Which route is better — coastal or inland?

The coastal Princes Highway is the scenic choice with beaches, national parks and charming towns. The Hume Freeway is faster (about 9 hours straight) but mostly farmland and truck stops. For a campervan trip, the coast wins easily.

How long does the Sydney to Melbourne drive take?

Non-stop via the Hume it's about 9 hours. The coastal route is 10–11 hours of driving time. We recommend 5–7 days to enjoy the stops, or 3 days at a minimum.

Can I add the Great Ocean Road to this trip?

Absolutely — the Great Ocean Road starts just west of Melbourne and is one of Australia's most famous drives. Add 2–3 days and 250 km to your trip for the full Twelve Apostles experience.

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Coastal scenery on the Sydney to Melbourne road trip route

One-Way Route880 km (coastal) / 870 km (inland)From $45/day

Campervan Hire Sydney to Melbourne

Compare 20+ brands for a one-way campervan trip from Sydney to Melbourne.5–7 days recommended — 880 km (coastal) / 870 km (inland) of unforgettable Australian road.

880 km (coastal) / 870 km (inland)

9–10 hours drive

5–7 days recommended

From $45/day

Compare Campervan Prices — Sydney to Melbourne

Select “Sydney” as your pickup and “Melbourne” as your drop-off to see one-way prices.

Why Drive Sydney to Melbourne?

This 880 km (coastal) / 870 km (inland) route is one of Australia's great campervan drives. Here's what makes it special.

Two stunning route options — the coastal Princes Highway or the inland Hume

Jervis Bay's white-sand beaches and dolphin cruises

Eden and the Sapphire Coast — whale watching and pristine coastline

Wilsons Promontory — mainland Australia's southernmost tip

Easy to combine with a Great Ocean Road extension from Melbourne

Key Stops: Sydney to Melbourne

Must-see places along the route, from your starting point in Sydney.

Sydney

Start

Royal National Park

40 km from Sydney

Coastal walks and wedding-cake rock just south of Sydney.

Jervis Bay

200 km from Sydney

Hyams Beach, dolphins and crystal-clear kayaking.

Batemans Bay

280 km from Sydney

Oysters, fishing and family-friendly beaches on the South Coast.

Eden & Sapphire Coast

480 km from Sydney

Whale-watching capital, stunning empty beaches.

Lakes Entrance

600 km from Sydney

Gateway to Gippsland Lakes — Australia's largest inland waterway.

Wilsons Promontory

780 km from Sydney

Iconic national park with bushwalking and secluded beaches.

Melbourne

Destination

One-Way Campervan Hire: Sydney → Melbourne

One-way fees between Sydney and Melbourne are typically $100–$250 with most brands. Because vehicles constantly shuttle between Australia's two largest cities, relocation deals are common — check for specials that can reduce rates to as low as $1/day.

Brands Available in Sydney (Pickup)

Brands Available in Melbourne (Drop-off)

Insider Tips for the Sydney to Melbourne Drive

The coastal Princes Highway is slower but far more scenic than the Hume Freeway inland.

Stock up on fuel and supplies before the stretch between Eden and Lakes Entrance.

Wilsons Promontory campgrounds book out months ahead in summer — reserve early.

Tolls apply on Sydney's motorways — set up an electronic pass before departure.

Allow an extra 2–3 days if you plan to drive the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne.

Sydney to Melbourne — Frequently Asked Questions

Budget campervans start from around $45/day. The typical total for a 5–7 day coastal trip (hire + fuel + camping) is $600–$2,000 depending on the vehicle and time of year. One-way fees are usually $100–$250.

Going the Other Way?

The reverse route is equally spectacular. Compare prices for the return trip.

Ready for Your Sydney to Melbourne Adventure?

Compare 20+ campervan brands, find the best one-way deal, and hit the road.