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Melbourne, Victoria to Canberra, Australian Capital Territory from $12: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Canberra, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Canberra: 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.

$12 - Train, BusBest price
467.65 kmDistance
3h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Canberra 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  3m
Estimated price
$68-216
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  16m
Estimated price
$12-180
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 467.65 km
Duration: 3h 3m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  5m
Estimated price
$49-58
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
11h  20m
Estimated price
$51-160
Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$60-140
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  54m
Estimated price
$80-120
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Traveling From Melbourne to Canberra

The journey from Melbourne to Canberra offers a striking contrast between Melbourne's vibrant urban life and the serene, carefully planned capital city of Australia.

Best Neighbourhoods in Canberra

Canberra boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe and attractions.

Braddon
• Trendy cafes and boutiques abound.
• Art scenes thrive with local galleries.
Kingston
• Waterfront access enhances leisure activities.
• Historic architecture adds charm.
Manuka
• Upscale shopping and dining options are plentiful.
• Vibrant village feel with community events.

Best Times To Visit Canberra's Attractions

Planning your visit to Canberra’s attractions involves timing for the best experience.

Australian War Memorial
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
National Gallery of Australia
Weekdays are quieter; aim for mid-mornings when most tourists are still arriving.
Parliament House
Best visited during parliamentary recess to fully experience its galleries and tours.

Canberra Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Canberra experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making it essential to plan your visit accordingly. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, as pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Canberra

Try the lamb shoulder at Aubergine, where contemporary culinary techniques meet local ingredients for a flavor profile that reflects Canberra’s pastoral heritage. This cozy restaurant's earthy, intimate atmosphere contrasts sharply with the bustling food scene of Melbourne, allowing for a more focused and personal dining experience.

Melbourne - Canberra operators

Explore transport companies operating between Melbourne and Canberra, 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 Canberra (CBR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
100-330
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Canberra (CBR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
75-290
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Canberra (CBR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
50-330
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Canberra (CBR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
60-220
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Canberra

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
60-140

Bus from Albury to Canberra

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
35-75
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Gundagai

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
38-42
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Albury Station

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
22-110

Train from Southern Cross to Goulburn Station

Average Duration
8h 44m
Estimated price
40-150
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Train from Southern Cross to Albury

Average Duration
3h 36m
Estimated price
5-8
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Goulburn Station to Canberra Station

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
10-19

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Canberra 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 picturesque journey from Melbourne to Canberra, covering a driving distance of 407 miles. Enjoy the scenic landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💰 Indulge in budget-friendly travel as the prices to reach Canberra from Melbourne by car range from $80 to $120. Plan your trip according to your preferences and budget. 🌄 Arrive in Australia's capital city after approximately 6 hours and 54 minutes of driving. Explore Canberra's cultural attractions, national landmarks, and vibrant food scene for a memorable road trip experience.
Average price
$80 - $120
🚆 Traveling from Melbourne to Canberra by train involves a scenic journey with one transfer at Goulburn Station. The total travel time takes approximately 11 hours and 20 minutes. 🚆 Prices for a train ticket between Melbourne and Canberra range from $51 to $160, offering budget-friendly options for those looking to explore the beautiful route between these two cities.
Departure Point
Southern Cross station
Arrival Point
Canberra Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The main operators for the Melbourne to Canberra route are V/Line and NSW TrainLink. V/Line offers economy seating on its trains, while NSW TrainLink provides both Economy and First Class options. First Class includes larger seats with more legroom and complimentary meal service. Check their websites for schedules and ticket purchasing: V/Line (vline.com.au) and NSW TrainLink (transportnsw.info).
• Onboard, you'll find catering services available through a café car on NSW TrainLink services, which offers a selection of snacks, meals, and beverages. V/Line provides a limited service with coffee and snacks available for purchase, so plan accordingly by bringing additional food or beverages if needed for the journey.
• Upon arriving at Canberra Station, be aware that there are limited luggage storage options. However, you can make use of the restrooms and some stations offer basic shower facilities. To get to the city center quickly, take the Action Bus route 1 or 2 from Canberra Station to the city center. Buses run frequently, and travel times are typically around 15-20 minutes. For schedules and more information, visit action.transport.wa.gov.au
🛫 Flying from Melbourne Airport to Canberra Airport is quick and convenient, with direct flights taking only 1 hour and 5 minutes. You can choose from airlines like Jetstar, Regional Express, Virgin Australia, and Qantas for this route. 🛄 The total duration of the flight from Melbourne to Canberra is approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes, offering a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these cities in Australia. 💰 Prices for flights between Melbourne and Canberra can range from $68 to $216, providing a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences for your journey.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Canberra Airport
🚌 Traveling from Melbourne to Canberra by bus is a convenient and affordable option. The direct bus service operated by Greyhound Australia departs from Southern Cross Coach Terminal and arrives at Canberra, taking approximately 8 hours. 🚌 The prices for the Melbourne to Canberra bus ticket range from $60 to $140, offering a cost-effective way to travel between these two vibrant cities. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, taking the bus allows you to experience the scenic route and arrive in Canberra refreshed and ready to explore.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Canberra station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure you arrive early at the Southern Cross Coach Terminal in Melbourne to check in and find your boarding gate, especially since the bus departs only once daily; plan to be there at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid any last-minute rush.
• Take advantage of the scenic views along the Hume Highway during your bus trip by sitting on the right side of the bus for the best vistas of the countryside and rolling hills, making your 8-hour journey more enjoyable.
• Upon arriving at the Canberra station, familiarize yourself with the local transport options available right outside the terminal, including the ACTION bus network, which will help you seamlessly continue your journey to popular destinations like the Australian War Memorial or the National Gallery of Australia; for schedules, visit ACTION Bus.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Canberra.

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The distance between Melbourne and Canberra is 291 miles. By train, it takes approximately 11 hours and 20 minutes to reach Canberra from Melbourne. If you take a combination of train and bus, it will take around 8 hours and 16 minutes. However, the fastest option is by plane, with a travel time of just 3 hours and 3 minutes. If you are traveling from Canberra to Melbourne, it takes approximately 6 hours and 54 minutes by car, and around 8 hours by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Melbourne to Canberra are by bus or by plane. Taking the bus is the cheapest option, with ticket prices ranging from $42 to $48, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 5 minutes. However, if time is a priority, flying would be the quickest way, with a flight duration of 3 hours and 3 minutes, costing between $65 and $230.
The prices for a train ticket between Melbourne and Canberra can range from $52 to $154. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Canberra and Melbourne can range from $60 to $190. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the class of the ticket, the time of travel, and any promotions or discounts available. It is advisable to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Melbourne to Canberra without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 407 miles, which takes around 6 hours and 54 minutes. The cost of traveling by car can vary between $80 to $120, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from Melbourne to Canberra without a car, you have a few options. The fastest way is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and costs between $65 and $230. Another option is to take the bus, which takes around 8 hours and costs between $60 and $190. Lastly, you can take the train, which is the slowest option, taking approximately 11 hours and 20 minutes and costing between $50 and $160.
Yes, there is a link between Melbourne and Canberra. You can travel by train and bus, with a total travel time of 8 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Melbourne to Canberra, which takes approximately 8 hours. There is no direct train from Melbourne to Canberra, but you can take a train from Southern Cross to Goulburn and then transfer to a train to Canberra, with a total travel time of 11 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight between Melbourne and Canberra typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $67 to $225. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change depending on factors such as availability and booking time.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Canberra. With over 424 hotels to choose from, visitors can find options at various price ranges. Prices for accommodations in the area start at $67 and go up from there. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.

Trips from Melbourne