Darwin to Sydney from $180: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Darwin to Sydney: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$180 - PlaneBest price

1968 milesDistance

4h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Darwin to Sydney with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Darwin to Sydney

The journey from Darwin to Sydney takes you from the tropical landscapes and Indigenous culture of the Northern Territory to the bustling urban vibe and iconic landmarks of New South Wales.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sydney

Sydney offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Surry Hills

• Known for its vibrant café culture.

• Features eclectic shops and art galleries.

Bondi Beach

• Famous for its stunning beach and surf culture.

• Offers lively markets and coastal walks.

The Rocks

• Rich in history with cobblestone streets.

• Enjoys views of the Sydney Opera House.

Best Times To Visit Sydney's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Sydney experience.

Sydney Opera House

Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds.

Bondi Beach

Go on weekdays during off-peak hours for a more relaxing experience.

Taronga Zoo

Arrive right when the zoo opens for a quieter exploration of exhibits.

Sydney Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sydney enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when you can experience pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Sydney

Try the iconic Sydney seafood platter at a waterfront restaurant like Doyle's on the Beach for a taste of fresh, local catches that reflect the city's coastal vibes. This dining experience contrasts with Darwin’s more laid-back, tropical culinary scene, offering you a lively atmosphere and a rich variety of flavors influenced by the diverse urban environment.

Darwin - Sydney operators

Explore transport companies operating between Darwin and Sydney, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

qantas.com

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration

4h 26m

Estimated price

AU$260-850

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration

6h 20m

Estimated price

AU$340-1100

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Melbourne

Average Duration

6h 50m

Estimated price

AU$350-1200

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Adelaide

Average Duration

8h 5m

Estimated price

AU$350-1200

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Alice Springs

Average Duration

8h 10m

Estimated price

AU$320-1000

Website

jetstar.com

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration

4h 30m

Estimated price

AU$150-600

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Melbourne

Average Duration

6h 35m

Estimated price

AU$180-700

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration

6h 45m

Estimated price

AU$170-650

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Adelaide

Average Duration

7h 45m

Estimated price

AU$180-700

Website

virginaustralia.com

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration

6h 52m

Estimated price

AU$210-700

Plane from Darwin (DRW) to Sydney (SYD) via Adelaide

Average Duration

7h 20m

Estimated price

AU$220-700

Bus

Contact phone

1300 473946

Website

greyhound.com.au

Bus from Darwin to Alice Springs

Average Duration

21h 5m

Estimated price

AU$130-320

Bus from Alice Springs to Adelaide

Average Duration

19h 55m

Estimated price

AU$130-330

Bus from Albury to Central Station

Average Duration

7h 40m

Estimated price

AU$60-140

Contact phone

1800 800 007

Website

vline.com.au

Bus from 85 Franklin St to Albury

Average Duration

14h 5m

Estimated price

AU$10-15

Contact phone

1300 730 740

Website

fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Albury station to Central Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

AU$35-55

Train

Contact phone

1800 703 357

Website

journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Darwin to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration

48h 2m

Estimated price

AU$600-6500

Contact phone

1800 703 357

Website

journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide to Southern Cross

Average Duration

10h 35m

Estimated price

AU$70-200

Contact phone

131 500

Website

transportnsw.info

Train from Southern Cross to Sydney Central Railway Station

Average Duration

11h 17m

Estimated price

AU$50-160

Contact phone

1800 703 357

Website

journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Sydney Central Station

Average Duration

28h 30m

Estimated price

AU$260-3800

Darwin to Sydney: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Darwin and Sydney offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Darwin to Sydney, spanning a vast distance of 3955.8 km, offering a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Australia from the rugged outback to the coastal regions. 💸 Journey through the heart of the country will cost you between $490 to $750, allowing flexibility to tailor your trip to your budget while still experiencing the thrill of the open road and endless possibilities for adventure.

Average price

$490 - $750

🚆 Embark on an unforgettable journey from Darwin to Sydney by train, spanning a distance of around 4000 km. 💸 The prices for a train ticket between Darwin and Sydney can range from $743 to $6887, depending on the class and amenities you choose.

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train trip from Darwin to Sydney, you'll likely be traveling with The Ghan or NSW TrainLink. The Ghan offers a high-quality dining experience with meals included in your fare, prepared by onboard chefs. NSW TrainLink has a café car where you can purchase light snacks and drinks. Be sure to make reservations for dining if you choose The Ghan for a more enjoyable experience.

• The Ghan provides three classes of seating: Gold Service (First Class), which includes private cabins and all-inclusive meals; Red Service (Economy Class), offering comfortable reclining seats; and Platinum Service, featuring luxury cabins with additional amenities. NSW TrainLink includes First Class and Economy seating, with first-class passengers enjoying larger seats and complimentary refreshments. Research your seating preference on their respective websites: The Ghan - theghan.com.au and NSW TrainLink - nswtrainlink.info

• Upon arrival at Sydney Central Station, note that you can leave luggage at the station's luggage storage service for a fee, which can help you explore the city without carrying your bags. The station has restrooms, and while showers are not available, nearby facilities in hotels may offer options for a quick freshen up. To get to the city center quickly, use the T2, T3, or T8 metro lines which connect to various popular destinations; the trip to Circular Quay typically takes around 10 minutes.

🛫 Flying from Darwin to Sydney is a convenient journey that takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes on a direct flight. Airlines like Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas provide flight options for this route. ✈️ The flight duration for the trip between Darwin and Sydney is around 4 hours and 53 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination in a relatively short time. 💸 Prices for flights between Sydney and Darwin can range from $182 to $637, offering passengers a range of options depending on their budget and preferences.

Departure Point

Darwin Airport

Arrival Point

Sydney Airport

🌄 The trip will take you through picturesque landscapes, including a stop in Alice Springs before heading towards Albury. The travel time, with transfers, is estimated to be approximately 2 days and 17 hours. 💰 The cost for a bus ticket from Darwin to Sydney can range from $310 to $804, depending on the chosen route and amenities.

Departure Point

Darwin station

Arrival Point

Central Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Darwin to Sydney.

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The distance between Darwin and Sydney is approximately 3167 km by air and 3956 km by road. By plane, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 41 minutes. By car, it takes around 40 hours and 32 minutes to drive from Darwin to Sydney.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Darwin City to Sydney is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $180 and $450. Taking a flight allows you to reach your destination quickly and avoid the 40-hour-plus journey by car, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

The prices for a train ticket between Darwin and Sydney can range from $822 to $7927, depending on the class of travel and any discounts available. Alternatively, the price of a bus ticket between Sydney and Darwin can vary from $292 to $1069, again depending on the bus company and any promotions or discounts.

To get from Darwin to Sydney without using public transportation, you can drive the entire distance. The driving distance between Darwin City and Sydney is approximately 3956 km, which takes around 40 hours and 32 minutes. However, you should be prepared for the long journey and make sure to plan for stops along the way, as it can be a tiring and time-consuming trip. Additionally, the prices for car rentals or using your own vehicle can vary from $490 to $750.

The most convenient option to travel from Darwin to Sydney without a car is by flying, which takes approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $180 and $450. Another option is to take a bus, which is a more affordable choice but requires a longer travel time of 2 days and 18 hours, with prices ranging from $290 to $1100. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a train, which costs between $800 and $8000 and takes approximately 3 days and 7 hours.

Yes, there is a link between Darwin and Sydney although it requires a combination of transportation modes. There is a direct train from Darwin to Sydney, which takes approximately 2 days and 18 hours, including transfers. Alternatively, there is a direct flight from Darwin to Sydney, with a travel time of 4 hours and 41 minutes. Lastly, there is no direct bus service, but it is possible to take a bus from Darwin to Sydney with transfers, which takes approximately 2 days and 18 hours.

The flight duration between Darwin and Sydney is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket between these two cities can range from $180 to $447, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Sydney. With over 1365 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at $77, ensuring that there is a range of options available for travelers.