road trip brisbane to melbourne

40 Best Stops Between Brisbane and Melbourne

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

How long is the drive from Brisbane to Melbourne?

The direct drive from Brisbane to Melbourne is 1,104 mi (1,777 km) , and should have a drive time of 16 hrs 46 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sydney , the Gold Coast , Canberra , Katoomba , Cessnock , Port Macquarie , Byron Bay , Coffs Harbour , Newcastle , and Pokolbin , as well as top places to visit like Warner Bros. Movie World and Surfers Paradise Beach, or the ever-popular Sea World.

Top cities between Brisbane and Melbourne

Coffs Harbour

Port macquarie.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along Brisbane to Melbourne drive

Warner Bros. Movie World

Surfers paradise beach, skypoint observation deck.

Coolangatta Beach

Tweed regional gallery & margaret olley art centre, natural bridge, springbrook national park, cape byron walking track, cape byron lighthouse cafe, the farm byron bay, suttons juice factory, girraween national park, the big banana fun park.

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary

Dorrigo national park.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Trial Bay Gaol

Koala conservation hospital port macquarie, sea acres rainforest centre, gan gan lookout, newcastle memorial walk.

Blackbutt Nature Reserve

Peterson house - hunter valley winery, hunter valley gardens.

The Entrance Town Centre Management

Australian reptile park.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Manly Beach

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Sydney opera house, fig tree lawn - royal botanic garden, bondi to coogee walk.

Top searches in Melbourne

Other popular road trips from brisbane, explore nearby places.

• Collingwood
• Middle Park
• Port Phillip
• South Yarra
• Clifton Hill
• North Fitzroy
• Brunswick East
• the Moonee Valley
• Williamstown
• Moonee Ponds

All related maps of Melbourne

• Map of Melbourne
• Map of Yarra Glen
• Map of Fitzroy
• Map of Collingwood
• Map of Middle Park
• Map of Port Phillip
• Map of South Yarra
• Map of Richmond
• Map of Yarra
• Map of Abbotsford
• Map of Clifton Hill
• Map of North Fitzroy
• Map of Travancore
• Map of Prahran
• Map of St Kilda
• Map of Brunswick East
• Map of Windsor
• Map of Toorak
• Map of Brunswick
• Map of Monash
• Map of Yarraville
• Map of Ascot Vale
• Map of the Moonee Valley
• Map of Northcote
• Map of Footscray
• Map of Williamstown
• Map of Moonee Ponds
• Map of Hawthorn
• Map of Glen Eira
• Map of Newport

Melbourne throughout the year

• Melbourne in January
• Melbourne in February
• Melbourne in March
• Melbourne in April
• Melbourne in May
• Melbourne in June
• Melbourne in July
• Melbourne in August
• Melbourne in September
• Melbourne in October
• Melbourne in November
• Melbourne in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Melbourne?

Get inspired for your trip to Melbourne with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 2-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 3-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 4-Day Melbourne Itinerary
• 5-Day Melbourne Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from brisbane to melbourne.

Yes! You can drive from Brisbane to Melbourne.

How far is Melbourne from Brisbane by car?

The drive from Brisbane to Melbourne is 1,104 miles (1,777 km).

How long does it take to drive from Brisbane to Melbourne?

Driving from Brisbane to Melbourne should take you 16 hrs 46 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Brisbane to Melbourne?

Gas from Brisbane to Melbourne would cost around $97 to $226 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Brisbane to Melbourne?

You could check out Warner Bros. Movie World and Surfers Paradise Beach, or the always popular Sea World!

What are the best cities to visit between Brisbane and Melbourne?

People love visiting Sydney, Gold Coast, and Canberra, among others.

What's the weather like in Brisbane?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Brisbane in January
• Weather in Brisbane in February
• Weather in Brisbane in March
• Weather in Brisbane in April
• Weather in Brisbane in May
• Weather in Brisbane in June
• Weather in Brisbane in July
• Weather in Brisbane in August
• Weather in Brisbane in September
• Weather in Brisbane in October
• Weather in Brisbane in November
• Weather in Brisbane in December

What are some other road trips from Brisbane?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Brisbane.

• Brisbane to Sydney drive
• Brisbane to Melbourne drive
• Brisbane to Noosa drive
• Brisbane to Byron Bay drive
• Brisbane to Canberra drive
• Brisbane to Coffs Harbour drive
• Brisbane to Toowoomba drive
• Brisbane to Cessnock drive
• Brisbane to Port Macquarie drive
• Brisbane to Cairns drive
• Brisbane to Adelaide drive
• Brisbane to Katoomba drive
• Brisbane to Bundaberg drive
• Brisbane to Hobart drive
• Brisbane to Hervey Bay drive
• Brisbane to Townsville drive
• Brisbane to Dubbo drive
• Brisbane to Stanthorpe drive
• Brisbane to Port Douglas drive
• Brisbane to Ballarat drive
• Brisbane to Launceston drive
• Brisbane to Murwillumbah drive
• Brisbane to Torquay drive
• Brisbane to Shoalhaven drive
• Brisbane to Pokolbin drive
• Brisbane to Airlie Beach drive
• Brisbane to Rainbow Beach drive
• Brisbane to Wollongong drive
• Brisbane to Rockhampton drive
• Brisbane to Seventeen Seventy drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Two-Week Itinerary Road Trip from Brisbane to Melbourne (Detailed Guide with Map and Costs)

A road trip is probably the best way to see the best of Australia and actually visit it properly. Having a well-planned self-driving itinerary, you will allow yourself to get more immersed in what the beautiful Australian East Coast has to offer by being able to see the hidden gems where tourist buses do not venture. Ideally, doing this itinerary from Brisbane from Melbourne would be better with more time but not everyone has more than 2 weeks to spend on a road trip so we thought this guide would be perfect for the majority of normal vacationers that plan to do a two-week road trip in Australia.

Pro-Tip: This road trip is recommended if you are flying in from Brisbane International Airport and fly out in Melbourne but it is completely customizable to your own desires of what you want to see and and plans or the, your timeframe and the time of year you’re planning on doing your road trip. There are international airports in Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne (from North to South order).

Quick Tips Before Heading Off On Your East Coast Australia Road Trip

How long does it take to drive the east coast of australia.

It is a question we get asked a lot, but it is really up to you and the time you have in your hands! Ideally forever and take your sweet sweet time and jump from the coastal city to another and go deep in the outback (inland). Don’t forget that each state is actually going very deep in and if you do a coastal trip only, you will skip many nice mountains and waterfalls that are more inland. For example, our current trip and itinerary you will read, there is almost no inland stops as we kept the trip pretty much coastal. You could technically do our drive until Melbourne and loop inland to go back up to Brisbane and fly out if you wanted to!

So we don’t have an exact answer for you as driving Australia is quite a long and never-ending discovery journey! Driving from Cairns all the way down to Melbourne can take you a good 40 hours plus driving and over 3,700km distance but that would

This is ultimately up to you. There’s no golden answer, however, many people do not realise how big Australia is. Driving from Melbourne to Cairns along the coastal route is over 3,700km and over 42 hours of driving (without detours to sites along the way). You could drive it in less than a week, but you’d miss out on everything. 

I would allow a minimum of 3/4 weeks to drive the whole East Coast. On my east coast Australia road trip, I took around 3 weeks but that felt very rushed and I didn’t see all the amazing sites. Thus, on the second trip, I took 6 weeks to drive the route. For me, this was the perfect amount of time to see all beautiful lesser-known sites as well as the main tourist attractions like Fraser Island, The Whitsundays and Byron Bay etc. 

Hire Or Buy a vehicle for your Australian Road Trip?

For general vacationers that are not travelling full time, it is a given that renting a vehicle is the best way to go. If you are more travelling a long time, you may come across the decision-making point of buying or renting a vehicle. The answer is directly depending on the time you plan to spend on travelling in Australia. Accommodation costs can be quite high if you plan to stay a long time in Australia so you might want to have a campervan in which you can be cosy inside a car and not a tent and avoid when you can to pay for a campground or accommodation during the journey. If you think you will travel for less than a month, hiring a car would be the best option. We worked in collaboration with JUCY, driving their Coaster Van but there are many options you can check from this JUCY is not exactly in your range of price or standards. We have a non-affiliated link for 10% off if you want to book a van with JUCY rentals using INSTA10.

• Hippie Camper  
• Wicked Campers
• Cheapa Campa
• Travellers Autobarn
• Apollo Camper

If you’re staying in Australia for a longer period of time within your visa period (don’t forget you can always come back out and in and have your car there waiting for you for another segment of a road trip) and want to see more of Australia, buying a car/camper-van could be a better idea for your wallet.

Pro-Tip: In any case if you rent or buy a car, a diesel vehicle will give you more distance for each buck you fuel on! 

Buying a car isn’t that bad that it sounds. Many think that they will be stuck with it but don’t forget that you can always sell it again and pass it on after your trip! Most of the time, if you take care of your vehicle, you will be able to sell it pretty much at the similar price you bought it for. A 4×4 is usually recommended as you can go off-road and drive on beaches as well if you can. You can find a good 4×4 car at around 5000$AU

Day 1 – Brisbane to Noosa, Sunshine coast

November 9, After saying goodbye to Mum in Brisbane, we got an Uber and got dropped off at JUCY Brisbane headquarters. From there, it was a short initiation process with the basics of our JUCY Coaster van. We learned how to put the bed down, seats up, know how to charge all the batteries properly and how to drain the water from the sink. After checking for scratches, we were told that this was the first time that the vehicle we took has been put out on the roads. So, it was a bit of an honour for us to take it for its first ride.

We know, we said it is a Brisbane to Melbourne trip but we had to go north to see more of Noosa . As first-timers in Australia and having a vehicle, we recommend you highly to make your way to Noosa to spend at least a day there. The Noosa Spit and the Noosa National Park is so worth it to spend the day.

But before we headed up the coast to Noosa for the next few days, we had a mission. We had to pick up a microphone across town. After we dodged that detour with ease (and a brand-new microphone for vlogging) we headed up the coast, but not before a little snack break at Red Rooster, which is Mitch’s version of KFC. Ok, more like the Australian version of KFC, you must try it once and get the buttermilk wings, they are so good for fast food wings!

Finally, headed up the coast and after a little stop at our friends’ house, we made it to the Sofitel Noosa, the location where we would be catching the ferry. They have ferries virtually every hour, and we were lucky to catch the last return trip ferry at 4:30 pm. The return trip, up and down the Noosa river, takes approximately 1.5 hours and is a great way to see all the mini areas of Noosa. If you are lucky, there is a great opportunity for sunset on the water as well.

As the sun was setting, we headed back into our JUCY Coaster van and got closer to our first ever sleep in the van at the Habitat Noosa . However, a huge problem had arisen. Due to the pending bushfires not so far away, they had closed the main road to get to our campground of Habitat Noosa, which means we were stuck to have to go the long way. The long way it was and it was a tiring extra 40km drive and took an unnecessary effort of 40 minutes over the normal time of 15 minutes to get there. So, about an hour later, we finally made it to the campsite. I couldn’t believe it, it was the same campsite I had visited in 1996. The exact same cabin I stayed in is still very much there. A few more modifications such as the nice glamping sites but the place were pretty much the same! We arrive a bit late after check-in time so the staff have left a card for us to be able to enter the grounds to reach our campsite. They have both campsites that are powered and non-powered so you have many options around to be able to be close to the lake, which was essential to us considering we had kayaking in the Noosa everglades the next morning.

Before going to sleep, we settled at the Microbrewery (modern with TVs, food and delicious beer) to be able to charge all our essentials such as laptops and drone batteries. We did about a good 2 hours of work until almost closing time of the bar at 9:30 PM. To our luck, we were able to spot a kangaroo, Thuymi’s first-ever encounter with a roo in Australia!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 5, 2019 at 8:59pm PST

Day 2 – Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Queensland

November 10, After spending a comfortable night in our JUCY Coaster Van at Habitat Noosa at a powered camping site, at around 7 AM, we relaxed a little before heading over for a walk closer to the main hub of Habitat Noosa where the restaurant and the kiosk are situated. We were lucky enough to see a kangaroo having a morning graze, nonchalant of any kids running around and screaming, including an approaching Asia’s, aka me with my camera trying to get a few slow-motion footages of the big man. We then had to drive off to the canoe launching pad at Habitat Noosa where we were to meet up for a day of adventure on kayaks in the Noosa Everglades . After been given basic instructions on how the day would go by, we were given a cooler (icebox, Eski, chilli bin depending where you’re from!) and a giant waterproof bag to put in whatever camera gear you want to bring during the activity. The tour takes pretty much until 2-3 PM so had to bring over a lot of water. Snacks or lunch depending on what we wanted to do at rest areas during our Everglades kayaking excursion. After packing up a few biscuits, water and a solo (an Australian lemonade soft drink I quite fancy), we walked over to the shore to join our kayaks and got instruction about the kayaks. After pulling them over to the water, we got further explanation on our route. This tour is very much for adventurous and independent people as you will navigate around by yourself without any guides to tell you where to go. 

We decided to head back a bit earlier than 2:30-3 PM which is the usual time people get back from this tour and got back instead of at around 1 PM to be able to go back to the centre of Noosa to be able to catch up with a friend from here before leaving Queensland. We had a decent feed and Laguna Jack’s, which is a good laid back restaurant to have a drink and feed right by Hastings Street, the main happening street of Noosa. The sunset was incredible and even better when we headed to the Noosa Spit to enjoy.

Pro-tip: Note that in Noosa you must be in a legal caravan park to spend the night in your van. Habitat Noosa is a very nice option right by the lake if you want to have an amazing experience spotting kangaroos in the wild.

That night, while we settled for our night sleep, we were able to spot at least 5 to 6 kangaroos around grazing on grass, it was fantastic to know we were spending the night around a ton of our kangaroo friends and nobody else literally parked around us since it was a Monday night and everyone had left. This won’t be the same when the school holidays start in Australia!

Day 3 – Noosa to Gold Coast, Queensland

November 11, After hitting the road very early as we had to be at 7:45 AM at the Noosa Marina for our last activity in Noosa, we were blessed with the road being open and taking only 15 minutes to get there! So we arrived earlier and got some coffee. We were booked to be just us two for the Ocean Rider Dolphin watching tour . We were not so lucky to see our friends, that happens, they have quite a huge playground out there in the ocean! Although, the tour itself to go on the speedboat and jumping the waves is a thrill on itself you MUST do in Noosa. It was so fun to be in the air with the speedboat while riding on the waves. It is also a perfect way to see the Noosa National Park via the ocean as we went further after Hell’s Gate, which by the way looks majestic from the water. I personally was unimpressed when I hiked to the Hell’s Gate because I rated the Fairy Pools during that hike way higher! So we went to also see Devil’s Kitchen , another wonderful spot all up to Sunshine Beach before we headed back. The tour was about 1:30 hours but we went for about 2 hours considering we were just us. Absolutely loved the experience being out the Noosa part of the Ocean.

We then headed out towards the Gold Coast which took about 3 hours to reach our friends’ place in the Gold Coast, where we were able to catch up, had an amazing BBQ and refreshed up with good company.

An afternoon in the Gold Coast can be like this: going to enjoy some time at Main Beach, walk the whole jetty if you feel like it, followed by a walk all the way to the mini lighthouse at the spit. Grab a good fish and chips, but most importantly, a deep-fried Mars bar, that will change your life forever. We got ours at Miami’s Takeaway Fish and Chips. For sunset, go to Burleigh Point lookout, spread your picnic towel, sit back and relax. If you have more time during the day, you can spend some time at the beautiful Tallebudgera Creek, perfect for some drone flying and Coolangatta at Point Danger where you can see the border of Queensland and New South Wales memorial. There you can go tan at Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks for a swim. Tweed Heads is nice as well to hand around and fly the drone. It is also known to be a spot you can spot dolphins, again if you are lucky! We were unlucky and were not able to fly the bird around Coolangatta because there were very much high winds that Mitch even got pushed by its intensity!

Day 4 – Gold Coast to Byron Bay

November 12 , This day we left our friends Tom and Emma’s at 10 AM however we were not in a hurry at all. We had been watching the news all evening and morning and had great concerns about what the next few days of travel would bring us. The premier of NSW had just released a state of catastrophe as there as apocalyptic style bushfires that are ravaging the state currently. And guess what, we are heading straight into the “war zone”. First, the bad news is that many of the national parks are closed which we had to change quite a bit our itinerary to see mostly just coastal spots. The second thing that is terrible at all the people and wildlife affected by these fires. There have been a lot of articles around the internet and that has saddened us a lot for this trip.

As we headed to Byron Bay and gathered more information about where we would be spending the night, we quickly realized Byron Shire is very much like Noosa, not liking much the people sleeping in their vans. We as tourists are quick to be mad at that but let’s not forget campervans and campers during the whole year (and worse during the school holidays and summer) flock the area and literally floods the place without contributing back to the community hence our way to be able to give back if we stay in town is to pay for it.

During that day on our way to Byron Bay, we made sure to stop at a few places. We spend quite some time at Kingscliff, one of my favourite places to be. The little quiet beach was amazing and the colours were to die for. The wind was extremely strong that day, making drone flying not quite ideal but ah well! There we met fun locals and cute doggies.

Our next stop was Cabarita, a place where Mitch and his family would go every Christmas for many years. It wasn’t my favourite place as it was just pretty much a sleepy coastal town with a beach like many others I have seen but since it has some sentimental meaning for Mitch, we had to stop there to have our lunch!

The last stop planned before heading over to Byron Bay was Pottsville. Another cute beach to hang around and pretty much have all to yourself. All these beaches were by FAR better than Byron Bay’s beach in my own personal opinion.

When we arrived in Byron, we stationed ourselves in the may parking, which was by the way, it is paid parking to park so don’t forget to pay, we decided to drive towards the lighthouse. The Byron Bay lighthouse is possibly the best of all the ones we have seen in the full 14 days but since we travel much, these things don’t really excite us as much so we just took a few glimpses from the high viewpoint before heading out of Byron to go to have an early sleep and wake up early for sunrise.

Read more about Free Places to Camp in Byron Bay.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 12, 2019 at 4:16am PST

Day 5 – Byron Bay to Port Macquire, NSW

November 13 , With a wake-up alarm at 5 AM, we departed around 5:35 AM from the rest area to head towards Byron Bay to enjoy the sunrise, or at least what was left of it considering we left a bit later and that we were 20 minutes away from the centre of it all. As we entered Byron Bay, the sun was orange-red because of the haze and absolutely at the hugest size, we have ever seen it before. After parking a little bit at the main beach parking lot to see the sun rising over the mountain where the lighthouse is, we have headed over to the lighthouse itself to see the situation. As expected, the parking was full of other adventurers that hoped to get some parking early to walk all the way to the lighthouse to enjoy the sunrise. It is a paid parking there which starts from 9 AM to 6 PM. To drive further closer to the lighthouse, it was not possible at that time as the gate keeps away any vehicle access. The only way to enjoy the lighthouse it by walk and find a place to park your car at other parking spots. This only means you will have to walk uphill to get to the lighthouse. If you are visiting during high season, take this into consideration.

After grabbing a little yoghurt, blueberries and nuts breakfast from our JUCY Coaster van in Byron Bays’ street, we’ve headed out to grab a quick coffee and treat at Frost before driving for around 20 minutes away South to reach Lennox Heads and relax a little bit with a scenic viewpoint. We then drove about 2 hours from there to reach Coffs Harbor , where you can find the Big Banana of Australia! The Big Banana is also a marking point of halfway from Brisbane to Sydney , which was a pretty fun pit stop for us to walk around and snap a few pictures with the banana. We then went into the shoreline of Coffs Harbour to see some surfers from the Marina. If you have some time, you can get free parking, park there and go for a walk all the way to conservation headland island which is all connected by that footpath. We decided to drive to the Jetty more south, which is more ideal for aerial photography but unfortunately were surprised with road closures until another week due to major construction there. The only way to make it was to park our car and walk, which would’ve taken us 1.1km before even reaching the jetty. It is quite a short walk but considering our tight schedule, we decided to give it a pass and head back on the Pacific Highway to keep going South.

After grabbing some iced coffee and some essential foods, we arrived in Port Macquire at around 2 PM where we settled for a little nap before going to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital to see the feeding at 3 PM. It is free admission to enter the Koala Hospital of Port Macquire so totally worth a stop to attend feeding time which is also at 8 AM if you can’t make it for 3 PM. With the koalas being endangered, Australians take it very much at heart to take care of them. They adopt the koalas if they permanently can’t go back to the wild and do their best to take care of the injured ones and train them to be ready to go back in the wild when possible. There are no entrance fees, the hospital operates purely on donations. They have had many patients from the bushfires, unfortunately. We recently heard in the news that all koala hospitals are full now due to so many koala burn victims. We made sure to enjoy the free tour at 3 PM to get incredible photos and video footage and give up a donation to contribute to helping our koala friends.

At around 5 PM we headed out to the lighthouse of Port Macquire , a beautiful elevated viewpoint and completely chill and not so crowded which made it extra special to visit. We really enjoyed being at this spot and seeing it from the sky. The scenery at this lighthouse is very much dramatic event thought the lighthouse on itself isn’t grand compared to the one in Byron Bay! We decided then to have a very early night sleep at a rest stop within the town by a lake to wake up early, have a meat pie at the most delicious place in Australia for meat pies and have a nighttime drive to get to our next destination.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 13, 2019 at 11:33pm PST

Day 6 – Port Macquire to Palm Beach (North Beaches of Sydney)

November 14 , Mitch woke up around 2 AM and snoozed a little bit until we left at 3 AM to go eat at the most famous and awarded for many years the best meat pie of Australia, Bel‘s bakery.

So if you are spending some time in Port Macquarie , do not miss the chance to eat the best meat pie in your life! We ordered two meat pies, a Reef & Beef, which has beef with many shrimps (aka prawns 🦐 in Aussie) and a chicken, bacon and cheese. On top of that, we got a caramel slice and a cherry ripe 🍒 slice which was incredibly good. After devouring our meat pies we hit the road and drove for about three hours to arrive at 7 AM at Port Stevens where we parked in a park rest area to have a very good one hour nap. 

After gaining full energy, we went to find a coffee shop at Nelson’s Bay and then drove to multiple bays to explore. Port Stevens has many bays you can hop around to visit. The main activities and scenic things to do is the Fingal Bay Walk and the Tomaree Walks. Considering we wanted to cover the most places to see in a day, we flew the drone up instead to take photographs of the views. It did not disappoint. Port Stevens is surely a beautiful spot for aerial photography especially if you get closer to the sandbank area. We spent some time going to the lighthouse of Salamander bay (no drones allowed here, followed by Zenith Beach at the Tomaree National Park and ending our Port Stevens exploration at Fingle Beach . Around 10:30 AM we have already seen a little bit of Port Stevens and left to go towards Newcastle where the plan was to do more aerial photography and enjoy the rock pools.

About 11:40 AM we arrived in Newcastle , which is a town that was built on the coal industry in the 1870s. Fact, Australia is exporting a whole lot of its coal to China which represents a major part of the economy of the country. We settled to do some people watching for 30-45 minutes and chilling around the Newcastle Ocean baths before flying the bird up for some aerial views.

We then headed over Bogey Hole which is a much smaller rock pool but full of adrenaline rush as the waves hit very hard at the edge of the pool. Must say that I jumped in the water but didn’t go at the edge as mitch did. The pool was not too crowded at all, people usually not staying over too long anyway when they come over to test out the natural pool!

The final stop was the Merewether Ocean pool but to our disappointment, it was the day they cleaned the pool! It was completely empty and we couple, unfortunately, bathe there nor fly the drone because, well, wool was empty! So instead we went to have a good warm shower at the facilities there. 

Pro-tip: Look for established ocean pools to have access to hot showers. You can research in advance to make sure they have shower facilities. This is perfect for those doing a campervan trip!

We planned a coffee shop session from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM to get some work done before hitting the road again for about an hour and a half towards Sydney and settle for the night at Palm Beach . 

We decided to park and the very end of Palm Beach where is also located the lighthouse. We thought it would be a perfect place to wake up to and enjoy the sunrise. There at least 4-5 other combis like ours and other 4×4 of surfers or travellers were around settling for the night. The parking area at the end of Palm Brach is gigantic so you can surely find privacy in your parking spot, we totally felt alone at this location. Not to mention the perfect spot to see the “moon rise up” for the night. 

Day 7 – Palm Beach to Nowra, NSW

November 15 , What an exhausting day. We stayed up at Governor Philip car park up near the lighthouse at Palm Beach . This is also the location for the Australia famous TV show, Home and Away. This is a great place to park as there are many spots and there are not too many people around. There are also toilets and showers to use. Note that the shower was an outdoor shower but better than nothing at all. Grab coffee or breakfast at the Boathouse, it is a super cute spot where we did grab a delicious coffee to go!

The goal on that day was to avoid Sydney and still get as many beaches possible outside the CBD before the traffic would get bad but of course, we caught it anyway considering being midday Friday and most people want to get out of work or out of the city.

The first place that we visited was the Mona Vale Rock Pools , this one was one of our favourite beaches. Note that it is paid parking and only to be paid by card.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 14, 2019 at 8:01pm PST

We then went to North Curl Curl Beach and Manly Beach where we had a good coffee at Gloria Jean’s and lunch at Guzman y Gomez because we kept driving by it and had to try! Mainly beach is a very nice spot, would definitely recommend you to chill here instead versus Bondi that would be way more crowded. Mainly Beach has wonderful blue/turquoise water so you will love it.

So getting out of Sydney towards the south, we had a ton of traffic. We skipped Bondi since we have been and it wasn’t worth the extra two hours detour. Instead, we went to the Royal National Park to go see the Figure 8 pool . Unfortunately, at our arrival, the staff told us that all trails are closed due to the bushfires and the unhealthy conditions in the air. There was only beach access and waterfall and we decided to go anyway to see the Royal National Park after driving that much! The cost of the national park is 12$AU per vehicle. It was nice to be able to settle down a bit, we crossed over to the beach to avoid a short hike which was way more time-efficient for us! Definitely spend at least a whole morning or day if you have the time to hike this beautiful National Park by the coast.

After enjoying our time there, we drove towards the south to Nowra where we would be spending the night and have a few hours at the modern McDonald’s to charge up all of our technology. 

On the way, I spotted on the map this Hindu temple, Sri Venkateswara Temple , which made us feel like in Sri Lanka or something! Our favourite part was to see the dozens of cockatoos and lorikeets around.

We also decided to drive the long way to stop by a rock pool in Austinmer and drive the beautiful coastal Seacliff bridge towards Wattamolla.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thuymi Voyage 🇻🇳🇨🇦🇦🇪 (@thuymi) on Nov 18, 2019 at 1:49am PST

The decision to stay in Nowra was because it was still in the city and not too far from Jarvis Bay for the next morning. 

Day 8 – Nowra to Batesman Bay, NSW

November 16 , Waking up slowly due to hearing the rain, we took it easy and made our way slowly to McDonald’s for a second round of charging up and using most of the internet possible to load up everything we needed for the next two days at least. Around 9:30 AM we headed over to Beecroft National park , which is the northern part of Jervis Bay. Our research of things to do for the day in the Shoalhaven area was a bit too positive, considering the rain and how late we left Nowra so we limited our visit to that National Park that is free and Huskisson.

Taking a small detour due to the triathlon going on in Jervis Bay, it took longer before we arrive at the tip of Beecroft at the lighthouse. We went to have a quick look and got to say it would’ve been so great to fly the drone around if it wasn’t so windy! We enjoyed it nevertheless except the high number of flies trying to find their ways in your nose or mouth! This day was particularly a horrible day in terms of flies everywhere! There was also a high amount of it at Honeymoon Bay which is also in the same park and that we absolutely wanted to go see and attempt to do some aerial photography. Results did not disappoint even with the lack of sun. Imagine if there was some sun! A fun spot for people to snorkel around and have a swim. We rate highly the Beecroft National Park which has many hiking paths, all very well presented in a pamphlet given at your park entrance by very welcoming staff. With camping grounds only 15$ per ground, it is worth it to spend at least 1 or 2 nights to be able to enjoy all the beaches and hikes. We were lucky enough to encounter 3 kangaroos, mummy, a little one and her tiny joey (Australian’s call their baby Koalas and Kangaroos, Joeys). We encountered two groups, one foreign group and the other Australians, that were feeding the kangaroos and we had to tell at least to one of them that it is not recommended to feed wildlife. If you go to places like this with wildlife, please do not feed them unless you are at a sanctuary that allows you to do so. It is also recommended to not touch the animals and protect their personal space.

After Honeymoon Bay , we headed to see Long Beach North which was only 100 meters to walk to, considering we didn’t have much of the time to hike. The sun was shy again with the day being super moody and cloudy but luckily, we literally had 5 minutes of sun and us able to sneak in a little couple’s photo, something we haven’t much done during this trip!

After that, we planned a little less than an hour to drive to our next spot, Huskisson to be able to capture this beauty from the sky. The place was buzzing of people that came from the triathlon in the morning. We walked around, had some classic fish and chips, probably our last one as our diets have been taken a real hit out of too many fish and chips! We then went to have coffee and a nice chat with a sweet lady with her doggies before hitting the road again to Bateman’s Bay where we were told by a friend that we could see kangaroos on the beach. But first, here are some roo photos we took at the National park in the camping area on our way walking to Honeymoon Bay.

When we arrived at Bateman’s Bay , we realized it is a little coastal town like many others, where would be the kangaroos? We had to jump on the internet to only realized the exact location was 20km back and we had to drive again 20km backwards to Pebbles Beach , known as the best beach in Australia to spot our kangaroo friends by the beach. The place did not disappoint, there were at least 20 kangaroos around grazing on the grass. Only a few ventured by the sand to have the beautiful beach backdrop. It is rumoured that during the summer when it is extremely hot, that’s when the kangaroos like to jump in the water.

Pro-Tip: Bring some coins! The parking and national park fee are to be paid at the parking meter there in coins only, 8$ Australian. We did not have the coins so had to take the risk with Mitch running back and forth twice to make sure with don’t get a fine!

It was such a great moment and we are so happy we made some time to come over this national park to enjoy the kangaroos. We drove around after to go see Depot Beach before hitting the road again and finding a rest area to snooze until the next day.

For the night sleep, we settled 20 minutes after Bateman’s Bay in a rest area. We were only 3 vans total for the night, quite a small area and definitely a place you can trust to be settling during the summer when it’s very much high season.

Day 9 – Bateman’s Bay, NSW to – Lake Entrance Day

November 17 , We woke up at around 5 AM and Mitch was already ready to hit the road at around 6 AM to drive around 2 hours to arrive at Bega, the home of the best cheese of Australia! Since we were there way before 9 AM, we were not able to visit the Cheese Heritage House nor buy it from any shops so we had to go to Coles to get some! At least we “got some cheese from Bega”? Haha. After a good breakfast in the van, we were ready to head over to our next destination. This day was planned to be a very long drive and get the further we can down towards Melbourne. For lunch, we stopped in this little cute township of Eden , where we got a coffee and I made us some bread and pate with veggies for lunch. We gt back on the road and crossed the border with only a stop for more coffee.

At around 3 PM we arrived at Lake Bunga, a lake not too far from Lakes Entrance . We wanted to see something before getting to Lakes Entrance, it was a cute little spot, but it was very very windy so it wasn’t the best for us to settle there. We then entered Lakes Entrance and went straight to one of the islands accessible by car to be able to fly up the bird. It was so majestic to see this place from the sky. We then chased a few viewpoints including the Lakes Entrance Lookout, Jemmy’s Point Lookout and Kalimna Jetty to see some giant pelicans. We went straight to the spit, got the drone out and got to flying. It is nearly 400m from the viewing point to the spit so have your drone charged. All of these points are within 3 minutes drive of each other, and you can even combine them into a walk if you wish to keep your trip as active as possible. A great place for a sunset. As the sun went down, we kept driving own the road until we got to Bairnsdale, a little town which hopefully ad some charging points and wifi. While we couldn’t get what we wanted, we did find a Subway which we could eat cookies and charge up. We decided that hey best place to stay here was outside the 24 hours McDonald’s.

Day 10 – Bairnsdale, East Gippsland to Wilson’s Promontory National Park, Victoria

November 18 , With an early morning wake up at 6 AM, we grabbed a coffee then headed to Sale in the hope that the McDonalds there would have charging points like the one in Nowra. To our disappointment, it didn’t so we made a decision to head over Traralgon where we would make a detour in Bunnings and few other car shops to find a car ground plug like the one we had in our South African Road Trip to be able to keep our laptops charged during future road trips we are planning. To our dismay, they all had nothing we exactly needed so we ended up just going to a very nice coffee shop, Coffee Corner, right across the road with delicious food, coffee and not only it was a cosy space, it has good wifi and electrical plugs.

After a well-needed work session, we left at around 10:50 AM toward Wilson’s Prom which is about a 1:50 hours. At this national park, we enjoyed a whole lot of wildlife and beaches. It started with the hike to reach the Big Dunes. It was super super super windy but we made it there without too much sweat thanks to it. On our way there, we tried to spot a black snake which 2 people saw and these little echidnas that a family we met at the parking lot told us they saw. Unfortunately couldn’t spot any but we did see many holes (giant holes) in the dirt which made us believe they are wombat homes. At this point, we still haven’t encountered a wombat in the wild other than unfortunate dead ones by the road. Dunes were beautiful in their own right, different types like we know from the Middle East, these ones with incredible green mountains to the horizon instead of more dunes.

We then went to the beautiful Squeaky beach which has many rock formations that reminded us a lot to La Digue island where similar rocks but more giant-sized can be found.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 18, 2019 at 8:28pm PST

After spending most of our day enjoying the sun and exploring Wilson’s promontory, we headed to this little path marked as a wildlife walk where you are likely to spot kangaroos and wombats. We were lucky and spotted a wombat, two emus and a ton of kangaroos. To our luck, we saw a wallaby as we were we walking out the path back to our car. While driving out of the park we actually spotted at least 2 other wallabies. The best way is definitely at dusk and dawn these encounters sure proved to us how we can see significantly more wildlife during those times. Again, be aware of driving in the national parks and on highways marked as more likely to have wildlife crossings at those times of the day.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Travel Experts ✈️🇦🇪🇨🇦🇦🇺 (@adventurefaktory) on Nov 19, 2019 at 7:49pm PST

Day 11 – Toora to Melbourne, Victoria

November 19 , Our road trip took a different road thanks to our amazing friend David that had us staying over and park our van at his dad’s farm. It was so nice to spend the night there, waking up to a delicious coffee and tons of cute baby dogies cuddling us. We took the morning quite easy working on our laptops, showering and getting the van organized as we entered Melbourne earlier than we have planned which would give us plenty of time to catch up with good friends, have work done and actually relax a bit because Mitch has been driving quite a bit, 3149 KMs to be exact. About 10:30 AM we left towards Phillip Island. Because of road works, we, unfortunately, arrived too late for the Pelican feeding at noon. We literally arrived at 12:20 PM but it was all done! The weather was very bad anyway and I feel like I didn’t really miss out because I’ve seen quite enough of pelicans anyway! If you love these kinds of activities, this is actually something you can do at Philip Island.

We then headed to the tip of the island which is Nobbies View Point. There you can do a short walk around the point to see all the boxes which lots of them have baby little penguins residing in there. If you are lucky you will spot them peeking their heads out .

• What are the other cruises you have done before? 
• Any other recommendations for cruisers you would like to add?
• Don’t forget to book your travel insurance before travelling.
• If you don’t have your flights, check out ways to book the cheapest fares here .

Disclaimer: The JUCY team sponsored our van for the trip. All of the opinions about our trip and tips are entirely ours. Thanks.

Things to know before travelling to Nepal

You may also like.

L’Odyssée, le réconfort d’hiver: A series of winter activities in downtown Montreal

The best tacos in Montreal | Your ultimate guide of all taco joints in Montreal!

Everything need to know about the Singapore-Hong Kong Travel Bubble (Postponed, Latest Update November 24)

More stories.

Myanmar: Best hipster cafe in Yangon @ Rangoon Teahouse

• Britz Campervans
• Mighty Campers
• Maui New Zealand
• Roadbear RV Rentals
• El Monte RV
• Buy a Motorhome
• Self Check-In
• Online Check-in
• Contact Us 24/7
• Customer Care

Get Inspired

Popular Routes

Breathtaking Brisbane to Melbourne Road Trip Itinerary

When it comes to breathtaking road trips in Australia, we think a Brisbane to Melbourne road trip is up there with some of the best. This travel itinerary aims to showcase some of our favourite spots along the way, including the popular Byron Bay, Port Macquarie, Sydney and Jervis Bay. The Brisbane to Melbourne drive will be a wonderful opportunity to see some incredible Australian towns, and discover some hidden gems along the way, all that are sure to shape what will be an unforgettable adventure.

There are so many things to do in Australia, and with such great Australian weather, a  road trip in a travel van is our go-to way to see the sights, especially a maui campervan or motorhome. You’ll have the ease and comfort of your  accommodation on wheels, as well as be able to enjoy the trip on your own time. So read on, get inspired, and start exploring Australia!

Brisbane to Melbourne

Best Time of the Year

Any time of year

• Sky point observation desk
• Springbrook National Park
• Koala Hospital
• Nobby's Beach
• Sydney Opera House
• Bondi Beach

The Journey

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Day 1 Brisbane to Gold Coast

Distance 77km - driving time 1 hour 7 minutes.

Day one of the road trip starts off at the maui  Brisbane branch , which is conveniently located close to the airport and transport options. Once you’ve picked up your campervan, you can then hit the road and start your journey south.

The first destination on the road trip itinerary planner is the Gold Coast, and along the way there is one stop that we love to detour to. The  Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible sanctuary that offers a chance to get up close and personal with Australia's unique wildlife. From cuddly koalas to colourful lorikeets, you'll have a blast exploring their natural habitats!

Once you arrive on the  Gold Coast , get ready for some serious fun in the sun. The golden beaches are perfect for soaking up the rays or taking a refreshing dip in the sparkling ocean. You can take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Esplanade, then stop in at one of the popular eateries for a bite to eat, before exploring the boutique shops. For a breathtaking view of the coastline, head to the  SkyPoint Observation Deck. It's the tallest building in Queensland, and from there, you can admire panoramic vistas of the stunning Gold Coast skyline!

When it's time to settle in for the night, we love staying at the  BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park . With its fantastic powered camping sites, great campsite facilities, and a central location, it's the perfect basecamp for your Gold Coast adventure.

Day 2 Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Distance 92km - driving time 1 hour 13 minutes.

The van travel road trip continues and next stop is the popular coastal town of  Byron Bay . Along the way, a detour and visit to the breathtaking Springbrook National Park is always a wonderful idea. This stunning natural wonderland is home to lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and incredible views. When here, don’t miss the chance to explore the famous  Natural Bridge and its illuminated glow worms!

Once you arrive in  Byron Bay , get ready to kick back and relax on its world-renowned beaches. Whether you're a surfer or just looking to soak up the sun, the beaches here have something for everyone. Make sure to visit the iconic  Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to spot dolphins or migrating whales. To get a taste of the local culture, explore the vibrant  markets in Byron Bay. You'll find an array of handmade crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food on offer.

Then, after a day of adventure, unwind at  First Sun Holiday Park , which offers lovely campsites and is conveniently located near the beach and town centre.

Image: Destination NSW

Day 3 Byron Bay to Coffs Harbour

Distance 231km - driving time 2 hours 22 minutes.

Heading further south on the road trip will have you at the town of  Coffs Harbour . This is a slightly longer drive with some great stops to visit along the way. One of them is the unique and bohemian town of  Nimbin . Known for its alternative lifestyle and vibrant arts scene, Nimbin offers a colourful experience with its hippie vibe and quirky shops. It's definitely worth a visit to soak in the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts!

Once you arrive in Coffs Harbour, there are two attractions that stand out. The  Big Banana amusement park is a must-visit, offering fun activities like mini-golf, water slides, and a thrilling toboggan ride. For those interested in marine life, the  Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is a fantastic choice. You can get up close and personal with dolphins, seals, and even penguins!

When it's time to rest your head, we love to stay at the  BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park . With its convenient location near the beach and excellent facilities on offer, it's the perfect place to unwind as you enjoy your time in Coffs Harbour.

Day 4 Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie

Distance 160km - driving time 1 hours 43 minutes.

The next stop on this Brisbane to Melbourne road trip is the town of Port Macquarie. Of course, there are some great places to see along the way, including the picturesque  Bellingen Valley . Known for its charming village atmosphere, art galleries, and cafes, we’re sure you’ll love breaking up the drive here! Another interesting stop is the historical  Trial Bay Gaol , where you can learn about its fascinating past and enjoy stunning coastal views.

Once you reach  Port Macquarie , be sure to take some time to relax on its beautiful beaches. Whether you're looking for a spot to soak up the sun or catch some waves, Port Macquarie has you covered. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the  Koala Hospital , where you can see these adorable creatures up close and learn about their conservation efforts.

When it comes to places to park your maui camper, staying at the  NRMA Port Macquarie Holiday Par k is one of our go-to’s. With great campsites and facilities, it promises a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Day 5 Port Macquarie to Newcastle

Distance 77km - driving time 2 hours 49 minutes.

The road trip continues south, and the next stop on the adventure is the seaside town of Newcastle. Along the way, make sure to include a stop at the breathtaking  Myall Lakes National Park . This stunning park is a nature lover's paradise, with pristine lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic trails, enjoy a picnic by the water, or simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Once you arrive in  Newcastle , get ready to indulge in its vibrant food and art scene. Treat your taste buds to a range of culinary delights at the city's trendy cafes and restaurants. Art enthusiasts can explore the numerous galleries and street art displays that adorn the city's laneways. If you're a beach lover, Newcastle won't disappoint. Head to one of the many beautiful beaches, such as  Nobby's Beach or  Merewether Beach , and soak up the sun or catch some waves. Then, for a dose of history and culture, visit the  Newcastle Museum , where you can learn about the region's rich heritage and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits.

We love to stay at the  BIG4 Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach when in the area. This family-friendly holiday park is conveniently located near the beach and has great campsites, perfect for your maui camper.

Day 6 Newcastle to Central Coast

Distance 106km - driving time 1 hour 22 minutes.

Next up on the road trip adventure is the  Central Coast ! To break up the drive we suggest stopping in at  Lake Macquarie to take in the spectacular lake views, enjoy a picnic lunch and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive on the  Central Coast , get ready to unwind on the pristine beaches that dot the coastline. Whether you're into swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the sand, there's a beach for everyone's taste. For nature enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to explore  Bouddi National Park . With its stunning coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush rainforest, it's a haven for outdoor lovers. There are hiking trails and lookout points to discover, providing breathtaking views that are sure to leave you in awe.

When it's time to camp up for the night, we love staying at  NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort . It offers comfortable campsites, a range of amenities, and a convenient location near the beach, making it an ideal base for your Central Coast adventure.

Day 7 Central Coast to Sydney

Distance 89km - driving time 1 hour 17 minutes.

 From the Central Coast it’s then onto the vibrant city of Sydney. There is a must-visit destination along the way which is the breathtaking  Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park . This beautiful  park is a hidden gem, offering stunning landscapes, scenic walking trails, and an abundance of wildlife. Take a break from the road, immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Once you arrive in  Sydney , get ready to experience the city's iconic landmarks. Take a stroll around the  Sydney Opera House , a world-renowned architectural masterpiece. Don't forget to snap some photos of the majestic  Harbour Bridge , which offers breathtaking views of the city. And of course, a visit to Sydney wouldn't be complete without spending some time at the famous  Bondi Beach . Enjoy the sun, surf, and vibrant atmosphere!

A stay at  NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park will be the perfect addition to your time in Sydney. With beautiful lake views, modern amenities, grassy campsites and close proximity to cafes and beaches, this promises to be a great stay when in Sydney.

Day 8 Sydney to Jervis Bay

Distance 195km - driving time 2 hours 46 minutes.

 Next up on the road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne is the coastal town of Jervis Bay. Along the way, make sure to stop at the famous  Kiama Blowhole . This natural wonder never fails to impress with its powerful spurts of water shooting up from the rocks. It's a great spot for a quick photo opportunity, as well as a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic lunch or takeaway fish and chips.

Once you arrive in  Jervis Bay , get ready to soak up some sun on its pristine beaches. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, white sands, these beaches are simply breathtaking. If you're visiting between May and November, don't miss the opportunity to go  whale watching . These majestic creatures migrate along the coast, and Jervis Bay offers excellent vantage points to witness their awe-inspiring displays. For nature lovers, a visit to Booderee National Park is a must. Here you can explore its diverse ecosystems, take bush walks to spot native wildlife, or simply relax in the tranquillity of nature.

When it's time to park up for the night, we like to stay at  Jervis Bay Holiday Park . It offers great campsites and campsite facilities, as well as a central location.

Day 9 Jervis Bay to Batemans Bay

Distance 113km - driving time 1 hour 30 minutes.

From Jervis Bay, it’s then onto  Batemans Bay ! To break up the drive we love to stop in at the picturesque  Murramarang National Park . This stunning coastal park offers breathtaking views, pristine beaches, and lush bushland to explore. Take a leisurely walk along the park's trails, keeping an eye out for native wildlife and colorful bird species.

Once you arrive in Batemans Bay, there's plenty to keep you entertained. Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with ample opportunities to cast a line and reel in some fresh catches. If you prefer being on the water, consider renting a boat and enjoying a leisurely cruise along the bay. For animal lovers, a visit to the  Mogo Zoo is a must. This privately-owned zoo is home to a wide variety of exotic animals, including lions, giraffes, and meerkats. You can even book close encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences for a truly memorable visit.

When it's time to camp up for the evening, the  NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort offers comfortable campsites right on the beach. Enjoy the ocean views, relax by the pool, or take advantage of the resort's facilities and activities.

Day 10 Batemans Bay to Merimbula

Distance 175km - driving time 2 hours 13 minutes.

Continuing south of the road trip will have you at the town of Merimbula. To break up the drive we love to stop in at the charming coastal town of Narooma . While here you can stretch your legs and take a stroll along the stunning coastline, soak in the scenic views from the Narooma Golf Club, or visit the famous Australia Rock formation. Another great place to stop in is the  Mimosa Rocks National Park . This picturesque park boasts beautiful beaches, stunning headlands, and peaceful picnic spots. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic and connect with nature.

Once you arrive in  Merimbula , there's plenty to do for every type of traveller. Make the most of the beautiful beaches, where you can relax, swim, or try your hand at surfing. If you're into fishing or kayaking, the Merimbula Lake offers great opportunities. And don't miss the chance to visit the Merimbula Aquarium , where you can explore an array of fascinating marine life.

For accommodation for you and your maui camper, a stay at the  NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort won’t disappoint. They offer great campsites, family-friendly facilities, and a convenient location close to the beach.

Image: Visit Victoria

Day 11 Merimbula to Lakes Entrance

Distance 267km - driving time 3 hours 10 minutes.

After what is sure to be a lovely time in Merimbula, it’s then onto the next destination, Lakes Entrance. Along the way we suggest stopping off and exploring the stunning  Croajingolong National Park . This hidden gem is a nature lover's paradise, with its pristine beaches, rugged coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Take a leisurely hike through the park's scenic trails, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views with a picnic lunch from your maui camper.

Once you arrive in  Lakes Entrance , there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Enjoy the tranquil lakes that give the town its name, and indulge in fishing, boating, or even a relaxing cruise. For beach enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to explore the iconic  Ninety Mile Beach , where you can stroll along its endless stretch of golden sands.

When it's time to unwind, settle in at  BIG4 Whiters Holiday Village for a comfortable stay. With its great campsites and fantastic amenities, including pools, playgrounds, and BBQ facilities, it's the perfect base to recharge and make the most of time in Lakes Entrance.

Day 12 Lakes Entrance to Melbourne

Distance 319km - driving time 4 hours.

The final destination of this great Australian road trip is, of course, the city of  Melbourne . Along the way, we highly recommend taking a detour to visit Wilsons Promontory National Park . This stunning coastal park boasts pristine beaches, breathtaking hikes, and abundant wildlife that will amaze and delight at every turn.

Once you arrive in  Melbourne , there's plenty to see and do for every type of traveller. Along with the many popular cafes, eateries and restaurants, there are some great activities to enjoy. Make sure to visit the iconic  Royal Botanic Gardens , where you can wander through beautiful landscapes and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. If you're up for a scenic adventure, consider driving along the world-famous  Great Ocean Road , which offers breathtaking coastal views.

You’re going to want to spend a night or two in Melbourne to experience as much as possible, so we suggest checking into the  BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park . With great campsites and modern amenities, it will be the perfect base for your time in Melbourne.

When it's time to return your maui camper, you can drop it off at the conveniently located maui  Melbourne branch , where the friendly staff will be ready to welcome you and ensure a hassle-free end to your road trip.

Want to try this road trip itinerary? (H2)

So there you have it, our guide to a breathtaking Brisbane to Melbourne road trip that we think you’re going to absolutely love. Of course, there are so many more incredible places to see along the way, as well as things to do, but we hope that this road trip travel itinerary will make your holiday planning all the easier.

If you’re ready to get out there and start exploring Australia, be sure to head  online or into a maui  branch to book your camper today!

Motorhome Hire Australia

International Numbers

• Australia 1 800 827 821 Call
• New Zealand 0 ​800 688 558 Call
• UK 00 800 200 80 801 Call
• Germany 00 800 200 80 801 Call
• France 00 800 200 80 801 Call
• Netherlands 00 800 200 80 801 Call
• Switzerland 00 800 200 80 801 Call
• Canada 011 800 200 80 801 Call
• USA (from landline only) 011 800 200 80 801 Call
• View our contact page

3 weeks Brisbane to Melbourne road trip itinerary

3 girls, 3 weeks and the dream of the road trip of a lifetime.That was all we had when me and two of my best friends decided to travel along Australia’s east coast in a campervan. 

After choosing the route from Brisbane to Melbourne, the only thing we still needed was a van to sleep in and that’s when we luckily got in touch with t ravellersautobarn . Since we were three people we needed one of the bigger cars and finally went with the Kuga. Fully equipped with everything you could possibly need for living on the road we started our trip. To be honest, the first few nights were quite nerve recking, but after some days we really got used to the camping lifestyle. We had enough space for the three of us and the flexibility you’ve got when you can technically sleep anywhere you want to is just awesome. 

But now let’s talk about the roadtrip itinerary itself. The actual reason we started in Brisbane was that I had lived there for the previous 4 months and it’s where I finished work a few days before the trip. So the next question was if we wanted to drive up or down the coast. The further north you go, the more likely you are to get rainy and stormy weather in the summer months, so we decided to go for the other option. Nevertheless, we didn’t want to miss the Whitsundays so we just did this trip before getting our van (detailed review is about to follow). For the remaining 20 days the distance between Brisbane and Melbourne seemed perfect to have enough time to explore all the beautiful places along the way. And that’s it. We had our plan and were ready to start the probably most exciting trip of our lives. 

So here you go. I tried to remember where we went and what we did every single day and listed it for you. Maybe this can be helpful if you’re dreaming of roadtripping Australia as well. Go for it and let me know if you still have questions about our life on the road. 

Day 1 

Brisbane – Noosa – Rainbow Beach (3h)

• Noosa National Park – make sure to go for a short hike and check out the fairy pools

• Carlo Sandblow – go there at sunset for amazing views and photo oppertunities (see previous blogposts)

Day 2 – Day 3

Fraser Island

• Cool Dingo Tours – real camping adventure

Rainbow Beach – Sunshine Coast (2h)

• overnight Dicky Beach Family Holiday Park

• Point Arkwright – beach views

• Glass House Mountains – Mt Ngungun

Sunshine Coast – Byron Bay (3h30)

• Free Camping Highway (Area De Descanso)

•town center – cute hipster shops and cafes everywhere

•Byron Bay Lighthouse

Byron Bay – Coffs Harbour – Nambucca Hds (3h30)

• Killen Falls 

• Coffs Harbour Jetty – awesome barbecue facilities, beautiful at sunset

Nambucca – Port Macquarie – Nelsons Bay (4h)

• Shelly Beach

• Tomaree Mountain – at sunset – lesser known, but one of my favorite stops along the way

Nelsons Bay – Newcastle (1h30)

• Surfing Anna Bay – cheap surf board hire in tow

• Stockton Sand Dunes

Newcastle – Sydney (2h)

• Camping near Sydney: lane cove tourist park

• possible stop at central coast

• Shopping and Orientation Sydney CBD

Day 10 – Day 12

• Harbour Bridge, Opera House etc.

• Botanical Gardens – beautiful photo locations

• Bondi to Cogee Walk

• Grounds of Alexandria

Sydney – Manly – Blue Mountains (2h30)

• Blue Mountains free rest area (Old Ford Reserve)

• Manly Beach Front Market and Surf Festival

Blue Mountains – Jervis Bay (3h)

• Rest Area Highway

• Three Sister – lots of walks around the area

• Hyams Beach – whitest sand in Australia

• we went to the movies because it was raining all day 

Jervis Bay – Eden (3h)

• Eden Main Beach

Eden – Wilsons Promotory (5h)

• camping at Shallow Inlet Campground

• endless roads – outback feeling

Wilsons Promotory – Lorne (4h)

•camping Big Hill Campground

•Sunrise Hike Mt Oberon

•lots of wild kangaroos

•Cape Otway Lighthouse

Lorne – Great Ocean Road – Grampians (3h30)

• camping at Green Hill Lake

• Apollo Bay (make sure to check out the wild birds and koalas in the park nearby)

• Erskine Falls 

• 12 Apostels

Grampians – Melbourne (3h)

• camping at Avalon Highway Rest Area

• Balconies

• Mackenzie Falls

Day 20 – Day 21

• Shrine of Remembrance

• Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes

IMPRESSUM | DATENSCHUTZ | AGB

COPYRIGHTS ©GRETACAPTURES 2020

Road Trip from Melbourne to Brisbane

Take a trip from Melbourne to the sunny coastal city of Brisbane and discover beautiful Queensland along the way. You will see iconic cities, including Australia's capital, admire the coastal views and drive through some of the most popular wine-producing areas on the way.

The 2,000 km road trip from Melbourne to Brisbane will take 22 hours and 40 minutes to drive. You will get the opportunity to see Boorowa, Orange, Paynesville, Canberra, Byron Bay, Sydney, Morwell River Falls Reserve and Woomargama National Park.

We have developed two great and unique routes for you to choose from. One of these stays inland, while the other explores the coast. Keep reading to find out all the details of these two routes, which will help with making the tough decision of which one to choose!

How far is Brisbane from Melbourne, and how long will the road trip take?

The NSW Vineyards Route covers 2,000 km and this inland route will take you 22 hours and 40 minutes to complete, not accounting for any stops or detours.

Slightly longer, our Coastal Route alternative will take you 23 hours and 50 minutes to drive, covering 2,070 km.

As both of our routes cover similar distances, we recommend 6 -7 days to complete them. This will give you a good amount of time for brief stops to enjoy the scenery as well as some well-deserved overnight stops to immerse yourself in one place.

Best road trip route from Melbourne to Brisbane

The NSW Vineyard Route is our slightly shorter, more direct route that takes you to smaller inland cities such as Boorowa, Orange and Mudgee. All of which are known for their rich wine culture and delicious dining options.

You also get to visit the historic city of Canberra, Australia's capital as well as the opportunity to visit a few national Parks, including Wollemi National Park, Pilliga Nature Reserve, Goulburn River National Park, and Namadgi National Park.

If you fancy a slightly longer but incredibly scenic route, consider our Coastal Route. It will take you on a leisurely drive along Australia's southeastern coast, with its myriad of coastal towns and beaches to stop at along the way.

You'll see the city of Paynesville, known as this region's boating capital and Sydney, Australia's most well-known city. It boasts tons of cultural activities and world-renowned architecture and is a great option for an overnight stop. You can also enjoy the stunning beaches of Byron Bay and the Gold Coast as you drive along.

If you can't choose between the routes, why not combine them? Take the NSW Vineyards route to Brisbane and the Coastal Route on the return journey. Then you get the best of both worlds!

The NSW Vineyards Route

Get onto Hume Highway M31, heading northeast out of Melbourne. Continue on M31 until you reach the intersection with A25. Take A25 south to Canberra. From Canberra, get back on A25, heading north this time.

Head towards Boorowa and then north to Orange. Continue north, before heading east and then south, to Mudgee.

Upon leaving Mudgee, head back north before turning east onto B56 to start the last leg of your drive to Brisbane. You'll pass by Goulburn River National Park on your right which offers a great spot to have a wander or a swim.

You will soon reach Barraba and Bingara. Turn your heading towards the coast and Brisbane. Before arriving in Brisbane, consider a stop off to walk the Governors Chair lookout track which offers some spectacular views over Lake Moogerah and Main Range in Main Range National Park.

The Coastal Route

This route starts by heading southeast out of Melbourne, hugging the coast all the way to Paynesville. From here, continue along the coast, passing Croajingolong National Park on your right.

You'll follow Highway A1 / M1 along the sea, passing through Batemans Bay and Wollongong before you arrive in Sydney.

Going north out of Sydney, keep Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to your right, between you and the sea. Follow the M1 north, past Yengo National Park on your left, and Newcastle on your right.

This last part of your drive is pretty simple, follow the A1 north, through Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, before arriving at Brisbane. There are numerous national parks and beaches along this stretch, which are worth a stop to get some exercise or to enjoy the views.

Best places to stop between Melbourne and Brisbane

With impressive driving times required, a couple of overnight stops are essential to really enjoy either of these routes. Here are a few of our top choices to make your decision easier.

Check out the Capital City of Canberra

About one-third of the way through your road trip, you'll drive through Canberra on the NSW Vineyards Route, making it a great natural overnight stop. You get the best of both worlds here as awe-inspiring mountain ranges and stunning natural reserves are located just outside the city.

One of the best ways to see the city is to visit Lake Burley Griffin. The area that surrounds this central lake is dotted with museums, galleries, restaurants, cafes and parks, as well as cycling and walking paths. It is the perfect starting point for exploring the city.

If you appreciate art, check out the National Gallery of Australia. For the political and architectural connoisseurs, have a look at Parliament House. Located in Downtown Canberra, Australia's parliament is an impressive building with a contemporary architectural style.

There are many beautiful places to stay in Canberra, but A by Adina Canberra is our top pick . It is centrally located, with tons of amenities including several on-site restaurants and bars.

It is a simply stunning hotel, with a refined yet distinctive colour palette and superior attention to detail in its decoration. Its ultra-modern facade continues indoors through its reception and into its bedrooms.

The property is also centrally located, close to many of the city's most interesting attractions including the National Museum of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, the Old Parliament House and Telstra Tower.

Soak up Sydney

About halfway through the Coastal Route is Sydney. A famous, bustling city offering countless opportunities for exciting adventures and cultural experiences. It's the perfect overnight stop as you can enjoy a big city and discover lively arts and nightlife scenes.

Some of Australia's well-known attractions can be found in Sydney. Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon, The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre, found in Sydney Harbour.

Bondi Beach is another worthwhile visit. A busy and historic beach, it is easily reachable from Sydney's centre via public transport and is known for the stylish cafes, hip bars and boutique shops that surround it.

The Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is a luxurious hotel offering stunning views of the Sydney skyline . They make the most of the views with a rooftop infinity pool and a rooftop bar, which is the perfect place for a nice drink before dinner at the onsite contemporary restaurant.

It also has an excellent location, being close to several iconic Sydney attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Even though it is centrally located in Darling Harbour, it offers some welcome distance from Sydney's busy downtown.

There is still plenty to see and do with the Powerhouse Museum, the Australian Museum, the Sydney Mint, the Museum of Sydney, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Sydney Observatory all close by.

Where to stay when you reach Brisbane

Directly opposite the Botanic Gardens is the Royal On The Park hotel . Offering luxury on a budget, this hotel is perfect for a longer stay. It is only a few minutes' walk to the Central Business District as well as the Queen Street Mall.

There are dining options on-site, as well as some delicious restaurants nearby. A pool and fitness centre are also available onsite.

This stylish hotel makes you feel comfortable as soon as you walk in the door with its dark wood and plush interiors. This is mirrored in each room, where the crisp white bed linen is accented by deep colours to enhance the feeling of elegance and luxury.

Things to see on a road trip from Melbourne to Brisbane

From temples to national parks and from fairy caves to lighthouses, we have pulled together the ultimate list of what to see and do during your road trip.

• The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion - Designed to replicate a 15th century Tibetan temple, this massive Buddhist temple is almost 50 metres high, offering group tours of its interior and surrounding gardens. It adds about two hours to this route but worth it if you'd like to know more about this ancient religion and way of life
• Mansfield Zoo -This massive 30-acre zoo boasts over 100 native and exotic animals, which you can feed and interact with
• Ned Kelly Museum and Homestead - Learn about the life of famous Australian bushranger and outlaw Ned Kelly at this unique museum and homestead
• Tallangatta - About an hour off route, this spot is the ideal place to take in the beauty of the Tallangatta township complete with a serene lake and rolling hills in the background
• Woomargama National Park - Stretch the legs and explore the beauty of Australia's forest lands at this national park, about thirty minutes off your route
• The Big Merino - take in this large statue of a ram, a monument to Australia's wood industry and just a few minutes outside of Canberra
• Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum - Housed in the building of a 19th century school, this museum is renowned for its fossil, mineral and dinosaur skeleton collection
• Yelarbon Silo Art - This region of Australia is home to lots of unique artworks painted directly onto silos; check out australiansiloarttrail.com to find more silos on your route!
• Cobb+Co Museum - Located in Toowoomba, the Cobb+Co Museum is home to Australia's national horse-drawn carriage collection
• Laneway Street Art Crawl - Stop by Toowoomba and follow the Laneway Street Art Crawl, where you can admire colourful graffiti by local artists

• Coal Creek Community Park and Museum - Discover this recreated coal mining village just outside of Melbourne dedicated to depicting the history of Korumburra
• Morwell River Falls Reserve – Take a walk through this tranquil park about an hour off route, where you'll find stunning falls that provide a great photo opportunity
• Agnes Falls - These famous falls are complete with a viewing area, where you can take in their majestic rushing waters from a safe distance
• Tarra-Bulga National Park - A protected rainforest complete with walking tracks, waterfalls and wooden bridges, this national park is worth the 2-hour detour
• Fairy Cave - Tour these illuminated caves, full of stalactite and stalagmite formations that are sure to enchant you
• Green Cape Lighthouse - This unique octagonal lighthouse is made entirely out of concrete and dates back to the 1800s
• Morton National Park - Take a break from the drive with a walk through Morton National Park, which features beautiful mountains, deep river canyons and massive waterfalls
• Mount Barney National Park – This stunning national park features picture-perfect caves, rockpools, valleys and woodland forests.
• Scenic Rim Adventure Park – This adventure park is an impressive 680-acre property that features a host of activities that'll be sure to get your adrenaline flowing. These include mountain biking, walking trails, four-wheel driving and several mazes.
• Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk – Take a break and enjoy this hour-long walk, which features a stop at the Rainforest Eco Gallery.
• Mountview Alpaca Farm - located just a few minutes' drive from Canungra, you'll be able to interact with and feed these docile and playful animals!

Best time to go on a road trip from Melbourne to Brisbane

Brisbane is truly a year-round destination due to its relatively sunny weather all year. There are tons of activities to enjoy both indoors and outdoors.

Temperatures during the summer range between 20-25 degrees Celsius. This season is known to be quite muggy and hot, but some of this heaviness is relieved by the proximity of the ocean. The Woodford Folk Festival also falls within summer, running from December to January.

Winter in Brisbane typically falls between May and August, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. This season is typically less rainy than the summer, and you can expect slightly lower hotel rates as there are fewer tourists during this time.

There are plenty of activities going on during Winter including the Scenic Rim Adventure Festival (May), Regional Flavours (May), Brisbane Marathon Festival (June) and Rim Eat Local Week (June-July).

Spring and Autumn are both wonderful times to visit Brisbane; Autumn weather ranges between 10 and 27 degrees Celsius, while Spring weather tends to be just slightly higher than that.

This is a great time to visit Brisbane as there are fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation options! The BIGSOUND Music festival is also in September.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• New Zealand

Melbourne to Brisbane: The Ultimate Aussie Road Trip

My Melbourne to Brisbane Road Trip Itinerary

After living in Melbourne for 5 months I really couldn’t wait to get on the road and see even more of the fantastic country that is Australia – with a Melbourne to Brisbane Road Trip Itinerary.

I knew there was so much out there to see and experience. I was buzzing on the morning we left Melbourne, with the sun shining and I certainly had the familiar excitement and butterflies I felt just before my cousin, Jack and I left the UK to start our year-long backpacking adventure. This was a brand new chapter. Jack and I were travelling the East Coast with Jessie, from London, who is also on a year long working holiday visa. Her sister Annie flew out from England to join us too! 

Equipped with our Melbourne to Brisbane Road Trip Itinerary, we picked up our bright green and purple campervan (which we named Melvin)/ We loaded our backpacks into the back and headed on the first part of our Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary, the famous Great Ocean Road . We were all so excited for this beautiful Melbourne to Brisbane coastal drive!  After relying on Melbourne’s very reliable public transport, it was still great to have the freedom of a car (or in this case, a big camper resembling something out of a cartoon). We stocked up on the essential pasta, tomato sauce, beer and cider and off we went.

We drove through Torquay , the famous surfing town and then reached our first overnight stop – Lorne , a beautiful little town near Geelong. We drove slightly inland to Erskine Falls, a rainforest area with a beautiful waterfall. Such serene surroundings. I’m glad I have photos to convey even half of how beautiful this place and others truly are – as I’ve discovered many times, words simply do not do these places justice.

We stayed at a lovely campsite, and despite the weather being persistently cold and damp, we enjoyed our expertly cooked pasta and tomato sauce and kept warm inside the camper with a hot chocolate. As night fell, I was once again in awe of the starry night sky just as I was when we camped in America at the start of our travels. It takes my breath away each time. Camping under the stars is a truly special experience and one I will remember with fondness from our time travelling.

We woke the next day to the loud sound of the many cockatoos which lived in the surrounding woodland. They were very tame and approached us, showing off their bright feathers on top of their heads.

I did a lot more driving on the second day, and driving the mountainous and green landscape of the Great Ocean Road is something I will never forget. The winding roads sat beside an endless stretch of beautiful golden beaches. We reached the famous 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, which were as incredible as I had imagined. The weather, again, wasn’t great but nevertheless, we were all able to admire the incredible natural creations. The sea was choppy and crashed against the rocks; these sounds really added to the special atmosphere. We also visited Thunder Cave, which actually created sounds like thunder when the waves crashed into it.

We camped near the 12 Apostles in Princetown, and we were surrounded by wild kangaroos which were also very tame just like the cockatoos back in Lorne. The lack of light and the presence of the kangaroos made night-time toilet visits interesting, I didn’t really fancy getting into a boxing match with one!

So following this, it was time for some more emotional goodbyes back in Melbourne as we went out for drinks in St Kilda at a bar appropriately named ‘The Vineyard’. It was great to go back and say a proper goodbye to people and the city.

The next step in our Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary was Mallacoota, a beautiful beach town on the Eastern edge of Victoria. We arrived late after a 7 hour drive, so it was special to wake early the next day to one of the most beautiful sunrises I have ever seen. It rose over the lake and mountains and really was an unforgettable sight. The orange and yellow hues provided a great photo moment. Not something that 

We then moved on to Jervis Bay , another incredible Australian beach area a few hours south of Sydney. We stayed in Booderee National Park and it was great to be in the rainforest surroundings, with much wildlife wandering around overnight. We saw possums which were very friendly, and also many huge spiders which weren’t quite as cute! Waking up to the lush greenery and fresh air was wonderful and I was also lucky to see a kangaroo and its young Joey after my morning run on the untouched white beach after another impressive sunrise.

Following this we drove to Wollongong , where I participated in one of the best things I have ever done. That might sound clichéd but it is true! It’s hard to find the words to convey how certain experiences make me feel and my first skydive is certainly one of them. The feeling as we drove to the airport and boarded the plane is something I will hold with me for a long time. The loud sound of the plane engines starting up added to the feeling of how real this truly was. I had imagined my first skydive for a long time and the day was actually here.

The 8 divers in the plane were all sat in a row, each paired with their dive companion. We were all sharing a mixture of emotions; excitement, anticipation, anxiousness, pure adrenaline! We climbed over the Wollongong coast and admired the views before our eyes. Just like a postcard. I knew I would be down on the ground soon enough, but I wouldn’t be stepping off the plane steps. I would be jumping out. Diving and free-falling at 200 kilometres per hour.

Once we did reach the jump point, the door slid up and the sound of the wind hit my ears. Wow. This was it. No going back now. I was shocked at how quickly each diver left the plane. Out of the door… 1, 2, 3. Before I knew it, it was my turn.

I didn’t really have time to think as I approached the open door. And before I knew it I was flying through the air. What a feeling of complete ecstasy. The feeling of free-fall. The force of the wind against my face. The ultimate adrenaline rush. I was literally on top of the world. No feeling can beat it.

I felt like I was flying, and I suppose I was.

After about 45 seconds of free-fall, the parachute was released. Suddenly the speed of fall decreased, and we glided slowly above the breath-taking views before us. I was even able to steer the parachute. Whilst taking the views in, I was also reflecting on what had just happened. So crazy. So memorable. So special.

We landed on the ground and it was great to see Jack who had dived just before me. I knew he had just experienced the same feeling. It was special to share it together. It is something I will treasure forever. It is also something I will always encourage people to do. The feeling, the adrenaline, the buzz, the memories. Nothing can beat it!!! Or maybe a bungee jump can; I guess I’ll be finding that out soon enough…

Sydney was next on our list of stops and I couldn’t wait to see another famous Australian city after spending over 5 months in Melbourne. We stayed at a campsite just outside the city, with the main CBD a 20 minute train ride away. We arrived on a beautiful day which provided an excellent setting to view the famous Harbour and Opera House. Just as impressive as I had hoped and imagined! We had drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the Harbour and visited Bondi Beach the next day before venturing on a Bridge Climb over the Harbour Bridge; more great views of the famous landmark, with a lightening storm in the distance. Luckily we avoided the rain until the next day…

The Blue Mountains promised spectacular views on our next stop had it not been for the persistent rain which lasted for 48 hours from the time we left Sydney. Despite this, we all had a laugh and stayed warm in the campervan watching Finding Nemo, quite relevant after our visit to Sydney. It was a shame we were unable to see the great views but it is all part of the backpacking experience! I just looked on Google images instead!

I woke on the morning of my birthday in Central Coast and was very relieved/happy that the rain had cleared and the sun had made an appearance. I opened some presents from home over our camp breakfast and we then headed towards Port Macquarie, with a stop at the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park. We met many native Australian animals and I even got to hold a snake and a penguin! We then cooked up an Aussie BBQ including kangaroo burgers and enjoyed some beers. All in all, a memorable Aussie birthday!

We also enjoyed kayaking and paddle boarding at Settlement Point on an undisturbed tranquil river. It was such a relaxing and refreshing experience, we all soaked up the sun and drifted in the light breeze.

Coffs Harbour was next on the list, which boasted more incredible golden landscapes and breathtaking blue ocean waters. We had the unique experience of riding camels on this Aussie beach, and were even able to take selfies with the friendly animals. Such a special stop on this Melbourne to Brisbane coastal drive. 

The next location was probably my favourite during our East Coast adventure. I’d heard a lot about Byron Bay prior to our visit and listened to many glowing reviews of this famous chilled, hippie-like beach town. I couldn’t wait to see it for myself.

I certainly was not left disappointed. The atmosphere and feel of the place was as I had imagined. So chilled, relaxed and laid back. People were simply wearing flip flops and wandering the little shops and cafés in-between beach visits. And it indeed had a colourful hippie look throughout. It was filled with personality and individuality even compared to other Aussie towns and was, of course, filled with quirky and humorous Aussie residents, alongside many visitors who were in awe of the place just like myself.

We were lucky enough to experience another unique activity: kayaking with dolphins ! I was simply amazed by my surroundings. Simply stunning. The golden sand was paired with the light blue hue of the sky which met perfectly with the darker colours of the sea at the point of the horizon, as the golden sun shone down upon us. We floated in double kayaks and paddled on the ocean surface. This was enjoyable enough in itself, and low and behold, a beautiful dolphin dived out of the water in front of us. Magic.

We then ventured up to another iconic city, Brisbane, and stayed in our first hostel since landing in Australia. It was great to be in the hostel environment again. This was another impressive city, but of a slightly smaller scale to Melbourne and Sydney. We were in Brisbane less than 24 hours before we flew from the airport to start another stage of our adventure in New Zealand . After seeing the beautifully impressive, unmistakably stunning Australia with its different cities and towns boasting many unique personalities via our Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary, I can’t wait to explore its neighbouring country and see its beauty with my own eyes.

Commonly Asked Questions:

How many days does it take to drive from melbourne to brisbane .

The driving distance from Melbourne to Brisbane is approximately 1,680 kilometers (1,040 miles), and the driving time can vary depending on several factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and your route.

The quickest route via the inland highway, which goes through major cities like Albury, Wagga Wagga, and Dubbo, takes approximately 18 hours of driving time. If you plan on taking breaks or detours along the way, it is recommended to budget at least 2-3 days for the trip.

However, if you take the coastal route which passes through Sydney, it will add some extra distance to your journey but also provides some beautiful scenery along the way. This route could take around 20-22 hours of driving time, or 3-4 days if you want to take it at a more leisurely pace.

WANT TO SCORE A BONUS $50 EXPERIENCE VOUCHER?

BOOK A CAMPERVAN OR MOTORHOME DEAL TODAY!

Where to stop when driving melbourne to brisbane .

There are many interesting places to stop when driving from Melbourne to Brisbane, whether you take the inland or coastal route. Here are some popular options:

• Canberra: Australia’s capital city is located about halfway between Melbourne and Sydney and offers many cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and Parliament House.
• Sydney: If you take the coastal route, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Australia’s largest and most vibrant city. Famous landmarks such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge are must-sees, and the city offers plenty of dining and entertainment options.
• Port Macquarie: This coastal town is a popular stopover point with a range of activities, including beaches, national parks, and koala hospitals.
• Byron Bay: This trendy beach town is a favorite among surfers and hippies alike and is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and alternative lifestyle.
• Gold Coast: As you approach Brisbane, you may want to take a detour to the Gold Coast, Australia’s most famous beach resort. It offers a range of attractions, including theme parks, wildlife parks, and water sports.

These are just a few of the many great stops you can make on your Melbourne to Brisbane drive. There are plenty of other options, depending on your interests and how much time you have available.

What town is halfway between Melbourne and Brisbane? 

The town that is approximately halfway between Melbourne and Brisbane is Dubbo, which is located in central New South Wales. Dubbo is approximately 835 kilometers (518 miles) from both Melbourne and Brisbane and is situated on the Newell Highway, which is one of the main routes between the two cities.

Dubbo is a regional center and has a range of facilities, including accommodation, dining options, and attractions such as the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which is a popular family destination. The town is also located near several national parks, including the Warrumbungle National Park and the Mount Kaputar National Park, which offer stunning natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.

How much would it cost to drive to Brisbane from Melbourne? 

The cost of driving from Melbourne to Brisbane can vary depending on several factors such as the distance you cover, the type of car you have, fuel prices, and any accommodation or food expenses along the way. However, here is an estimate of the costs you may incur for a one-way trip:

• Fuel: Assuming an average fuel consumption of 10 litres per 100 kilometres, a one-way trip from Melbourne to Brisbane would require approximately 168 litres of fuel. If fuel prices are around $1.50 per litre, this would cost around $252 in fuel costs.
• Accommodation: If you plan on stopping overnight, you will need to budget for accommodation expenses. Prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, but budget options such as camping or backpacker hostels can cost around $20-30 per night, while mid-range hotels or motels may cost around $100-150 per night.
• Food: Food expenses will depend on your eating habits, but you can budget around $50-100 per day for meals and snacks.
• Tolls: If you take the toll roads, you will need to budget for toll fees. The total cost of tolls can vary depending on the route you take, but it could be around $50-60 for the entire trip.

So, in total, a one-way trip from Melbourne to Brisbane could cost around $500-800, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Helen Wright

You might also like, an idiot’s guide to where aussies can go this summer.

Borders are open (kinda) so where TF can I go???

Sydney to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary | East Coast Reefs and Beaches Tour 

Buckle up and get ready for an epic Australian adventure! The open road beckons on this thrilling road trip from...

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

{{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Learn More {{/message}}

{{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Learn More {{/message}}

Submitting…

Great travel photos from our bloggers

Melbourne to Brisbane

This epic road trip gives you the chance to see the best of what Australia as to offer from world famous beaches and wine countries, past a giant banana, the opera house and the home of the Australian Parliament. It’s designed for travellers who are planning to spend a couple of weeks on the road.

2100km trip distance

8 day roadtrip

Campervan recommended

Melbourne to Falls Creek

Approx drive time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 386 km

It’s time to leave the cool café culture, alleyways and hip bars of Melbourne behind, hire a campervan in Melbourne, fill it with supplies and snacks and hit the road. Head north on the M31 for the road trip adventure of a lifetime.

First stop Falls Creek, a resort town in northeastern Victoria. It’s known as an alpine and cross-country ski center. There are things to here all year round – from skiing in the winter to fishing, kayaking, mountain biking and hiking in the summer.

Falls Creek to Canberra

Approx drive time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Distance: 457 km

From one extreme to the other, leave the action packed adrenaline filled Falls Creek and head to Canberra, the nation’s capital and a cultural hotspot. Rest and recover in Canberra with a trip to Parliament House, the National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Australia – where you are guaranteed to some world-class exhibitions.   

Canberra to Sydney via the Southern Highlands

Approx drive time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Distance: 286 km

Hop back into the campervan and take the route north towards Sydney via the traditional country towns of Berrima, Bowral and Mittagong. Pull in for a coffee stop or lunch at one of the local restaurants.  

The Southern Highlands is also home to waterfalls and spectacular lookouts in national park wilderness. Visit Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park, hike in the Bangadilly National park or pull up the campervan and picnic for looking out over Kangaroo Valley. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for  wallabies, wombats, kangaroos and myriad bird species when you’re driving.

Sydney to Port Macquarie via Port Stephens

Approx drive time: 5 – 6 hours

Distance: 300 km

You’ll probably want to spend a couple of days exploring Sydney – there’s so much to see here. If you’re sticking to a budget then check out our guide on the best free things to do in Sydney here .

If you’re looking for places to park up your campervan for a couple of nights then here are some suggestions of places to stay .

When you’ve had your fill of the city and are craving some time at the beach then hit the road and head North. A couple of hours of driving will take you to the Central Coast, home to some great beaches such as Ettalong Beach, Avoca Beach, Terrigal Beach and Forresters.

Break up this leg of the trip by spending the night at Port Stephens. There are heaps of campsites around this area, as well as coffee shops and places to pick up supplies.

Port Macquarie is a beautiful coastal destination known for its beaches and wildlife. If you’re stopping here then make sure you visit Lighthouse Beach, Sea Acres National Park and one of the many classic Aussie cafés for a great flat white.

Port Macquarie to Byron via Coffs Harbour

Approx drive time: 4 hour 45 minutes

Distance: 380 km

From Port Macquarie you’re going to make your way to Coffs Harbour, another great place to stop and hang out at the beach. Try; Gallows, Park Beach, Sapphire, Emerald and Sawtell Beach. Other things to do in and around Coffs Harbour include; the Forest Sky Pier, Coffs Harbour Butterfly House, a segway tour or kayaking.

Head to the famous Byron Bay via the laid back beach towns of Yamba and Grafton. Spend a day or two here, soaking up the chilled out vibes and Aussie beach culture. Byron is a great spot for surfing, café culture and finding some zen with a few yoga classes.

Byron to Brisbane

Approx drive time: 2 hours

Distance: 160 km

When you’re feeling suitably relaxed complete the final leg of your trip by driving from Byron to Brisbane, get onto the M1. If you aren’t ready to let go of the beach then make a quick detour to other great beaches on the Gold Coast.

For more ideas on free things to do while you’re in Brisbane read our top tips here.

Sales and rentals

To hire a campervan in Melbourne or Brisbane speak to the Travellers Autobarn Team, or get a free quote online today.

If you want to read more of our Brisbane adventures, come and explore the dedicated Melbourne Road Trips . Happy Exploring!

Our Travel Guides

Guide to free camping in australia, guide to buying a campervan, guide to budget camping in australia, guide to family camping in australia, guide to camping in australia, guide to western australian road trips, best east coast road trips in australia, beginner's guide to travelling around oz, best road trips in australia, guide to backpacking in australia, find your nearest travellers autobarn location, other road trip itineraries.

14-Day Brisbane to Dubbo Road Trip

14-Day Brisbane to Adelaide Road Trip

7-Day Alice Springs to Uluru Road Trip Loop

Sydney to Byron Bay Road Trip

10 Day Cairns to Gold Coast Road Trip

Darwin to Melbourne Road Trip

7-Day Sydney to Gold Coast Road Trip

Perth to Melbourne

14-Day Brisbane to Canberra Road Trip

Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip

Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary

Brisbane to Byron Bay Road Trip

Our campervans.

Chubby Camper

Seats 2 • sleeps 2.

Kuga Campervan

Seats 2-3 • sleeps 2-3.

Hi-5 Campervan

Seats 2-5 • sleeps 2-5.

Solar panel

Hi-Top Campervan

Stationwagon

External Table

Sign up for special deals and awesome road trip itineraries!

Data collection policy.

Destination:

The Best Melbourne to Brisbane Road Trip Itinerary

About the author: sammy.

Updated on: 23 February 2024

Published on: 25 October 2023

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Ready for a trip of a lifetime? Embark on the ultimate Melbourne to Brisbane road trip with our complete guide.

As you can probably tell, we love a good Aussie road trip. Especially when it involves the two grand cities of Melbourne and Brisbane.

But with so much to see along the way, knowing where to start can leave you in a right pickle. 

That’s where this handy guide comes in. We’ve created a complete itinerary for an unforgettable Melbourne to Brisbane road trip . 

So without further ado, let’s get this show on the road.

What’s the Melbourne to Brisbane road trip distance?

The Melbourne to Brisbane road trip distance covers a whopping 1,776km of Australian roads. In UK terms, that eclipses a trip from the tip of Scotland to the southern coast of England! 

Yep. Door-to-door, we’re talking a good nineteen hours of solid driving.

Sound a bit long? We don’t think so…

Rather than dwell on the distance, we can just make a road trip out of it instead. A breezy campervan cruise is the best way to break up this lengthy journey by stopping at a few epic destinations en route. 

Luckily for you, southeast Aus is jam-packed with some beautiful places just waiting to be discovered. 

Click images to see more.

What’s the ideal time needed for a Melbourne to Brisbane road trip?

Now that you know how far you’ll need to trek, it’s time to decide how long to set aside to maximise your road trip potential. 

If you’re on a time crunch, you can reach your destination in just a couple of days. However, we recommend taking the time to really enjoy the journey. 

After all, a road trip ain’t just about the destination, but also the memories you make along the way! 

We reckon the sweet spot for this road trip is around five days. Spreading the trip like this means you won’t have to average more than four hours of driving each day, and you’ll get the chance to explore some of the awesome locations we have in southeast Aus. 

Now for the juicy part! Where are we heading?

Our top 8 Brisbane to Melbourne road trip ideas

There are so many amazing places between Brisbane and Melbourne just waiting to be enjoyed that it’s hard to choose the best of the bunch. 

But after several in-house debates, we’ve landed on an epic list.

Here’s our must-see spots between Melbourne and Brisbane, which you defo won’t wanna miss.

1. Mount Beauty

Wondering why we’ve picked this? The clue’s in the name. This spot is one of the most stunning little towns nestled between rivers and mountains. With activities fit for every season, you’d be a crazy to skip this stop. 

2. Wagga Wagga

This sexy city often gets overlooked by tourists, but believe us when we say it’s a true gem. Wagga Wagga is in the heart of the Riverina, a region full of history and natural beauty. You should totally check it out.

Named after ‘running water’, this countryside town is overflowing with Aboriginal history, culture and natural beauty.

4. Canberra

Imagine going on an Aussie road trip and skipping the capital. You’d have to be nuts! It’s got museums, vineyards, bike trails, and bars. No doubt, there’ll be something here that’s a bit of you. 

From the official capital to another capital on merit, there’s no way you can do this road trip justice if you don’t swing by Sydney. Almost exactly halfway between start and finish, you’ve gotta add the Emerald City to your itinerary. See the sights and soak up the atmosphere . 

6. Port Macquarie 

Famous for its idyllic beaches and Koala obsession, this is a must-see stop for surfers and animal lovers alike. Here is a great list of things to do. 

7. Byron Bay

An iconic lighthouse, natural gems and lots of surfers – all things you’ll find in Byron Bay . This laidback town might be the perfect respite you need towards the end of your road trip.

8. Brisbane

Shock! Who’d have thought Brisbane would be on this list? With endless possibilities and world-renowned attractions, there’s no place you’d rather end up.

Now we know where we’re going, let’s figure out how we’ll get there. 

Let us help you map out your Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary

If you want to make the most of this road trip, you’ve gotta be clever with your itinerary. No one likes to waste a second of vacay time, which is why we’ve created an ideal road trip plan just for you. 

Anyway, here is how we would organise this incredible five-day adventure:

09:00 – Say goodbye to marvellous Melbourne and head for the mountains. You’ll be on the road for a few hours, so make sure you’ve packed some goodies for this leg of the trip!

13:30 – Arrive in Mount Beauty just in time for lunch. 

You’ll be staying here overnight, so head to your digs to get settled. There are tons of great caravan parks and campsites to choose from. We’d also recommend a trip to the Allamar Motor Inn for its epic wine bar.

15:00 – Having found some grub and catching your bearings, why not head to Fainter Falls for a refreshing creek-side stroll? It’s unbelievably stunning. 

18:00 – The Mount is your oyster. With tons of cute restaurants and plenty to see and do, you’ll have your pick of evening activities. 

Make sure you rest up. At dawn, we drive!

08:00 – Bright and early. Let’s swap the mountains for some city living and head for Wagga Wagga. 

11:00 – Arrive in Wagga Wagga. Head to Fitz Café for their all-day brekkie! It’s mega. 

13:00 – Head to the Botanic Gardens to stretch your legs in style. Check out their sick bamboo garden while you’re there! If you have time, explore the nearby Museum of the Riverina to get a real feel for this quirky city. 

15:00 – Time to move on. Let’s head for sweet little Yass. 

17:30 – Y ou made it to Yass. This stop will be your second overnight stay. First things first, choose your accommodation. Check out Yass Valley Caravan Park or drive a little further out to catch some scenic sights . 

18:30 – Feeling peckish?  Ewe’N Me Restaurant  is undoubtedly the place to go if you want some high-quality yet lowkey Aussie grub.  

20:30 – The night is young! Take a gander around town and soak up the vibes. Yazzbar sets the bar high for wine and hosts some epic music nights. 

It’s up to you how you spend the rest of the night. Whether you find another hip bar or head back to the camper to Netflix and chill, we know you’ll have a great night in Yass. 

08:30 – Up and at ‘em! Time to cruise to Canberra. 

09:30 – After a short drive, you’ll be in our country’s capital. Sweet! 

It’s tough to narrow down your options in this hectic city, but there are no wrong choices! 

We’d recommend hitting up the Australian War Memorial for a super special experience. If art’s your thing, check out the awesome scavenger hunt that takes you to all the best artsy spots in town!

13:00 – You’ve got time for a nibble before you leave. One of our fave lunch spots in the city is Rebel Rebel ! 

14:30 – Sydney is calling! And this leg is on the longer side, so stock up on refreshments before you roll.

17:45 – You made it. Phew! Time to find your home for the night among the bright lights of Sydney. 

If you want to mix things up and can afford to splash a bit of cash, Sydney is the place to do it. Treat yourself to a room without wheels for the night at Pier 1 ! It’s literally right under the Harbour Bridge – it doesn’t get much cooler than that. 

19:30 – Dinner time. Thank goodness. 

Sydney is brimming with amazing restaurants and elegant eateries, so take your pick! 

Our top picks are all along the water, bringing heaps of vibes to your evening meal. Try St Siandra for a classy Italian atmosphere, or The Surf Deck if you wanna be right on the beach!

21:00 – Still got some energy? Sydney’s nightlife is pretty good!  From beach bars to sky-high clubs, it’s got it all. Go wild! 

09:00 – We’re afraid that’s as much of a lie-in as you’re gonna get on this trip! 

Spend the morning exploring Sydney by day. Take a cruise along the harbour, feast your eyes on the opera house, or rent a bike to explore the city on two wheels. 

12:30 – Grab a spot of lunch before hitting the highway. Suminoya does a banging Japanese BBQ buffet if you’ve got the stomach!

14:00 – Jump back in your camper and jet off! Port Macquarie is calling your name. This stretch of the journey is long but lovely. Buckle up and enjoy the coastal cruising. 

18:30 – Hello, Port Macquarie! Park up at Edgewater Holiday Park if you want to wake up to sea views in the morning.

Once you’re tummy’s rumbling, head to The Stunned Mullet for some spectacular seafood and sumptuous sea views. You’ll be living the life!

21:00 – Follow up your grub with a tipple or two at one of Port Mac’s many bars and pubs. If you’re into home-brewed beer, you have to give Black Duck a whirl. 

08:30 – Get your last day off to a stunning start by taking a morning stroll along the Old Buttlebutt Walking Track.  

This short but sweet rainforest hike will lead you across creeks and through crisp country air until you reach the legend that is Old Buttlebutt. OB is the OG tree in Port Macquarie – a huge, last-of-its-kind Red Bloodwood.

09:30 – Fill your tank and your tummies with fuel, and set off for your penultimate stop, Byron Bay. 

13:45 – Hit the beach – you’re in Byron home of RatPack Travel! Spend the afternoon enjoying the city’s seafaring activities. 

Tick off a bucket list dream and kayak with dolphins , or try your hand at surfing (with the help of a pro!). Whatever you decide to do, we know you’ll have an awesome afternoon in beautiful Byron Bay. It’s impossible not to.

If you get the time, call in to see us!

17:30 – Whenever you’re ready, wave goodbye to the waves and complete your journey with a two-hour drive to Brisbane. 

19:30 – You’ve made it! And yet the journey has only just begun. 

Brisbane has everything you need for a wicked time. Whether animal sanctuaries or underground operas, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. 

You have the itinerary. Now for the campervan

Here at  RatPack Travel , we think every road trip is special.

So, now you’ve got the perfect plan, we’ve got the perfect van…. (too cheesy? I know, we couldn’t resist) 

Because to make your road trip as epic as possible, you need the coolest camper to get you from A to B – or, should we say, M to B! (sorry, we did it again!)

Get in touch today , and we’ll hook you up with the best wheels that money can buy. 

Travel Aussie – RatPack style.

Get updates trending places to travel across Australia and New Zealand

Join over 7000 adventure seekers and get the best travel insights straight to your inbox

Download Guide Form

" * " indicates required fields

with RatPack Travel?

Cheaper than booking direct

Free date changes

Personalised all the way

5-Star Google Rated

Ready to book?

Let us help you plan your trip..

Share this post:

Get inspired for your next trip:

From our ratpackers.

1,600+ Google & Facebook reviews

Super friendly, and speedy service Anna was lovely- she went above and beyond to help us get the best deal. Definitely recommend!

Jenna was absolutely amazing! Made my booking so easy & was a mind of information about all the booking options, helping guide me & my friends on what camper suited us best for our trip. Could not be more helpful even with additional trip tips! Would highly recommend jenna to anyone who needs info / wants to book a camper! Can't wait for my trip.

Tammy was great with helping us get the best prices and packages that suited us best. We will definitely book again through them. Thanks⭐️⭐️

Jenna & George were a great help in booking our camper-van trip around NZ. They got a fantastic discount compared with going directly to the hire companies. They were very friendly and informative.

I have just booked a campervan… excellent phone service from Anna. Very clear explanations. Will write another review after our trip😀

George from Ratpack Travel was really helpful, he talked me through all the different camper options and what would suit me. He sent me links so I could look through the specs myself. Would really recommend ☺️

Ryan and Jenna were fantastic in assisting to book the right camper for our holiday. Would definitely recommend RatPack Travel.

Mikey was amazing to deal with. Super helpful and very informative. Came away with an awesome deal. Highly recommend!!

Thanks Jenna for your time and help

Jules was amazing. Very helpful and knowledgeable and made the experience completely stress free! Would definitely recommend and book through her again!

I have had the Absolute pleasure of corresponding with "George" regarding my upcoming holiday 😀 I was Very flustered in not knowing where to even start... Then I seen their post on Facebook, so thought I'd give it a go!!! Thank Goodness I did 👍 George has taken away All my stress and worries and has done all the work for me ~ how good is that 😉 My holiday isn't until September ~ yet I know if I have Any questions, I can give him a call and he will help!!! I Will Definitely be telling Everyone about this company and the Brilliant customer service I have been shown! I Cannot rate them any higher, mainly because there's only 5 stars to pick, but I rate them 100% the Best Company I have Every had the opportunity in dealing with!!! Thankyou George ~ I will Forever be a Valued, Happy Customer 😃 Kind Regards Cindy 🙏

Great experience booking with them, Anna asked about my requirements and found the best deals for my upcoming trip. Can't wait.

Ryan did an amazing job and guided me through the alternatives of different campervan rentals and helped me to find what suits me for my trip

Planning a huge trip is always a daunting experience but George managed to make the whole experience stress free and enjoyable. Everything from start to finish was personal and easy! Booking with RatPack is like being on the phone to a mate. Super informative, really friendly and we got an amazing deal. All you can ask for really. Thank you RatPack!

Huge thank you to RatPack Travel! We left it pretty late to book our campervan for Tassie and couldn't find many affordable options ourselves. I spoke to Gregg from RatPack on Whatsapp and within 10 minutes he had found us a great vehicle at an amazing price. We've just landed in Hobart and found out we've been upgraded to an even better van at the same price!! Will definitely be recommending RatPack to everyone I know who is planning to travel and see Australia the proper way! Thank you Gregg! ❤️

We are changing up the

Travel blog.

Privacy | Booking Terms & Conditions

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Brisbane to Melbourne via Dubbo

Brisbane to melbourne road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Brisbane to Melbourne. If you're planning a road trip to Melbourne, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Brisbane drive for about 1.5 hours

11:34 am   Toowoomba stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:34 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

3:01 pm   Goondiwindi stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:01 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Moree drive for about 4 hours

2:09 pm   Dubbo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:09 pm drive for about 3.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 7.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Temora drive for about 1.5 hours

11:34 am   Narrandera stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:34 pm drive for about 3.5 hours

4:06 pm   Alexandra (Australia) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:06 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

6:26 pm  arrive in Melbourne eat at The Lui Bar

day 3 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

Brisbane to Melbourne questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Toowoomba   (2 answers) Goondiwindi Moree Dubbo   (4 answers) Temora Narrandera Alexandra (Australia)

Where's the best place to eat in Melbourne?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest The Lui Bar , which was mentioned 3 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Melbourne? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Melbourne?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Melbourne. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Melbourne.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Melbourne to Brisbane drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Brisbane to Melbourne . Or get a full Brisbane to Melbourne flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Brisbane well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Brisbane!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Brisbane to Melbourne

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Honest tourism information about Australia

Melbourne to Brisbane road trip: Best stops, distance & drive time

• David Whitley
• Practicalities

The best stops on a Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary include Albury, Bowral, Sydney, Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. By car, the distance from Melbourne to Brisbane is 1,776km, with a driving time of around 18h15m.

Planning a Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary

A Melbourne to Brisbane road trip connects the capital of Victoria to the capital of Queensland .

Melbourne offers street art tours , supreme views from the Melbourne Skydeck and Aboriginal cultural tours in the Botanic Gardens. For a great range of Melbourne tours and experiences, explore here . To track down the best value Melbourne accommodation, come this way .

When you reach Brisbane, top options include a  Moreton Island day trip ,  climbing the Story Bridge  and visiting native wildlife at the  Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary .

However, there is plenty to see along the way. A Melbourne to Brisbane road trip strings together wineries, charming country towns, urban energy, national parks and glorious coastline.

This guide should help you plan out the best stops on a Melbourne to Brisbane road trip itinerary . Click through on the individual places and attractions for more detailed, specific information.

Melbourne to Brisbane distance and driving time

By car, the distance from Melbourne to Brisbane is 1,776km. That makes for a driving time of around 18 hours and 15 minutes.

14 fantastic experiences that make the most of your free time in Melbourne

• Get the very best views – on a hot air balloon flight over the city.
• See the changing colours of the river – on a sunset kayaking tour – with dinner. (Highly recommended ✅ )
• Feast and see the sights at the same time – on a four course dinner cruise along the Yarra River.
• A genuinely excellent street art tour , led by prominent street artists. (Highly recommended ✅ )
• The also superb Aboriginal heritage, plants and bush food tour in the Botanic Gardens . (💲 Great value 💲)
• Best of Melbourne bike tour – you can see more on two wheels than walking.
• Hidden laneways bar crawl OR foodie discovery tour OR chocolate and dessert tour .
• Combo ticket for Australian Sports Museum and MCG tour.
• Hassle-dodging advance tickets for the Melbourne Skydeck , Melbourne Zoo , the Ice Bar (with cocktails) and Sea Life Aquarium .

On the way out of Melbourne on the Hume Motorway , there are a few stops worth considering on the way to Seymour, the first decent-sized town. The Mount Ridley Lookout in Craigieburn shows suburbia give way to rural Victoria , and the walking trails of Mount Disappointment are a short detour to the east of Wallan.

Tallarook has an outdoor pool and a few wineries, including the visitor-friendly Trawool Estate , and Seymour is just to the north.

Things to do in Seymour include the memorably moving  Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk  and vintage trains of the  Seymour Railway Heritage Centre .

If you want to stay and explore Seymour further, try booking accommodation at the family-inclined  Big4 Holiday Park  and the well-rated New Crossing Place Motel and Apartments .

North of Seymour, you can go wine-tasting at Fowles Wine and get lost at the Avenel Maze in Avenel.

There’s more wine-tasting just outside Longwood at the Magyars Hill Vineyard and Cottage . Euroa, meanwhile offers nature at Euroa Arboretum and the Balmuttum Walking Track.

Euroa to Wangaratta

The Reef Hills State Park on the way into Benalla is also a good place to see wildflowers and wildlife.

Things to do in Benalla  include admiring the town’s many murals, and checking out one of Australia’s best regional art museums – the  Benalla Art Gallery . The  Benalla Aviation Museum offers surprisingly interesting insights into pilot training during World War II.

Pick the best Benalla accommodation options

The best places to stay in Benalla are…

• For a solid, affordable motel with a pool: Glider City Motel .
• For family-friendly cabins: Benalla Tourist Park .
• For central location: Top of the Town Motel .

Next up is  Glenrowan , scene of Ned Kelly’s last stand. The interpretive displays on Siege Street tell the tale of the shoot-out.

You might also want to make a short detour to the  King Valley wineries  around Milawa on the short drive from Glenrowan to regional hub Wangaratta.

Things to do in Wangaratta  include swimming in the Ovens River from the Northern Beaches and admiring Aboriginal sculptures on the Bullawah Cultural Trail.

For Wangaratta accommodation , try the riverside  Big4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park  and the well kitted-out  Quest  apartments.

Click through to the next section: Wangaratta to Jugiong.

Campervan Hire in Australia | 1300 132 469 or +61 2 8356 2900  or email

Self-service

Hit enter to search or ESC to close

Brisbane to Melbourne: how to make it an epic and breathtaking road trip

Itinerary ideas

Brisbane to Melbourne: how to …

Posted by Spaceships Crew

If you are looking for an epic road trip, travelling from Brisbane to Melbourne along Australia’s east coast should be at the top of your list. On this exciting route, you will pass through beautiful landscapes, charming seaside towns, expansive national parks, and countless beaches. You will be sure to enjoy the flexibility and freedom of a camping lifestyle.

To begin your adventure, pick up your campervan in Brisbane , stock up on supplies, and plan your itinerary. To help you get inspired for your trip, this article will tell you about some of the best places to stop along the way

Your adventure will start with the incredibly scenic drive from Brisbane to Byron through Gold Coast’s beaches and waterways. If you drive straight through to Byron Bay, this leg will take you about two hours, but if you have time, be sure to stop to enjoy the fantastic views along the way.

Australia’s easternmost town, Byron is famous for its excellent beaches, surfing and scuba diving, and its relaxed atmosphere. With its lush rainforests, stunning surroundings, great restaurants, shops, cafes, and a charming lighthouse, Byron Bay is full of fun things to see and do. If you are looking for an unusual adventure, give kayaking with dolphins a try. For camping, there are plenty of inexpensive camping spots nearby.

Coffs Harbour

As you continue down the coast, you will pass through the coastal city of Coffs Harbour, home to several beaches including Gallows, Park Beach, Diggers, Sapphire, Emerald, and Sawtell. A great place for fishing, whale watching, hiking, and wildlife viewing, Coffs Harbour is known for the Big Banana monument and amusement park and the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Coffs Harbour offers several campsites.

Port Macquarie

As you continue on your journey from Brisbane to Melbourne, you will make your way to Port Macquarie, a water lover’s paradise on the mouth of the Hastings River and the Pacific Ocean. The 15 beaches lining the coast are great for swimming, surfing, sail boarding, fishing, and whale watching. You will also find camel rides, barbecue facilities, and playgrounds on the beaches, and many great campsites nearby.

On the gorgeous three-hour drive from Port Macquarie to Newcastle, you can make stops at Nelson Bay and Anna Bay. Built around a large working harbour, Newcastle is known for its famous university, beaches, parks, surfing, fishing, and ocean baths. It also offers beachside camping and caravan parks making it a great place to stop for a night or two.

The drive to the cosmopolitan city of Sydney takes 5-6 hours from Port Macquarie or just 2 hours from Newcastle. Surrounded by beaches, hinterland, world heritage sites, and wineries, Sydney is home to festivals and cultural events, the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Botanical Gardens, and Bondi Beach. If you are looking for a place to camp near Sydney, check out Lane Cove Tourist Park, a large caravan park and campground.

Enjoy the citylife of Sydney on your epic Brisbane to Melbourne road road trip

An idyllic coastal city along the Grand Pacific Drive, Wollongong is known for surfing beaches, rock pools, trails, forests, and cliffs. Attractions include the gorgeous Mount Keira in the Illawarra mountain range, a cultural heritage site for the Wodi Wodi people, the Buddhist Temple of Nan Tien, and Lake Illawarra, a large coastal lagoon. Beachside campgrounds and caravan parks can be found within walking distance to shops and restaurants.

Croajingolong National Park

As your drive along the coast continues, you will pass through several more small coastal towns and national parks. One of the most notable is Croajingolong National Park, which features eucalypt and rainforests and secluded camping spots . Named after the Aboriginal people of the area, this park follows the far-eastern coastline of Victoria and features magnificent wilderness, beaches, diverse flora and fauna, and spectacular views. 450 km east of Melbourne and 500 km south of Sydney, it is accessible from multiple points along the highway.

Beach at Mueller Inlet, Croajingolong National Park | photo: Michael Woodhead (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A great place for bird watching, boating, and fishing, Croajingolong National Park is known for its panoramic views, mountains, sand dunes, and historic light stations at Point Hicks and Gabo Island. With several secluded campgrounds throughout the park, this spot will be a highlight of for your epic road trip. Car-based camping can be found at Wingan Inlet, Shipwreck Creek, Thurra River, Mueller Inlet, and Peachtree Creek. Boat-based camping is located at Tamboon Inlet. Most of the campgrounds have communal picnic facilities and fireplaces.

Final thoughts

Wherever you decide to stop along the way, a road trip from Brisbane to Melbourne will be an experience you will never forget. Australia’s coast, beaches, national parks, and small coastal towns will charm and delight you, making for a great vacation. With so much to explore along Australia’s coast, there will never be a dull moment on this amazing adventure.

Book a campervan

Compare all campervans

Post your comment

You must enable Javascript to submit this form

No one has commented on this page yet.

RSS feed for comments on this page | RSS feed for all comments

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

Melbourne to Brisbane road trip: 7 places to stop

Planning a road trip from Melbourne to Brisbane? Here are the seven top destinations to stop at along your journey.

It’s an unwritten rule that as temperatures drop, south-east based holidaymakers migrate north to the Sunshine State. Those who travel by road have even more opportunities for winter fun along the way – from waterfall walks to whale-watching adventures. Here are seven worthy detours between Melbourne and Brisbane: pick and choose to create your perfect driving itinerary.

1. King Valley

Distance from Melbourne: 280km

2. Canberra

Distance from Melbourne: 660km

3. Mittagong

Distance from Melbourne: 770km

4. Newcastle

Distance from Melbourne: 1000km

5. Port Macquarie

Distance from Melbourne: 1250km

6. Coffs Harbour

Distance from Melbourne: 1400km

7. Byron Bay

Distance from Melbourne: 1600km

Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.

You may also be interested in

By Shell on Aug. 11, 2022

By Shell on Oct. 12, 2021

By Shell on Dec. 15, 2021

• Australia Tourism
• Australia Accommodation
• Australia Bed and Breakfast
• Australia Holiday Rentals
• Australia Flights
• Australia Restaurants
• Australia Attractions
• Australia Travel Forum
• Australia Photos
• All Australia Hotels
• Australia Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Australia
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Road trip Melbourne to Alice Springs - Australia Forum

• South Pacific    
• Australia    

Road trip Melbourne to Alice Springs

• Australia Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• South Pacific forums
• Australia forum

After the dive trip, we’d fly to Melbourne for 2-3 nights, then rent a car to drive to Alice Springs . Just wondering if the following itinerary is ‘doable’ (we aren’t hikers so no hiking planned):

Melbourne- Adelaide via Ocean Rd:

2 Overnights: Mt Gambier & Adelaide

Adelaide-Coober Pedy- (1 night) (I know it’s @9 hrs)

Coober Pedy- Uluru (2 nights Uluru) (drive @8 hrs?)

Uluru-Kings Canyon (1 night)

Kings Canyon-Alice Springs (2 nights)

Drop the car off in Alice Springs and fly to Sydney

Does it matter whether one travels in this direction or is it better to start in Alice Springs (flying there from Sydney) & end in Melbourne?

Thanks for any suggestions!

25 replies to this topic

You’re funny!

Have you read about diving opportunities on the Great Ocean Road ? Hundreds of shipwrecks, dolphins, seals, caves & forests of kelp.

Is this better?

Drive to Uluru (2 nights)

Back to Alice Springs, fly to Melbourne

Drive from Melbourne along Ocean Rd to???

and back (1 night? 2 nights?)

Back to Melbourne for 3 nights

Suggestions on where to stop along Ocean Rd? Is it better to just skip Ocean Rd 😞 and visit either Kangaroo Island or Tasmania instead?

Fly direct to Uluru direct from Cairns and then direct to Melbourne . You can compare flight options here:

https://www.webjet.com.au/

Most people drive along the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell and then return to Melbourne. Some continue to Warrnambool, or head north to the Grampians, or somewhere else. You should allow three days for the road trip if you can.

You won't have enough time to visit Tasmania, based on what you're written. Kangaroo Island is an option, but you have to get there.

Great Ocean Road itineraries are plentiful on the internet:

https://visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/plan-your-trip/itineraries/

https://gretastravels.com/great-ocean-road-2-day-itinerary/

https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/great-ocean-road-itinerary/

Also, when you hit reply, you need to reference the post you are replying to, as TA just puts them all at the bottom.

And, as Armrest say, is it actually Alice that interests you, or Uluru and Kings Canyon?

sweetbiscuit21

Thanks for the hint about posting- didn’t know that.

Is this right?

Is Alice Springs not worth it? Is Kings Canyon better?

With only nine spare nights, I think it best to fly from Cairns direct to Uluru for three nights, then fly to Melbourne for a GOR loop over five or six nights including The Grampians and Ballarat.

You won’t have time to squeeze in Coober Pedy as well - it appears there is only on flight a week from Adelaide to CP.

Alice is not that complicated to add in if you look at the following.

What did you want to do in Alice? The hikes of east and west mcdonnels are fantastic. I assume this is what your interest was? The West Macs are also a 120 km drive north west so you could do as a day trip and just select a few hikes to get done in a day.

• Moving to Australia with a cat - temporary accommodation 11:15
• Best Hotel to Stay at in Brisbane for a Family 11:07
• Smoking CBD 11:02
• Taking fruit to the island 10:48
• What's happening in Brisbane late May? 09:56
• Adelaide to Melbourne by the great ocean road 09:47
• Weather in Sydney last week of july 09:41
• Drop off point in city coming from cruise terminal 08:58
• Luna Park View 08:50
• Sydney in 2 and half days including NYE 07:14
• QF Domestic T1 to International T2 transfer in 1hr 20. 06:03
• Kuranda Station to Koala Garden 05:42
• Suggestions for renting house in Noosa heads in December. 01:58
• Suggestions for a 12 day itinerary in May today
• Accor advantage plus bad experience 76 replies
• 28 Degrees Mastercard 364 replies
• Virgin Australia Mystery Breaks? 132 replies
• Best places to stop on road trip between Adelaide and Perth? 16 replies
• Travel Insurance 33 replies
• 28 Degrees credit card - cash advance ATM fees for Europe 101 replies
• Travelex CashPassport - BEWARE Exchange Rates When Loading 81 replies
• Duty free cigarettes Melbourne airport 6 replies
• OzForex Travel Card Review - BEWARE Rip Off Rates 124 replies
• Best Place to Visit the Great Barrier Reef 11 replies

Australia Hotels and Places to Stay

• Big Things of Australia - by 1TraveltheWorld
• Iconic Pubs and Roadhouses of Australia - by 1TraveltheWorld
• Across the Nullarbor - Ceduna to Norseman By 1TraveltheWorld
• How Big is Australia?
• FAQ - Top Ten Must Sees
• FAQ - BUDGET Travel Tips
• FAQ - DRIVING in Australia
• FAQ - Vehicle RENTAL Tips
• FAQ - Booking hotel ACCOMMODATION
• FAQ - TIPPING in Australia
• Trip Reports - NT
• Trip Reports - QLD