Car Rental in Sydney
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 12:45 on 2021-01-27. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
English
Currency
AUD
Country code
61
Traffic direction
Left-hand
Speed limit out of town
80 - 100 km/h
50 - 62 mi/h
Speed limit within town
50 km/h
31 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Why rent a car in Sydney?
Sydney is a great place to experience by car. You’ll have the freedom to see this huge and sprawling city in all its diversity, traveling from inland neighborhoods to coastal parts, as well as to see the rest of the huge and hugely interesting New South Wales.
One-Way Car Rentals in Sydney
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Sydney and drop off in another city include:
- From Sydney to Brisbane - 67 offers from A$ 72.42 per day
- From Sydney to Melbourne - 34 offers from A$ 111.89 per day
- From Sydney to Cairns - 50 offers from A$ 106.47 per day
- From Sydney to Gold Coast - 50 offers from A$ 76.40 per day
- From Sydney to Canberra - 33 offers from A$ 83.76 per day
Top ways to enter Sydney
- Sydney Airport: The busiest in Australia, Sydney Airport hosts flights to and from all of the other continents of the world.
- Newcastle Airport: This small airports only hosts domestic flights, but as it is only two hours drive north, flying to Newcastle can be another good way to reach Sydney if you’re already in Australia.
- Canberra Airport (236 km / 147 mi): The capital city’s airport hosts a number of domestic flights, as well as routes to and from such large international hugs as Qatar and Singapore. It is about three hours drive southwest of Sydney.
Useful city facts
- Sydney has a humid subtropical climate with very warm summers and mild winters. Inland city districts are generally much warmer than the ones that are by the ocean and can experience extreme heat during the summer months.
- Although not the capital, Sydney is the largest city in Australia. More than 5 million people, or roughly every fifth Australian, live here.
Top destinations and activities
- Sydney Harbour. Once the location of the first European settlement in the area, Sydney Harbour’s Circular Quay is now perhaps the most picturesque and the best known part of town. It is home of the world-famous as Sydney Opera, as well as to a number of other landmarks and attractions.
- SS Ayrfield. Once an old coal and oil ship and then a written-off wreck, SS Ayrfield has impossibly turned into a floating forest of mangroves. The unique sight can be observed from the nearby shore of the Homebush Bay area where you can also find four other shipwrecks, as well as nature areas like Bicentennial Park, a system of parklands and mangrove wetlands.
- The Sydney Tower Eye. The highest point in Sydney and thus offering the best 360 views from its top, the Tower Eye offers a great impression of both how immense is Sydney and how sparsely populated the rest of the state is to this day.
- Art Gallery of New South Wales. One of the most important museums in Australia, Sydney’s main gallery is home to a wealth of fascinating paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other types of art. The gallery hosts the works of virtually all of the most notable Australian artists, as well as pieces by world-famous masters like van Gogh, Monet, and Rubens. There are also exhibitions dedicated to Indigenous Australian Art and Asian Art. Located in The Domain, a heritage area with plenty to see and do, the gallery can be easily reached from anywhere in the city centre.
Traffic and parking tips
- One of the largest road hazards in Australia are the wildlife. Take extra caution when driving in bad weather or after dark as this is when most of the collisions with wildlife take place.
- Mobile coverage is very rarely available outside of major highways and population centers, so take extra caution when traveling in nature areas.
- Another great risk when traveling outside of main highways is the heat. The temperatures can reach extremes very easily, especially during the summer months and in inland areas. Always stay properly hydrated and set out your route in advance to be able to supplement your water supplies.
- Driving under influence laws differ from territory to territory in Australia. In New South Wales, the legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers and drivers with provisional licences. Exceeding the limit can lead to large fines and a driver licence ban.
- The insurance and car documentation needs to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
- If you’re the driver, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
- The primary, nationwide emergency number in Australia is 000. The New South Wales Poisons Information Centre number is 131 126.
Toll roads
There are a number of toll roads in Australia, mainly in the states of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. In New South Wales, there are nine currently active toll roads, which is more than in the rest of the country combined.
Most toll roads in Australia use an “open roll system” with mainline barrier toll points. All toll roads in Australia use cashless payment system. You can purchase a prepaid pass for most toll roads. Some rental cars in Australia are equipped with an electronic toll responder the price of which is usually included in the rental price. Ask your car rental provider about it in advance.
Different toll roads are operated by different companies, so there is no nation-wide fee system in place.
For more information about the toll roads in the state of New South Wales, visit the website of the Royal Automobile Association (RAA) of South Australia.
Ideas for a day-trip
- Garigal. A protected national park located in the North Shore region that is technically still part of the city, Garigal is a great place to see the local flora and fauna, as well as to learn about the local aboriginal culture through the ancient cave paintings and rock engravings that you can find throughout the site. Located just 23 km (14 miles) from the centre of Sydney, Garigal can be reached in about 30 minutes.
- Manly Beach. The most beloved beach area of local Sydneysiders that’s located just a short ride from the harbour area, Manly Beach is famous for its beaches, watersport opportunities, and relaxed way of life. For many travelers, this is perhaps the most Australian part in the whole of Australia. Situated northeast of the city centre, Manly Beach is just 17 km (10.5 miles) away and takes 25 minutes to travel to.
- Blue Mountains. Located just west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains region is a unique and relaxing place not only because of its majestic scenery, but also for fun towns like Katoomba and Blackheath, two national parks, and the stunning Jenolan caves. Even if you won’t get to see a wild kangaroo or swamp wallaby, you’ll still come back happy and relaxed. Keep in mind that despite their higher elevation, the Blue Mountains can still experience extreme heat during Australian summer, so it’s good to set out your travel routes in advance and to always stay properly hydrated. About 100 km (60 miles) from Sydney, the Blue Mountains can be reached in 90 minutes by car.
Most popular rental types and cars
The most popular rental car type in Australia is economy, followed by standard and compact. The most popular rental cars are the Hyundai i20, the Kia Rio, and the Toyota Corolla.
Further destinations
- Hunter Valley. About three hours drive north of Sydney, Hunter Valley offers the impossible combination of being a paradise for both foodies and hikers. Its cheeses, oils, and restaurants that serve produce grown in the valley are famous far and wide, but they’ll taste even better after a full day of walking through eucalyptus fields and learning about local kangaroo and other wildlife populations. Some 240 km (150 miles) north of Sydney, the Hunter region can be traveled to in 3 hours and 20 minutes.
- Canberra. Although not located on the ocean and perhaps less spectacular than the huge cities of Australia, the capital can still be a fun place to visit thanks to its historical heritage, interesting museums, and vast outdoor areas.
- Melbourne. Sydney’s friendly rival is about nine hours drive south, but it’s still well worth doing the distance to experience another spectacular big city with its unique history, culture, and atmosphere. If the distance between these two still feels too big, take a break at the Kosciuszcko National Park or the Alpine National Park that’ll be on your way. The neighboring Namadgi National Park just south of the city is also worth a visit. Located some 280 km (174 miles) southwest of Sydney, Canberra can be traveled to in 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Car Rental Prices in Sydney
- Large cars - from $79 per day
- Medium cars - from $90 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $110 per day
- Premium cars - from $174 per day
- Small cars - from $71 per day
- SUVs - from $100 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
These are the things you can do to get a great rental car deal in Sydney:
- Compare rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit on the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Sydney is the cheapest in October when renting a car is about 59% cheaper than the yearly average.
Top 20 Cities near Sydney
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Brisbane Car Rentals from $13.57 per day744.3 km / 462.5 miles away
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Melbourne Car Rentals from $17.60 per day713.1 km / 443.1 miles away
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Gold Coast Car Rentals from $24.73 per day671.3 km / 417.2 miles away
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Richmond Car Rentals from $39.47 per day711.3 km / 442.0 miles away
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Launceston Car Rentals from $54.88 per day922.4 km / 573.2 miles away
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Ballina Car Rentals from $65.73 per day603.2 km / 374.8 miles away
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Canberra Car Rentals from $36.65 per day244.1 km / 151.7 miles away
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Marcoola Car Rentals from $39.85 per day828.4 km / 514.7 miles away
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Avalon Car Rentals from $58.43 per day763.3 km / 474.3 miles away
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Surfers Paradise Car Rentals from $91.92 per day686.1 km / 426.3 miles away
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Preston Car Rentals from $35.08 per day705.2 km / 438.2 miles away
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Newcastle Car Rentals from $58.09 per day133.1 km / 82.7 miles away
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Lismore Car Rentals from $31.48 per day593.5 km / 368.8 miles away
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Devonport Car Rentals from $70.84 per day914.0 km / 567.9 miles away
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Coffs Harbour Car Rentals from $31.27 per day433.9 km / 269.6 miles away
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Albury Car Rentals from $30.26 per day458.2 km / 284.7 miles away
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Port Macquarie Car Rentals from $34.29 per day312.0 km / 193.9 miles away
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Hervey Bay Car Rentals from $31.13 per day964.9 km / 599.5 miles away
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Wagga Wagga Car Rentals from $31.17 per day372.4 km / 231.4 miles away
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Toowoomba Car Rentals from $105.67 per day707.3 km / 439.5 miles away
Top 20 Locations near Sydney
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Sydney Airport Car Rentals from $23.58 per day8.2 km / 5.1 miles away
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Newcastle Airport Car Rentals from $58.09 per day133.1 km / 82.7 miles away
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Bathurst Airport Car Rentals from $38.09 per day153.9 km / 95.6 miles away
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Canberra Airport Car Rentals from $36.65 per day244.1 km / 151.7 miles away
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Taree Airport Car Rentals from $104.60 per day251.5 km / 156.3 miles away
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Parkes Airport Car Rentals from $38.09 per day288.2 km / 179.1 miles away
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Dubbo Airport Car Rentals from $38.09 per day307.7 km / 191.2 miles away
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Tamworth Taminda Car Rentals from $41.80 per day310.9 km / 193.2 miles away
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Port Macquarie Airport Car Rentals from $34.29 per day312.0 km / 193.9 miles away
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Tamworth Airport Car Rentals from $30.18 per day312.3 km / 194.0 miles away
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Cooma Polo Flat Car Rentals from $28.66 per day322.6 km / 200.4 miles away
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Merimbula Airport Car Rentals from $28.15 per day357.7 km / 222.3 miles away
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Wagga Wagga Airport Car Rentals from $31.17 per day372.4 km / 231.4 miles away
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Armidale Airport Car Rentals from $30.18 per day374.1 km / 232.5 miles away
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Narrabri Airport Car Rentals from $34.05 per day416.6 km / 258.8 miles away
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Coffs Harbour Airport Car Rentals from $31.27 per day433.9 km / 269.6 miles away
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Albury Airport Car Rentals from $30.26 per day458.2 km / 284.7 miles away
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Griffith Airport Car Rentals from $36.67 per day476.2 km / 295.9 miles away
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Grafton Airport Car Rentals from $104.60 per day488.6 km / 303.6 miles away
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Moree Airport Car Rentals from $34.05 per day503.9 km / 313.1 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in Sydney?
Car rental prices in Sydney vary a lot according to the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in Sydney
The best month to rent a car in Sydney is October (when prices for an Economy class start from $22.68). This is 48% cheaper than the yearly average and 68% cheaper than renting in March (when rental prices start at $71.79 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price.
What’s the usual rental length in Sydney?
Travel lengths vary from month to month: in May, travelers rent a car for an average of 16 days in September, the average rental period is 8 days.
Average Rental Length in Sydney
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Sydney?
While travelers visit Sydney year-round, the most popular month for renting a car is February, and the least popular is June.
Popularity of Car Rental in Sydney by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NoBirds | Toyota Corolla | 5 | 1 | Medium cars |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Toyota Corolla Sedan | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Mitsubishi Outlander | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| NoBirds | Mitsubishi Outlander | 4 | 4 | SUVs |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Hyundai Accent | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Suzuki Swift | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Mitsubishi Lancer | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Alamo | Mitsubishi Outlander | 4 | 3 | SUVs |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Hyundai Accent | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| EastCoast Car Rentals | Mitsubishi Outlander | 5 | 4 | SUVs |
Our Customers Reviews
KM
New Zealand
Hyundai i20
September 18, 2019
Allow plenty of time to pick it up
NL
Singapore
Nissan X-Trail
July 7, 2019
Sydney is a good location to travel to, from the nice cafes to the slightly longer drives out to Hunter valley n blue mountains the trip was defo worth it.
SZ
Australia
Suzuki Swift
June 27, 2019
Sydney is a very unique place to drive especially the city.
Male sure you check sings when parking and be sure as there are so many sings
CC
New Zealand
Hyundai Accent
May 23, 2019
In Sydney, best is to avoid toll . Use your GPS and set it to avoid tolls . Time difference between travelling under tunnels with tolls and roads without toll isn’t much.
HL
Singapore
Toyota Corolla Sedan
May 15, 2019
Sydney is easy to get around and have fairly good traffic conditions. It’s easier to get to tourist locations by car.
TC
Australia
Kia Rio
May 8, 2019
I am a local here and love this city!
TY
Australia
Suzuki Swift
April 18, 2019
cheaper and more convenient to hire a car than use public transport!
JW
United Kingdom
Hyundai i20
December 24, 2018
Drove south out of the city, so can't comment on driving in the city. found it easy to navigate the roads
WL
United States of America (USA)
Holden SV6
October 26, 2018
Fantastic time especially on the South Coast, Highlands, and Hunter Valley. The city is wonderful and a bit challenging to drive.
Top 12 Suppliers in Sydney in 2021
National
293568333
203 VICTORIA ST POTTS POINT
Enterprise
+61293568333
203 Victoria St, Potts Point NSW 2011
Europcar
+610282559050
70 Murray St, Sydney NSW 2000
Working hours
Mon:08:00-12:00
Tue:08:00-12:00
Wed:08:00-12:00
Thu:08:00-12:00
Fri:08:00-12:00
Sat:08:00-12:00
Sun:08:00-12:00
Keddy
+610292079400
Terminal Buildings Sydney Airport, Sydney NSW 2020
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
Avis
0283742847
All Terminals
Working hours
Mon:06:00-22:30
Tue:06:00-22:30
Wed:06:00-22:30
Thu:06:00-22:30
Fri:06:00-22:30
Sat:06:00-22:30
Sun:06:00-22:30
Alamo
283032282
Term Building Apt Drive Mascot
Working hours
Mon:08:00-20:00
Tue:08:00-18:00
Wed:08:00-18:00
Thu:08:00-20:00
Fri:08:00-20:00
Sat:08:00-13:00
Sun:08:00-13:00
Budget
0292079165
Mascot Airport Kingsford Smith Airport
Working hours
Mon:06:00-22:30
Tue:06:00-22:30
Wed:06:00-22:30
Thu:06:00-22:30
Fri:06:00-22:30
Sat:06:00-22:30
Sun:06:00-22:30
EastCoast Car Rentals
+611800474258 / +61755558908
Level 3, Park on King, 336 King Street, Mascot, 2020
Working hours
Mon:07:00-18:00
Tue:07:00-18:00
Wed:07:00-18:00
Thu:07:00-18:00
Fri:07:00-18:00
Sat:08:00-15:00
Sun:08:00-15:00
SIXT
+61755558908
5/191 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Alamo
293568333
203 VICTORIA ST POTTS POINT
GreenMotion
+61134733
Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach-Sydney, 242 Arden St, Coogee NSW 2034
Working hours
Mon:09:00-18:00
Tue:09:00-18:00
Wed:09:00-18:00
Thu:09:00-18:00
Fri:09:00-18:00
Sat:09:00-18:00
Sun:09:00-12:00
Ace Rent a car
61283381055 / 0296935381
4/221-223 O'Riordan St