- Must visit
National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia presents major Australian, Indigenous, and international art collections plus a notable sculpture garden.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Melbourne to Canberra
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 30
- Cheapest price on Oct 30
- $147
- Average ticket price on Oct 30
- $179
- Fastest journey on Oct 30
- 8 h
- Average journey duration on Oct 30
- 8 h
- Buses on Oct 30
- 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 $179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $147.
Fast buses
On Fri, Oct 30, we found 3 buses from Melbourne to Canberra, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 30 the direct buses cover the 466 km distance in an average of 8 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h .
On Fri, Oct 30 the slowest buses will take 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.
GX32210:00 PM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 6:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $147 1 One-way 0 transfers
FlixBus9:00 AM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 5:00 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $194 1 One-way 0 transfers- FlixBus
5:00 PM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 1:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $194 1 One-way 0 transfers
- FlixBus
9:00 AM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 5:00 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $194 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:00 PM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 1:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $194 1 One-way 0 transfers - GX322
10:00 PM 8h00 Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) 6:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) $147 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Melbourne to Canberra
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Melbourne to Canberra run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 3m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€35) if you book in advance.
There are 3 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 7h 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 $42 (€35) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 7h 0m |
First bus 2:40 PM |
Last bus 2:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Melbourne to Canberra trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Melbourne to Canberra.
Cheap bus tickets from Melbourne to Canberra can start from as little as $42 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Melbourne to Canberra is $100 (€84) ; 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 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 3 direct buses a day from Melbourne to Canberra with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Melbourne to Canberra Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $92 |
Live departures
Melbourne to Canberra bus times
The table below shows live departures for Melbourne to Canberra buses for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 9:00 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 8h00 | 5:00 PM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 5:00 PM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 8h00 | 1:00 AM Canberra, Northbourne Ave (Novotel) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX322 | 10:00 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
Why should you book Melbourne to Canberra buses with Omio?
Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus 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 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.
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 $42 (€35). 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
$42 (€35)
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
7h 0m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$60 (€50)
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Melbourne and Canberra
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 Melbourne to Canberra, you can count on Greyhound Australia, FlixBus 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra for bus company Greyhound Australia, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Melbourne to Canberra:
- Greyhound Australia
- Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Melbourne to Canberra with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Canberra
Things to do in Canberra
Discover the best of Canberra — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canberra trip today.
- Must visit
National Museum of Australia
The National Museum of Australia explores the nation’s history, cultures, and stories through engaging permanent and temporary displays.
- Must visit
Questacon
Questacon is Canberra’s hands-on science centre, popular for interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and family-friendly learning.
- Must visit
Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin is Canberra’s central landscape for walking, cycling, picnics, and views of key national institutions.
- Must visit
Mount Ainslie Lookout
Mount Ainslie Lookout gives classic panoramic views over Canberra, especially at sunrise, sunset, or after a short bush walk.
- Recommended
Australian National Botanic Gardens
The Australian National Botanic Gardens showcase native plants, shaded walking trails, and seasonal birdlife near Black Mountain.
- Gluten-free
Pea and Ham Soup
A thick pea and ham soup linked to Canberra winters and local stalls, traditionally made with split peas and smoky ham hock for hearty cold-weather comfort.
- Gluten-free
Roast Lamb
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder or cutlets reflect Australia’s sheep-farming heritage and are a staple on Canberra menus, often paired with local herbs and vegetables.
- Gluten-free
Canberra District Shiraz
Canberra District shiraz is a regional signature, known for cool-climate spice, pepper, and bright acidity shaped by the area’s elevated vineyards.
Zaab Street Food
Popular Braddon eatery known for charcoal chicken, Middle Eastern flavors, salads, and wraps in a lively casual setting.
Restaurant Botanic
Refined dining room in Barton serving contemporary dishes with seasonal Australian produce and polished service in an elegant setting.
Pizza Artigiana
Bustling pizzeria and Italian venue in Braddon, best known for wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and a relaxed social atmosphere.
Australian dollar (A$)
Canberra is moderate for Australia. Hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and transit are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or a casual meal.
- 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 a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Plan your visit to Canberra
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 Canberra.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Melbourne and Canberra including taking a 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.
Most popular bus connections from Melbourne
More options for your journey from Melbourne to Canberra
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Canberra and Melbourne
Most popular bus connections to Canberra
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