Is there a direct train from St Marys to Canberra?

No, you must travel to Sydney Central Station to catch the XPLORER train.

How long is the drive from St Marys to Canberra?

It takes approximately 3 hours via the M31 Hume Motorway.

What is the best highway to take?

The M31 Hume Motorway is the primary and most efficient route.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, the M7 and M4 motorways involve electronic toll charges.

Can I fly to Canberra from St Marys?

You would need to travel to Sydney Airport to catch a flight to Canberra.

St Marys

Canberra

Train Driving

St Marys to Canberra

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from St Marys to Canberra covers approximately 270 kilometers via the M31 Hume Motorway. Driving typically takes 3 hours depending on traffic exiting Western Sydney. Alternatively, you can take a train from St Marys to Sydney Central, then transfer to the NSW TrainLink XPLORER. This route traverses the Southern Highlands, offering scenic views of rolling hills. Canberra serves as the national capital, housing major cultural institutions and the Parliament House.

Total Distance: 270 km driving distance; 230 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the M31 Hume Motorway takes 3 hours, the fastest option.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups, costing roughly 50 AUD in fuel.

Compare St Marys to Canberra Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	3 hours
Avg Price	50-80 AUD	40-60 AUD fuel
Operator	NSW TrainLink	N/A
Route	St Marys Station to Central Station, then XPLORER train to Canberra Station.	M4 Western Motorway to M7, then M31 Hume Motorway via Goulburn.
Tip	Book your XPLORER seat in advance as they frequently sell out on weekends.	Avoid peak hour traffic on the M7 to save 30 minutes of travel time.

Travel Tips

Traffic Timing
Leave St Marys before 6 AM to avoid heavy congestion on the M7.
Fuel Stops
Goulburn is the best place to refuel and grab a coffee halfway.
Booking Trains
Use the Transport for NSW website to book your XPLORER ticket.
Weather Prep
Canberra is significantly colder than Sydney; pack a jacket even in summer.
Parking
Most major attractions in Canberra offer free or low-cost parking.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Take a break at the Marulan rest area to avoid driver fatigue.
Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos near the roadside, especially at dawn and dusk.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW for any accidents on the Hume Motorway before departing.
Emergency
Dial 000 for emergency services if you encounter a serious incident.