travelling to broken hill

Sydney to Broken Hill road trip itinerary

A Sydney to Broken Hill road trip is one of the most epic drives in NSW. This complete itinerary will take you on a perfect NSW Outback drive!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today. He has been a journalist for more than 20 years and loves exploring different parts of Australia.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today and has been a journalist for 20 years.

Last updated: December 22, 2021

Each day of the Sydney to Broken Hill road trip

Jump down to a particular day - or keep reading for my complete Sydney to Broken Hill itinerary.

• Day 1: Sydney to Mudgee • Day 2: Mudgee to Dubbo • Day 3: Dubbo to Cobar • Day 4: Cobar to Broken Hill • Day 5: Broken Hill to Mungo • Day 6: Mungo to Hay • Day 7: Hay to Temora • Day 8: Temora to Sydney

When it comes to long drives in New South Wales, there’s nothing more epic than a Sydney to Broken Hill road trip!

This 1200-kilometre drive (in just one direction) takes you through the full range of landscapes from the glittering coast to the blood red Outback. Along the way, you’ll find some incredible sights and some unforgettable characters in a part of the country that so few have seen.

And, when you consider that most people actually do this as a round trip journey from Sydney to Broken Hill and then back a different way, it’s actually 2400 kilometres of constant discovery.

If you’re considering doing a road trip from Sydney to Broken Hill, you’re probably wondering where the best places to stop are. Well, the good news is that I’ve done this trip myself and have worked out all of the answers to your questions.

I’ve put together this Broken Hill road trip itinerary based on what’s interesting to see along the way, not simply the most practical way to drive. If you follow these tips, you’re going to see some of the best places in New South Wales.

There is a luscious wine region, a futuristic museum, a scary old gaol, a dusty mining town, a World-Heritage-listed national park, endangered animals, and even fighter jets. I told you this road trip would be epic!

Is there a train from Sydney and Broken Hill?

Yes, there is a train from Sydney to Broken Hill called the Broken Hill Outback Explorer, but it only goes once a week (to Broken Hill on Monday, then back to Sydney on Tuesday). It takes about 14 hours.

On other days, you can get the train to Dubbo and then transfer onto a coach. That trip takes about 16 hours.

But the joy of doing a road trip to Broken Hill, rather than the train, are all the things that you can explore along the way!

How long is the drive from Sydney to Broken Hill?

The drive from Sydney to Broken Hill is about 1200 kilometres and takes about 13 hours, regardless of whether you take the northern or the souther route. But I wouldn’t recommend doing it non-stop.

In fact, I would suggest stopping overnight at least twice to make the journey more enjoyable (and potentially even more if you want to explore this part of New South Wales).

Where should I stop between Sydney and Broken Hill?

There are lots of places to stop between Sydney and Broken Hill – it all depends on how much time you have and what you’re interested in.

Along the northern route, popular rest stops are Mudgee, Dubbo, and Cobar. Along the southern route, people often stop at Wagga Wagga, Hay, and Mungo National Park.

But if you want more details, you’ve come to the right place – that’s what this whole itinerary is all about!

Is Broken Hill worth visiting?

Yes, definitely! Broken Hill is a fascinating Outback city that has so much to offer. But it’s the road trip to Broken Hill that I think is even more enjoyable than just the city itself. It’s a real adventure with a huge amount of variety, and is a fantastic way to see more of New South Wales.

For this itinerary, I’m assuming that once you have driven from Sydney to Broken Hill, you’re going to want to go back. The good news is that there are two ways you can go that are almost identical in length, so you can do a loop without having to retrace your steps.

So the first important question is how long should you take for a Broken Hill road trip? For this suggested itinerary, I have given details about eight days of driving. However, you will probably want to (and I would recommend you) spend longer on the whole trip, staying in some of the stops for a couple of nights to see them properly.

I think the perfect duration for a round trip from Sydney to Broken Hill and then back to Sydney is about two weeks. At the end of the article, I’ll give you my suggestions for how I would plan those days to make the most of each of the stops along the road trip.

You can see the route that I’m going to recommend on the map below:

As you can see, the first leg takes a northern route through the NSW Central West, into Dubbo, then through Cobar to Broken Hill. You’ll move from the dry agriculture lands into the ochre tones of the Outback, through mining towns and some quite stark Australian landscapes.

The southern route comes through the dramatic Mungo National Park (a highlight) but then quite quickly hits the greenery of the Hay Plain and then the colours of the lush Riverina region.

Both routes are really different so, if you were planning to continue on from Broken Hill rather than loop back, you can choose whichever route you like. My suggested itinerary will still work for you.

So, let’s get into it – an epic NSW road trip that is full of adventure!

Sydney- Mudgee

4 hours of driving (270 km)

The first leg of the Broken Hill road trip gets us out of Sydney, over the Blue Mountains, and into the Central West of New South Wales. The land gets a bit browner, the trees a bit more sparse, and agriculture stretches out from the roads.

I would suggest stopping for the night in Mudgee, a charming heritage city surrounded by wineries and with a strong food scene. But if you’re looking for an alternative, it doesn’t really add any driving time to instead take the road through Bathurst and Orange and stay in one of those cities, before continuing to the next destination in Dubbo.

On today’s drive…

As you pass through the Blue Mountains, there are plenty of places to stop. If you need a coffee or a quick bite to eat, the first town you’ll hit is Glenbrook and I would recommend popping into Kickaboom or The Church .

A bit further along at Lawson, you can grab a coffee and a pastry without a detour at the Black Cockatoo Bakery (the almond croissant is worth it!) At Leura and Katoomba, you can drive about five minutes off the highway to see the view of the Three Sisters. There are lots of options for food and drink in both towns – for some specific suggestions, you can read my story about the best things to do in the Blue Mountains .

Just before you get to Mudgee, you can do a short detour to the historic pastoralist town of Rylstone. As well as seeing the old building, the highlight here is a yum cha restaurant 29nine99 that does some of the best dumplings west of the Great Dividing Range. It’s great for lunch so you can hit the ground running in Mudgee.

Mudgee has a long heritage, from its official founding in the 1830s, through to the Gold Rush in the decades after, and then a prosperous agricultural hub. In the city centre, you’ll find beautiful historic buildings and a welcoming community feel. There are cool cafes and I love it when the flowers bloom in spring.

But it’s the wineries around Mudgee (and the associated restaurants) that are the highlight now. There are about 40 cellar doors and many of them have created stunning outdoor venues where it’s easy to spend an afternoon. There’s also now a distillery and a brewery.

There are also some small but interesting art galleries, plus national parks that can be reached by car. It’s a place that feels nice to spend time in. For lots more details, have a look at my story about the best things to do in Mudgee .

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: I would recommend spending at least 24 hours in Mudgee before moving on to the next destination. If you arrive late in the afternoon, you might want to stay two nights so you can have a full day of seeing the sights – and do some wine tasting without having to get back in the car!

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MUDGEE

With so much heritage in Mudgee, it’s no surprise you get elements of that in much of the accommodation. But there’s a good range and you should find whatever you’re looking for, if you book early.

With basic pub rooms right in the centre of town, you’ll get affordability and convenience from the Woolpack Hotel .

There are quite a lot of motels in Mudgee, but the modern Horatio Motel is probably the best.

The wonderful Parkview Hotel has made the most of its heritage features but still offers modern comfort.

Set within large gardens, the Parklands Resort has luxurious rooms and is just a couple of minutes from the city centre.

Mudgee – Dubbo

1.5 hours of driving (130 km)

Today is the shortest drive of this Broken Hill itinerary, but it would be a shame to just rush through Dubbo and not spend a day here. As one of the biggest cities in western New South Wales, it has plenty to offer, and the main attraction is the zoo.

If you’ve had a full day in Mudgee, I would suggest getting on the road early so you can do as many things as possible during daylight hours.

If you’re not in a rush, stop in Gulgong on your way between Mudgee and Dubbo. This old gold-mining town is like a time capsule, with the main street lined by heritage buildings with original verandahs and iron-lace balconies.

Another highlight on the way to Dubbo is Wellington Caves, an incredible underground complex of caverns., where you’ll find a 15-metre-high stalagmite called Altar Rock. You can only enter with a tour, so check the timetable here before driving there.

Most people, when they think of Dubbo, think of Taronga Western Plains Zoo , the vast zoo that has large enclosures for animals like giraffes, rhinos, lions, and elephants. It’s so big that it’s best to drive or cycle around it, and you’ll need half a day to visit (and you should visit – it’s really impressive).

Around the city, there are two other attractions that are really worth visiting. The first is the Flying Doctor Visitor Experience , which uses technology really well to tell the story of this organisation.

The other is Dubbo Gaol , just back from the main street, which has some rather harrowing tales. There are other heritage buildings around Dubbo, but the city doesn’t have the same historic feel as Mudgee or Orange. You can see some more suggestions for activities in my story about the best things to do in Dubbo .

If you leave Mudgee early, you should be able to fit everything in (although it’ll be a bit of a rush). If you’re particularly interested in the zoo, consider dedicating much of the day to it and do the other things before you set off the next morning.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN DUBBO

There’s a decent range of accommodation in Dubbo and, although there are a lot of motels, you’ll also find some charming bed and breakfasts just out of the centre.

If price is important, then the pub rooms at the Garden Hotel are basic but comfortable enough.

As a road trip city, there are plenty of motels in Dubbo, but I think one of the nicest is the Shearing Shed Motor Inn .

To make a visit more of a family adventure, Rhino Lodge has fun glamping tents perfect for every age.

More like a country estate than a hotel, you’ll be well looked after at Pericoe Retreat , just out of town.

Dubbo – Cobar

3 hours of driving (300 km)

On this next stretch of driving, you’ll officially enter the Outback. You’ll notice that the dirt becomes red, the air feels drier, and the gums dominate the landscape before slowly disappearing.

There are some beautiful views from the highway but there aren’t too many places worth stopping for the night. However, I would suggest Cobar as your destination. On face value, it may look like a rough mining town, but it’s this aspect that makes it a fascinating place to explore.

The best place to stop for a rest along this stretch of drive is Nyngan (which is another option for an overnight stay, if you need it). Set on the Bogan River, there are some little patches of green amongst the red dirt. For road-trippers, a quirky attraction is the Big Bogan sculpture, which is worth a photo. Nearby is the Nyngan Museum in the old railway station building.

You’ll know you’ve reached Cobar by the enormous metal sign protruding from the side of a slag heap. There has been mining activity here for decades and it’s still going, and it really does define the town.

You can get a good perspective into a huge open-cut mine from the Fort Bourke Hill Lookout. Nearby, a walk at the Peak Gold Mine gives a bit of perspective into the equipment and history of the industry.

In the town centre, there’s a heritage museum focused on mining, plus plenty of other historic buildings to see. The local pubs are also icons in the town, so grab a photo of the Big Beer Can and have a meal at the Great Western Hotel (said to have the longest wrought-iron balcony in the Southern Hemisphere).

For a few other suggestions, you can read my story on the best things to do in Cobar . It’s easy to spend half a day here seeing the sights and getting an Outback experience at the pub – it’s the sort of place you expect on a Sydney to Broken Hill road trip!

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN COBAR

There are only a few places to stay in Cobar, and they all have fairly basic motel-style facilities. But some are better than others, so I recommend booking in advance to secure a room in your preference.

Of course it has sites for caravans, but the Cobar Caravan Park also has nice studios and apartments.

Because it’s usually got the cheapest rooms, the Copper City Motel is a good budget option.

It’s nothing flash, but the Cobar Town & Country Motor Inn is an institution with large comfortable rooms.

And the Oasis Motel has recently been renovated so is probably the nicest option in Cobar at the moment.

Cobar – Broken Hill

5 hours of driving (450 km)

Today is a long drive along the Barrier Highway – but thankfully it’s a pretty one. This is true Outback landscape, with lots of red dirt and trees that seem to be defying nature by thriving out here.

There aren’t many places to stop (other than a couple of major detours that I’ll mention in a moment) so this is a day where I suggest settling in with an audiobook and enjoying the calm straight road. It’s a very easy drive!

Not long after leaving Cobar, you can do a detour to see the Mount Grenfell Historic Site . It’s one of the most important collections of Indigenous rock art in the country, with about 1300 different images painted on the caves. It’s a dirt road from the highway so you need to drive a bit slower, plus you’ll want at least an hour at the site. So if you want to stop here, I recommend leaving Cobar early because it’ll take about two hours out of your day.

While you’re still in Cobar, you might want to pack some food for the drive to Broken Hill because there aren’t many options along the way. If you need to stop, the best spot is Wilcannia, about halfway along the drive. A lot of the businesses are boarded up here, but you can get food from the service station, and there’s a supermarket across the road.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: A popular detour along the way is White Cliffs, an opal mining town where everything has been built underground as protection from the heat. (Yes, just like Coober Pedy.) You can do a mine tour, visit other underground businesses, and explore some of the quirky attractions.

Although you could squeeze in a visit to White Cliffs on the same day you drive from Cobar to Broken Hill, it’s worth more time than that – and it does have accommodation. Consider adding it on as an extra day, if you have time.

After many days of driving, you’ve finally made it to Broken Hill, the quirky Outback city that defies expectations. It has a reputation for being a bit rough – and that’s not surprising, see as it’s a remote mining centre. But Broken Hill is also quite proud these days of having more art galleries than pubs.

In fact, the city feels quite enlightened, with a large artistic community, cosmopolitan influences, and new cafes and bars. The heritage of the city is embraced, and there are lots of sites to visit that reflect that, but there’s more going on than you might initially think.

I would recommend spending at least a couple of days in Broken Hill. Visit the art galleries (particularly the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery and the Pro Hart Gallery ), pop into some of the museums, and grab a couple of drinks at the local pubs.

But you can also learn more about the incredible night sky at Outback Astronomy , see what goes on behind the scenes at the Royal Flying Doctor Service , and do some of the walks and visit the sculptures at the Living Desert State Park . I’ve got all the details in my story about the best things to do in Broken Hill .

Also, just 25 kilometres from Broken Hill is Silverton, a small old mining town that gives you a bit of a sense of how everything started out here. Even though it has a population of just 35 people, it’s full of characters, and it’s worth heading out for at least half a day to have a look around.

You’ll also find the Mad Max 2 Museum and the Mundi Mundi Lookout, where some of the movie was shot. I’ve got more information in my story about the best things to do in Silverton .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN BROKEN HILL

Broken Hill has a lot of fairly standard accommodation in the city, but it’s mostly good quality. For some special options, look a bit further into the Outback!

Although it’s nothing special, the Desert Sand Motor Inn is probably the best of the budget options.

For a clean and comfortable motel a cut above the rest, I would recommend the Red Earth Motel .

There’s something comforting about knowing the ibis chain is similar everywhere, and the ibis Styles in Broken Hill is no exception.

To make the most of isolation, get a room at the Broken Hill Outback Resort with views of the red dirt from the spa bath.

Broken Hill – Mungo National Park

4 hours driving (330 km)

Assuming you’re now ready to drive from Broken Hill to Sydney, I would recommend going the southern route so you can see some new places – and stop at a highlight of this region, Mungo National Park.

Most of the roads in the park are unsealed but they aren’t particularly challenging. Most cars should be fine but, if you don’t have AWD or 4WD, just think about taking a few precautions and be more careful on those stretches.

You’ll pass through two towns (or villages, really) on today’s drive – Menindee and Pooncarie.

If you need food and drink, I would suggest stopping at Menindee. The Maiden’s Hotel has good pub food and some interesting history – it was a rest stop for Burke and Wills on their ill-fated exploration.

Pooncarie is much smaller but I would recommend filling the car with petrol here because you normally can’t get any once you’re in Mungo National Park. You also can’t get phone reception or wifi in the park, so send all those important messages here!

Mungo National Park is a really special place and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s one of the most memorable parts of your Sydney to Broken Hill road trip. The geological formations that remain from dried ancient lakes seem otherworldly. But the park also transitions from walls of sand sculpted by erosion, to thick forests of gum set in deep red dirt.

I would suggest doing one of the tours onto the Walls of China, and self-driving the 70-kilometre-long Mungo Track. Aside from those two highlights, there are other walks and sights to fill the time. I’ve got lots of information in my guide to visiting Mungo National Park .

I reckon you’ll need about 24 hours in the park as a minimum. If you arrive early enough on the first day, you might only need one night’s accommodation. But consider staying for two nights so you can see everything without rushing.

There is a camping site in the park, but the most comfortable accommodation is in one of the cabins at the Mungo Lodge , which also has the only restaurant and bar.

Mungo National Park – Hay

3 hours driving (270 km)

Continuing the drive back to Sydney, my road trip itinerary has fewer stops for the next few days. Although there are lots of towns along this southern route, I don’t think they’re quite as interesting as the northern ones you will already have seen.

Today’s drive takes you along the Hay Plain, which is notorious for being so flat and dull that it looks like it goes on forever, but the overnight stop in Hay itself is actually very pleasant.

The shortest route between Mungo National Park and Hay takes you through the back country roads, which don’t have much traffic or amenities. If you need food or petrol, it doesn’t add much to the journey to go via Balranald instead.

Whatever time you arrive in Hay, try to plan your evening so you can go out to the viewpoint on the Cobb Highway to see the epic sunset over the fields. In town, it’s worth visiting the fascinating Shear Outback museum for a shearing demonstration, and see some of the heritage buildings.

There’s also a wonderful walk along the bank of the Murrumbidgee River, which is a nice way to start the day. And the pubs in town offer decent food in the evenings. Hay may be just a rest stop for many people, but it’s actually really nice.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN HAY

Because it’s a popular stopover town, there are lots of simple motels in Hay. If you choose carefully, you’ll find some options are much better than others.

Although it’s one of the cheapest in town, the New Crown Hotel Motel is actually quite nice for a night.

If you’re travelling in a group and want self-contained accommodation, then BIG 4 Hay will be perfect.

Of all the motels in Hay, the Highway Inn Motel is probably the most popular – and for good reason.

For something different and really special, the Convent Boutique Accommodation has wonderful rooms in a historic house.

Hay – Temora

3 hours driving (300 km)

The journey home continues and today’s drive will take you through some pretty parts of the New South Wales Riverina region.

There are quite a few different routes you can do through this part of the state, and different places you can stop for the night. I’m suggesting Temora because it has quite an incredible attraction to visit – but you could also consider Wagga Wagga, Junee, or Gundagai.

Along today’s drive, I would recommend stopping at Altina Wildlife Park , if the times of their tours fit your schedule. If you’ve never heard of it before, you’ll be quite amazed. This isn’t just a zoo – it’s an enormous conservation project that has dozens of endangered species in large open enclosures to breed and protect them. You can’t just wander through the park, you have to go on a tour in a vehicle, but they’ll tell you all about the animals you’re seeing.

Tonight’s suggested stop of Temora has a range of accommodation options because it’s a popular rest point for drivers along this stretch of highway. But I think it’s worth coming here just to see the Temora Aviation Museum .

The museum has one of the world’s best collections of historic military aircraft, with about 14 planes representing the range that defended Australia, the oldest being a 1925 Gipsy Moth. But the most impressive thing is that they can all still fly (and do, on display days).

I think it’s pretty cool that you can find something like this in a small country town, and it’s certainly worth your time to see it.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TEMORA

Although there aren’t lots of accommodation options in Temora, there’s a decent range and you should find something for every style of travel.

The pub can be noisy until late, but you’ll get the cheapest rooms in Temora at the Shamrock Hotel Motel .

With clean and comfortable rooms, Temora Motel is the best motel in town for typical road trip accommodation.

Stay in a room in the quaint SkyLodge Temora house, right on the airfield where you might see some historic aircraft in flight.

In the centre of town, you’ll get the whole house to yourself at Thelma’s Temora , including fresh eggs from the chickens.

Temora – Sydney

4.5 hours driving (420 km)

The final day! Can you believe it’s over already?

I have intentionally designed the itinerary for this Broken Hill road trip so there’s nothing in particular you need to do today. You could rush back and be home by lunch, or you can stretch out the whole day. You could even still visit the Temora Aviation Museum in the morning.

As far as places to stop along the way, I think Yass is a nice place for lunch, although it requires a small diversion off the highway. Goulburn is another option – and you might like to get a photo of the famous Big Merino!

You’ll also end up driving past the Southern Highlands, so you can even pop in there, if you have time. I have some tips of things to do in Bowral that might be useful.

And then you’ll be back in Sydney – yay! I hope you enjoyed this epic road trip from Sydney to Broken Hill and back!

My suggested itinerary

As I mentioned at the start, I’ve given you details for the eight days that I suggest you drive between stops – but I would really recommend you don’t try to rush the whole journey into just eight days.

There are some places where it’s worth spending some extra time, and that’ll help you enjoy the trip even more.

I’m sure you will have your own interests and will have a sense of where you would like to have a rest and explore a bit more. But to help with your planning, here is my suggested itinerary (which is very similar to what I actually did, with a couple of small changes that I would make with hindsight).

• Day 1: Drive from Sydney to Mudgee, stopping in the Blue Mountains and Rylstone. Relax in the afternoon.
• Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the city of Mudgee. Do wine tasting in the afternoon.
• Day 3: Drive from Mudgee to Dubbo first thing in the morning, stopping at Gulgong. Spend most of the day at the zoo and then visit the gaol in the afternoon.
• Day 4: See the Flying Doctor Visitor Experience in the morning, then drive from Dubbo to Cobar. See the Cobar sights in the afternoon.
• Day 5: Drive to White Cliffs, visiting Mount Grenfell on the way. Explore White Cliffs in the afternoon and stay the night.
• Day 6: Drive from White Cliffs to Broken Hill and begin to see the sights in the afternoon.
• Day 7: Sightseeing in Broken Hill, including art galleries, museums, and heritage sites.
• Day 8: Spend the day in Silverton and exploring the surrounding landscapes
• Day 9: Drive from Broken Hill to Mungo National Park
• Day 10: Spend the day in Mungo National Park
• Day 11: Drive from Mungo to Hay first thing in the morning. See the sights of Hay in the afternoon.
• Day 12: Drive from Hay to Temora first thing in the morning. Stop at Altina Wildlife Park on the way, and visit the Temora Aviation Museum in the afternoon.
• Day 13: Leisurely drive from Temora to Sydney, stopping at a few places along the way, including Yass and the Southern Highlands.

I hope all of this helps. Have a great trip!

More NSW stories

• A visit to Port Macquarie
• The NSW South Coast
• Things to do in Bowral
• The best things to see in Mudgee
• Visiting Mungo National Park

Follow on facebook:

Subscribe for news and deals:.

top stories:

Before you go, check this out!

We have lots more on the site to show you. You've only seen one page. Check out this post which is one of the most popular of all time.

The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Broken Hill

Broken Hill is a sleepy mining town near NSW’s state border with South Australia.

As Australia’s longest-running mining town , built on its silver orebody discovery, Broken Hill is widely known as the Silver City . In Broken Hill, you can easily find streets named after minerals & grand historic buildings from Broken Hill’s mining boom in the 1800s and early 1900s. Operating mines can also be easily viewed from the town centre.

As one of the largest cities in central Australia, Broken Hill is also known as the ‘ Capital of the Outback ‘. Located off Berrier Highway, Broken Hills is the central hub for surrounding towns. Having passed its most glorious mining boom, Broken Hill is still buzzing with modern shops, quirky cafes, and various restaurants. Multiple art galleries can also be found throughout Broken Hill.

That said, Broken Hill is still a downright outback town with its red soil, scorching hot summer days, and old country pubs. Since Broken Hill is experiencing a shrinking population, just like many other outback towns, you can also find many abandoned buildings during your visit to Broken Hill.

However, there is a lot more to discover in Broken Hill.

Broken Hill is home to a diverse landscape featuring the impressive Living Desert State Park and peaceful Menindee Lakes. They are all worth a visit in their own right.

Since attractions in Broken Hill are spread out all over this sizeable region, it can take at least 2-3 days to cover them all . However, you can undoubtedly cover Broken Hill’s most popular attractions in only one day with a packed itinerary .

Line of Lode Miners Memorial

Standing on the edge of a large mullock heap in the middle of Broken Hill , the Line of Lode Miner Memorial is the best place to start your visit to Broken Hill with its miners’ memorial and a commanding view of the city .

After parking at its massive car park, you will first walk through an open-air museum with various old mining machinery before arriving at the Line of Lode Miners Memorial.

The Line of Lode Miners Memorial is a towering monument completed in 2001 to pay tribute to the lives lost in the mines of Broken Hill . It is a sobering reminder of the cruel reality of mining and the people who paid the ultimate sacrifice in Broken Hill’s thriving past.

Towards the end of this memorial walk, you will find an incredible lookout overlooking the entire Broken Hill town centre and the expansive outback . This is an excellent spot for you to get acquainted with the impressive landscape of Broken Hill and beyond.

Near Line of Lode Miners Memorial, you can also find a visitor information centre and a cafe . However, it was under construction during my recent visit. So you may wish to check if the construction has been finished if you are planning to have your breakfast here.

The Big Bench

Atop the mullock heap where the Line of Lode Miners Memorial is located, you can also find The Big Bench, one of Australia’s iconic Big Things .

In the past, visitors could sit on top of The Big Bench to enjoy a panoramic view of Broken Hill while posing for an Instagrammable photo. However, it has now been fenced off, so visitors can no longer sit on it to pose for pictures.

With that said, it is still a fun spot to check out and take photos of, especially when you are already in this area.

Broken Hill Heritage Trail

Since its establishment in the 1880s, Broken Hills has been a thriving mining town well into the 1900s. Although mines are still operating in Broken Hill, mining is no longer the primary industry in Broken Hill nowadays. However, reminders of Broken Hill’s glorious old days are all over its compact town centre.

Alternatively, you can grab a map from the visitor information centre to discover Broken Hill Heritage Trail at your leisure. This 2-hour walk will take you through many streets named after minerals and metals to visit a vast collection of Broken Hill’s heritage buildings on foot, which is the best way to get a feel of this charming town centre.

Here are a few interesting heritage buildings along Broken Hill Heritage Trail which you may want to pay special attention to:

• Palace Hotel : the most famous & iconic hotel in Broken Hill, as it was featured in the iconic Australian movie, Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Its interior is also covered with beautiful murals, which should be checked out during your visit to Broken Hill. To make your Broken Hill visit more special, you can also choose to dine and stay in Palace Hotel if desired.
• Trades Hall : a reminder of the miners who fought for better wages and working conditions in Broken Hill’s early mining days.
• Post Office : a beautiful red-brick Federation-style building with a 26-metre tall clock tower from the 1890s. A great example of buildings from Broken Hill’s early mining boom.

JP Keenan Lookout

JP Keenan Lookout is located in a small grassland near the corner of Kaolin Street and Mica Lane. It is only a short uphill walk from Broken Hill city centre and offers a stunning bird’s eye view of the city centre . Information boards are also available at JP Keenan Lookout to help identify the landmarks of the Broken Hill skyline.

Directly facing the huge mullock heap, where the Line of Lode Miners Memorial stands, JP Keenan Lookout also provides a great view of the Line of Lode Miners Memorial & the original site where BHP began as a mining giant.

With a small grassland, JP Keenan Lookout is perfect for a peaceful picnic with a stunning view . So you may wish to pick up some food from the city centre and enjoy a picnic before heading to the next attraction.

Kevin Charles ‘Pro’ Hart is the most recognised and influential artist from Broken Hill . He has dedicated most of his life to capturing the spirit of Australia’s outback with paintings and sculptures.

For those who love arts, a visit to Broken Hill is incomplete without checking out the Pro Hart Gallery.

For only a small entrance fee of AUD 5 per adult , you can admire an extraordinary collection of Pro Hart’s work and check out his studio.

Historic Day Dream Mine

Although you will not be able to check out any of the operating mines here in Broken Hill, you can still experience the underground life of miners back in the day at the historic Day Dream Mine, one of the original silver mines from Silverton’s short-lived mining boom .

This well-preserved 1880s silver mine runs guided underground tours twice a day. It will provide visitors with a great insight into the challenging working condition during the early mining days while exploring the tunnels and voids of this historic silver mine.

The tours usually start at 10 am and 11.30 am , except on Mondays and Fridays, when the mine is closed. The ticket for this tour is AUD 33 per adult , but booking is highly recommended .

After the tour, you can enjoy delicious scones at its tea house. Rocks and crystals are also available for purchase as souvenirs.

Silverton is an outback town 25 kilometres northwest of Broken Hill. It is where silver mining first started in this region back in the 1880s before it moved to the richer fields in Broken Hill in the late 1890s.

During its mining boom, Silverton was the place to be with thriving pubs, various shops, a hospital, and even a stock exchange. A tramway was also constructed from the state border between NSW and SA to Silverton.

However, once the mining boom busted, all activities started to die down, with people moving to the new mining hub, Broken Hill. Leaving Silverton with a shell of what it once was. Nowadays, there are only around 50 residents in this old mining town.

With various heritage stone buildings, dusty streets with red dirt, free-roaming donkeys, quirky art galleries, and a historic outback pub featured in many popular films, Silverton is a classic outback town full of characters.

Having been featured in countless movies and TV shows, such as Mad Max 2, Razorback, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, and The Flying Doctors, a visit to Silverton can somehow make you feel like you are transformed into one of those outback movie scenes.

Some of the interesting places to visit in Silverton are:

• Mad Max Museum : for the fans of Mad Max, visiting Mad Max Museum to admire its collection of original and replica items and vehicles from Mad Max is a must-do when visiting Silverton.
• Mundi Mundi Lookout : an impressive lookout overlooking the expansive and seemingly never-ending Mundi Mundi Plains. It also makes an excellent spot to watch the sunset.

Living Desert State Park

Living Desert State Park is a 180-hectare sanctuary, 12 kilometres north of Broken Hill city centre. It houses a wide variety of native plantations and wildlife , giving visitors an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with all the beautiful fauna and flora of outback Australia at the doorstep of Broken Hill.

There are various walking tracks within Living Desert State Park to suit different needs. Among all the walks, I highly suggest checking out the walking trails within the Flora and Fauna Sanctuary for a tranquil walk surrounded by beautiful native floras.

Depending on your preference, you can choose the short 1-kilometre walk along the Flora Walking Track or the longer 2.2-kilometre Cultural Walk Trail when visiting Flora and Fauna Sanctuary. However, the gate to this sanctuary closes by 2 pm during the Summer months (December to February) & 5 pm during the remaining months. So make sure you have enough time for this visit.

After checking out Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, there is a 1.2-kilometre walk near the sanctuary’s gate to bring you to one of Broken Hill’s most famous attractions, Sculpture Hill.

Sculpture Hill houses a group of 12 unique sandstone sculptures carved by different artists from around the world. Located on top of the highest hill within the Living Desert State Park, the beautiful silhouettes of these sculptures are incredible additions to the Broken Hill skyline . They are especially beautiful and peaceful around sunset, which makes it one of the top spots for watching the sunset in Broken Hill .

If walking up Sculpture Hill is outside your consideration, you can also drive up to it. There is a decent-sized car park right next to the sculptures. From the car park, there will only be a short 2-minute walk to the sculptures.

With that said, the drive to the sculptures is relatively narrow and steep, so make sure you drive carefully. Also, when driving around sunset, there tends to be a lot of wildlife along the road & make sure you are hyper-vigilant during the drive.

Access to Living Desert State Park requires a ticket, AUD 6 per adult , paid via a ticket machine near the park entrance. Not sure if it was due to the pandemic, but the ticket machine was only receiving card payments when I visited recently, so make sure you have a bank card ready before visiting.

More than One Day in Broken Hill

There is so much to see in and around Broken Hill & I highly suggest spending at least a couple of days in Broken Hill, so you can check out other interesting attractions Broken Hill has to offer.

Here is a list of attractions to check out if you have more than one day in Broken Hill.

Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience

As the ‘Capital of the Outback’, Broken Hill is home to the biggest base for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). So why not check out the RFDS base at Broken Hill when you are here?

Regular guided tours are available at the Broken Hill RFDS, which lets you see some behind the scene activities of the RFDS.

Entrance fee is AUD 15 per adult , which include the guided tour. Souvenirs are also available for purchase at the base. All the process will go towards supporting the RFDS, which is essential for everyone living and travelling in outback Australia.

Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum (GeoCentre)

Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum, a.k.a. GeoCentre, is home to an extensive collection of minerals from the Broken Hill region. It is also an excellent place to learn the science behind the geology of this region and the history of Broken Hill’s mining industry.

Entrance to Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum is free, but donations are highly encouraged . You can also purchase some beautiful souvenirs from its gift shop if interested.

Silver City Mint & Art Centre

Silver City Mint & Art Centre has a good collection of gemstones, silvers, minerals, paintings, and sculptures. Visitors can also purchase some artwork and silver pieces from this place.

The biggest drawing card for Silver City Mint & Art Centre is its 100 metres long & 12 metres wide canvas drawing, The Big Picture , which captures the impressive landscape of Broken Hill with lifelike models complementing the drawing.

The Silver City Mint & Art Centre ticket is AUD 8.50 per adult . There are also plenty of souvenirs for purchase within the centre.

Broken Hill City Art Gallery

Broken Hill City Art Gallery is an incredible regional gallery focusing on artworks about outback Australia and from local artists. The building Broken Hill City Art Gallery is located in is also a charming old emporium building worth checking out in its own merit.

Entrance to Broken Hill City Art Gallery is free, but donations are encouraged .

Sulphide Street Railway & Historical Museum

Sulphide Street Railway & Historical Museum is a building complex that houses various collections reflecting every aspect of life in Broken Hill.

Here, you can find a Railway Museum with the original locomotive from the Silverton Tramway, mineral collections from the Broken Hill region, and a range of historical artefacts helping you to re-imagine the thriving life in Broken Hill back in the day.

Ticket to Sulphide Street Railway & Historical Museum is AUD 8 per adult & concession and family tickets are also available.

Kinchega National Park & Menindee Lakes

Just over 100 kilometres drive southeast of Broken Hill, you will find the peaceful Kinchega National Park and the stunning Menindee Lakes.

Kinchega National Park is a tranquil park surrounding Menindee Lakes. It offers visitors an excellent opportunity to discover the nature and history of this area . Lakefront campsites are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy this magnificent park at their own pace.

Where to Stay in Broken Hill

With room rates below the national average, you can easily find a standard double room for under AUD 200 per night here in Broken Hill. A few suggestions are:

How to Get to Broken Hill

Visit broken hill by air.

Being the ‘Capital of the Outback’, Broken Hill has a commercial airport located only 6-kilometre south of the city centre, with flights regularly departing to and arriving from Adelaide, Sydney, Dubbo, and Mildura via REX and QantasLink .

This is undoubtedly the fastest way to visit Broken Hill. However, as can be expected from a regional flight, the cost of these flights is pretty expensive compared to other modes of transport.

You will likely also need a car rental on arrival to make the most out of your stay in Broken Hill. This will add to your travel expense as well.

Visit Broken Hill by Car

Depending on where you are travelling from, visiting Broken Hill by car can potentially be your best option.

Visit Broken Hill by Rail

Weekly Outback Explorer service is available between Sydney Central Station and Broken Hill. This ride departs early in the morning, arrives late at night & takes about 13 hours one way . It is much more affordable than regional flights & a more chilled-out experience than driving.

Share this: Bec's Travel Itinerary

Related posts:.

Bec's Travel Itinerary

I'm passionate about travel. I would like to use this platform to share my travel experiences. Please support me by subscribing to this blog. You can also find more travel related contents on my YouTube channel and Instagram. Thank you :)

Recent Posts

The Ultimate Port Douglas 1-Day Itinerary

Port Douglas is a beachside resort town, only a 1-hour drive north of Cairns. Ideally positioned along Far North Queensland's picturesque coastline, Port Douglas offers breathtaking coastal views,...

Daintree Rainforest 1-Day Itinerary: a complete guide

Daintree Rainforest is just over 100 kilometres north of Cairns, along Australia's picturesque east coast. It is home to one of the world's oldest surviving tropical rainforests. With incredibly...

Discover more from Bec's Travel Itinerary

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Accommodation
• Travel Inspiration

A 3-day itinerary in Broken Hill for art & culture

The red dirt landscapes and outback heritage of broken hill has made it an oasis for artists and art lovers. here's how to experience the desert city's creative cache in 72 hours..

Destination NSW

Immerse yourself in an artistic world inspired by outback life in Broken Hill, where art galleries outnumber pubs and show off bold local personalities, sculptures come with incredible desert views and you can get up close to iconic film locations that have become part of the town’s culture. This 72-hour art and culture itinerary proves that Broken Hill is an art destination unlike any other: feel the inspiration of the landscape, meet the artists and be welcomed like a local.  

DAY ONE: Broken Hill

DAY ONE KEY FACTS:

The Living Desert Sculptures is located at:   

• Nine Mile Road, Broken Hill, NSW 2880 
• A 17-minute drive (12.9km) from Broken Hill centre 

On your first day in the Silver City, it’s time to absorb the region’s talent with a self-guided gallery tour. Get prepped with a coffee and croissant at Sufi Bakery , then take a walk down the town’s main strip of Argent Street, which is also home to public art such as the wood-carved Aboriginal Story Poles, and human canoe sculpture by local artist Geoff De Main. Make time to explore the oldest regional art gallery in the state, Broken Hill City Art Gallery , which houses an incredible array of important works, from local and central Australian Aboriginal artists, as well as modern pieces by Margaret Preston and Arthur Boyd. A morning spent within these walls is a thorough grounding in the region’s prolific artscape. Pick up a copy of the free Art & Culture map at the gallery or at the Visitor Centre to guide you to 54 other creative attractions in the city.  

Broken Hill City Art Gallery , Broken Hill

Afternoon  

An appetite for art requires sustenance, so meander across the road to the Silly Goat Café , Broken Hill’s coolest place to refuel and recaffeinate with smoothie bowls, smashed avo and excellent coffee. Next, stop at the Pro Hart Gallery , where you can marvel at the world-renowned artist’s most iconic works and recognisable depictions of outback life that are often as brightly coloured as the characters of the desert itself. You can even pick up a brush yourself in a painting class led by one of Pro’s children.

Pro Hart Gallery , Broken Hill

Sunset is the perfect time to stand among the The Living Desert Sculptures , one of the most photographed sites in Broken Hill. Created by 12 international artists in 1993, these magnificent sandstone sculptures stand proudly on a hilltop with an incredible backdrop of the endless expanse of the desert beyond. Tread the 900-metre track from the picnic area to fully appreciate the majesty of these works and snap them in their best light.   

Living Desert Sculptures in the Living Desert State Park, Broken Hill

Back in town, check into the historic Palace Hotel . This 1889 institution has stood as a grand portrait of outback life for more than 130 years, including a starring role in The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert and resulting cult adoration. Each year in September, the hotel is the epicentre for the Broken Heel Festival , which is celebrated throughout the city. You’ll also find yourself spellbound by the hotel’s fantastically vivid murals, most of which were painted by Aboriginal artist Gordon Waye, each featuring water with the intent to create the illusion of a desert oasis. Upstairs, there are well-groomed rooms to bed down in, including the Priscilla Suite.  

Broken Heel Festival , Broken Hill

Before you retire, though, there’s fun to be had downstairs, head to the Front Bar before strolling 600 metres to The Old Salt Bush for dinner, where executive chef Lee Cecchin plates up seasonal fare using locally sourced produce and native ingredients such as finger lime, bush tomato, and, of course, saltbush.  

DAY TWO: Silverton

DAY TWO KEY FACTS: 

John Dynon Gallery is located at:     

• 2 Stuart St, Silverton, NSW 2880 
• A 33-minute drive (37.5km) from Broken Hill 

Start your day in a delightful time warp with a visit to the beloved Bells Milk Bar . This hallowed Broken Hill café has been serving up sweetness since 1892, but it was a renovation in the 1950s that catapulted it into the city’s cultural canon with its ‘futuristic’ style. It’s been lovingly preserved through the decades, so swing by and scoff down some peaches and cream waffles and a coffee and wander its adjoining museum full of Aussie milk bar heritage.  

Bells Milk Bar , Broken Hill

Your next destination is Silverton, and your first stop is Silverton Photography Gallery and Garden , where you can enjoy Helen Murray’s vignettes of outback life and stroll the ‘secret garden’. Follow up with a visit to the John Dynon Gallery with its colourful bicycle façade and equally vivid works by the iconic painter, who you may just meet onsite. 

John Dynon Gallery , Silverton

After trailing along in the dust in pursuit of fine art, you’re likely ready for a frosty beverage. Steer yourself on a two-minute walk to the remarkable Silverton Hotel . This outback public house has been operating since 1884, but took up residence in the town’s post office in 1918 after the original pub burnt down. It’s been here ever since, playing host to bush wanderers, film stars and anyone in need of a cold beer and robust meal. 

The Original Silverton Hotel , Silverton

Try not to settle in, though, because your afternoon is scheduled for Australian film history on a visit to the Mad Max 2 Museum . Just a five-minute stroll from the hotel, pop in to ogle collectibles from George Millar’s hugely popular movie franchise Mad Max , some of which was filmed in the region. 

Mad Max 2 Museum , Silverton

As the afternoon gives way to dusk, jump in the car for the five-minute drive to Mundi Mundi Lookout to absorb the otherworldly vastness of the Mundi Mundi Plains . With the horizon so unobstructed, you can see the curvature of the planet as you stare out to the distance, making it feel like you could be at the ends of the earth. It’s little wonder the plains made a perfect post-apocalyptic setting for Mad Max 2 . 

Mundi Mundi Plains , Silverton

As darkness steals the view, return to your accommodation at The Palace Hotel in Broken Hill or spend the night at the onsite accommodation at Silverton Hotel and partake in the evening’s revelry. 

Inside the Priscilla Suite at The Palace Hotel , Broken Hill

DAY THREE: Aviation & astronomy

DAY THREE KEY FACTS: 

Outback Astronomy is located at:     

• 18817 Barrier Highway, Broken Hill, NSW 2880 
• A 9-minute drive (8.4km) from Broken Hill 

Your third day in the Silver City begins at Soull Café and Espresso Bar , before you jump in the car for a 10-minute drive to discover the history and ongoing legacy of one of outback Australia’s most incredible services, The Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience . Take a guided tour to learn about past- and present-day operations and the logistics of providing medical care to remote regions and the moving stories that go with it, or walk yourself through the hangar and control rooms from which aid is dispensed to 640,000 square kilometres of outback. 

Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre

Head back to town and swing by Willy Nilly Art to pick up a token of your stay. The studio gallery of local artist Amanda Johnson is also a retail store, where you can buy original works and prints, as well as painted décor, clothing and cards. Then pop into the family-run Amanya Mitha Indigenous Gallery to admire and purchase an authentic artefact made by Aboriginal owner Clint Kemp and his father, Paul. The gallery, which is open Saturdays (and by appointment during the week), also houses pieces from local NSW and central Australian Aboriginal artists, including jewellery, woodwork and paintings, and runs regular holiday programs for kids to create their own artefacts and learn about culture. 

Creatives at Willy Nilly Art, Broken Hill - Credit:  Willy Nilly Art

Spend the afternoon sipping local spirits laced with outback aromatics at Broken Hill Distillery . Work your way through a tasting flight enjoyed with a delicious meal outdoors or take a tour of the distillery to learn how they make their quandong-infused gin and Outback Moonshine. 

Broken Hill Distillery

If you’ve been paying attention come nightfall, you’ll already be awestruck by the brilliance of the diamond-studded desert sky. But to truly comprehend the beauty and gob-smacking distances of those celestial bodies above, spend an evening with Outback Astronomy . Peer through telescopes and binoculars at the Milky Way, while your host fills you with astronomical amazement. Book in for a dinner before the show to spend the entire evening with the stars. It’s a fittingly glittering farewell to this heart-stealing desert city. 

Outback Astronomy , Broken Hill 

Getting there

Broken Hill is a 13-hour drive from Sydney, 11 hours from Canberra, nine hours from Melbourne, and less than six hours from Adelaide. Otherwise, fly into Broken Hill Airport and hire a car to tour the region. Keeping in mind, you may need a 4WD to explore some unsealed roads. You can also take the Broken Hill Outback Xplorer train from Sydney or a daily connection with Transport NSW via XPT/Coach from Sydney. 

More articles by theme

You may also like....

20 of NSW’s most iconic ‘Big Things’

A guide to NSW’s incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The ultimate guide to Lismore’s art scene

Top arts & culture experiences in Newcastle

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay connected to Visit NSW for all the latest news, stories, upcoming events and travel inspiration.

Discover Somewhere New

All the insider news, tips and inspiration you need to plan your next trip, delivered straight to your inbox.

Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state’s first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water.

• NSW Government
• Destination New South Wales (Corporate site)

VisitNSW.com is the official tourism site for Destination NSW. © Copyright 2024 Destination NSW. All rights reserved

• Information
• Book Accommodation
• English Select this as your preferred language
• Broken Hill Visitor Information Centre
• Heritage Walk Tours
• Free Information Pack
• Broken Hill Weather
• Getting Here & Around
• Fruit Fly & Interstate Quarantine
• Protect our National Parks
• Road Conditions
• Petrol Stations
• Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Stations
• Bars, Clubs & Pubs
• Breweries & Distilleries
• Cafes & Bakeries
• Restaurants
• All Accommodation
• Caravan, Camping & Holiday Parks
• Cottages & Holiday Houses
• Pet Friendly

Aboriginal Experiences

• All Attractions
• Arts and Culture
• Business Directory
• Drives and Itineraries

Broken Heel Festival

• Broken Hill Mundi Mundi
• Perfect Light Film Festival
• John Simons Flora & Fauna Sanctuary
• Starview Campsite
• Sundown Trail
• Sunset Sculptures
• Markets and Shopping
• Parks, Gardens and Reserves
• Walks Near Me Map
• Diverse & Eclectic
• Ecology & Sustainability
• Film, Music & Literature
• Mining & Geology
• Syndicate of Seven
• Visual Artists
• 1. Kintore Reserve
• 2. Duke of Cornwall Hotel -1888
• 3. Daydream Hotel - 1888
• 4. Barrier Boarding House -1888
• 5. Shops - c1890
• 6. Willyama Hotel -1905
• 7. Old Railway Station - 1919
• 8. BHP Chimney - 1885
• 9. BHP Slag Heap - 1886
• 10. BHP Mill Foundations - 1897
• 11. Delprat Shaft - 1900
• 12. Mullockers Memory
• 13. Line of Lode Miners’ Memorial and Visitors Centre
• 14. Former Crown Hotel - c 1890
• 15. Former Wilcannia Club Hotel - 1888
• 16. Railway Station - 1957
• 17. Bond Store - 1890
• 18. Former Crystal Hotel
• 19. Former Miners Arms Hotel -c 1890
• 20. Duke of Cornwall Park
• 21. Central School - 1907
• 22. Gaol - 1891
• 23. High School - 1919
• 24. Former Police Barracks - 1900
• 25. Central School Building - 1900
• 26. Pig and Whistle Hotel - 1890
• 27. Synagogue - 1910
• 28. Joe Keenan Lookout
• 29. Sulphide Street Cottages - c1900
• 30. Hospital - 1941
• 31. Thomas Street Uniting Church - 1911
• 32. Regeneration Reserve
• 33. White Rocks Reserve
• 34. Cummins Street Residences - c1890
• 35. Thomas Street Residences - c1890
• 36. Tydvil Hotel - 1891
• 37. Mulga Hill Hotel - 1890
• 38. Oxide Street Row Cottages - c1890
• 39. St Andrews Uniting Church - 1905
• 40. St Peters Anglican Church - 1928
• 41. Former Caledonian Hotel - 1898
• 42. Catholic Bishop’s Residence - 1887
• 43. Sacred Heart Cathedral and adjacent Convent 1905 and 1900
• 44. Sacred Heart College - 1927
• 45. The Towers - c1890
• 46. Wesley Church - 1888
• 47. Sturt Park
• 48. Trades Hall - 1898/1904
• 49. YMCA - c1890
• 50. Miners Lamp Motel - 1888
• 51. Imperial Hotel - 1888
• 52. Scout Hall - 1900
• 53. Old Royal Hotel - 1904
• 54. Iodide Street Row Cottages - c1890
• 55. Wades Shop - c1890
• 56. Baptist Church - 1917
• 57. Shop and Residence - c1890
• 58. Williams Street Residences - c1890
• 59. Mosque - 1891
• 60. North Primary School - 1902
• 61. School of the Air - 1956
• 63. South Australian Brewery - 1893
• 64. North Mine
• 65. Junction Hotel - 1892
• 66. Junction Circle - 1950
• 67. Thompson Shaft - 1910
• 68. Junction Mine and Lookout
• 69. British Mine Housing - c1910
• 70. MMM Dumps
• 71. All Nations Hotel - 1891
• 72. Assay Office c1890
• 73. Central Power Station - 1930
• 74. Former Central Mine Manger’s Residence (now St Ann’s Nursing Home)
• 75. Alma Hotel -1891
• 76. South Broken Hill Hotel - 1889
• 77. Former South Police Station - 1889
• 78. South Post Office - 1898
• 79. South Fire Station - c1900
• 80. Patton Park
• 81. Bells Milk Bar – 1956
• 82. Alma Mechanic’ Institute – 1898
• 83. Former Salvation Army Hall 1900
• 84. Gladstone Hotel - 1888
• 85. South Primary School 1910
• 86. St James Anglican Church 1903
• 87. South Baptist Church - 1911
• 88. South Mine Offices - 1910
• 89. Zinc Oval and Zinc Mine (not accessible to the public)
• 90. Former All Saints Catholic Church - 1890
• 91. Union Club Hotel - c1890
• 92. Zinc Lakes - 1948
• 93. NBHC Mine Housing - c1950
• 94. NBHC Mine Haulage and Service Shafts –1946 (not open to the public
• 95. Southern Cross Shaft - 1966
• 96. South Mine Headframes 1919/1932
• 97. Ryan Street Cottages - 1890
• 98. A.J. Keast Park
• 99. Hillside Hotel - 1891
• 100. Burke Ward Hall - 1905
• 101. Railwaytown Post Office - 1925
• 102. Nicholls Street Methodist Church - c1890
• 103. Cornish Street Lookout
• 104. Broken Hill Cemetery - 1889
• 105. Former Freiberg Hotel - 1899
• 106. Burke Ward School - 1897
• 107. Ambush Site
• 108. St Marys Catholic Church - 1922
• 109. Railwaytown Baptist Church - 1913
• 110. The Salvation Army Hall 1960
• 111. The Former Railway Town Post Office - 1900
• 112. The Gasworks Hotel - 1891
• 113. St Phillips Anglican Church - 1903
• 114. The South Australian Hotel
• 115. Railway Residences 1890
• 116. Tramway Residence - 1902
• 117. Rising Sun Hotel - 1888
• 118. Block 10 Lookout
• 119. Queen Elizabeth Park
• Patton Street Park
• Queen Elizabeth Park
• National Heritage Listing
• Cameron Corner
• Sturt's Steps
• White Cliffs

Attractions

Eat and drink

Get started today!

Arts and culture

Walks, trails and bike tracks

Mundi mundi bash.

The Mundi Mundi Bash, outback NSW's biggest live music event, is back for its fourth edition. Set on the vast Mundi Mundi Plains, just 37km from Broken Hill, Aussie legends like James Reyne and Jon Stevens are set to rock the plains from Aug 15-17, 2024. All ages, family-friendly and dog-friendly - this is definitely an adventure you'll want to add to your bucket list.

DESERT, DISCO AND PLENTY OF DIVAS. 5 - 9 September 2024 The Broken Heel Festival is a fabulous five day festival which celebrates the 30th anniversary of "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" at her spiritual home; The Palace Hotel.

Aussie Town of the Year

Broken Hill has been voted second in the Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Awards, recognising the Silver City for its ongoing contribution to Australian tourism and one of the top destinations of 2024. Plan your trip today!

Visitor Information

How to get here, campsite bookings, parks & playgrounds, pet friendly, business directory, road conditions, weather forecast.

Heartland - Broken Hill

22 June 2024

The great didgeridoo virtuoso William Barton and powerhouse violinist Véronique Serret blend songlines and storytelling in this compelling collaborative work.

Mutawintji Cultural Festival

09 August 2024

The Mutawintji Cultural Festival will serve as a vibrant celebration of Wiimpatja culture on our traditional lands.

White Cliffs Camel Cup and Bikekhana

10 August 2024

Imagine Camels roaring down the straight racing for a chance to win the big Cup. In between Camel Races there are motorbikes racing.

The Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash

15 August 2024

The Mundi Mundi Bash is Australia’s newest remote outback music festival set on the Mundi Mundi Plains 40km north west of Broken Hill...

Keep up to date

Join our free eNewsletter to keep up to date with the latest news, events and accomodation deals. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Your ultimate guide to Broken Hill

• Getting there

‘The Capital Of The Outback’, ‘The Silver City’, ‘The Oasis At The End Of The Earth’; many people have attempted sum up Broken Hill over the years.

However, we say the best way to describe it is to simply call it a melting pot. On one hand it’s the heartland of Australian mining, with plenty of industrial artefacts dotting the city as proof. On the other, it’s a Mecca for the LGBT community thanks to the town’s star-making role as the backdrop to 1994 hit film ‘Priscilla Queen of The Desert’. And then, as if thrown in just to confuse everyone, it’s also home to some of Australia’s most iconic artists, along with a thriving gallery scene heralding a new generation of creative talent inspired by the rugged charm of the outback.

See what we mean? The best way to describe Broken Hill isn’t to try to box it in, rather explore it at your own pace and see for yourself.

Here’s our guide to digging deep into Broken Hill’s curious beauty…

Getting to Broken Hill

Adelaide to broken hill.

Adelaide is the closest major city to Broken Hill, so you could rent a car enjoy a leisurely 5-hour road trip, passing through the beautiful Barossa Valley on the way. However, it’s a missed opportunity if you don’t catch the Indian Pacific train on its journey from Sydney through to Perth, stopping between Adelaide and Broken Hill.

This is one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys and if you book Gold or Platinum class it’s arguably one of the most luxe ways to make your way there.

To fast track your journey simply catch a 1-hour Regional Express flight from Adelaide domestic airport to be amongst the red-earthed beauty of this town before you can say ‘G’day’.

Melbourne to Broken Hill

Melbourne is approximately 9 hours from Broken Hill, so if your driving stamina isn’t what it used to be simply catch one of the 3-hour flights from the Melbourne domestic airport.

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, Southern Cross Coaches offer daily services from Melbourne to Mildura and Mildura to Broken Hill twice a week.

Sydney to Broken Hill

Sydney is an epic 12-hour odyssey from Broken Hill but if you’re looking to recreate your own ‘Priscilla Queen of The Desert’ road trip then that might be exactly what you’re looking for. Sydney is also where the Indian Pacific starts it’s seminal 2-day trip from Central Station, so if you prefer to simply sit back and take in the sights then this is your best option.

You can also catch one of the daily 2.5 hour flights to Broken Hill from Sydney domestic airport aboard Rex airlines.

Things to Do in Broken Hill

featured post

14 unique things to do in Broken Hill

At first glance, this outback town might seem as bare as the desert that surrounds it. But it doesn’t take much diggin...

Local History and Museums

Broken Hill’s local history is a checkerboard of contrasts.  On one hand you’ve got mind-blowing ancient Aboriginal hand painting site tours from Mutawintji Heritage Heritage Tours Company , and on the other a fully-decked out museum dedicated to the wonder of cinema that was Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior’’ at the Mad Max Museum Silverton .

On a more sombre note, the Line of Lone Miner’s Memorial is a must-do for anyone curious about the town’s one prolific mining history. The structure is a modern architectural stunner against the stark outback along Federation Way and stands as tribute to the 800 miners who lost their lives since mining in Broken Hill began in 1883

Outback Tours

The endless red-earthed outback is by far the main reasons to explore Broken Hill but if it’s your first time going walkabout it’s best to hitch your wagon to Tri State Safaris . Tri State specialise in taking travellers to the ultra hard-to-reach places within the surrounding beauty such as boat tours across Minindee Lakes and adventurous 4-wheel-drives across the Flinders Ranges and Kinchega National Park.

If you’re looking for sites that will blow your mind (and your Instagram feed) then sign up for a Silver City Tours exploration of Silverton Ghost Town, dotted with cinematic scenes of long-deserted federation buildings. It’s no wonder it’s a favourite set amongst local and international filmmakers.

Art and Culture

Mining and art might not be usual bedfellows but Broken Hill is no regular town and here the two sit comfortably side by side. With the toil of mining often inspiring the works of some of the regions top artists. Pro Hart Gallery is one of Broken Hill’s top cultural attractions, dedicated to the memory of one of Australia’s most celebrated outback painters.

For an introduction to some of the region’s up and coming artists then pay a visit to Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery which showcases inspiring works from talents across every level and style.

The incredible story behind Broken Hill’s tiny cameleer mosque

The astonishing story of Broken Hill’s tiny cameleer mosque spans the outback, oceans and generations, as Steve Madgwick discove...

The outback road trip next-to-no-one has done

When Australia heads to the coast, Steve Madgwick takes the path of most resistance straight into an outback furnace to discover i...

Where to stay in Broken Hill

If you’re looking for a true-blue Aussie stay experience then look no further than the Palace Hotel , located in the heart of Broken Hill. This colourful kitschy relic, lovingly referred to as ‘the Queen’ has been hosting a mix of burly miners at the bar and over-the-top drag queens on stage ever since ‘Priscilla Queen of The Desert’ put this pub on the map in 1994. To say this place has ‘character’ would be putting it lightly. Book a room in the beautifully garish ‘Priscilla’ suite to truly live out loud for a few nights.

However, if you err slightly more straight-laced then the Ibis Styles offers well-appointed rooms and a pool for cooling off after a days exploring.

Caravan Parking and Camping Grounds

Cawndilla Campground is ideal if you’re a more into your bird watching that bar-hopping. Watch blue-billed ducks and wild brolgas nest while watching a sunset over the wetlands, with the comfort of picnic tables, bathrooms and barbecue facilities nearby. Situated by Lake Cawndilla, this park offers spaces for tents all the way to large caravans.

If you’re looking for something closer to town, Lake View Caravan Park is just 3km out and offers a range of fully self-contained cabins or powered and unpowered camping sites.

The best caravan parks in Broken Hill to call home

Saddle up that RV. It’s time for a caravan trip out west towards Broken Hill. Want to make that epic journey to the o...

Where to eat in Broken Hill

If you’re looking to get the flavour of Broken Hill, literally and figuratively then The Palace Hotel Restaurant is the place to go. Eye up the large-scale murals that decorate the walls while enjoying  cocktail or two at the front bar, made famous in ‘Priscilla’, then dine on sushi or soft shell crab in the restaurant next door.

Big kids and small kids alike will love the 50’s kitsch of Bell’s Milk Bar , located on Patton Street. Meanwhile, Tom Dick & Harry’s on Argent Street specialised to every taste with a mix of sushi, salads and sandwiches.

11 restaurants and cafes in Broken Hill for a top feed

It might feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, but the number of restaurants open in Broken Hill will have you st...

Sink a cold one at these top Broken Hill pubs and clubs

Sinking a cold one on a hot afternoon hits differently in the outback - particularly at these Broken Hill pubs and clubs. If you�...

Top Destinations in NSW

• Blue Mountains
• Hunter Valley
• Lord Howe Island
• Snowy Mountains
• Southern Highlands
• NSW South Coast

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

• Destinations
• South Pacific

Broken Hill was voted the best town in NSW - here are all the unique things to do here

By Jemima Skelley | 4 months ago

Earlier this month, Wotif released their list of the best towns in Australia , with three spots in NSW taking out places in the top 10.

Sitting pretty in the number two spot is Broken Hill , the Outback town that's right near the South Australian border.

Though it's not the most convenient town to visit, once you get there (yes, there are direct flights from Sydney!), there's so much to do you'll wonder why you've never been before.

Here's everything you have to do on a Broken Hill trip.

READ MORE: Singapore hotel offers travellers $950 refund if it rains

See the stars

There's no better place in Australia to check out the night sky than the Outback, where light pollution is significantly lower. Head to Outback Astronomy, a dark-sky location just a 10-minute drive outside Broken Hill for stunning views of the Milky Way and our closest planets.

Take a camel ride

Take in the outback scenery around Silverton in a very unique way - from the back of a camel. The most popular tour is the one at sunset - tour the sights and history of the unique village while watching the sun sink over the desert.

See the cave paintings

Uncover ancient cultural secrets through rock carvings, paintings and stencils that date back over eight millennia on a Mutawintji Heritage tour . You'll also likely see a ton of local wildlife as you explore the national park which is home to rolling hills and fresh watering holes.

READ MORE: What you must not pack in your checked baggage when flying

Attend a festival for your favourite movie

The Broken Heel Festival is an annual event that celebrates all things Priscilla Queen of the Desert, which was filmed at The Palace Hotel in town. Throughout the festival you'll experience plenty of Drag, comedy, cabaret, live music and social activities paying homage to this iconic cult movie and stage musical.

Experience some local art

The Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery is the state's oldest regional art gallery, and has just undergone a huge refurbishment. This space in the heart of Broken Hill carries an impressive collection of artworks from Australia and overseas. And, with the gallery's fresh new look has come a new way of exhibiting works: permanent displays are no more; instead, pieces will rotate through the gallery as part of themed exhibitions.

Check out the Living Desert

In 1993, artists from around the world came to this area to create 12 sandstone sculptures in the middle of the desert outside Broken Hill. Giant sandstone blocks weighing more than 50 tonnes were shipped in to create the art which still stands today.

The sculptures can be found on Sundown Hill, in the Living Desert Reserve, a 15-minute drive north of the city. It's a magical spot with sweeping views of the outback landscape and can be accessed by road or a 900m walking trail from the Living Desert Picnic Area.

READ MORE: The things you need to know before you visit Venice

Step back in time at a milk bar

Bells Milk Bar and Museum has been in operation since the 1950s, with famous milkshakes, sodas and spiders on the menu. The original décor is still intact, with the jukebox playing hits from the '50s, and a good assortment of food to choose from.

The accompanying museum offers a great look back at Australia's milk bar and café culture.

Taste some local gin

At the local Broken Hill Distillery, don't expect your stock-standard gin. Here, they infuse the spirits using local fauna - think redgum honey, quandong. rosemary, mint and wattleseed.

Stop by for lunch and a tasting, or take a tour of the distillery to learn how the sausage - or in this case, gin - is made. 

Property News: A couple were left scrambling when their $1.6 million property was listed for sale by scammers for only $10,000.

Aussie influencer slammed for calling Italian food 'overrated'

Utopia of the Seas officially joins Royal Caribbean

The best ecotourism experiences in Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation

• Things to Do

Attractions

Eat & drink, history & heritage.

• Events & What's On
• Outback Adventure

Indigenous Culture

• Sustainable Travel

Broken Hill

Corner country, white cliffs, wilcannia, tilpa & louth.

• Plan Your Trip
• Accommodation

Getting Here

• Roads & Access
• Accessibility
• Maps & Guides
• Visitor Information Centres
• Weather & Climate

The Living Desert & Sculptures

The Living Desert is Broken Hill City Council’s contribution to the environment, for the protection of native flora and fauna and for the better management of our ecosystem and sustainability.

Venture underground in this quirky little town built into rocky cliffs and fossick through opal fields to find your very own treasure.

Travel distances between outback townships can be long and the road rugged. Doing some homework on your route options can make all the difference!

Site search

Broken hill & the outback, it's out there.

From the landscapes to the artworks, Broken Hill and the Outback is a place filled with eccentricities. Discover a different kind of outback, a place of sprawling natural beauty, home to a strong community of friendly, resilient and creative people. Discover what’s out there.

Welcome to a world like no other.

A world where past, present and future meet. Where creativity, expression and innovation are celebrated. Where a rich and fascinating history is cherished, and where new adventures lie around every bend in the road.

Arts & Culture

Discover the soul of Broken Hill in its thriving arts scene and quirky culture.

Learn how mining here has shaped Broken Hill, Australia and beyond.

Find the most memorable things to do and see.

Gain a deeper understanding of thousands of years of Indigenous Culture.

Explore a food scene inspired by a diverse melting pot of cultures.

The Outback

Venture out into the rugged, untamed beauty of the outback.

Where do you want to go?

The cultural capital of the outback.

Discover a city where art galleries outnumber pubs, where a rich history lives on in daily life, where self-expression is celebrated like nowhere else. Discover Broken Hill.

Quintessential Quirkiness

Explore the original mining settlement in the region, now home to a hub of artists, creatives and eccentric outback larrikinism.

Head Into the Great Unknown

Head north toward the Queensland border to find vast and rugged landscape, rich with thousands of years of Indigenous history.

Where Natural Wonders Abound

Journey to the oldest European settlement in western NSW to discover ancient, breathtaking lakes and myriad natural wonders.

Uncover Hidden Gems

Communities connected by a sacred river.

Once a vital trade route, this stretch along the banks of the Darling River is home to countless Indigenous heritage sites, historical buildings and scenic river views.

Where it All Comes Together

Find the place where the Darling meets the Murray. Once a vital river port home to a fleet of paddle steamers, there’s a treasure trove of secrets to uncover in Wentworth.

Suggestions

The local tips.

Tom is all about adventure. Whether it’s wandering through city streets or hitting the road in the great outdoors, Tom loves to capture the stories of the people and places he encounters in his travels. He has always been drawn to places that are out of the ordinary, so naturally Broken Hill has become a favourite destination of his.

Outback Guides

Our team of adventurers are Outback travel addicts, dedicated to finding the hidden gems that will take your trip from fun to unforgettable! Hikers, 4-Wheel-Drivers, Art Lovers, Foodies and Adrenaline Junkies, you can count on our Outback Guides for the hottest travel tips!

Sam McMillan

Sam approaches each destination with a desire to explore in depth. He believes that travel is not just about ticking off landmarks, but about immersing oneself in the local culture and lifestyle. Sam's writing is characterised by a deep curiosity and a willingness to dig beneath the surface. He seeks out lesser-known sites and spends time getting to know the people and their stories.

Art Deco Charm at the Royal Exchange Hotel

Exploring the Line of Lode Miner's Memorial

Unearthing broken hill's mining history.

The Artistic Soul of Broken Hill

Down the Darling

The Silver Screen in The Silver City

10 reasons to make broken hill your next outback destination.

24 Hours in Broken Hill

National Treasures

5 Unmissable Natural Attractions

Curated experiences, itineraries.

Spend a Day in the Silver City

Looking for a taste of what Broken Hill has to offer? This quick itinerary will familiarise you with…

If you only have one day to spend in Broken Hill, don't worry! With this guide, you'll be able to…

Gain a deeper understanding of thousands of years of indigenous history, take in some of the most…

Be sure to pack your camera on this one! Surreal landscapes and an abundance of history awaits on…

#destinationbrokenhill

Going outback.

Install the app and go offline.

This site uses cookies to gain an understanding of visitor behaviour for the purposes of studying that behaviour and the effect of changes to the user experience. To accept this, please press accept below. In accepting this, you acknowledge the use of cookies and permit the use of data for the above purpose. We are also currently researching how people use websites utilising eye-tracking software. To be a part of this study, please select opt-in.

How can we help you today?

Popular searches.

• Contactless payments
• Routes and timetables
• Concessions
• School student travel
• Opal Travel app
• Travel info
• Ways to get around
• Regional Trains and Coaches

Book Sydney to Broken Hill by train

Book online and save

Get a 10% discount when you book online, or up to 20% discount when you book 5 or more days in advance. Conditions apply.

Discount is exclusive to tickets bought through this website and applies to seasonal Adult fares.  

Book a NSW TrainLink train from Sydney to Broken Hill

Tickets available in both directions.

Travel in style and comfort from Sydney Central Station to Broken Hill with NSW TrainLink. With a variety of seating options to choose from, including economy and first class, you can customise your journey to suit your needs.The Broken Hill Outback Explorer train runs weekly every Monday to Broken Hill. Daily XPT train services to Dubbo with coach connections to Broken Hill, Bourke and Lightning Ridge are also available.

Highlights:

• On board buffet car
• Choice of Economy or First Class travel
• Stunning Australian countryside.

How to book

• Book tickets  online, over the phone, or at the station .
• Advance booking is recommended to secure your seats and ensure availability.

Ways to save

The best ways to save on train fares from Sydney to Broken Hill: 

• Book online and save:  Get the best fares and secure your seats by booking online. You can save up to 10% on your ticket price when you book online.
• Book in advance:  When you book a Standard Adult fare online 5 or more days before your planned departure date, you can get a discount of up to 20% on your fare.  Conditions apply .
• Travel outside of peak season - Peak fares apply during busy travel periods, including in the lead up to and during school holidays, public holidays and major events.  Check fare seasons times to see when you can save .
• Look out for special deals  - Take advantage of special sale fares  when they're on offer. 
• Buy a Discovery Pass - Get unlimited travel to more than 365 destinations.

Please note: Opal cards are not accepted on NSW TrainLink trains.

Seating options

When travelling on Regional train services, you can book a style of travel that suits your needs. 

Economy Class Seat

• 1 piece of large luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
• Lean back on 28 degree recline seats
• Air conditioned cabin

First Class Seat

• 2 pieces of luggage and 1 hand luggage
• Stretch out with a 40 degree seat recline and extra leg room

Book your trip now

* All fares shown are one-way Adult fares only. Fares vary seasonally in response to demand and may be different to those shown here.

Find out more about XPLORER train carriages layout .

Trip summary

The things to know before you go

Route map and timetables

Check out the full train timetables departing from Sydney to Broken Hill, and for the reverse journey from Broken Hill to Sydney.  Check travel alerts  for up-to-date information before you travel.

Sydney to Broken Hill

Broken hill to sydney.

Explore Broken Hill

Riding the Rails: The Sydney to Broken Hill Train

I rode my first Sydney to Broken Hill train as a child way back in the late 1970s on the Silver City Comet and what a trip it was. These days, the route is served by the XPT Outback Explorer. Below travel writer Joanne Karcz shares her recent experience of this special NSW train trip.

Exploring Outback NSW By Train

Map sydney to broken hill train route, sydney to broken hill faq.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy  for more information.

It’s 5:30am and Sydney’s Central Station is virtually empty. My train, the NSW TrainLink Outback Explorer, leaves for Broken Hill at 6:18am. At a fraction of the cost of the more luxurious Indian Pacific, it’s an affordable alternative. This way I get to spend time in Broken Hill and by travelling during the day, will experience the expanse of this vast country as we trundle west.

But first coffee. The café come sandwich shop down the escalator opens early and their coffee hits the spot.

A railway official tells me, “First Class is always fully booked”

It’s also full of seniors. The two economy carriages are relatively empty. Next time I’ll save the extra dollars and book Economy. While there’s extra leg space in First Class, there are plenty of free seats in Economy. And the broader demographic from mothers with their offspring through to older folk make for more interesting travel companions.

With a faint hoot of the horn, the train glides silently out of the station. As soon as I realise we are moving I check my watch. It’s 6:18 exactly. The driver welcomes us aboard, announcing that we’ll be travelling 1150km to Broken Hill. The trip will take 13 hours.

Fellow passengers have come prepared with pillows. Some are already asleep. I on the other hand am wide awake, peering out the window at the awakening city.

Someone asks, “Is there Wi-Fi?” No, there isn’t. Nor are there charging points, and phone signal will be sporadic.

But there is a buffet with fresh sandwiches, snacks and even a Devonshire Tea. After 12pm those who are so inclined can purchase a beer or wine by the glass.

My face glued to the window, I notice a temple in Homebush, a flock of Ibis gathered in a tree in Lidcombe, and the Museum of Fire in Penrith.

Low cloud hangs in the valleys as we pass through the Blue Mountains. The bush shows signs of recovery after severe bushfires. Some trees didn’t survive, their stark grey branches reaching like gnarled old fingers into the sky.

The landscape changes regularly, from Sydney’s suburban sprawl, along mountain passes and past sandstone outcrops. Dense housing has given way to a more rural scene. We pass through rolling green fields, fields of yellow canola contrasting with the purple patches of Patterson’s curse.

As the scenery changes, animal sightings become more frequent. Sheep with newborn lambs graze lush green pastures. Black cattle chew thoughtfully, slowly turning their heads to watch the train pass. I even spot two camels long before we reach the outback.

A mob of kangaroos, disturbed by the train, bound off into the distance. Emus with their chicks scuttling behind them run from the tracks. Families of feral goats race away, tails in the air.

The sound the horn blasting repeatedly pierces the air. It’s followed by a loud thud. Passengers groan. That kangaroo was too slow.

A predatory bird rests on a farm fence. A flock of parrots fly off on our approach. I spot sulphur crested cockatoos, pink and grey galahs and striking crimson rosellas.

Passengers read, doze, knit or crochet. One man does knee raises in the aisle. Another suggests a sing-a- long but there aren’t any takers. The line at the buffet grows as lunch time approaches.

Some of the towns where we stop are familiar Bathurst, Orange, Parkes. Others I’ve not heard of Blayney, Euabalong West, Ivanhoe and Darnick. During longer stops, I stretch my legs by walking briskly along the length of platform always keeping an eye and ear out for when it’s time to board.

The further west we travel, the green fields make way for red dirt, bush and scrub. Where there is grass, it’s dry.

At Ivanhoe two neatly dressed women stand on the platform beside a rack of brochures. They are Jehovah’s Witnesses. A passenger gives them a big hug saying “we’re sisters”.

Two wide-eyed young women with German accents alight from the train, giggling nervously at the prospect of spending time in this isolated place. A farmer waiting beside her dusty 4×4 greets them and helps them haul their heavy backpacks into the back.

The train only stops at Darnick on request. A short platform means that the two men getting off must walk through our carriage into the driver’s compartment from where they alight. They’re carrying enormous backpacks and four litres of water each. The driver wishes them luck as they head off on their adventure.

It’s been raining and unusually, water lies dormant for miles on either side of the track. The Menindee Lakes are full. Water wraps around the trunks of dead leafless trees.

The sun sets as we wind our way towards Broken Hill. In the fading evening light, I make out the city in the distance, lights twinkling against the now dark sky.

I’ve enjoyed every minute of this long train journey. I didn’t even open a book. The passing scenery was all the entertainment I needed.

What days does the Sydney to Broken Hill service operate? The Outback Explorer from Sydney to Broken Hill leaves at 6:18am every Monday. It returns on Tuesday mornings at 7:15am. This is the only direct train. On other days, take the train to Dubbo and then a coach to Broken Hill or the reverse from Broken Hill.

Note taxis can be scarce at Broken Hill Station when you arrive. I walked to my accommodation.

The train service makes 15 stops between Central Station and Broken Hill.

How much is the train fare from Sydney to Broken Hill? Fares start at $72 one way Book your tickets directly with NSW TrainLink here. The train is the cheapest way to get to Broken Hill from Sydney.

What days does the Sydney to Broken Hill service operate? The Outback Explorer service from Sydney to Broken Hill leaves at 6:18am every Monday. The return journey is on Tuesday mornings at 7:15am. This is the only direct train.

On other days, take a train from Central Station to Dubbo and then a bus to Broken Hill or the reverse from Broken Hill.

Can you catch the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Broken Hill? This famous service which travels via Broken Hill to Adelaide and Perth makes a stop in Broken Hill however you can not buy a point-to-point ticket for this trip.

How long does the train journey from Sydney to Broken Hill take? The trip takes 13 hours from Sydney’s Central Station. You can also board from these other Sydney stations; Strathfield, Parramatta and Penrith.

What is the seating like on the train from Sydney to Broken Hill? There are two classes of seating with not a lot of difference between them. First class seating gives you a little more leg room and incline. 

Will my internet connection work on the train? No, there is very limited internet service along the route and also no seat power points. Best bring a book and a fully charged device for entertainment.

Is food and drink available on the train from Sydney to Broken Hill? There is a small kiosk that sells basic meals, snacks and drinks. There are sandwiches and you can order a hot meal from a choice of two for lunch and dinner.

What towns does the Outback Explorer train service stop at? The train stops at 15 stations as it makes its way to Broken Hill. Major stops along the route include; Katoomba, Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Parkes and Condobolin.

How long should you stay in Broken Hill? There’s more than enough to do in Broken Hill if you decide to stay for a week.

• Visit the Regional Gallery,
• Bell’s Milk Bar,
• Broken Hill Mosque
• The Palace Hotel.
• Take a tour to Silverton and another to Menindee.
• Do the free tour run by the Visitor Centre.

About the author: After spending years exploring and writing about Sydney’s suburbs and hidden treasures, Sydney-based travel writer, Joanne Karcz now writes about her travels both within Australia and Overseas. She delights in meeting locals and discovering places differently.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

Main image credit: Destination NSW

Privacy Overview

Drive Brisbane to Broken Hill

Brisbane to broken hill road trip: two epic routes.

Embarking on a road trip from Brisbane to Broken Hill unveils the rugged and captivating terrain of the Australian outback. You have two exceptional routes to choose from: the ' Around the Corner ' route, which takes you through Toowoomba, Dalby, St George, Cunnamulla, Thargomindah, Noccundra, Tibooburra, and Packsaddle, and 'The Darling River Run , which guides you via Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, Moree, Walgett, Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, and Menindee. Each route offers a distinct adventure filled with unique experiences and natural beauty.

Route 1: Brisbane to Broken Hill - "Around the Corner"

The scenic route, brisbane to toowoomba.

Your journey commences in Brisbane, and the first leg takes you to Toowoomba, approximately 125 kilometres. Toowoomba, known as the "Garden City," offers a vibrant floral scene and the stunning Picnic Point Lookout.

Toowoomba to Dalby

From Toowoomba, proceed southwest to Dalby along the Warrego Highway (A2). The drive covers about 80 kilometres, and Dalby is an inviting town with a rich agricultural history.

Dalby to Cunnamulla

As you leave Dalby, your next stop is Cunnamulla, situated 380 kilometres to the west. The drive offers an authentic taste of the Australian outback, and Cunnamulla is famous for its country music and heritage.

Cunnamulla to Thargomindah

Continue westward from Cunnamulla to Thargomindah, a distance of about 180 kilometres. Thargomindah is known for its unique artesian hot spring and the historic Royal Hotel.

Thargomindah to Tibooburra

Your journey takes you further west to Tibooburra, covering approximately 320 kilometres. Tibooburra is the gateway to Sturt National Park and steeped in indigenous history.

Tibooburra to Packsaddle

Your final leg to Packsaddle is around 160 kilometres. Packsaddle is a remote outback pub offering a genuine outback experience and a chance to stargaze in one of the world's darkest skies.

Route Highlights

• Picnic Point Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of Toowoomba from Picnic Point Lookout.
• Cunnamulla's Unique Experiences: Cunnamulla offers experiences like the Artesian Time Tunnel and the Cunnamulla Fella Centre.
• Sturt National Park: Explore Sturt National Park, where you can witness the rugged beauty of the outback and its wildlife.
• Packsaddle Pub: Experience the quintessential outback pub culture at Packsaddle.

Route 2: Brisbane to Broken Hill via the Darling River Run

Along the mighty darling river, brisbane to goondiwindi.

Commencing in Brisbane, your journey leads you southwest to Goondiwindi, about 340 kilometres. Goondiwindi is known for its cotton fields and its Natural Heritage and water Park.

Goondiwindi to Moree

From Goondiwindi, head south to Moree, approximately 215 kilometres away. Moree is famous for its artesian hot springs, and you can unwind in these relaxing thermal pools.

Moree to Walgett

Travelling further south, you'll reach Walgett, about 150 kilometres away. Walgett is where the Namoi and Barwon Rivers converge, and it has a rich indigenous history.

Walgett to Bourke

Your journey continues to Bourke, covering roughly 90 kilometres. Bourke is a historic town on the banks of the Darling River, offering attractions like the Back O' Bourke Exhibition Centre.

Bourke to Louth

From Bourke, drive west to Louth, around 100 kilometres. Louth is a peaceful town known for its pub and proximity to the Darling River.

Louth to Tilpa

Your journey leads you to Tilpa, about 85 kilometres away. Tilpa is a tiny outback town with a big heart and the Tilpa Hotel, where you can enjoy a cold beverage.

Tilpa to Wilcannia

As you continue along the Darling River, you'll reach Wilcannia, about 170 kilometres. Wilcannia offers a glimpse into the indigenous heritage of the region.

Wilcannia to Menindee

Your final leg will take you to Menindee, around 150 kilom

etres away. Menindee is famous for its lakes and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.

• Goondiwindi Natural Heritage & Water Park: Explore the serene environment and enjoy the beautiful parklands.
• Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre: Relax in the artesian hot springs of Moree and rejuvenate in the therapeutic waters.
• Back O' Bourke Exhibition Centre: Discover the history of Bourke and the region's connection to the Darling River.
• Menindee Lakes: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Menindee Lakes and experience the vibrant birdlife.

A road trip from Brisbane to Broken Hill is an exhilarating journey through the heart of the Australian outback. Whether you choose the "Around the Corner" route via Toowoomba, Dalby, St George, Cunnamulla, Thargomindah, Noccundra, Tibooburra, and Packsaddle, or "The Darling River Run" via Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, Moree, Walgett, Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, and Menindee, you're in for a memorable adventure. Both routes offer unique experiences, historical landmarks, and the stunning landscapes of outback Australia. Make your choice, pack your bags, and hit the road to discover the beauty of the Australian outback from Brisbane to Broken Hill.

• Films of Broken Hill and Silverton

Getting to Broken Hill

• Broken Hill Visitor Information Centre
• Broken Hill Mining
• Miner’s Way to Moonta SA
• Historic Buildings of Silverton
• History of Silverton
• Broken Hill Galleries
• Broken Hill Walks
• The Living Desert and Sculptures
• Broken Hill Local Drive
• Drives around Broken Hill
• Historic Silverton
• National Parks around Broken Hill
• Broken Hill Town Map
• Broken Hill History
• Visit Corner Country

How do you get here?

• Road: By road from Mildura , Sydney and Adelaide.
• Coach: Coach travel is available from Adelaide and Mildura .
• Train: By train from Sydney and Adelaide with Countrylink and Great Southern Railways (Indian Pacific or Laser/XPT Sydney-Dubbo-Broken Hill).
• Air: By air from Sydney and Adelaide with Rex.
• Remote regions: A 4WD is suggested for venturing into more remote areas.

What’s the weather like?

• Summer: Warm to hot summers with temperatures climbing to 38c° and over about 10 days a year. The average high for summer months is about 32C.
• Winters: Mild winters, about 15-16c°.
• Rainfall: Rainfall averages around 20mm a month.

Do you know what the time is?

Broken Hill and Silverton operate on Central Standard Time. All other towns in our region operate on Eastern Standard time.

Featured Businesses

• Things to do in Broken Hill
• Family Fun in Broken Hill
• Local Broken Hill Drive
• Broken Hill Events

• Broken Hill
• Discover Murray River
• Website Design: Brand Action
• Photography: Shane Strudwick Images

Honest tourism information about Australia

Cobar to Broken Hill road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops

• David Whitley
• Practicalities

The Cobar to Broken Hill road trip is a dry, dusty and empty one with few fuel stops. Go along the Barrier Highway and the Cobar to Broken Hill drive is 457km long, with a 4h45m driving time.

The Cobar to Broken Hill drive along the Barrier Highway is one of Australia’s epic road trips. It’ll be usually be undertaken as part of a bigger journey – say Sydney to Broken Hill or Brisbane to Adelaide. But this drive is all about the sense of scale in vast, dusty New South Wales outback.

To secure the best Cobar accommodation deals, head here .

To secure the best Broken Hill accommodation before arriving, sort it here .

Road trip essentials that many travellers forget

Search on the web, and you’ll find ludicrously long lists of equipment to take on a road trip . Australia Travel Questions isn’t going to do that to you. But it is worth buying the following road trip items before setting off . Click through for a good range of options.

• Charging cables – yes, you’ll probably need a spare at some point.
• Car charger adaptor – in case your rental car has the old-fashioned cigarette lighter rather than a USB.
• Multi USB charger – for those hotel rooms that don’t have enough power sockets.
• Fold-up chairs – to make anywhere a picnic spot.
• A really good water bottle – go for a bigger one than usual to last the longer drives.
• Packing cubes – save space but, more importantly, avoid unpacking everything every night.

Cobar to Broken Hill distance and driving time

The Cobar to Broken Hill drive is 457km in distance , with an estimated driving time of around four hours and 45 minutes.

Cobar accommodation recommendations

The best places to stay in Cobar are:

• For a decent-sized pool and kitchenettes: Crossroads Motel .
• For – usually – the cheapest prices: Copper City Motel .
• For family rooms and a restaurant: Cobar Town and Country Motor Inn .

Obviously, that’s a long stint behind the wheel, so the temptation will be to break the journey somewhere.

Cobar to Broken Hill fuel stops

You’ll need to manage your fuel on the Cobar to Broken Hill drive. There are three possible fuel stops between Cobar and Broken Hill , however. Take your pick from the Emmdale Roadhouse, Wilcannia and the Little Topar Roadhouse.

Cobar to Broken Hill road trip stops

Alas, the top attraction on the Cobar to Broken Hill route is only a few minutes out of Cobar. Mount Grenfell National Park hosts a wealth of Aboriginal rock art. A 4km loop walking track takes you to the summit for some spectacular views, calling at rock art sites on the way.

Find something AMAZING to do tomorrow

Get queue-skipping, mobile-friendly tickets for the top experiences in Australia (and the rest of the world ).

The main settlement between Cobar and Broken Hill is Wilcannia, which has some heritage buildings to admire, but is in a sorry state. Wilcannia has been notably hard-hit by drought. The Queens Head Hotel is the top road trip attraction here. This delicensed pub has been turned into a gallery and accommodation.

Click through to the next section: Via White Cliffs.

The Australia Institute study finds superannuation tax concessions widen gender, income inequalities

After working hard her whole life and raising a family, Debra Moxon had always hoped to retire by the time she was 60 so she could travel.

But that birthday came and went and the grandmother was still working as a nurse, still renting, and still struggling to accumulate the super she needed.

Then she decided she'd had enough.

She walked away from the career she had once loved, bought herself a campervan with some of her super, and set her sights on travelling around Australia with her little dog.

"I've never been out of work my whole life, so it's a really big thing [for me]," Ms Moxon said.

"I can't afford to do this really, but figure I can't afford not to.

"So many people have horrible things happen to them and they pass away and they haven't done [the things they wanted to]. You know, you only get one chance." 

To prove to herself she could, she drove her new home on wheels 2,600 kilometres from Adelaide to Townsville in just three days.

Super tax concession to worsen gender divide

While it is a good seven years before Ms Moxon is eligible for the age pension, she said she "definitely" will not have enough superannuation for retirement.

It is a common story for many women in Australia where superannuation is the biggest driver of wealth inequality .

But according to research published by think tank The Australia Institute, the federal government's super tax concessions exacerbate income and gender inequality even further.

The concessions, which will be given to those who make voluntary contributions to their super, will overwhelmingly benefit high-income earners, the report said.

The Australia Institute lead economist Greg Jericho said the current system of superannuation tax concessions would soon outpace the age pension in costs to the federal government and ultimately leave low-income earners, women, and small business owners in the lurch.

"[In Australia], we are very much on the low end of the scale when it comes to incomes and, unfortunately, we're at the high end of the scale when it comes to the proportion of people over 65 who are in poverty," he said.

"When you've got a situation or retirement policy based on how things were in the 1980s and the 1990s, it may be time to change the way we think."

And he said if the situation remained unchanged, the gap between those who retired in poverty and those who retired into wealth would only widen.

"We will be in this rather absurd situation where it is costing the government more to provide benefit to wealthy people than it is to provide benefit for lower–middle income earners," Mr Jericho said.

Tax system failing many

Before becoming a nurse 20 years ago, Ms Moxon had worked in aged care. 

Then she spent a decade buying, renovating, and selling cafes with her then-husband while raising her two daughters.

"That was the best and worst time of my life. I used to work 100 hours a week, but I absolutely loved that work, but that was 10 years out of my superannuation," she said.

"Here I am [now] and you just think, 'All that work, and it's still not going to be anywhere near enough to retire on.'

"The amount [in my super] is just minuscule. [The system is] pretty useless."

Mr Jericho said the system needed to be rethought, as other elements like the cost-of-living crisis and Australia's ageing population come into play.

He added that narratives about how the system worked needed to be quashed.

"It's not a death tax, it is not a tax on retirement, it is more to do with fairness and to ensuring that we're reducing tax avoidance by the very wealthy," he said.

"Australia's retirement system is very much based on people owning their own home and having paid it off. And if you are not in that situation, then you are really going to be behind the eight ball," he said.

In a statement, the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones said the federal government supported the tax concessions for superannuation. 

"They encourage and reward retirement savings but they have to be sustainable," he said.

"Our Better Targeted Super Concessions Bill is aimed at this."

'There's got to be a better life out there'

Adding to Ms Moxon's woes was the age discrimination she said she spent the last few years of her nursing career dealing with.

So when her finances took another hit by a rent increase on her Townsville unit, she decided to change her situation.

"I ended up working myself into the ground … and I was absolutely exhausted," Ms Moxon said.

"It totally dashes your whole self-worth. Nursing has lost its shine now. I sort of think if that's nursing today, I don't know that I want to do that anymore."

She decided to put her happiness first and embark on the adventure she had dreamed of for years but was forced to "put on the back burner".

"I thought to myself 'there's got to be a better life out there'. I've watched so many of my family's friends [get sick] and ... you hear about that all the time," Ms Moxon said.

"Once you hit 60 you do sort of think about mortality a little bit. 

"I just think 'what's the worst that can happen?'

"I think I can do it. I really do think I can do it. It's scary. Absolutely scary. But it's exciting as well."

ABC Broken Hill — local news in your inbox

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

How does my super compare to others here's a breakdown of average super balances by age.

I've been studying super for most of my career. This is what I wish I knew when I started working

'I had so much promise in my life, and that's where I ended up': A lifetime of work leads to $45k in superannuation

• Broken Hill
• Gender Equality
• Money and Monetary Policy
• Personal Finance
• Superannuation
• Travel Preparation and Advice