- 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Melbourne to Townsville
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Melbourne to Townsville run on average 2 times per day, taking around 53h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $370 but you can travel from only $94 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 12:00, the last at 12:00. The fastest bus covers the 1286 miles (2070 km) distance in 53h 20m.
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 $94
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance1286 miles (2070 km)
- Average bus duration53h 55m
- Cheapest ticket price$370
- Buses per day2
- Fastest bus53h 20m
- First bus12:00 PM
- Last bus12:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthSep
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
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- Why book with Omio?Compare options, payment & support
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 $94
Frequently asked questions about your Melbourne to Townsville trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Melbourne to Townsville.
Cheap bus tickets from Melbourne to Townsville can start from as little as $370 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Melbourne to Townsville is $507 ; 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 Townsville leaves at 12:00 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Melbourne to Townsville leaves at 12:00 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Melbourne to Townsville which require at least one change with Greyhound Australia. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Melbourne to Townsville
Buses from Melbourne to Townsville with Greyhound Australia. Overnight buses available on this route with Greyhound Australia. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Greyhound Australia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Australia Duration
53h 20m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$370
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Melbourne and Townsville
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 Townsville, you can count on Greyhound Australia for the best way to get you to Townsville. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Melbourne and Townsville and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Melbourne to Townsville:
- Greyhound Australia
- Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Melbourne to Townsville for bus company Greyhound Australia.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Melbourne 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Melbourne to Townsville.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Melbourne to Townsville:
- Greyhound Australia
- Two pieces of checked baggage up to 20kg each and one carry-on up to 8kg.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Melbourne to Townsville:
- Greyhound Australia
- Two extra bags allowed for $10 each
- additional items at standard freight rates.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Melbourne to Townsville.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Melbourne to Townsville.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Melbourne to Townsville.
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.
- Gluten-free
Mud Crab
North Queensland mud crab is prized for sweet, rich flesh and is commonly served simply chilled or with garlic sauce along the coast.
- Gluten-free
Barramundi
Barramundi is a signature northern Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried. It is valued locally for its mild flavor and flaky texture.
- Gluten-free
Queensland Tiger Prawns
Tiger prawns from tropical Queensland are a local seafood staple, usually served grilled, chilled, or with simple seasonings that highlight freshness.
A Touch Of Salt
Modern fine dining in a heritage setting, serving seasonal Australian dishes with a strong seafood and grill focus.
Bridgewater Restaurant
Refined waterfront dining focused on premium Australian seafood and steaks, with polished service and marina views.
Odyssea
Casual seafood spot known for fresh local fish, prawns, and classic takeaway-style Australian seafood meals.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia. Hotels and tours can add up, but casual meals, coffee, and local buses are fairly typical for a regional city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- A$80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up. No tip is expected at cafes.
Translink
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- A$0.50
- Day pass
- A$1.00
To the city center
Breakwater Terminal, Townsville -> Townsville City Bus Hub, Townsville
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay on Townsville buses with a contactless debit or credit card, or cash with small change.
- Use the Translink app for real-time journey planning and service updates in Townsville.
Plan your visit to Townsville
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 Townsville.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Melbourne to Townsville
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Melbourne 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Melbourne and Townsville including taking a train, flight, and bus.
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 Melbourne to Townsville
Most Melbourne to Townsville buses use the to Townsville, Breakwater Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Melbourne and Townsville bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Melbourne
Arrival bus stations in Townsville
Which Townsville station do buses from Melbourne arrive at?
Buses from Melbourne 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:
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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 Melbourne
Most popular buses to and from Townsville and Melbourne
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