Sydney, a bustling metropolis set against the backdrop of iconic beaches and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. There are different ways to go sightseeing in Sydney. You could explore the city centre on foot or use public transport. But if you also want to see the stunning sites in the surroundings, we recommend you to hire a car. Renting a car in Sydney gives you the freedom to visit the surroundings without any restrictions in time or distance. That’s why there are many car rental companies with a wide range of services that vary in price. Here is what you need to know on renting a car in Sydney!
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Cheap car rental – Price comparison
To hire a car in Sydney or in any other Australian town, it is best to use a car rental comparison tool. You can compare all vehicle types and immediately book the most competitive vehicle (with NO extra cost). If you had to look at every car rental business website individually and compare them yourself, you would spend hours on it. Furthermore, price comparison sites often offer discounts that you normally wouldn’t get!
Requirements to rent and drive a vehicle in Australia
There are several conditions that must be met in order to be able to rent and drive a car in Australia:
- Be at least 21 years old (some companies have higher age limits).
- Hold an open license ( (international visitors may need an International Driving Permit or a translation of your drivers licence if not in English).
- Have a valid credit card for payment and security deposit.
NB: If you are under 25 you may incur a young driver surcharge and some car companies have a maximum age restriction of 75 years.
Car Rental companies and location
Main rental companies
Several reputable car rental companies operate in Sydney, some of the major players include:
- Budget: Known for its affordable rates and a wide selection of vehicles.
- Avis: Offers a blend of quality service and competitive pricing.
- Hertz: Renowned for reliability and a diverse fleet.
- Europcar: Provides a mix of economy and luxury options.
- Thrifty: Popular for its cost-effective solutions and good customer service
- Sixt: Offers a large choice of vehicles at affordable prices.
Where are the car rental companies located in Sydney?
These companies have offices located throughout the city, including at the airport, downtown, and in various suburbs, making it convenient to pick up and drop off vehicles.
The most convenient locations for renting a car in Sydney include:
- Sydney Airport: Ideal for those arriving by plane, with most major rental companies present.
- Central Business District (CBD): A central location for those staying in the heart of the city.
- Suburban Locations: Useful for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Rental prices in 2024
Rental costs vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the time of year. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from AUD 20 to AUD 100 per day for a standard vehicle. It’s often cheaper to book in advance online, and longer rental periods typically offer better daily rates. To give you an idea:
📅 Departing in July (low season)
🚘 Entry level car
⏱️ 1 week rental period
🏙️ Sydney city
⌛ Reservation 2 months in advance
🛑 Prices excluding extras and insurance
📅 Departing in December (high season)
🚘 Entry level car
⏱️ 1 week rental period
🏙️ Sydney city
⌛ Reservation 6 months in advance
🛑 Prices excluding extras and insurance
As you can see depending on the season, the price can double for the same vehicle.
Tips for renting a cheap car in Sydney
- Book in advance
- Use a car rental comparison tool
- Choose the agencies located at the airport (prices in the city are often more expensive)
- Usually prices per day decrease if you hire the vehicle for a longer period of time
- Travel in a group to share costs
- Compare additional costs per kilometre. A vehicle that costs more per day, sometimes turns out to be cheaper if the cost per kilometre is lower.
Visiting Sydney & its surroundings
Sydney
It’s recommended to visit the centre of Sydney on foot or using the public transport. Just like in all big cities, it’s complicated to drive around in the CBD. The price for parking is also extremely high and it’s often very hard to find a free spot.
More information on visiting Sydney: 48 hours in Sydney: what to do ?
Things to do around Sydney by car
Less than 30 minutes from Sydney
– Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is located north of Sydney at the Hawkesbury river mouth. The national park is an interesting mix of aboriginal history and beautiful scenery.
– Royal National Park is located south of Sydney, and is a magnificent natural park on the coast. Among other things, you can admire the famous Figure Eight Pools if the tide allows it.
– Featherdale Wildlife Park offers the opportunity to admire a huge mix of Australian animals. Smaller than the Taronga Zoo, it offers a closer encounter with the animals.
1 to 2 hours from Sydney
– Southern Highlands are situated about 1,5 hours south of Sydney. There are many great places to see such as vineyards, caves, national parks, and even a ghost town! The small town of Joadja, an old mining town, has been deserted since the beginning of the 20th century.
– Blue Mountains: Situated approximately 1,5 hours west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a must do in the area. They get their name from the blue haze coming from Eucalyptus trees. The surface of the park is 1,436km² so you won’t get bored!
– Jenolan caves: Located in the Blue Mountains, they are some of the world’s most spectacular cave formations.
– Morrisset Park is situated 2 hours from Sydney. It’s famous for its abundance of kangaroos!
– Hunter Valley is the oldest wine region of Australia. It is situated a mere 2 hours from Sydney. The region offers more than 150 wine cellars.
– Port Stephens is a large bay situated approximately 2 hours north of Sydney.
More than 2 hours from Sydney
– Canberra: Less known than Sydney or Melbourne, Canberra is the capital of Australia. It’s situated 3 hours from Sydney. There are many museums and government buildings to discover there.
– Jervis Bay: With its turquoise waters and fine white sand, Jervis Bay has one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. On the border of the bay, there’s the Booderee National Park. You can walk around here or head down to Hyams Beach, officially the whitest sand beach in the world!
Why Rent a Car?
Renting a car in Sydney offers several advantages:
- Flexibility: Explore at your own pace and on your own schedule.
- Convenience: Access areas that public transport doesn’t cover.
- Comfort: Enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own vehicle.
- Cost-Effective: Can be cheaper than relying on taxis or tours for longer stays or group travel.
In conclusion
Renting a car in Sydney can greatly enhance your travel experience, providing the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its stunning surroundings at your leisure. With a range of affordable options, it’s an accessible choice for budget-conscious travelers. Plan ahead, book early, and get ready to hit the road for an unforgettable adventure in and around Sydney.
Related Topic: Car rental Melbourne
