To/From Airport
Train
Both the international and domestic airport is serviced by City Rail with a train link into the city. Once way ticket to Central Station is AUD$11.80, and takes around 10-15 minutes. From Central Station you can transfer to other train lines and bus services.
Bus / Shuttles
Unfortunately there is no bus service available to and from the airport. Some hotels offer shuttle services to their customers. Enquire about the service when booking your room.
Taxi
A trip from the airport to the city central will cost around AUD$30 one way. This is only worth the cost if travelling with a friend or two. Taxis can be hailed at the designated Taxi stands just outside the arrival hall.
Getting around in Sydney
Sydney’s public transport system includes the trains, buses and ferries across the inner harbour.
Trains
Trains are a great way to travel when visiting attractions and locations outside the city. Tickets can be bought from the automatic ticket machines or at the ticket booths at the train stations. A return ticket gives you until 4am the next day for your return journey.
Buses
Sydney Buses run regular services in and out of the city, as well as to most of the beach locations. However due to frequently congested traffic conditions a trip may take longer than you planned. A bus network info desk is located at Central Square (major bus hub outside Central Station) if you are unsure of the services you should be using.
Ferries
Ferry services from Circular Quay will take you across to inner and outer harbour locations without having to travel the long way round across the waters with a bus. Getting the ferry is also a great way to enjoy Sydney’s harbour views and check out some of the prestigious real estates within the inner harbour.
For good value all day transport requirements, purchase a Day Tripper ticket (AUD$16) available from train stations or onboard buses (excluding ‘Prepay Only’ buses). This pass allows unlimited travels on the trains, buses and ferry network within the suburban areas.
Other leisure and tourist passes are available to suit multi-day/multi-destination requirements. Visit the Transport Infoline on www.131500.info for details.
Monorail and Light Rail
The Monorail is a loop train that circles some of Sydney’s major attractions. Not really great as a public transport however a great way to sightsee without having to walk.
The Light Rail is a newer addition to Sydney’s transport pub but only for certain places. Its construction is considered to be a waste of time by the locals, but its direct service to Star City and the Fish Market has had some value to visitors.
Taxis
Sydney’s taxis are metered but expensive. As a passenger, you have the right to direct the driver how to get to your destination. Although most taxi drivers are honest, there will be a few that will take advantage of visitors who do not know their way.
Driving
Driving in Sydney is a nightmare, even for the locals. Unless you plan to visit areas outside Sydney that is inaccessible by other forms of transport, driving is not recommended.
Parking around Sydney is expensive and hard to find, however most hotels and some budget accommodation do provide parking for their guests.
Car hires can be picked up from the airport as well as various locations around Sydney.
Bikes
Bike hires are available from retailers for more adventurous travellers. Riders are required to wear a helmet and it would be wise to have a reflective tag on the bike or your clothes to help you with night time riding. The traffic in Sydney is unfortunately not very friendly to bike riders and care should be taken when riding on major roads.
|