Located on Australia’s East Coast, Brisbane Airport (BNE) is located 22 kilometers from the city’s downtown area. When landing at the airport, you have four different transfer options to get you to your hotel or accommodation.
Your first and most convenient option is to take a Brisbane Airport taxi or a private Brisbane Airport transfer, both of which take 20 minutes and provide a direct and door-to-door service. The next best mode of transport is the Airtrain, Brisbane’s airport train, which also takes around 20 minutes, making it the fastest public transport option.
If you’re traveling solo or on a budget, you may want to consider a shared shuttle service since this will also drop you to your door, but in around 50 minutes. Lastly, you can travel from Brisbane Airport to the city by bus. This is by far the cheapest way to travel but it requires at least two transfers across the local bus and train network and takes 50 minutes without wait and transfer times.
5 ways to get from Brisbane Airport to the city
OPTION | PRICE | TIME | AVAILABILITY | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer | €54 | 20min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| A private transfer is ideal for all travelers who want zero wait time and ultimate convenience and efficiency. | ||||||
Taxi | €27.40 | 20min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| Taxis are an amazing travel option for anyone who wants efficient and convenient transport. | ||||||
Train | €27.2 | 20min | 05:04–22:04 | Convenience | Read more | |
| If you're staying close to Central Station and don't have much luggage, the train is just as quick as a taxi and costs half the price which is ideal for small groups and solo travelers. | ||||||
Shared Shuttle Bus | €38.8 | 50min | 06:00–02:00 | Convenience | Read more | |
| Unless you book your seat in advance, the shuttle service can be quite costly and you may find the train or a taxi more affordable. | ||||||
Public Bus | €0.60 | 50min | 06:20–19:29 | Convenience | Read more | |
| While this is a great option to save money, unless you're traveling with little to no luggage, the Airtrain may be a better balance of convenience and cost-saving. | ||||||
Getting from Brisbane Airport to the city by taxi is the easiest and most convenient travel option. Brisbane Airport taxis are available 24/7 from the dedicated taxi ranks outside each terminal, with no booking required. An off-peak ride to the city takes around 20 minutes, whereas a trip to the city center during peak hours can take up to an hour.
Only two taxi companies provide this service, 13 Cabs and Black & White Cabs, both of which offer sedans with room for four passengers, or maxi taxis which can seat up to 10 people can be arranged on request.
Taxi fare from Brisbane Airport to the city
From Brisbane Airport to the city, your taxi fare will be calculated using a taximeter, based on the time and distance traveled. Moreover, Brisbane taxis implement different tariffs depending on whether your trip occurs during the day, at night, or on weekends and public holidays.
When taking a taxi from Brisbane Airport to Brisbane city, you can expect to pay between €27.40 and €33.50 (AUD 45-55) for up to four passengers, not including tolls or surcharges.
However, if you wish to travel at a competitive fixed price, you can always book your Brisbane Airport transfer in advance, at no extra cost.
Where can I catch a taxi from?
Official Brisbane Airport taxi stands can be found directly outside the Domestic Terminal building on the ground floor, and on Level 2 of the International Terminal, to the left as you exit the Arrivals Hall. Both taxi stands are staffed during peak hours.
Convenience
Taking a taxi from Brisbane Airport to the city is the most comfortable and efficient way to travel, especially after a long flight. Although taxis are a little pricier at night and on weekends – when divided amongst a group they are still very affordable. If you are traveling with heavy luggage or children and prefer the convenience of being dropped straight to your hotel, a taxi is the way to go.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreAnother great travel option is to take the Brisbane Airport train to the city. The AirTrain runs regularly throughout the day, offering a direct service to Central Station in just 20 minutes, the same time as a taxi.
Once you reach the station, you can travel onwards to destinations such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Byron Bay, as well as within Brisbane city center on the Queensland Rail suburban network.
How much is the train from Brisbane Airport to the city?
A one-way ticket on the Airtrain costs €13.60 (AUD 22.30) and can be purchased either online, from one of the Airtrain desks in each of Brisbane’s terminals, or directly at the train station. Online tickets can be used two days on either side of the booked date.
The Airtrain runs from 05:04 to 22:04 on weekdays, and from 06:04 on weekends.
Where do I get the train from?
The Airtrain station is accessible from both terminals. From the Domestic Terminal, exit the Arrivals Hall and use the pedestrian Skywalk to reach the platform. At the International Terminal, take the lift or escalator up to Level 3 and follow the signs towards “Trains.”
Convenience
Taking the train from Brisbane Airport to the city is an efficient and comfortable way to reach downtown. However, since services don’t run after 22:04, if you’re arriving late at night you’ll need to find another way to get to your accommodation. Moreover, while the train is an affordable choice, if you’re traveling in a group of two or more people a taxi may be more cost-effective.
Timetables
Airtrain tickets and timetables
Brisbane Airport – Roma Street
Useful Tips
If you’re looking for a direct transfer to and from Brisbane Airport, the Con-X-ion shared shuttle bus offers a more affordable door-to-door service than a taxi. The Con-X-ion bus operates from both terminals with a pickup and drop-off service to many locations around Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast. You can expect the shared shuttle service to take 50 minutes in light traffic conditions.
How much is the Con-X-ion shuttle bus service from Brisbane Airport to the city center?
A one-way ticket from Brisbane Airport to the city on the Con-X-ion shuttle costs between €9 and €19.40 (AUD 15-32), with prices increasing closer to your travel date. Children under the age of 3 years travel for free but need to be seated on one of their parent’s laps.
You can purchase your tickets online in advance or at the Con-X-ion sales kiosk at each airport terminal. Passengers will then be directed to their departing shuttle bus.
The Con-X-ion shuttle bus runs from 06:00 to 02:00 with longer wait times during the night service.
Where do I get the shuttle from?
As you land at Brisbane Airport, make your way to the Con-X-ion desk and check in for your designated shuttle. You will then be directed to your departure point.
Convenience
Although the Con-X-ion shuttle bus from the airport to Brisbane’s city center is a comfortable and safe option, it’s not considered the most convenient. Ticket prices are slightly higher than the Airtrain’s, travel time is longer, and wait times between services can be lengthy.
Moreover, if you are traveling in a group of two people or more, other transport options such as a pre-booked private transfer may be more affordable.
Timetables
Con-X-ion Bus Timetable
Useful Tips
The cheapest way from Brisbane Airport to the city is to use the public bus system. However, since there isn’t a direct bus, this is also the longest and least convenient way to travel.
Nevertheless, if you’re looking to save some money, start your journey by traveling to the nearby Skygate Center using the free Skygate Airport Transfer bus which takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
From there, jump on the 590 Line to Toombul Interchange for a further 15 minutes, where you can connect to a range of public transport options to the city center. If you take the train towards Roma Street, you’ll be at Central Station in around 15 minutes, whereas the 301 or 306 bus will get you there in around 20 minutes.
All in all, expect the journey by public bus to involve at least two transfers and to take around 40-50 minutes, not including wait or transfer times.
How much is the Brisbane Airport to city bus?
While the public bus may not be the most convenient option, it certainly makes up for it in cost. For your journey from Brisbane Airport to the city by bus you’ll pay just €0.30 (AUD 0.50) per person, no matter what day or time you travel. Tickets can be purchased from the station using cash or card.
The Skygate Loop Service runs 7 days a week from 06:20 to 17:50. The 590 bus runs from 06:19 to 19:29.
Where do I catch the bus from?
The Skygate Loop service departs from the orange bus stop located near the Qantas and Virgin hall at the Domestic Terminal, or near the exit on Level 4 of the International Terminal. Once you reach Skygate Shopping Center, you’ll find the bus stop for the 590 bus service along the Ninth Avenue entrance. Lastly, at Toombul Interchange, check the departure boards for the next train or bus service to the city center.
Convenience
The combined bus – and train – journey is so affordable that you practically ride for free. While this option may not suit everyone, especially if you have children or lots of luggage, if you’re willing to navigate the bus and train network and spend an extra 30 to 40 minutes reaching your destination, then it’s a great way to save money.
Timetables
Skygate Transfer Information
Airport – Skygate Center
Useful Tips
If you’re after convenience and value for money – especially for groups and families – then the best way to travel from Brisbane Airport to the city is to take a private transfer. Welcome Pickups specializes in providing personalized transfer services with guaranteed fixed rates and on-time pickups so that can start your trip off relaxed and carefree.
Your Brisbane Airport transfer includes a meet-and-greet with a local English-speaking driver who’ll be monitoring your flight for any delays to make sure they are right on time. They’ll even give you a mini tour of Brisbane City on the way to your accommodation while sharing their best tips and tricks for this sunny city. On top of that, our customer support team will be on hand 24/7 to help with any queries.
How much is a private transfer from Brisbane Airport to the city?
When you book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups, you’ll receive an upfront quote inclusive of all costs, ensuring there are no hidden surprises on the day. Furthermore, you can pay for your ride in advance so you won’t have to worry about carrying cash or stressing about whether your driver will accept a credit card.
From Brisbane Airport to the city center, you’ll pay €54 (AUD 89.50) for a comfortable sedan that can seat up to 3 passengers. If you need more space, a minivan with space for 7 passengers and their luggage will cost €91 (AUD 150.90), or you can opt for a minibus that can accommodate 12 passengers for €182 (AUD 301.70).
Bookings can be made in less than a minute via the Welcome Pickups website or app; simply enter a few personal details, your flight information, and select a pick-up time and date.
Private transfer are available 24/7 from Brisbane Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
After landing at Brisbane Airport and collecting any baggage, make your way past Customs through to the Arrivals Hall. There you will find your friendly Welcome driver waiting to escort you to your pre-selected private vehicle. To help you recognize them, they’ll be holding a sign with your name, plus you will have been sent their details the day before, including a recent photo.
Convenience
Private transfers provide a reliable and safe transfer option, especially for families with little ones who don’t want to stand around waiting for a bus or train or stress about where to store their luggage. Moreover, as a fully customizable service, private transfers can be catered to suit your needs for an affordable and competitive price which is ideal for business travelers who rely on not being held up or delayed.
Useful Tips
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Brisbane International Airport to the city?
There are four different transfer options to get from Brisbane Airport to the city center. You can take a taxi, private airport transfer, or the Airtrain, all of which take 20 minutes but with varying prices. Otherwise, you can opt for a shared shuttle bus or a combined public bus service, both of which take around 50 minutes, excluding wait times.
How far is the city from Brisbane Airport?
From Brisbane Airport to the city, the distance is roughly 22 kilometers which will take you around 20 minutes to reach by car or taxi.
Is there a train from Brisbane Airport to the city?
Yes, there is a direct train between Brisbane Airport and the city center which takes 20 minutes to reach Central Station and departs every 15 to 30 minutes.
How much is the train from Brisbane Airport to the city?
A one-way ticket on the Airtrain costs €13.60 (AUD 22.30) per person. Tickets can be purchased online for a discounted rate, or you can grab one at the train station from a self-service kiosk or the customer service counter.
How much is a taxi from Brisbane Airport to the city?
The taxi cost from Brisbane Airport to the city should be between €27.40 and €33.50 (AUD 45-55) for up to four passengers. Keep in mind that factors such as traffic, the time of day, and tolls or surcharges can further increase the overall price.
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