- Must visit
Gallery of Modern Art
Queensland’s leading modern art museum presents major Australian and international exhibitions in a striking riverside building at South Bank.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cairns to Brisbane
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
- Cheapest price on Nov 01
- $297
- Average ticket price on Nov 01
- $445
- Fastest journey on Nov 01
- 1 d 5 h 20 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 01
- 1 d 10 h 4 m
- Buses on Nov 01
- 5
- Distance
- 1390 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cairns to Brisbane is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairns to Brisbane will cost around $445 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $297.
Fast buses
On Sun, Nov 01, we found 5 buses from Cairns to Brisbane, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Nov 01 the direct buses cover the 1390 km distance in an average of 1 d 10 h 4 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 5 h 20 m .
On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest buses will take 1 d 18 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus7:10 AM 29h20 Cairns 12:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $297 1 One-way 1 transfer
GX458 · GX4503:00 PM 42h00 Cairns 9:00 AM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $467 1 One-way 1 transfer- GX454
7:00 AM 30h00 Cairns 1:00 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $476 1 One-way 0 transfers - GX454 · GX452
7:00 AM 34h30 Cairns 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $489 1 One-way 1 transfer - GX454 · GX452
7:00 AM 34h30 Cairns 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $496 1 One-way 1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus
7:10 AM 29h20 Cairns 12:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $297 1 One-way 1 transfer - GX454
7:00 AM 30h00 Cairns 1:00 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $476 1 One-way 0 transfers - GX454 · GX452
7:00 AM 34h30 Cairns 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $496 1 One-way 1 transfer - GX454 · GX452
7:00 AM 34h30 Cairns 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $489 1 One-way 1 transfer - GX458 · GX450
3:00 PM 42h00 Cairns 9:00 AM Brisbane, Coach Terminal $467 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cairns to Brisbane
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Cairns to Brisbane run on average 4 times per day, taking around 29h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $80 but you can travel from only $72 by flight.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 22:15. The fastest bus covers the 863 miles (1390 km) distance in 28h 25m.
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 $72
Distance 863 miles (1390 km) |
Average bus duration 29h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 28h 25m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $72
Frequently asked questions about your Cairns to Brisbane trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cairns to Brisbane.
Cheap bus tickets from Cairns to Brisbane can start from as little as $80 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cairns to Brisbane is $382 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Cairns to Brisbane leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cairns to Brisbane leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cairns to Brisbane with Greyhound Australia. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Cairns to Brisbane Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 30h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $323 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 30h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $476 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 29h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $135 |
Operator Premier Motor Service | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 29h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $156 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 42h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $221 |
Live departures
Cairns to Brisbane bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cairns to Brisbane buses for tomorrow, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX454 · GX452 | 7:00 AM Cairns | 34h30 | 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal | 1 transfer | |
| GX454 | 7:00 AM Cairns | 30h00 | 1:00 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX454 · GX452 | 7:00 AM Cairns | 34h30 | 5:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:10 AM Cairns | 29h20 | 12:30 PM Brisbane, Coach Terminal | 1 transfer | |
| GX458 · GX450 | 3:00 PM Cairns | 42h00 | 9:00 AM Brisbane, Coach Terminal | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cairns to Brisbane buses with Omio?
Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cairns to Brisbane.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Greyhound Australia tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound Australia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound Australia, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cairns to Brisbane.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound Australia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cairns to Brisbane.
Bus providers: Greyhound Australia, FlixBus from Cairns to BrisbaneYou can travel by bus between Cairns to Brisbane with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for as low as $72. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
28h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$80
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound Australia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Australia Duration
29h 45m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$190
Greyhound Australia frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of checked baggage up to 20kg each and one carry-on up to 8kg.
Additional luggage
Two extra bags allowed for $10 each; additional items at standard freight rates.
Luggage storage
Checked baggage stored under the bus; carry-on stored above or under the seat.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible Fare tickets can be canceled up to 15 minutes before departure for an open-dated ticket valid for 12 months.
Amenities on board the bus
Toilets
Accessibility
Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Bikes
Bicycles allowed for $49; must be packed securely and not exceed 2m in length.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cairns and Brisbane
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Cairns to Brisbane, you can count on Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Brisbane. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cairns and Brisbane and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cairns to Brisbane for bus company Greyhound Australia, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cairns to Brisbane:
- Greyhound Australia
- Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cairns to Brisbane depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound Australia
- Flexible Fare tickets can be canceled up to 15 minutes before departure for an open-dated ticket valid for 12 months.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cairns to Brisbane.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cairns to Brisbane:
- Greyhound Australia
- Two pieces of checked baggage up to 20kg each and one carry-on up to 8kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cairns to Brisbane:
- Greyhound Australia
- Two extra bags allowed for $10 each
- additional items at standard freight rates.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cairns to Brisbane. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cairns to Brisbane with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cairns to Brisbane with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cairns to Brisbane with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Brisbane
Things to do in Brisbane
Discover the best of Brisbane — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brisbane trip today.
- Must visit
Queensland Art Gallery
Major art museum featuring Australian, Asian, and Pacific works, valued for its riverside setting and strong permanent and touring exhibitions.
- Must visit
Queensland Museum Kurilpa
State museum showcasing Queensland’s natural history, science, and culture with family-friendly displays and notable skeleton and heritage exhibits.
- Must visit
South Bank Parklands
Brisbane’s signature riverside precinct offers gardens, lagoon, walks, cultural venues, and skyline views, making it a top all-round visitor area.
- Must visit
City Botanic Gardens
Large city garden with riverside paths, bamboo grove, and heritage plantings; a peaceful retreat beside the CBD and major landmarks.
- Must visit
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park
Clifftop park known for panoramic city views, picnic lawns, and sunset photography above the Brisbane River and Kangaroo Point cliffs.
- Gluten-free
Moreton Bay Bug
Moreton Bay bug is a prized local shellfish, usually grilled with butter or served chilled. It is a Queensland seafood classic often eaten in Brisbane.
- Gluten-free
Mooloolaba Prawns
Mooloolaba prawns from South East Queensland are known for their sweetness and freshness. In Brisbane they are a staple at seafood platters and riverside dining.
Queensland Mud Crab
Queensland mud crab is a local favourite, served steamed, stir-fried, or with chilli. It is celebrated for rich sweet meat and strong coastal ties.
Restaurant Dan Arnold
Elegant fine dining in Brisbane Powerhouse, known for seasonal Australian tasting menus and polished service with river views.
Agnes Restaurant
Refined modern restaurant in Fortitude Valley with inventive produce-driven dishes and one of Brisbane’s top special occasion dining rooms.
Lefkas Taverna
Classic Brisbane Greek taverna in West End, loved for generous share plates, grilled meats, and a lively long-running local atmosphere.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia: stays and dining are not cheap, but transit is reasonable and budget eats are easy to find in tourist areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- A$90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Plan your visit to Brisbane
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Brisbane.
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 Brisbane, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unlicensed rideshares can occur, so using official services is recommended. Additionally, travelers should be wary of ATM skimming and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Staying aware of surroundings and securing belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Cairns to Brisbane
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairns to Brisbane 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 Brisbane, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cairns and Brisbane including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cairns to Brisbane
Most Cairns to Brisbane buses use the Cairns to Brisbane, Coach Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Cairns and Brisbane bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cairns
Arrival bus stations in Brisbane
CairnsCairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Brisbane, Coach TerminalBrisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Brisbane, Coach Terminal bus station facilities and services
Brisbane, Coach Terminal has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brisbane, Coach Terminal: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Most popular bus connections from Cairns
More options for your journey from Cairns to Brisbane
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Brisbane and Cairns
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
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