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Mackay, Queensland to Sydney, New South Wales from $117: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Mackay, Australia
to
Sydney, Australia

How to Get from Mackay to Sydney: 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.

$117 - PlaneBest price
1436 kmDistance
4h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Mackay 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.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$135-303
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
8h  42m
Estimated price
$117-402
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1436 km
Duration: 4h 19m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  19m
Estimated price
$118-467
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
28h  28m
Estimated price
$120-1350
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$345-598
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  23m
Estimated price
$1351-1352
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
35h  52m
Estimated price
$1353-1354
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
21h  2m
Estimated price
$1355-1356
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Mackay to Sydney

The journey from Mackay to Sydney takes you from the laid-back beauty of tropical Queensland to the vibrant hustle and bustle of Australia's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sydney

Sydney boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and vibes.

Surry Hills
• Trendy cafes and restaurants line the streets.
• Known for its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Bondi Beach
• Famous for its iconic surf beach and coastal walks.
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and eateries nearby.
The Rocks
• Rich in history with well-preserved buildings.
• Hosts lively markets and unique artisan shops.

Best Times To Visit Sydney's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Sydney's top spots.

Sydney Opera House
Visit early on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and soak in stunning views.
Taronga Zoo
Afternoons during weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere and active wildlife.
Bondi Beach
Early morning or late afternoon visits allow for fewer tourists and stunning light.

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 the weather is pleasant and crowds are often lighter, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Try the acclaimed 'Rockpool Bar & Grill' for a taste of upscale Australian dining, where you can savor perfectly grilled meats and fresh seafood sourced from local markets. This vibrant Sydney establishment contrasts with Mackay’s more laid-back culinary scene, offering a sophisticated atmosphere and an innovative take on flavor profiles that highlights the city’s diverse culinary influences.

Mackay - Sydney operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
5h 29m
Estimated price
AU$135-303

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Newcastle (NTL)

Average Duration
8h 42m
Estimated price
AU$117-402
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Mackay (MKY) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
4h 26m
Estimated price
AU$1173-3033
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Proserpine (PPP) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$3036-3037
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Mackay (MKY) to Roma Street

Average Duration
28h 28m
Estimated price
AU$120-1350
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$4024-4025
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Mackay to Brisbane

Average Duration
16h 20m
Estimated price
AU$3036-4026

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$11785-3039
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Mackay to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
17h
Estimated price
AU$40205-4028

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

Traveling between Mackay 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Mackay to Sydney include catering options with seasonal menu choices available for purchase. You can enjoy hot meals, snacks, and beverages from the dining car. Pre-ordering meals is also available for those in First Class, offering a finer dining experience.
• The train operators on this route include Queensland Rail and NSW TrainLink. Queensland Rail provides Economy and First Class seating, while NSW TrainLink offers Economy and Business Class options. Check out their websites for more information: Queensland Rail - queenslandrailtravel.com.au, NSW TrainLink - transportnsw.info
• Upon arriving at Central Station in Sydney, be prepared for a busy environment. You can leave luggage at the storage facility on the concourse level, and clean restrooms are readily available. Additionally, there are showers if you need a refresh after your journey. For the fastest way to reach the city center, take the T8 Airport & South Line metro from Central Station to Circular Quay, which takes about 10 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mackay to Sydney.

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The distance between Mackay and Sydney is 892 miles by air, 1085 miles by road, and 940 miles by bus. By train, it takes approximately 28 hours and 28 minutes to travel from Mackay to Sydney. The quickest mode of transportation is by plane, with a travel time of 5 hours and 30 minutes. Driving by car takes around 21 hours and 2 minutes, while taking a bus would take approximately 32 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Mackay to Sydney is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $120 to $220. However, this mode of transportation is time-consuming as it takes approximately 28 hours and 28 minutes. For a more time-efficient choice, driving to Proserpine and then flying to Sydney is recommended. This option takes only 4 hours and 19 minutes but costs between $120 and $470.
The prices for a train journey from Mackay to Sydney range from $126 to $220. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the type of ticket, the class of travel, and any promotional deals available. When it comes to traveling by bus, the prices between Sydney and Mackay can range from $130 to $416. Again, these prices can vary based on factors such as the bus company, the duration of the journey, and any discounts or offers currently available.
To travel from Mackay to Sydney without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 1085 miles. The journey takes approximately 21 hours and 2 minutes by car. Keep in mind that the cost of gas and tolls should be factored in, which can range from $220 to $320, depending on the vehicle and current fuel prices.
To travel from Mackay to Sydney without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. Taking the train is a more leisurely option, with a travel time of 28 hours and 28 minutes, but it offers scenic views along the way. The cost ranges from $120 to $220. On the other hand, flying is faster, taking around 5 hours and 30 minutes, with prices ranging from $140 to $290. Both options provide convenient and hassle-free journeys.
No, there is no direct link between Mackay and Sydney. However, there are options available for travel between the two cities. One option is to take a train from Mackay to Brisbane, then transfer to another train to reach Sydney. This journey takes approximately 28 hours and 28 minutes. Another option is to take a bus from Mackay to Brisbane, then transfer to another bus to reach Sydney. This journey takes approximately 32 hours and 25 minutes.
The typical flight duration between Mackay and Sydney with one stopover, is approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Sydney and Mackay can vary, with prices ranging from $140 to $281.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Sydney with over 1365 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in Sydney start at $77 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxury options. Whether you prefer to stay in the city center or near popular attractions such as the Sydney Opera House or Bondi Beach, you will have no shortage of choices for a comfortable stay.