How to Get Around Sydney Without a Car

Travel Sydney by Ferry

A fun, effective and fast way to get around Sydney is by ferry. Why book a harbour cruise when you can jump on one of these iconic public transport options for a fraction of the price. Sydney Ferries depart from several points around the harbour’s edge – Darling Harbour, Barangarooo, Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Manly, and Watsons Bay. Got a particular destination in mind or just want to take a relaxing ride around the harbour? Travelling on a Sydney Ferry is a top option. Just tap on and off the same way you would a bus or train.

Travel Sydney by Train

Sydney’s train network is extensive. Travel through the city, suburbs or further afield destinations like the Blue Mountains, Newcastle, Wollongong, and the Southern Highlands. Take a train from the Sydney Central Station to get to regional destinations across NSW, or head interstate to Canberra or Melbourne. 

If you simply want to get around Sydney’s CBD, it’s easy! Take a City Circle train. These trains travel underground in a loop, stopping off at city stations including Sydney Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay, St James, and Museum. 

At the airport? Or looking for a way there? Travel to Domestic and International terminals by train. This route is typically more costly than a simple train ride within the city. However, it is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Sydney Airport. 

Learn more about Sydney trains at Transport NSW. 

Travel Sydney by Light Rail

Most of Sydney’s train network operates underground, but the light rail operates above ground throughout the city. Hop on and off several different light rail lines to and from various locations around Sydney CBD, including Central Station, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Pyrmont, Town Hall, and Circular Quay. You can also head to Moore Park and Randwick, plus Dulwich Hill via the suburb of Glebe. 

Just use your Opal Card the same way you would for any other public transport option. More information on the light rail is available at Transport NSW. 

Travel Sydney by Bus

Tap your Opal Card or credit card on and off buses throughout Sydney in exactly the same way you would for a ferry, train or light rail. Travelling by bus is a great way to reach destinations across Sydney that aren’t part of the train, light rail or ferry transport network, like Bondi Beach. Combine train and bus journeys to reach destinations closer to the coast. 

Travel suburban Sydney efficiently via the extensive bus network. Use the Transport NSW Trip Planner to organise your trip.

Travel Sydney by Bike

Another great way to explore Sydney is by bike. However, make sure you’re aware of the Sydney road rules for bike riders prior to saddling up. Follow the Sydney Cycling map to get all the best information about shared paths, bike lanes and typical traffic conditions within the city. 

Thinking you just want to go for a bike ride for fun rather than transport – have a ride on one of Sydney shared paths and cycleways like Bay Run in the inner west, Centennial Park in the inner east, or along Paramatta River in western Sydney.

Travel Sydney by Taxi or Ride Share

Travellers and locals can access Taxis and ride share services throughout Sydney. Take one from the airport, around the CBD, or through the suburbs. It’s a convenient option for those who need to get somewhere specific or somewhere outside of the Sydney transport network. 

Taxis

To take a taxi, hail one in the street, call a company to book one in advance, or find one at one of the designated taxi stands throughout the city. 

Rideshare

To use rideshare services, download the app for the specific company you want and book.

Travel Sydney by Rental Car

Travel Sydney in a rental car if you’re seeking more freedom. Rental cars enable you to go where you want, when you want. It’s the most costly form of transport and there can be some restrictions depending on the company you book with and your license. By renting a car, you will also have to consider parking and traffic yourself, which can be tricky due to Sydney being a very busy city for both pedestrians and drivers.

Travel Sydney by Foot

If your hotel is located in the heart of the city or within close proximity of the attractions you want to see – travelling Sydney by foot is a great option. It’s a leisurely way to get around the big city, and offers more things to see than if you were going via public transport or car. 

Some great places all within walking distance of the CBD include Darling Harbour, Chinatown, Barangaroo, Queen Victoria Building, Sydney Westfield, Sydney Tower, State Theatre, Circular Quay, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Surrey Hills, NSW Parliament, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, and more!