Sydney's train network is an efficient way of travelling around the city. Take the City Circle to connect to the harbour ferries at Circular Quay, the retail precinct around Town Hall Station, and Central Station. Use the Trip Planner tool to map your route.

Sydney's train system is generally considered very good and highly reliable, especially following the massive expansion of the Sydney Metro in 2024 and 2025. The network is the backbone of the city's transport, connecting the CBD to distant suburbs like Parramatta, Penrith, and the North Shore with high-frequency services. In 2026, the system has seen further improvements with 24-hour "special event" services being trialed for major celebrations like Mardi Gras, a first for the city. Travelers appreciate the use of the "Opal" card or simple contactless payment (tapping a credit card or phone) which works across trains, ferries, and light rail. While the network is prone to occasional "trackwork" disruptions on weekends—where buses replace trains for maintenance—the overall coverage is extensive. For a tourist, the trains provide a fast, clean, and scenic way to navigate the city, with the City Circle loop offering easy access to every major landmark.