By Air
Townsville Airport is one of the fastest growing regional centres in Queensland and over 200,000 residents call this place home. Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Jetgo fly to this airport. Townsville is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the popular Magnetic Island. The city is also within access to national park and historical and outback experiences.
By Rail
The Spirit of Queensland rail service travels through Townsville five times a week from Brisbane or Cairns. Townsville is located in North Queensland, approximately 350 kilometres from Cairns and 1300 kilometres from Brisbane. The journey on rail will take 6 hours from Cairns and this is the best and most comfortable way to travel. From Brisbane you can expect an 18 hour journey. It is not a high speed rail journey so if you are short on time a flight may be a better option for you.
By Bus
Greyhound and Premier Coaches transport thousands of travellers every year between Cairns and Brisbane to the Great Barrier Reef. A trip to Magnetic Island is a must on your visit to Townsville. In just 20 minutes you can be on a tropical island and access a variety of snorkel trails in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Coach companies generally offer hop on and off or kilometres passes and Townsville is an ideal stop to include on your itinerary. You can also use the bus to visit nearby Mission Beach to access other popular islands: Dunk Island, Bedarra Island and Hinchinbrook Island for unique island stays in the Great Barrier Reef.
By Road
Townsville is a stop that should be included on your road trip. Townsville is an ideal place to base yourself for a few days. Not only can visit many Great Barrier Reef Islands such as Magnetic Island but it just a short drive away from tropical rainforest, cultural heritage and beautiful beaches. Nearby, Hinchinbrook has Australia’s highest single drop waterfall at the Wallaman Falls which you reach by hiking to the base. Head to Mungalla Station and experience the culture and history of the Nywaigi Aboriginal people. Charters Towers is also a great town to visit on your travels. Step back in time as you drive through this town as you the many heritage buildings and hear the tales of the gold rush in the 1800’s.