No car? No problem. Many of NSW’s most enticing destinations can easily be reached by public transport. Grab your Opal card and get exploring.
- 4 min read
Katoomba
The heart of the Blue Mountains is the ideal day trip by train from the city. Katoomba Station is in the centre of this historic mountain town, easy walking distance from antique shops, cosy cafes and the Mountain Culture Brewpub. It’s easy to join a tour with one of the local operators, like Blue Mountains Adventure Company or High and Wild, and Blue Mountains Biking Adventures can meet you with a bike to explore mountain trails. 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.
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 the Explorer Bus will take you further afield.
Scenic World, Blue Mountains
Kiama
A pretty beach town on the South Coast, Kiama has an appealing mix of golden beaches, natural wonders, delicious food and boutique shopping. It’s also well serviced by public transport. Start with the famous 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 cafes, such as The Hungry Monkey or Miss Arda, before taking a dip at Surf Beach and following 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 blowhole and beaches are a 10- to 15-minute walk away and buses can take you further up and down the coast.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama
Newcastle
NSW’s second city was built on steel and shipping, but it’s been reborn as the capital of coastal cool. From its legendary surf beaches and tranquil ocean pools to world-class dining and buzzy 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. 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 easy to see the city in foot, by light rail or by bus.
Newcastle Memorial Walk
Wollongong
Another industrial city that’s undergone a dramatic transformation, Wollongong is Sydney’s laid-back southern neighbour and ideal for a carless day trip. Once you arrive, it’s easy to 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 Levendi. It’s a short walk into the city to visit the excellent Wollongong Art Gallery, one of the largest regional galleries in Australia.
Time your visit: The free, commununity-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 easily walkable.
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 on foot. 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. A five-minute walk to the railway station, it makes the perfect final stop of the day.
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. You can see the whole town on foot.
Dirty Janes, Bowral
Maitland
Set between the vineyards of the Hunter Valley and the bright lights of Newcastle, sleepy 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 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.
Time your visit: If you’re passionate about sustainability, 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 fine 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 on foot.
The Treat Factory, Berry
