Want freedom, scenic views, and flexibility with when you travel? The Sydney to Melbourne drive should be on your bucket list. The route provides memorable experiences, whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or enjoying a family adventure. You won’t just be getting between major cities — you’ll be weaving through seaside towns, historic villages and untamed nature.
Planning the Trip
So, why Drive Instead of Fly? Flying may be faster, but it leaves behind everything that can make a journey rich and personal. The Sydney to Melbourne drive gives the experience back over to you. You will be less about racing through airport lines and losing out on everything between and more about immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of New South Wales and Victoria. You’ll travel through eucalyptus-drenched forests, sleepy farm towns, endless inland plains and sun-drenched coastlines.
From a practical perspective, the difference in cost isn’t that dramatic. That might cost you around $120 to $180 to drive, again depending on the vehicle. There are a couple of tolls in the vicinity of Sydney, but with proper planning, they can be avoided. Accommodations range from motels to charming boutique stays, typically $80 to $180 per night.
A train ticket costs around $100–$130 one way and restricts you to fixed-departure, fixed-arrival times. Flying might seem cheaper at first glance, with prices starting at $60, but luggage fees and airport transfers can add to your cost.
Choosing Your Route
The Hume Highway is approximately 878 km and takes about nine hours. It’s one that’s efficient, mostly freeway, and ideal for those who just want a straight shot.
If you have a little more time, the Princes Highway is the best. Over 1,100 kms and without breaks, it’s a 12- to 14-hour ride. Every few kilometers along the Sydney to Melbourne drive way, there’s something to discover. Beautiful beaches, gentle, green hills, peaceful national parks, and animals you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Time to Go
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to drive from Sydney to Melbourne. You’ll find balmy temperatures and blooming scenery here, but you avoid the extreme heat of summer or the frigid weather of inland winter. Conditions on the roads are stable, and tourist traffic is quieter.
Summer is great for beach enthusiasts. There will be lively towns, lively events and perfect swimming conditions. Just anticipate some traffic — especially around coastal towns. In the winter, the roads are emptier. Inland areas tend to get chillier, but you’ll find more accommodation options.
Itineraries & Where to Stop
Inland Route (2–3 Days via Hume Highway)
Day 1: Sydney → Goulburn → Canberra
So buckle up your seat belt, and head south towards the Hume Highway, as your Sydney to Melbourne drive bgins. Two hours down the road from Sydney, you have a worthwhile stop at Goulburn. Here, you can visit the big Merino, a giant concrete ram that pays homage to the region’s wool industry, and stretch your legs. Snap a few pictures and maybe check out the gift shop. Then spend time in Goulburn’s heritage town centre — marvel at the well-preserved architecture while having a coffee break.
Your Sydney to Melbourne drive continues, and you’ll reach Canberra, the capital of Australia, in the afternoon. Well, there is a lot to see in Canberra. You can explore the country’s history at Parliament House, an impressive modern edifice with sweeping views. Take a moment at the Australian War Memorial, a fitting tribute to the nation’s servicemen and women. In the evening, walk or bike around Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra’s centerpiece. Depending on your time and preference, you may also want to visit National Gallery of Australia or Questacon – the National Science and Technology Centre.
Day 2: Canberra → Gundagai → Albury
On day two of your Sydney to Melbourne drive, you leave Canberra and head south. Gundagai, home to Australia's own Dog on the Tuckerbox statue, is worth a side trip, and is optional but very much recommended. Stop by for a photo with the iconic dog and to learn about the folklore surrounding it. Gundagai also has historic bridges worth looking at.
Back on the road, your first stop for the day is Albury, located at the New South Wales-Victoria border. When you arrive, you can take a stroll along the Murray River, one of Australia's major rivers. Or, visit the Albury Botanic Gardens, with collections of different plants and relaxing gardens. Even an overnight stop in Albury is a worthwhile break in your Sydney to Melbourne drive.
Day 3: Albury → Glenrowan → Melbourne
The last stretch of your Sydney to Melbourne drive will be at Glenrowan, a historically significant stop along the way. The small town is known as the final siege of Australia’s most famous bushranger, Ned Kelly. You can do a Ned Kelly history walk, walking in the footsteps of this legendary figure, and visit the local museum to learn more about his story and the events of Glenrowan.
After a deep dive into history, you'll make your way back towards Melbourne, arriving in the city in the afternoon. From famous laneways and street art to sporting venues and cultural institutions, this dynamic city has plenty to see. You will arrive in Melbourne mid to late afternoon. It’s the concluding point to the inland Sydney to Melbourne drive, but the stories you’ve gathered will last well beyond the destination.
Coastal Route (4–5 Days Via the Princes Highway)
The coastal Sydney to Melbourne drive is for nature lovers and slow travelers. It’s a soul-renewing route that encourages you to slow down, breathe deep, take in the scenery and discover places off the beaten track.
Day 1: Royal National Park → Grand Pacific Drive → Kiama
Get out of Sydney and into Royal National Park, less than an hour away. As the country’s first national park and the second itself ever established in the world, it’s a place well worth taking your time to visit. You can stretch your legs on the Forest Path, a short bushwalk, or take a swim at Wattamolla, where the lagoon kissed the sea.
Keep going south on the Grand Pacific Drive, where the Sea Cliff Bridge, about 160km south of Sydney, offers one of the most breathtaking views on the entire coast drive between Melbourne and Sydney. Remember to stop your Sydney to Melbourne drive at the lookout point and take a few photos.
In Kiama, give yourself time to see the blowhole in action, where seawater is shot high in the air through a natural cavity in the rock. Behind the property, a lighthouse and coastal walk reveal sweeping views of the ocean. Arrive in Jervis Bay before sunset, where some of the country’s most pristine beaches await. Hyams Beach — one of the whitest sand experience beaches on the planet — the perfect place to unwind for the evening. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see dolphins on a cruise out of Huskisson.
Day 2: Jervis Bay → Ulladulla → Batemans Bay → Narooma
Take a morning walk on the white sands of Jervis Bay before heading further south. Ulladulla, where you can stop off for a caffeine fix by the harbour or a leisurely brunch. If you have a bit more time on your hands, Ulladulla Headland, has some great coastal views and a short walk to Warden Head Lighthouse.
Then, head northeast to Batemans Bay. Cross over the Clyde River Bridge and enjoy the views of the Clyde River. This lively coastal town is great for a riverside picnic or paddleboarding. Nearby is Mogo Wildlife Park if you’re on a Sydney to Melbourne drive with kids or animal lovers.
You’ll arrive at Narooma in the late afternoon. This town is known for its sea creatures. Stroll the Mill Bay Boardwalk, where seals often sunbathe on the rocks and stingrays swim beneath. If you’re in the mood for an adventure, take a boat tour to Montague Island, where you can see penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat.
Day 3: Narooma → Bega → Eden
Depart Narooma and drive the scenic inland route to Bega, a town synonymous with cheese. Head to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre to taste local cheeses and discover the region’s dairy story. Set on rolling green pastures, this Sydney to Melbourne drive stop offers a taste of rural Australia.
From Bega, head toward Eden, a quiet town straddling steep cliffs above Twofold Bay. Between May and November, you may see migrating whales breaching into the distance. Head to the Eden Killer Whale Museum for an insight into the region’s whaling past, and fascinating tales about the relationship between whalers and killer whales. End the day with a dinner overlooking the bay, where waves crash softly against the rocks.
Day 4: Eden → Cann River → Lakes Entrance
Early morning, hit the road and head to Cann River. This sleepy township is the entry point to Croajingolong National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Make a quick diversion through the park for a walk in the rain forest — keep an eye out for lyrebirds, wallabies and even koalas.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Lakes Entrance, a classic holiday town at the meeting point of the Gippsland Lakes and the Southern Ocean. Stroll the footbridge to Ninety Mile Beach or eat fish and chips while pelicans congregate at the wharf. It’s a perfect spot to take a moment of rest and reflect on the journey up to this point.
Day 5: Lakes Entrance → Sale → Phillip Island → Melbourne
On your last day of Sydney to Melbourne drive, start with a gentle visit to the historic swing bridge at Sale. It is one of the oldest working bridges of its type in Australia, and is on the Thomson River. Take a stroll in the nearby Wetlands Walkway before heading west.
If you have time, head south to Phillip Island. Here, you can watch the renowned Penguin Parade, when the little penguins return to shore at dusk, to hundreds of little penguins waddling up after a day at sea. The Koala Conservation Reserve and the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit also provide exciting pit stops.
Finally, arrive in Melbourne. Whether you seek out one of the many bars on a rooftop to watch the sunset or head back to your accommodation, you’ll have completed the epic Sydney to Melbourne drive, an iconic and truly beautiful road trip in Australia.
The Essentials of Sydney to Melbourne drive
Before You Go
Decide whether you prefer a fast-paced inland drive or a more scenic coastal adventure. Once you know the route, plan stops for each day and reserve lodgings in advance — in peak seasons, especially. Download offline maps as building navigations through the areas with no signal. Always check the forecast and road conditions the day before you travel.
What to Bring
Your bare necessities are your driver’s license, registration and insurance papers. Consider carrying water, snacks, and layered clothing for diverse weather. Take if possible, your phone, your charger and a reliable power bank. It’s also wise to have a first aid kit, torch and printed maps should the worst happen.
Power & Vehicle Tips
Get your car serviced before your Sydney to Melbourne drive. Check oil, tyre pressure, and coolant. Fill your tank before long stretches with few gas stations. If you love your off-grid lifestyle but want to take advantage of a power outlet, a portable power station could be just what you need. With fast-charging capabilities and high output, devices like the BLUETTI AC200L are perfect for road trippers looking for reliable energy. It weighs a little more than 28 kg and can deliver 2,048Wh of power — enough to charge phones, laptops or even a mini fridge while you soak up the scenery.
On the Road
Don’t rush. Take breaks every two to three hours so your mind is fresh and your body alert during the Sydney to Melbourne drive. In rural areas, driving after dark is dangerous because of wildlife. Plan to reach your stops before dark. You can buy items from locals and follow town rules to help support local communities. Always take your litter home and leave places as you found it.
FAQs
How long is the Sydney to Melbourne drive?
The overland route takes approximately nine hours. With stops, the coastal route can take 12 to 14 hours or longer.
Is it possible to live in Sydney and drive to Melbourne in a day?
Yes, but it’s tiring. It could be safer (and more fun) to break it up over a couple of days.
How do I stay powered during the trip?
Use a power bank or pack up a mini power station like the BLUETTI AC200L. It helps charge quickly and keeps your essentials in action.
When is the best season to make the Sydney to Melbourne drive?
Spring and autumn are ideal. The weather is temperate, roads are less congested.
