train travel melbourne to canberra

Melbourne to Canberra Train

Explore the most current information on trains from Melbourne to Canberra

Melbourne to Canberra Railway Route

Travel time

Trains per day

Reverse route

• Trains: NSW TrainLink regional express trains.
• Ticket price: from 99 USD an economy class seat.
• Seat reservation: after booking a ticket, you will be assigned to one of the seats.
• Ticket delivery: you can download the PDF of the tickets to print them or show on your electronic device when boarding a train.

Book Train Tickets from Melbourne to Canberra

Melbourne to canberra train details, departing from.

Southern Cross Station

Spencer Street, Melbourne, Victoria Australia, Australia

Arriving at

​Address: Burke Crescent, Kingston, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

FAQ: What to Know About Melbourne - Canberra Train

WHAT IS THE TRAIN FROM MELBOURNE TO CANBERRA CALLED?

IS THERE A TRAIN SERVICE FROM MELBOURNE TO CANBERRA?

There is a high-speed train, that can cover this distance between two big cities in a matter of just 13.5 hours.

WHERE DOES THE MELBOURNE TO CANBERRA TRAIN STOP?

The train departs from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne and arrives at Canberra Kingston Station.

Discover More Destinations in Australia

Sydney to canberra train, newcastle to sydney train, sydney to brisbane train.

Trains from Melbourne to Canberra

Best options, other options, melbourne to canberra train schedule, transportation from melbourne to canberra.

• Trains RUB 5,122
• Buses RUB 5,122
• Flights RUB 11,329
• Ferries are not available
• Taxis are not available
• Vans are not available

Facts about the train from Melbourne to Canberra

Popular routes, from melbourne.

• Melbourne → Sydney
• Melbourne → Adelaide
• Melbourne → Brisbane
• Melbourne → Perth
• Melbourne → Greater Geelong

To Melbourne

• Sydney → Melbourne
• Adelaide → Melbourne
• Greater Geelong → Melbourne
• Perth → Melbourne
• Canberra → Melbourne

From Canberra

• Canberra → Sydney
• Canberra → Gold Coast City
• Canberra → Brisbane
• Canberra → Adelaide

To Canberra

• Sydney → Canberra
• Brisbane → Canberra
• Gold Coast City → Canberra
• Adelaide → Canberra
• Perth → Canberra

Popular Routes in Australia

• Sydney → Brisbane
• Brisbane → Sydney

How to get from Melbourne to Canberra by Train

Taking a train to get from Melbourne to Canberra is a safe, fast, and scenic option to travel the country. On certain routes, there are multiple train departures per day every 10 to 15 minutes. This is typical for intercity travel, while for long distance train routes there are fewer scheduled departures – plan ahead to choose the one that fits your itinerary best.

For long distance train journeys, we recommend reserving your tickets at least a few days ahead of your travel date. Buying train tickets via our online booking system will allow you to choose and reserve the best Melbourne to Canberra tickets.

Buying your tickets online will help you secure the trip on the selected date and avoid queuing at the station.. When travelling on weekends and holidays it is recommended to reserve tickets much earlier due to a much higher demand. During high season, train tickets sell out quickly – do book as early as you can.

How far is it from Melbourne to Canberra?

Travelling by train, the distance from Melbourne to Canberra is 428 miles. Before setting on for a train journey, have a look at the map to find out what tourist spots or landmarks you will pass by – maybe they are worth a quick stop?

How long does it take to get from Melbourne to Canberra by Train?

Travel time from Melbourne to Canberra is estimated to be about 13h 35m. Trains ensure the fastest time to travel by land. As normally there is no congestion, the speed of travel is more or less constant and stops at train stations are rather short, train is almost always one of the quickest and safest ways to get from Melbourne and Canberra.

The most important thing that may affect train travel time is the type of train. Ordinary trains travel at a speed of about 40 mph or 65 km/h to 65 mph or 105 km/h. Some intercity trains with shorter distances between stations run slower than 40 mph. Even with these low speeds, it can still be faster than commuting by car, bus or taxi.

The speed of express trains can reach up to 100 mph or 160 km/h. Modern high-speed trains can run at speeds exceeding 250 mph or 400 km/h.

These speeds of travel together with relatively short stops between stations can greatly shorten the duration of your trip.

How much does it cost to get from Melbourne to Canberra by Train?

The train ticket price from Melbourne to Canberra varies depending on the types of trains or carriages available.

Some trains feature different types of carriages, seats and berths offering various amenities and level of comfort.

Basic passenger trains which are often non-air-conditioned and have wooden, hard or old seats are normally cheap. Premium or luxury trains and coaches have a higher ticket price but are equipped with air-conditioning, toilets, and large soft seats with sufficient legroom to make train rides comfortable.

Considering the distance travelled, train is the most affordable means of transport. Also, ticket prices include 2 or 3 bags – sometimes even more – per passenger.

Melbourne to Canberra timetable

Trains are great for long-distance travel. Double-check your travel itinerary and use the Melbourne to Canberra timetable above with train departure times and arrival times to find the best train for your route.

Best-Rated Companies for this Route

Unlike buses or taxis which have numerous companies offering their services, train service is usually offered by just one major company in each country. As railway service requires a large amount of infrastructure, most railway companies are government-owned and are a part of the national transport system.

One of the best advantages of travelling by train is that railway stations are often conveniently located within or very near major cities and urban areas. Immediately on arrival to their destination, travellers find themselves in close proximity to important facilities like hotels, supermarkets, and hospitals.

If you travel with a lot of bags and luggage, trains are your best option. Luggage weight limits on trains are rather flexible and allow you to carry multiple bags with you.

Special or luxury trains feature sufficient legroom which allows you to stretch your legs and relax. In comfort and space these train seats can be compared to business class airplane seats.

Similar to buses, trains can provide a variety of amenities to make your travel more comfortable and enjoyable. Modern trains have WIFI service, a snack counter and a drinking bar. Onboard toilets can be a life saver for travellers with queasy stomachs.

Lastly, unlike buses and other overland means of transport, trains are very rarely involved in accidents.

• Australia 🚆
• Transport Options

Trains from Melbourne to Canberra

Best options, other options, melbourne to canberra train schedule, transportation from melbourne to canberra.

• Trains RUB 5,122
• Buses RUB 5,122
• Flights RUB 11,329
• Ferries are not available
• Taxis are not available
• Vans are not available

Facts about the train from Melbourne to Canberra

Popular routes, from melbourne.

• Melbourne → Sydney
• Melbourne → Adelaide
• Melbourne → Brisbane
• Melbourne → Perth
• Melbourne → Greater Geelong

To Melbourne

• Sydney → Melbourne
• Adelaide → Melbourne
• Greater Geelong → Melbourne
• Perth → Melbourne
• Canberra → Melbourne

From Canberra

• Canberra → Sydney
• Canberra → Gold Coast City
• Canberra → Brisbane
• Canberra → Adelaide

To Canberra

• Sydney → Canberra
• Brisbane → Canberra
• Gold Coast City → Canberra
• Adelaide → Canberra
• Perth → Canberra

Popular Routes in Australia

• Sydney → Brisbane
• Brisbane → Sydney

How to get from Melbourne to Canberra by train

Train from Melbourne to Canberra is a decent alternative to bus or air travel. Travelling from Melbourne to Canberra by train is easy, safe, and convenient. There is a direct railway link between the two destinations, which makes your trip smooth and hassle-free. Tickets are available for online booking and it is a good idea to buy them in advance to secure your seat. To get the most out of your train journey, check the schedule and choose the most convenient departure. As a rule, trains and ticket classes are available for every taste and budget.

How far is Melbourne from Canberra?

The distance from Melbourne to Canberra is 688 km. Railways link the two destinations so that you can travel direct without connections. If there are connections, they will be indicated in your ticket.

How long does it take to get from Melbourne to Canberra by train?

Depending on the type of train, the length of your railway journey from Melbourne to Canberra may vary. The slowest train needs about 15h 30m to get to Canberra, and the fastest one brings you there in about 13h 35m. We recommend opting for the fastest service to save you time, especially if you travel by day. With overnight service, the difference of a couple of hours seems not so crucial and may prove even convenient.

Note that trains normally depart on time from their station of origin but sometimes come later than scheduled to their terminus. It is better not to plan short connections if you are going to continue your journey immediately after arrival to Canberra.

In many destinations, train stations are located very centrally and have good transport connections with the rest of the city, bus stations, and airports. It mostly concerns the older and well-established railway stations. The newer and bigger ones tend to appear in the outskirts of towns and cities, first of all, due to the reason of limited space in the central locations. Getting to and from there may be challenging even by taxi, as restrictions may apply on taxi operators allowed to serve the passengers. Hence, we highly recommend double-checking the location of the station you will depart from and arrive at as some destinations have several train stations.

How much does it cost to get from Melbourne to Canberra by train?

There may be carriages of a different class on one and the same train on one and the same route. The price of your ticket will vary accordingly – from a dirt-cheap tag for hard seats to high numbers for super comfy overnight sleeper berths on luxury trains. For the Melbourne – Canberra route, the cheapest ticket costs while if you want to travel with more comfort, expect to pay for the most expensive option.

Travelling by train essentials

• Train tickets often sell out well before the date of departure. Book them in advance even if your travel does not fall onto high-season dates. Travelling during peak periods which also include public and national holidays, and long or bank weekends, advanced booking is a must if you do not want to remake your travel plans on the spot. It is unnecessary to go to the train station to book – buy your ticket online in a few clicks.
• Advanced booking ensures you get the seats and berths you want. For example, the lower berths are always the first to sell out, while upper berths may be available even on the departure date. Similarly, for longer distances, it is the night trips that enjoy the highest demand, while you may be able to grab a ticket for the same route an hour before departure if it is an inconvenient day ride that eats a huge part of your time.
• There may be different carriages within one and the same train: fan-only and air-conditioned; hard seats and soft seats; second class berths and private compartments. Before buying your ticket, make sure you understand what type of seat you are paying for. Prices may differ greatly, but sometimes it is a good idea to pay more not to spend 20 hours on a hard seat in a fan-only carriage. In general, second-class berths are a good choice for longer overnight trips, while for shorter 4-6-hour day journeys, a soft seat is a great option.
• Air-conditioning on trains can be excessive – as well as heating during the cold season. Make sure to pack layers not to get cold or hot during your trip. In hot countries, fan-only carriages are a cheaper and acceptable alternative to air-conditioned carriages.
• There are toilets on board a train. Depending on the type of train, some carriages can be equipped with simple squat-type toilets or normal Western toilets. Regardless of your ticket's price, the train toilets' cleanness is not often up to the standard, alas. It especially concerns cheaper classes, though even in first-class carriages, complaints are not unheard of.
• There is normally a dining carriage on long-distance trains, but on some routes, dining carriages have become extinct due to covid-19 restrictions. Check in advance if food is available on board or simply pack some snacks to be on the safe side. On many trains, you will also see hawkers patrolling the aisles during the journey and selling soft beverages and snacks. Alcohol drinks are prohibited on trains.
• Smoking is prohibited, too, if, of course, you are not travelling by a common class somewhere in China or Indonesia!
• Arrive at the train station at least half an hour before departure to allow enough time to find your platform and go through check-in formalities. A passport or other ID which you use for buying your train ticket is almost always needed, so keep it at hand to produce when asked at check-in or boarding.
• Trains may arrive at their destination later than scheduled. These delays are not uncommon, especially for long-haul routes. Be ready and plan accordingly. Yet compared to buses, trains are less weather and traffic dependent hence more reliable schedule-wise.
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Getting to Canberra

Canberra is the capital city of Australia, situated inland between the cities of Sydney and Melbourne. You can fly, drive, catch a bus, jump on a train to Canberra.

Fly to the capital

Canberra is less than two hours flying from eastern Australian cities making it perfect for short breaks and weekend getaways.

Daily domestic services are available to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne or fly direct from Adelaide, Hobart, and Newcastle with connecting flights to Ballina Byron, Port Macquarie, and the Gold Coast.

Accessing Australia’s capital from overseas is simpler than ever before. Fly from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Vancouver to Canberra with Fiji Airways. Enjoy a tropical stopover in Fiji, adding a touch of paradise to your journey, and revel in the convenience of direct flights connecting Nadi in Fiji to Canberra.

Batik Air, a member of the Lion Air Group of Indonesia, will commence direct flights between Bali and Canberra three times weekly from June 2024. The new service from Denpasar to Australia’s capital will connect travelers throughout south-east Asia to Canberra. 

Canberra Airport is serviced by Qantas, Virgin, Jetstar, Rex Airlines, Fly Pelican, Link Airways, Fiji Airways and Batik Air.

Drive to Canberra

Driving to Canberra is a breeze. Australia’s capital is a three hour drive from Sydney and eight hours from Melbourne. There are plenty of scenic route alternatives if you like to get off the beaten track and visit one of the many country towns along the way.

Jump on a train

Canberra has a picturesque direct rail service from Sydney. Departing from Sydney Central Station, the daily service travels to Canberra via the Southern Highlands, Goulburn and Bungendore. Terminating at the Canberra Railway Station in Kingston, the trip takes a leisurely four-and-a-half hours. Check timetables and book online through  Transport NSW .

While there is no direct Canberra to Melbourne rail service, it’s possible to catch the train to Albury and then be transferred by coach. You can find timetables and booking information from  Public Transport Victoria  for Canberra to Melbourne (via Albury) route. Alternately, catch the Melbourne to Sydney train and transfer to the Canberra train from the Goulburn railway station.

Catch a bus, coach or hire a chauffeured car

Bus and coach services operate to and from Canberra from the Snowy Mountains, the South Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and beyond. See  Murrays Coaches, Buses & Limousines ,  Greyhound Australia  or  Road Jet  for routes, prices and timetables.  

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Train Journeys from Canberra

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Canberra to Melbourne Trains

Canberra to melbourne train : distance, timetable & tickets.

Connect the capital city of Australia to the vibrant cultural hub with a high-speed train journey from Canberra to Melbourne. Traverse the scenic route in approximately 3 hours, experiencing the seamless journey through the heart of the country. Whether you're exploring government landmarks or enjoying cultural attractions, this efficient train link ensures a comfortable and swift connection between the political significance of Canberra and the cultural richness of Melbourne.    

High-Speed Trains from Canberra to Melbourne

2 fastest trains from canberra to melbourne, popular trains from canberra and melbourne.

The train staff was very nice and we liked the rail trip

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Melbourne to Canberra: Bus vs Train

Key differences.

Comparing bus to train travel from Melbourne to Canberra, consider these key aspects:

Cost Savings: Traveling by bus is notably wallet-friendly, making it an attractive option for budget-focused explorers.

Lush Landscapes: Buses provide an immersive visual journey through Australia’s countryside, perfect for scenic admirers.

Social Vibes: The communal nature of buses creates a vibrant social environment, allowing for meaningful interactions.

Embark on a journey from Melbourne to Canberra by bus, blending cost savings, picturesque landscapes, and onboard comforts into an approximately 8-hour trip.

Cost Efficiency: Bus fares are typically more wallet-friendly, offering a cost-effective solution for those watching their travel expenditure.

Scenic Views: En route, passengers enjoy the rolling hills and rural vistas unique to the Australian landscape.

Travel Duration: The bus ride lasts about 8 hours, a perfect time for those who appreciate unrushed travel.

Amenities: Most buses provide Wi-Fi and reclining seats, ensuring a sustained level of comfort throughout your trip.

Channel Crossing: With no channels to cross, the journey remains smooth and uninterrupted from start to end.

Eco-Friendliness: Choosing the bus supports the environment, with a lower per-person carbon emission than individual cars.

Flexibility: Daily departures at various times give you the control to align the travel with your schedule.

Luggage Policy: The convenience of a generous luggage allowance without hefty fees is another plus of bus travel.

Boarding Process: Straightforward boarding means you spend less time queuing and more time enjoying your travel.

Social Interaction: A communal atmosphere on the bus fosters connections, making it easy to exchange stories or make friends.

Embark on a train journey from Melbourne to Canberra and enjoy a blend of cost efficiency, stunning scenery, and pleasant amenities over a comfortable time frame.

Cost Efficiency: Train fares are competitively priced, providing an economic travel option for cost-conscious passengers journeying between the two cities.

Scenic Views: Wind through panoramic vistas of Australia’s unique landscapes, making the train window your personal moving picture frame.

Travel Duration: Cover the distance in about 7 hours; perfect for those who enjoy unraveling the countryside at a measured pace.

Amenities: Enjoy onboard amenities including Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and connected trip.

Channel Crossing: No waterways intersect this inland route, presenting uninterrupted travel without the need for ferries or bridges.

Eco-Friendliness: Trains provide a greener alternative with lower emissions, helping you reduce your carbon footprint as you travel.

Flexibility: With several departures daily, select a train schedule that best fits your agenda and travel without rush.

Luggage Policy: Benefit from a more lenient luggage policy, typically allowing for a couple of sizable items at no extra charge.

Boarding Process: Avoid long lines and complicated check-ins; railway stations offer swift, hassle-free boarding procedures.

Social Interaction: The train’s communal seating and lounge cars encourage conversation and connections among travelers.

Conclusion: Navigating the Best Route from Melbourne to Canberra

Assessing Melbourne to Canberra trips highlights distinctive advantages for bus and train travel. Buses deliver cost savings, unhurried travel with scenic charm, and consistent onboard comforts across an 8-hour journey. They are a smart pick for the budget-conscious or those eager to soak in the picturesque countryside at a leisurely pace. Trains, covering the route around an hour quicker, offer fast, relaxed trips complemented by convenient amenities like Wi-Fi and dining.

Your choice ultimately depends on your travel priorities. If you appreciate a budget-friendly fare and scenic value, the bus is your go-to. Yet, for efficiency and smooth commuting, I recommend the train. It ensures you arrive with ease, ready to embark on your Canberra adventure.

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Canberra to Melbourne (Southern Cross) Train times 29 April 2024 at 4:50 am

• Duration 8h15

Travel time

Travel time between Canberra and Melbourne (Southern Cross) is 8h15

• Canberra station
• Melbourne (Southern Cross) station

Today's train schedule

• Melbourne (Southern Cross) Canberra train times
• Train from Canberra to Melbourne (Southern Cross)

Weekly schedule

• Canberra Melbourne (Southern Cross) timetable
• Melbourne (Southern Cross) Canberra timetable

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Book Sydney to Canberra by train

Book online and save

Get a 10% discount when you book online, or up to 20% discount when you book 5 or more days in advance. Conditions apply.

Discount is exclusive to tickets bought through this website and applies to seasonal Adult fares.  

Book a NSW TrainLink train from Sydney to Canberra

Tickets available in both directions.

NSW TrainLink train services will take you from Sydney Central railway station to Canberra Kingston station in less than 4 and a half hours. The train travels via the Southern Highlands, Goulburn and Bungendore. So sit back, relax and let NSW TrainLink take you there. 

Highlights:

• On board buffet car
• Choice of Economy or First Class travel
• 3 train services per day

How to book

• Book tickets  online, over the phone, or at the station .
• Advance booking is recommended to secure your seats and ensure availability.

Ways to save

The best ways to save on train fares from Sydney to Canberra: 

• Book online and save:  Get the best fares and secure your seats by booking online. You can save up to 10% on your ticket price when you book online.
• Book in advance: :  When you book a Standard Adult fare online 5 or more days before your planned departure date, you can get a discount of up to 20% on your fare.  Conditions apply .
• Travel outside of peak season - Peak fares apply during busy travel periods, including in the lead up to and during school holidays, public holidays and major events.  Check fare seasons times to see when you can save .
• Look out for special deals  - Take advantage of special sale fares  when they're on offer. 
• Buy a Discovery Pass - Get unlimited travel to more than 365 destinations.

Please note: Opal cards are not accepted on NSW TrainLink trains.

Seating options

When travelling on Regional train services, you can book a style of travel that suits your needs. 

Economy Class Seat

• 1 piece of large luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
• Lean back on 28 degree recline seats
• Air conditioned cabin

First Class Seat

• 2 pieces of luggage and 1 hand luggage
• Stretch out with a 40 degree seat recline and extra leg room

Book your trip now

* All fares shown are one-way Adult fares only. Fares vary seasonally in response to demand and may be different to those shown here.

Find out more about XPLORER train carriages layout .

Trip summary

The things to know before you go

Route map and timetables

Check out the full train timetables departing from Sydney to Canberra, and for the reverse journey from Canberra to Sydney.   Check travel alerts  for up-to-date information before you travel.

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