1map logoGo to main page

Melbourne, Victoria to Lightning Ridge, New South Wales from AU$49: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Lightning Ridge, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge: 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.

$49 - Night train, busBest price
1196 kmDistance
8h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge 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
Train
Bus
Average Duration
16h  17m
Estimated price
AU$52-159
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
16h  17m
Estimated price
AU$49-164
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1196 km
Duration: 8h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
24h  14m
Estimated price
AU$63-196
Company
Firefly Express
Bus
Average Duration
18h  22m
Estimated price
AU$66-93
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
13h 
Estimated price
AU$154-222
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  43m
Estimated price
AU$197-416
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
14h  58m
Estimated price
AU$252-548
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Lightning Ridge

Your journey from the bustling streets and cultural vibrancy of Melbourne to the rugged charm and rich opal heritage of Lightning Ridge offers a delightful contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge boasts vibrant neighborhoods rich in culture and history.

Town Centre
• Hosts local shops and cafes.
• Closest to major attractions.
Opal Mining Area
• Explore active opal mines.
• Learn about the mining history.
Glen Wills
• Offers stunning natural scenery.
• Great for hiking and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Lightning Ridge's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in Lightning Ridge's top spots.

Big Opal Mine
Visit in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
John Murray Art Gallery
Late afternoon visits provide a quieter atmosphere and beautiful lighting.
Lightning Ridge Miners' Memorial
Aim for weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy solitude.

Lightning Ridge Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lightning Ridge enjoys a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Visiting during spring or autumn allows you to enjoy comfortable temperatures, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Lightning Ridge

Don't miss the chance to try the hearty bush tucker at the local café, where dishes like kangaroo steak or barramundi feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the region's unique flavors. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating provide a stark contrast to the vibrant dining scene in Melbourne, inviting you to savor a truly authentic taste of Australian rural life.

Melbourne - Lightning Ridge operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/

Bus from Cootamundra Station, Coach Bay 2 to Dubbo Station, Coach Bay 1

Average Duration
4h 2m
Estimated price
AU$12-16

Bus from Dubbo Station, Coach Bay 3 to Morilla St Opp Lightning Ridge Post Office

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
AU$13-18

Bus from Gundagai Visitor Information Centre, Sheridan St to Cootamundra Station, Coach Bay 1

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
AU$2.2-4.4
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
http://www.fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Gundagai

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
AU$38-54
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/regional

Train from Southern Cross Station to Cootamundra Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
AU$26-131

Train from Southern Cross Station to Central Station

Average Duration
11h 18m
Estimated price
AU$43-164

Train from Southern Cross Station to Cootamundra Station

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
AU$26-131
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/

Train from Central Station to Dubbo Station

Average Duration
6h 26m
Estimated price
AU$6.6-16
Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Dubbo City Regional Airport

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
AU$240-602
Website
airlinkairlines.com.au

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Walgett Airport

Average Duration
14h 55m
Estimated price
AU$109-656

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Walgett Airport

Average Duration
22h 30m
Estimated price
AU$164-492

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Walgett Airport

Average Duration
25h 40m
Estimated price
AU$219-503
Website
linkairways.com

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Dubbo City Regional Airport

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
AU$208-448

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Dubbo City Regional Airport

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
AU$219-481
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+61 2 6828 1801
Website
131008.com

Other from Walgett Airport to Lightning Ridge

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
AU$131-164

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Melbourne and Lightning Ridge is approximately 978.5 km by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 16 hours and 17 minutes to reach Lightning Ridge from Melbourne by taking a night train and then a bus. Alternatively, it takes about 13 hours to drive from Lightning Ridge to Melbourne by car. Taking a bus from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge takes approximately 18 hours and 22 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge is by bus, with prices ranging from $80 to $110. Although this option takes 18 hours and 22 minutes, it is a more budget-friendly choice. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying and taking a bus is the quickest option, taking only 10 hours and 23 minutes but with costs ranging from $200 to $380.
The prices for a bus ticket from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge range from $82 to $110.
To get from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 1176.4 km. The journey usually takes around 13 hours by car. The cost of this trip by car can range from $140 to $220 depending on various factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Melbourne to Lightning Ridge without a car, your best option is to take a night train followed by a bus. This journey takes approximately 16 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $70 and $190.
Yes, there is a link between Melbourne and Lightning Ridge. However, there is no direct bus service. Instead, you can take a bus from Melbourne to Dubbo, and then transfer to another bus heading to Lightning Ridge. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 18 hours and 22 minutes.
The flight between Melbourne and Lightning Ridge requires a layover and takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but typically ranges from $150 to $300.
There are several hotels available in Lightning Ridge for visitors to stay. Prices for these hotels start at $78 per night. Some popular options include the Lightning Ridge Outback Resort, the Opal Caravan Park, the Bluey Motel, and the Wallangulla Motel.

Trips from Melbourne