How to Get From Melbourne to Bendigo: The Best Travel Options

At North Removals, we specialize in stress-free relocations, making the process of moving from Melbourne and Bendigo (and vice versa) effortless for individuals and families. With years of experience in the industry, we’ve not only mastered efficient moving but also gathered insights into the best travel options between these two vibrant cities.

Whether you’re planning a move or a simple visit, this guide provides all the key details about getting to Bendigo. From affordable train rides to scenic drives, we’ll help make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive into your travel options!

Transport Options at a Glance

Transport	Price	Travel Time	Advantages	Disadvantages
Car	$15–25	~1 hour 40 minutes	Flexible and fast	Driver responsibility
Taxi	$200–250	~1 hour 40 minutes	Comfortable and private	Expensive
Train	$9.20–$14.60	~1 hour 45 minutes	Affordable and reliable	Limited scenic experience
Bus	~$25	~2 hours 30 minutes	Budget-friendly	Longer travel time

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is it from Melbourne to Bendigo?

• The distance between Melbourne and Bendigo is approximately 150 kilometres (93 miles) by road. It takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes by car or 1 hour and 45 minutes by train.

Where can I find the V/Line timetable for Melbourne to Bendigo?

• You can view all the Regional Victoria V/Line timetables on the official V/Line website.

How do I get from Melbourne Airport to Bendigo Train Station?

• From the airport terminal, walk approximately 6 minutes to the Melbourne T4 Skybus stop. Take the Skybus to the Southern Cross Station in Melbourne City. From there, walk 4 minutes and catch a V/Line train to Bendigo.

What is the Quickest Option to Travel from Melbourne to Bendigo?

• The quickest option is by car or taxi, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

What is the Cheapest Option to Travel from Melbourne to Bendigo?

• The cheapest option is by train, with fares starting at $9.20 for an adult Myki ticket.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Tourists?

• Students: Eligible international students with a valid International Student Travel Pass can receive a 50% discount on Myki fares.
• Tourists: While there are no specific tourist discounts, if you are travelling 12 or more people you can access to the group travel Myki fares.

What is the Trip from Melbourne to Bendigo Like?

Traveling from Melbourne to Bendigo offers a wonderful mix of history, art, and outdoor experiences. Bendigo is known for its rich history from the Gold Rush era, showcased in attractions like the Central Deborah Gold Mine and the Golden Dragon Museum. The city is also home to beautiful parks, galleries, and the famous Bendigo Art Gallery.

Driving to Bendigo lets you enjoy picturesque views of Victoria’s countryside, with opportunities to stop in charming towns like Kyneton or Castlemaine. Opting for the train provides a relaxing ride through the scenic landscape, ideal for those looking to sit back and enjoy the journey.

What Means of Transport Can I Use to Travel from Melbourne to Bendigo?

1. Traveling to Bendigo by Car or Taxi

• Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes.
• Cost: $15–25 for fuel (car), $200–250 (taxi).
• Advantages: Quick, flexible, and allows stops at attractions along the way.

Tips:

• Use navigation apps like Google Maps to plan the fastest route and avoid traffic.
• Plan stops at towns like Kyneton or Castlemaine, known for their historic charm and great food.
• Ensure your car is in good condition with sufficient fuel before starting your journey.

2. Reach Bendigo by Train (V/Line Service)

• Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes.
• Cost: $9.20–$14.60 (Myki card required).
• Advantages: Affordable, efficient, and offers frequent departures from Southern Cross Station.

Tips:

• Travel during off-peak hours for a quieter, more comfortable experience.
• Pack snacks or water, as onboard catering is limited.
• Upon arrival, Bendigo Railway Station is close to the city center, making it easy to start exploring immediately.

3. Travel from Melbourne to Bendigo by Bus

• Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes.
• Cost: ~$25.
• Advantages: Budget-friendly and a great alternative when train schedules don’t align with your plans.

Tips:

• Book tickets in advance to guarantee a seat.
• Bring entertainment or reading material for the longer journey.
• Check for direct bus services or connections to avoid unnecessary delays.

What is the Myki Card for?

The Myki card is an electronic payment system used on public transport in Melbourne and parts of Victoria, including Bendigo. It simplifies paying fares for trains, buses, and trams, offering two options:

• Myki Money: Charges per trip.
• Myki Pass: Provides unlimited travel within selected zones for a set period.

Key Details:

• Initial Cost: AUD 6 for adults or AUD 3 for concession users.
• Fares to Bendigo: A one-way adult fare costs $9.20 with Myki Money.

Tourist Benefits:

The Myki Explorer package is perfect for visitors. It includes a pre-loaded Myki card and discount vouchers for attractions. This package is an excellent choice for tourists exploring Melbourne and Bendigo, offering a hassle-free and cost-effective travel option.

With the Myki card, locals and visitors can enjoy seamless and affordable transport across Victoria, including the scenic journey to Bendigo.

Traveling from Melbourne to Bendigo with Uber

Uber offers a flexible and comfortable travel option for those heading to Bendigo. Here are the key advantages of using Uber for your journey:

• Availability: Uber operates 24/7, ensuring you can travel to Bendigo at any time.
• Economy: While not the cheapest choice, UberX is more affordable than a private taxi, starting at approximately $200.
• Efficient Connections: Uber’s app calculates the fastest route based on current traffic, making it a dependable option.

Uber Options:

• UberX: The most affordable choice at ~$200.
• Uber Comfort or Uber Black: Premium rides with added comfort, costing ~$280.
• UberXL: Ideal for groups, accommodating up to six passengers for ~$250.
• Uber Green: A sustainable option using electric vehicles, priced at ~$220.

Before booking, always check the app for the latest prices and service availability.

Traveling from Melbourne to Bendigo by Truck

If you’re relocating to Bendigo with a truck loaded with furniture, the trip will take slightly longer than a car journey. While a car can make the trip in around 1 hour and 40 minutes, a fully loaded truck typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the weight of the load.

This extra time ensures the safe transport of your belongings. At North Removals, our professional drivers focus on safety and efficiency, ensuring your furniture arrives in perfect condition. We take special care when navigating hills, sharp turns, or uneven roads.

Planning a move to Bendigo? Visit our regional removalist pricing page to get a detailed quote tailored to your needs. With North Removals, you can expect a smooth, stress-free relocation experience.

What to Do Once You Arrive in Bendigo

Bendigo is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and outdoor experiences. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Central Deborah Gold Mine: Explore the rich history of the Gold Rush with underground tours of this preserved mine.
• Bendigo Art Gallery: One of Australia’s oldest and largest regional art galleries, showcasing both historic and modern works.
• Sacred Heart Cathedral: A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral that’s a landmark of Bendigo.
• Bendigo Botanic Gardens: Relax and unwind in these beautiful gardens, perfect for picnics and family outings.
• Golden Dragon Museum: Dive into Bendigo’s Chinese heritage, with exhibits celebrating the city’s rich multicultural history.

What Are the Best Transportation Options for People with Reduced Mobility?

Travelers with disabilities or reduced mobility have several accessible transport options when traveling from Melbourne to Bendigo:

Train

V/Line trains are well-equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, offering:

• Wheelchair-Accessible Spaces: Dedicated areas for wheelchairs.
• Accessible Bathrooms and Ramps: Available at major stations and onboard.
• Assistance: Trained staff are available to assist with boarding and alighting. Contact V/Line ahead of time to arrange support.

Cars: Taxis or Rental Vehicles

In Melbourne, accessible taxis with ramps and wheelchair-adapted rental vehicles are available. To ensure availability, it is advisable to book these services in advance.

Buses

Some bus services to Bendigo may offer accessible features. Contact the operator in advance to confirm accessibility and make any necessary arrangements.

Are You Interested in Traveling Using Sustainable Transport?

If you’re considering sustainable travel from Melbourne to Bendigo, the following table compares the average CO2 emissions per passenger per kilometre for different transport modes:

Means of Transport	Emissions (g CO2/passenger/km)
Car	104
Bus	68 – 180
Train	14 – 120

Eco-Friendly Insights:

• Trains are the most sustainable choice, with emissions as low as 14 g CO2 per kilometre, especially if electric.
• Cars emit 104 g CO2, making them less eco-friendly unless they are hybrid or electric.
• Buses can have higher emissions, especially older models, reaching up to 180 g CO2.

For a greener journey, consider Uber Green, which uses electric vehicles, or explore carpooling options to reduce costs and your environmental impact.

The Carpooling Option

Carpooling is an excellent way to make your trip to Bendigo more affordable and eco-friendly. Several platforms in Melbourne facilitate carpooling:

• Coseats: One of Australia’s largest carpooling networks, connecting passengers and drivers traveling in the same direction.
• Moovl: A user-friendly app that helps passengers and drivers coordinate shared trips. You can also offer spare seats in your vehicle.

Opting for carpooling not only reduces your carbon footprint but also fosters a sense of community among sustainable travelers.

By choosing accessible or eco-friendly transport options, you can make your journey to Bendigo both inclusive and environmentally responsible!

Travel Options from Melbourne Airport to Bendigo

1. Traveling from Melbourne Airport to Bendigo by Car or Taxi

• Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes.
• Cost: $25–30 for fuel (car), $250–300 (taxi).
• Advantages: Fast and convenient, especially for those traveling with luggage.

2. Reach Bendigo by Train (V/Line Service via Sky Bus Transfer)

• Time: ~2.5 hours.
• Cost: $30–35.
• Advantages: Affordable, combining the SkyBus from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station and then a V/Line train to Bendigo.

3. Travel from Melbourne Airport to Bendigo by Bus

• Time: ~3 hours.
• Cost: ~$35.
• Advantages: Budget-friendly, with direct connections available during peak travel times.

Conclusion: The Best Ways to Travel to Bendigo

From our perspective:

• From Melbourne City: The V/Line train is the best choice if you don’t have a car. It’s affordable ($9.20–$14.60), reasonably quick (~1 hour 45 minutes), and runs frequently.
• From Melbourne Airport: The SkyBus + Train combination offers the best value, costing $30–35 and taking about 2.5 hours.

If you’re planning to move between Melbourne and Bendigo, trust North Removals for a seamless and stress-free relocation experience. Let us handle your move while you enjoy settling into this vibrant city!