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Melbourne, Victoria to Port Douglas, Queensland from AU$131: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Port Douglas, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Port Douglas: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$131 - Fly, busBest price
2387 kmDistance
8h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Port Douglas 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
Bus
Average Duration
8h  11m
Estimated price
AU$131-436
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2387 km
Duration: 8h 11m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Train
Bus
Average Duration
48h  6m
Estimated price
AU$240-4382
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
48h  6m
Estimated price
AU$240-4382
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
51h  15m
Estimated price
AU$253-488
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
57h  17m
Estimated price
AU$335-672
Company
Driver
Drive
Average Duration
34h  22m
Estimated price
AU$360-1310
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Port Douglas

Traveling from Melbourne, with its vibrant urban culture, to Port Douglas, where tropical scenery meets laid-back beach life, offers an opportunity to transition from city excitement to serene relaxation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Port Douglas

Port Douglas boasts charming neighborhoods, each with its own allure.

Macrossan Street
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Close to the beach and the marina.
Four Mile Beach
• Renowned for its stunning sandy coastline.
• Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Mossman Gorge
• Gateway to the Daintree Rainforest.
• Offers scenic walking trails and Aboriginal culture.

Best Times To Visit Port Douglas's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in Port Douglas.

Great Barrier Reef
Morning trips usually have fewer tourists and clearer waters.
Daintree Rainforest
Weekdays in the early morning offer a quieter, more immersive experience.
Four Mile Beach
Visit during sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds.

Port Douglas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Port Douglas enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, meaning you can expect beach days and outdoor activities no matter when you visit; however, the dry season from May to October is ideal for avoiding rain and fully enjoying the natural beauty.

Dining Recommendation in Port Douglas

At Caribbean Markets, be sure to try the fresh seafood curry, which showcases the vibrant flavors of local produce and spices, offering a distinct taste experience compared to Melbourne’s urban food scene; the relaxed atmosphere, often accompanied by live music and stunning views, enhances the enjoyment of each bite.

Melbourne - Port Douglas operators

Explore transport companies operating between Melbourne and Port Douglas, 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 Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
AU$1311-1315

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) via Townsville

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
AU$1316-1317

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) via Brisbane

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
AU$1316-1317
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
AU$1318-1319
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
AU$1311-1310

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) via Brisbane

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
AU$1311-1310
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Sydney Central Railway Station

Average Duration
11h 9m
Estimated price
AU$4360-4362

Train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$4368-4367

Train from Roma Street to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$2400-0
Bus
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
transnorthbus.com.au

Bus from Cairns to Port Douglas

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
AU$2406-2407
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Central Station

Average Duration
11h 35m
Estimated price
AU$2408-4362
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Central Station

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
AU$2409-2401

Bus from Brisbane to Cairns

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
AU$43824-43825
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Other from Albury Station, Coach Bay 1 to Central Station, Forecourt, Coach Bay 1

Average Duration
7h 15m
Estimated price
AU$2408-4360

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Port Douglas 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.

Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight on Jetstar, Virgin Australia, or Qantas, and consider the early morning or late evening flights from Melbourne to avoid potential delays caused by peak traffic at Melbourne Airport.
• Upon arrival at Cairns Airport, be prepared to face a short queue for the taxi rank; the journey to Port Douglas will take about 60-70 minutes and cost approximately AUD 80-100, so have cash or a card ready.
• Once you land at Cairns, look for quick shuttle service info to Port Douglas, such as the Skytrans or Con-X-ion, both of which offer scheduled transport; check their websites in advance to save time: skytrans.com.au and con-x-ion.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Port Douglas.

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The distance between Melbourne and Port Douglas is approximately 2400 kilometers. By air, a direct flight typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, making it the quickest option. If you choose to drive, the journey can take around 28 to 30 hours, depending on traffic and stops, while train travel may take several days due to connections and transfer times. Overall, flying is the most time-efficient way to travel between the two locations.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option from Melbourne to Port Douglas is typically flying, with various budget airlines offering competitive fares. Booking in advance can help secure lower prices, and flights usually take about 3 to 3.5 hours. While driving or taking the train offers scenic routes, they are significantly longer and more expensive when considering fuel and accommodation costs. Therefore, flying remains the best choice for balancing both cost and time efficiency for this journey.
The prices for traveling from Melbourne to Port Douglas can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation and the time of booking. Airfare for a one-way flight typically ranges from AUD 100 to AUD 300, depending on the airline and how far in advance tickets are purchased. If you choose to drive, consider additional costs such as fuel, which can range from AUD 300 to AUD 500 for the entire trip, plus potential accommodation expenses along the way. Taking the train tends to be the most expensive option, often exceeding AUD 500 due to the longer travel time and the need for transfers.
To travel from Melbourne to Port Douglas without using public transportation, you can opt to drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The road trip offers the flexibility to stop and explore various attractions along the way, taking approximately 28 to 30 hours of driving time. Another option is to hire a private driver or book a rideshare service, although this can be quite expensive for such a long distance. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, you might also consider chartering a private jet to Cairns, followed by a short car ride to Port Douglas.
To travel from Melbourne to Port Douglas without a car, the most efficient option is to take a direct flight to Cairns. Once you arrive in Cairns, you can arrange for a shuttle service, taxi, or rideshare to Port Douglas, which is about an hour's drive away. Alternatively, you could consider booking a private transfer that combines both the flight and the ground transportation. For those seeking a scenic route, a combination of air travel and organized tours can also provide a unique experience as you explore the beautiful attractions along the way.
There are no direct flights from Melbourne to Port Douglas as Port Douglas does not have its own airport. Travelers typically fly from Melbourne to Cairns, which offers multiple direct flights throughout the day. From Cairns, you can easily reach Port Douglas by taking a shuttle bus, taxi, or rideshare service, which takes about an hour. While the connection is not direct to Port Douglas itself, the accessible transfer options make it a convenient journey.
The flight time from Melbourne to Cairns is typically around 3 to 3.5 hours. Since there are no direct flights to Port Douglas, travelers need to account for additional travel time to get from Cairns to Port Douglas, which takes about an hour by road. Ticket prices can vary widely depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book, but they generally range from AUD 150 to AUD 400 for a one-way flight. It's advisable to check for deals and plan in advance to find the best fares.
Port Douglas offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from luxury resorts like the Sheraton Grand and the Port Douglas Peninsula Boutique Hotel, which provide stunning views and top-notch amenities. For a more budget-friendly option, there are backpacker hostels and motels available, such as the Port Douglas Grafton Beach Resort. Additionally, vacation rentals and self-contained apartments provide a home-like atmosphere for families and groups looking to explore the area.

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