How long is the drive?

It takes about 9 hours of driving time.

There is no direct train service from Rockhampton to Toowoomba.

What is the best time to visit?

September is popular for the Carnival of Flowers.

The highways are well-maintained, but require standard road safety precautions.

You can fly into Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, usually via a connection.

Rockhampton

Toowoomba

Bus Driving

Rockhampton to Toowoomba

Updated: 31 May 2026

Toowoomba is located 700 km south of Rockhampton. The drive takes approximately 8 to 9 hours via the Bruce Highway and the New England Highway. This route takes you through coastal towns and then inland to the Darling Downs. It is a long but scenic drive through diverse Queensland landscapes.

Total Distance: 700 km driving, 600 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest way to reach Toowoomba, taking about 9 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally the most cost-effective option for this long-distance journey.

Compare Rockhampton to Toowoomba Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	11 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	$100 - $160	$120 - $180 in fuel
Operator	Greyhound Australia	N/A
Route	Bruce Highway	Bruce Highway (A1) and New England Highway (A3)
Tip	Buses usually require a change in Brisbane or other major hubs.	Plan for a stopover in a town like Maryborough or Gympie.

Travel Tips

Route Planning
Check for roadworks on the Bruce Highway before you depart.
Accommodation
Toowoomba has many hotels; book in advance during the Carnival of Flowers.
Weather
Toowoomba is at a higher elevation and can be significantly colder than the coast.
Fuel
Fill up in major towns to avoid higher prices in remote areas.
Breaks
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long drive.