posted on February 19, 2024
Connecting New South Wales’ sparkling harbour city with the nation’s capital, the Sydney to Canberra road trip is a popular one – and with good reason. On the drive from Sydney to the heart of the ACT, you’ll get to experience all of the beautiful beaches south of Sydney or venture into the Southern Highlands, known for its charming villages and cool-climate wineries. Keep reading to discover our top two itineraries, plus all of the must-see sights to make your Sydney Canberra road trip an unforgettable experience.
An overview of the Sydney to Canberra road trip
- Sydney to Canberra drive time:
- The inland route: 3 hours 10 minutes
- The coastal route: 4 hours 51 minutes
- Driving distance from Sydney to Canberra:
- The inland route: 285 km
- The coastal route: 360 km
- Route options:
- The inland route: A shorter Sydney to Canberra drive time and a chance to explore the Southern Highlands.
- The coastal route: A slightly longer route that takes you down the south coast of Sydney before heading inland to Canberra.
The best time to drive from Sydney to Canberra
If you’re taking the coastal route, you might want to base your road trip timings around the best weather conditions. The summer months of December through to February promise the warmest beach days, but keep in mind you may run into some holiday traffic around Christmas and Australia Day. Alternatively, if you’d like to see the migrating whales that can be spotted just off the coast, you’ll want to set off between May and November.
If you’re taking the inland route, both spring and summer are great times to drive. In spring, the Southern Highlands Food and Wine Festival will be in full swing in Bowral. In autumn, autumnal leaves make for a pretty setting for cosy days exploring the states’ historic towns.
The best way to get from Sydney to Canberra
When it comes to complete freedom and flexibility, nothing beats having your own car to take a road trip from Sydney to Canberra. However, there are some alternative ways to travel.
Flying offers the fastest travel time. The average flight time to Canberra is 56 minutes, with Virgin Australia, Qantas, Jetstar and REX all flying direct to Canberra from Sydney Airport.
You can also catch a train. New South Wales TrainLink train services will take you from Sydney Central railway station to Canberra Kingston station in just over four hours. The train travels via the Southern Highlands, Goulburn and Bungendore.
Want to travel from Sydney to Canberra behind the wheel of your own ride? Hire the car of your dreams from a local host in Sydney on Turo.
What you need to know before driving from Sydney to Canberra
Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way
Topping up on petrol in Sydney before you set off is always a good idea. Both routes take you past Sydney Airport, so you could make use of the petrol stations around there, including the BP on General Holmes Drive. If you take the inland route, Bowral is around halfway (and a popular place to stop anyway), so make use of petrol stations in the town like EG Ampol Bowral (2-4 Banyette Street) and Highland Fuels Bowral (202 Bong Bong Street). Halfway down the coastal route, you’ll find good facilities in Nowra, including the BP at 103 Plunkett Street.
If you’re driving an EV, you’ll find plenty of points to charge, including:
- Fairy Meadow: Bp Pulse Charging Station, Northgate Ctr, 224 Princes Highway.
- Sutton Forest: Evie Charging Station, 13125 Hume Highway.
- Goulburn: Tesla Supercharger, 201 Sloane Street.
- Lake Westering: Lake George Winery. Top tip: Call in for lunch and top up at the same time.
Tips for staying safe on the road
Compared to other iconic Australian road trips, the Sydney to Canberra route is relatively short and straightforward. However, there are some important steps to take to ensure it’s a safe one.
As always, plan regular breaks to combat driver fatigue. Use rest areas along the way to stretch your legs, rest, and stay refreshed. Or better yet, stop at some must-visit attractions along the way.
Check your route and weather conditions before you travel. Australian weather can be unpredictable, particularly during rainy seasons, and New South Wales is no different. You should also ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.
Encounters with animals on the road are possible, so pay attention to wildlife crossing signs, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Expert tips for the Sydney to Canberra drive
The roads between Sydney and Canberra are well maintained, making for an easy journey for most vehicles. However, road conditions can vary, and it’s advisable to check for real-time updates on any road closures or construction before your journey.
The Sydney to Canberra drive can be completed in a single afternoon, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, if you want to explore attractions along the way or prefer a more leisurely pace, consider breaking the journey into multiple days.
Sydney to Canberra road trip itineraries
Route 1: Inland Route
- Driving time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Driving distance: 285 km
- Must-see attractions: The Federal and Hume Highway will take you through the beautiful Southern Highlands. You’ll pass Marulan, Goulburn, the stunning Lake George, as well as the foodie hotspot of Bywong.
- Best for: Foodies and wine buffs. You’ll be spoiled by local produce at the many acclaimed restaurants, cool-climate wines and historic pubs. Not to mention the markets, food festivals and farm tours.
If you want to explore the Southern Highlands en route, this is the Sydney to Canberra road trip itinerary for you. It’s a slightly shorter road trip, heading inland straight out of Sydney. But once you reach the Southern Highlands, you’ll likely want to linger for a while to explore the towns and antique stores, take a rest with a brekkie or afternoon tea, or even stay overnight so you can indulge in some wine tasting.
Route 2: Coastal Route
- Driving time: 4 hours 51 minutes
- Driving distance: 360 km
- Must-see attractions: The route takes you past some of the most stunning beaches and scenery along the south coast of New South Wales, including Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kangaroo Valley, Jervis Bay and the Sussex Inlet. Plus, you’ll have the chance to stop in at the Royal National Park.
- Best for: Beach lovers and surfers. Leaving the city beaches of Sydney behind, you’ll find a little more peace and quiet down the coast.
If you want to arrive in Canberra relaxed and sun-kissed, the coastal route is the road trip for you. Take in the stunning views of the beautiful beaches along the way. On Turo, you can hire a car with add-ons like tents and beach essentials, so you’ll have everything you need for a beach day.
The top Sydney to Canberra road trip stops
Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover or history buff, there are some fantastic stops to make on your road trip from Sydney to Canberra. Here are the best road trip stops for every interest.
For nature lovers
- Royal National Park: One of the world’s oldest national parks, the Royal National Park is a sanctuary of pristine beaches and rainforests and is home to the famous Figure Eight rock pools.
- Morton National Park: Halfway between Sydney and the national capital, Morton National Park offers walking trails, mountain biking and the scenic Fitzroy Falls.
- Monga National Park: A cool temperate rainforest filled with ancient plumwood trees awaits at this natural haven. Enjoy a picnic along the banks of the Mongarlowe River.
- Lake George: Located 30 minutes north of Canberra’s CBD on the Federal Highway, this lake has been half empty for decades, but it has been steadily refilling due to high rainfall over the last few years, making it a great time to visit.
- Fitzroy Falls: In the beautiful Morton National Park, Fitzroy Falls plunges into the untouched valley 81m below. The first viewing platform is near the Fitzroy Falls visitor centre, so if you’re only after a pitstop, head there where you can park. There’s also a gift shop.
For foodies
- Some Cafe, Collector: A cosy, family-friendly country cafe and shop serving single origin coffee, baked goods, brekky, lunch and local produce. You’ll find this on the inland route, after Goulburn, before Lake George.
- Agostini’s, Canberra: An Italian family restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine and offering indoor and outdoor seating.
- Such and Such, Canberra: This new and already award-winning restaurant was named: “One of the most exciting places to eat in Australia right now” by the Sydney Morning Herald. A share-friendly menu suits any occasion, from drinks and snacks to a full dinner.
- Margot, Lake Burley Griffin: A small espresso and wine bar situated on the lake edge, right in the middle of the Parliamentary triangle.
- Lark Hill Cellar Door: Just south of Lake George, this biodynamic, family-owned estate offers organic, local wine tasting at their cellar door and has a restaurant.
Top stop: Nestled by the serene Lake Ginninderra in Belconnen, Stella’s by the Lake is a must-visit for dog lovers and their furry companions visiting Canberra. With award-winning breakfasts and picturesque lakeside views, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and spend quality time with your pet amidst the fresh air. Proudly run by a father-daughter duo, the café is regarded as Canberra’s top destination for dog lovers, serving as a welcoming retreat for all.
For history buffs
- Pretty Southern Highlands towns: Bowral is the main hub of the Highlands and home to an exciting art scene, shops, bakeries, bars and pubs offering local produce. Mittagong is a fast-growing town with a lovely mix of country-style restaurants and shops, with Mount Gibraltar a short drive away. Meanwhile, Moss Vale is coming into its own with stunning lifestyle stores, a cool tap house and a strong creative community. The major towns of Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale are all within an easy drive of the many villages, making them easy to explore on a road trip.
- Australian War Memorial, Canberra: Bringing together a world-class museum, a shrine and an extensive archive, the Australian War Memorial tells the stories of those who have served and continue to serve in war, conflicts and military operations. It’s home to exhibitions, artworks, large technology objects and personal records.
- Bradman Museum, Bowral: Named to honour Australian cricketing hero Sir Donald Bradman, the Bradman Museum celebrates the stories and people who shape the spirit of cricket. Their interactive exhibitions are a must for lovers of the game.
- Saints Peter and Paul’s Old Cathedral, Goulburn: Set in a historic village, this building has beautiful stained glass windows and is the only greenstone church in Australia. A must-see for anyone with an interest in Gothic Revival architecture.
Hit the road: Road trips to try from Canberra
If the Sydney to Canberra drive has whet your appetite for great Australian road trips, then you’ll find plenty more options from the national capital.
- Canberra to Jervis Bay: If you take the inland route but are keen for some beach time, you can drive to the beautiful beaches of Jervis Bay, which are around three hours from Canberra.
- Canberra to Batemans Bay: An equally spectacular beach on the South Coast and only a two-hour drive from Canberra. Pack a snorkel to explore Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail, with its reefs and native fish.
- Canberra to Yass: The picturesque riverside of Yass makes a great base for outdoor adventure or sampling delicious food and wine. You’ll discover fascinating heritage, grand streetscapes, and top wineries in Yass, around an hour’s drive north of Canberra.
- Canberra to Melbourne: If you’re ticking off Australia’s most exciting cities, then take your road trip tour interstate with a trip to Melbourne. The drive can be completed in around seven hours.
Sydney to Canberra drive: Frequently asked questions
Can you complete the Sydney to Canberra drive in reverse?
Absolutely. To complete the Sydney to Canberra drive in reverse, you would start in the nation’s capital and head north toward Sydney. Just like the southbound journey, you have the flexibility to customise your road trip. The journey takes you through the same scenic landscapes and offers the opportunity to explore both urban and rural attractions with the routes listed above.
What is the distance from Sydney to Canberra?
The distance from Sydney to Canberra, is approximately 290 km. The journey is typically driven via the Hume Highway (M31), which connects the capital city of New South Wales, Sydney, to the nation’s capital, Canberra.
What is the most scenic route from Sydney to Canberra?
Both the inland and coastal routes offer some of the most spectacular views you’ll find in New South Wales, so it really comes down to personal preference. If white sands, crystal clear waters and a panoramic view of the ocean are your idea of scenic, opt for the coastal route. If you’d rather see vineyards and pretty Southern Highlands towns, then drive inland from Sydney on your road trip.
What is the quickest route from Sydney to Canberra?
The quickest route from Sydney to Canberra is the inland route, passing through the Southern Highlands and then connecting to the Federal Highway. This route is 285 km and can usually be completed in just over three hours.
Is it worth driving from Sydney to Canberra?
Yes, it’s a popular road trip for a reason. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop at interesting locations, explore hidden gems, and set your own pace. Between the two bustling cities, you’ll be able to soak up the breathtaking views along the south coast with its stunning beaches and explore nature at Budderoo National Park and the Royal National Park.
If you take the inland route, you’ll experience some of the best modern Australian cuisine available in New South Wales, in charming towns full of historical buildings.
A road trip from Sydney can also be a great way to get to Canberra if you appreciate the freedom to customise your journey and make spontaneous stops. This trip is also great for families with small children. Having a car in Canberra gives you the added bonus of being able to explore the city and its attractions at your own pace. Canberra roads are wide and well-signposted, making it an easy city to drive around.
Final advice for the Sydney to Canberra drive of a lifetime
If you’re in Sydney and thinking of visiting Canberra, there’s no better way to travel than in your own car. Whether you take the inland route through the Southern Highlands or venture down the South Coast, you’re in for a treat with this road trip, which can take just a day or be extended into a multi-day trip.
To give yourself the ultimate flexibility, hire a car through Turo for the drive. Having the right vehicle to support you during your travels can make all the difference, and on Turo, you’ll find a wide range of vehicles, hire durations and pick-up locations to suit you.
Lucinda Starr
Lucinda is a Sydney-based content specialist and avid road tripper. Having travelled across Asia, North America and the South Pacific, she's experienced everything from glamping in a Yurt in -30 degrees in The Yukon, snorkelling in the open seas of Vanuatu and hiking the rocky alps of Kamikochi in Japan. She's currently planning her next overseas adventure, a toss-up between a classic #EuroSummer or a multi-day trek through Nepal.
