1map logoGo to main page

Townsville, Queensland to Cooktown, Queensland from $68: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Townsville, Australia
to
Cooktown, Australia

How to Get from Townsville to Cooktown: 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.

$68 - Train, BusBest price
655 kmDistance
8h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Townsville to Cooktown 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
Bus
Average Duration
11h  25m
Estimated price
$77-108
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  3m
Estimated price
$68-890
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 655 km
Duration: 8h 3m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  3m
Estimated price
$80-120
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
11h  34m
Estimated price
$86-146
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  6m
Estimated price
$155-770

Traveling From Townsville to Cooktown

The journey from Townsville to Cooktown offers a remarkable contrast between the bustling coastal city life and the serene, remote charm of the historical town nestled in lush landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cooktown

Cooktown's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Historic Cooktown
• Home to the iconic Cooktown Botanic Gardens.
• Rich in Aboriginal and European history.
Grassy Hill
• Stunning views of Cooktown and surrounding landscapes.
• Ideal spot for sunrise and sunset photos.
Endeavour River
• Offers tranquil riverside walking paths.
• Great for fishing and wildlife spotting.

Best Times To Visit Cooktown's Attractions

Maximize your Cooktown experience by visiting at the right times.

Cooktown Botanic Gardens
Visit early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Grassy Hill Lookout
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views without the daytime crowds.
Cape Tribulation
Weekdays in the dry season provide a quieter, more serene experience.

Cooktown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cooktown enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination. The dry season from May to October offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while the wet season can bring heavier rainfall, affecting travel plans.

Dining Recommendation in Cooktown

A visit to Cooktown isn't complete without trying the Barramundi, often grilled to perfection and served with fresh local herbs at the historic restaurant, The Sovereign Resort. Unlike Townsville's more urban dining scene, here you'll find a laid-back atmosphere and dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of fresh, local ingredients.

Townsville - Cooktown operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Townsville to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
AU$1081-1082
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
https://www.transnorthbus.com.tnbc.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Cooktown

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
AU$1082-1083
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Townsville to Cairns

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
AU$776-1084
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Townsville to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
12h 3m
Estimated price
AU$68-890
Plane
Website
http://qantas.com

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-773
Website
http://rex.com.au

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
AU$774-800

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

Traveling between Townsville and Cooktown 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 Townsville to Cooktown, spanning 407 miles of diverse landscapes and scenic routes. ⛰️ Prepare for an 8-hour adventure through Queensland's tropical wonders, from lush rainforests to charming coastal towns along the way. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of travel costs with prices ranging from $80 to $120 for the journey, offering a budget-friendly option for exploring the beauty of the Australian coast by car.
Average price
$80 - $120
🛫 Embark on a quick and convenient journey from Townsville to Cooktown by taking a direct flight from Townsville Airport to Cairns Airport. This approximately 55-minute flight is efficiently operated by Regional Express and Qantas, offering a comfortable and reliable travel experience.
Departure Point
Townsville Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
🌴 The bus service, operated by Premier Motor Service, is a convenient way to travel between Townsville and Cooktown. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes. 💰 Bus tickets for the Townsville to Cooktown route range from $77 to $108. Travelers can enjoy the picturesque views and comfortable ride as they make their way to Cooktown station.
Departure Point
Townsville station
Arrival Point
Cooktown station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Townsville to Cooktown.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Townsville and Cooktown is approximately 283 miles. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, with a typical travel time of 3 hours and 29 minutes. If traveling by land, it takes approximately 8 hours and 3 minutes by car and 11 hours and 40 minutes by bus. The train and bus combination is the longest option, taking 12 hours and 18 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Townsville to Cooktown is by bus, with prices ranging from $60 to $110. Although it takes 11 hours and 40 minutes, it offers a relatively affordable option for budget travelers. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach Cooktown is by flying, taking only 3 hours and 29 minutes. However, the cost is higher, ranging from $110 to $290. Depending on your budget and time constraints, you can choose between the convenience of flying or the affordability of taking a bus.
The prices for a bus ticket between Cooktown and Townsville range from $61 to $107. The exact price will depend on the specific bus operator and the date of travel. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best price for your preferred travel dates.
To get from Townsville to Cooktown without using public transportation, you can drive the 407-mile distance. The journey typically takes around 8 hours and 3 minutes by car. The prices for car rentals vary from $80 to $120, so you have flexibility in choosing the option that best suits your budget. Remember to plan for rest stops and refueling along the way to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable road trip.
If you do not have a car, the best way to travel from Townsville to Cooktown is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 40 minutes and usually costs between $60 and $110. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way without the hassle of driving.
No, there is no direct link between Townsville and Cooktown by bus. However, you can travel from Townsville to Cooktown by bus through Cairns, with a journey time of approximately 11 hours and 40 minutes. The bus services are operated by Premier Motor Service and Trans North Bus & Coach.
The flight between Townsville and Cooktown typically takes around 9 hours and 10 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary between $115 and $287 depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most up-to-date prices and schedules.
There are a total of 19+ hotels available in Cooktown offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices for these hotels start at $69 per night, making it affordable for travelers with different budgets. It is recommended to research and compare the available hotels to find the one that suits your needs and preferences while visiting Cooktown.