- Recommended
Cairns Museum
Regional museum on Cairns history, people, and tropical life. Worth visiting for clear exhibits on the city's development and culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Townsville to Cairns
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $52
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $65
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 5 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 5 h 33 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 4
- Distance
- 283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Townsville to Cairns is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Townsville to Cairns will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast buses
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 4 buses from Townsville to Cairns, including 4 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 283 km distance in an average of 5 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 10 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 5 h 40 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.
FlixBus1:45 PM 5h10 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 6:55 PM Cairns $52 1 One-way 0 transfers
PM161:50 PM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 7:30 PM Cairns $67 1 One-way 0 transfers
GX4065:00 PM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 10:40 PM Cairns $69 1 One-way 0 transfers- GX408
8:00 AM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 1:40 PM Cairns $72 1 One-way 0 transfers
- FlixBus
1:45 PM 5h10 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 6:55 PM Cairns $52 1 One-way 0 transfers - PM16
1:50 PM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 7:30 PM Cairns $67 1 One-way 0 transfers - GX406
5:00 PM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 10:40 PM Cairns $69 1 One-way 0 transfers - GX408
8:00 AM 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 1:40 PM Cairns $72 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Townsville to Cairns
AustraliaAustralia
Buses from Townsville to Cairns run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $8 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:25, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 175 miles (283 km) distance in 5h 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 175 miles (283 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 3:25 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Townsville to Cairns trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Townsville to Cairns.
Cheap bus tickets from Townsville to Cairns can start from as little as $8 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Townsville to Cairns is $62 ; 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 Townsville to Cairns leaves at 3:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Townsville to Cairns leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Townsville to Cairns with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Townsville to Cairns Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Premier Motor Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator Greyhound Australia | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Live departures
Townsville to Cairns bus times
The table below shows live departures for Townsville to Cairns buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX408 | 8:00 AM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 1:40 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:45 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h10 | 6:55 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| PM16 | 1:50 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 7:30 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| GX406 | 5:00 PM Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 10:40 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Townsville to Cairns buses with Omio?
Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Townsville to Cairns.
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 Townsville to Cairns.
- 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.
Bus providers: Greyhound Australia, FlixBus from Townsville to CairnsYou can travel by bus between Townsville to Cairns with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for as low as $8. 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
5h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$25
FlixBus frequency
1 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
5h 40m
Cheapest Greyhound Australia Price
$8
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 Townsville and Cairns
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 Townsville to Cairns, you can count on Greyhound Australia, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cairns. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Townsville and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Townsville to Cairns:
- Greyhound Australia
- Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Townsville to Cairns for bus company Greyhound Australia, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Townsville to Cairns 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 Townsville to Cairns.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Townsville to Cairns:
- 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 Townsville to Cairns:
- 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 Townsville to Cairns. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Townsville to Cairns with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Townsville to Cairns with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Townsville to Cairns with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Cairns
Things to do in Cairns
Discover the best of Cairns — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cairns trip today.
- Recommended
Cairns Art Gallery
Modern gallery featuring changing exhibitions by local and national artists. A strong stop for contemporary art in the city center.
- Recommended
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
Cultural center and gallery presenting Yidinji traditions, dance, and art. Valuable for learning about Aboriginal culture near Cairns.
- Must visit
Cairns Esplanade
Waterfront promenade with lagoon, public art, gardens, and walking paths. A classic Cairns visit for relaxing, strolling, and city views.
- Must visit
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Popular public swimming lagoon on the waterfront. Great for cooling off safely and enjoying the Esplanade atmosphere in the city center.
- Recommended
Cairns Botanic Gardens
Botanic gardens with rainforest plant collections, shaded paths, and easy access to nearby walks. A favorite for nature close to town.
- Gluten-free
Barramundi
Barramundi is a prized local fish, often grilled or pan-fried. It is a Far North Queensland staple valued for its mild flavor and fresh tropical seafood identity.
- Gluten-free
Mud Crab
Mud crab from tropical north Queensland is usually served simply cooked to highlight its sweet meat. It is a classic regional seafood choice in Cairns.
- Gluten-free
Tiger Prawns
Tiger prawns are commonly served fresh, grilled, or chilled with sauce. They reflect Cairns' strong connection to local reef and coastal seafood.
Prawn Star
Busy seafood venue by the marina serving reef fish, prawns, oysters, and platters in a relaxed waterfront atmosphere.
Ochre Restaurant
Refined waterfront dining focused on tropical North Queensland produce and seafood in an elegant, modern setting on the Cairns esplanade.
CC's Bar and Grill
Polished dining room known for premium steaks, local seafood, and a broad wine list in central Cairns.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia. Hotels can be pricey in peak season, but casual meals and local buses are manageable for most 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$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Translink
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $0.50
- Day pass
- $1.00
To the city center
Cairns Airport -> Cairns City Centre
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay on Cairns Translink buses with a credit or debit card or cash onboard.
- Cairns Daily tickets give unlimited bus travel until the last service on the same day.
Plan your visit to Cairns
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 Cairns.
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 Cairns, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Scams involving overpriced tours or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it’s best to book transportation and excursions through reputable providers. Additionally, when exploring natural attractions, travelers should follow safety guidelines due to wildlife hazards like jellyfish stings in the ocean and crocodile warnings near waterways.
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 Townsville to Cairns
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Townsville to Cairns 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 Cairns, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a bus between Townsville and Cairns.
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 Townsville to Cairns
Most Townsville to Cairns buses use the Townsville, Breakwater Terminal to Cairns station pair. Use this guide to compare Townsville and Cairns bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Townsville
Arrival bus stations in Cairns
Which Townsville station do buses to Cairns leave from?
Buses from Townsville to Cairns leave from Townsville, Breakwater Terminal. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Townsville city centre at Breakwater Terminal, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia.
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.
CairnsCairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Most popular bus connections from Townsville
More options for your journey from Townsville to Cairns
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cairns and Townsville
Most popular bus connections to Cairns
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