Is Albury in NSW or Victoria?

Albury is located in New South Wales, directly across the Murray River from Wodonga, Victoria.

How long is the drive to Albury?

The drive from McGraths Hill to Albury takes approximately 6 hours via the M31.

Yes, Albury Airport has regular flights from Sydney and Melbourne.

Is the train comfortable?

The XPT train features reclining seats and a buffet car, making it a comfortable way to travel.

Are there tolls on the way?

Yes, you will encounter tolls on the M7 Motorway when leaving the Sydney area.

Albury

Train Driving

McGraths Hill to Albury

Updated: 29 May 2026

The route from McGraths Hill to Albury covers roughly 530 kilometers, primarily following the M31 Hume Highway. This journey takes you through the scenic Southern Highlands and the rolling hills of the Riverina. Driving is the most popular choice, offering the freedom to explore towns like Holbrook and Gundagai. Alternatively, the NSW TrainLink XPT provides a direct rail link from Sydney Central to Albury Station. The trip typically takes 6 hours by car or 7.5 hours by train. Albury serves as a major gateway between New South Wales and Victoria.

Total Distance: 530 km driving distance; 450 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the M31 Hume Highway is the fastest, taking about 6 hours depending on traffic.

Cheapest Way

Booking an XPT train ticket in advance is the most budget-friendly option.

Compare McGraths Hill to Albury Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 30 mins	6 hours
Avg Price	70-110 AUD	90-140 AUD
Operator	NSW TrainLink XPT	Personal Vehicle
Route	Sydney Central Station to Albury Station.	M7 Motorway to M31 Hume Highway, passing Goulburn, Gundagai, and Holbrook.
Tip	The train offers a comfortable dining car and plenty of legroom for long-distance travel.	Visit the Submarine Museum in Holbrook for a unique historical experience.

Travel Tips

Rest Stops
Use the designated rest areas along the Hume Highway to stay alert.
Border Crossing
Albury sits on the border; be aware of local regulations if crossing into Wodonga, Victoria.
Dining
Albury has a vibrant food scene; try the local cafes on Dean Street.
Weather Prep
Albury can be very hot in summer and quite cold in winter; pack accordingly.
Booking
Always book your train tickets online to ensure availability during peak holiday periods.

Safety Tips

Speed Limits
Adhere strictly to speed limits, as highway patrol is active on the M31.
Driver Fatigue
Switch drivers if possible to maintain focus on the long highway stretch.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at night to minimize the risk of collisions with native wildlife.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle's tires and fluids are checked before embarking on this 500km+ trip.