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Sydney, New South Wales to Ballarat, Victoria from AU$43: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sydney, Australia
to
Ballarat, Australia

How to Get from Sydney to Ballarat: 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.

$43 by busBest price
967 kmDistance
5h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sydney to Ballarat 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
Train
Average Duration
5h  13m
Estimated price
AU$73-223
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
13h  58m
Estimated price
AU$43-190
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 967 km
Duration: 5h 8m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
AU$71-306
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
AU$189-730
Company
Various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
AU$302-524
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
12h  41m
Estimated price
AU$733-734
Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
12h  39m
Estimated price
AU$733-734
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
14h  51m
Estimated price
AU$735-736
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  54m
Estimated price
AU$737-738
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sydney to Ballarat

This journey takes you from the vibrant coastal energy of Sydney to the historic charm of Ballarat, where the gold rush era still echoes through its architecture and culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ballarat

Ballarat features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Ballarat Central
• Home to the famous Sovereign Hill.
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and cafes.
Lake Wendouree
• Scenic walking trails around the lake.
• Popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Newington
• Features stunning historic architecture.
• Close proximity to Ballarat's educational institutions.

Best Times To Visit Ballarat's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Ballarat's highlights.

Sovereign Hill
Visit early on weekdays to explore the gold rush history without the crowds.
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Enjoy the gardens during early morning on weekends for peaceful strolls.
Ballarat Art Gallery
Visit on Thursdays for fewer visitors and access to special exhibits.

Ballarat Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ballarat experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making each time of year suitable for different activities. Spring and autumn offer mild weather that enhances the travel experience, while winter can be chilly, providing a cozy atmosphere for indoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Ballarat

Try the famous Ballarat Pie at the popular local spot, Ballarat’s own Craig's Royal Hotel, where you can savor rich, flaky pastry filled with hearty, locally sourced ingredients. This experience contrasts with Sydney's vibrant fine dining scene by providing a warm, casual ambiance that celebrates regional flavors unique to Victoria.

Sydney - Ballarat operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
AU$2233-2234

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Bendigo (BXG)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
AU$2235-2236

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Avalon (AVV)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
AU$2232-732
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
AU$2239-732

Plane from Newcastle (NTL) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
AU$431-432
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
AU$433-434

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Avalon (AVV)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
AU$2232-732
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
AU$733-436
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Central Station to Hamilton Station

Average Duration
2h 39m
Estimated price
AU$437-439

Train from Central Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 50m
Estimated price
AU$739-19005

Train from Central Station to Ballarat

Average Duration
12h 41m
Estimated price
AU$739-2235
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Central Station to Southern Cross

Average Duration
10h 48m
Estimated price
AU$739-2235

Train from Central Station to Ballarat

Average Duration
12h 41m
Estimated price
AU$733-734
Bus
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
11h 35m
Estimated price
AU$1904-19005

Bus from Sydney Domestic Airport to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
11h 40m
Estimated price
AU$2237-1906

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal/Spencer St to Ballarat

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
AU$437-1900
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
AU$4390-190
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
131008
Website
bendigotaxis.com.au

Other from Bendigo to Ballarat

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
AU$1907-2230

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

Traveling between Sydney and Ballarat 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
• On your journey from Sydney to Ballarat, you will likely be traveling on trains operated by V/Line or NSW TrainLink, which offer catering services on board. V/Line provides a 'Rail Gourmet' menu featuring snacks and beverages for purchase, while NSW TrainLink's express services have limited snack options available. Be sure to bring your own meals if you prefer a full dining experience.
• Both operators offer different seating options. NSW TrainLink generally has Economy seating available, while V/Line provides First Class and Economy seating. First Class on V/Line offers more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. Consider booking First Class for a more comfortable experience, especially on longer trips.
• Upon arrival at Ballarat Station, you will find facilities such as public restrooms. Unfortunately, there are no luggage storage services available at the station, so plan your travel accordingly. To reach the city center, the fastest way is to catch the #22 bus, which runs frequently and takes about 10 minutes to reach the heart of Ballarat. You can check the bus schedule via the Ballarat Public Transport website.
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider taking a morning flight with Virgin Australia or Qantas, as this route often experiences less air traffic and can lead to a more punctual arrival at Melbourne Airport.
• Once you arrive at Melbourne Airport, keep in mind that you will need to transfer to Ballarat via either a bus or train; the Ballarat Train Station offers convenient access to the city center and is approximately a 30-minute ride from the airport.
• Expect to pay around AUD 70-90 for a taxi from Melbourne Airport to Ballarat city center; however, utilizing the V/Line bus services is a budget-friendly alternative that costs around AUD 30 and provides an excellent view of the Victorian countryside. Check out V/Line for schedules and bookings.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sydney to Ballarat.

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The distance between Sydney and Ballarat is approximately 488 miles or 601 miles by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes 12 hours and 41 minutes to reach Ballarat from Sydney by train, 5 hours and 17 minutes by flying to Melbourne and then taking a train, 9 hours and 54 minutes by car, and 14 hours and 23 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Sydney to Ballarat is by bus and train. This option typically costs between $40 and $110 and takes approximately 14 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to reach Ballarat is by flying and taking a train, which takes about 5 hours and 17 minutes at a cost of $70 to $240.
When traveling from Sydney to Ballarat, the prices for a train ticket can range from $53 to $161. Alternatively, taking a bus from Ballarat to Sydney can cost anywhere from $42 to $307. It's important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and class of ticket chosen. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate prices.
To travel from Sydney to Ballarat without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 601 miles, and it takes around 9 hours and 54 minutes to drive from Sydney to Ballarat. The cost of the journey by car varies between $120 and $180, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll charges. Taking this option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore various attractions along the way.
To travel from Sydney to Ballarat without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $50 and $170. There are no direct flights between the two cities, so taking a train is the most convenient and cost-effective option for non-car travel.
Yes, there is a link between Sydney and Ballarat but it is not a direct link. There are train services that depart from Sydney Central Station and arrive at Ballarat via Southern Cross station in Melbourne, with a journey time of approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Sydney to Ballarat, with a transfer at Southern Cross Coach Terminal/Spencer St in Melbourne. This option takes approximately 14 hours and 23 minutes. Please note that these travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic and train/bus schedules.
The flight duration between Sydney and Ballarat is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes for a direct flight from Sydney Airport to Melbourne Airport. However, Ballarat does not have its own airport, so travelers would need to factor in additional travel time by either train or car to reach Ballarat from Melbourne Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 USD.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Ballarat. With over 137 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of options that suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $60 per night, offering affordable choices for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts or budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of options to choose from near Ballarat.

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