Is there a direct train to Lismore?

No, the rail line to Lismore is no longer operational for passenger services.

How long is the drive from Mittagong?

The drive takes approximately 9 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, you will encounter tolls on the M7 and M2 motorways in Sydney.

Can I fly directly from Mittagong?

No, Mittagong does not have an airport; you must travel to Sydney Airport.

What is the best road to take?

The M1 Pacific Motorway is the most efficient route for the majority of the journey.

Mittagong

Lismore

Flight Driving

Mittagong to Lismore

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Mittagong to Lismore spans approximately 750 kilometers via the M1 Pacific Motorway. You can drive the entire distance in roughly 9 hours, passing through Sydney and Newcastle. Alternatively, take the Southern Highlands Line train to Sydney Central, then fly from Sydney Airport to Lismore Regional Airport. This route traverses the scenic Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. Expect heavy traffic near Sydney and the Central Coast during peak hours.

Total Distance: 750 km driving distance; 620 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Sydney Airport to Lismore is the fastest, taking 4 hours total including transfers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing approximately 150 AUD in fuel.

Compare Mittagong to Lismore Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	250-450 AUD	120-180 AUD
Operator	Rex Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Train from Mittagong to Sydney Central, Airport Link to SYD, flight to Lismore.	M31 Hume Motorway to M7, then M1 Pacific Motorway through Newcastle and Coffs Harbour.
Tip	Book your Airport Link train ticket using an Opal card for convenience.	Stop at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour for a quick break.

Travel Tips

Opal Card
Ensure you have a topped-up Opal card for the train journey from Mittagong to Sydney.
Fuel Stops
Refuel in major towns like Port Macquarie to avoid higher prices in remote stretches.
Traffic Alerts
Use the Live Traffic NSW app to check for roadworks on the M1 Pacific Motorway.
Booking Flights
Book Rex Airlines tickets at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.
Accommodation
Book Lismore hotels early if visiting during the Lismore Show period.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Take a 15-minute break every two hours when driving long distances.
Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially on regional roads near Lismore.
Weather
Check for flood warnings in the Northern Rivers region during the summer months.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local Lismore police station number in your phone before departing.