No car? No problem. Many of NSW’s most enticing destinations can easily be reached by public transport. Just tap on and get exploring.
- 4 min read
Katoomba
Katoomba, the heart of the eco-certified Blue Mountains, is an ideal day trip by train from the city. Katoomba Station is in the centre of this historic mountain town and easy walking distance from antique shops, cosy cafes and the much-loved, and awarded, Mountain Culture Brewpub.
Join a tour with one of the local operators, like Blue Mountains Adventure Company, High and Wild or the accessible Blue Mountains Climbing School, and Blue Mountains Biking Adventures can meet you with a bike to explore mountain trails. Grand Cliff Top Walk is an iconic two-day mountains hike that’s worth extending your trip for, with both self-guided and guided options available. Buy a ticket for the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus for easy access to the most popular sights, like Scenic World, the Three Sisters, Leura Cascades and more.
Just 12 minutes up the mountains is another village, Blackheath. Here you’ll find the chic Aqua Ignis Bathhouse, top-rated Ates Blackheath and Frankie & Mo’s natural wine bar.
Time your visit: Celebrate the winter solstice at the annual Winter Magic Festival, featuring live music, street performances and food stalls.
Getting there: The train journey from Central Station to Katoomba takes just under two hours. Everything in town is within 10 minutes’ walk and buses can take you further afield.
Grand Cliff Top Walk, Wentworth Falls
Kiama
A pretty beach town on the South Coast, Kiama offers an appealing mix of golden beaches, natural wonders, delicious food and boutique shopping. It’s also well serviced by public transport. Start with the Kiama Blowhole – the largest in the world – it regularly sends sea water up to 30 metres in the air. Fuel up at one of the town's cute eateries such as Diggies, Penny Whistlers or Little Betty’s before taking a dip at Surf Beach. Follow part of the Kiama Coast Walk to discover more quiet coves and rolling landscapes.
Time your visit: Visit on a Wednesday for the excellent Kiama Farmers Market or the third Sunday of the month for the Kiama Seaside Markets.
Getting there: It’s just over two hours by train from Central Station to Kiama Station. The beaches are a 10- to 15-minute walk away and buses can take you farther up and down the coast.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama
Newcastle
NSW’s second-largest city has strong industrial roots, but Newcastle has been reborn as the capital of coastal cool. From its legendary surf beaches and tranquil ocean pools to world-class dining and lively small bars, Newcastle is one of Australia’s most underrated holiday destinations. From the train station, it’s a short walk to the Honeysuckle waterside precinct with its beautiful harbour views and then on to Darby Street, a dining hotspot. Catch the bus to Merewether Beach for a swim or surf, then follow the Newcastle Memorial Walk back north towards the city to Nobbys Beach. History buffs will enjoy a visit to Fort Scratchley and Nobbys Lighthouse on the heads.
Time your visit: Pick up fresh produce and local goods at Newcastle City Farmers Market, held every Sunday.
Getting there: The train journey from Central Station to Newcastle Interchange station is just over 2.5 hours. From there, it’s straightforward to see the city in foot, or by light rail or bus.
Newcastle Memorial Walk
Wollongong
Sydney’s laid-back southern neighbour Wollongong has undergone a transformation in recent times – it's so much more than a once-industrial, but stunning, beachside city.
After you arrive, get a bus to the Continental Pool by the harbour or Wollongong City Beach if you’re in search of some sand and sun. Fuel up at one of the many cafes along the shore, such as Diggies, or opt for a more up-market experience at Lu Mare. It’s a short walk into the city to visit the excellent Wollongong Art Gallery, one of the largest regional galleries in Australia.
Post-lunch, stroll among the luscious blooms at Wollongong Botanic Garden, where you’ll find rainforest and native wildlife.
Time your visit: The free, community-run HONK! Oz street music festival is held annually and makes for the perfect summer day trip.
Getting there: Wollongong is 90 minutes south of Sydney by train. The city has multiple train stations, a great bus network and much of it is accessible without a car.
Diggies Cafe, Wollongong
Bowral
Bowral is the epitome of Southern Highlands charm: all leafy streets, heritage homes and chic shopping. Its compact size means you can explore the whole town sans transport.
The Milk Factory Gallery Art and Design Centre is just across from the train station and then it’s only a block to Bong Bong Street, which is lined with boutique shops and antique stores – don’t miss Dirty Janes where vintage finds sit alongside artisan pieces.
Across the footpath, enjoy a cosy lunch surrounded by greenery, wicker chairs and overflowing bookshelves at Harry's on Green Lane. Cricketing great Sir Donald Bradman is a native of Bowral and the immersive Bradman Museum pays homage to his legacy. At Bowral Honey Farm try your hand at apiculture with a beekeeping experience.
Time your visit: Travel in September to see the city burst into colour during the Tulip Time Festival.
Getting there: Bowral is just over two hours by train from Sydney’s Central Station.
Bowral Honey Farm, Bowral
Maitland
Set between the vineyards of the Hunter Valley and the bright lights of Newcastle, the thriving community of Maitland has plenty to offer visitors. The city has a creative soul and you’ll see many murals and art installations around the centre, as well as works at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery. Learn about Maitland’s history on the self-guided Poverty and Prosperity Walk, then head to The Levee for riverside drinking and dining options. Wander over to Acacia Dining for sunset drinks and watch the Hunter River flow by.
Time your visit: Earth Market, Australia’s first accredited Slow Food market, is on the first and third Thursday of the month.
Getting there: It takes between three and 3.5 hours to reach Maitland by train, after changing in Newcastle. The city centre is small and you can walk to all the major attractions.
The New One mural, Maitland - Credit: Lee Nichols | Maitland City Council
Berry
A mix of country and coast, Berry is a sweet little escape on the South Coast. Wander its historic streets – follow the self-guided heritage trail to learn more about the village’s past – and browse the antique shops. Along the way, stop for treats at the famous Berry Donut Van or freshly baked scones and loose-leaf tea at The Berry Tea Shop. Then settle in for a long lunch at one of the town's many restaurants, such as The Garden or Queen St Cafe. Come afternoon, see how chocolates and confectionery are made at The Treat Factory.
Time your visit: The Berry Village Markets on the fourth Sunday of the month are well worth a visit.
Getting there: Berry is just under three hours by train from central Sydney. The village is tiny and easy to explore carless.
The Treat Factory, Berry
