🌾 How to Get to Forbes NSW From Sydney [2025 Guide]
Located in the heart of the Central West region of New South Wales, Forbes is a charming rural town famous for its historic heritage buildings, Lake Forbes, and annual Forbes Camel Races. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a family trip, or exploring NSW country towns, this guide covers all the best ways to travel from Sydney to Forbes in 2025.
🚗 Driving from Sydney to Forbes (Most Flexible Option)
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Forbes, giving you flexibility to stop at scenic spots along the way.
- Distance: ~380 km from Sydney CBD
- Driving Time: ~5 hours
- Route: Take the M4 Motorway west towards the Blue Mountains, continue on the A32 Great Western Highway to Bathurst, then follow the A41 Mid-Western Highway to Forbes.
- Highlights on the Way: Blue Mountains National Park, Bathurst (Mount Panorama), Cowra Japanese Garden
📍 Official Route Info: NSW Roads and Maritime Services
💡 Tip: Start early in the morning to enjoy breakfast in Bathurst before continuing to Forbes.
🚆 Train & Bus from Sydney to Forbes
While Forbes does not have a direct passenger train line from Sydney, you can take a train to Lithgow or Parkes and connect with a coach service.
Option 1 – Train to Lithgow + Coach to Forbes
- Train: Sydney Central → Lithgow (NSW TrainLink Blue Mountains Line)
- Coach: Lithgow → Forbes (NSW TrainLink Coach Service)
- Total Duration: ~7–8 hours
- Booking: NSW TrainLink
Option 2 – Train to Parkes + Bus to Forbes
- Train: Sydney Central → Parkes (via Dubbo on XPT or coach transfer)
- Bus: Parkes → Forbes (15–20 minutes)
🚌 Sydney to Forbes by Bus
You can travel entirely by long-distance coach from Sydney to Forbes.
- Operator: NSW TrainLink Regional Coach
- Duration: ~7–8 hours
- Departure: Sydney Central Station (Coach Terminal)
- Cost: From AUD $45–$75 one-way
💡 Tip: Buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and include rest stops along the route.
✈️ Flights from Sydney to Forbes
Forbes does not have a commercial passenger airport. The nearest airport with flights from Sydney is Parkes Airport (PKE).
- Flight: Sydney (SYD) → Parkes (PKE) with Rex Airlines
- Duration: ~1 hour 10 minutes
- Transfer to Forbes: 35 km (~30 minutes) by taxi, rental car, or local shuttle service
- Booking: Rex Airlines
📋 Sydney to Forbes Travel Options Summary (2025)
| Travel Mode | Duration | Approx. Cost (AUD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car (Self-Drive) | ~5 hours | $80–$120 (fuel) | Scenic road trips & flexibility |
| Train + Coach | 7–8 hours | $50–$90 | Comfortable public transport option |
| Bus (Direct Coach) | 7–8 hours | $45–$75 | Budget-friendly long-distance travel |
| Flight to Parkes + Transfer | 2–3 hours | $200–$350 | Fastest but most expensive option |
🌤 Best Time to Visit Forbes NSW
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Ideal weather and wildflowers in bloom
- Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp air and golden foliage along Lake Forbes
- Summer: Warm temperatures, perfect for water activities on the lake
🗒 Travel Tips for Sydney to Forbes
- Book NSW TrainLink services early for cheaper fares.
- If driving, check Live Traffic NSW for road updates before departure.
- Plan fuel stops in Bathurst or Cowra, especially on public holidays.
- For events like Forbes Camel Races, book accommodation months in advance.
📖 FAQs
Q1: How far is Forbes from Sydney?
Forbes is about 380 km west of Sydney, taking around 5 hours by car.
Q2: Is there a train from Sydney to Forbes NSW?
There is no direct train; you can take a train to Lithgow or Parkes and connect via coach.
Q3: What is the cheapest way to get to Forbes from Sydney?
The cheapest option is a NSW TrainLink regional coach, costing around $45–$75.
Q4: Can you fly from Sydney to Forbes?
No direct flights are available — the nearest option is flying to Parkes Airport and taking a short road transfer.