I definitely give off the energy of someone who is not from here, still learning the transport system in real time. But strangely, getting lost made me feel more connected to the city. Like I’m learning it the hard way, one wrong train at a time.
Public transportation in Sydney feels deeply connected to both the culture and the physical environment of the city. Sydney is built around its harbor, coastline, and suburbs, so the transport system has had to adapt to water, hills, and long distances. Ferries aren’t just a scenic bonus; they make sense geographically. Trains stretch far beyond the city center because many people live outside the CBD and commute in. The system reflects a city that is spread out but still interconnected.
Culturally, public transport feels normal here. It’s not seen as a last resort; it’s simply how people move. Students, professionals, and families are tapping on and off with their Opal cards. There’s also an unspoken etiquette: standing on the left of escalators, quietly commuting, giving directions when someone (like me) looks completely lost. Even sustainability plays a role. In a city that values outdoor life, beaches, parks, and coastal walks, reducing congestion and emissions matters. The way people get around in Sydney mirrors its identity.
