- Recommended
Cairns Museum
Regional museum covering Cairns’ Indigenous, maritime and social history through well-curated galleries in the city centre.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest coaches from Townsville to Cairns
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Nov
- Cheapest price on 01 Nov
- £36
- Average ticket price on 01 Nov
- £41
- Fastest journey on 01 Nov
- 5 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on 01 Nov
- 5 h 33 m
- Buses on 01 Nov
- 4
- Distance
- 283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Townsville to Cairns is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Townsville to Cairns will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £36.
Fast coaches
On Sun 01 Nov, we found 4 buses from Townsville to Cairns, including 4 direct services.
These 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 .
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.
GX40617:00 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 22:40 Cairns £36 1 One-way 0 changes- GX408
8:00 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 13:40 Cairns £37 1 One-way 0 changes 
FlixBus13:45 5h10 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 18:55 Cairns £38 1 One-way 0 changes- GX404
14:20 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 20:00 Cairns £54 1 One-way 0 changes
- FlixBus
13:45 5h10 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 18:55 Cairns £38 1 One-way 0 changes - GX406
17:00 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 22:40 Cairns £36 1 One-way 0 changes - GX404
14:20 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 20:00 Cairns £54 1 One-way 0 changes - GX408
8:00 5h40 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal 13:40 Cairns £37 1 One-way 0 changes
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 £6 if you book in advance.
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:25, the last at 22:00. The fastest coach covers the 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 283 km |
Average bus duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 3:25 |
Last bus 22:00 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
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 coach tickets from Townsville to Cairns can start from as little as £6 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Townsville to Cairns is £46; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Townsville to Cairns leaves at 3:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Townsville to Cairns leaves at 22:00.
Yes, there are 3 direct coaches a day from Townsville to Cairns with Greyhound Australia, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Townsville to Cairns bus times
The table below shows live departures for Townsville to Cairns coaches for tomorrow, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GX408 | 8:00 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 13:40 Cairns | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:45 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h10 | 18:55 Cairns | 0 changesdirect | |
| GX404 | 14:20 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 20:00 Cairns | 0 changesdirect | |
| GX406 | 17:00 Townsville, Breakwater Terminal | 5h40 | 22:40 Cairns | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Townsville to Cairns coaches with Omio?
Greyhound Australia as well as FlixBus offer coaches 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 £6. 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
£18
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
£6
Greyhound Australia frequency
2 a day
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 coach 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 coach companies who offer a service between Townsville and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Townsville to Cairns for coach company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Townsville to Cairns:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Townsville to Cairns depends on the coach companies:
- 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 coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Townsville to Cairns.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Townsville to Cairns:
- 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 coach ticket from Townsville to Cairns:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach 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 coach from Townsville to Cairns with the following coach company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Townsville to Cairns with the following coach company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Townsville to Cairns with the following coach 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
Leading contemporary art gallery with changing exhibitions focused on Far North Queensland, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
- Recommended
The Australian Armour & Artillery Museum
Hands-on natural history museum featuring fossils, minerals, insects and wildlife displays that appeal to curious families and adults.
- Must visit
Cairns Esplanade
Seafront promenade with lagoon, play areas and walking paths; a central place for views, exercise and relaxed city strolls.
- Must visit
Esplanade Lagoon
Popular public swimming lagoon on the Esplanade, ideal for cooling off near the city centre with open grassy surrounds.
- Must visit
Cairns Botanic Gardens
Botanic gardens showcasing tropical plants, rainforest walks and shaded paths, well suited to a leisurely half-day visit.
- Gluten-free
Mud Crab
Mud crab is a Far North Queensland staple, usually served simply to highlight its sweet, rich flesh from tropical estuaries and coastal waters.
- Gluten-free
Barramundi
Barramundi is a classic northern Australian fish, prized for its mild flavour and flaky texture, often grilled or pan-fried in Cairns seafood venues.
- Gluten-free
Tiger Prawns
Tiger prawns from tropical Queensland are a local favourite, commonly cooked on the grill and valued for their fresh, sweet flavour.
Prawn Star
Busy casual seafood spot popular for fish, prawns and shellfish platters, with simple counter service near the waterfront.
Ganbaranba
Long-running local market venue serving Japanese dishes, especially ramen and gyoza, in a lively casual setting in Rusty’s Market.
Ochre Restaurant
Refined waterfront dining focused on local seafood and premium Australian produce, with polished service and views over Trinity Inlet.
Australian dollar ($)
Moderate for Australia. Hotels and tours can be pricey in peak season, but casual meals, local buses and supermarket food help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $15-25 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; cafés usually do not require tips.
Translink
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- A$0.50
- Day pass
- A$1.00
To the city centre
Cairns Airport -> Cairns Central Shopping Centre, Cairns
- Distance
- 6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap or pay onboard with a credit or debit card on Cairns buses. Cash is also accepted, but have the correct fare or small change ready.
- A Daily paper ticket gives unlimited travel on Cairns buses until the last service that day.
FAQs: Townsville to Cairns coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Townsville to Cairns by coach. 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 coach, 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 coach 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
Important Stations and Airports in Townsville and 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 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:
TRUE
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
