Travelling by the Brisbane to Sydney train turns a routine trip into an unforgettable adventure. With beautiful scenery and the promise of greater comfort, the journey becomes as memorable as the destination.
Whether you’re newly arrived in Australia or simply exploring, Remitly knows that finding practical and affordable travel choices can make a big difference. In this guide, we share everything you need to know about planning your train travel from Brisbane to Sydney with the XPT train service.
Why take a train between Brisbane and Sydney?
The Sydney-Brisbane rail corridor connects two of Australia’s major east coast cities.
While flying is faster, the route between these two metropolitan areas has become one of the most popular train journeys in the country. The iconic experience offers stunning coastal and countryside views, a more pleasant ride, and no airport security queues.
Brisbane to Sydney by train: the essential facts
Wondering how long the trip is or when you’ll arrive? Here’s some important basic information about the train ride between Brisbane and Sydney:
- Distance: 913 KM
- Travel time: 14 hours
- Frequency: One service per day in each direction. Brisbane to Sydney runs during the day, while Sydney to Brisbane is overnight.
- Price: $70–250 AUD
- Baggage allowance: One piece of hand luggage and one checked bag in economy class, or two in first class.
Planning your train travel
Several factors determine when to make the train trip from Brisbane to Sydney, or vice versa. Here are some things to consider:
Season
The best time of year to plan your journey largely depends on what you want to see.
Spring is often a great time to go. Days are warm but not hot, with less humidity and fewer storms than in summer. Plus, you may see blooming flowers out of your window.
Summer offers lush green landscapes, but be ready for hot, humid days. It’s also peak tourist season and the school holidays, so trains may be busier.
Autumn has mild and pleasant weather, with fewer crowds than in summer. Plus, you’ll avoid the heaviest rain season of northern New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland, usually from February to March.
While it snows in winter, the weather in many places remains mild. Temperatures in Sydney rarely drop below 7°C, and Brisbane is even warmer. If you don’t mind cooler evenings, this is the season to enjoy the trip with fewer tourists around.
XPT train booking: tickets and pricing
You can book tickets for the XPT (Express Passenger Train) in several ways:
- Through the Transport NSW website
- Over the phone using the NSW TrainLink call centre (13 22 32, or +61238140210 if calling from abroad)
- In person at a station or from a sales agent.
Booking in advance helps ensure availability and cheaper seats, and booking online gets you a 5% discount. Tickets are usually available up to six months in advance.
However, concessions are available for various groups:
- Pensioners
- Seniors
- DVA Gold Card holders
- Students
- Job Seekers
- Asylum seekers
- Discovery Pass holders
If your plans change, you’ll usually receive a full refund if you cancel more than seven days before departure. If you cancel within seven days, you’ll still likely receive a refund, but you’ll need to pay a $5.50 AUD fee per passenger.
Ticket classes on the XPT
When booking, you can choose between economy and first-class tickets. You can also book a sleeper car for overnight journeys, but only from Sydney to Brisbane. This facility is available for passengers who make a booking over the phone.
Compared to economy, first class offers more legroom, more spacious seats that recline further, a quieter carriage, and one more piece of checked luggage. You can expect to pay about $40–60 AUD more in first class than in economy.
The sleeper class has double bunks for two people. Even if you travel alone, you’ll be charged for two “spaces,” while two children under 10 sharing a bed only pay a single fare.
The sleeper car offers:
- An enclosed room with windows
- Seats that convert into a single bunk bed at night
- Turndown service with bed linen, towels, and a complimentary toiletries pack
- Toilet with overhead shower shared with the cabin next door
- Complimentary breakfast pack
Sleeper fares range between $220 and $250 AUD for one-way trips. Though this is the priciest option, it’s ideal if you want to arrive rested and refreshed. Plus, it’s an experience that may only be available for a few more years, as future XPT trains will no longer include sleeper cars.
What to expect onboard
Now that you’re booked and ready to go, here’s what you can expect on your east coast train journey.
Departure and arrival information
On your travel day, check departure and arrival status to see if there are any delays. Arrive at least 30 minutes early, or a bit sooner if you’re checking luggage, since check-in closes 30 minutes before departure.
If you’re boarding in Brisbane, you’ll get on at Roma Street station at platform three. You can easily access the station via bus or train. The train leaves Brisbane at 6:00 a.m. and arrives in Sydney at 8:10 p.m.
In Sydney, you’ll get on at Sydney Central Station on platforms one, two, or three. You can access the station via metro, tram, bus, or light rail. The train leaves Sydney at 2:47 p.m. and arrives at 4:53 a.m.
Facilities and services
On the train, you’ll enjoy a wide range of amenities, such as:
- Buffet car with snacks, hot meals, and beverages—including alcohol
- Accessible toilets
- Air conditioning
- Overhead and under-seat luggage storage
You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks on board, but can only drink alcohol bought in the buffet car.
The current XPT trains are from the 1990s, so they don’t have charging ports or Wi-Fi. Cell service is also spotty throughout the journey. But the currency fleet will soon be replaced with new cars, projected to begin service in 2027. These will have charger ports, Wi-Fi, aeroplane-style overhead luggage storage, tray tables suitable for laptops, and a more modern buffet car.
Scenic highlights along the route
If you’re planning to take in some beautiful scenery on your long journey, here are some recommendations for the best views and stops along the Brisbane-Sydney railway.
Nature from your window
Sit on the side of the train facing the coast for the best views of these top highlights from the area:
- As the train hugs part of the NSW North Coast, you can see the Pacific Ocean in certain sections.
- Near Coffs Harbour and Yamba, you’ll see beautiful beaches, headlands, and estuaries.
- The Clarence Valley and other nearby areas of Northern NSW give views of subtropical rainforests, rolling hills, and rivers.
- Between major stops, the route passes through farmland, including sugar cane fields and grazing paddocks.
- If you take the Brisbane to Sydney morning service, you can watch the sunrise over the coastal plains.
- On the Sydney to Brisbane afternoon route, enjoy the sunset along rivers and farmland as you approach northern NSW.
Recommended stops on the way
This trip could easily become an exploration of Australia’s eastern coast with several stops along the way.
Sydney: Australia’s largest city is packed with things to do. Admire iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, visit world-class museums, or experience nature at Bondi Beach or on a day trip to the Blue Mountains.
Newcastle (Broadmeadow Station stop): Historic city with a cliff-top coastal walk, a unique ocean pool called Bogey Hole, and a wildlife park with kangaroos, koalas, and walking trails. If you want to stay longer, head inland to the Hunter Valley Wine Region.
Taree: Nestled along the Manning River, in the heart of the Manning Valley, Taree is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Browse the Manning Regional Art Gallery or see Ellenborough Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere.
Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its friendly and active lifestyle. Sunbathe at one of its famous beaches or Big Banana Water Park, support local businesses at Harbourside Markets, or explore the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.
Grafton: This historic town, on the bank of the Clarence River, features stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Starting from the end of October to the beginning of November, locals celebrate the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, where over 1,700 trees bloom with rich purple blossoms.
Casino: Known as the “Beef Capital of Australia”, Casino has plenty of events, restaurants, and museums celebrating and serving all things meat. But you can also ride the Casino Miniature Railway with your family through bird-rich Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands, or spot rare marsupials at the Platypus Pool.
Brisbane: The capital of Queensland has something for everyone. Climb Story Bridge, explore secluded islands, or cuddle a koala at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Travel tips for a comfortable journey
Here are our top tips to make your journey as smooth as possible:
- Bring some cash just in case. Reception can be patchy along the route, so the card reader at the bar might not always work.
- Take a portable charger, or two. Since the current trains don’t have power outlets, you’ll want to bring plenty of juice for your electronics.
- Prepare your entertainment. While you’ll definitely want to take in the scenery, download some films and TV series onto your devices to pass the time. Consider bringing non-electronic entertainment as well, like books or crossword puzzles, to save some battery.
- Pack a travel pillow, earplugs, an eye mask, and a light blanket, and you’ll likely sleep much better.
- Walk around the train periodically to reduce stiffness.
- Bring a refillable water bottle, as long journeys can be dehydrating.
- Keep a digital or printed copy of your ticket handy for inspectors.
Comparing train travel vs. other transport options
You can also travel between Brisbane and Sydney via bus, plane, or car.
Greyhound Australia operates a twice-daily overnight bus service between Brisbane and Sydney. Jetstar, Virgin, and Qantas Airways each run multiple flights a day. If you have or want to rent a car, you can make the drive between the two cities.
Here’s a comparison chart, so you can easily see the differences between each option:
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Frequency |
| Train | 14 hours | $70–250 AUD | 1/day |
| Car | 10–11 hours | $150–180 AUD for fuel and tolls | Any time |
| Bus | 17 hours | $50–180 AUD | 2/day |
| Plane | 1.5 hours | $50–200 AUD | 35/day |
While flying is the quickest option, the train may offer a more eco-friendly, scenic, and comfortable experience.
Taking the Brisbane to Sydney train is a great way to avoid airport and bus stress while enjoying a unique travel experience. Whether you’re travelling for adventure, relaxation, or simply convenience, this route is a memorable way to see a slice of Australia.
FAQs
How long does the XPT train take from Brisbane to Sydney?
The XPT train journey from Brisbane to Sydney typically takes around 14 hours.
Can I take my bike or surfboard on the XPT?
Yes, but there are some rules and fees. You must book in advance, and bikes have to weigh under 20kg total, be disassembled, and be placed in a special bike box. You’ll also need to pay a fee of $12.10 AUD. Check the NSW transit website for exact dimensions.
Are pets allowed on the train?
No, most pets aren’t allowed on the XPT, but certified service animals are welcome if you arrange this in advance and bring the proper documentation. Therapy, facility, and emotional support animals aren’t considered certified service animals.
What is the ticket refund or cancellation policy?
If you cancel more than seven days before departure, you’ll usually receive a full refund. Cancellations within seven days are still refundable, but you must pay a $5.50 AUD fee per passenger. If you miss a train, you can’t get a refund but can rebook on the next available service for a fee. Refunds may not be available for discounted tickets.
Are XPT trains wheelchair accessible?
Yes, XPT trains include wheelchair-accessible carriages with ramps, reserved spaces, and accessible toilets in the Buffet and saloon carriages. First class has three wheelchair seats and two wheelchair spaces available. Not all stations are fully accessible, so it’s a good idea to check in advance and plan your route carefully.