Travelling from Canberra to Brisbane showcases the diversity of Australia’s landscapes and cities. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a train, this guide provides all the information you need for a great trip. It covers travel times, distances, and tips for a smooth journey.
Driving Times From Canberra To Brisbane
The drive from Canberra to Brisbane is approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes if you take the fastest route via the Pacific Highway on the east coastline. It covers a total driving distance of over 1,185 km. The Inland Route, on the other hand, is slightly longer at 1270 km via the Newell Highway and A39 for a total of 14 hours and 10 minutes of driving time. It travels through regional towns and countryside, offering a glimpse of Australia’s rural landscape. It’s always been worth it to me! Personally, I love driving one way on the way up to Brisbane an another on the way back to get the best of both worlds.
The Best Stops Between Canberra And Brisbane
Stops along the inland route
The most popular place to stop on the inland route is Dubbo, thanks to its world-class Taronga Plains Zoo. Dubbo is about 5 hours from Canberra, making it the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs while looking at some lions on day 1. You can then drive another 4 hours north to Lightning Ridge for the night.
Taking a detour to Lightning Ridge does add another 2 hours to the total road trip time, but I think it’s worth it. Lightning Ridge is a quaint and historical opal mining town that gives you a real insight into the Australian outback and life in rural Australia.
I recommend having dinner at Bruno’s Italian Restaurant and then calling it an early night so you’re nice and refreshed for one of Lightning Ridge’s natural bore baths in the morning. Then you’ve got another 8 hours, and your trip to Brisbane is complete!
Stops along the coastal route
The coastal route has so many great places to stop for the night it’s hard to narrow it down and pick one. Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Sydney, and Byron Bay are all great destinations. Port Macquarie has to take the cake for the best place to stop along the way, though. Aside from being one of the most beautiful towns on the East Coast, it’s also almost exactly halfway between Canberra and Brisbane, with just over 6 hours on either side.
Port Macquarie is renowned for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and coastal walks. Highlights include the Koala Hospital, where you can learn about and see these native animals up close, and the Tacking Point Lighthouse, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Safety First
The Canberra to Brisbane road trip is a long drive. Whichever route you choose, make sure you stop regularly and get plenty of rest along the way so you can stay alert. Getting there in a timely manner isn’t as important as safety. Rest, revive, survive. Stretching the trip out to three days might be a good idea if you only have one driver.
Flight Times From Canberra To Brisbane
The flight from Canberra to Brisbane takes 1 hour and 43 minutes, and most flights are direct from the Canberra Airport (CBR) to the Brisbane Airport (BNE). This makes it by far the quickest way to travel from the Australian Capital Territory to the Queensland state capital – it might not be the cheapest, though! Ticket prices are, on average, around $350.
How to Find Cheap Flights for Your Canberra to Brisbane Trip
To find the best deals on flights, start by comparing prices across different airlines and booking platforms. Tools like Skyscanner are useful for comparing dates, airlines, and spotting deals from Canberra to Brisbane. Booking early and being flexible with travel dates can also help you secure lower fares.
Which Airlines Fly From Canberra To Brisbane
When selecting an airline, consider more than just the ticket price. Look at luggage allowances, in-flight services, flexible ticket options, and frequent flyer programs. Sometimes, opting for a slightly more expensive ticket upfront can save money in the long run if it includes additional benefits like checked baggage.
Catching The Train Or Bus From Canberra To Brisbane
For those not in a hurry, the bus is an alternative to flying or driving. The journey by bus takes approximately 18 to 20 hours and offers a cost-effective way to travel, with fares around $150-$200 one way. Services like Greyhound Australia provide direct routes, departing from Canberra and arriving in Brisbane. While it’s the longest travel method, buses offer scenic views and comfort features such as Wi-Fi and on-board restrooms. The bus journey allows you to see more of the countryside and relax along the way.
If you’re a fan of comfort and panoramic views when travelling, you might be interested in catching the train from Canberra to Brisbane. It will require a bit of extra planning, though. There’s no direct train service between these two cities, so passengers will need to take a train from Canberra to Sydney first, then transfer to a Brisbane-bound service. The entire journey can take around 35 hours, including transfer times, and it costs around $300 for a return trip.
While the trip is both long and not much cheaper than flying, it does give you a chance to experience the changing landscapes of Australia’s east coast, from the rolling hills of the Southern Highlands to the bustling cityscape of Sydney and the subtropical beauty of Queensland – all while enjoying the buffet cart and stretching your legs as much as you want!
Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the bus, enjoy Brisbane’s vibrant culture, stunning river views, and sunny weather!
