The airline route between Sydney to Melbourne is the second busiest in the world. If you’re planning a trip around Australia then why not escape the crowds, skip delayed departures and say goodbye to extra luggage fees by hiring a campervan in Sydney. Stock up on snacks and bbq food, wind down the window and hit the road instead. Did someone say campervan road trip?
This relatively short road trip takes 9 hours and takes you inland via some lesser known cultural and foodie hotspots, across the state border from Victoria to New South Wales and through the nation’s capital Canberra. Read on for more ideas on what to see and where to stop while you’re on the road.
Sydney to Canberra
Stop 1 & 2
Approx drive time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Distance: 286 km
The drive south of Sydney takes you through the Southern Highlands.There’s lots to do in the this area so if you have the time we recommend that you take your time and stop off when you can. There are lots of great traditional Aussie towns such as Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Berrima, and Bundanoon – perfect places to pull up for a cake and coffee break or wander around small local shops and galleries.
If you want to spend time camping in this area then head to Kangaroo Valley, where you’ll find lots of great campsites on offer. While you’re in the area also consider visiting; Budderoo National Park, Carrington Falls, Wombeyan Caves or the Illawarra Treetop walk.
Canberra to Albury
Stop 3 & 4
Approx drive time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Distance: 340 km
Canberra is the nation’s capital and is home to some amazing galleries and museums and of course the Australian Parliament.  Here are some of the top places you should visit while you’re here:
- Museum of Australian Democracy
- Australian War Memorial
- National Gallery of Australia
- National Portrait Gallery
- Australian Parliament House
- Questacon
- Royal Australian Mint
- National Museum of Australia
The largest inland city in Australia also has some natural sights to see – so make time for a trip to Lake Burley Griffin, Mount Pleasant and Mount Taylor for beautiful views of the city skyline.
Head south from Canberra. This chilled out drive will take you straight down the M31 through small Australian country towns and across the state border from New South Wales to Victoria, before pulling to the city of Albury.
Albury to Melbourne
Stop 5
Approx drive time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 316 km
The city of Albury is located in Victoria.  In recent years it’s become known as an emerging destination for art and foodie lovers to visit. Spend a day wandering up and down the sculpture walk, visiting the MAMA modern art gallery, and grabbing a brew at one of the many trendy coffee shops.
Make the most of what this city has to offer by spending the night, so book yourself into one of the many campsites in the local area. Try the Big4 Albury Tourist Park or the Albury All Seasons Tourist Park. When you leave Albury make sure you lookout for the random submarine in the middle of Holbrook. This bizarre museum makes for a great road trip pic.
Hop back onto the M31 and make your way south for the final leg of this cultural road trip. Last stop Melbourne, a city renowned for being one of the hottest cultural destinations in the world. For more ideas on things to do when you arrive in Melbourne check out what’s on .
This inland road trip offers a perfect mix of food, culture and sightseeing. Hire a campervan in Melbourne, pack your bags, get set and go! Speak to the team at Travellers Autobarn for more details today.
If you want to read more of our Sydney adventures, come and explore our dedicated Sydney Road Trip section. Happy Exploring!
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