Is there a train to Lismore?

No, passenger rail services to Lismore were discontinued; bus connections are required.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 15 hours of active driving time.

What is the best airport?

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is the closest major airport to Lismore.

Yes, some sections of the Pacific Highway may have toll points.

Yes, the route through the Northern Rivers offers beautiful mountain and valley views.

Bundalong

Lismore

Flight Driving

Bundalong to Lismore

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Bundalong to Lismore spans approximately 1,350 km via the Newell Highway and Pacific Highway. Driving is the most flexible option, taking roughly 15 hours of pure transit time. Alternatively, you can drive to Albury Airport and fly to Ballina, then take a 45-minute shuttle to Lismore. This route transitions from the Murray River plains to the lush Northern Rivers region. Expect varied terrain including the Great Dividing Range crossings.

Total Distance: 1,350 km driving distance; 1,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Albury to Ballina is the fastest, taking 6 hours including airport transfers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option for groups or families, costing approximately 300 AUD in fuel.

Compare Bundalong to Lismore Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	15 hours
Avg Price	400-600 AUD	250-350 AUD
Operator	Qantas/Rex	Personal Vehicle
Route	Albury Airport to Ballina Byron Gateway Airport.	B75 Newell Highway to Pacific Highway M1.
Tip	Book your shuttle from Ballina to Lismore in advance.	Stop in Dubbo to break up the long drive.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like Dubbo or Moree to avoid remote highway pricing.
Accommodation
Book motels in advance if traveling during school holidays.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW for roadworks on the Pacific Highway.
Packing
Bring layers as temperatures drop significantly in the Great Dividing Range.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as mobile reception is spotty in rural NSW.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize kangaroo collision risks.
Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours of driving.
Weather
Monitor flood warnings if traveling during the summer wet season.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and coolant are checked before departing Bundalong.