Sydney–Melbourne by other means than flying

It's my understanding that nowadays most people travelling between Sydney and Melbourne would fly. (Correct me if I'm wrong.)

Besides being more environmentally sustainable, would it make much sense, economically or otherwise, to travel by rail or bus instead? That is, for someone who is not really in a hurry. If it would, what are the best options?

Specifically, how do prices of low-cost flights compare with trains/buses? Also, are there any convenient overnight services (with which one could save one night's accommodation cost)?

Best Answer

There are two trains per day between Sydney and Melbourne, one during the day, and one at night, run by CountryLink. On the overnight train, you can book into a 2 berth sleeping car, or try and sleep in a regular seat.

One thing to be aware of with the sleeper is that there's only the 1 coach with sleeper berths in it, the rest of the train only has normal seats, so you may need to book in advance if you want a bed as they're often fully booked!

I've taken the train the other way (Sydney to Brisbane), and it's slow but nice. Seats were comfy, the leg room was better than on a plane, and the buffet car was really good too (they somehow freshly baked scones for afternoon tea for example!)

If you book in advance, fares seem to go as low as $69 for one way (only valid on that one train). Walk on fares are between $110 and $130, depending on the time of year. I doubt you'd find a same day plane ticket for that price, so for last minute stuff it's very good!

Another option to consider is the East Coast Discovery Pass for $130. With this you have up to 6 months to make your way along the Sydney to Melbourne route, stopping off as much as you like. If you'd like to see bits of the country along the way, this is your best way to do it!