NOTE: Distances given in round figures only - as between general areas

This is the route inland from Sydney to Canberra and Melbourne and while it is named as the Hume Highway in this Page it is a combination of Motorways, Freeways and one lane each way main roads. The latter are steadily being eliminated as the motorways are being extended.

Click on the Areas and Cities named below to read all about them and to find Homestays, Farmstays, B&B’s and Self Contained Accommodation.

Coming from the direction of Sydney, just over 2 hours driving will take you to the Southern Highlands, an area of rolling hills, picturesque villages and towns. This is a lovely area for rest and relaxation.

If a visit to Australia’s capital city Canberra is planned, then this city is just over 3 hours from Sydney or a good 7 or 8 hours drive from Melbourne.

Canberra is also able to be reached by a detour from this Highway, from either Sydney via the Federal Highway just south of Goulburn, or from Melbourne.

From either Sydney or Melbourne, the Hume Highway can be left and rejoined further on, once having visited Canberra.

From Melbourne the Hume Highway is left near Yass to turn onto Highway 25. It takes about 1 hour to reach Canberra.

From Sydney if visiting Canberra, once past Goulburn turn onto the Federal Highway (Highway 23) and drive for a further hour to Canberra

Once the Southern Highlands and Canberra have been left behind the next recommended stop is just inside Victoria at Beechworth in the Legends, Ned Kelly and Wine Country Area.

This Area has a fascinating mix of historic gold mining towns, Vineyards, Farmstays, Homestays, B&B’s, Self Contained Accommodation, and quality restaurants
It takes a good 4 hour drive from Canberra or the Southern Highlands to reach Beechworth.

From this Area it is at least 3 hours driving to Melbourne.