Brisbane to Cairns bus with Premier Motor Service

Thu, Jun 18
+ Add return
Premier Motor Service
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Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
Premier Motor Service
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Brisbane to Cairns

Showing times and prices for Jun 18

Cheapest price

$542

Average price

$598

Fastest journey

1 d 6 h

Average duration

1 d 7 h 36 m

Buses per day

9

Distance

1390 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Brisbane to Cairns is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Brisbane to Cairns will cost around $598 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $542.

Fast buses

Of the 9 buses that leave Brisbane for Cairns on Thu, Jun 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 18 the direct buses cover the 1390 km distance in an average of 1 d 7 h 36 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 6 h .

On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest buses will take 1 d 8 h 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.

  • Greyhound AustraliaGX404 · GX406
    2:00 PM32h40
    Brisbane
    10:40 PMCairns
    $5421One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX404
    12:00 PM32h00
    Brisbane
    8:00 PMCairns
    $5641One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound AustraliaGX404
    2:00 PM30h00
    Brisbane
    8:00 PMCairns
    $5931One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX404
    12:00 PM32h00
    Brisbane
    8:00 PMCairns
    $5991One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX404
    12:00 PM32h00
    Brisbane
    8:00 PMCairns
    $6031One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Brisbane to Cairns

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Brisbane to Cairns among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $70. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $70, and a train costs an average of $3795.

Distance: 863 miles (1390 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Train
Driving

$159

Average price

$131

Average price

Cheapest

$3795

Average price

$242

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

30h 0m

Average total duration

29h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 24m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

25h 50m

Average total duration

25h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

18h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brisbane to Cairns is a flight with an average price of $131 (€107).

This is compared to other travel options from Brisbane to Cairns:

A flight is $28 (€23) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Brisbane to Cairns costing on average $159 (€130).

A flight is $3663 (€2993) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brisbane to Cairns costing on average $3795 (€3100).

The fastest way to travel from Brisbane to Cairns is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 24m.

Other travel options to Cairns take longer:

Train takes on average 25h 20m.

Bus takes on average 29h 30m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brisbane and Cairns including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brisbane to Cairns 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 $159 (€130) compared to roughly $242 (€197) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $83 (€67). The journey takes 29h 30m versus 18h 44m 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 Premier Motor Service.

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.

Brisbane to Cairns Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound Australia
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
35h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$416
Operator
Greyhound Australia
Departure Time
12:00PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
32h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$260
Operator
Premier Motor Service
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
29h30
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$159
Operator
Greyhound Australia
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
32h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$250

Live departures

Brisbane to Cairns bus times

The table below shows live departures for Brisbane to Cairns buses for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound AustraliaGX400 · GX4048:30 AM Brisbane
35h30
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX400 · GX4048:30 AM Brisbane
35h30
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX40412:00 PM Brisbane
32h00
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX40412:00 PM Brisbane
32h00
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX40412:00 PM Brisbane
32h00
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX40412:00 PM Brisbane
32h00
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX402 · GX40412:00 PM Brisbane
32h00
8:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX404 · GX4062:00 PM Brisbane
32h40
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Greyhound AustraliaGX4042:00 PM Brisbane
30h00
8:00 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brisbane to Cairns 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.

Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Brisbane to Cairns

AustraliaAustralia
AustraliaAustralia
Icon of bus

Buses from Brisbane to Cairns run on average 1 times per day, taking around 29h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $159 (€130) but you can travel from only $70 (€57) by flight.

There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 14:00, the last at 14:00. The fastest bus covers the 863 miles (1390 km) distance in 29h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $70 (€57)
Distance
863 miles (1390 km)
Average bus duration
29h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$159 (€130)
Buses per day
1
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
29h 30m
First bus
2:00 PM
Last bus
2:00 PM
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $70 (€57)

Bus providers: Premier Motor Service from Brisbane to CairnsYou can travel by bus between Brisbane to Cairns with Premier Motor Service for as low as $70 (€57). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

Premier Motor Service

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
29h 30m
Cheapest Price
$159 (€130)
Premier Motor Service frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Bus from Brisbane to Cairns

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brisbane to Cairns 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 Cairns, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Brisbane to Cairns can start from as little as $159 (€130) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Brisbane to Cairns is $159 (€130) ; 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 Brisbane to Cairns is 29h 30m to travel the 863 miles (1390 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 Brisbane to Cairns leaves at 2:00 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Brisbane to Cairns leaves at 2:00 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Brisbane to Cairns with Premier Motor Service. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Brisbane to Cairns, you can count on Premier Motor Service for the best way to get you to Cairns. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Brisbane and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cairns from Brisbane is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 29h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brisbane and Cairns including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
No, the bus from Brisbane to Cairns has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
No, luggage for the bus from Brisbane to Cairns needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Brisbane to Cairns.
Since neither Brisbane nor Cairns 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brisbane to Cairns 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 Cairns, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Scams involving overpriced tours or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it’s best to book transportation and excursions through reputable providers. Additionally, when exploring natural attractions, travelers should follow safety guidelines due to wildlife hazards like jellyfish stings in the ocean and crocodile warnings near waterways.
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 Brisbane to Cairns

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for buses from Cairns to Brisbane
Flights from Brisbane to Cairns
HomeBusesBuses in AustraliaBrisbane to Cairns bus

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