Getting to New South Wales

New South Wales sits on the east coast of Australia, bordering Queensland and Victoria. For most travellers, Sydney is a popular first stop, and with a large international airport, many visitors choose to begin their adventure here. If you're venturing into NSW from other parts of Australia, domestic flights from all capital cities are available connecting you directly into Sydney. From Sydney Airport to the CBD, take a short 20-minute train or taxi ride in. If you're planning to explore outside of Sydney, regional services depart from Central Station on to destinations across the area. Buses run through Sydney city and operate almost 24 hours a day. To efficiently use public transport, purchase an Opal card from transport centres, newsagents and outlets which are often close by to bus stops. Otherwise, ensure you pre-purchase a ticket before boarding as most routes are prepaid to minimise delays. Ferry services are available connecting the harbour to Rose Bay, Mosman, Balmain and Taronga Zoo. Otherwise, for more personalised service, taxis can be hailed from the street or by waiting at designated taxi ranks in the city centre. You can also pre-book your taxi service with one of the many private taxi companies too.

 

The NSW rail connects from Brisbane to Melbourne going inland to Dubbo, Moree, Bathurst, Broken Hill, Griffith and Canberra. Train travel is a slow way to travel through the area; however, it provides a scenic route to see the state. From Byron Bay to Melbourne the journey is 25 hours and 28 minutes, so, for example, you will be departing on Sunday at 5 pm and arriving Monday 6.30pm. Distances between sites are often lengthy; however, hiring a car and driving is a faster alternative and more flexible way to cover more ground.

 

Another incredible site worth visiting is Lord Howe Island, off the north coast of NSW. Regular flights can be organised from either Sydney or Port Macquarie twice weekly. Back on the mainland, to access the incredible Hunter Valley wine region with rolling hills and vineyards surrounding - hire a car and drive two hours north of Sydney. Or for a more relaxed alternative, take a coach tour so that you can explore the wineries and try as many wines as you wish. The Blue Mountains can also be reached on a day trip only 90 minutes from Sydney, with all of the incredible walks and villages to explore. Stay for a couple of nights in Katoomba, Leura or Blackheath or one of the many surrounding towns to truly experience the beauty of what the area has to offer.

 

Getting to New South Wales is easy, whether you wish to fly, drive or travel by train, roads connect the region effectively, and public transport options are available to connect you between the state's main attractions. Plan your trip prior so that you can organise stops between towns and make the most of the sites along the way.