Travel from Melbourne to Sydney

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Fly via
Qantas
AUD 180-800+1h 25m - 1h 40m
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., early morning to late evening, approximately hourly or more during peak times)Arrive: Varies by departure
Australia's largest airline, offering frequent direct flights between Melbourne and Sydney. Qantas is a full-service carrier.
Qantas flights typically operate from Terminal 1 at Melbourne Airport (MEL). In Sydney, domestic flights usually arrive at Terminal 3 (T3) or Terminal 2 (T2). Prices can fluctuate significantly based on booking time, fare class, and demand.
Virgin Australia
AUD 90-600+1h 25m - 1h 35m
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., every 30-60 minutes during peak hours)Arrive: Varies by departure
A major Australian airline providing numerous direct services between Melbourne and Sydney, known for its competitive fares and comprehensive network.
Virgin Australia domestic flights from Melbourne generally depart from Terminal 3 at Melbourne Airport (MEL). In Sydney, domestic arrivals are typically at Terminal 2 (T2). Peak periods can see up to 27 flights a day.
Jetstar
AUD 50-300+1h 25m - 1h 35m
Depart: Multiple times daily (e.g., several departures throughout the day)Arrive: Varies by departure
A popular low-cost carrier offering frequent and affordable direct flights, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Jetstar flights primarily operate from Melbourne Airport (MEL), but some services may depart from Avalon Airport (AVV), which is further from Melbourne CBD. Always check your departure airport. In Sydney, domestic flights typically arrive at Terminal 2 (T2). Prices are generally lower but often do not include checked baggage or in-flight meals.
Rex Airlines
AUD 450-900+Approximately 1h 30m - 1h 45m
Depart: Several daily servicesArrive: Varies by departure
Regional Express (Rex) offers direct services between Melbourne and Sydney, providing another option for domestic air travel.
Rex Airlines operates from Melbourne Airport (MEL). Services may be less frequent compared to Qantas or Virgin Australia. Check specific flight details for terminal information.
Train via
NSW TrainLink XPT
AUD 65-25011h 0m - 12h 0m
Depart: Several daily services (e.g., typically four departures per day)Arrive: Varies by departure
The XPT (eXpress Passenger Train) service connects Melbourne and Sydney, offering both daytime and overnight journeys with comfortable seating and amenities.
Trains depart from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne and arrive at Sydney Central Station. The XPT trains are air-conditioned, feature spacious reclining seats, and have a buffet car for snacks and meals.
Bus via
Greyhound Australia
AUD 90-15011h 0m - 13h 0m
Depart: Multiple daily services (e.g., morning, afternoon, and evening departures)Arrive: Varies by departure
Australia's national coach service, providing long-distance bus travel between Melbourne and Sydney with multiple daily departures.
Buses typically depart from Southern Cross Coach Terminal in Melbourne and arrive at Sydney Central Station. Greyhound coaches usually offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, USB chargers, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms.
Firefly Express
AUD 95-13010h 15m - 12h 0m
Depart: Several daily services (e.g., typically once or twice daily)Arrive: Varies by departure
An independent coach operator offering direct services between Melbourne and Sydney.
Firefly Express services depart from Southern Cross Coach Terminal in Melbourne and arrive at Sydney Central Station. These services often include comfort features for the long journey.
FlixBus
AUD 60-12011h 20m - 12h 0m
Depart: Multiple daily services (e.g., morning and evening departures)Arrive: Varies by departure
A European coach company that has expanded its services to Australia, offering competitive fares for travel between Melbourne and Sydney.
FlixBus operates services between Melbourne and Sydney, often at budget-friendly prices. Check their website for specific departure and arrival points in each city.
Drive via
Self-Drive
Fuel cost: AUD 130-220 (estimate for a standard petrol car, one-way)8h 30m - 10h 0m (non-stop via Hume Highway)
Depart: Any timeArrive: Any time
Driving yourself offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore various stops between Melbourne and Sydney.
The most direct route is via the Hume Highway (M31). More scenic coastal routes (e.g., Princes Highway) are considerably longer, taking 15-20 hours of driving over 1200-1400 km. There are numerous petrol stations and rest stops along the Hume Highway. Tolls apply on some motorways within the Sydney network (e.g., M5, M7, M8) which can be paid via an E-toll tag or by purchasing a pass online. There are no major tolls on the Hume Highway itself.
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