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Perth, Western Australia to Melbourne, Victoria from $160: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Perth, Australia
to
Melbourne, Australia

How to Get from Perth to Melbourne: 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.

$160 - PlaneBest price
2737 kmDistance
5h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Perth to Melbourne 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
5h  17m
Estimated price
$165-486
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$160-490
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2737 km
Duration: 5h 17m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
50h  8m
Estimated price
$406-5107
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
50h  6m
Estimated price
$428-5148
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
35h  45m
Estimated price
$430-650
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
50h  6m
Estimated price
$460-5285
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Perth to Melbourne

The journey from Perth to Melbourne offers a striking contrast, with Perth's sun-soaked beaches and laid-back vibe standing in sharp relief to Melbourne's vibrant arts scene and bustling urban atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Melbourne

Melbourne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Fitzroy
• Trendy cafes and vibrant street art abound.
• Home to eclectic shops and live music venues.
Southbank
• Stunning river views and arts precinct nearby.
• Upscale dining options and cultural attractions.
St Kilda
• Famous for its beach and lively atmosphere.
• Great nightlife, with bars and live entertainment.

Best Times To Visit Melbourne's Attractions

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

Federation Square
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Mornings or late afternoons during spring offer stunning flowers and cooler weather.
Melbourne Zoo
Weekdays in the morning provide a quieter experience with active animals.

Melbourne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Melbourne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by four distinct seasons that can bring varied weather conditions throughout the year. Understanding these patterns can help you plan your trip better, with spring and autumn often offering the most pleasant conditions for exploring the city's many attractions.

Dining Recommendation

Experience Melbourne's vibrant food scene by trying the iconic kangaroo steak at Charcoal Lane, where the focus on native Australian ingredients and contemporary flavors sets it apart from local Perth fare. The lively atmosphere paired with innovative culinary techniques offers a refreshing dining experience that showcases Melbourne's multicultural influences.

Perth - Melbourne operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Perth (PER) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 32m
Estimated price
250-850
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Perth (PER) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
200-750
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Perth (PER) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
3h 33m
Estimated price
200-750
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Perth to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
43h 15m
Estimated price
390-5500
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 35m
Estimated price
70-200
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Train from Bendigo to Southern Cross

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
5-7
Bus
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Adelaide to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
35-60
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from 85 Franklin St to Bendigo Station/Railway Pl

Average Duration
9h 45m
Estimated price
8-12

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

Traveling between Perth and Melbourne 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 Perth to Melbourne covering a distance of 2137 miles. The journey takes around 35 hours and 45 minutes of driving time, offering plenty of breathtaking sights along the way. 💰 The cost of traveling from Perth to Melbourne by car ranges from $430 to $650. Plan your budget accordingly, considering fuel, accommodation, and dining expenses to make the most of your adventure.
Average price
$430 - $650
🌄 Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you traverse through the diverse Australian countryside on a 2-day, 6-hour adventure. The Indian Pacific and The Overland trains operated by Journey Beyond offer a unique and comfortable way to travel between these two vibrant cities. 💰Ticket prices for the Perth to Melbourne train vary depending on the class and amenities chosen, ranging from $460 to $5285. Immerse yourself in the charm of train travel and make unforgettable memories as you journey across the vast continent of Australia.
Departure Point
Perth station
Arrival Point
Southern Cross station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train trip from Perth to Melbourne vary depending on the operator. For example, The Indian Pacific offers a dining car where you can enjoy meals prepared with local produce, as well as a lounge car for refreshments. Be sure to check if you need to pre-book your meals or if a dining service is included in your fare.
• The primary operators for this route are The Indian Pacific and Great Southern Rail. The Indian Pacific offers different seating options, including First Class (which provides larger, more comfortable seats and premium services) and Economy Class (more budget-friendly with standard seating). You can find more details on their respective websites: Indian Pacific - greatsouthernrail.com.au and Great Southern Rail - greatsouthernrail.com.au Make sure to consider the seating class that fits your comfort preferences and budget.
• Upon arriving at Southern Cross Station in Melbourne, you can leave your luggage in a rental locker available on the concourse. The station also has public restrooms, but unfortunately, there are no showers available. To get to the city center quickly, take the SkyBus service, which operates every 10 minutes for a direct route with a travel time of about 20-30 minutes. You can find more information on schedules and booking at skybus.com.au
🛫 Flying from Perth to Melbourne is a convenient and time-saving option with a quick direct flight lasting only 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Departure Point
Perth Airport
Arrival Point
Melbourne Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Jetstar, Virgin Australia, or Qantas, as they often offer competitive pricing and frequent departures between Perth and Melbourne, making flexibility easier.
• Upon arriving at Melbourne Airport (MEL), follow the clear signage to the SkyBus terminal, as it provides the fastest public transport option to the city center, taking about 20 minutes; taxis from the airport to the city typically cost around AUD 60-80.
• For food and drinks, check the airline's in-flight offerings; Virgin Australia offers an excellent selection for purchase, while Jetstar has a more limited menu, so consider packing snacks or checking out the dining options available at Perth Airport before departure.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Perth to Melbourne.

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The distance between Perth and Melbourne is approximately 1701 miles by air and 2136.9 miles by car. The typical travel time by plane is 5 hours and 17 minutes, while by car it takes approximately 35 hours and 45 minutes. There is no direct train route from Perth to Melbourne, so travel time by train and bus combination may vary.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Perth to Melbourne is by flying. It takes approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes and the cost can range from $160 to $550. This is both the quickest and the cheapest way to reach Melbourne from Perth. Other modes of transportation such as trains and buses may take longer and are not as cost-effective compared to flying.
The prices of a train ticket between Perth and Melbourne vary from $444 to $2731. The cost of the train ticket will depend on factors such as the class of travel, the time of booking, and any promotional deals or discounts available. It is advisable to check with the train operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Perth to Melbourne without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 2137 miles, and it takes about 35 hours and 45 minutes to drive from Perth to Melbourne. You can drive your own car or rent one, and the prices for car rentals vary from $430 to $650. This option allows you to have more flexibility and stop along the way to explore different attractions and scenic routes.
To travel from Perth to Melbourne without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 2 days and 6 hours, and the ticket prices range from $440 to $2,800 depending on the type of service and class. It is a scenic route that allows you to enjoy the vast landscapes and scenery of Australia along the way.
There is no direct train link between Perth and Melbourne. However, there are train services operated by Journey Beyond - Indian Pacific that depart from Perth station and arrive at Southern Cross via Adelaide. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 6 hours. It is important to note that this train route may not be the most efficient option for travel between the two cities.
The flight between Perth and Melbourne typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $164 to $508, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It's important to note that these prices are approximate and may be subject to change.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Melbourne. With over 1744+ hotels available, you have a wide range to choose from. Prices start as low as $80, making it possible to find a suitable option for different budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, there is something for everyone in Melbourne.

Trips to Melbourne