SYDNEY
TRANSPORT
Metro (Trains)
Sydney's train network is the city's lifeline, reaching far and wide. Jump on at Central Station in the CBD, and you can journey to Newtown's bohemian vibes or Surry Hills' trendy scene. Explore the eclectic neighborhoods that surround each train stop, offering their own flavor of Sydney.
Explore the train routes and timetables on the Sydney Trains official website.
Buses
Buses are the neighbourhood navigators, winding through the CBD's skyscrapers and venturing into the artistic lanes of Paddington. Whether you're in the bustling heart of the city or meandering through the relaxed streets of Bondi, buses connect you to the diverse fabric of Sydney's neighbourhoods.
Check out detailed bus routes and schedules at Transport for NSW.
Ferries
Ferries add a maritime touch to your journey, especially around Circular Quay. Catch a ferry to Manly for laid-back beach vibes or Watsons Bay for a taste of coastal elegance. The ferry routes are like nautical threads weaving through Sydney's iconic and picturesque neighbourhoods.
Plan your ferry escapade with the official Sydney Ferries map.
Light Rail (Trams)
Trams, or light rail, gracefully glide through key neighbourhoods like Pyrmont and Chinatown. Pyrmont, with its harborside charm, and Chinatown, bursting with cultural delights, are just a tram ride away. The light rail offers a front-row seat to the varied landscapes of Sydney's neighbourhoods.
Hop on board and explore light rail routes at Transport for NSW.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN SYDNEY
Sydney is an incredibly diverse city, and it's easy to feel transported to a new place when you transition between suburbs - it's one of the things that makes Sydney so unique. Generally speaking, the public transport system in Sydney is pretty reliable, and depending on where you choose to base yourself you'll end up using certain means of transport more than others; for example, if you're travelling between Inner West and the CBD (Central Business District) you're less likely to spend as much time on the ferry as your journeys are primarily overland. Below, you'll find some information on each of the means of public transport, as well as links to maps that will get you moving!
Your go-to contactless smart card for trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. Tap on and off to pay for your journeys, with the added benefit of fare caps for daily and weekly travel.
Opal Card
If you don't have an Opal Card, you can use contactless payment cards (like credit or debit cards) to tap on and off for single-trip journeys on certain modes of transport. Just make sure your card is contactless-enabled.
Contactless Payment Cards
Utilize mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay, to tap on and off for a convenient and cashless travel experience.
Mobile Payments
For occasional travelers, single-trip tickets are available at ticket machines and transport hubs. These paper tickets are valid for a one-way journey on specific modes of transport.
Single-Trip Tickets
If you're eligible for concessions (e.g., students, seniors), you can use concession cards to access discounted fares. Ensure you have your concession card with you during travel.
Concession Cards
Ideal for visitors, the Discovery Pass offers unlimited travel for a set number of days, providing a cost-effective and convenient way to explore Sydney's public transport network.
Discovery Pass
PAYING FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Make sure you check the Transport for NSW website for the latest details on accepted payments and live journey planning!
What is it and what's it used for?
The Opal Card is your passport to effortless travel in Sydney. This contactless smart card is your all-access ticket to trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. Compact and convenient, it simplifies your commute—just tap on at the start of your journey and tap off at the end for a seamless experience across the city.
What are the benefits?
Farewell to change and paper tickets! The Opal Card offers flexibility with daily and weekly fare caps, ensuring you pay no more than needed. It's reloadable, so you're always ready to roll without the hassle of buying tickets for every trip.
How much does it cost / how does it work?
Obtaining an Opal Card is easy. There's a one-time card fee, and then you pay for the trips you take based on distance and transport mode. Simply tap on at the start and off at the end, letting the system calculate your fare. Check the official Opal website for detailed fare info.
How do I sign up?
Signing up for an Opal Card is a breeze. Visit the Opal website or head to a kiosk at major transport hubs. Register online, link your card to an account for added benefits, and set up auto top-ups for a hassle-free experience.
THE OPAL CARD
Uber
Download the app, set up your account, and request a ride. Track your driver, pay through the app, and enjoy a cashless experience.
Ola
Similar to Uber, Ola operates through a user-friendly app. Enter your destination, view available drivers, and enjoy a cashless transaction.
DiDi
Download the app, request a ride, and track your driver. Like its counterparts, pay through the app and rate your experience.
Traditional Taxis
Hail one down from designated ranks or on the street. Provide your destination, and pay with cash or card.
13CABS
Use the app to book and track your taxi. It offers the convenience of traditional taxis with a touch of modern tech.
GoGet
Join, book a car through the app or website, and unlock it with your membership card or app. Perfect for short-term rentals.
Hertz, Avis, and Budget
Reserve a car online or at their respective offices, provide the necessary documentation, inspect the vehicle, and hit the road.
Uber Carshare (formerly CarNextDoor)
Sign up on the website or app, browse available cars, book, and pick up the keys. A community-driven way to access a car when needed.
Lime Bikes
Download the app, locate available bikes or scooters, unlock with your phone, and park responsibly within designated areas.
ALTERNATIVE TRAVEL
Sydney's transportation network extends beyond buses and walking. Explore the city effortlessly with rideshare apps like Uber and Ola, traditional taxis, and car hire services such as GoGet and CarNextDoor. If you prefer two wheels, Sydney Bike Share and Lime provide an eco-friendly spin. Dive into the ease of urban travel with these options, and for more details, hop straight to their official websites.