Adelaide to Brisbane road trip itinerary: complete guide

As we’re so often told, it’s not the destination, but the journey that counts. Sure, we could all jump in an aeroplane and fly from State to State without a worry in the world, but think of all the amazing places you’re missing in-between. And one of the best Australian holidays you can take is an Adelaide to Brisbane road trip.

With almost 22 hours of driving time to cover, there are so many new and exciting places you can check out along the way! Discover our favourite route for this epic journey below.

Stop 1: Adelaide to Mildura

Travel time: 4 hours 21 minutes

Sitting on the banks of the Murray River, Mildura is the perfect stop for a night or two. You can jump on one of the paddle steamers or houseboats and experience something a little bit different, or enjoy one of the wine bars or restaurants that are clustered on Langtree Avenue.

Also known as the centre of Victoria’s Food Bowl, the area is well known for its citrus fruits and wine. The area actually supplies 80% of Victoria’s grapes. There are plenty of picturesque locations nearby with a rich history to be shared. Take the Chaffey Trail and see the Old Mildura Homestead, Rio Vista House and much more.

Stop 2: Mildura to Mungo

Travel Time: 1 hour 36 minutes

This hidden gem is often overlooked by many travellers. It’s one of those special places you will remember for a lifetime. The area is so rich in history, scientists have discovered artefacts dating back more than 50,000 years ago. This makes Mungo one of the oldest places outside of Africa that are now occupied by modern society.

Whether you’re looking to set out on a walk, get to know the Indigenous culture a little better, spot some wildlife or just relax and scan the skies, your options are endless. Your van will come in very useful to see you around Mungo National Park, and you can even camp at Main Camp which is close to some of the amazing sites on offer. All you need is just one night to soak up some of the wonders of this amazing location.

Stop 3: Mungo to Lake Cargelligo

Travel Time: 4 hours and 25 minutes

A peaceful oasis in the stunning Parkes region of NSW, if you’re looking to unwind and enjoy a bit of time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then this is the place to do it.

Surrounded by water, there’s plenty of activities for you to enjoy, from water sports to birdwatching, sailing, kayaking, water skiing and swimming. You can also take off on the walking track around the foreshore and soak up some of the amazing views on your trip. Griffith is just an hour and a half away, where you can head out for the day (or add in an extra stop on your trip) to enjoy all the amazing wineries they have on offer.

Stop 4: Lake Cargelligo to Dubbo

Travel Time: 3 hours and 20 minutes

Dubbo is another great stopover on an Adelaide to Brisbane road trip, being a fun place to explore for both young and old. While you’re there, you won’t want to miss the Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which has open range exhibits that you can walk, drive or ride your way around.

If you have the time, then plan to stop over for a couple of days to make the most of what the region has to offer. Grab a Great Big Adventure Pass, which is a multi-ticket to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol, the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience, Wellington Caves and more.

Stop 5: Dubbo to Bingara

Travel Time: 4 hours and 11 minutes

Also known as the Gem on the Gwydir, this is a great place to visit. It’s nestled in between hills and offers peace you won’t find anywhere else. This historic gold and diamond-mining town is the perfect opportunity to pick up a fossicking map and get hunting. Who knows what you might uncover.

There are a number of other sites along the way to check out as well, including Myall Creek Massacre Memorial, the 1936 Roxy Theatre, or go fishing on Copeton Dam. It’s a chance to experience something really unique and make the most of your road trip.

Stop 6: Bingara to Brisbane

Travel Time: 5 hours and 27 minutes

It’s time to hit the open road and complete the last leg to Brisbane. Sure, you could have flown directly into Brisbane, but look at all the amazing places and experiences along the way that you will miss out on.

Of course, Brisbane has plenty to offer as well, and you can spend a good week here checking out the sites. Head over to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, take a river cruise down the South Bank, or head for a spot of shopping at Queen Street Mall. There really is something for everyone.

Since you have the van, you can also explore areas around Brisbane to make the most of your trip. Head to Gold Coast for some beautiful sandy beaches and amusement parks, or head over to Sunshine Coast for some natural wonders and fabulous attraction.

Heading Back

Once you're done with your holiday, there is plenty of fun still to be had making your way home. Here’s the perfect itinerary to get you back to Adelaide while checking out more amazing sites along the way.

• Brisbane to Toowoomba: 1 hour and 36 minutes

• Toowoomba to Lightning Ridge: 6 hours and 5 minutes driving time

• Lightning Ridge to Bourke: 3 hours and 15 minutes driving time

• Bourke to Tilpa: 5 hours and 18 minutes driving time

• Tilpa to Broken Hill: 4 hours and 5 minutes driving time

• Broken Hill to Adelaide: 5 hours 37 minutes driving time

Plan Your Adelaide to Brisbane Road Trip

It’s easy to see the allure of van life and all the fun adventures that can be experienced when you hit the open road. There are so many different options when it comes to an Adelaide to Brisbane road trip, the only thing you are limited by is time. You can even stay put and explore South Australia, enjoying all the beautiful places there.

So free up that time, and let us help you to find the right van to pick up in Adelaide before setting off for Brisbane.

Want some more travel inspo from Adelaide? Discover the best Adelaide to Uluru road trip!