It goes without saying that Sydney is an exciting city packed with things to do year-round. From the bustling city centre to the stunning coastal views, the Sydney CBD really has something for everyone.
With so much going on, however, getting around Sydney can seem overwhelming for the uninitiated. Thankfully, it doesn’t take too long to master Sydney roadways or get to grips with the city’s diverse public transit system, which happens to include not just buses and trains but also light rails and even ferries.
If you’re looking to relocate from the Northern Beaches region to Sydney’s inner suburbs, then heed the advice we’ve outlined below. This guide will help you get around Sydney like a local, easily and in style.
Here’s everything you need to know when planning to drive, ride, or even sail through Sydney.
Driving
If you’re planning to drive, then it’s worth preparing ahead of time as Sydney’s roads are not for the faint of heart. Sydney’s road network is efficient and well-engineered; however, it can be difficult during peak times. Being prepared is the key to avoiding any unnecessary issues while driving in Sydney.
It’s also important to keep the costs of car ownership in mind when determining whether owning a car is the best option for you as a new Sydneysider. For those living and working in the CBD, you may be able to get around solely with public transport. If you absolutely do need a car however (i.e. for visiting family in Greater Sydney), then we highly recommend keeping your costs low by looking at fuel efficiency and perhaps even opting to buy using flexible car loans rather than purchasing a new vehicle outright.
Here are some other cost and time considerations you’ll need to keep in mind when driving around Sydney.
Toll Roads
Many major highways and bridges across Sydney have tolls, The Harbour Bridge and the M2 particularly have tolls for anyone wishing to drive. To avoid fines, get yourself an e-tag or set up a casual day pass.
Parking
In the CBD, parking can be a challenge and can come with a hefty price tag all on its own. This is why it can be advised to park your car at a local public transport station and travel into the city using a bus or train. Driving around the Manly area is relatively easy, but as with most of the city you can struggle when looking for parking. There are parking options on the Manly Wharf, but they do fill up quickly. Backup options include the Manly national Car Park and Whistler Street Car Park. Using apps like Parkopedia in Sydney will make your efforts looking for a park a lot easier.
Traffic
Sydney is a dynamic city and a very busy one as well. This means that the traffic conditions can change quickly. To reduce your risks of getting stuck in heavy traffic, avoid using motorways during rush hour and be aware of what school zones apply in the area you are driving.
Sydney traffic trends can also be observed when using navigational apps like Google Maps. Using Maps or any other GPS app that has live traffic updates enabled, you can adapt to changing traffic conditions as they unfold when driving through the Sydney CBD or Sydney’s inner suburbs.
Public Transport
As mentioned, Sydney offers a dynamic range of public transport options to get you where you need to go when you need to be there. Between the trains, buses, ferries and light rail, Sydney’s expansive public transport network has you covered when journeying to anywhere around the harbour.
Opal Cards
The key to Sydney’s public transport is the opal card. Available at most stations, shops and online your opal card is used to pay for your public transport use and can be topped up for use across all forms of public transport. It’s as simple as tap on when you get on and tap off when you get off.
Trains
Sydney’s extensive train network connects the CBD to the suburbs and even reaches out into the blue mountains. Trains are usually the quickest way to get around especially during the peak use times. Key stations to familiarise yourself with before traveling to Sydney are Central Station, Town Hall and Circular Quay.
Buses
Where trains cannot get you, buses will. Bus routes run across Sydney connecting the city and the outer suburbs. The Northern Beaches including the manly area are well connected by buses, the B-line bus runs between Manly Wharf and the Sydney CBD. Plan your journey carefully as buses can be affected by the traffic and travel times can vary as a result. Apps like TripView allow you to get live information of buses and track arrival times so that you can accurately plan your journey.
Ferries
Sydney’s ferries not only get you to your destination – they’re also a great way to experience Sydney from all its many shores, including our coastlines here within the Northern Beaches region. Us Northern Beaches residents know all too well that the Manly Ferry offers a scenic ride across Sydney Harbour, allowing you to get stunning views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge – and all without having to pay for a boat tour of the harbour.
There are two options when choosing a ferry: the regular ferry services which are a bit slower and allows you to enjoy the view at a scenic pace, or the fast ferries, which as the name suggests are faster and will get you across the harbour a lot faster. For new Sydneysiders who are looking to do a little sightseeing, you’ll find the regular ferries to be a low-cost alternative to boat tours or even driving from port to port.
Light Rail
The newest addition to Sydney’s public transport network, the city’s light rail system only covers parts of the city that are not covered by the train network. The light rail system is best for those traveling in the Darling Harbour or Chinatown area. Simply put, the light rail is ideal for weekend sightseeing in the CBD or if your office or workspace is just a touch too far from the closest CBD train station to justify walking.
Conclusion
Whether you are a commuter or traveling around to enjoy the sights, Sydney is sure to have a transport option or two that suits you. With just a bit of planning and preparation, you’ll no doubt find yourself traveling Sydney like a born and raised Sydneysider in no time at all.