Sydney Airport Transportation & Transfer

By Andrew Lewis on 31 Aug 2023

For most international arrivals to Australia, your point of entry will be the bustling Sydney Airport (SYD). Serving the city of Sydney and the state of New South Wales, it’s a major hub for Australia’s flagship airline carrier Qantas.

Anywhere between 30 and 40 million passengers pass through this international gateway each year, making it the busiest airport in Australia. It also happens to be the oldest continually operating commercial airport in the world, welcoming travelers Down Under since 1902.

Whether you’re flying into Sydney for classic experiences, like climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge or taking in a show at the Sydney Opera House, or using the city as a jumping-off point for other Australian adventures , you’ll need to find your way around the airport first. Navigate Sydney Airport and its connections to the city with this handy guide. (Flying into Melbourne instead? We’ve got you covered there too.)

Sydney Airport Fast Facts

  • Name: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
  • Code: SYD
  • Terminals: Three (Terminal One: international; Terminals Two and Three: domestic)
  • Airlines: 59
  • Services: Currency exchange, dining, shopping, ATMs, WiFi, accommodations, lounges, tourist-tax refund

How Long Does It Take to Get to Sydney Airport?

Located in the suburb of Mascot on Botany Bay’s northern shore, Sydney Airport is roughly six miles south of downtown Sydney. By car, getting to the city center takes about 20 minutes, but it can take longer during morning or evening rush hour.

Getting Between Sydney Airport Terminals

The international terminal (Terminal One) is set apart from the domestic terminals (Two and Three). The complimentary T-Bus shuttle connects the two, running approximately every half hour. The ride between terminals takes about 10 minutes. Sydney Airport shuttle service starts at 5:30 am, departing from Terminal One, and the last shuttle leaves Terminal One at 9:30 pm.

Another option is the Airport Link, which connects the international and domestic terminals between 5:00 am and midnight every day of the week. A one-way ticket costs AU$8.60, and the ride only takes a couple minutes.

If you’re in a hurry or it’s outside operating hours for the Sydney airport shuttle or link, you can still connect between terminals via taxi or bus. These services do cost, though, starting around AU$1.60 for the bus and AU$17 for a taxi. (More details on both below.)

Getting to and From Sydney International Airport

Options for Sydney Airport transfers span a variety of transportation modes, from budget-friendly public transit to fast and efficient taxi services.

Taxis and Rideshares

You’ll find taxis and rideshares at all three terminals. With door-to-door service, a private transfer to the city center costs an average of AU$45 to $55, though rates vary by destination and traffic. Included in your fare is the AU$5.10 airport toll. You may also have to pay for any tolls along the route into the city.

For taxis, you can either prebook a ride or head to one of the taxi stands at your terminal. Rideshare pick-ups are restricted to designated pick-up areas at each terminal to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.

Public Transit

There are several mass-transportation options for a Sydney Airport transfer to the city center or surrounding suburbs.

Bus

There is no direct bus line from Sydney Airport to the city center. However, Route 420 from Sydney Buses passes through Terminal One and Terminal Three, with bus stops on the arrivals level. This route heads out to the Burwood suburb.

Parking and Car Rentals

For international travelers, parking is available at the Terminal One–adjacent to the P7 parking structure, starting at AU$9.90 for 15 to 30 minutes of parking. Domestic travelers can park close to Terminals Two and Three in the P2 and P3 parking areas. Rates start at $9.90 for half an hour. At both international and domestic car parks, rates go up to seven or more days. Valet and business parking are also available.

For domestic travelers, budget-friendly parking can be found at the Blue Emu car park, starting at AU$25 for one to two hours. A seven-day stay at Blue Emu costs AU$160, compared to AU$300 or $400-plus at the other car parks.

In all three terminals, you’ll find rental-car services, like Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Pickup and drop-off locations vary by terminal.

Preparing for Your Australia Trip

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting an Australia visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to Australia, including local laws, health and safety, local culture and customs, and the option of extending your stay, visit our Australia content hub.