Transportation and city rides: Moving around in Australia

Australia is situated right between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is a gorgeous place and as a result, tourists from all over the world have thronged the country for years. Australia is a very modern and developed country. It has an excellent transportation system. Reaching Australia is very easy and travelling within the country is equally simple, thanks to the excellent transport network. Ta to know more about the ways in which you can travel when you decide to go for a holiday to this wonderful country.

Best way to reach Australia

• Did you know?

  • Originally, people travelled to Australia as a punishment. Convicts and social outcasts were sent away to Australia, which is a significant distance away from mainland Europe, to live a life of loneliness and detachment. They were usually sent for years, and at times, never allowed to return back.

You can reach Australia by air, and sometimes, by water too. Here’s a detailed look:

1. By air-

It is easiest to reach Australia by air and a vast majority of the people who travel to the country, choose air travel. The country has some of the largest and most modern airports in the world including the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, the Melbourne Airport, the Perth Airport, the Hobart Airport and the Canberra Airport, among others. Flights from all major global destinations arrive at these airports so flying into Australia is never a problem.

Travel tip: There are many direct flights from the major Indian cities to Australia. However, if you are looking for more affordable options, look for low-cost carriers that have hopping flights, halting at places such as Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Denpasar, etc.

2. By water-

There are some world-renowned cruise liners that have dedicated Australian cruise lines. Book one of these cruises and enjoy a bonus vacation before you reach the wonderful shores of the country. You can board a cruise ship to Australia from Singapore, Dubai and many other big ports around the world.

Best transport options from the airports in Australia

• Did you know?

  • Most of the large Australian cities such as Melbourne and Sydney have airport express bus services that take passengers from the airport to the city centre. These buses are frequent and allow you to travel in an economical way.

Once you land in Australia, you can take the following modes of transportation to reach the main city centre:

1. App-based taxi

Private taxis, though a bit costlier than trains, are one of the best forms of transport you can choose from at the airport. You can find taxi stands or hail one down the road, not too far from the airport’s main exit.

2. Bus

This is one of the best ways to travel from the airport in Australia. You get dedicated airport bus services in almost all cities and these buses pick you up directly from the airport terminal. The buses are comfortable, affordable and have services such as free wi-fi.

Things to note: A quick tip is to book your airport bus tickets online. You can pre-book your transfers. This is convenient as you may not have change in the local currency as soon as you land to pay for the tickets.

3. Train

There are train services directly from the airport terminus to the city centre in some cities of Australia such as Sydney and Perth. However, the service is not available in every city so if you are landing in Melbourne or Hobart, you will not get a train to take you from the airport to the city.

Best way to travel within Australia/ Types of transport available

• Did you know?

  • The bus services in most of the large Australian cities run 24/7. However, the frequency may differ at different times of the day and night, so it is best you refer to the timetable.

  • You can get a smart card if you stay in one city for a long duration. Just refill the card and tap it in any bus or train you take, without having to buy individual tickets.

For local transport, you can rely on the following when you travel to Australia:

1. Taxi

Taxis are readily available in all Australian cities and smaller towns too. You can simply flag down a cab on the road or you can book a cab service like Uber through your phone. There are many private taxi services too, through which you can make prior bookings. You can hire a car for the whole day as well.

Things to note: If you have a friend or a relative living in the Australian city you are visiting, ask them to drive you around, as that can save you a lot of money.

2. Train

The train system in Australia is among the best in the world. You get both inter-state train services and local train services too. Most of the large cities have a metro railway service that makes short travels within the city very easy and quick. You can book the train tickets online and enjoy a smooth journey.

3. Domestic flights

Travelling between the cities in Australia is never a problem as there are several, high-frequency flights operating between these places. You get economic tickets when you book in advance, so plan your trip well and get all the bookings done beforehand.

Things to note: The countryside of Australia is extremely beautiful and clean. If you have time on your hands, consider renting a car and driving down from one city to the other. You will experience a road trip like never before and it will enhance your Australian holiday experience by leaps and bounds.

4. Ferries

Ferries are another interesting mode of travel in Australia. You can take a ferry within the city and also between cities. Some cities like Sydney have an Intra-city ferry service, while other services connect you from one town to the other. The ferries are available all across the country and the rides can be as long as 10 hours or as short as 30 minutes.

Things to note: Ferries are great modes of transport in Australia, but they can be time-consuming. If you have limited time for your Australian vacation, look to take a short ferry route as a joyride rather than a main source of travel.

5. Trams

Trams offer an old-world charm while also being a quick and comfortable ride from one point to the other. Trams are available in many Australian cities such as Melbourne and Adelaide.

6. Bus

The bus service in Australia is the most reliable mode of transport. Several buses are available from all points, including airports and railway stations. Most of these services work around the clock. The buses are very safe and convenient and you can travel within a city or between cities on a bus.

Things to note: There are different networks operating trains, buses and ferries in the Australian cities. Smart cards usually work on all modes of transport, so getting a smart card can help you move around smoothly.

Things to consider when choosing transport options in Australia

• Quick note:

  • The traffic rules are extremely strict in Australia. If you are hiring a self-drive vehicle, make sure you have an international driving licence. Also, get well acquainted with the local traffic rules so that you follow them and have a smooth experience.

Listed below are some key factors to consider when choosing the ideal mode of transport in Australia:

1. Distance

A very crucial point to remember is the distance you have to cover. You usually have a fixed itinerary and the time is not freely available when you are on your vacation. If you have a short vacation, rely on quick modes of transport like flights between cities and rides between places in a city. This will help you save time and cover more places and tourist attractions.

Travel tip: Apart from a few cities like Sydney and Adelaide, the Australian streets don't see a lot of traffic congestion. It is therefore very enjoyable to take cabs and buses within the cities as you can reach your destination fast. Avoid travelling during the peak hours as the traffic congestion gets bad at those times.

2. Budget

Work out your budget and see how much you can spend on transportation. If you are on a tight budget, opt for trains or buses between cities instead of flights. Similarly, rely on buses inside the city rather than hailing a cab every time. You may even consider walking within the city as you explore the tourist places.

3. Convenience

You will have to choose a mode of transport that is suitable for you. For example, if you are travelling with old parents or small babies, constantly hopping on and off buses may be difficult. Getting a cab or booking a whole-day car service can be of greater convenience.

Travel tip: You can rent bicycles in most Australian cities. If your time and skills permit, rent bicycles and explore the city in a relaxed and inexpensive manner. There are dedicated cycling tracks, so safety is never a concern.

Tips for travelling within Australia

• For first-time travellers:

  • Don't forget to download the necessary travel-related apps when you visit Australia for the first time. The crucial ones include GPS maps, cab services like Uber, etc. These will help you move around smoothly.

Here are some handy tips to make your Australian vacation enjoyable:

1. Language

English is the official language of Australia and is the most commonly spoken one as well. If you speak English, you won't face any communication problems in the country. If not, download a translation app on your phone and use it to communicate with the locals.

A quick tip: Australians are very friendly and they talk in a casual manner. Banter, swearing and slang are also a part of their culture. Do not take offence or get into arguments with the locals if you hear someone swearing at you, as that may be done in a friendly and offence-free manner.

2. Documentation

Whenever you step out of the hotel, don't forget to carry your important documents like your passport and some cash. Also, get a good travel insurance plan and keep it handy so that you can use it if there is any requirement whatsoever.

A quick tip: Fraudulent people are everywhere. Do not get into a local, unregistered cab or a private car as you may be robbed or scammed. Rely on the registered taxis or buses when you travel around the cities.

3. Luggage

Pack lightly, and have a small backpack to carry within the city. If you rely on public transport services like the bus or metro railway, travelling with heavy bags can be very inconvenient for you and the other passengers as well.

4. Research

Do a lot of research about your travel options before you reach Australia. This will help you to make the right transport choices when you reach your destination and save a lot of time, effort and money in the process.

How to save money when travelling within Australia?

Here are some great tips to make your Australian stay more economical:

1. Several concessions and discounts are available for people of different ages. For example, senior citizens can travel for free on the Gold Coast Light Rail service. Children below the age of 4 do not have to pay for any ticket on any public transport in the country. If you are travelling with your family, do not buy tickets for people who don't need it.

2. Public transport, such as the bus, tram, ferry or train, is the best form of travel within the country of Australia.

3. Self-drive cars are available for rent. You can consider a long distance trip on such a car, but make sure you get a good deal. Speak to several service providers, compare the rates and then find the best option.

4. Transportation in Australia is expensive as compared to the rest of the world. You need to make a proper budget and include it in your main budget before you reach the country. This will help you to have a realistic idea of how and where you can spend money when moving around the cities.

Conclusion

As you can clearly see from the points mentioned above, there are some excellent transport and ride options all across the country of Australia. Take your pick, depending on your needs and preferences and explore this wonderful country in a smooth and convenient manner.

FAQs

1) How to get around Sydney?

Sydney is one of the most popular cities in Australia and has an excellent public transport system. You can get taxis, buses, trams, ferries, metros, bicycles, etc to move from one place to the other in Sydney.

2) How far is Melbourne town from the airport?

The centre of the city is just about 20 km from the airport. You can reach the centre in no time, especially if you travel during the non-peak travel times.

3) What are the cheapest transport options available in Australia?

The local transport fares are on the steeper side. If you are travelling on a very strict budget, you can try walking or renting a bicycle. It may take more time, but you will experience the places more calmly and definitely save a lot of money.

4) Can I take a ferry from one city to the other in Australia?

Yes, several Australian cities are connected via ferries. You can take a ferry from Brisbane to Davenport, from Sydney to Newcastle, etc.