Public Transport

Getting around Sydney is cheap and easy with Sydney's 3 major forms of public transport: bus, train and ferry.

Sydney (State Transit) Buses

Sydney buses will get you around Sydney's attractions with minimal fuss. Click here for the Sydney Buses website that includes timetables and route information. The "get me to a beach!" option. 

Sydney (City Rail) Trains

Great Aussie Backpackers is situated just 2 minutes walk  from Kings Cross tube station. From there you're just 2 minutes from the city or 10 minutes to Sydney Harbour. Refer to the City Rail website for more information.

Sydney (Harbour) Ferries

What a great way to explore Sydney Harbour! Jump on a ferry to Manly or take a lazy ride to Parramatta in Sydney's west. Tickets are cheap, so there's no excuse to miss out on a famous Sydney Harbour sunset! Visit the Sydney Ferry website here.

If you're pushed for time...

Combining Sydney's modes of transport, why not grab an Explorer Pass? This is a great way to see Sydney's famous harbour and beaches if you have limited time. Visit the Sydney Explorer website for more information. 

Now that you know how to get around, here's a short list of things to do in and around Sydney

Harbour Bridge Climb or Walk

We guarantee some of the best views in Sydney! You can choose from day or night climbs and climbs continue even if it's wet (great fun in the rain!). If your budget won't stretch to a climb, take a walk across the bridge instead - it's free.

Taronga Zoo

Not only is Taronga Zoo a world-class zoo, it also offers some of Sydney's best harbour views. Catch a ferry across the harbour and enjoy a day with Koalas, Kangaroos and many other native Australian animals. Ask our staff for zoo vouchers and get 20% off admission.

Bondi to Bronte Beach Cliff Walk

A favourite amongst locals on the weekends, this 25 minute coastal walk allows you to capture Sydney's magnificent coastline and enjoy a relaxing drink when you reach Bronte Beach. There's great Fish 'n' Chips at Bronte, too!

Sydney Tower Observation Deck

Catch the high-speed elevator to the top of Sydney and get ready to be blown away by amazing 360° views. If you're really daring, you can walk out onto the glass deck, giving you the feeling of walking on air high above the streets of Sydney! Admission fees apply.

Diving or Snorkelling on Sydney's Beaches

Bondi, Manly, Clovelly - these are just 3 of Sydney's popular diving or snorkelling hotspots. Get in touch with any local dive company (there are hundreds all over Sydney) or speak to us about the best places to buy inexpensive masks and snorkels to DIY.

The Blue Mountains at Katoomba

Located 2 hours drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a must-see and a worthy day-trip from our hostel. You can join a day-trip tour bus or do it on your own - getting there is easy and walking trails await the adventurous.