Melbourne to Canberra by Bus 

Travelling from Melbourne to Canberra by bus offers a comfortable, scenic, and affordable way to connect two of Australia’s most distinctive capitals — one cultural, the other political. The route winds through picturesque countryside and regional towns before arriving in the heart of the nation, where grand architecture meets natural beauty. With FlixBus, you can enjoy a smooth and modern journey featuring Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and air conditioning, making this long-distance trip relaxing from start to finish. 

Departing from Melbourne 

Your journey begins in Melbourne, a city renowned for its laneways, art scene, and café culture. Before boarding your FlixBus, take some time to explore the streets that make the city so vibrant and full of personality. 

Getting to Your Departure Stop in Melbourne 

Reaching your FlixBus stop is easy thanks to Melbourne’s well-connected transport system: 

• Trams – The iconic trams are the heart of Melbourne’s public transport. The Free Tram Zone within the CBD allows unlimited travel without charge, while a myki card is required for routes beyond it. 
• Trains – Metro services run frequently through the City Loop, connecting major CBD stations such as Southern Cross, Parliament, and Flinders Street. Southern Cross Station is also the main hub for interstate and regional travel. 
• Buses – Complementing trains and trams, city buses reach outer suburbs and regional areas not served by rail. 
• Taxis and rideshares – Whether heading from your hotel or a late-night venue, taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and DiDi are widely available across the metropolitan area. 

Arriving in Canberra 

Your FlixBus journey concludes in Canberra, Australia’s purpose-built capital — a city designed around symmetry, open spaces, and natural landscapes. Known for its museums, galleries, and lakeside lifestyle, Canberra is as calm as it is captivating. 

Getting Around Canberra 

Once you’ve arrived, travelling around Canberra is simple thanks to its clean layout and reliable transport options: 

• Light rail and buses – The Transport Canberra network connects key areas across the city. The light rail runs between Gungahlin and the city centre every few minutes, while Rapid bus routes link major suburbs. 
• Taxis and rideshares – Easily available and ideal for door-to-door travel, especially for visitors staying in areas beyond the city centre. 
• Cycling and walking – Canberra’s wide roads, lakeside paths, and parks make it one of the most cycle-friendly cities in Australia. 

Things to See and Do in Canberra 

After arriving in the capital, you’ll find a city filled with culture, nature, and national significance. 

• Australian War Memorial: One of Canberra’s most moving landmarks, the memorial combines a museum and shrine dedicated to Australians who served in conflict. The daily Last Post Ceremony is a memorable tribute. 
• Parliament House: A symbol of democracy and architectural elegance, Parliament House offers tours that explore the debating chambers, artwork, and panoramic rooftop views. 
• Lake Burley Griffin: The heart of Canberra’s design, the lake is perfect for walking, cycling, or relaxing by the water with views of the city’s major landmarks. 
• National Gallery of Australia: Home to an extensive art collection, including Aboriginal, European, and modern works, the gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. 
• Mount Ainslie Lookout: A short drive or hike from the centre, this viewpoint offers one of the best panoramas of Canberra’s planned geometry and surrounding bushland. 
• National Arboretum Canberra: A breathtaking landscape of more than 44,000 trees spread across rolling hills, the Arboretum is ideal for scenic walks and stunning views of the Brindabella Ranges. 
• Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre: A family favourite, Questacon brings science to life through interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and engaging demonstrations. 
• Australian National Botanic Gardens: Showcasing a vast collection of native plant species, the gardens are a peaceful place to explore Australia’s natural diversity. 
• Old Bus Depot Markets: Each Sunday, Kingston transforms into a lively hub of food, art, and handmade crafts — a perfect spot to experience Canberra’s community vibe. 
• Braddon and Dickson Precincts: Braddon buzzes with independent cafés, street art, and boutiques, while Dickson is famous for its authentic Asian restaurants — both are excellent for an evening out.