Getting Around Sydney

The best way to see Sydney’s many sights and attractions is on foot, coupled with use of the public transport system. Buses and trains will take visitors to within easy walking distance of anywhere in the inner city. They also serve the suburbs and outlying areas. Passenger ferries provide a fast and scenic means of travel between the city and the many harbor side suburbs. Of the many composite and multiride tickets available, most visitors will find it best to invest in one that includes all three modes of public transport.

DRIVING IN SYDNEY

Driving is not the ideal way to get around Sydney: the city road network is confusing, traffic is congested and parking can be expensive. If using a car, it is best to avoid the peak hours (about 7:30-9:30am and 5-7:30pm).

Overseas visitors can use their usual driving licenses to drive in Sydney, but must have proof that they are simply visiting and keep the license with them when driving. Parking in Sydney is strictly regulated, with fines for any infringements. Vehicles can be towed away if parked illegally. Contact the Transport Management Centre if this happens. There are many car parks in and around the city.

Also look for blue and white “P” signs or metered parking zones, many of which apply seven days a week, but it varies from council to council.

TAXIS

Taxis are plentiful in the city: there are many taxi ranks and taxis are often found outside the large city hotels. Meters indicate the fare plus

any extras, such as booking fees and waiting time. It is customary to round the fare up to the next dollar.

SYDNEY BY BICYCLE

While cycling is permitted on all city and suburban roads, visitors are advised to stay within designated cycling tracks or areas with light motor traffic. Centennial Park is a popular cycling spot. Helmets are compulsory by law. Those who wish to take advantage of Sydney’s undulating terrain can seek advice from Bicycle New South Wales. Bicycles are permitted on CityRail trains but you may have to pay an extra fare.

TRAMS

IN 1997, Sydney reintroduced trams to its transport system, after an absence of 36 years. A fleet of seven trams travels around the downtown area, from Central Station to Lilyfield via Pyrmont, taking in a large proportion of the area’s sights. Tickets can be purchased at

Central Station.

COMPOSITE TICKETS

Sydney’s transport is good value, particularly with one of the composite tickets available from State Transit Information and Ticket

Kiosks or railway stations.

Travel Ten tickets, as the name suggests, entitle you to make ten bus journeys. Travel- Passes allow unlimited seven day travel on Sydney’s buses, trains and ferries within stipulated zones. The Sydney Pass allows three, five or seven days’ travel in any seven-day period on buses and ferries.

A Bus Tripper allows one day’s unlimited travel on all buses. Day Passes allow one day’s unlimited travel on both buses and ferries.