How to get to Albany

Picturesque Albany, located on the southern coast of Western Australia, is considered the oldest European settlement in the region and attracts travellers with its rugged natural beauty and rich history. This cosy port city, washed by the waters of the Southern Ocean, offers tourists a unique combination of colonial architecture and breathtaking landscapes.

When planning a trip to Albany, you can choose the most convenient route: a quick flight from the state capital, a scenic journey by car along the coast, or a comfortable bus ride.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a flight to the local Albany Airport (ALH), which receives regular flights and provides convenient connections to the region. The terminal is located just a few kilometres from the centre, allowing travellers to reach their hotel or attractions in a matter of minutes.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into major transport hubs such as Perth (389 km) or Busselton (279 km). From these cities, it is easy to continue your journey to Albany by rental car or use regional airlines for a connecting flight.

There is no direct rail service to the city, as Albany does not have its own passenger station. The railway in this region of Australia is used primarily for freight transport or tourist routes in other directions.

Tourists who prefer trains are advised to travel to the city of Perth, which is the state's major transport hub. From there, you can transfer to a comfortable Transwa intercity coach that will take you to the coast, or rent a car for a self-drive journey.

Bus travel is a popular and affordable way to get to the coast, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes outside the window. Regular services connect Albany with the state capital, Perth; the trip will take about 6.6 hours, covering a distance of approximately 430 km.

There are also routes from other tourist centres: a journey from the city of Busselton will last about 7.5 hours, and for those travelling from distant Esperance, the road will take more than 15 hours. Modern buses are usually equipped with air conditioning, making the long journey quite comfortable.

Travelling by car is the ideal choice for those who value freedom of movement and want to explore the scenic roads of Western Australia. The journey from the metropolis of Perth via the Albany Highway will take approximately 4.6 hours (420 km), offering excellent places for stops and rest along the way.

If you are heading from the south-west, the road from the city of Busselton will take about 3.7 hours. Travellers driving along the coast from Esperance will spend about 5 hours behind the wheel, enjoying views of the unique Australian nature.

To ensure your trip to Albany is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth noting a few local features in advance. This city is characterised by a calm pace of life and changeable weather typical of the southern coast.

1. Clothing and weather. The climate here is mild but windy. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring a windbreaker or a light jacket for evening walks along the ocean, and comfortable footwear is essential for hiking in national parks.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city is not very extensively developed. To fully explore the surroundings and remote beaches, it is best to rent a car.
3. Finances. The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash for small purchases at markets or in small cafes is useful.
4. Health and sun. The Australian sun is very active. Be sure to use sunscreen with a high SPF factor, wear a hat and sunglasses, even in cloudy weather.
5. Language. The official language is English. Locals speak with a characteristic Australian accent and use slang, but are always friendly and ready to help tourists.
6. Water safety. Swim only at patrolled beaches. The ocean here can be treacherous due to strong currents and large waves, especially on wild stretches of the coast.
7. Local etiquette. Australians value informality and politeness. It is customary to greet bus drivers and shop assistants; addressing someone by name or a simple "Mate" is quite appropriate.
8. Whale season. If you are visiting the city from May to October, be sure to plan a whale-watching excursion—this is one of the main highlights of the region.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing corner of Australia.