- Must visit
Museum of Tropical Queensland
Large tropical museum with natural history, maritime heritage, and science displays focused on North Queensland.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cairns to Townsville
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$66
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 34 m
Buses on Sep 20
4
Distance
283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cairns to Townsville is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairns to Townsville will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 4 buses from Cairns to Townsville, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 283 km distance in an average of 5 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 15 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 6 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.
FlixBus8:15 AM5h15Cairns1:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$501One-way0 transfers
GX45611:00 AM5h30Cairns4:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$701One-way0 transfers- GX4547:00 AM6h00Cairns1:00 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$731One-way0 transfers
- GX4583:00 PM5h30Cairns8:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$731One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus8:15 AM5h15Cairns1:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$501One-way0 transfers
- GX45611:00 AM5h30Cairns4:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$701One-way0 transfers
- GX4583:00 PM5h30Cairns8:30 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$731One-way0 transfers
- GX4547:00 AM6h00Cairns1:00 PMTownsville, Breakwater Terminal$731One-way0 transfers
Cairns to Townsville Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $8 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $8 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $8 |
Live departures
Cairns to Townsville bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cairns to Townsville buses for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX454 | 7:00 AM Cairns | 6h00 | 1:00 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:15 AM Cairns | 5h15 | 1:30 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX456 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 5h30 | 4:30 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX458 | 3:00 PM Cairns | 5h30 | 8:30 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cairns to Townsville by bus
Compare bus 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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Sep 20
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Why should you book Cairns to Townsville buses with Omio?
Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cairns to Townsville.
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 Townsville.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cairns to Townsville
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Cairns to Townsville run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 22:15. The fastest bus covers the 175 miles (283 km) distance in 5h 15m.
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 175 miles (283 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 15m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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: Greyhound Australia, FlixBus from Cairns to TownsvilleYou can travel by bus between Cairns to Townsville with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for as low as $25. 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
5h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$25
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
5h 30m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$59
Greyhound Australia frequency
2 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.
Complete guide to Townsville
Things to do in Townsville
Discover the best of Townsville — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Townsville trip today.
- Recommended
Perc Tucker Regional Gallery
Regional gallery presenting contemporary and historical exhibitions with a strong focus on North Queensland artists.
- Recommended
Army Museum North Queensland
Volunteer-run military museum displaying vehicles, uniforms, and stories from regional service history and conflicts.
- Must visit
The Strand
Popular waterfront promenade with beach views, public art, swimming areas, and easy access to Townsville's coastal highlights.
- Recommended
Riverway
Lush riverside precinct with walking paths, lagoons, playgrounds, and regular events, popular with locals and visitors.
- Recommended
Queens Gardens
Botanic garden below Castle Hill featuring tropical plants, shade, and accessible paths in a peaceful heritage setting.
FAQs: Bus from Cairns to Townsville
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairns to Townsville 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 Townsville, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cairns to Townsville can start from as little as $25 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cairns to Townsville is $62 ; 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 Cairns to Townsville is 5h 15m to travel the 175 miles (283 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 Cairns to Townsville leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cairns to Townsville leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Cairns to Townsville with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cairns to Townsville, you can count on Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Townsville. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cairns and Townsville and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cairns , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cairns, Gordonvale, Norman St / Gordon St, Gordonvale, (cairns Road) . When arriving in Townsville , you can end your journey in bus stations like Townsville, Breakwater Terminal .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cairns, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Townsville from Cairns is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cairns to Townsville is June.
Yes, you can take a bus between Cairns and Townsville.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cairns to Townsville:
- Greyhound Australia
- Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cairns to Townsville for bus company Greyhound Australia, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cairns to Townsville 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 Greyhound Australia, FlixBus.
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 Cairns to Townsville.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cairns to Townsville:
- 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 Townsville:
- 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 Townsville. 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 Townsville with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cairns to Townsville with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cairns to Townsville with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Cairns nor Townsville 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 Cairns to Townsville 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 Townsville, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. Scams are relatively rare but be wary of unsolicited offers for tours or transportation services that seem unusually cheap or pushy. Always use licensed transport providers and official ticket sellers to ensure safety and avoid fraud.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cairns to Townsville
Most Cairns to Townsville buses use the Cairns to Townsville, Breakwater Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Cairns and Townsville 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 Townsville
CairnsCairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Which Townsville station do buses from Cairns arrive at?
Buses from Cairns to Townsville arrive at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal. Townsville, Breakwater Terminal is 1 miles (2 km) from Townsville city centre.
Townsville, Breakwater TerminalBreakwater Terminal, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Townsville, Breakwater Terminal from Townsville city centre
Townsville, Breakwater Terminal is 2 km from Townsville city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Townsville, Breakwater Terminal bus station facilities and services
Townsville, Breakwater Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal. ATMs are an ATM is located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Townsville, Breakwater Terminal: Accessible entrances and pathways are provided.
Most popular bus connections from Cairns
More options for your journey from Cairns to Townsville
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Townsville and Cairns
Most popular bus connections to Townsville
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