $94 to $364, catering to different budget preferences. Whether it's for leisure or business, this bus adventure provides an affordable and convenient way to explore the regions between Victoria and New South Wales.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Ballina station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Ballina.

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The distance between Melbourne and Ballina is approximately 797 miles by air. The typical travel time by plane is around 4 hours and 18 minutes. If you prefer to travel by car, the road distance is 980 miles and it takes approximately 16 hours and 44 minutes. Another option is taking a bus, which would have a travel time of around 25 hours and 30 minutes.
The prices of a bus ticket from Melbourne to Ballina vary depending on the type of ticket and the date of travel. Generally, prices range from $93 to $507. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best possible price. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on the specific bus company or any current promotions or discounts.
To get from Melbourne to Ballina without public transportation, you can choose to drive the distance of 980 miles. It will take you approximately 16 hours and 44 minutes by car. The prices for renting a car for this journey can vary between $190 and $290. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop and explore different places along the way.
To travel from Melbourne to Ballina without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 25 hours and 30 minutes and the cost can range from $90 to $550 depending on the bus provider and type of service. There are no direct flights or trains available between the two cities, so the bus is the most convenient mode of transport for this route.
There is no direct link between Melbourne and Ballina by bus. However, there are bus services operated by Greyhound Australia that depart from Melbourne and arrive in Ballina via Sydney. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 25h 30m. Alternatively, there are other modes of transportation such as flying or driving, which may offer faster travel times between these two destinations.
The flight between Melbourne and Ballina typically takes around 2 hours. The prices of flights between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $92 to $327. It is advised to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Ballina. With over 515 hotels to choose from, you have a wide variety of choices. Prices start at $56 per night, so there are options available to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels, you should be able to find a suitable place to stay near Ballina.

Trips from Melbourne