General Airport Information
Sydney International Airport is the leading aviation hub in Sydney. It is also known as SYD Airport or Mascot Airport, while its official name is Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. It is to be found in the Mascot area, close to Botany Bay. It actually lies 12km/7,4 miles from the city center (CBD). Sydney Airport is considered one of the oldest airports, as it has been operating continuously since 1920. Nowadays, it is regarded as the busiest airport in Australia and one of the most occupied aviation hubs in the world.
Terminals
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport features three terminal buildings. Terminal 1 (T1) is the international terminal, handling flights from and to non-Australian destinations, while the other two terminals (T2 and T3) are the domestic ones. They lie close to each other, within walking distance. Terminal 2 houses various airlines, whereas T3 is considered the domestic Qantas terminal.
Hotels
SYD passengers looking for a convenient accommodation option near the terminals usually settle on the Sydney airport hotel (Aerotel), lying inside the international terminal building. Alternatively, travelers can also access several hotels near Sydney Airport, either adjacent to T1 or in proximity to the domestic terminals. On the other hand, Sydney visitors who don’t want to stay close to Kingsford Smith Airport can take their pick among a wide number of hotels and lodging options scattered around Sydney.
Parking
Sydney airport parking options are various, catering to all passengers’ needs. Car Park P7 serves the short-term and long-stay parking requirements of international passengers, whereas Parking Lots P2 and P3 lie close to domestic terminals. Moreover, Blue Emu Car Park is the longest-distance parking facility. However, it is also the cheapest one. What’s more, premium parking services are available, while travelers with disabilities are offered special services and can access designated parking zones in all the Sydney airport parking lots.
Things to Do at Sydney Airport
Layovers at Sydney International Airport are never boring. Indeed, there are countless things to do at Sydney Airport during a short or even a long layover, while the nearby hotels are the recommended option for overnight stays as terminals remain closed during the night hours. On the other hand, Sydney might be an ideal base for trips around New South Wales, but it’s also a destination worth exploring. Thus, you’ll find numerous thrilling things to do in Sydney, no matter your preferences or budget.