1map logoGo to main page

Melbourne, Victoria to Townsville, Queensland from $1021: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Townsville, Australia

How to Get from Melbourne to Townsville: 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.

$1021 - PlaneBest price
2477 kmDistance
4h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne to Townsville 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  33m
Estimated price
$102-375
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  33m
Estimated price
$1021-1022
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2477 km
Duration: 4h 33m

See more options

Company
NSW TrainLink XPT
Train
Train
Average Duration
45h  33m
Estimated price
$196-3448
Company
NSW TrainLink XPT
Train
Average Duration
45h  41m
Estimated price
$196-3448
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
48h  4m
Estimated price
$205-3364
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
48h  3m
Estimated price
$226-727
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
29h  20m
Estimated price
$310-1020
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Townsville

Embark on a journey from the vibrant culture and cool climate of Melbourne to the laid-back, sun-drenched atmosphere of Townsville, where stunning coastal views and rich outdoor adventures await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Townsville

Townsville boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its distinct charm and experiences.

North Ward
• Close to the beach and scenic walks.
• Vibrant café culture and local boutiques.
Magnetic Island
• Ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling.
• Stunning beaches and wildlife encounters.
City Lane
• Trendy dining and nightlife options.
• Home to local art and cultural events.

Best Times To Visit Townsville's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Townsville's attractions.

The Strand
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning sunsets.
Castle Hill
Weekdays offer quiet hiking, while weekends can be busier with locals.
Reef HQ Aquarium
Aim for mid-week visits to enjoy a more relaxed exploration.

Townsville Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Townsville enjoys a tropical climate, featuring warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons, with the best visiting months typically falling from May to October. Understanding the weather patterns can significantly enhance your travel experience, allowing for better planning around outdoor activities and local events.

Dining Recommendation in Townsville

Indulge in the local specialty of barramundi at The Ville Resort-Casino, where the fresh seafood prepared with tropical flavors offers a delightful contrast to Melbourne's diverse culinary scene. The relaxed waterfront atmosphere combined with the focus on using regional ingredients creates a memorable dining experience that showcases the essence of North Queensland.

Melbourne - Townsville operators

Explore transport companies operating between Melbourne and Townsville, 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 Townsville (TSV)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
1027-1028
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Townsville (TSV)

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
3751-3752
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Townsville (TSV)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
3753-3754
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

all-pages.transport_night train from Southern Cross to Sydney Central Railway Station

Average Duration
11h 9m
Estimated price
3755-1027

all-pages.transport_night train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
1960-1961

all-pages.transport_night train from Roma Street to Townsville

Average Duration
Estimated price
1961-1964
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
3755-1027
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Roma Street to Townsville

Average Duration
Estimated price
1961-1964
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
1969-3756
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Central Station

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
34480-1023

Bus from Central Station to Brisbane

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
3753-34482

Bus from Brisbane to Townsville

Average Duration
24h 10m
Estimated price
3759-34483
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Townsville

Average Duration
23h 50m
Estimated price
1021-34484
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from Seymour to Albury

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
34486-34487

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

Traveling between Melbourne and Townsville 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 Townsville, covering a distance of 1539 miles. The journey offers diverse landscapes and hidden gems waiting to be explored along the way. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options ranging from $310 to $460 for the complete trip by car. Plan your route efficiently and make the most out of your travel budget while enjoying the flexibility of driving at your own pace. 🏖️ Arrive in Townsville after approximately 29 hours and 20 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the sun, explore the Great Barrier Reef, and experience the vibrant coastal city's culture and attractions.
Average price
$310 - $460
🚆 Embark on an epic train journey from Melbourne to Townsville, crossing over 45 hours and 33 minutes. While there isn't a direct route, you'll make transfers at Central Station and Roma Street. 💰 Prices for the Melbourne to Townsville train ticket range from $196 to $3448, depending on the class and amenities you choose.
Departure Point
Southern Cross station
Arrival Point
Townsville station
🛫 Traveling from Melbourne to Townsville by plane offers a convenient journey with the quickest direct flight taking just 3 hours and 5 minutes. Airlines such as Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas provide flight options for this route. 🌴 Upon arrival in Townsville Airport after the 4 hour and 33 minute flight, travelers can enjoy the tropical climate and explore the beautiful surroundings of this North Queensland city. Whether for leisure or business, the flight offers a comfortable way to reach Townsville from Melbourne. 💸 The prices for flights between Townsville and Melbourne range from $102 to $375, making it a relatively affordable option for those planning a trip between these two cities in Australia. With multiple airlines to choose from, passengers can find a suitable flight that fits their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Townsville Airport
🚌 Passengers will need to make transfers at various locations like Central Station, King George Square, and Brisbane during the 2 days and 3 hours trip. 🚌 Firefly Express and Greyhound Australia are the main bus operators for this route, with prices ranging from $226 to $727 for a one-way trip.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Townsville station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Townsville.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Melbourne and Townsville is approximately 1294 miles by air and 1539.2 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 45 hours and 33 minutes to reach Townsville from Melbourne. By taking a bus and then a train, the travel time is about 45 hours and 55 minutes. Flying is the quickest option, with a flight from Melbourne to Townsville taking around 4 hours and 28 minutes. Driving from Melbourne to Townsville takes roughly 29 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Melbourne to Townsville is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 28 minutes and costs between $100 and $390. This is the quickest way to reach Townsville from Melbourne. There are also other options like trains and buses, but they take significantly longer travel times compared to flying.
The prices for traveling from Melbourne to Townsville vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, prices can range from $199 to $474. If traveling by bus, prices can range from $193 to $817. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To get from Melbourne to Townsville without using public transportation, you can opt to drive the entire distance. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1539 miles and it takes around 29 hours and 20 minutes to drive from Melbourne to Townsville. The prices for renting a car to make this journey can range from $310 to $460, depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Melbourne to Townsville without a car, the best option is to take a night train and train combination, which takes approximately 45 hours and 33 minutes. This option is relatively more affordable, with prices ranging from $190 to $480. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which is the fastest method, taking around 4 hours and 28 minutes, with prices ranging from $100 to $390. If you prefer a slower and more economical option, you can also take a bus, which takes approximately 2 days and 5 hours, with prices ranging from $190 to $850.
There is no direct link between Melbourne and Townsville by train or bus. However, it is possible to travel between the two cities using a combination of trains and buses. The train journey takes approximately 45 hours and 33 minutes with transfers, while the bus journey takes approximately 2 days and 5 hours with transfers. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of trains and buses before planning your trip.
The flight between Melbourne and Townsville typically takes around 3 hours on a direct flight. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and flight delays. As for the cost, prices for a flight between the two cities can range from $101 to $383, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are many accommodation options near Townsville. There are over 522 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting at $58. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly options or luxurious resorts, there is something for every traveler's taste and budget. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred accommodation.

Trips from Melbourne