Canberra, while being a capital designed as such, is surprisingly well connected and easy to reach.
Located in the southeast of Australia, between the two metropolitan giants of Sydney and Melbourne, the city is an accessible hub for both those arriving from afar and those who prefer a road trip through the picturesque landscapes of New South Wales .
Whether you are planning an international flight with a layover or a road trip on the road, the options for reaching the Australian capital are varied and cater to every need and budget. In this guide, we will explore all the ways to get to Canberra, helping you choose the most convenient solution for your vacation.
Arriving by Air: The Main Gateway
Canberra International Airport (CBR) is the main access point for visitors arriving from afar. Located just 7 km from the city center, it is one of the most convenient and quickest airports to reach compared to the center of any Australian capital . The airport serves both domestic and international flights, making Canberra a destination within everyone's reach .
Domestic Flights
Canberra is excellently connected to all the major Australian cities. Several airlines, including Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Link Airways, and FlyPelican, offer daily direct flights to and from all state capitals and many regional hubs . The most frequented routes are those from Sydney and Melbourne, with a flight time of about an hour . Direct connections are also available from Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Darwin, Cairns, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Newcastle, and Coffs Harbour . The frequency of flights makes the capital easily reachable at any time of the year.
International Flights
For international travelers, Canberra offers direct connections to some overseas destinations. Currently, Fiji Airways connects Canberra Airport with Nadi, Fiji, providing an access point for travelers from the United States, Canada, and other Pacific islands . Additionally, the return of daily flights by Qatar Airways is expected starting in December 2025, which will offer a direct connection to the airline's global network, allowing travelers to reach Canberra with one stop from many European and Middle Eastern cities . For those arriving from Italy, the most common solution remains an intercontinental flight to Sydney or Melbourne, followed by a domestic flight to Canberra.
Arriving by Car: The Road Trip
For many Australians and visitors, arriving in Canberra by car is an integral part of the travel experience. The city is served by excellent roads that offer breathtaking scenery, from the coast to the mountains. Those arriving by car will immediately appreciate the drivability of Canberra, famous for its wide roads and smooth traffic, making getting around the city a true pleasure .
From Sydney
The drive from Sydney to Canberra is one of the most scenic and popular. The distance is about 280-290 km and the travel time is about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and stops . The route mainly follows the Hume Highway (M31), a well-maintained highway that crosses the countryside of New South Wales. The road offers glimpses of the Southern Highlands and the Snowy Mountains, and you can choose to make stops in picturesque towns like Mittagong or Goulburn .
From Melbourne
The trip from Melbourne to Canberra is longer but equally fascinating. The distance is about 650-670 km and the driving time is about 7-8 hours . The main route follows the Hume Highway (M31) north and then diverts, offering views of the agricultural plains and snow-capped mountains in winter. You can also opt for a more scenic route through the Snowy Mountains or the South Coast .
From Other Locations
Canberra is easily accessible by car from other cities as well. From Brisbane, the trip is longer (about 12-13 hours), while from Adelaide or Perth it requires a multi-day journey. The national highways connect the capital to the whole country, making it an ideal stop for a great Australian road trip.
Arriving by Bus and Train: Budget-Friendly and Scenic Options
For those who do not want to drive, buses and trains offer a convenient and often economical alternative, with the opportunity to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The connections are frequent and well-organized.
By Bus
I servizi di autobus sono una delle soluzioni più gettonate per raggiungere Canberra, soprattutto da Sydney. Compagnie come Murrays Coaches and Greyhound Australia offer frequent and direct services . The bus journey from Sydney takes about 3-5 hours, with prices varying depending on the type of ticket (Early Bird, Advantage, Flexible) . The bus is often the most economical and practical choice, with departures from Sydney Airport or the city’s central station . There are also connections to other cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, Wollongong, and the South Coast .
By Train
The train is a slower but scenic option, ideal for those who love train travel. NSW TrainLink operates a direct train service from Sydney (Central Station) to Canberra, with a duration of about 4-5 hours . The train journey offers views of the countryside and villages, and is a relaxing way to arrive. For those coming from Melbourne, the train journey is more complex and requires a change at Goulburn, with a total duration of about 11 hours . Train tickets can be booked in advance and are available in both Economy and First Class . Trains depart several times a day from Sydney, ensuring some flexibility .
How to Get Around Once You Arrive
Once in Canberra, getting around is simple and pleasant, thanks to a city designed to be livable and human-scale. There are no highway tolls and traffic, even during peak hours, is quite manageable . The city is considered one of the easiest to navigate in Australia.
Public Transport: Buses and Light Rail
The public transport system in Canberra, operated by Transport Canberra, is efficient and continuously expanding .
Buses: The bus network covers the entire city and all suburbs. The "Rapid" lines connect the main urban centers with high frequencies (at least every 15 minutes during peak hours) .
Light Rail: The line connects Gungahlin, to the north, with the city center (Civic) along Northbourne Avenue, with frequencies of up to 5 minutes during peak hours . Construction of Phase 2 is underway and will extend the line to Commonwealth Park and, in the future, to Woden and south of Canberra . Ticket payment is possible with the new card MyWay+ (which will replace the old system in November 2024), but contactless payment options with credit card or smartphone are also expected .
Getting Around by Car, Bike, and Foot
Canberra is a paradise for those who love to move independently .
Car: Renting a car is a great choice, especially for exploring attractions outside the city or visiting nearby wineries . Parking is generally easy and convenient throughout the city, and driving is relaxing thanks to low-traffic roads. All major rental companies are present at the airport and in the city .
Bikes and Pedestrians: Canberra is famous for its extensive network of bike paths, the largest in Australia . Walking and biking are pleasant ways to explore the city center and the lakeside. Many hotels offer bike rentals, and bike sharing and electric scooter services are also available .
Taxis and Ride Sharing: Taxis are easily bookable via app or by phone, and ride-sharing services like Uber, DiDi, Ola, and Shebah (a service for women only) are also available. Rides are paid for contactlessly.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions on How to Get to Canberra
What is the fastest way to get to Canberra from Sydney?
The fastest way is undoubtedly by plane, with a direct flight that takes about 1 hour. The bus and car take about 3-4 hours, while the train takes 4-5 hours.
How much does a flight to Canberra from Sydney cost?
The cost of a flight from Sydney to Canberra varies depending on the airline and the booking period. Generally, a round-trip ticket can cost between 250 and 500 AUD, but it is possible to find deals with low-cost airlines. Prices increase during peak season and for last-minute bookings.
Is it necessary to rent a car in Canberra?
It is not strictly necessary if you stay in the center and visit the main cultural attractions, which are reachable on foot or by public transport. However, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the suburbs, natural reserves like Tidbinbilla, the wineries in the wine region, or for day trips.
Is the train from Sydney to Canberra scenic?
Yes, the train journey from Sydney to Canberra passes through hilly landscapes and countryside, offering pleasant and relaxing views, especially in the sections near Goulburn and the Southern Highlands. It is a slower but very scenic way to arrive.
Are there direct international flights to Canberra?
Currently, Canberra has direct international flights to Nadi, Fiji (with Fiji Airways). The return of direct flights from Qatar Airways is expected in December 2025, which will significantly expand international options. For most travelers coming from Europe, the most common way is to fly to Sydney or Melbourne and then take a domestic flight .
What is the cheapest way to get to Canberra from Sydney?
The cheapest way is generally by bus, with tickets starting at around 50-100 AUD for a one-way trip . The train is slightly more expensive, but offers a scenic alternative. Driving is a middle option, considering the cost of fuel and any tolls .
How far is Canberra Airport from the city center?
Canberra Airport (CBR) is located just 7 km east of the city center, with a travel time of about 10-15 minutes by car or taxi . It is one of the closest airports to the center of any Australian capital.
Is public transport in Canberra accessible?
Yes, Canberra's public transport system is designed to be accessible. Light rail stations have ramps and designated waiting areas, while buses are equipped with deployable ramps for entry. Accessible taxi services are also available for people with reduced mobility .
How to Get to Canberra
Getting to Canberra is a simple and pleasant experience, thanks to a well-developed transport network and the city's strategic location. Whether you prefer the speed of flying, the flexibility of driving, the economy of the bus, or the charm of the train, the Australian capital will welcome you with open arms.
Once you arrive, the city will surprise you with its accessibility: getting around on foot, by bicycle, or using public transport is a breeze, allowing you to focus on the wonders that Canberra has to offer. From the convenience of the airport, reachable in just a few minutes from the center, to the extensive network of bike paths, every aspect of the journey is designed to make your visit as smooth as possible. Plan your arrival according to your needs and get ready to discover a capital that will win you over with its elegance and livability.
📖 Per organizzare al meglio ogni dettaglio del tuo viaggio, dalla scelta dell'alloggio alle attrazioni da non perdere, consulta la nostra guida completa per vacanze a Canberra. Troverai informazioni approfondite per vivere un'esperienza indimenticabile nella capitale australiana.
Review date: March 15, 2026