The fast-paced energy of Sydney can daunt some tourists. But if you want to save cash in the New South Wales capital, resist the urge to simply jump in a taxi.
The city has several affordable, and even free, transport options.
When staying right in the heart of Sydney, the free CBD shuttle bus is your best option. Buses complete a loop every ten minutes, touching down at key points like Central Station, Circular Quay, the luxurious Queen Victoria Building mall, and the Sydney Museum.
If you’re venturing further afield, the Explorer buses are your best bet. The Sydney Explorer bus visits 27 of the city’s most popular landmarks, including the Opera House, Darling Harbour, and Royal Botanic Gardens. There’s also a Bondi Explorer for tourists wanting to hit the beach. You can simply hop off the Explorer buses when something looks interesting, knowing it’ll be only 20 minutes before the next one comes along. You’ll travel in air-conditioned comfort, and probably learn something along the way thanks to the onboard commentary. One-day passes cost $40 for adults, $20 for children, and $100 for families. Anyone taking an extended trip may save money by choosing a multi-day ticket. These three, five, and seven-day passes include travel on both Explorer buses and other public transport around the city.
The monorail doesn’t stop at as many places as the buses, but this sky-high railway is a lot of fun to ride. Families may also find they unexpectedly save money by purchasing a day pass. Along with 24 hours of unlimited travel, the ticket includes $100 worth of coupons for Sydney’s kid-friendly tourist attractions and restaurants.
Many tourists spend money on expensive cruises and tours to see Sydney Harbour, but the locals know it’s much more affordable, and just as impressive, from the ferry. Sydney Ferries travel from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo, the beach suburb of Manly, North Sydney, and other destinations around the harbour. Round trips cost less than $10 a piece, but if you’re planning several journeys you may benefit from a DayTripper pass. This offers 24-hours of unlimited travel on ferries, buses, and even some trains.
While Sydney’s public transport prices are always reasonable, it’s cheapest to travel on Sundays. Dubbed Family Funday Sundays, travel anywhere on New South Wales’ trains, buses, and ferries costs just $2.50 per person. With the networks taking in destinations like the Central Coast, Newcastle, and Southern Highlands, this deal allows families to see more of the state for less.
