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Melbourne, Victoria to Brisbane, Queensland from $110: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Brisbane, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Brisbane: 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.

$110 - Train, Bus, Night BusBest price
1383.6 kmDistance
3h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Brisbane 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
3h  59m
Estimated price
$95-288
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  6m
Estimated price
$90-327
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1383.6 km
Duration: 3h 59m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$102-347
Company
NSW TrainLink XPT
Train
Train
Average Duration
26h  21m
Estimated price
$106-248
Company
NSW TrainLink
Train
Average Duration
26h  29m
Estimated price
$106-248
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
32h  53m
Estimated price
$115-164
Company
Firefly Express
Bus
Average Duration
26h  35m
Estimated price
$124-384
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
18h  36m
Estimated price
$220-320

Traveling From Melbourne to Brisbane

Traveling from Melbourne to Brisbane offers a fascinating shift from the cultural vibrancy and cooler climate of Melbourne to the laid-back, sunny lifestyle and warm weather of Brisbane.

Best Neighbourhoods in Brisbane

Brisbane's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and attractions for visitors.

Fortitude Valley
• Bustling nightlife with vibrant bars and clubs.
• Home to unique boutiques and live music venues.
South Bank
• Scenic parklands and walking paths along the river.
• Great dining options with stunning city views.
West End
• Eclectic mix of cafes, shops, and markets.
• Renowned for its diverse cultural events and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Brisbane's Attractions

Timing your visits to Brisbane's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Visit early in the morning for a quiet experience with wildlife.
South Bank Parklands
Weekday afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds and a peaceful stroll.
Queensland Art Gallery
Late mornings during weekdays offer a more relaxed atmosphere for viewing.

Brisbane Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during the cooler months from April to September, when outdoor activities are especially enjoyable and rain is less likely, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Try the Moreton Bay bug, a local seafood delicacy, at Brisbane's Gambaro Restaurant, where the focus is on fresh, vibrant flavors influenced by the region's coastal charm. This dining experience contrasts with Melbourne's diverse culinary scene, offering a laid-back atmosphere and the chance to savor ingredients sourced directly from Queensland's waters.

Melbourne - Brisbane operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne to Brisbane

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
110-470

Plane from Melbourne to Gold Coast

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
75-430

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
110-450

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore via Sydney

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
150-550
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne to Brisbane

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
95-420

Plane from Melbourne to Gold Coast

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
80-440

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
110-460

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore via Sydney

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
110-460
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne to Brisbane

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
80-410

Plane from Melbourne to Gold Coast

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
65-400

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
85-390

Plane from Melbourne to Maroochydore via Sydney

Average Duration
4h 2m
Estimated price
85-390
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Melbourne to Brisbane

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
90-400

Plane from Melbourne to Gold Coast

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
85-460
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 Brisbane

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
85-200
Contact phone
+612 6685 7447
Website
byronbayshuttle.com.au

Bus from Gold Coast Airport to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
30-35
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
18h 35m
Estimated price
70-100
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Sydney Central Railway Station

Average Duration
11h 9m
Estimated price
50-160

Train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
55-90
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Roma Street

Average Duration
26h 29m
Estimated price
100-250
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Train from Southern Cross to Seymour

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
4-7

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Brisbane 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 Brisbane, covering a distance of 1092 miles through diverse landscapes and charming towns. The journey offers a perfect mix of city exploration and rural beauty, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the breathtaking scenery along the way. 🌿 Prepare for an unforgettable adventure with a driving time of approximately 18 hours and 36 minutes, allowing you to soak in the changing views and experience the journey at your own pace. From rolling hills to coastal vistas, each stretch of the drive offers a new perspective and an exciting adventure waiting to be discovered. 💰 When it comes to the cost, prices for the Melbourne to Brisbane road trip can range from $220 to $320, depending on factors such as fuel prices, accommodation choices, and any roadside attractions you choose to explore. With budget-friendly options and higher-end experiences available, there's a travel style to suit every adventurer along this iconic Australian route.
Average price
$220 - $320
🌄 Traveling by train provides a unique opportunity to sit back, relax, and witness the changing scenery as you make your way through different regions of Australia. The total journey, including transfers, takes approximately 26 hours and 21 minutes, offering a comfortable and leisurely way to reach your destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the Melbourne to Brisbane train range from $106 to $248, depending on the class of service and amenities offered onboard. Prepare for a long but enjoyable ride, filled with picturesque views and the excitement of exploring two vibrant Australian cities at your own pace.
Departure Point
Southern Cross station
Arrival Point
Roma Street station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Spirit of Queensland include a catering menu with meals, snacks, and beverages available for purchase. You can enjoy a range of options, including Australian favorites and light snacks, as well as a selection of local wines and beers.
• For the Melbourne to Brisbane route, you have several seating options on the Spirit of Queensland: First Class provides spacious seats with more privacy and complimentary meals. Business Class offers comfortable seating and access to a lounge area. Economy Class features standard seating with the option to reserve specific seats in advance.
• Operators for this route include Queensland Rail (queenslandrailtravel.com.au) and V/Line (vline.com.au). For additional information on schedules or to book tickets, check their respective websites. Upon arrival in Brisbane at Roma Street Station, you can leave your luggage at the station's baggage storage service, and there are also restrooms available. For the fastest way to the city center, take the free City Loop bus (Route 40) from Roma Street Station, which will drop you off at key locations throughout the CBD.
🛫 Flying from Melbourne Airport to Brisbane Airport is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with the quickest direct flight taking just 2 hours and 5 minutes. 🌏 The flight duration from Melbourne to Brisbane is approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes, giving passengers ample time to relax and enjoy the onboard services. Ticket prices for this route typically range from $95 to $288, offering a range of options for different budgets.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Brisbane Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Jetstar or Virgin Australia for competitive pricing and options; they often have special fares, and their websites list real-time availability: jetstar.com and virginaustralia.com
• Upon arriving at Brisbane Airport, follow the signs for the International terminal if you’re headed to the Airtrain; this train is a convenient way to get to the city center, and timetables can be found at airtrain.com.au
• Expect to pay around AUD 40-50 for a taxi from Brisbane Airport to the city center; rideshares like Uber are also available and can sometimes provide cheaper options, so consider using their apps for a quick price check.
🚌 The journey from Melbourne to Brisbane by bus is an extensive one, taking approximately 26 hours and 35 minutes with transfers along the way. 🌏 The route covers a distance of 1,543 km with 2 transfers. The first step involves a bus towards Sydney with a duration of about 11 hours and 40 minutes. 🌞 The final leg of the journey includes a bus towards Northbound taking approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, before arriving at Brisbane Roma St Bus Stop.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Brisbane station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Brisbane.

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The cheapest way to travel from Melbourne to Brisbane is by bus. You can take a bus from Melbourne to Brisbane via Cabramatta, which typically costs between $95 and $190 and takes around 27 hours and 25 minutes. This option allows you to save money on transportation while still reaching your destination.
The fastest way to travel from Melbourne to Brisbane is by plane. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $95 to $290, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is recommended to check for deals and discounts to get the best prices for your flight.
The distance between Melbourne and Brisbane is approximately 859 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is about 1091.9 miles. The driving time can vary depending on the route and traffic conditions. Typically, it takes around 16-18 hours to drive from Melbourne to Brisbane.
The most convenient way to travel from Melbourne to Brisbane without a car is by taking a night train and then a regular train. This journey takes approximately 26 hours and 21 minutes and costs around $100 to $250. The night train offers a comfortable option for long-distance travel, allowing you to rest and arrive in Brisbane refreshed. The regular train that follows will provide scenic views as you journey through different parts of Australia.
The journey from Melbourne to Brisbane takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers. There are several transportation options available, including flights, trains, and buses. Flights are the quickest option, with direct flights available from Melbourne Airport to Brisbane Airport. Trains are also a convenient choice, with the Melbourne to Brisbane train journey taking around 23 hours. Buses are the most affordable option, with travel times ranging from 16 to 30 hours, depending on the route and stops.
The cheapest way to get from Melbourne to Brisbane is by bus via Cabramatta, with tickets costing between $95 and $190. This option takes approximately 27 hours and 25 minutes. If you prefer a faster journey, flying is the best option, taking around 4 hours and 5 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $95 to $290. Another option is to take a train, which costs between $100 and $250 and takes approximately 26 hours and 29 minutes.
There are several accommodation options available near Brisbane. With 861+ hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Brisbane start at $58 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Brisbane.
Yes, you can drive from Melbourne to Brisbane. The driving distance is approximately 1092 miles, and it takes around 18 hours and 36 minutes to complete the journey. However, it is important to consider rest stops, traffic conditions, and potential tolls along the way. Make sure to plan your route accordingly and take necessary breaks to ensure a safe and comfortable drive.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Melbourne and Brisbane. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey involves departing from Melbourne and transferring at Liverpool Station, Stand G and Strathfield Station, Everton Rd, Stand D before arriving in Brisbane. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 27 hours and 25 minutes.
To catch the bus from Melbourne to Brisbane you will need to go to Melbourne station. This is where Firefly Express, the bus operator, operates its services from. Ensure that you check the schedule and arrive at the station with ample time before departure.
The Melbourne to Brisbane bus services, operated by NSW TrainLink, arrive at Brisbane station. Brisbane station is a major transportation hub located in the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. Upon arrival, commuters will find various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and trains, to reach their final destination in Brisbane or explore other parts of Queensland.
To get to Brisbane from the airport, you can take the Airtrain which is the most convenient option. It runs from the Brisbane Airport to the Brisbane CBD and other major destinations. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes and the ticket prices vary depending on the distance traveled. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rideshare service for a quicker but more expensive option. It is advisable to check the timetable and fares in advance for a smooth journey.
Regional Express, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas all offer flights from Melbourne Airport to Brisbane Airport. These airlines provide multiple daily flights, giving travelers a variety of options to choose from. It's recommended to check the individual airlines' websites or use a flight comparison website to find the best deals and schedules for your specific travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from Melbourne to Brisbane is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Melbourne Airport to Brisbane Airport typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Regional Express, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas all provide flights on this route. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. Prices for flights between Brisbane and Melbourne can range from $98 to $286.
The flight from Melbourne to Brisbane typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. This is for a direct flight without any layovers. However, it's important to note that flight durations can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding flight times.
Trains from Melbourne to Brisbane arrive at Brisbane station. The train journey takes approximately 21-24 hours, depending on the specific service. It is worth noting that there may be stops at other stations along the way, so it is advisable to check the train schedule for specific details.
No, there is no direct train between Melbourne and Brisbane. However, there are train services available. The journey involves taking a train from Southern Cross to Central Station, and then transferring to a train that goes to Brisbane. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 26 hours and 21 minutes. It is advisable to check the train schedules and plan accordingly for a comfortable and convenient journey.
To catch the Melbourne to Brisbane train, head to Southern Cross station in Melbourne. This is where the train services operated by NSW TrainLink XPT depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule and purchase your tickets in advance. The journey by train from Melbourne to Brisbane is a comfortable and scenic option for travel between the two cities.
The cost of a flight from Melbourne to Brisbane typically ranges from $98 to $286. However, prices can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, keep in mind that prices may also fluctuate during peak travel seasons.
The cost of a train ticket from Melbourne to Brisbane can range from $109 to $244. The prices can vary depending on the type of ticket, class of service, and any available promotions or discounts. It is recommended to check with the specific train service provider for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Melbourne to Brisbane ranges from $95 to $181. Prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability. It's advisable to book your bus ticket in advance to secure the best and most affordable fares.
The cost to drive from Melbourne to Brisbane ranges from $220 to $320, depending on factors such as the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current fuel prices. This estimate includes fuel costs for a one-way trip, but it does not factor in tolls, accommodations, or other expenses along the way. The total cost may also vary based on individual driving habits and the specific route taken.

Trips from Melbourne

Trips to Brisbane