Is there a direct train?

No, public transport between these two locations is very indirect.

Yes, the M7 and M4 are both toll roads.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 90 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Is Penrith in the Blue Mountains?

It is located at the foot of the Blue Mountains, often considered the gateway.

Can I use an Opal card?

Yes, but it is only useful for the train portion of the trip.

Mittagong

Penrith

Train Driving

Mittagong to Penrith

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Mittagong to Penrith spans approximately 105 kilometers. The most practical way to travel is by car, taking the M31 Hume Motorway and connecting to the M7 Westlink, then the M4 Western Motorway. Public transport is possible but requires multiple transfers, typically involving a train to Campbelltown, a bus to a major hub, and another train to Penrith. This journey takes you from the Southern Highlands through the outer suburbs of Sydney to the foot of the Blue Mountains.

Total Distance: 105 km driving distance, 85 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the M31 and M7 is the fastest, usually taking 90 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical and cost-effective way when considering the time saved.

Compare Mittagong to Penrith Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	$18-$25	$25-$35 fuel + tolls
Operator	NSW TrainLink / Sydney Trains	Personal Vehicle
Route	Southern Highlands Line to Campbelltown, then bus/train connections.	M31 Hume Motorway, M7 Westlink, and M4 Western Motorway.
Tip	Public transport is not recommended for this route due to long transfer times.	Ensure you have an active e-tag for the M7 and M4 tolls.

Travel Tips

Toll Planning
Use the Linkt toll calculator to estimate your costs before you depart.
Traffic Apps
Use Google Maps or Waze to navigate around accidents on the M4 motorway.
Rest Stops
Stop at the service centers on the M7 if you need a break during the drive.
Parking
Penrith has several large shopping centers with ample parking options.
Weather
Penrith can be significantly hotter than Mittagong in summer; dress accordingly.

Safety Tips

Motorway Vigilance
The M4 and M7 are high-speed roads; stay alert and avoid distractions.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and fluids are checked before a long drive on the motorway.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the number for roadside assistance handy in your vehicle.
Night Driving
Be cautious of heavy trucks on the M31 at night; maintain a safe following distance.