Melbourne to Canberra bus with FlixBus

Tue, Sep 15
+ Add return
Greyhound Australia
FlixBus
Greyhound
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
Greyhound Australia
FlixBus
Greyhound
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Melbourne to Canberra

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

$99

Average ticket price on Sep 15

$125

Fastest journey on Sep 15

8 h

Average journey duration on Sep 15

8 h 3 m

Buses on Sep 15

3

Distance

466 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Melbourne to Canberra will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.

Fast buses

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 3 buses from Melbourne to Canberra, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct buses cover the 466 km distance in an average of 8 h 3 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h .

On Tue, Sep 15 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.

  • Greyhound AustraliaGX322
    10:00 PM8h00
    Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
    6:00 AMCanberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)
    $991One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    9:00 AM8h00
    Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
    5:00 PMCanberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)
    $1311One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    9:45 PM8h10
    Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
    5:55 AMCanberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)
    $1451One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Melbourne to Canberra

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Melbourne to Canberra among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $100 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $100, while a flight costs an average of $576.

Distance: 289 miles (466 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$100

Average price

Cheapest

$576

Average price

$96

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 33m

Average total duration

8h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

6h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Virgin Australia International

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Melbourne to Canberra is a bus with an average price of $100.

This is compared to other travel options from Melbourne to Canberra:

A bus is $476 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Melbourne to Canberra costing on average $576.

The fastest way to travel from Melbourne to Canberra is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 27m.

Other travel options to Canberra take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Melbourne and Canberra including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Melbourne to Canberra 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 $100 compared to roughly $96 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.23. The journey takes 8h 3m versus 6h 56m 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.

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.

Melbourne to Canberra Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$101
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:45PM
Arrival Time
05:55AM
Duration
8h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$113
Operator
Greyhound Australia
Departure Time
10:00PM
Arrival Time
06:00AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$99

Live departures

Melbourne to Canberra bus times

The table below shows live departures for Melbourne to Canberra buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus9:00 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
8h00
5:00 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus9:45 PM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
8h10
5:55 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)0 transfersDirect
Greyhound AustraliaGX32210:00 PM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)
8h00
6:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel)0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Melbourne to Canberra 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.

Mon
Sep 14
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Why should you book Melbourne to Canberra buses with Omio?

Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus or Greyhound offer buses services from Melbourne to Canberra.
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 or Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Melbourne to Canberra.
  • 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 bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Melbourne to Canberra.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Melbourne to Canberra

AustraliaAustralia
AustraliaAustralia
Icon of bus

Buses from Melbourne to Canberra run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 3m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $52 if you book in advance.

There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 14:40, the last at 14:40. 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
Distance
289 miles (466 km)
Average bus duration
8h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$52
Buses per day
2
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
8h 0m
First bus
2:40 PM
Last bus
2:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
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: FlixBus, Greyhound Australia from Melbourne to CanberraYou can travel by bus between Melbourne to Canberra with FlixBus, Greyhound Australia for as low as $52. 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
8h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$52
FlixBus frequency
2 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
8h 0m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$96
Greyhound Australia frequency
1 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.

FAQs: Bus from Melbourne to Canberra

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Melbourne to Canberra can start from as little as $52 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Melbourne to Canberra is $100 ; 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 Melbourne to Canberra 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 Melbourne to Canberra leaves at 2:40 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Melbourne to Canberra leaves at 2:40 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Melbourne to Canberra with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Melbourne to Canberra, you can count on Greyhound Australia, FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Canberra. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Melbourne and Canberra and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Canberra from Melbourne 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.
The cheapest month for a bus from Melbourne to Canberra is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Melbourne and Canberra including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Melbourne to Canberra:
  • Greyhound Australia
    • Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra for bus company Greyhound Australia, FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Melbourne to Canberra 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.
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
  • 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, 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 Melbourne to Canberra.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Melbourne to Canberra:
  • Greyhound Australia
    • Two pieces of checked baggage up to 20kg each and one carry-on up to 8kg.
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
  • 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 Melbourne to Canberra:
  • Greyhound Australia
    • Two extra bags allowed for $10 each
    • additional items at standard freight rates.
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Melbourne to Canberra. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Melbourne to Canberra with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Melbourne nor Canberra 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 Melbourne to Canberra 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 Canberra, travelers should be aware of occasional pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in busy areas like markets and public transport hubs. Scams are relatively rare, but travelers should remain cautious of unsolicited offers or overly aggressive street vendors. Always use official taxi services or rideshare apps to avoid overcharging, and keep personal belongings secure when visiting popular attractions.
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 Melbourne to Canberra

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

Most popular bus connections to Canberra

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