- 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 Canberra to Melbourne
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$82
Average price
$92
Fastest journey
8 h
Average duration
8 h 5 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
466 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Canberra to Melbourne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Canberra to Melbourne will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $82.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Canberra for Melbourne on Sat, Aug 01, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct buses cover the 466 km distance in an average of 8 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest buses will take 8 h 10 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.
FlixBus3:45 AM8h05Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)11:50 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$821One-way0 transfers- FlixBus2:25 PM8h10Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)10:35 PMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$881One-way0 transfers
GX2339:30 PM8h00Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)5:30 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$1051One-way0 transfers
- GX2339:30 PM8h00Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)5:30 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$1051One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus3:45 AM8h05Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)11:50 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$821One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus2:25 PM8h10Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)10:35 PMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$881One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Canberra to Melbourne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Canberra to Melbourne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $110. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $110, and a flight costs an average of $71.
Distance: 289 miles (466 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$110 Average price Cheapest | $150 Average price | $97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Canberra to Melbourne is a bus with an average price of $110 (€90).
This is compared to other travel options from Canberra to Melbourne:
A bus is $39 (€32) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Canberra to Melbourne costing on average $150 (€122).
The fastest way to travel from Canberra to Melbourne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Melbourne take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canberra and Melbourne including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Canberra to Melbourne among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -2h -14m sooner (8h 0m by bus vs 6h 46m by car) and save roughly $-13.28 (€-10.82) compared to fuel and tolls ($110 (€90) vs $97 (€79)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Canberra to Melbourne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $98 |
Live departures
Canberra to Melbourne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Canberra to Melbourne buses for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 2:25 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) | 8h10 | 10:35 PM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX233 | 9:30 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) | 8h00 | 5:30 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 1 | |||||
| FlixBus | 3:45 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) | 8h05 | 11:50 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 Canberra to Melbourne by bus or flight
Compare 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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Aug 01
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Why should you book Canberra to Melbourne buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Canberra to Melbourne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canberra to Melbourne.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canberra to Melbourne.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Canberra to Melbourne.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Canberra to Melbourne
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Canberra to Melbourne run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $110 (€90) but you can travel from only $71 (€58) by flight.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 21:30, the last at 21:30. The fastest bus covers the 289 miles (466 km) distance in 8h 0m.
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 $71 (€58)
Distance 289 miles (466 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€90) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 0m |
First bus 9:30 PM |
Last bus 9:30 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $71 (€58)
Bus providers: Greyhound from Canberra to MelbourneYou can travel by bus between Canberra to Melbourne with Greyhound for as low as $71 (€58). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€90)
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
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 Canberra to Melbourne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canberra 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 Canberra to Melbourne can start from as little as $110 (€90) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Canberra to Melbourne is $110 (€90) ; 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 Canberra to Melbourne is 8h 0m to travel the 289 miles (466 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 Canberra to Melbourne leaves at 9:30 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Canberra to Melbourne leaves at 9:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Canberra to Melbourne with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Canberra to Melbourne, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Melbourne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Canberra and Melbourne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Melbourne from Canberra is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canberra and Melbourne including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Canberra to Melbourne:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Canberra to Melbourne for bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Canberra to Melbourne depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Canberra to Melbourne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Canberra to Melbourne:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Canberra to Melbourne:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Canberra to Melbourne.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Canberra to Melbourne with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Canberra to Melbourne with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Canberra to Melbourne with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Canberra 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Canberra 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.
Most popular bus connections from Canberra
More options for your journey from Canberra to Melbourne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Melbourne and Canberra
Most popular bus connections to Melbourne
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