Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer at Central Station in Sydney.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 3.5 hours via the M31 Hume Motorway.

Do I need a booking for the train?

Yes, the XPLORER service requires a reserved seat.

Yes, the M7 motorway is a toll road.

Flights are available but driving is often more convenient for families.

Brooklyn

Canberra

Train Driving

Brooklyn to Canberra

Updated: 29 May 2026

The trip from Brooklyn to Canberra covers roughly 320 kilometers. You can drive via the M1 and the M31 Hume Motorway, which is the most direct route. Alternatively, take the train to Central Station and transfer to the NSW TrainLink XPLORER service to Canberra. The journey takes you through the Southern Highlands and the rolling hills of the ACT. It is a major route connecting the coast to the nation's capital.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 275 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, taking 3.5 hours, is significantly faster than the train service.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked well in advance, offers competitive pricing compared to fuel costs.

Compare Brooklyn to Canberra Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	3 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price	45-65 AUD	50-70 AUD fuel
Operator	NSW TrainLink	Personal Vehicle
Route	Central Coast Line to Central, then XPLORER to Canberra Station.	M1, M7, and M31 Hume Motorway.
Tip	Book your XPLORER seat in advance as it is a reserved service.	Stop in Goulburn for a break at the Big Merino.

Travel Tips

Booking
Book train tickets online via the NSW TrainLink website.
Fuel
Fill up in Sydney or Goulburn; fuel is often cheaper than in the ACT.
Weather
Canberra is cold in winter; pack layers if traveling between June and August.
Navigation
Use GPS as the M7/M31 interchange can be complex.
Parking
Most museums have paid parking; check for free zones near the city center.