A long layover at Sydney Airport doesn’t have to mean pacing the terminal and watching the clock. While this isn’t an airport built for sightseeing inside the terminals, there are enough places to eat, shop, freshen up, and rest to make the wait more manageable. If you have the energy — and enough time — you may even be able to step out for a quick taste of Sydney itself. Here are seven realistic ways to pass the time on a layover at Sydney Airport.
1. Enjoy a meal
Sydney Airport offers a broad mix of cafés, casual restaurants, and takeaway spots across all terminals, with options that range from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Alongside familiar international chains, travellers can usually find Australian café culture staples like espresso-based coffee, toasted sandwiches, sausage rolls, and meat pies, as well as sweet treats such as lamingtons or slices when available. Pub-style venues and bars serve local and regional beers and wines, while lighter fare — sushi, salads, and bakery items — is easy to find for travellers who don’t want a heavy meal. Dining options thin out late at night, and there are no reliably 24-hour restaurants, so overnight travellers should eat earlier or pick up food before venues close.
2. Lounge
Airport lounges are an excellent way to pass the time, especially if you want to relax or work in a quiet environment. Any traveller, no matter airline or flight class, can pay to enter several airport lounges here. For a single fee, you get food and drinks, WiFi, and TV and news in a comfortable lounge. Most lounges here also have shower facilities for freshening up. Pre-book online or use your lounge membership program to gain entry. [ read more ]
3. Shop
Shopping at Sydney Airport is practical rather than exciting, but it does offer a chance to pick up distinctly Australian items before you leave the country. In addition to duty-free liquor, perfume, and cosmetics, you may find Australian wine, macadamia nuts, Tim Tams, Vegemite gift packs, and other locally branded snacks that travel well. Fashion and lifestyle shops sometimes feature Australian surf and outdoor labels such as Rip Curl or Billabong, along with travel essentials, books, and electronics. Availability varies by terminal, but it’s generally easy to grab last-minute souvenirs or replace forgotten basics — just expect airport pricing.
4. Freshen up
If you need to freshen up between flights, complimentary public showers are available in the International Terminal. Bring your own towel and toiletries, as these are not provided. Showers can be found before security near check-in areas and airside near selected gates, and many pay-to-enter lounges also offer shower facilities. Availability can fluctuate during busy periods, so short waits are possible. [ read more ]
5. Go sightseeing
If you have the time and energy, getting out of the airport can be a welcome break. Sydney Airport is located just south of the city centre, and a layover of 9+ hours gives you enough time for light sightseeing if connections are running smoothly.
The Airport Link train is the fastest public option, reaching Central Station in about 15 minutes and Circular Quay in roughly 20 minutes, though station access fees apply. Taxis and rideshares typically reach the city in 20–30 minutes, traffic permitting.
Once downtown, many highlights are walkable. You could see the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or visit nearby cultural stops like the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Longer outings — such as the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk — are better suited to very long layovers and good weather.
Always allow generous time to return, clear security, and account for peak-hour traffic or train delays.
However you spend your layover, leave plenty of time to return to the airport and clear Security for that next flight. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Sydney.
6. WiFi
Hop online thanks to free and unlimited airport WiFi.
7. Sleep
Trying to sleep between flights is possible but not especially comfortable. During the day, you may manage short naps, but overnight sleepers are generally limited to designated waiting areas in the International Terminal. Most seating has armrests, and the marble floors make lying down cold and uncomfortable. Bring warm layers, eye protection, and earplugs or headphones to cope with noise and lighting. [ read more ]
If you prefer a real bed, Rydges Sydney Airport is located directly opposite the International Terminal, while Mantra Hotel Sydney Airport is within walking distance of Domestic Terminals 2 and 3. Other nearby hotels are accessible by short shuttle or taxi rides. See our Sydney Airport Guide for details. [ read more ]
Updated 15 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Sydney Airport. Visit our Sydney Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.