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Sydney to Darwin from $170: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sydney, Australia
to
Darwin, Australia

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$170 - PlaneBest price
1968 milesDistance
6h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sydney to Darwin 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.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  4m
Estimated price
$171-588
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  4m
Estimated price
$170-600
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1968 miles
Duration: 6h 4m

See more options

Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
58h  18m
Estimated price
$309-797
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
40h  31m
Estimated price
$490-750
Company
Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Train
Average Duration
81h  9m
Estimated price
$883-8932
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sydney to Darwin

The journey from Sydney to Darwin offers a striking contrast, with Sydney's urban energy and coastal charm shifting to Darwin's laid-back tropical vibe and rich Indigenous heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Darwin

Darwin's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences that cater to different tastes.

Cullen Bay
• Waterfront dining with stunning sunset views.
• Close to luxury accommodations and marinas.
Mindil Beach
• Famous for its vibrant night markets.
• Ideal spot for sunset picnics and relaxation.
Fannie Bay
• Home to historical landmarks and cultural sites.
• Gorgeous beach access and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Darwin's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your Darwin experience and enjoyment.

Litchfield National Park
Visit during the dry season from May to October for cooler weather and fewer insects, ensuring a more pleasant exploration of waterfalls and walking trails.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market
Arrive early on Thursday and Sunday evenings to snag the best food stalls and avoid peak crowd times while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset.
Darwin Waterfront Precinct
Weekdays, especially in the early morning, offer a quieter atmosphere for leisurely strolls and enjoying the wave pool without the weekend rush.

Darwin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Darwin experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season; the dry season from May to October is often considered the ideal time to visit. Understanding the weather patterns can greatly enhance your travel experience, allowing you to plan activities that align with the warmer, sunny days and avoid the humidity and heavy rainfall of the wet season.

Dining Recommendation

At Hanuman, indulge in a fusion of Thai and Indian cuisine that captures Darwin's multicultural essence, a stark contrast to Sydney's fine dining scene. The relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients create a distinctly laid-back dining experience, allowing you to savor flavors inspired by the region's rich heritage.

Sydney - Darwin operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
AU$240-800

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
AU$310-1000

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Adelaide

Average Duration
7h 45m
Estimated price
AU$320-1100

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Cairns

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
AU$160-600
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
AU$140-550

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
AU$160-600

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Cairns

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
AU$160-600
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 52m
Estimated price
AU$200-650

Plane from Sydney Airport to Darwin Airport via Adelaide

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
AU$210-650
Train
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Sydney Central Station to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
25h 50m
Estimated price
AU$260-2400
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Darwin

Average Duration
54h
Estimated price
AU$600-6500
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Albury

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
AU$60-140

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
AU$130-330

Bus from Alice Springs to Darwin

Average Duration
21h 35m
Estimated price
AU$130-320
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Albury

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
AU$35-55
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from Albury to 85 Franklin St

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$10-15

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

Traveling between Sydney and Darwin 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 Sydney to Darwin, traversing a distance of 3954.2 km and soaking in the diverse landscapes of the Australian Outback. 💰 The cost of the journey ranges between $490 to $750, offering budget-friendly options to suit different travel preferences and needs. 🌴 Explore the rugged beauty of the Northern Territory as you make your way to Darwin City, a journey that spans around 40 hours and 31 minutes of scenic driving adventure.
Average price
$490 - $750
💰 Ticket prices for the train between Sydney and Darwin can vary, ranging from $883 to $8932 depending on the class of service and amenities.
🛫 Flying from Sydney to Darwin is a convenient and efficient way to travel the vast distance between these two cities. The quickest direct flight takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. 🌴 Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia all operate flights between Sydney Airport and Darwin Airport, providing travelers with multiple options for their journey. The flight duration on this route typically ranges around 6 hours and 4 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Darwin and Sydney can vary, with tickets costing anywhere from $171 to $588.
Departure Point
Sydney Airport
Arrival Point
Darwin Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with either Qantas, Virgin Australia, or Jetstar, as they frequently service the Sydney to Darwin route. Check their websites for the best deals: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar.
• Upon arrival at Darwin Airport (DRW), navigate the airport efficiently by following the clearly marked signs to the baggage claim and ground transportation; the airport's compact design makes it easy to find your way. Familiarize yourself with the layout in advance through the airport's map at Darwin Airport.
• Expect to pay around AUD 25-35 for a taxi from Darwin Airport to the city center, which takes about 15-20 minutes; consider using rideshare services like Uber for potentially lower rates and quicker service.
🚌 Starting from Sydney's Central Station, a bus journey to Darwin is an adventure spanning approximately 2 days and 18 hours, with transfers through Albury, Adelaide, and Alice Springs. 💰 Depending on the ticket class and booking time, the price for a bus ride between Sydney and Darwin typically ranges from $309 to $797, offering budget-friendly options for your cross-country trip.
Departure Point
Central Station
Arrival Point
Darwin station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sydney to Darwin.

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The distance between Sydney and Darwin is 3167.2 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes approximately 6 hours and 4 minutes to reach Darwin from Sydney. By car, the journey takes around 40 hours and 31 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sydney to Darwin is by plane. Flying from Sydney to Darwin takes approximately 6 hours and 4 minutes, making it the quickest way to reach your destination. The cost of flights between the two cities can range from $180 to $450, making it an affordable option for most travelers.
The prices of a train ticket from Sydney to Darwin can range from $825 to $7918, depending on the class and type of accommodation chosen. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Darwin to Sydney can vary from $288 to $1072, depending on factors such as the type of bus and the booking time.
To travel from Sydney to Darwin without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 3954.2 km, and it usually takes around 40 hours and 31 minutes by car. However, keep in mind that the exact travel time may vary depending on factors such as traffic and rest stops. Additionally, the cost of this journey by car can range from $490 to $750, depending on various factors such as the type of vehicle and fuel consumption.
To travel from Sydney to Darwin without a car, the best option is to take a bus or fly. The bus journey takes approximately 2 days and 19 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $280 to $1,100. Alternatively, flying from Sydney to Darwin takes around 6 hours and 4 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $180 to $450. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 3 days and 9 hours and costs between $800 and $8,000.
No, there is no direct link between Sydney and Darwin by bus. However, there are bus services available that involve multiple transfers and take approximately 2 days and 19 hours. Another option is to travel by train from Sydney to Darwin, although the specific travel time is not provided. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, with a flight time of 6 hours and 4 minutes. The road distance between Sydney and Darwin is 3954.3 km, and it takes approximately 40 hours and 31 minutes to drive.
The flight between Sydney and Darwin typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of a flight between Darwin and Sydney can range from $181 to $446, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Darwin. There are currently over 363 hotels available in Darwin City, offering a range of prices starting at $50.