- Must visit
National Gallery of Victoria International
Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, known for major international collections, blockbuster exhibitions, and the iconic water wall on St Kilda Road.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sydney to Melbourne
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
10 h 45 m
Average duration
11 h 20 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
713 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sydney to Melbourne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sydney to Melbourne will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Sydney for Melbourne on Tue, Jun 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 713 km distance in an average of 11 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 45 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 12 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.
NFE217:00 PM11h15Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)6:15 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$521One-way0 transfers- NFE217:00 PM10h45Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)5:45 AMMelbourne, Campbellfield$521One-way0 transfers
GX2335:30 PM12h00Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)5:30 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$1081One-way0 transfers
- NFE217:00 PM10h45Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)5:45 AMMelbourne, Campbellfield$521One-way0 transfers
- NFE217:00 PM11h15Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)6:15 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$521One-way0 transfers
- GX2335:30 PM12h00Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station)5:30 AMMelbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross)$1081One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Sydney to Melbourne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Sydney to Melbourne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $160.
Distance: 443 miles (713 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$67 Average price Cheapest | $146 Average price | $160 Average price | $140 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 43m Average total duration 11h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 36m Average total duration Fastest 1h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 20m Average total duration 10h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sydney to Melbourne is a bus with an average price of $67 (€54).
This is compared to other travel options from Sydney to Melbourne:
A bus is $79 (€64) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sydney to Melbourne costing on average $146 (€118).
A bus is $94 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sydney to Melbourne costing on average $160 (€130).
The fastest way to travel from Sydney to Melbourne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 36m.
Other travel options to Melbourne take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 50m.
Bus takes on average 11h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sydney and Melbourne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Sydney to Melbourne 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 $67 (€54) compared to roughly $140 (€114) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $74 (€60). The journey takes 11h 13m versus 8h 52m 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.
Direct services are operated by Firefly Express, FlixBus, Greyhound, Firefly Express.
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.
Sydney to Melbourne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator Firefly Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $52 |
Live departures
Sydney to Melbourne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sydney to Melbourne buses for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX233 | 5:30 PM Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station) | 12h00 | 5:30 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NFE21 | 7:00 PM Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station) | 11h15 | 6:15 AM Melbourne, Spencer St (Southern Cross) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NFE21 | 7:00 PM Sydney, Pitt St (Central Station) | 10h45 | 5:45 AM Melbourne, Campbellfield | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sydney to Melbourne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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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Why should you book Sydney to Melbourne buses with Omio?
Firefly Express as well as FlixBus, Greyhound, Firefly Express and more offer buses services from Sydney to Melbourne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Firefly Express tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Firefly Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Firefly Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Greyhound or Firefly Express to find the best option for your trip from Sydney to Melbourne.
- 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 Firefly Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sydney to Melbourne.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sydney to Melbourne
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Sydney to Melbourne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by flight.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 443 miles (713 km) distance in 11h 10m.
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 $49 (€40)
Distance 443 miles (713 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 11h 10m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
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 $49 (€40)
Bus providers: Firefly Express, FlixBus, Greyhound from Sydney to MelbourneYou can travel by bus between Sydney to Melbourne with Firefly Express, FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $49 (€40). 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
FlixBus frequency
6 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
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
12h 0m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€140)
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.
Firefly Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 10m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Firefly Express frequency
3 a day
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
Major natural and cultural history museum featuring science, First Peoples exhibitions, and the famous Forest Gallery beside Carlton Gardens.
- Recommended
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
Federation Square gallery dedicated to Australian art, from First Nations works to colonial, modern, and contemporary pieces in a central location.
- Must visit
Federation Square
The city's best-known public square, next to Flinders Street Station, hosting major events, architecture, galleries, and riverfront access.
- Must visit
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Expansive central gardens with lakes, themed plantings, and walking paths, popular for relaxing, photography, and skyline views.
- Recommended
Southbank Promenade
Busy riverside walking area lined with public art, entertainment venues, and skyline views, especially lively in the evening.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Flat White
Melbourne’s signature espresso drink, made with velvety steamed milk and a strong coffee base. It is central to the city’s celebrated café culture.
Chicken Parma
A pub classic in Melbourne: crumbed chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese, usually served with chips and salad.
Meat Pie
A beloved Australian handheld pie with rich minced meat gravy in pastry. It is a familiar snack at bakeries, sporting events, and cafés across Melbourne.
Attica
One of Melbourne’s best-known fine dining restaurants, celebrated for inventive Australian tasting menus and a polished special-occasion experience.
Tipo 00
A highly regarded city restaurant specialising in fresh pasta, Italian small plates, and a compact, stylish atmosphere.
Flower Drum
A long-established Melbourne institution for refined Cantonese dining, known for formal service and classic dishes in an elegant setting.
Australian Dollar
Moderate for a major city: coffee and casual meals are manageable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricey in central areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- AUD 15-25 for takeaway or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- AUD 30-60 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- AUD 120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- AUD 5-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service; small tips for taxis are optional.
FAQs: Bus from Sydney to Melbourne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sydney 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 Sydney to Melbourne can start from as little as $50 (€41) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sydney to Melbourne is $67 (€54) ; 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 Sydney to Melbourne is 11h 10m to travel the 443 miles (713 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 Sydney to Melbourne leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sydney to Melbourne leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Sydney to Melbourne with Firefly Express, FlixBus, Greyhound, Firefly Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sydney to Melbourne, you can count on Firefly Express, FlixBus, Greyhound, Firefly Express for the best way to get you to Melbourne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sydney and Melbourne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Melbourne from Sydney is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sydney to Melbourne is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sydney and Melbourne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sydney to Melbourne:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sydney to Melbourne for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sydney 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.
- 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 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 Sydney to Melbourne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sydney to Melbourne:
- 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 Sydney to Melbourne:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sydney to Melbourne. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sydney to Melbourne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sydney to Melbourne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sydney to Melbourne with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Sydney 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 Sydney 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 Sydney
More options for your journey from Sydney to Melbourne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Melbourne and Sydney
Most popular bus connections to Melbourne
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