Is there a direct train?

No, you would need to change trains in Sydney.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 9.5 hours depending on traffic.

Yes, the M7 and M5 motorways are tolled.

Wollongong does not have a commercial airport for flights from the north.

The final stretch into Wollongong via the Princes Motorway is very scenic.

New Italy

Wollongong

Driving

New Italy to Wollongong

Updated: 26 May 2026

Traveling from New Italy to Wollongong involves a long-haul drive down the New South Wales coastline. You will cover roughly 820 kilometers, primarily following the Pacific Highway (M1). The route bypasses the Sydney CBD via the M7 and M5 motorways to reach the Illawarra region. This journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours depending on traffic flow through the Sydney metropolitan area. You will experience a transition from the lush Northern Rivers to the industrial and coastal beauty of Wollongong.

Total Distance: 820 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the M7 and M5 motorways is the fastest route, taking 9.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical and cheapest option for this specific route.

Compare New Italy to Wollongong Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

9 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$140 - $200

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Pacific Highway (M1) to Sydney, then M7, M5, and M1 (Princes Motorway) to Wollongong.

Use the M7 motorway to bypass Sydney city traffic entirely.

Travel Tips

Toll Roads
Ensure your vehicle has an active E-tag for Sydney motorways.
Traffic Avoidance
Avoid the M5 motorway during morning and afternoon peak hours.
Coastal Stops
Stop in Port Macquarie for a coffee break halfway through the journey.
Parking
Wollongong city center has paid parking; check for free street parking zones.
Navigation
Use a GPS with real-time traffic updates to navigate Sydney's complex motorway network.

Safety Tips

Speed Cameras
Be aware of numerous speed cameras on the Pacific Highway.
Fatigue
Stop at designated driver reviver stations along the Pacific Highway.
Weather
Coastal roads can be slippery during heavy rain; adjust speed accordingly.
Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure and oil levels before starting this long-distance drive.