Gold Coast to Brisbane train: Costs, timetable & journey time
The Gold Coast to Brisbane train timetable starts at 04.10. Journey times on the Gold Coast Line can be up to 1h45m, and fare prices are costed on a zone-based system.
The Gold Coast to Brisbane train is a service that tends to get used more by commuters than tourists. This is largely because the Gold Coast stations are inland rather than by the ocean, where tourists want to be.
Nevertheless, it’s at least handy to know about the Gold Coast Line, in case you’re looking for an alternative to driving or a taxi.
9 brilliant Brisbane experiences to book in advance
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tickets (or entry plus river cruise combo) – hold a koala and see lots of adorable native wildlife.
- Brisbane River cruise – see the key sights and learn about the city on the way.
- Story Bridge Adventure Climb – walk along the top of Brisbane’s famous bridge, with 360 degree views.
- Combine the Southbank Parklands, City Botanic Gardens and Kangaroo Point Cliffs on a fun Segway tour.
- Helicopter flight – see the city from a bird’s eye view.
- Kayaking tour – choose the night tour to see the city light up, the day tour to enjoy the sunshine.
- XXXX brewery tour – see how Australia’s most famous beer is made.
- Guided wine flight tasting – get an Aussie wine introductory course.
- See Brisbane’s spooky side on a city centre ghost tour.
Gold Coast to Brisbane train route
The Gold Coast to Brisbane train sets off from Varsity Lakes station, which is next to the Bruce Highway west of Burleigh Heads. The Gold Coast Line then heads through several other somewhat underwhelming suburbs, into Brisbane and towards Brisbane Airport.
Most Gold Coast trains go through to both the international and domestic terminal at Brisbane Airport.
Best day trips from the Gold Coast – 7 ways to improve your stay
The Gold Coast is a destination in its own right, but there are several excellent day trips you can do while using it as a base.
- Deluxe Tamborine Mountain winery tour – with gourmet lunch.
- Full day Springbrook National Park tour – with waterfalls and bush tucker tasting.
- Snorkelling with turtles at Cook Island.
- Evening glowworm-viewing experience – with guided stargazing.
- Lady Elliot Island day trip – with glass bottom boat & guided Great Barrier Reef snorkelling tour.
- Hopping between microbreweries – with lunch included.
- Northern Rivers fruit & distillery tour – with Tropical Fruit World and Husk Distillers.
Next section: Gold Coast to Brisbane timetable.