How to get from Brisbane to the Gold Coast

At just 70 kilometres between the Queensland capital and its capital of fun, there are myriad ways to quickly and affordably get between the two destinations. 

Say adieu to the Story Bridge and Brisbane river and say hello to the sea as the GC is calling.

How much is an Uber from Brisbane airport to the Gold Coast?

Uber is always an option to the GC from Brisbane.

If you're looking for an easy airport transfer that's private and bougie, Uber is the go. But budget for between $110 and $120 on UberX. From Gold Coast Airport to Surfers Paradise, an UberX will cost between $40 and $70 depending on factors such as traffic and off peak congestion. If travelling between Brisbane Airport and the Gold Coast by taxi, you're looking at between $165 and $320 depending on which part of the Gold Coast you are heading to.

Is there a train from Brisbane to the Gold Coast?

The Brisbane Airtrain is a cheap and convenient way to get to the Gold Coast. Picture: Liam Kidston.

Yes. That would be a combination of Airtrain and tram from Brisbane Airport. You change at Helensvale Station and prices start at $23.30. Allow yourself 90 minutes and services run every 15 minutes in peak times. It operates year round and is an easy transport transfer. This makes Airtrain a very affordable option. Click here for more information on the daily schedule. Sit back, relax and plan your visits to attractions, cafes, events and gardens. Because there's other stuff you want to spend your dosh on on the Gold Coast. But if you hit Varsity Lakes, you may have gone a bit too far south.

Can you take a bus from Brisbane to the Gold Coast?

Don't forget the Greyhound option.

Buses are also definitely an option with Con-X-ion offering a Brisbane to Gold Coast service starting at $40. Another Gold Coast bus option is Greyhound with prices starting at a measly $19 from Brisbane for a one way ticket. You will be on the beach at Surfers Paradise or Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in no time. Unfortunately, Brisbane's free city hopper ferry service and bus loop. That said, public transport provider Translink does offer 50c rides on Gold Coast bus services for eligible travellers who want to explore one the local attractions of one of Australia's best tourism destinations.

Originally published as How to get from Brisbane to the Gold Coast