Sydney Airport Bus to Sydney City: Routes, Cost & Schedule
Taking the bus from Sydney Airport (SYD) is the most affordable option to reach the city. Sydney Buses operate routes directly from the airport precinct, with no station access fee unlike the train. This guide covers every route, fare, and step you need.
Quick Facts
Fares are Opal card prices (2026). Cash fares are ~30% higher. The bus avoids the $17.80 train station access fee, making it the cheapest land transfer option.
Bus Routes from Sydney Airport
| Route | Key Stops | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| 400 | Airport → Rockdale → Burwood → Strathfield | 40–55 min |
| 420 | Airport → Mascot → Green Square → Central Station | 30–40 min |
| M20 | Airport T1/T2 → Mascot → Redfern → City | 35–45 min |
| 350 | Airport → Tempe → Sydenham → Newtown | 25–35 min |
All routes depart from the ground-level bus stands outside T1 (International) and T2/T3 (Domestic) terminals. Check Transport for NSW real-time app for live departures.
How to Buy Tickets
- Opal Card (recommended): Tap on/off at the card reader on the bus. Cheapest fare, daily/weekly caps apply.
- Credit/Debit Card: Contactless Visa/Mastercard accepted on all Sydney buses since 2023.
- Opal Top-Up Machine: Located in both T1 and T2 arrivals halls — top up before boarding.
- Transport for NSW App: Load Opal credit digitally before you land to avoid queuing at machines.
Step-by-Step: Arrivals to Bus Stop
- 1Clear customs and collect luggage in the arrivals hall.
- 2Follow green "Ground Transport" or "Bus" signs past the taxi rank.
- 3Exit through the automatic doors to the kerb-side bus zone (ground level).
- 4Locate your route number on the signposted bus bays (T1: Bays A–D; T2: Bays E–G).
- 5Tap your Opal card or contactless card on the reader when the bus arrives.
- 6Tap off when you reach your destination stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the bus cheaper than the train from Sydney Airport?
Yes. The train charges a station access fee of ~$17.80 on top of the Opal fare. The bus has no access fee, making it $10–$15 cheaper per trip.
Do buses run 24 hours from Sydney Airport?
Selected night bus routes (N prefixed) run after midnight, but frequency drops significantly. For late-night arrivals, check Transport NSW for the latest timetable or consider a taxi.
Can I take luggage on Sydney Airport buses?
Yes — there are no size restrictions, but during peak hours the bus can be crowded. Fold-down luggage racks are not available, so keep bags in the aisle beside you.
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