- Must visit
National Gallery of Victoria
Australia's oldest and most visited public art museum, known for major international and Australian collections across two city sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Adelaide to Melbourne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
CHF56
Average ticket price on Sep 15
CHF56
Fastest journey on Sep 15
9 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
9 h 50 m
Buses on Sep 15
1
Distance
654 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Adelaide to Melbourne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Adelaide to Melbourne will cost around CHF56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF56.
Fast buses
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 1 buses from Adelaide to Melbourne, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct buses cover the 654 km distance in an average of 9 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 50 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest buses will take 9 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
NFE817:45 PM9h50Adelaide, Cbd6:05 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)CHF561One-way0 transfers
- NFE817:45 PM9h50Adelaide, Cbd6:05 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)CHF561One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Adelaide to Melbourne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Adelaide to Melbourne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF49 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 32m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF49, while a flight costs an average of CHF362.
Distance: 406 miles (654 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF49 Average price Cheapest | CHF362 Average price | CHF91 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
11h 7m Average total duration 10h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 32m Average total duration Fastest 3h 32m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Adelaide to Melbourne is a bus with an average price of CHF49.
This is compared to other travel options from Adelaide to Melbourne:
A bus is CHF313 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Adelaide to Melbourne costing on average CHF362.
The fastest way to travel from Adelaide to Melbourne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 32m.
Other travel options to Melbourne take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Adelaide and Melbourne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Adelaide to Melbourne among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around CHF49 compared to roughly CHF91 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF42. The journey takes 10h 37m versus 8h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Firefly Express, Firefly Express.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Adelaide to Melbourne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Firefly Express | Departure Time 06:35AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF43 |
Operator Firefly Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price CHF50 |
Live departures
Adelaide to Melbourne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Adelaide to Melbourne buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NFE81 | 7:45 PM Adelaide, Cbd | 9h50 | 6:05 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Adelaide to Melbourne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Adelaide to Melbourne
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Adelaide to Melbourne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 10h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF41 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:35, the last at 20:15. The fastest bus covers the 406 miles (654 km) distance in 9h 30m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 406 miles (654 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF41 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 30m |
First bus 6:35 AM |
Last bus 8:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Firefly Express from Adelaide to MelbourneYou can travel by bus between Adelaide to Melbourne with Firefly Express for as low as CHF41. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Firefly Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Firefly Express Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Firefly Express Price
CHF41
Firefly Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Each passenger is entitled to 45kg of luggage, consisting of two suitcases or lockable carry bags of 20kg each, placed in the luggage compartment.
Additional luggage
Extra pieces of luggage are charged at $20 per item, each not exceeding 20kg.
Luggage storage
Luggage is stored in the bus's luggage compartment, with assistance from drivers for loading.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Passengers can bring drinks and snacks; hot foods, hot drinks, and glass bottles are not permitted.
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Firefly buses are equipped with air conditioning, onboard toilets, and reading lamps to ensure passenger comfort.
Bikes
Standard bicycles (max. 25kg) can be carried for an additional fee of $30, subject to space availability.
Pets
Only guide dogs, hearing dogs, and assistance animals with proper accreditation are permitted onboard.
Complete guide to Melbourne
Things to do in Melbourne
Discover the best of Melbourne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Melbourne trip today.
- Must visit
Melbourne Museum
Leading museum of natural history and culture, famous for dinosaur skeletons, Bunjilaka Aboriginal Centre, and family-friendly exhibits.
- Recommended
ACMI
Interactive museum focused on screen culture, video games, film, television, and digital innovation in the heart of Federation Square.
- Must visit
Federation Square
Cultural square anchoring central Melbourne, home to major institutions, public events, and one of the city's best-known meeting places.
- Must visit
Southbank Promenade
Historic riverside promenade lined with arts venues, public spaces, and skyline views, ideal for an easy central city walk.
- Must visit
Hosier Lane
Lively laneway famous for ever-changing street art, making it a classic stop for photos and a quick taste of Melbourne's creative side.
- Vegetarian
Smashed Avocado On Toast
A Melbourne cafe staple of toasted sourdough topped with seasoned smashed avocado. It reflects the city's influential brunch culture and produce-driven dining.
- Vegetarian
Croissant
A crisp, buttery croissant prized in Melbourne's French-inspired bakeries. It is a local breakfast favorite and showcases the city's strong pastry scene.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Flat White
Melbourne is known for expertly textured espresso drinks, especially the flat white. Its coffee culture is central to daily life and local identity.
Maker & Monger
Iconic market deli for large continental sandwiches, cheeses, and cured meats. Casual, busy, and beloved for quality produce and quick lunches.
Attica
Celebrated fine dining restaurant by the Yarra River, known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in a refined contemporary setting.
Pellegrini's Espresso Bar
Historic Italian institution on Lygon Street, famous for generous pasta, steak, and old-school hospitality in a lively classic dining room.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia: stays are a major cost, dining is mid-priced, and public transport is reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- A$100+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Restaurants may round up or leave 5-10% for great service. No tip is expected at cafes; taxis can be rounded up.
FAQs: Bus from Adelaide to Melbourne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Adelaide to Melbourne by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Melbourne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Adelaide to Melbourne can start from as little as CHF41 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Adelaide to Melbourne is CHF49 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Adelaide to Melbourne is 9h 30m to travel the 406 miles (654 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Adelaide to Melbourne leaves at 6:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Adelaide to Melbourne leaves at 8:15 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Adelaide to Melbourne with Firefly Express, Firefly Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Adelaide to Melbourne, you can count on Firefly Express, Firefly Express for the best way to get you to Melbourne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Adelaide and Melbourne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Melbourne from Adelaide is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Adelaide to Melbourne is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Adelaide and Melbourne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne:
- Firefly Express
- Firefly buses are equipped with air conditioning, onboard toilets, and reading lamps to ensure passenger comfort.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne for bus company Firefly Express.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Firefly Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Adelaide to Melbourne:
- Firefly Express
- Each passenger is entitled to 45kg of luggage, consisting of two suitcases or lockable carry bags of 20kg each, placed in the luggage compartment.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Adelaide to Melbourne:
- Firefly Express
- Extra pieces of luggage are charged at $20 per item, each not exceeding 20kg.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne. The following conditions apply:
- Firefly Express
- Only guide dogs, hearing dogs, and assistance animals with proper accreditation are permitted onboard.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne with the following bus company: Firefly Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne with the following bus company: Firefly Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Adelaide to Melbourne with the following bus company: Firefly Express.
Since neither Adelaide nor Melbourne are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Australia and Australia. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Adelaide to Melbourne among Omio's users.
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Travelers generally find using cards more convenient due to widespread acceptance and security, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or remote areas.
In Melbourne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's important to use official transportation services and be vigilant when handling personal belongings, especially in busy tourist hotspots and nightlife districts.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Adelaide to Melbourne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Melbourne and Adelaide
Most popular bus connections to Melbourne
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