Townsville sits around 1,350km north of Brisbane — well beyond comfortable driving distance for most visitors. Flying is by far the most common way in, with the train a scenic alternative for those with more time. Once you're in the city, the harbour and the Strand are easily walkable, and Magnetic Island is just a short ferry ride away.
From Brisbane & Beyond
Townsville Airport
Regular direct flights connect Townsville with Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney and Melbourne — the most practical way in for the vast majority of visitors.
Spirit of Queensland
Queensland Rail's tilt train service between Brisbane and Cairns stops at Townsville — a genuinely comfortable, scenic way to see the coast on the way up or down.
The Bruce Highway
Doable, but it's a serious multi-day drive from South East Queensland — most visitors treat this as part of a longer coastal touring itinerary rather than a direct route.
Magnetic Island Ferry
SeaLink runs frequent ferries from the Townsville terminal to Magnetic Island — about 25 minutes each way, with vehicle and passenger-only options.
Getting Around the City
The Strand & CBD
Townsville's waterfront core is genuinely walkable — the Strand, Castle Hill's base, and most CBD dining and attractions sit within easy reach of each other.
Sunbus Network
Townsville's local bus network covers the wider city and suburbs, useful for reaching attractions further from the centre.
Need transport sorted for a group?
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