Is there a direct train to Canberra?

No, you must take a train to Sydney and transfer to the NSW TrainLink XPLORER service.

How long is the drive?

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

Yes, the M7 and M2 motorways in Sydney involve electronic tolls.

What is the best route?

The Pacific Highway to the M31 Hume Motorway is the most efficient route.

No, all flights from Coffs Harbour to Canberra require a connection in Sydney.

Sawtell

Canberra

Flight Driving

Sawtell to Canberra

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Sawtell to Canberra covers approximately 750 kilometers via the Pacific Highway and the M31 Hume Motorway. Driving is the most flexible option, taking roughly 9 hours through scenic coastal and inland landscapes. Alternatively, you can drive to Coffs Harbour Airport for a connecting flight to Canberra. The route passes through major hubs like Newcastle and Sydney, offering diverse stopover opportunities. Expect varied terrain ranging from coastal plains to the elevated Southern Tablelands.

Total Distance: Driving distance 750 km, straight-line air distance 520 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Coffs Harbour via Sydney takes 4.5 hours including layover time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option for groups or families, costing approximately $150 in fuel.

Compare Sawtell to Canberra Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	9 hours
Avg Price	$350-$600	$120-$180 fuel
Operator	QantasLink	N/A
Route	Coffs Harbour (CFS) to Canberra (CBR) via Sydney (SYD).	Pacific Highway (A1) to M31 Hume Motorway.
Tip	Book early to secure lower fares on the Sydney-Canberra leg.	Avoid Sydney peak hour traffic by taking the M7 orbital motorway.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Refuel in major towns like Port Macquarie or Goulburn to avoid higher prices in remote stretches.
Traffic Alerts
Use the Live Traffic NSW app to check for roadworks on the Pacific Highway.
Parking
Canberra city parking is paid; look for free weekend parking in the Parliamentary Zone.
Weather
Canberra is significantly colder than Sawtell; pack layers even in summer.
Rest Breaks
Stop every two hours to manage fatigue on the long drive south.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially on rural roads near Canberra.
Fatigue
Share the driving duties if possible to maintain alertness on the 9-hour journey.
Emergency
Keep a physical road map as mobile reception can be patchy in the Southern Tablelands.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and coolant are checked before departing the coast.