Open Travel Guide
Transportation in Queensland

Getting Around Queensland 2026

Getting around Queensland: transport options, costs, and practical tips.

Queensland is Australia's second-largest state, stretching from the subtropical southeast to the tropical north, encompassing the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and over 7,000 kilometres of coastline. Known as the Sunshine State, it offers world-class diving, golden beaches, vibrant cities, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.

Transportation details

Full breakdown of how to get around.

Queensland is a vast state and getting around requires planning. Domestic flights are the fastest option between major cities. Within cities, public transport is good in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. A hire car is essential for exploring the hinterland, Whitsundays hinterland, Cape York, and many national parks.

Airports

Airport

Brisbane Airport

Airport

Cairns Airport

Airport

Gold Coast Airport

Airport

Townsville Airport

Airport

Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport

Airport

Hamilton Island Airport

Airport

Sunshine Coast Airport

Transport tips

Travel smarter, not harder.

Tip

Buy multi-day or weekly transit passes if you'll use public transport more than twice a day.

Tip

Keep small change handy for buses and shorter trips where contactless may not work.

Tip

Avoid rush hour (typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) for a more comfortable journey.