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Perfect 1 Day Blue Mountains Itinerary (Local’s Guide)

Are you looking for the perfect one-day itinerary for your visit to the Blue Mountains?

If so, then this post is for you! My friend Luca is an 18-year-old full-time traveler. She is the writer behind the youth travel blog ‘ Hello World, Here I Come ‘. Luca has lived in the Blue Mountains for 18 years – and shared all her insider knowledge with me for this post.

The Blue Mountains is a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage site just 2 hours from the center of Sydney, Australia.

It is a natural wonder known for its beautiful scenery, dramatic steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests that haze the mountains blue, waterfalls, and small villages that dot its landscape.

Its beauty is not unnoticed, with millions of people making the journey to visit every year. It can be hard to find great, non-touristic spots in the area.

After having lived here her whole life, Luca knows a thing or two about the Blue Mountains. And I think it is fair to say that she has come up with the best one-day Blue Mountains self-drive itinerary in this post.

Keep on reading for a slow and peaceful, authentic itinerary, that will undoubtedly give you the tranquil mountains experience you are craving.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Blue mountains itinerary – at a glance, 1. drive to katoomba and swim in minnehaha falls, 2. continue in katoomba and stop at echo point, 3. lunch and coffee at the megalong valley tearooms, 4. enjoy a wine tasting at dryridge estate, 5. catch a sunset at mt blackheath, important: sustainable tourism in the blue mountains, about the blue mountains national park, organized tours, private car or taxi service, weather in the blue mountains, conclusion: blue mountains itinerary, faq: blue mountains itinerary, about the author.

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If you are just looking for the Blue Mountains One Day Self-Drive Itinerary, look no further.

For further information, insider tips, and sustainable travel advice keep on scrolling.

• Drive from Sydney to Katoomba
• Swimming in the Minnehaha Falls
• Katoomba Street Shopping
• Megalong Valley Tea Rooms
• Wine Tasting at Dryridge Estate
• Sunset at Mt. Blackheath

This self-drive itinerary for one day in the Blue Mountains includes must-see places and local secret tips alike.

All in all, the driving time is about 4,5 hours and 282 km.

Minnehaha Falls is Luca’s favorite place in all of the Blue Mountains.

It is an incredible waterfall with a large swimming spot underneath. Altogether it is a 1.6 km round trip walk to access it. That will usually take you around an hour.

It is usually busy on weekends and public holidays. But that is quickly forgotten when you set eyes on these beautiful falls.

When going to Minnehaha, there are a number of unspoken local rules. The first one is, to take your rubbish home with you. Bring your own garbage bag and dispose of any rubbish when you return to Sydney or your accommodation.

Minnehaha Falls is a natural wonder, but in recent years locals have gone to find rubbish overflowing in parking lot bins, and careless littering with no regard for the place in question.

The second rule is, don’t play loud music. This is a very special place for a lot of locals and a spot to really connect with nature and be in the present moment. Bringing a speaker with loud music disrupts the tranquility of this incredible place. Enjoy the sounds of the birds and the waterfall instead!

And lastly, this is a sacred place. Walk gently on the land and be with care. Be careful to be quiet and respectful, it is definitely not a place to party!

Echo Point is an easy-to-access lookout offering a stunning panorama.

It has great facilities, a gift shop, and most importantly an amazing view .

Echo Point is definitely popular, but it is worth the hype for the best view of the Three Sisters Rock Formation.

You can stop here to take some photos and marvel at the mountains. Take in the amazing blue haze that is so obvious from this vantage point!

Finish up with a quick stop off in Katoomba Street to do some shopping (a great way to support local businesses).

Some great local stores are ‘The Little Lost Bookshop’, ‘ Incantations ‘ and ‘ Frankly My Dear Coffee’.

Have a nice snack, but be sure not to fill up too much! Some amazing coffee and food is yet to come.

Megalong Valley Tearooms is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. And there is good reason for that.

A 40-minute scenic drive through the town of Blackheath, and down through rain-forest will take you into the Megalong Valley. This is where you will find the Megalong Valley Tearooms.

You will find a cozy cottage with a crackling fire, a funky atmosphere, and a beautiful view of the valley.

But most importantly, the chefs and baristas serve up some of the tastiest food and coffee in the Blue Mountains.

From bacon and egg rolls to their famous scones, and a plowman’s plate, they offer something for every taste. They source natural ingredients from their farm , which I absolutely love.

It’s farm-to-table at its best, with a reasonable price and incredible atmosphere.

Keep in mind that this spot is also very popular . So be prepared to wait up to an hour for food and coffee. But you can spend that time exploring this slice of paradise (and sometimes you’ll even find horses).

After a wonderful lunch with full bellies, it’s time for one of the best Megalong experiences.

For about AUD $ 10 per person, you can taste some of the best wine the Mountains have to offer.

With a beautiful backdrop, this wine tasting is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Dryridge is a boutique vineyard that was founded in 2000 . The pink granite soil that the vineyard is built on adds a minerality to the wines that makes it incredibly unique.

Not only does Dryridge have wonderful wine, but it is also a lovely place to explore .

The wine tasting offers an authentic experience, and you’ll be supporting a local business along the way!

Mt Blackheath vantage point can be found after a 10-minute drive from Blackheath town center.

It is a wonderful place to watch the often spectacular sunsets.

Grab a picnic blanket and sit on the edge of the takeoff pad, you might even catch some para-gliders circling above!

A sunset at Mt. Blackheath is the perfect end to a wonderful day trip in the Blue Mountains.

The Blue Mountains are an incredible place to visit. It is important to be conscious of sustainability when traveling here.

The mountain’s beauty and biodiversity are under threat due to an influx of tourists every year. Over 4.4 million people visit the park annually, and many are all but careful about preserving it.

If you also want to know how you can travel here more sustainably, Luca will tell you all about sustainable travel to the Blue Mountains.

Make sure to read up on the tips provided by the local community on how to protect their beautiful home.

To sum it up a bit, make sure to take your trash home, support local businesses, don’t feed the native animals, and don’t play any loud music.

Before you head out to the Blue Mountains National Park, it is important to have some general info about the park and its heritage.

The Blue Mountains National Park is a natural wonder located in New South Wales, Australia. It is not far from Sydney.

The park is famous for its stunning vistas, featuring deep valleys and waterfalls . There is an ever-present blue haze that comes from eucalyptus oil evaporating from the trees.

One of the iconic sights in the park is the Three Sisters rock formation . Local legends add a fascinating cultural layer to these geological formations.

If you’re into hiking, the park offers a variety of trails, like the Wentworth Falls route or the Prince Henry Cliff Walk.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find a lot to love, too. The park is home to kangaroos, wombats, and many bird species.

For those interested in subterranean wonders, the nearby Jenolan Caves offer incredible limestone formations and guided tours. The area is also rich in Aboriginal heritage. Find ancient rock paintings and cultural walks that let you dive into Australia’s indigenous history.

The Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens and the Bridal Veil Falls are also among visitor’s favorites.

How to Get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

Here are some helpful tips on how to organize transportation for your one day in the Blue Mountain itinerary.

Board a train at the Sydney Central Station headed for Katoomba Station. The journey generally takes around 2 hours. Trains run frequently, and you’ll be able to enjoy scenic views along the way. This is the most sustainable way to travel to the Blue Mountains National Park.

If you opt to drive, you can take the M4 motorway and Great Western Highway. The drive usually takes approximately 90 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Check DiscoverCars if you need to book a rental car in Sydney.

Many companies offer day trips to the Blue Mountains. These tours often include transportation, guided walks, and sometimes even meals. This is a convenient way to see the major attractions without the hassle of planning.

Keep in mind that this is not the most sustainable option to visit. Please refer to the train if you want to make less of an impact on the locals and nature.

For a more luxurious experience, you can hire a private car or taxi. This option provides the convenience of door-to-door service but comes at a higher cost.

The weather in the Blue Mountains National Park can be quite different depending on the season. It is important to check the weather forecast before your trip. Here are some general weather guidelines that you can keep in mind.

Summer : It’s warmer but not super hot, usually between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Sometimes you’ll get afternoon storms.

Autumn : Cooler, but still comfy. Great for hiking and outdoor stuff. Temperatures range from 50-70°F (10-21°C).

Winter : It can get pretty chilly, dropping down to 35°F (2°C) or lower at night. Sometimes there’s even a bit of snow!

Spring : Expect mild temps, around 50-70°F (10-21°C). Flowers start to bloom, making it super pretty.

Remember, weather can change quickly because of the elevation, so it’s good to pack layers.

As you have seen in this post, the Blue Mountains National Park has a lot to offer.

This amazing itinerary has been suggested by a Blue Mountains Local and takes you to the best spots the area has to offer.

From a stunning view from Echo Point, a swim in the Minnehaha Falls, and a wine tasting at a local winery: this itinerary has everything.

This itinerary promises an authentic and fun experience – just what you need to have a fun day at the Blue Mountains.

As this post has stressed before, it is important to be respectful of nature and the locals when traveling to this area. Bring your trash home with you and don’t make a lot of noise.

Lastly, make sure to buy some souvenirs and support local businesses!

Yes, a day trip to the Blue Mountains is definitely worth it. With only 2 hours of driving time from Sydney, you can be there. In just one day you can catch some of the highlights of the Blue Mountains National Park. For a more immersive experience, make it a longer stay.

No, you do not need a car to explore the Blue Mountains. Taking public transport is a great and sustainable way to explore the beautiful area. You can take the train from Sydney Central Station to the Blue Mountains and be there in about 2 hours.

It takes about 1,5 hours of driving time to reach the Blue Mountains from Sydney.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Blue Mountains 1-Day Itinerary: the complete guide

In this article, based on my recent visit, I have put together a detailed 1-Day itinerary for visiting the Blue Mountains. If your schedule permits, you can also expand this itinerary into a multi-day holiday with additional walking trails and attractions around the Blue Mountains (as mentioned in the itinerary below).

Tips: The Blue Mountains is one of Sydney’s most popular weekend destinations. To avoid the crowd, try to plan your visit on weekdays and outside of school holidays.

How to Get to the Blue Mountains

Since the Blue Mountains National Park is only a 90-minute drive from Sydney , many visitors visit the Blue Mountains by car for convenience. With that said, public transport is also a great option when visiting the Blue Mountains from Sydney.

Visit the Blue Mountains By Car

Katoomba is a major town in the Blue Mountains, and it is also the first stop for many visitors visiting the Blue Mountains National Park. Located 100 kilometres west of Sydney, Katoomba is a 90-minute drive from Sydney CBD via toll roads . If you are trying to avoid using toll roads, it will usually add around 30 minutes in a one-way commute.

Once you have driven past Woodford, the drive tends to get very scenic, with lush green mountain tops and picturesque villages. You may also wish to check out the charming little town of Leura before arriving at the buzzing Katoomba. From Katoomba, most walking tracks and lookouts are typically only a short drive away.

Visit the Blue Mountains by Public Transport

If driving is out of your consideration, you can still easily visit the Blue Mountains from Sydney via public transport.

Blue Mountains Line is a train service between Sydney and the Blue Mountains. It only takes 2 hours for a one-way ride between Sydney Central Station and Katoomba & stops at popular attractions, such as Wentworth Falls, Leura, and Blackheath. With regular departures and extended operating hours, the train service between Sydney and Katoomba is undoubtedly very convenient for people visiting the Blue Mountains.

You can pay for the train rides using an Opal Card or a credit/debit card (contactless payment option required). A train ride between Sydney and Katoomba is currently AUD 9.31 during peak hours & AUD 6.51 off-peak (February 2023). This makes it very affordable to visit the Blue Mountains instead of car hire.

Once you have arrived at Katoomba (or Leura, if preferred), you can take a local bus to popular attractions, such as Echo Point Lookout, Katoomba Falls, and Scenic World.

Where to Park in the Blue Mountains

Since Echo Point Lookout is undoubtedly the most famous and popular attraction in the Blue Mountains, parking at Echo Point Lookout comes at a cost. I remember it was around AUD 4 per hour to park at Echo Point Lookout when I visited. Free off-street parking was available on nearby side streets, but most have a time limit. If you are only planning to visit the lookout, it should be fine, but if you are considering a hike from Echo Point, you may need to find an alternative parking option.

From my experience, the best parking option was at Scenic World , where I found plenty of suitable free parking spots. The only thing to note is this car park closes at 7 pm daily, so you will need to make sure your car is out of the gate before 7 pm.

Alternatively, you can also find free parking spots at Katoomba Falls Reserve . It is also within walking distance of Echo Point Lookout, Katoomba Falls, Scenic World, and various walking tracks.

Where to Stay in the Blue Mountains

Scenic World Discovery Pass

The cost of a Scenic World Discovery Pass is AUD 49.9 per adult (February 2023). You can take these rides as many times as you wish throughout the day. It is an excellent addition to a scenic trip to the Blue Mountains & can also save you some walking time between certain attractions.

My favourite part of using the Scenic World Discovery Pass is taking the Scenic Skywalk across Jamison Valley. It provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the lush green rainforest and sandstone cliff face of the Blue Mountains . It also offers a full view of the cascading Katoomba Falls , which is only visible via Scenic Skyway or helicopter rides. This view of Katoomba Falls alone is already well worth the cost of a Discovery Pass.

Since I visited the Blue Mountains with a Scenic World Discovery Pass, this Blue Mountains day trip itinerary will include the use of the Scenic Walkway, Railway, and Cableway. If you are not interested in obtaining a Discovery Pass, you can also reach all the attractions on this itinerary by walking or by car.

Blue Mountains 1-Day Itinerary

To get the most out of your Blue Mountains day trip, leave Sydney early in the morning so you can have more time to explore the Blue Mountains. If possible, try to leave Sydney before 7 am . This is especially true if you are driving to the Blue Mountains.

Katoomba is a charming country town located in the heart of the Blue Mountains. It is also only a short drive away from many Blue Mountains landmarks , such as Echo Point Lookout, Katoomba Falls, and Wentworth Falls.

As the largest township in the Blue Mountains and a busy tourist town, you can find a range of shops and restaurants in Katoomba, especially along its buzzing main street, Katoomba Street. There are also a few interesting antique stores along Katoomba Street, which can be great fun to check out.

With many delicious bakeries and cafes along Katoomba Street, make sure you grab a coffee and a bite in Katoomba before heading into Blue Mountain National Park. You can also find Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI here in Katoomba if you need to stock up on water and snacks before the hike.

Scenic World

Scenic World is not an attraction but a vital transiting hub when visiting the Blue Mountains with a Scenic World Discovery Pass. Although a Scenic World Discovery Pass is optional when visiting the Blue Mountains, I highly recommend it to any first-time visitors.

Scenic World makes a great spot to park your car before exploring the surrounding walking tracks. It is also an excellent place to recharge after a long hike with its well-maintained amenity rooms and cafe . Storage lockers are available at Scenic World, which can be handy if you want to offload some baggage before your hike.

Within Scenic World, visitors can find a couple of lookout platforms overlooking the beautiful Jamison Valley. Make sure you check them out as well when in Scenic World.

Cliff View Lookout

From Scenic World, you will board Australia’s highest cable car, Scenic Skyway , to glide over the stunning Jamison Valley to reach Cliff View Lookout, on the opposite side of Jamison Valley.

Scenic Skyway is a 720 metres journey across Jamison Valley. It provides an unparalleled panoramic view of the lush green Jamison Valley, the sheer cliffs of Mount Solitary, the steep cascading Katoomba Falls, and the Blue Mountains’ most famous landmark, Three Sisters Rock . Hanging at 270 metres in the sky, you can also admire Jamison Valley’s rainforest canopy through Scenic Skyway’s glass cabin floor .

A oneway ride along the Scenic Skyway only takes around 5 minutes , but you can take the ride back and forth as many times throughout the day with your Discovery Pass. The Scenic Skyway is also wheelchair and pram accessible , so it can be an excellent option for everyone to gain a breathtaking view of the Blue Mountains’ best landmarks.

Once you have arrived at Scenic Skyway’s East Station, Cliff View Lookout will be easily located just beneath the station platform. If you are visiting without a Scenic World Discovery Pass, you can walk over to Cliff View Lookout from the Scenic World via Prince Henry Cliff Walk . Along this walk, you can also find some platforms overlooking Jamison Valley (covered later in this article). This walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your fitness level.

Located just below the Skyway station building, Cliff View Lookout offers another peak of the Jamison Valley and a great lookout platform to watch the Scenic Skyway gliding through Jamison Valley. From Cliff Point Lookout west, you can follow Prince Henry Cliff Walk to visit Katoomba Falls up close and back to Scenic World. From Cliff Point Lookout east, you can follow Prince Henry Cliff Walk to visit Echo Point Lookout and beyond.

For this itinerary, we will head east along Prince Henry Cliff Walk from Cliff Point Lookout to check out the views at Lady Darley’s Lookout before arriving at the famous Echo Point Lookout . This walk will likely take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on fitness level.

Echo Point Lookout

Echo Point Lookout is the most famous and popular vantage point in the Blue Mountains. It is not hard to tell why.

From Echo Point Lookout, you will have an unobstructed view of the expansive Jamison Valley and beyond, with the iconic Three Sisters Rock nestled on your left. The views from here are simply awe-inspiring and mesmerising. It is undoubtedly a must-visit spot in the Blue Mountains.

Since Echo Point Lookout is often populated with visitors, it can get crowded during peak visiting hours. However, there is another lookout only a few minutes east, Spooner Lookout . It can be accessed from just behind the visitor centre & can be a great alternative if you are after a more private view.

Echo Point Lookout is the starting point of various walking tracks. You can continue along Prince Henry Cliff Walk to check out Leura Cascade or head down the Giant Stairway for a selection of walking trails within Jamison Valley.

For this itinerary, we will head down to the Giant Stairway to admire the Three Sisters up close and explore the Jamison Valley through its beautiful walking trails . Make sure you use the restrooms at Echo Point Lookout before continuing with this itinerary, as it will be the last one you see before arriving at Katoomba Falls Reserve or Scenic World.

Three Sisters

From Echo Point Lookout, there is a short 10-15 minute track, the Three Sisters Walk , for visitors to get an intimate view of the Three Sisters at Honeymoon Bridge. Although not a flat walk and with some stairs towards the end, the Three Sisters Walk is relatively easy and should be suited to most visitors .

The Three Sisters are three adjacent towering sandstone formations standing above 900 metres tall in the beautiful Jamison Valley. Apart from how spectacular they appear, they are also significant to the local Aboriginal culture.

Honeymoon Bridge is a wooden bridge connecting the end of Three Sisters Walk to the first of the Three Sisters for a unique view of these iconic sandstone formations . However, due to natural erosion and overuse, access to the Three Sisters via Honeymoon Bridge was already closed when I visited in October 2022. With that said, the views of the Three Sisters were still quite impressive, even without getting onto the bridge. I highly suggest you check it out as well.

Giant Stairway

From Honeymoon Bridge, we will continue our descent to the floor of Jamison Valley via the Giant Stairway.

The Giant Stairway is a set of over 900 metal and stone steps carved into a rocky cliff face , connecting the Three Sisters Walk to the floor of Jamison Valley. Along the sharp descent of Giant Stairway, you can also obtain some spectacular views of the Three Sisters and the impressive Jamison Valley .

Although named the Giant Stairway, the steps along this walk are certainly not giant in width. These steps are very narrow, making them very difficult to climb . Since the Giant Stairway was initially completed almost 100 years ago, some stone steps have gotten quite slippery, especially when wet , making them even harder to climb. So make sure you are wearing the correct attire on this day trip.

With that said, the Giant Stairway is easier to climb than many people might have thought . As long as you don’t have many health issues affecting your mobility or exercise tolerance, most visitors should be ok. Just make sure you take as many breaks as needed to recuperate.

For me, a one-way descending walk only took about 25 minutes , with breaks here and there. I did not head back up from the same route, but it definitely will be harder to climb back up to Echo Point from the base of the Giant Stairway. FYI: I’m female with an average fitness level.

Federal Pass

From the base of the Giant Stairway, you can then join the Federal Pass to head back to Scenic World. For many people, this track is also a great way out of the misery of climbing back up via the Giant Stairway .

Federal Pass is a relatively easy track, tucked at the base of the Three Sisters and the rocky cliffs along Jamison Valley. With winding creeks and beautiful waterfalls along the walk, it is a very scenic break after your sharp descent via the Giant Stairway.

Towards the last 10-15 minutes walk along Federal Pass, you will cross a metal bridge located at the base of Katoomba Falls . Since Katoomba Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall, you will not be able to view the entire fall from this angle, but it is still a beautiful place to take a quick break to admire this nature’s masterpiece.

Not long after you have walked past Katoomba Falls, you will come to an intersection where you can decide if you wish to hike back up to Scenic Skyway East Station by walking up Furber Steps or head over to Scenic World Railway Station at the base of Jamison Valley .

For people opposed to climbing up another set of stairs, taking the short walk to Scenic World Railway Station can be your best bet. From Scenic World Railway Station, you can either take the world’s steepest passenger train back to Scenic World or check out the Scenic Walkway before taking a Scenic Cableway back to Scenic World. The walk along Federal Pass between the base of the Giant Stairway and Scenic World Railway Bottom Station only takes less than 1 hour , in my experience, and it should be well-tolerated by most visitors.

If you still have some energy left, I highly suggest taking Furber Steps to head back to Scenic World instead. Furber Steps is a set of 900-plus steps connecting the floor of Jamison Valley to Round Walk and Prince Henry Cliff Walk along the clifftop. Although it will be a heart-pumping climb, you will find many breathtaking vantage points along the walk to view the mesmerising Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley.

For this itinerary, we will take the scenic walk along Furber Steps to Katoomba Cascades and Scenic Skyway East Station before taking the Skyway back to Scenic World.

Katoomba Falls

Katoomba Falls is a picturesque cascading waterfall between Echo Point and Scenic World. It starts from the beautiful Katoomba Cascades before plunging deep into Jamison Valley and becoming a majestic waterfall.

During your walk along Furber Steps , there will be various lookouts to view Katoomba Falls from many angles. Along the clifftop, you can also obtain a bird’s eye view of Katoomba Falls via different lookouts along Round Walk and Prince Henry Cliff Walk . However, due to its long drop, it is impossible to get a full view of Katoomba Falls on land, so be sure to check out the spectacular view of Katoomba Falls during your ride along the Scenic Skyway .

With that said, the various lookouts along the clifftop are still worth checking out for a different perspective of the Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley. Make sure you also check out the beautiful Katoomba Cascades along Prince Henry Cliff Walk .

Scenic Walkway

After returning to Scenic World via Scenic Skyway, we will take full advantage of the Scenic World Discovery Pass to check out the exclusive Scenic Walkway.

Scenic Walkway is an elevated boardwalk in a moss-covered rainforest on the floor of Jamison Valley , between the bottom station of Scenic Railway and Scenic Cableway. Home to a range of ancient native flora and fauna, this flat boardwalk makes a perfect stroll for all ages to enjoy.

Among the different walking tracks on Scenic Walkway, you can spend as little as 10 minutes or up to 1 hour along the Scenic Walkway. Make sure you have used the restrooms at Scenic World before heading down via either Scenic Railway or Scenic Cableway, as there are no restroom facilities within the valley .

Since both Scenic Railway and Scenic Cableway can take you between Scenic World and Scenic Skywalk, it is up to you to decide how to get to and from the Scenic Walkway. I suggest heading down to Scenic Walkway via the Scenic Railway, for some adrenaline kick, before catching Scenic Cableway to ascend back to Scenic World with a thrilling view of the Orphan Rock .

Leura is one of the most beautiful townships in the Blue Mountains. Located just outside the Blue Mountains National Park and adjacent to Katoomba, Leura is a convenient spot to stop by & grab a bite after a long hike within the national park.

Leura is home to a range of delightful cool-climate gardens , which are even more stunning during the Spring months . Its main street, Leura Mall , is super picturesque, with a middle strip lined with beautiful cherry trees, which come to full blooms around mid-September and early October each year.

Along Leura Mall, you can locate a range of popular eateries offering numerous fabulous food options. There are also a few interesting boutique shops along Leura Mall for visitors to enjoy some retail therapy after a long hike.

Not far from Leura Mall, visitors can enjoy some impressive views of Jamison Valley via various lookouts along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. A range of walking tracks is also available near Leura, such as the Pool of Siloam. These lookouts and walking trails will make an excellent itinerary if you have an additional day to explore the Blue Mountains.

Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls is a spectacular 3-tiered waterfall with a drop of 187 metres . It is a short drive from Katoomba & can be easily accessed by bus from Katoomba or Leura.

Right next to the parking lot for Wentworth Falls, visitors can easily find an impressive lookout platform, Jamison Lookout , offering a breathtaking view of the expansive Jamison Valley and Mount Solitary. Just a short 5-minute walk along a flat paved footpath from Jamison Lookout, you will find another superb lookout, Wentworth Falls Lookout , for a magnificent view of Wentworth Falls.

If interested, make sure you follow one of the walking tracks near the car park to check out Wentworth Falls up close.

For the best views, I recommend you check out Fletchers Lookout , a cliff-edge lookout with a good view of Wentworth Falls from above. A return walk between the car park and Fletchers Lookouts takes about 40 minutes on average.

If you prefer a shorter and easier walk, try to check out Princes Rock Lookout instead. With an easy 20-minute return walk from the car park, you can obtain a full view of the spectacular Wentworth Falls at the Princes Rock Lookout.

Longer and more challenging walks are available around Wentworth Falls if you have enough time and are up for the challenge. But you will likely need another day in the Blue Mountains to complete these walks.

Alternative Blue Mountains Day Trip Options

The Blue Mountains is home to many walking tracks and scenic lookouts. Visitors can also find numerous unique restaurants and cafes within the Blue Mountains. Hence, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Blue Mountains.

Another alternative is to join a Guided Blue Mountains Tour , so you can pick the trip you prefer and let someone else organise everything for you. Here is a list of these tours, which you may find interesting.

• For a Guided Blue Mountains Tour to see all its highlights: Blue Mountains Ultimate One-Day Tour .
• Enjoy a Private Guided Tour of the Blue Mountains : Private Blue Mountains and Wildlife Park Tour .
• Explore the Blue Mountains with a Mountain Bike : Blue Labyrinth Tour .
• Enjoy food, wine, and beer tastings in the Blue Mountains: Blue Mountains Local Produce Tasting Experience .
• Learn local Aboriginal culture while exploring the highlights of the Blue Mountains: Blue Mountains Tour from Sydney with an Aboriginal Experience .
• Marvel at the Blue Mountains’ spectacular sky after dark : Stargazing with an Astrophysicist in the Blue Mountains .

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An Easy One Day Blue Mountains Itinerary by Train

This one day Blue Mountains itinerary is designed for travelling to the mountains by train. It will allow you to see the key sites in this world heritage wilderness and sample a couple of short walks. I have been catching the train to visit the Blue Mountains several times a year for longer than I care to admit, so I have had plenty of time to get this itinerary polished 😉

• Tick off all the key sites on this Blue Mountains Day Trip

With beautiful lookouts, natural wonders, and charming village town centres, visiting the Blue Mountains is the perfect tonic when the big city gets too loud and busy.

It’s a beautiful spot for a day trip from Sydney and only two hours from Sydney Central Station, making it a great day out on public transport. 

Dharug and Gundungurra are the Traditional Owners of the land we are visiting today.

If you have more time, we suggest an overnight stay – or a repeat visit – there is so much to see and do in the Blue Mountains you will want to return. 

Tips for planning the perfect Blue Mountains day trip

Getting to the blue mountains by train, how far is it from sydney to katoomba, other sites to consider when you explore the blue mountains, when is the best time to visit the blue mountains.

This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here .

• Visit on a weekday if you can – you will be rewarded with fewer people on the trails. 
• Depart Sydney as early as you can – 6am is great, but even the 7am train is a good bet.
• If you are on a tight budget, then go on Friday, Saturday or Sunday when the ticket will cost you just $8.90 return!
• Try not to plan too much. Two villages and a couple of short walks are enough for a one day visit.
• Consider booking the Blue Mountains Explorer bus, it’s a hop on hop off service with 37 stops and helpful staff to answer all your questions.

This is a day trip that is relatively easy to do by train . The journey only takes about 20 minutes longer than driving, and you get to relax all the way. 

However, if you prefer to drive, go right ahead. Just expect heavy peak hour traffic if you don’t get away early.  

From Sydney to Katoomba is about 120km which takes about 90 minutes by car and two hours by train. 

Our starting point for today is Central Station. The biggest train stations in the country train to the mountains can leave from either the suburban or country terminal, so check the signboard or ask a staff member if you have any trouble locating your train.

You can pay for your ticket using your debit or credit card or even pay wave. It will cost you $9.84 in peak hour and $6.88 off-peak. If you travel on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, tickets are capped at $8.90 return.

Stop 1 – Katoomba Town Centre

Katoomba was initially a mining town, and it was not until the coal seam was stripped bare in the late 1800s that it switched gears and became a popular tourist village. By the 1920s, Sydneysiders were visiting in large numbers. There are many buildings from this time, including the historic Carrington Hotel. If time allows, pop in for a cocktail or beer later in the day before you return to Sydney.

There are also plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants here. You could easily walk around the whole centre within half an hour. That is, if you can resist having a fossick in the antique stores and browsing the outdoor and hiking shops at the far end of the street. 

For now, take a wander along Katoomba Street, buy a coffee and some snacks for your morning tea and perhaps lunch if you would like to picnic. 

Then check out the street art on Beverley Place. It runs parallel to Katoomba Street. Make a left when you get to Aldi, and it’s just a few steps past the corner. 

There are more than a dozen murals by local and visiting artists. There are two of our favourites.

Also, just off Katoomba Street, about midway along, is the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre . Follow the sign to Coles Supermarket, and you will find it. If you are not planning on doing much hiking today, you probably have time to make a brief visit here. It is open from 10am every day except for public holidays and, along with a gallery space, has the best gift shop in the mountains. 

Katoomba’s name comes from the Aboriginal word kedumba, meaning shiny, falling waters or water tumbling over hill.

Once you have seen enough of Katoomba town centre, it’s time to head to our next stop. Make your way to the bus at the top of Lurline Street outside the Clarendon Guest House.

Take the bus to Katoomba Falls Reserve , where you can join a lovely short walk to Katoomba Falls. Once you have seen the falls, continue to Katoomba Cascades, which I think is much prettier. 

Tip : If you want to save time, you could jump in a taxi for this short drive to our first stop today.

Stop 2 – Katoomba Falls and Katoomba Cascades

This popular walk is quite easy and will reward you with spectacular valley views as the path traces the cliff’s edge for most of its 2km length.

Start your walk at the kiosk in the Prince Henry Reserve opposite the Katoomba Caravan park. The first part of the walk takes you on a lookout over Katoomba Falls. This section is now actually lit at night if you are planning to stay in the mountains for a couple of days.

Continue and you will come to Katoomba Cascades. They do not mark these on Google maps but you can find the right on the track here ( map link )

The route is part of the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which continues to Leura, however today we will only complete the section to Echo Point.

You will probably need about an hour to cover the walk if you include all the photo stops you make at the five lookouts along the way.

There are some stairs, but most people with average fitness will find it a breeze. However, if you are not up to it, you can make your way back to the street from the Cascades and take the 686 bus to Echo Point. 

Stop 3 – Echo Point Lookout and the Three Sisters 

The Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point is the site all the tour buses come to see. It’s pretty special too. Along with the lookout are a shop and information centre and public toilets. 

There are a couple of viewing platforms at Echo Point. The main one can get quite busy, so make your way to Spooners Lookout, just a few minutes down the path behind the Visitors Centre, and well worth the detour for a private view. The dramatic views over the valley to Mount Solitary are awe-inspiring.

Why are they called the Three Sisters?

Why are they called the Three Sisters? One legend suggests the rocks where three beautiful women were turned to stone by their father, Tyawan , who was protecting them from danger. He changed himself into a lyrebird but lost his power before he could return to human form, so he remained a lyrebird and they remained rock.  You can read about this and an alternate version here .

Several hiking trails depart from behind the visitors’ centre. Even if you do not plan on hiking, take some time to walk down to Honeymoon Bridge and onto the first of the Three Sisters. 

Making your way down the stairs and onto the bridge of the first of the Three Sisters Katoomba

Continue back to Echo Point Road, where you will find the 695 Bus stop that will take you to our next stop in Leura. 

Detour : If you’re feeling energetic, you can also hike further down to the valley floor. You reach the valley at the bottom of the Three Sisters via the Giant Stairway . This involves walking through bushland and climbing down 998 steps carved into the rock face. You join the Federal Pass hiking trail from the base, which will take you to the Scenic railway, the steepest railway in the world, and back up to the top of the valley and the Scenic World attraction.

On this walk, you would retrace your steps from this morning’s Prince Henry Cliff Walk; however, you are at the bottom of the valley this time. It would be best if you allowed yourself plenty of time to complete this detour. It will probably mean you have less or no time to explore the village of Leura later today. 

Stop 4 – Leuralla Gardens and Olympian Rock Lookout 

Jump off the bus at Leuralla on Olympian Parade. For a change of pace, particularly if the weather is not being kind, I suggest you stay on the bus until you get to Bygone Beauties.

Leuralla is also a fine Art déco home and one of the finest properties open to the public in the Blue Mountains. The Heritage-listed home was inspired by the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and is shown its original state. 

Surrounding the home are 12 hectares of garden, which offer something year-round but are stunning in spring. 

If historic homes are not your cup of tea, head straight across the road and take in the views of the valley as you walk between Elysian Rock Lookout and Olympian Rock.

Lunch – move directly to Stop 6 if you fancy a sit-down lunch.

If you would like a nice cafe lunch and some browsing around the village shops, then head back to Leura Village. There are plenty of dining options to choose from, the Bunker is my favourite.

You can hop on the 696 bus towards Leura Mall or choose to walk, it’s a flat, simple walk to Leura village and will take you past some of the most lovely homes and gardens in the mountains.

Stop 5 – The Pool of Siloam and Lyrebird Dell 

This is my favourite walk in Leura. The path is a bit overgrown in spots, and the walk is a little harder than this morning’s, but it has two rewards that make the effort worthwhile.

You make your way south along Olympian Parade to Gordon Falls Reserve. The track starts from the reserve. Follow the signs to the Pool of Siloam. It’s a very short 450m to reach this peaceful spot. 

The Pool of Siloam in the Blue Mountains National Park is an oasis for wildlife lovers with many species to be spotted, including kookaburras, galahs, cockatoos, and occasionally echidnas.

It’s a further 500m to Lyrebird Dell. On the way to Lyrebird Dell you will pass a cave with some old picnic tables. The cave is a significant site for the traditional owners of this land.

The dell is a small clearing surrounded by dense rainforest that is supposedly home to lyrebirds. These birds were named after their call because they sound like musical instruments. They are timid, so don’t expect any close encounters unless you get lucky. We have yet to spot one here but are assured there is usually a good number.

From Lyrebird Dell back to Leura Station is a 1.7km walk or a 4-minute taxi ride if you are too tired to continue. 

All up, the walk from Leuralla via these two stops and back to Leura Mall is 2.8km, and I estimate it will take you about 1hr and 20 minutes to complete, about 40 minutes walking time and the rest taking it all in! 

Stop 6 – Leura Mall

Leura Mall is the main street in Leura and the location of Leura Train Station, making it a great place to finish up our day in the mountains.

The street itself is gorgeous in spring when the middle strip is lined with trees in bloom. If you want to reward yourself with a drink and some delicious eats before the train ride home, stop at the Bunker, one of the most popular places to eat in Leura. Trains back to Sydney leave hourly at 19 minutes past the hour until at least 8.19 pm.

We have saved all these major sights on our Google maps so you can plan your day in the mountains.

We think a day in the Blue Mountains is the perfect city escape. If you don’t fancy doing it yourself, there are several Blue Mountains tours to choose from that depart both Sydney and Katoomba. 

• Scenic World with the Scenic Skyway is a popular attraction that offers breathtaking views as it glides over the Jamison Valley. 
• Wentworth Falls , which can be reached by bus or taxi from Wentworth Falls station, is also a brilliant choice if you fancy a full day of hiking. 
• Blackheath and Govett Leap Lookout offer panoramic views over the Grose Valley. Take the train from Sydney to Blackheath. You can walk from here or jump on a local bus to the National Park Visitors’ Centre. The sandstone cliffs and views toward Pulpit Rock are incredible.
• Leura Cascades is a lovely picnic spot that has recently partially reopened after flood damage.

A visit to the Blue Mountains is a great choice year-round. From autumn to spring, the crisp mountain air is perfect for hiking and in summer, the temperatures on the valley floor provide respite.

Winter sees several festivals, including the popular Yuletide (Christmas in July) events. This is the perfect time to rug up and take in the crisp mountain air. In summer, the cooler mountain temperatures can provide a respite from the high temperatures in Sydney.

Weekends in spring and autumn get quite busy as Sydneysiders head up to enjoy the changing colours and stunning floral displays, so book early if you plan to stay overnight.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

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Blue Mountains Day Trip Itinerary By Train or Car

by Lisa Bull | Last updated Jan 31, 2024 | Blue Mountains

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

With rushing waterfalls and sandstone cliffs jutting out of an undulating carpet of eucalyptus trees, the stunning Blue Mountains should be on any Sydney visitor’s must-see list. This Blue Mountains day trip itinerary by train includes all the top attractions that you can reach with or without a car.

The journey from Sydney to the Blue Mountains only takes two hours by train. Once you arrive, you can easily travel around by train, bus or on foot.

This blog post will outline an easy-to-follow Blue Mountains day trip itinerary that includes three historic villages, the famous Three Sisters rock formation and a choice of bush walks to admire beautiful forests and waterfalls.

You can also watch my Blue Mountains vlog on YouTube!

1. Katoomba Town

The first stop on this Blue Mountains day trip itinerary is Katoomba, probably the most well-known town in the Blue Mountains. Katoomba is the ideal place to base yourself if you fancy a weekend trip from Sydney .

On arrival, head south from the train station down Katoomba Street and marvel at the little art galleries and olde worlde shops playing music from a bygone era.

If you need a quick pick-me-up, stop for a coffee at the cosy  Yellow Deli Café , and be sure to swing a left down Waratah St to check out the colourful street art along Beverly Place.

2. Echo Point

Save time and hop on the 686 bus on Waratah Street to Echo Point, where you’ll find a visitors’ centre, toilets and a lookout to the very famous Three Sisters rock formation, which according to Aboriginal legend represents three sisters turned to stone.

Note that it gets very busy at Echo Point and tourist buses flock here. So you may find yourself getting jabbed in the eye by selfie sticks and visors!

Don’t expect to enjoy Echo Point in solitude! It’s one of the most well-known Blue Mountains lookouts .

If it’s lunchtime already, consider enjoying a in nearby Lilianfels Park off Echo Point Road and Panorama Drive. You can also take the short walk down to the Three Sisters and stand inside one of them!

3. Leura Village

Hop on the 686 bus at Echo Point back up to Katoomba Station. From there it’s a three-minute train ride to Leura, a gorgeous, quaint little village that I fell instantly in love with, and the second stop on your itinerary.

Take some time to explore the cute, independent boutiques and arty homeware stores along Leura Mall, a refreshing change from the chain stores of Sydney CBD.

My favourite was the colourful and quirky Maharani Boutique on Strand Arcade, where the décor alone is worth having a peek at. If you do want to pick up a cheap lunch try  the famous Bakehouse on Wentworth , which has pies and pasties starting from about $4.50.

4. Wentworth Falls

From Megalong Street in Leura you can jump on the 685 bus for the 12-minute journey to the corner of Fletcher Street and Falls Road in Wentworth Falls.

Walk a few minutes south down Falls Road and you’ll come to Wentworth Falls Picnic Area on Sir H Burrell Drive, another pleasant picnic spot if you haven’t eaten already.

Wentworth Falls is a top location for Blue Mountains walks . Choose a walk of your desired distance from the map on the large information board near Jamison Lookout.

I headed down to the Den Fenella Lookout and had the whole track to myself!

Once you’re all walked out just hop back on the 685 bus on Fletcher Street to Wentworth Falls station, where you’ll find another little village centre along Station St. From here you can catch the train directly back to Sydney and rest your weary feet!

Next, check out my post on the best day trips from Sydney , or browse my recommended holiday destinations in New South Wales . Happy travels!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!

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Blue mountains self-drive itinerary: day trip and overnight trip ideas.

• Post published: 28 April 2019
• Post category: Australia / New South Wales / Oceania/South Pacific

The Blue Mountains is the most popular day trip from Sydney and one of the most visited national parks in New South Wales and Australia . There are many things to do in the national park. Hence, it can be overwhelming to choose where to stop when planning a Blue Mountains self-drive itinerary. I went to the Blue Mountains many times for a day trip or an overnight trip. I’ve combined my experiences in this article to help you plan your Blue Mountains self-drive itinerary.

The wilderness as far as you can see is the most impressive thing in the Blue Mountains. Imagine that the UNESCO World Heritage site is about the size of Belgium!

These self-drive itinerary ideas will bring you to lookouts where you’ll get a peek at the immensity of the park. There are many hiking opportunities for active travellers. And for the adventurers, I highly recommend canyoning in the Blue Mountains for a day. It’s the best way to get into the wild feelings.

The numbers next to the names indicate the location on the map at the end of the article.

Things to pack for your Blue Mountains self-drive itinerary

• Warm jacket
• Rain and wind jacket
• Change of clothes
• Enclosed walking shoes
• Hat and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Lunch and snacks. There are restaurants and supermarkets in the Blue Mountains but you may want to avoid shopping during your limited time.

Blue Mountains self-drive itinerary for a day trip around the best lookouts

Wentworth falls.

You should leave Sydney early to avoid the potential crowd at Wentworth Falls (1). It takes about 1.5 hours to get there .

Walking from the car park to the top of Wentworth Falls (and a bit further to Rocket Point lookout) then back to the car park should take you about one hour . It will depend on how fast you are climbing up the stairs. I did it wearing a walking boot so, if you take your time, you can do this walk even if you aren’t a fit hiker.

The Blackheath area is great to visit during peak hours to avoid the crowd at the other spots. Although it’s spectacular, it’s a lot less famous. You could easily spend the full day exploring the Blackheath area. That’s why some research is needed to select what you want to do there.

My favourite lookout in this area is Pulpit Rock (2), about half an hour drive from Wentworth Falls. The access is via an unsealed road, and there is no proper car park. Hence, it’s surprising to find an incredibly well-built lookout in the heart of what feels like a never-ending wilderness. Allow around 45 minutes to explore Pulpit Rock. The walk isn’t long, but you will want to take breaks to enjoy the view and take a break from the stairs.

You can directly drive to Govetts Leap lookout (3) in only 15 minutes to get additional views of the Hooker Valley. If you feel like hiking, the 7-kilometre walk to Govetts Leap is lovely, with the right level of challenge to most people’s tastes ( grade 3 ). During that hike, you stay at the top of the cliffs and avoid the hundreds of stairs that a few of the Blue Mountains hikes involve . It took us about three hours one way . With only one car, you’ll have to come back to where you started the walk. But if you’re lucky and travelling as a group with a couple of vehicles, you can leave the second one at Govetts Leap lookout to save walking back.

I also like the short walk from Govetts Leap to Bridals Veils/Barrow lookout (4). This time, it’s almost all about climbing stairs. But you’re rewarded with a view of the valley from a different angle. I particularly like the walls full of moss. Allow around half an hour to complete this one (return).

Three Sisters

The Three Sisters (5) is the most known place in the Blue Mountains and on many Australia’s bucket lists . So it’s not surprising that all tours stop at this iconic landmark. By doing your own self-driving itinerary in the Blue Mountains, you get a chance to check it outside the peak hours.

Allow about half an hour to drive from Blackheath to the Three Sisters in Katoomba , as you may have traffic on the way and look for a parking spot.

It only takes five minutes to have a look at the Three Sisters from the Echo Point lookout (6). But there are many things to do nearby that you may be interested in so you could easily spend half the day there. I recommend planning something in between.

Those who don’t want to hike may be interested in checking out Scenic World * (7) for a different way to explore the immensity of the Blue Mountains.

I recommend going to Eagle Hawk Lookout (8) to admire the Three Sisters in calm settings. At the end of the day, tours go back to Sydney so it’s a good time to check out the famous Echo Point lookout and the nearby short and easy walks to get even closer to the Three Sisters: Spooners lookout (9) and Honeymoon Bridge (10). There will be fewer people at the end of the day.

Where to stay overnight in the Blue Mountains?

If you are on a budget , camping is the cheapest option to stay overnight in the Blue Mountains. With just a tent, we could stay at Blackheath Glen Reserve for free and cook our dinner with the fire pit. However, you’ll have to check if a fire ban applies during your visit, especially in summer. I recommend downloading an app on your smartphone to view the free campgrounds near your itinerary.

Responsible Travel Tip : Even if you have a low budget, make sure you spend money in the destination to support local businesses. Free hiking and free camping aren’t the best for the local economy, so try to at least buy groceries at, for example, the local butcher or bakery.

If you don’t want to camp , you’ll find plenty of accommodations in Katoomba * and also a good selection in Blackheath *. Katoomba is closer to the main attractions, but I prefer Blackheath as it feels quieter.

Suggestions for a two-day self-drive itinerary

Morning walks.

On the second day, I recommend starting with a short walk.

Leura Cascades (11) near Katoomba can be a nice option as it’s relaxing and even refreshing on a hot day. You’ll be in the forest which will feel different to the previous day where most of the itinerary was at the top of the cliffs. It only takes about half an hour to walk the circuit, so you’ll have plenty of time to visit another place after.

Your second option could be to check out other lookouts in the Blackheath region, such as the Wind Eroded Cave (12) and Anvil Rock (13). They both take only about 15 minutes return or do a walk you didn’t have time to do the day before.

Afternoon at Jenolan Caves

In the afternoon, drive to Jenolan Caves for about 1.5 hours . There, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the world’s oldest caves on Earth. Some caves are easy to access and others are more challenging and adventurous. Jenolan Caves (14) has facilities for visitors and provides guided tours of the caves, so you’ll find all the information you need when you arrive.

Keep your eyes open on the way: you may spot kangaroos, rock wallabies and many endemic birds such as the black cockatoos and the lyrebird.

Time your visit so you can still be there at sunset . That’s when the platypus that lives in the nearby Blue Lake (15) comes out for hunting. It’s one of the best opportunities ever to see a platypus in the wild , an iconic Australian animal . Plus, the Blue Lake does have a lovely blue colour – so it’s a lovely easy walk anyway.

If you don’t feel like driving back at night on the winding roads, you can spend the night at the Jenolan Caves House *.

Have you ever been to the Blue Mountains? What did you put on your itinerary? Share your experience in the comments below!

Map of this blue mountains self-drive itinerary.

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Ultimate Weekend Blue Mountains Itinerary From Sydney

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Getting out of the city is a must for any visit to Sydney. A weekend Blue Mountains trip provides incredible scenery, fresh air, cosy villages andwhen well-deserved quality time with your loved ones (which totally includes yourself by the way!). In this guide, I’m going to share my tried-and-tested 2 day Blue Mountains itinerary.

During our Blue Mountains weekend away from Sydney, we travelled up to Katoomba on Friday night and returned on Sunday after a leisurely brunch. We didn’t begin our Blue Mountains itinerary ’til midday on Saturday so you could travel up early in the morning and head back to Sydney after you’ve finished your hike. It would be a long day but easily doable. For a day trip , follow my Saturday itinerary . For a long weekend in the Blue Mountains, do as I did (this is best as it includes my Blue Mountains eating guide!)

Getting to the Blue Mountains

Public transport: Catch a train from Sydney Central Station to Katoomba, a small town in the heart of the Blue Mountains. I couldn’t believe how cheap it was compared to extortionate English trains – $6.69 (£3.70!) each way with an Opal Card.

Best Blue Mountains day tours from Sydney:

• Small group, all-inclusive tour (scenic world cableway, lunch and boat cruise), $270
• Nature & wildlife tour with guided bushwalk ($155)
• Afternoon sunset tour with guided bushwalk ($145)
• Blue Mountains glow worm adventure by night ($175)

Where to stay during a weekend away in the Blue Mountains

If your Blue Mountains itinerary includes an overnight stay, there are lots of options in Katoo mba, ranging from hotel to hostels. Airbnb – we stayed in a cosy Airbnb. There are lots of these on offer in the Blue Mountains. Hostels – there are a few options in Katoomba. Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel and Blue Mountains YHA are both conveniently located in town with good reviews. These are both around AUD$18 a night. Hotels – if you want to treat yourself after a day hiking, check out La Maison Boutique Hotel complete with a hot tub, jacuzzi and comfy rooms with TV & DVD players. For a cosy home rather than a hotel, check out Shelton-Lea Bed & Breakfast for period features and an open fire.

Best season for a weekend in the Blue Mountains

If you’re wondering when to time your weekend in the Blue Mountains, this is a run down of the weather for each season: September to November: This season is spring and comfortable for trekking. Bring a sweater or light jacket for mornings and evenings. December to February: This is summer and a good time for your Blue Mountains itinerary. Average temperatures are 26-30 degrees. It’s best to book accommodation ahead as it can be busy. March to May: It starts to get very cooler in the Blue Mountains with some rain. But it’s a good time for visiting as accommodation prices drop. June to August: This is winter and sees temperatures as low as 10 degrees with rain and occasional snow. If you wrap up warm, you can take advantage of cheaper accommodation and have viewpoints to yourself.

Blue Mountains weekend itinerary

You could easily spend a whole week in the Blue Mountains: there are so many hikes, from short walks to lengthy woodland treks. Since this Blue Mountains itineray is for 2 days, I’ll just share a few nearby Katoomba. We ended up going to the touristy viewpoints on Saturday morning and doing a proper hike in the afternoon. This was a good way to see the Blue Mountains in my opinion: even though our first stops were busy, you wouldn’t want to miss the most iconic views they offer.

Saturday itinerary for the Blue Mountains

For visiting the Blue Mountains on a budget and paying nada for tours and guides, follow the below Blue Mountains itinerary. We travelled up Friday night so this itinerary starts bright and early Saturday morning!

Start at Echo Point

From Katoomba town, you can easily walk over to the start point of the Blue Mountains in 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a local bus, or park at the carpark. Just set Echo Point into Google Maps or your satnav. Not far from Echo Point carpark is Echo Falls Plaza where you can use the bathroom and grab a coffee before your hike. The cafe terrace is absolutely stunning with rolling views over the forest canopy. If visiting the Blue Mountains on a budget you could obviously consider not buying $5 coffee and making your own… nah!

As it turned out, coffee was the highlight because Echo Point itself was not what I expected. Unless you visit super early, it’s totally packed out with bus loads of visitors and you can barely move for selfie sticks. Best continue off the beaten track…

Spooners Lookout

The next stop on our Blue Mountains itinerary was Spooners Lookout. While there are few viewpoints near Katoomba that you’ll have totally to yourself, it’s easy to escape the crowds as you move away from the tour bus stops. Spooners Lookout may only be a five-minute walk away but it was much less crowded. We laughed at the view of Echo Point direc tly across from us!

Now you see why we ditched it, right?!

Honeymoon Point / Three Sisters Lookout

When you Google the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters will be the first image you see. These unusual rock formations are named after a Dreamtime legend of three sisters named Meehni, Wimlah and Gunnedoo. In the legend, the young girls fell in love with men from another tribe but the relationships were expressly forbidden. To protect the sisters from harm, they were turned to stone! While I feel like being turned to stone would be more permanent than having a bad boyfriend, I can’t deny these structures are stunning! You see them best from Echo Point but it’s also a good idea to climb up to them (via the track) and admire the beautiful valley views.

A small bridge takes you out to Honeymoon Point , an enclave that goes inside one of the Three Sisters. This is a pretty spot for photos.

Lady Darley Lookout

After we’d seen the stops around Echo Point, we continued on with our Saturday adventures. We headed back to Echo Point Lookout and took the downhill track to the rest of the Blue Mountain’s viewpoints and attractions.

By this point, we were seeing stunning views from every angle but one spot that stood out was Lady Darley Lookout . It offers some of the best panoramic views for miles around! Definitely a highlight of my Blue Mountains weekend.

Katoomba Cascades

Katoomba Cascades are a popular place to add to any Blue Mountain itinerary. I feel like they’d be a peaceful spot if it weren’t for the crowds… Visit early or late and you might have them to yourself!

Katoomba Falls

Not far from Katoomba Cascades are Katoomba Falls which are bigger and more impressive. We viewed them in all their glory from Queen Victoria Lookout but you can actually climb onto them (though I’m not sure you’re meant to) like these people in this photo have done.

Furber Steps

Next, we headed away from the cascades and falls and headed down the Furber Steps which lead you into the gorgeous Aussie woodland. The best bit is that if you’re feeling lazy you don’t have to climb back up them because there’s a cable car at the bottom!

Queen Victoria Lookout

One of my favourite stops along the Furber Steps was Queen Victoria Lookout . There are actually a few places with this name in the Blue Mountains but the right one is pinned above. From here, you get one of the best views of Katoomba Falls.

Federal Pass Walking Track (2 hours and lots of stairs!)

If travelling the Blue Mountains on a budget, you have a decision to make here. After 20 minutes downhill on the Furber Steps you’ll reach the Blue Mountains Cable Car Lower Station. Choose either:

• Catch the cable car back up the hill (not free option)
• Continue on the Federal Pass Walking Track linking back up to the Three Sisters / Honeymoon Lookout via the Giant Stairway (free option!)

We did the latter which was a solid workout and one of the only times we got off-the-beaten-track and ditched the crowds. I’d recommend it if you can handle 30+ minutes of stairs towards the end.

The Giant Stairway

I groaned as we started the Giant Stairway as I know it would be tough. I can’t lie, it really got my heart rate up and I had to stop a few times, but it actually wasn’t terrible. The views as we got higher made it completely worthwhile!

The Giant Stairway ends back at the Three Sisters Lookout meaning we’d come full circle. We headed back to Echo Falls Plaza and had a well-deserved cider where we’d had coffee several hours before.

Saturday night dinner – The Station Bar & Woodfired Pizza

After an afternoon cider, we indulged with these amazing pizzas at The Station Bar + Woodfired Pizza . There are a ridiculous amount of topping options from veggie and meat classics to chicken tikka, seafood and kangaroo. Most are around $20, not bad!

Blue Mountains weekend itinerary – Sunday

While there are several other hikes in the Blue Mountains you can go on, we decided to have a leisurely day after our mammoth hike the day before. Even though there’s not loads to do if you’re based in Katoomba, here are a few worthwhile activities for Sunday in the Blue Mountains…

Sunday breakfast – Cafe Pomegranate

No weekend in the Blue Mountains would be complete without a tasty brunch! For such a small town, there’s a high ratio of brunch cafes in Katoomba. None of the shops seem particularly functional or useful – they’re all for the constant flow of hiked-out tourists and weekend visitors. No complaints from me! While there are plenty of cosy cafes, you can’t do better than Cafe Pomegranate . They serve all your egg and avo classics plus some fancy cereals scattered with edible flowers. The Aussies don’t do brunch by halves as I was quickly finding out.

Katoomba’s Street Art Walk

Add Katoomba’s Street Art Walk to your itinerary for the Blue Mountains! It’s not what people typically come to the Blue Mountains for but I absolutely loved it. Find it beside Aldi . It’s not very big so you’ll only need 15 minutes to look around and snap some photos.

Thanks for reading my weekend Blue Mountains itinerary

Check out my other Sydney posts:

• The Rose Bay to Watson’s Bay walk
• The Sydney brunch and coffee guide
• 9 free things to do in Sydney

Ps. Liked this weekend Blue Mountains itinerary for 2 days? Pin it for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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A Sydney to Blue Mountains Day Trip guide: unveiling Australia’s most beautiful spots

If you are planning a trip to Australia’s East Coast, we highly recommend doing a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip. It’s perfect if you are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Plus you get the chance to see some of the natural beauty Australia is famed for.

In this guide we go through absolutely everything you need to know including, how to get to the Blue Mountains, what to do on your Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney, and much more.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Some Background

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Before we start our Blue Mountains itinerary here is a little bit of background on both Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

A lot of people mistake Sydney for being the capital of Australia, which is incorrect. It is one of the biggest cities in Australia, and the capital of New South Wales however.

Sydney is home to over 5 million people, and is a cultural melting pot with over 250 languages being spoken in the city.

Sydney is famous for it’s New Years fireworks display, as it is one of the first places to ring in the New Year. It’s also known for its beaches, laid back lifestyle, and a pretty famous bridge and opera house!

Wondering is Sydney worth visiting ? Here is a handy guide.

BLUE MOUNTAINS

Located 60km west of Sydney and known for it’s dramatic landscapes, historic villages, and bushland, is the region known as the Blue Mountains. It’s the perfect spot to go if you are trying to get away from the chaos of the city.

In fact a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney is a must particularly if you want to explore some of the rugged natural beauty of Australia.

There is over 140 kms of track, meaning that you can do some pretty spectacular hikes. There are also 400 species of animal living in the region, and yes before you ask this does include snakes. Although spotting one is pretty rare.

You might also be wondering why they are called the Blue Mountains. Australia has this habit of naming things after what people think they look like. For example the Glasshouse Mountains in Queenslands Sunshine Coast are a prime example.

The Blue Mountains essentially got their name, because there is a very distinctive blue haze that surrounds them. And that haze is caused by the Eucalyptus trees. It’s something to do with the oil in the trees which gives off a blue colouring when it dissipates into the air.

Of course I also think it is important to mention that the area around the Blue Mountains was referred to as Colomatta by the local Aboriginal people.

There are several options for getting from Sydney to the Blue Mountains, and it all depends on what you want to do when you get there. We are going to go through each option, along with the pros and cons. The three main options are:

• renting a car
• using public transport
• going via an organised tour

It will take you about an hour and a half to drive from Sydney to the Blue Mountains. This is a relatively straight forward drive, and you will spend most of it on the motorway.

To avoid a lot of the traffic you should drive to the Blue Mountains as early as possible. You should also plan your drive back to Sydney before rush hour traffic.

• You can do things at your own pace
• If you want to stay longer you can
• You see exactly what you want to see
• You don’t have to deal with those people who are always late back to the bus on tours!
• Parking can be a pain
• Car rentals can be expensive
• It can be frustrating if you aren’t used to driving on the left hand side of the road
• Whilst the roads are decent, they can be winding in parts
• It’s easy to be overwhelmed with so much to see and do
• Traffic can be a nightmare particularly on the weekend
• You can get stuck in pretty bad traffic driving back into Sydney in the evening.

If you are wanting to use public transport on your Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip, then the train will be your best option. You can get a train from Sydney Central Staton, and this will take you approximately 2 hours to reach the Blue Mountains.

The train trip is pretty standard, until you reach the lower mountains where you do get some pretty amazing views. You will need to get off at Katoomba Station and from here there a few transport options to get around the Blue Mountains.

One option is the Hop On Hop Off Bus. There are a few different ticket options, but if you book online in advance you can get some good deals.

There are also much cheaper public transport options but you do need to be a bit more organised with this and work out which bus will take you where.

• Do things at your own pace
• Relax on the train and avoid the rush hour traffic
• See the sights you want to see
• Listen to the guided commentary on the hop on hop off bus.
• You will need to wait around for buses/ transport
• You need to plan your itinerary and stops in advance
• Not as comfortable as driving yourself
• It’s a bit more effort than a guided tour.

There are several options for organised tours to create the perfect Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney. Depending on what you go for you can do hikes, sunset tours, visit Scenic World, and much more.

These tours usually collect you from your hotel in Sydney, in a small minivan, and take you to a number of spots around the Blue Mountains. You also have the option to get the ferry back to Sydney so that you avoid the peak hour traffic.

• Hotel pickup
• Knowledgable guide
• You get taken to the most scenic spots
• You can just sit back and relax
• Comfortable air conditioned coach.
• Tours can be expensive
• You have limited time in each place you visit
• You have the spend the day with other people on your tour

If you are wondering what the best option for a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip is, we highly recommend an organised tour. Yes it is slightly more expensive than using public transport, but you can sit back, relax, and let someone take you around. The guides are also really knowledgable, and they do this tour almost every day, so they know the good spots to get photos, and how to get you through Scenic World quickly!

There is so much to see and do when you visit the Blue Mountains. Here are some of the highlights that you may want to consider before visiting. If you like the sound of any of this and you are wanting to do an organised tour there are a lot of different tour options so hopefully you will find one perfect for you.

The Three Sisters

One of the most famous rock formations in the Blue Mountains are the Three Sisters. There is a fantastic viewing point at Echo Point where you can snap some really good photos. Although it does get pretty crowded especially in the afternoons, as this is one of the main stops on a lot of Sydney to Blue Mountains day trips.

The reason for the name, is because according to a Dreamtime legend, the rocks represent three sisters who were turned into stone. There are a few stories as to the reason this happened, one of which is to do with the sisters falling in love with three brothers in a neighbouring tribe. As this was forbidden under tribal law, a war broke out and the sisters were turned to stone for their own safety.

Cahill’s Lookout

Cahill’s Lookout in Katoomba, is a popular sunset spot in the Blue Mountains. It overlooks the Megalong Valley is not only a great lookout spot, but a much quieter one where you can avoid the crowds.

There is a paved path that leads you to the lookout, and this is about 500 metres long. It’s a relatively easy path to walk, although it isn’t shaded, so make sure you have a hat and suncream to protect you from the sun.

Wentworth Falls

One of the most popular waterfalls to visit in the Blue Mountains has to be Wentworth Falls. If you are getting a train from Sydney you can get off at Wentworth Falls Station. From here there is a path called Darwins walk, which is a pretty easy walk. Or at least easy for the Blue Mountains. The walk takes about 2 hours, and will get you right to the falls. You can swim at the falls, and there are also some food options.

If you prefer the guided tour route there are tours that specifically take you to the falls like the ones below.

Scenic World

One of the highlights when doing a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip is visiting Scenic World . It’s essentially a man made attraction that includes a scenic railway, skyway, and cableway, that help you see more of the natural beauty in the area.

It’s is a very popular attraction, particularly on weekends, and school holidays, so our best advice is to get in early. It’s also worth booking your ticket in advance.

If you do an organised tour they get you on the rides pretty quickly, which is great when you are only doing a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip.

As mentioned above there are three main attractions and we will go into a bit of detail on each one below.

SCENIC SKYWAY

The Skyway is your opportunity to essentially glide between two cliffs, and see the Blue Mountains like you have never seen them before.

The Skyway is suspended 270m in the air, and you get the most incredible views of the top of the rainforest. There is a glass floor that you can look through and admire the views. But you can also sit down if it get a bit much.

The highlight is that you get to see Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, and the Jamison Valley, depending on which side of the car you stand on.

It takes you 720m across the Jamison Valley, and carries 84 passengers every 10 minutes.

This isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I assure the views are incredible. It’s also a very smooth ride, so you don’t feel like you are suspended high in the air.

SCENIC RAILWAY

This was one of my favourites when visiting Scenic World. The Scenic Railway is a one of a kind experience where you ride on a 52° incline for 310 metres, eventually finding yourself on the floor of the Jamison Valley.

Apparently it is also the steepest railway in the world. It was originally designed in the late 19th Century to transport coal from the Katoomba coal mine to the valley floor. But these days it’s a tourist attraction taking you to the bottom of the Jamison Valley where you can explore the forest floor via the Scenic Walkway.

Despite the large incline, the railway doesn’t go fast, so it’s suitable for most passengers.

SCENIC CABLEWAY

The final attraction at Scenic World is the Cableway. The cableway travels 510 metres into the Jamison Valley, for some incredible views of the Three Sisters, Orphan Rock, and Mt Solitary. It’s a slow and gentle ride, and is the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.

Katoomba Town Centre

Katoomba is a great historical town that you should try and visit Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip. It originated in the 1900s as a mountain resort that was ideal for people from Sydney to come to relax and enjoy a cooler climate.

It’s got a very art deco kind of look, and feels incredibly far removed from the business of Sydney which is only an hour or so drive away.

You don’t get tons of tourists here, but it is worth a visit, and there are some pretty cool bars and restaurants in the area.

Leura Village

Leura is a popular village close to Katoomba. It’s very quaint and small with manicured gardens, quirky shops, and some very relaxed cafes and restaurants. You do get a few tours that stop here at lunch, as their is a decent choice when it comes to food. They also have a very popular and delicious ice cream shop. Or if you want a real Aussie treat, head to a bakery (there is one just further up from the ice cream shop) and grab a Lamington.

Do a Bushwalk

There are so many fantastic places you can visit in the Blue Mountains if you love hiking. The Grand Canyon at Blackheath is a popular hiking trail. It’s around 6.5km long and kind of gives off Jurassic Park vibes, as you walk between the canyons and see the ferns and moss hanging over the rocks.

There are so many walks you can do, but the main thing is that you always check the weather conditions, and route before embarking on a long walk. Make sure you dress appropriately too.

Here is a sample Blue Mountains day trip itinerary. This is based off a tour that we booked, that was really enjoyable. You can book the tour here if you wish . Our guide Scotty was incredible. He was very knowledgeable and had some fantastic stories to share. As part of our tour we got to skip the rush hour traffic and got a ferry back into Circular Quay.

Start your day in the Blue Mountains with a visit to Echo Point to checkout the Three Sisters. There are some great hikes around here that you can do, or you can also explore the town of Katoomba if you have time.

Afterwards head to Scenic World and spend a good few hours enjoying the attractions, and doing the Scenic Walk.

Visit Leura for a late lunch, but on the way we recommend stopping at Cahill’s Lookout to get a fantastic view of the Megalong Valley.

Our tour ended up taking us to Sydney Zoo after this before boarding a ferry back into Circular Quay. If you are doing your own trip though you could add in a trip to Wentworth Falls, before making your way back to Sydney.

If you are looking for food and drink to add to your Blue Mountains day trip itinerary, we recommend visiting some of the towns in the area like Katoomba, and Leura.

Katoomba is where you will have more choice with restaurants like Echoes Restaurant & Bar, that serve great food with incredible views. For something a little cheaper you have Basil Nut, that serves some cheap and cheerful Asian street food.

There is also a really cool bar in Katoomba called the Bootlegger Bar. They do American style food, like pulled pork, ribs, and burgers. Our favourite bit though is the whisky tasting you can also do.

Leura is another good choice for food and drink. In fact a lot of organised tours will stop here for lunch. There are som fantastic places to eat for a more relaxed and casual lunch including, Lily’s Pad for some of the best coffee in town, and the Red Door Cafe.

There is also Café Leura which is a modern Australian Cafe Restaurant serving things like burgers, gyros, and much more.

How much money you spend on your Blue Mountains day trip will of course depend on what you plan to do, and see when you get there. With so many different travel options it’s hard to judge exactly how much it will cost you to plan a full Blue Mountains day trip itinerary.

Instead here are some prices to keep in mind if you do decide to visit.

If you are trying to decide the best time of year to plan your Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip here are some tips.

The good news is, you can visit the Blue Mountains year round. Summer is a popular time to visit as this coincides with school/Christmas Holidays, so you will see lots of families at this time of year.

Summer is very hot, and a lot warmer than Sydney itself so be prepared. You are looking at temperatures of 29 °C or 84 F during the summer months. That being said it can be a lot warmer. We visited in December and it was about 34°C (93F). This was fine on the floor of the forrest as it is a lot cooler and shadier, but everywhere else it was hot!

Winter is far more mild averaging at about 16°C or 60F. You definitely need to bring a light jacket with you as it is a lot cooler particularly in the forrest floor.

A Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip does give you a decent amount of time to explore the region. You want to make sure that you leave early in the morning, so that you have a full day to spend at the Blue Mountains.

A day will allow you to see the main sights, get some great photos, and explore a town or two. For a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip you are probably best booking an organised tour to make the most of your time in the area.

If you want to do some hiking, or delve further into the area you probably need at least 2 days here. In which case you can either use public transport, or rent a car.

If you are planning a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney with kids you are probably best off renting a car and doing the trip on your own terms. This will mean that you get way more time at places like Scenic World, which kids will absolutely love. There are also some really fun family hikes you can do, which are best done at your own pace.

If you are planning a Blue Mountains day trip itinerary as part of a couple, then you can either rent a car and arrange your own trip, or you can book a guided tour. If you do decide to go down the route of renting your own car, you should consider spending the night somewhere like Katoomba.

If you are doing a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney solo, then we highly recommend you do this as part of a guided tour. That way you can spend time with like minded travellers, but you also don’t have to worry about planning an itinerary, or navigating your way through the area.

Here are some must haves for a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney.

• Comfortable and ideally waterproof walking shoes
• Sun protection
• A reusable drink bottle – there are lots of places you can fill up your bottle for free
• Portable phone charger
• A light jacket even in the summer as it can get cool
• Loose fitting clothes to keep cool in summer
• Layers that you can remove particularly in winter months
• A light rain jacket for the winter months.

Here are some final tips for planning your Blue Mountains day trip itinerary.

• Plan what you want to see in advance and how you will get there
• If you are booking a tour, book this in advance particularly in summer to avoid missing out
• Wear weather appropriate clothing
• Don’t do a walk alone, or at least tell someone where and when you are going
• Weekdays are much quieter so if you want to avoid the crowds plan accordingly.

If you get the chance to do a Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip you really should take it. A lot of people who visit Sydney only really stick to the city itself. But when you have so much natural beauty so close you need to take advantage of it.

Hopefully this guide has given you some inspiration to plan your own Sydney to Blue Mountains day trip itinerary. And if you found it useful make sure you pin it for later.

If you are still undecided on your travel destination in Australia, here is a guide to Brisbane vs Sydney that you might find useful.

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Perfect Blue Mountains Itinerary: 2 Days in Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains National Park is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Australia.

Not only is it home to incredible hiking trails and lookout points, but it’s also an adventure lover’s playground with rock climbing, abseiling, and canyoning activities available.

And while you won’t run short of things to do, planning a Blue Mountains itinerary is rather challenging as the options can be overwhelming.

I spent hours planning my trip, and this guide details the highlights and top activities that need to be included in your Blue Mountains weekend getaway from Sydney!

It’s the perfect travel guide for adventure travelers and those outdoorsy souls looking to enjoy a bit of nature and unspoiled scenery.

Torn Tackies contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

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How many days in Blue Mountains

You won’t run short of things to do in Blue Mountains! It’s a spectacular place to explore, and avid bushwalkers could spend a week or more here.

Personally, I recommend a 2 day Blue Mountains itinerary. This is enough time to see the main attractions and do a bush walk or two.

If you’re traveling from Sydney, you can easily plan a weekend getaway, as it’s only a short drive from the city.

Top tip: If you’re planning a Blue Mountains day trip, stick to day 1 of this itinerary, which includes the main attractions and things to do.

How to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

The easiest way to get to the Blue Mountains is by train. I rented a car for the weekend, and if possible, this is the best option for exploring the region.

Public Transport: Sydney Central Station to Katoomba (2 hours)

For most travelers and backpackers, the train is the best way to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney. It’s super affordable and costs only $8 for the one-way trip.

The train leaves from Central Station in Sydney and is a short 2-hour train ride to Katoomba in the Blue Mountains.

The only downside of taking the train is that you’ll have limited transport during the rest of your Blue Mountains itinerary.

Self-drive or car rental (1.5 hours)

There’s no doubt that visiting the Blue Mountains with a car is the most convenient option. If you’re traveling on a busy weekend or you’re looking to go hiking off the beaten track, you’re going to want the flexibility of having your own vehicle.

Uber Car Share is the go-to car rental app for those looking to rent a car for their weekend getaway in the Blue Mountains. It’s the Airbnb of car rentals, and you can choose a pick-up point in your preferred location. All vehicles are priced differently, so it’s great for all budgets.

The entire process is done through the app, and you don’t even need an Australian driver’s license.

Blue Mountains itinerary: Day 1

If you’re planning a Blue Mountains weekend getaway, try to leave Sydney on Friday night or as early as possible on Saturday morning so that you have 2 full days to explore.

Go for a hike: The best thing to do in the Blue Mountains

There are so many hikes around the Blue Mountains National Park – from short leisurely strolls to lengthy bushwalks and even multi-day trails.

To start, head to Katoomba and do the Federal Pass hiking trail . I did a combination of the Federal Pass hiking trail and Prince Henry Cliff Walk. Here’s a map of the trail .

Federal Pass Hiking Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time needed: 4 hours
• Trailhead: Katoomba ( here )

This hike passes all the iconic viewpoints, including Queen Victoria Lookout, Echo Point, and The Three Sisters.

If you’re looking for something more relaxed, then the Prince Henry Cliff Walk is the one for you. It also passes all these sites.

You could drive to these lookout points, but the walk through the forest is spectacular, and you’re surrounded by lush trees, tropical birds, and flowing waterfalls.

What to expect on the Federal Pass Hiking Trail

The Federal Pass Hiking Trail starts at the corner of Cliff Drive and Merriwa Street in Katoomba ( Location here ). It ends at Furber Steps near Katoomba Falls – or the section I did, at least !

It takes about 4 hours, depending on your walking pace, and it’s a rather challenging hike (but manageable for those with reasonable fitness.)

There are a lot of stairs that go deep into the valley, and of course, what comes down must go up!

Most of the trail is through the dense forest, where you’ll pass several towering waterfalls. There is a good variety in the terrain, with many places along the route where you can stop for a break.

The landscape is very different from the hike you’ll do on day 2 of this Blue Mountains itinerary, which is mostly through canyons and open spaces.

Katoomba Falls, Echo Point, and The Three Sisters

Toward the end of the Federal Pass track, you’ll reach the Furber Steps.

From here, it’s an uphill climb, but one that offers rolling views of the dense forest canopy.

Queen Victoria Lookout: On your way up, you’ll pass the Queen Victoria Lookout Point, which is one of the best places to see the Three Sisters, as well as Katoomba Falls.

Cliff View and Lady Darley’s Lookout: After connecting with the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, you’ll reach more gorgeous lookout points, the main ones being Cliff View Lookout and Lady Darley’s Lookout.

The blue hues and the seemingly endless trees in the distance make for quite the sight!

Three Sisters and Echo Point Lookout

Most of the viewpoints up until now offer striking panoramic views of the lush valley in the distance.

But Echo Point is arguably the most popular spot, especially for Instagrammers looking for that picture with the Three Sisters as the backdrop.

The Three Sisters are iconic of the Blue Mountains! They’re a trio of rock formations rising from the Jamison Valley and were named after a legend.

The story goes something like this – Three sisters supposedly fell in love with three young men from another tribe. This was extremely forbidden, and so to protect the sisters from these men, a sorcerer turned them into stone.

Unfortunately, the sorcerer died before undoing his spell, leaving the sisters trapped in stone for the rest of eternity!

The rocky outcrops, dubbed The Three Sisters, are now one of the biggest attractions in the Blue Mountains!

Thousands of people head to Echo Point, which offers some of the best views of the Three Sisters. But it’s busy and flows from a big car park with tourist buses.

Personally, this wasn’t my favorite place when compared to all the others I’d seen whilst getting here, so be sure to walk around a bit and find those less crowded viewpoints.

Lunch or a drink at The Lookout Echo Point

If you haven’t had anything to snack on yet, you can treat yourself to a meal at The Lookout Echo Point, which is conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from Echo Point and the bus stop.

There are several take-away restaurants here – I arrived and went straight to the bar. There’s nothing quite like the taste of an ice-cold beer after a long and tiring hike.

After rewarding yourself with a good meal, you’ll need to get back to your car, which is at Cliff Drive.

You can either walk the 2 km stretch along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, or you can hop on the public bus, which will drop you off 500 m from where you parked your car.

Watch the Sunset: The highlight of my Blue Mountains itinerary

If there’s one thing that every weekend getaway in Blue Mountains needs to include, it’s a sunset session from one of the spectacular lookout spots.

One of the most popular is Cahills Lookout near Katoomba ( here ).

If you’re eager to go off the beaten track and prefer a secluded sunset location without other tourists, you’ll be happy to know that right next to Cahill’s Lookout lies one of the most incredible viewpoints I’ve ever seen – Boars Head ( here )!

To get there, drive in the direction of Cahills Lookout and stop at one of the side parking areas. You’ll find small rocky paths that lead through bushy shrubs. Continue down the short trail and take your pick of one of the most spectacular viewing points in all of the Blue Mountains.

Pack a few snacks and enjoy one of the most gorgeous sunsets you’ll ever see!

Dinner at Aunt Eds

Katoomba has an array of restaurants from Indian food to Korean, Vietnamese, and good ol’ pub food!

Aunty Ed’s was top of my list, and the falafel bowl was one of the best (and biggest) meals I’ve had. All the food is scrumptious – from the fish and chips to the chicken Pomodoro.

Have an early night because you’ve got another big day in store for you tomorrow!

Blue Mountains itinerary: Day 2

Today, we’ll explore Blackheath, which is just a short drive from Katoomba.

It’s home to the Charles Darwin Hike, one of the most popular hiking trails. If you’re spending a weekend in Blue Mountains, you may find this spot pretty crowded.

Visit Evans Lookout

Evans Lookout ( here ) is a famous lookout spot that marks the end of the Charles Darwin hike.

I chose NOT to do the Charles Darwin hike.

Well, depending on when you plan your Blue Mountains trip, the Charles Darwin hike gets extremely busy. I couldn’t believe how many cars and people I saw when I arrived at the trailhead.

Another reason not to do the Charles Darwin hike is because this Blue Mountains itinerary includes the Federal Pass hike (which you did on day 1). That trail and the Charles Darwin hike are both forest walks and offer a similar hiking experience.

I was looking for a change of scenery.

The good news is that the main attraction of the Charles Darwin Hike is Evans Lookout. And you don’t need to walk the entire route to get there as it’s just a short walk from the car park.

Hike Porters Pass: Best walk on your Blue Mountains itinerary

• Time needed: 3 hours
• Trailhead: Blackheath ( here )

Just a short drive from Evans Lookout in Blackheath lies Porters Pass.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and find secluded hiking tracks and lookout spots, the Porters Pass hike is the one for you.

It’s for the more adventurous traveler – those who enjoy going off the beaten track!

You start the hike at the corner of Bundarra Street and Eveleigh Avenue in Blackheath ( here ). It’s a loop trail that takes around 3 hours to complete.

Porters Pass is a great addition to your Blue Mountains itinerary as it’s vastly different from the hike on day one. It’s far more rugged and raw and is a good mix of exposed trail and bush walk with sheer drops along the way.

You can follow my step-by-step Porters Pass hiking route, which will take you to epic lookout points, with the highlight being the jaw-dropping canyon at the end of the trail.

Lunch at Station Bar and Woodfired Pizza

By lunchtime, you’ll have worked up quite the appetite, trust me!

Your Blue Mountains weekend getaway is nearly over, and you’ll have to head back to Sydney soon.

But first, indulge in a yummy pizza at Station Bar and Woodfired Pizza in Katoomba.

The Yellow Deli is also a crowd favorite if you’re looking for a cozy café and some delicious baked treats.

READ MORE: PERFECT 5 DAY FRASER ISLAND ITINERARY

Take a snap at Lincoln’s Rock

There’s no better way to end your Blue Mountains weekend than with one final lookout spot, Lincoln’s Rock ( here ).

This is a stop in Leura on your way back to Sydney.

Lincoln’s Rock has to be one of the most gorgeous viewpoints in all of the Blue Mountains! Unlike many others, there are no fences and no barriers, and the massive rock is completely exposed.

It’s a hotspot for Instagrammers, but be careful not to venture too close to the edge as it can be extremely dangerous.

Other things to include in your Blue Mountains 2 day itinerary

This Blue Mountains itinerary is perfect for adventure travelers on a budget looking for a good mix of hiking and lookout points.

But there are other attractions and things to do that you might prefer depending on your time and budget.

Scenic World is one of the leading attractions in the Blue Mountains. With a scenic skyway and incredible vantage points, it’s no wonder this is the most touristy place to visit. A bit too commercial for my liking but if this is something you’re interested in, here’s a great tour from Sydney.

The Jenolan Caves are one of the largest and most spectacular cave formations in Australia, easily accessible from Katoomba. There are various tours to choose from, all of which offer incredible sights of the limestone caves, including underground rivers. Check tours and availability here.

Go canyoning, where you’ll spend the day abseiling down small cliffs and challenging drops. You’ll need to book a tour for this one, which also includes abseiling out of a canyon into a rock pool and swimming in creeks and beneath waterfalls. Find the best canyoning tours here.

Take a 2 Day rock-climbing course. The Blue Mountains is one of the best places to go rock climbing near Sydney. With draw-dropping views, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular activity here. This 2-day course is the perfect introduction to rock climbing which will also take you through standard technical and rope climbing training. Check out the rock-climbing itinerary here.

Where to stay for your Blue Mountains itinerary

Nestled among the national park are three towns that travelers use as their base for exploring the Blue Mountains.

These include Katoomba, which is arguably the most popular, as well as Blackheath and Leura.

Leura: A quieter base

When traveling from Sydney to the Blue Mountains, your first stop is Leura. It’s a charming town, home to the spectacular Lincoln’s Rock lookout point and Wentworth Falls.

If you’re looking for a quieter Blue Mountains weekend escape, Leura is a great place to stay.

Where to stay in Leura: The Old Leura Dairy is, without a doubt, one of the best places to stay in the area. With the rustic decor and country vibes, this place is super cozy and filled with character!

Check availability at The Old Leura Dairy .

Katoomba: Most popular place to stay in Blue Mountains

Katoomba is a tourist hub, with most visitors choosing to stay here during their Blue Mountains weekend getaway.

If this is your first time visiting the national park, I recommend that you pick Katoomba as your base.

Conveniently located between Leura and Blackheath, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food and accommodation options in Katoomba.

It’s the largest of the three towns and is the gateway to the top Blue Mountains attractions , including the Three Sisters, Echo Point, and Scenic World.

Where to stay in Katoomba: If you’re traveling on a budget, Flying Fox is the perfect place. This is where I stayed, and it was great. With large private rooms and inviting communal areas, it’s incredible value for money.

Check availability at Flying Fox.

Blackheath: Furtherst from Sydney

Blackheath is a quaint mountain town and the furthest of the three from Sydney.

With its relaxed vibe and impressive scenery, it’s one of the best places to stay for a romantic Blue Mountains getaway.

Blackheath boasts the famous Grand Canyon hike but is also home to a few hidden gems, including the Porters Pass hiking trail.

Where to stay in Blackheath: If you’re staying in Blackheath, you can’t go wrong with Kyah Boutique Hotel . This newly renovated hotel is styled to perfection and offers cozy living spaces for the chilly winter months and a large outdoor area to enjoy the warm summer weather.

Check availability at Kyah Boutique Hotel.

Tourist buses

If you’re taking the train from Sydney to Blue Mountains, you’ll struggle to get around without a car.

Because of this, you’ll have to stick to those lookout points and hiking trails that are easily accessible via public bus. You may even need to wait for buses or take detours to get to where you need to go. You can find the bus schedule here .

Alternatively, you can purchase a hop-on, hop-off bus ticket. This bus has numerous pick-up and drop-off points at all the top attractions in the Blue Mountains. Purchase yours here , and you’ll be ready to start your tour when you arrive!

When is the best time to visit Blue Mountains

If you’re planning 2 days in Blue Mountains and wondering when to visit, here’s what you need to know.

December to February: It’s summer and a great time to visit the Blue Mountains. The trails can get busy, so try to plan your trip for a weekday.

March to May: Fall is my favorite time to visit Blue Mountains. There’s a cool breeze in the air, which makes for ideal hiking conditions.

June to August: During winter, the Blue Mountains get very cold (so pack warmly). But the days are absolutely stunning, and the trails are uncrowded.

September to November: You can’t go wrong with planning a Blue Mountains itinerary during spring. It does get chilly in the evenings, so bring a light jacket.

Tips for your 2 day Blue Mountains weekend getaway

• Take a day pack when hiking, and don’t forget to pack water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and snacks
• Make sure your phone is fully charged. People have got lost for several days in the Blue Mountains.
• Visiting the Blue Mountains is free, and there’s no park entry, so it’s a cheap option for budget travelers.
• The Blue Mountains can be a lot colder than Sydney, so pack in some warm clothes.

Are The Blue Mountains Really Blue

No, the Blue Mountains are not actually blue! When looking from above, the Blue Mountains have a hazy blue tinge to them, hence the name. The cause of this blue haze is the thousands of Eucalyptus Trees in the area.

Their leaves release a fine mist in the heat, and this, combined with dust particles and water vapor, makes the haze look blue at a distance.

Is a day trip to the Blue Mountains worth it?

Yes! Because the Blue Mountains are only a 2-hour drive from Sydney, you can do and see a lot on a day trip. But if you have the time, 2 days is preferable.

Have you been to the Blue Mountains near Sydney? What was your highlight? Let me know in the comments section below!

Looking for more adventure activities in Australia? Check out these other posts.

• 27+ Adventure Activities in Cairns: The Perfect Itinerary
• Scuba Diving in Byron Bay: Everything You Need to Know
• The Ultimate Guide to The Bondi Coastal Walk
• Porters Pass: The Best Hike in The Blue Mountains
• The Best Cradle Mountain Summit Walk
• 12 Incredible Things to do in Cradle Mountain

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Planning a Perfect Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney, Australia

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While visiting Sydney, Australia, taking a Blue Mountains day trip was at the top of our must-do list. The Blue Mountains National Park lies just west of the city and is easily accessible by train, car or tour. The spectacular nature retreat features scenic landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, sheer cliffs and a network of hiking trails.

Additionally, an aerial cable car and steep railway at Scenic World allow park guests to enjoy unique experiences. Because of the numerous Blue Mountains attractions, Sydney day tours are popular excursions from the city. With so much to see and do, how do you plan to visit the Blue Mountains in a day?

We carefully considered our options for a Blue Mountains trip from Sydney – from what to see in Blue Mountains to whether or not we should take a tour to the best way to get there from Sydney. We are sharing what we learned (and our detailed Blue Mountains Itinerary) to help other travelers plan their perfect One-Day Blue Mountains Australia Tour.

How to Plan a Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney

When creating a Blue Mountains trip plan, these are the most important factors to consider:

• What to see in Blue Mountains NSW? 
• Self-Guided or Organized Tours to Blue Mountains from Sydney? 
• How to travel to Blue Mountains from Sydney? 
• Get organized for your Vacation to Australia by using our  Trip Planning Printables ! 

Deciding Which Places to Visit in Blue Mountains

With many Blue Mountains places to visit, you’ll need to decide what to include in a Sydney one-day trip. In addition, you also need to consider what kind of experiences you want and how much you want to spend. It is free to enter most of the park – including top Blue Mountain hiking trails and the best viewpoints – but there is a cost for tours and Scenic World attractions.

While a multitude of sights appealed to us (and I’m the kind of person who always wants to do everything!), it simply isn’t feasible to partake in all the park attractions on a Sydney one-day tour. The main reason we wanted to visit the Blue Mountains was to escape the city and immerse ourselves in nature. On our trip, we decided to limit our Blue Mountains sightseeing to the natural aspects of the park.

At the end of the article, we include detailed information on top attractions and tips on where to go in Blue Mountains and what to see.

Blue Mountains 1-Day Tour: Organized or DIY?

After determining which Blue Mountain sights to include in your one-day itinerary, you need to decide whether you want to take one of the organized Sydney day tours or plan your own Blue Mountains self-tour.

There are many benefits to joining an organized Blue Mountains tour bus excursion. The obvious advantage is that tours require little-to-no planning. Tour participants won’t need to sort the details of getting to Blue Mountains or wonder how much time to allot at each sight. And, without having to worry about the details of a Blue Mountains one-day trip, guests can simply sit back and enjoy the day.

On the other hand, there are a few reasons you might not want to join an organized tour from Sydney to Blue Mountains. It’s important to consider cost, limited time at sights and group dynamics before booking a tour.

We weighed the pros and cons of the organized Sydney, Australia day trips, focusing on our personal interests. Many of the Sydney day tours package together the best Blue Mountains tourist attractions with other nearby sights and activities, which means the experience will include much more than a visit to the park.

However, for us, hiking along the Blue Mountains walking tracks was one of the top reasons we wanted to visit Blue Mountains – so if we were going to take a tour, we needed to find one that allowed time for bush walks.

At the end of the post, we include detailed information on the best Blue Mountain tours from Sydney.

How To Get To Blue Mountains?

If foregoing the organized Blue Mountains Australia tour option, visitors need to figure out how to go to Blue Mountains from Sydney on their own. Self-driving allows for the most flexibility in planning a trip to the national park. However, for us, we prefer not to drive when abroad – especially in countries where they drive on the left side of the road. Fortunately, there is a viable Blue Mountains public transport option: the train to Blue Mountains from Sydney. To go to Blue Mountains by train takes about 2 hours and costs about $10 AUD each way. Note: There is no Sydney to Blue Mountains bus.

See specific details on how to get to Blue Mountains by train at the end of the article.

Our Perfect Blue Mountains Day Trip

After thoroughly researching our options, we decided to dedicate our one-day Blue Mountains trip to nature and bush walking. We debated between booking an organized Blue Mountains day tour that focused on hiking or planning our own trip via train from Sydney to Blue Mountains. In our research, we discovered a hiking trail that we could easily complete on our own: the Prince Henry Cliff Walk.

Highlights of the trail are the stellar viewpoints and tumbling waterfalls – and although it is technically a one-way trail, we discovered a way to create a loop so that we didn’t have to backtrack. The Blue Mountains hike was the exact nature experience we wanted: incredible scenery, but not overly strenuous. Although the Sydney day tours to Blue Mountains offer a good value, we determined it was best for us to plan a DIY Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney by train.

Detailed Blue Mountains Day Trip Itinerary

Creating our own Blue Mountains one-day itinerary from Sydney, meant we had to sort all of the excursion details on our own. Our Blue Mountains in One Day Itinerary outlines everything you need to know – from how to get to Blue Mountains from Sydney to the must-see viewpoints to how to coordinate your timeline for the day. Follow in our footsteps or use the information as a guide to plan your own ideal trip from Sydney to Blue Mountains.

Getting to Blue Mountains via the Sydney to Katoomba Train

Planning a Blue Mountains day trip by train is actually quite simple! The Blue Mountains Train Line (from Central Station to Katoomba Station), which is part of the Intercity Trains Network, covers the distance from Sydney to Blue Mountains in about two hours. To make the most of your trip, hop on a Central Station to Blue Mountains Train that departs early in the morning.

We took the morning Blue Mountain Express Train, not because it’s a big time-saver (it’s only 15 minutes quicker), but because it got us to Katoomba by mid-morning. The day of our Blue Mountains day trip, we arrived at Sydney Central Station about 20 minutes before departure – and the train was already at the platform. Right on schedule, the train slowly chugged out of the city toward Parramatta and then on from Paramatta to the Blue Mountains.

Blue Mountains from Sydney by Train (2023)

• Express Train Departure Time from Sydney Central to Katoomba : 8:48am
• Arrival Time to Katoomba Station : 10:32am
• Sydney to Blue Mountains Train Fare : $9.31 AUD
• The Blue Mountains Train ticket can be paid with an Opal or Contactless Credit Card

Find more Sydney Central to Blue Mountains Train details – including timetables and fares – at the end of the post.

Arrive in Katoomba

Katoomba, which has a population of about 8,000 residents, is the charming main town in Blue Mountains. Many of the top places to see in Blue Mountains NP are accessible from Katoomba, which makes it a great starting point for a day of exploration.

To get from the Katoomba Station to Blue Mountains Park, it is an easy 2km (1.2 mile) downhill walk along Katoomba Street. The street, which is lined with tourist shops, cafes and eateries, provides a direct path south from the station to the national park.

Getting from Katoomba to Blue Mountains National Park

From Katoomba Station, walk south on Katoomba Street. Pass Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant, then merge onto Panorama Drive, which curves to the east. At Echo Point Road, turn south and enter the park at Echo Point Lookout.

Top Tip: Make a stop at a grocery store on Katoomba Street to pick up hiking snacks and items for a picnic lunch. We like Woolworth’s, which is located on Waratah Street, just west of Katoomba Street. There’s also an ALDI in Katoomba, just across the street.

Katoomba to Blue Mountains Bus: The Blue Mountains Explorer Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus transports passengers from Katoomba to area attractions, including Echo Point, Scenic World and Leura Cascades. More info about this bus at the end of the post.

Take in the Views at Echo Point Lookout

Offering panoramic views of the park’s most iconic landscape, Echo Point Lookout is a must for every visitor of Blue Mountains NP. Ranking as the “Best Lookouts Blue Mountains,” the spacious Echo Point platform provides stunning views of the famous Three Sisters rock formation and Jamison Valley.

One level lower than Echo Point is Queen Elizabeth Lookout, which allows for an accessible secondary vantage point. In addition to the informational plaques found at the railings, visitors can obtain Blue Mountains info at the on-site Echo Point Information Center.

Blue Mountains Hikes from Echo Point

Many Katoomba hikes commence at Echo Point Lookout. Hikers can hop on a trail that travels west to complete the Blue Mountains waterfall walk to Katoomba Falls (and on to Scenic World). Ambitious trekkers can take the Katoomba walking tracks that lead south to the Three Sisters and down to the valley floor. Viewpoint-seekers – like ourselves – will want to find the Katoomba walks trail to the east, Prince Henry Cliff Walk, that follows the mountain’s edge to Leura Cascades and beyond.   

Top Tip : A Blue Mountains hiking map can be purchased from the Echo Point Information Center. We opted, however, to use the Blue Mountains tourist map included in the free magazine (available at the entrance of the info center). It was not the best Blue Mountains walking map and shouldn’t be used for more difficult Katoomba bush walks. However, it served its purpose for our day of hiking Blue Mountains Australia. Serious hikers should consider purchasing a trail book , which includes a complete map of Blue Mountains NSW.

Gaze at Three Sisters Blue Mountains

The Three Sisters is the most recognizable rock formation in the national park – and a must-see when you visit Blue Mountains from Sydney. Thousands of years of erosion paired with aboriginal fables make Three Sisters a landmark destination in the national park.

According to the indigenous legend, three sisters were turned to stone when they wanted to marry men outside their tribe. Consequently, a battle occurred between the two tribes and the only elder who had the power to return the sisters to human form was killed in the fight. Thus, the sisters remain stone for eternity.

Blue Mountains Bush Walks: Three Sisters Walk and the Giant Stairs Blue Mountains

From Echo Point, there is a short .8km (1/2 mile) Three Sisters Walk that allows visitors to access the first ‘sister’ via the Honeymoon Bridge. Hikers can loop back to Echo Point or opt to continue to the valley floor via the Giant Stairway. Detailed information on both of these hikes is provided at the end of the post.

Three Sisters to Elysian Rock via Prince Henry Cliff Walk

Total Length: 4.5km (2.8 miles)   |  Difficulty: Easy to Moderate  |  Total Time: 3-4 hours 

When we were planning our trip to Blue Mountains in a day, we were seeking out the best hikes in Blue Mountains – and we found it on the trek from Three Sisters to Elysian Rock via the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. Most of the natural path is enveloped in lush forest. Hugging the edge of the cliff, the easy-to-moderate trail offers more than 20 incredible lookout points. The entire length of the Prince Henry Cliff Walk is about 7km, of which we walked about 4.5km from Three Sisters to Elysian Rock, via Leura Cascades. Below, we break down the hike into sections.

Bush Walk from Three Sisters to Leura Cascades

Length: 3km (1.9 miles)  |  Difficulty: Easy to Moderate  |  Time: 1-2 hours

From Echo Point Lookout, the Prince Henry Cliff Walk to Leura Cascades begins behind the Echo Point Info Center. The trail joins the Three Sisters Walking Track, which leads to an up-close view of the first ‘sister’ and the top of the Giant Stairway. If time allows, make the out-and-back detour to the lookout point and take the stairs down to the bridge and cross over to the iconic rock formation.

Follow the signs for the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which roughly follows the ridgeline road, Cliff Drive. The dirt trail is enveloped in a forest of eucalyptus and other natural vegetation. Listen for the shriek of the Wild Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos as they fly overhead and above the vast valley. From the trail, there are numerous lookout points, each offering breathtaking views of the valley. We recommend venturing out to each viewpoint, but be certain not to miss Burrabarroo Lookout (one of our favorites!) and Bridal Veil Lookout for an awesome vantage point of the waterfall.  

Top Tip : Wooden benches are found sporadically along the path. Great for a rest, but if you packed a picnic lunch, we suggest waiting to eat until you get to Burrabarroo Lookout.

Blue Mountains Waterfalls: Leura Cascades and Bridal Veil Falls

The gently flowing Leura Falls Creek tumbles down stairstep rocks before streaming over the cliff’s edge into the valley below, creating what is better known as Bridal Veil Falls. Follow the path along the stream and across bridges for the best views of the Leura Cascades.

Top Tip : At Leura Cascades, there is a picnic area, bathroom facilities, parking and an Explorer Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off bus stop.

Leura Cascades to Elysian Rock

Length: 1.5km (.9 miles)  |  Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Just past the falls, hike along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk to the Bridal Veil View path. Take this detour for the absolute best viewpoint of the Bridal Veil Falls, then retrace your steps to reconnect with the main path. Shortly after the Tarpeian Rock lookout, the Olympian Rock Lookout is not too far – and the views are spectacular! Hiking on from Olympian Rock, you will arrive at Elysian Rock Lookout in less than 5 minutes.

Top Tip : We continued for another 10 minutes on the Blue Mountains hiking trail past Elysian Rock to Gordon Falls Lookout, but the view of the waterfall was a bit disappointing – especially after Leura Falls. On the other hand, this portion of the Prince Henry Trail was vacant of people, so if you are seeking a bit of solitude in the forest, you might want to continue on to Gordon Falls.

Conclude Your Blue Mountains Hike in Leura

From Elysian Rock Lookout (or Gordon Falls), make your way up to Olympian Parade; turn left (west) and walk to Leura Mall. Turn right (north) and follow the pleasant residential street for about 2km (1.2 miles) into the center of Leura, where there are a handful of shops, cafes and restaurants. At the top of the street is Leura Station.

Travel from Blue Mountains to Sydney

From the Leura Train Station, hop on the next Blue Mountains to Sydney train. We were aiming to be on the 3:54pm train – the last train before peak pricing begins – but arrived at the station earlier than we anticipated…and just in time for the 3:24pm train back to Sydney.

Blue Mountains to Sydney by Train (2023)

• Train Departure Time from Leura Station to Sydney Central: 3:24pm
• Arrival Time to Sydney Central Station : 5:21pm
• Blue Mountains to Sydney Train Fare : $9.31 AUD 
• The Blue Mountains Train ticket can be paid with an Opal or Contactless Card

More Detailed Blue Mountains from Sydney Train Information below!

What You Will Need for a Blue Mountains Day Trip

For the best Blue Mountains experience, you need to be prepared with a few essential items.

• If you are going hiking in the Blue Mountains, you need proper footwear . For the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which is an easy to moderate trail, casual trekking shoes are adequate, such as these shoes by Columbia or these by Merrell .
• Don’t forget important items like a refillable water bottle , insect repellent , sunscreen and binoculars . You’ll also want to have a Great Day Bag to pack it all in!
• For the best pictures of the Blue Mountains, you will want a proper travel camera . We carry a Canon Rebel , which takes incredible photos. But, for something a little less bulky, we suggest a Canon Powershot , which is slim, lightweight and has a nice zoom for a budget camera .
• Travel Insurance may assist if your flight is cancelled or luggage gets lost . It could be helpful as well if you get injured or ill while traveling . Find out more with World Nomads Travel Insurance . 

Blue Mountains FAQ

Here is everything you need to know about how to get from Sydney to Blue Mountains!

How Far is Blue Mountains from Sydney?

Sydney to Blue Mountains Distance is about 100km (60 miles).

How long does it take to get from Central to Blue Mountains?

The Blue mountains self-drive route from Sydney takes about one and a half hours. To get from Sydney to Blue Mountains by train takes about two hours.

Blue Mountains Train Line

Operated by NSW TrainLink, the Blue Mountains Train Line is the most direct and convenient public transportation option between Sydney and Blue Mountains National Park.

Blue Mountains Express Train

The express train only makes four stops between Central and Katoomba – Paramatta, Westmead, Penrith and Springwood. Although the express train makes significantly fewer stops than the regular train, the ride is only about 15 minutes shorter. There are two express trains that depart from Sydney – at 8:48am and 5:47pm. The express trains from Katoomba depart at 7:40am and 2:04pm.

Blue Mountains Train Station

The two best Blue Mountains train stations are Katoomba Railway Station and Leura Railway Station. Both stations are serviced by the regular the Blue Mountains Train line, however the Blue Mountains Express Train only stops in Katoomba.

Train: Sydney to Katoomba

There are multiple Blue Mountains Trains that depart from Sydney Central Station every day. The first train departs at 4:23am – and the last train departs at 12:18am (12:24am on weekends and holidays); there is at least one train every hour.

Train: Katoomba to Sydney

There are multiple Katoomba to Sydney Trains (and Leura to Sydney trains) that depart daily. Departures from Katoomba begin as early at 3:02am on weekdays and 4:38am on weekends and holidays.

Blue Mountains Train Timetable 2023

The current Blue Mountain train schedule can be found on the official NSW TrainLink website . Use the online Planner to plan your day trip via train from Sydney to Blue Mountains Australia. 

Sydney to Blue Mountains Train Cost 2023

The Sydney to Katoomba train fare depends on time of departure: Peak (6am to 7pm) or Non-Peak hours. The Sydney to Blue Mountains train price is $9.31 AUD for Peak Travel and $6.51 for Non-Peak Travel. Train fare can be paid using a Contactless Credit Card or the Opal Card .

Bus to Blue Mountains from Sydney

There is no public bus to Blue Mountains from Sydney.

Blue Mountains Day Trip Self-Drive

If you’re comfortable being behind the wheel, driving from Sydney to Blue Mountains can be an ideal mode of transport. The Sydney to Blue Mountains drive will take about 1.5 hours, but this route includes toll roads. You can find directions for the drive to Blue Mountains from Sydney on Google Maps . Note : A Blue Mountains Self-Drive Itinerary will differ slightly from our one-way hike from Katoomba to Leura via the Prince Henry trail.

Best Time to Visit Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are beautiful any time of year! In the summer months (December, January, February), it can be very warm, but cooler than Sydney. The autumn (March, April, May) is an ideal time for walks. In the winter (June, July, August), park visitors can expect cooler, but still generally pleasant, weather.

What To Do in Blue Mountains

There are many options of things to do on a Blue Mountains holiday – even if it is for just one day! Here are some of the top things to include on a Blue Mountains Itinerary for 1 Day.

More Blue Mountains Bush Walks

Although the Prince Henry Cliff Track proved to be one of the best walks in Blue Mountains for our style of hiking, there are several other trails in the park with varying degrees of difficulty.

Katoomba Falls Round Walk

Located between Echo Point and Scenic World are the Katoomba Falls. The Katoomba Falls Round Walk features viewpoints and forest trekking. The walk begins and ends at Scenic World.

Wentworth Falls Bushwalk

Another one of the popular Blue Mountains waterfalls, Wentworth Falls are located east of Leura. The Wentworth Falls loop walk is 1.4km (.9 miles). The steep trail incorporates 200 stairs from the clifftop to Fletchers Lookout.

Blue Mountains Three Sisters Walk

One of the most popular park treks is from Echo Point to the famous Three Sisters landmark. Find information about this walk here .

Three Sisters to Giant Stairway to Scenic World Walk

A stimulating hike, the Three Sisters to Scenic World Walk (via the Giant Stairways) is best suited to avid hikers who want a bit of a challenge. More info about this hike here .

More Blue Mountains Tracks can be found on the official NSW National Parks website .

Scenic World

Blue Mountains Scenic World is a hub of entertainment, including four main attractions: the Scenic Railway, the Scenic Skyway, the Scenic Cableway and the Scenic Walkway. Scenic World is open from 9am to 5pm on weekends (and weekdays during school holidays) and 10am – 4pm all other times. Ticket prices for Scenic World vary based on day of week, age and ticket type (single or family). The tickets are all-inclusive of Scenic World attractions. Find more information on the Scenic World website .

Blue Mountains Scenic Railway

Built as part of the mining operation in the Jamison Valley in the late 1800s, the steep track has an incline of 52 degrees, making it one of the steepest railways in the world.

Blue Mountains Scenic Skyway

The Skyway traverses the gorge from Scenic World to Echo Point 270 meters (886 feet) above the valley with views of Katoomba Falls.

Blue Mountains Cable Car

The Scenic Cableway Blue Mountains ride takes visitors 545 meters (1788 feet) from the top of the rim to the valley floor where they can explore the rainforest.

Blue Mountains Scenic Walkway

The Walkway is a 2.4km (1.5 mile) elevated walkway through the rainforest on the valley floor. The Walkway can be accessed by the Cableway and Railway.

Buy a Combo Scenic World and Explorer Bus Ticket for unlimited Scenic World and Explorer Bus Rides in advance of your trip!

Purchase the Rides Pass here!

Blue Mountains Bus Explorer

The Blue Mountains Explorer Bus is a fantastic option for park visitors who want to see multiple sights on a short timeline. The Hop-On-Hop-Off route begins at the train station and transports passengers to the top sights – like Echo Point, Scenic World and Leura Cascades. The stops are conveniently located at key points along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which allows trekkers to easily complete shorter sections of the trail – as well as partake in other activities. Find out more!

Book a Blue Mountains Tour

Visitors who want to book a Blue Mountain Sydney tour have many options. Because we didn’t opt to take a tour, we can’t personally vouch for a specific company or guide. However, when looking at tours, we always read reviews from fellow travelers to get a sense of what we can expect. The best Blue Mountains tours will have the highest online ratings, so make sure to read the Blue Mountain tour reviews before booking your trip!

There are many day tours from Sydney that offer an array of activities – both in the park and enroute to it. The best Sydney day trips to the Blue Mountains offer multiple attractions and value for money. Highlights of the most popular tours are seeing the Three Sisters, visiting Scenic World attractions (cable car and train) and learning about native Australian animals at a Blue Mountains wildlife park. Most of the tours include a Blue Mountains guide who will share historic and Aboriginal information about the park. Some day trips out of Sydney also include lunch and a ferry ride back to Sydney Harbour.

In addition to the standard tours, there are several adventure tours to Blue Mountains. Active travelers have a choice of difficult Blue Mountains hiking tours, 4WD tours and climbing/abseiling tours. Visitors can choose to go on a Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves tour that explore underground passages – or see it all from the sky on a helicopter tour! Participants on a one-day trip from Sydney can also join Blue Mountains private tours, small-group tours and large-group tours.

Classic Blue Mountains Tour

This 10-hour tour includes all the highlights of a day trip to the Blue Mountains. Visit a wildlife park, view Three Sisters from Echo Point and enjoy the rides at Scenic World and end the day with a river cruise. Book this popular tour!  

Blue Mountains Wildlife Park and Bushwalks Tour

Spend a full day experiencing the best of the Blue Mountains! Get up close and personal with native Australian animals and then join a guide for fantastic Blue Mountains viewpoints and a trek through the forest. Find out more!

Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves Day Tour

This adventurous Blue Mountains Cave Tour includes navigating Lucas Cave, visiting Scenic World (rides at own expense) and a river cruise into Sydney’s Circular Quay. Get More Details Here!  

4WD Adventure Tour in the Blue Mountains

Get off the beaten track and explore the Blue Mountains in a 4×4! See the top sights – and then take in vistas that most visitors miss. Check out the details !

Blue Mountains Helicopter Tour

Take in the breathtaking scenes of Blue Mountains National Park from the sky on an epic helicopter tour. Book it now ! 

Multi-Day Tours in the Blue Mountains

Trips to Blue Mountains from Sydney aren’t limited to one-day adventures. There are several Blue Mountain holiday packages that extend beyond a single day of exploration.

Hunter Valley and Blue Mountain Weekend Packages

This Hunter Valley and Blue Mountains 2-day Itinerary includes top sights and experiences with overnight accommodations. Learn more about this tour!

Blue Mountains 2-Day Tour: Overnight Wildlife Safari

Escape the crowds and discover natural wonders on a Blue Mountains small-group overnight tour. Get the details here! 

3-Day Camping Adventure with Wildlife, Hiking and Abseiling

This Blue Mountains 3-Day Itinerary includes waking up with kangaroos and spending evenings around a fire while watching Aboriginal dancers – as well as hiking through the Jamison Valley and abseiling adventures with views. Find out more!

More Sydney Day Trips

Day trips from Sydney are not limited to the Blue Mountains! Find other exciting Sydney Day Tours, search and book your activities in advance on Viator .

Thanks for reading our Blue Mountains Day Trip Guide!  Looking for more things to do in Sydney? Check out our detailed posts for a Self-Guided Sydney Walking Tour , Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk , and a great nature walk from Spit to Manly . We can also help you find excellent Sydney Craft Beer after your long days of sightseeing!

We want to know : Have you been on a Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney, Australia? What were the highlights of your trip? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below! Visiting other top destinations in Australia? Good on ya! Get prepared with our detailed advice to Melbourne , Brisbane , Perth , Cairns and the Gold Coast !

See All The Best Of Sydney !

Start planning your trip to Australia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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4 thoughts on “ Planning a Perfect Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney, Australia ”

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Day Trip in the Blue Mountains From Sydney Australia

One day in sydney australia’s blue mountains.

Sydney Australia is full of incredible things to do, be sure to spend a day or two outside of the city. Australia’s Blue Mountains are the perfect day trip from Sydney. You will find waterfalls, canyons, rainforests, bushland, and hiking trails. The natural blue haze surrounding the mountains is created when the oil from the Eucalyptus trees mixes with the atmosphere and sunlight. The Blue Mountains are located in New South Wales and are an easy two-hour train ride away from Sydney. Two of the most popular hikes are the Prince Henry Cliffwalk (below) and the Valley of the Waters hike .

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Day Trip to the Blue Mountains: the Prince Henry Cliffwalk

Take an early train from Sydney’s Central Station to the Katoomba Station on the Blue Mountain Line. Purchase your online ticket here . Be sure to grab a seat on the left-hand side of the train’s upper level to enjoy the views along the way. There is a lot to see and do in the park, try to arrive by 10:00 and plan your time beforehand. The Blue Mountains Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a great way to get around the area quickly and make the most of your time. The buses run every 30 minutes and pick up/drop off at the Katoomba Station.

Begin your Blue Monitians day trip with a stop in Leura for a quick coffee break. Check out Leura Cascades and Bridal Veil Falls lookout. When ready begin the Prince Henry Cliffwalk toward Scenic World. If you are not up to the walk, hop on the bus and hop off at Echo Point.

Head to Echo Point to view the Three Sisters rock formation. Don’t miss the view from Spooners Lookout. Listen to the Katoomba tribe’s legend of the sisters and walk down to the Honeymoon Bridge to access the first sister. If you are spending extra time in the area hike down the 800+ steel and stone stairs of the Giant Stairway. If not, stop in the Waradah Australian Centre and learn about Australia’s Indigenous culture before continuing on.

Lady Darley’s Lookout, Allambie Lookout, and Wollumai Lookout all have amazing views of the mountains and valleys along the way. Be sure to photograph Katoomba Falls from the Cliff View Lookout. Spend some time at the Katoomba Cascades and Katoomba Falls Lookout.

Shop for souvenirs at Scenic World. Ride the Scenic skyway across Jamison Valley. Take the Furber Steps or ride the world’s steepest scenic railway to the valley floor, it’s a 52-degree incline! Wander the boardwalk along the rainforest floor and check out the old mine.

Have more time? Hike the Valley of the Waters past Red Rock Falls, Lodore Falls, Sylvia Falls, Flat Rock Falls, and Empress Falls. Or, head to Blackheath and check out the Grose River Valley from Pulpit Rock Lookout, Govetts Leap, and Evan Lookout. Visiting in July? Stay for a weekend to celebrate Yulefest in the Blue Mountains .

Be sure to check the Blue Mountains Australia Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Plan Your  Day Trip To Australia’s Blue Mountains

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The blue mountains sound so similar to the hinterlands of Gold Coast. I suppose they must be the same Gondwana origin. Loved your pictures of your trip – especially those waterfalls. Thanks for this suggestion for I am sure to try it out when I get there.

We were in Sydney less than a month ago and so unlucky with the weather. The 4 days we were there, it was pouring like all hell had broken lose. We had planned to drive to Blue Mountains but I dropped the idea but we were advised not even to take the train and go because the experience would be spoiled completely due to the rains. What a lovely place we missed out on, the Katoomba Falls looks great and the view of 3 sisters from the Spooners Lookout is epic!

Wow! A little rain is doable. A downpour is depressing when traveling

Wow, such spectacular views from the Blue Mountains. The Falls are quite impressive as well. I’m planning on doing quite a bit of hiking this year and reading this makes me want to start in Sydney 🙂

That sounds like a good plan!

It has been 30 years since I visited the Blue Mountains, and so much has changed! So good to hear about the hop-on-hop-off bus so visitors can enjoy the area. Thanks for the tip about the lookouts, especially Cliff View Lookout.

Those buses can make all the difference

Oh my!! The views on the way here from Sydney must be a big shift? And it looks so peaceful!! I’d love to do this side trip when in Sydney!!

Scenic World is quite crowded, the rest is peaceful

Australia’s Blue Mountains sound like heaven! Hiking through the rainforest and seeing canyons and waterfalls is something we always enjoy doing when we go to Kawaii, but I’m still to do it in Australia. I could easily spend a week visiting the Blue Mountains, so I am very grateful to you for unveiling the many wonders in this area. Makes me want to go to Australia right now!

That’s great to hear!

The Blue Mountains is a such a scenic place to visit from Sydney as a day trip or longer. I love going bush walking as you could walk for hours and feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.

It’s really a blue mountain indeed! Hope you can also make a dedicated post about Waradah Australian Centre sharing Australia’s Indigenous culture and that so-called Charles Darwin Walk 🙂

Do you know I have been to Sydney six times and each time I try to go out to the Blue Mountains and I haven’t been yet. I think I need to plan a trip just for the Blue Mountains and Ride Scenic skyway across Jamison Valley

That sounds like a great plan!

Thanks for this trip back to the Blue Mountains outside Sydney. I did not know you could visit easily by train. Or that there was a hop-on-hop-off bus to take you around the area. Both great tips for a return visit without our family driving. We did love all the viewpoints to see the peaks and the waterfalls. I am sorry we missed the scenic railway to the valley floor. All a good reason to go back.

That railway is incredibly steep!

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The ultimate overnight sightseeing guide to the Blue Mountains, New South Wales

• 9 minute read

• February 8, 2021

Table of Contents

About the blue mountains, when to visit the blue mountains — weather and climate, how to get to the blue mountains, head to eagle hawk lookout for epic views of the three sisters, admire jamison valley via scenic world’s incredible railway, skyway, and cableway, hike to the beautiful katoomba falls, get lost in nature along the leura cascades trail, spend the night at woodsy-chic lodgings at love cabins, explore the ancient and awe-inspiring jenolan caves, marvel at the sheer cliff face of the iconic kanangra walls, stop at govetts leap lookout and pulpit rock lookout on the way back.

The color blue is elusive in nature, but venture 90 minutes inland from Sydney’s city limits and you’ll discover the Blue Mountains , named for the blue haze blanketing the region’s peaks and valleys. Dense eucalyptus forests contribute to this incredible phenomenon, filling the atmosphere with fine oil vapors that mix with other particles in the air to scatter short wavelengths of blue light, giving the mountains a dreamy blue tint. Couple this with jaw-dropping natural wonders, caves, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts and you’ve got yourself an epic destination worth more than just a day trip. Here is our ultimate sightseeing guide for a perfect Blue Mountains overnight trip from Sydney , covering everything from what to do in the Blue Mountains to directions on how to get around.

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The Blue Mountains are located in New South Wales, Australia. Bordering on Sydney’s metropolitan area, the region’s foothills start just 50 kilometers west of the city. The Blue Mountains are part of Australia’s most substantial mountain range, the Great Dividing Range , formed over 300 million years ago, stretching more than 3,500 kilometers along the Queensland, New South Wales, and Victorian coasts.

The region encompasses a series of mountain ridgelines separated by valleys up to 760 meters deep. The highest point in the Blue Mountains reaches an elevation of 1,189 meters. Scattered across the region at varying heights are several established towns, including Blackheath, Mount Victoria, Springwood, and the main town of the City of Blue Mountains, Katoomba.

The Blue Mountains is also part of the 1.03-million-hectare Greater Blue Mountains Area , one of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in New South Wales. The area is home to over 400 different animal species, including rare and endemic marsupials like the long-nosed potoroo and the spotted-tailed quoll.

The Blue Mountains can be visited all year round , though the temperatures are a little more extreme than in Sydney. Covering such a wide area, the temperature varies depending on elevation. In the upper mountains , the average temperature is around 5°C in winter and 18°C in summer , while the lower region has a warmer climate, averaging around 16°C in winter and 29° in summer . There is usually a big difference in nighttime and daytime temperatures, so be sure to pack extra layers of clothing on your overnight trip. Temperatures can dip below zero on clear nights.

Wet weather is more prevalent in summer. If you’re looking to avoid rainy days, the winter season between May and July is generally cool and dry . The upper mountains experience around five or six days of snowfall a year during the winter months.

The nearest major city to the Blue Mountains is Sydney. In light traffic, it is a 90-minute drive from Sydney’s city center to Katoomba . The journey is straightforward and well-signed, following the motorway and covering approximately 101 kilometers. Try to set off from the city as early as you can to avoid bad traffic.

Blue Mountains overnight sightseeing guide — 2-day itinerary

Day 1: Eagle Hawk Lookout – Scenic World – Katoomba Falls – Leura Cascades

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At daybreak, start your journey towards the Blue Mountains — we recommend setting off early to beat the heavy traffic. The Blue Mountains are famous for incredible vistas and you will find plenty of lookouts on your journey. For your first taste of this, stop at Eagle Point Lookout , which commands breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley and, most importantly, the Blue Mountains’ group of iconic sandstone rocks: the Three Sisters . 

This distinctive 200-million-year-old formation stands proud on a cliff that towers above the Jamison Valley. The tallest of the sisters is Meehni, standing at 922 meters. Wimlah and Gunnedoo are 918 meters and 906 meters respectively.

Traveler’s tip: Echo Point Lookout in Katoomba also offers the same sweeping view of the valley. However, the lookout is the most-visited attraction in the Blue Mountains and you’ll likely encounter busloads of tourists at this stop. Do yourself a favor on your self-drive trip and view the Three Sisters from the remote Eagle Point Lookout for zero crowds!

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How to get to Eagle Hawk Lookout: Eagle Hawk Lookout is approximately 105 kilometers from Sydney’s city center. If traffic is light, it will take you 1.5 hours to reach the lookout, which you’ll find just down the road from Scenic World. There is a tiny car park at the lookout, visible from the road.

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Your next stop is Scenic World , the most popular man-made attraction in the Blue Mountains. Adventurers will delight in the three unparalleled ways to admire the Jamison Valley, each experience allowing you to see the valley from a different perspective. The Scenic Railway , originally built in the late 19th century to transport coal from the Katoomba coal mine, takes you on a thrilling 310-meter ride through a cliff tunnel and down to the valley floor on an incline of 52 degrees, making it the steepest passenger railway in the world. Alternatively, you can reach the bottom of the valley via the 545-meter Scenic Cableway in an enclosed cabin. This is the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, granting riders unique views of the Three Sisters, Orphan Rock, and Mt. Solitary.

Finally, the Scenic Skyway allows you to enjoy grand views of the valley from a bird’s-eye view as you glide 720 meters between the cliff tops, suspended 270 meters above the landscape. See the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls on your journey, and don’t forget to look down through the glass floor for awesome views of the ancient forest below!

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Tickets for Scenic World experiences must be booked online — click here to plan your visit.

How to get to Scenic World: Follow directions for Violet Street and Cliff Drive, Katoomba, New South Wales 2780. It is located just two minutes north from the Eagle Hawk Lookout car park.

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If you’re thinking of stretching your legs, it’s time for a hike! Hiking enthusiasts with a love for waterfalls, grottos, and ferns shouldn’t pass up the chance to hike to Katoomba Falls ! Katoomba Falls is perhaps one of the most photographed waterfalls in all of Australia, being in close proximity to the Three Sisters. The waterfall stems from the Kedumba River and cascades 150 meters in two main segments. It is said to be the prettiest waterfall in the Blue Mountains.

How to get to Katoomba Falls: Set off from the main entrance of Scenic World (follow signs for the Prince Henry Cliff Walk). The 1.2-kilometer return track will take about two hours to complete, reaching an elevation of 146 meters. You will encounter some steep steps midway, but you don’t have to complete the entire track to come across views of Katoomba Falls should you feel like taking it easy — there are many lookouts along the way that also offer great views.

For a more moderate track, follow Leura Creek down to a charming waterfall on one of the loveliest short walks in the Leura area, located east of Katoomba. This circuit track allows you to admire the many small cascades in the park — take a walk beside the Leura Falls Creek rapids and make your way down to Leura Falls , crossing bridges along the way. Several other walking trails can be accessed from the Leura Cascades starting point, including the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. 

The Leura Cascades circuit itself is an easy 844 meters and covers an elevation of about 62 meters. It will take you about 30 minutes to complete, with the highlight of the walk being a beautiful lookout right at the end with superb views of the valley. 

How to get to the Leura Cascades Trail: Head to the Leura Cascades picnic area and car park, which are located along Chelmsford Drive in Leura. The start of the walking track is found at the southern end of the Leura Cascades picnic area, near the cave-like shelters.

Before evening arrives, settle into the most romantic of all Blue Mountains escapes. Love Cabins and its collection of award-winning, beautifully-designed bush cabins take seclusion and privacy to a whole new level. Nestled amidst 600 acres of the bushland, you’ll find no better place to spend the night, cocooned in the ancient Blue Mountains forest. From one-of-a-kind treehouses fitted with luxurious comforts (think fireplace, kitchenette, queen bed, and floor-to-ceiling windows), to dreamy wooden cabins that blend into the natural surroundings, a stay with Love Cabins is an experience quite unlike anything else.

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How to get to Love Cabins: Love Cabins is located approximately 53 kilometers from Leura — about a 50-minute drive. Follow directions to 17 Berambing Crest, Berambing NSW 2758.

Day 2: Jenolan Caves – Kanangra Walls – Govetts Leap Lookout & Pulpit Rock Lookout

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Adventure-seekers, it’s time to venture into the depths of some of the oldest caves on earth. The Jenolan Caves are an attraction built around a collection of 11 impressive limestone caves located west of the Blue Mountains in the Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve in the Central Tablelands region. Dating back hundreds of millions of years, they are the oldest discovered open caves in the world , the network following the course of a subterranean section of the Jenolan River and spanning over 40 kilometers of multi-level passages. 

Take a guided tour through the network to see ancient fossilized remains found throughout. These insightful excursions are offered at different difficulties for different fitness levels.

Guided tours must be booked in advance — click here to plan your visit.

How to get to the Jenolan Caves: From Love Cabins, travel 90 kilometers southwest — about 1.5 hours by car. Pass the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden along Bells Line of Road, turn left onto Darling Causeway, and turn right onto the Great Western Highway. Continue onto Jenolan Caves Road and keep driving until you reach your destination.

Hopefully, you still have enough space on your camera to take more photographs — there’s another spectacular sight to come. Leave the caves behind and journey south. Your next stop takes you deeper into the Greater Blue Mountains area to the 68,000-hectare Kanangra-Boyd National Park , where you’ll find the famous Kanangra-Boyd Lookout and unbelievable panoramic views of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area .

This unfenced lookout is a 10-minute walk down a track from the car park. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to enjoy superb views stretching from Kanangra Deep to the towering cliffs of the Kanangra Walls . Don’t forget to look up into the sky, too! You may be able to spot wedge-tail eagles soaring overhead.

Not convinced of the grandeur? Take a virtual tour of Kanangra-Boyd Lookout captured with Google Street View Trekker for a taste.

How to get to the Kanangra-Boyd Lookout: From Jenolan Caves, follow Jenolan Caves Road for 5.1 kilometers, then turn left onto Kanangra Walls Road. Head south for about 27 kilometers until you reach the car park to the lookout.

It’s time to head back to Sydney. Backtrack towards Katoomba, stopping about two kilometers east of Blackheath at Govetts Leap Lookout for a different view of the wilderness. From here, it’s all about unbeatable views of Grose Valley and the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls that plunges 180 meters down the side of the impressive cliff face.

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For a different view of Grose Valley, head to the Pulpit Rock Lookout , located 15 minutes from Govetts Leap Lookout. This lookout takes full advantage of the massive rocky headland that it sits on, offering visitors not just one tier but three, at varying levels, from which you can properly admire the valley. Best of all, you can access it all for free!

Head back to Sydney using the same route you took to get to the Blue Mountains.

We hope we’ve given you plenty of inspiration on what to do in the Blue Mountains in two days!

About TourHero

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Post written by: Angela Goh

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Sydney Luxury Travel Blog 10 Local Tips For The Perfect Blue Mountains Day Trip

Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney

A Sydney Tour Guide’s Top Tips updated for 2023.

A Blue Mountains day trip is one of the most popular Sydney tours available, and for good reason. I am a seasoned Sydney tour guide and have lived in the Blue Mountains and personally guided hundreds of day trips to this beautiful destination. In the blog post below I share some insider tips and answer the top 10 questions to help you choose the tour option that best suits you.

(Before I start, let me be up front and let you know that I am a private Sydney tour guide and that the Blue Mountains are one of my favourite places to take my guests. My own opinion is that they are best enjoyed on a small private Sydney tour with an experienced local guide so that you can get the best value out of your day and get beyond just visiting the more touristy locations. If that sounds interesting to you then we would be delighted to discuss the possibilities in more detail with you or you can simply make a booking to secure your personal driver and guide.)

Where are the Blue Mountains and are they worth visiting?

The Blue Mountains National Park is due west from Sydney and they start about 60 kilometres away with the main tourist region of Katoomba and Leura being about 90 kilometres away. In my own opinion, yes they are definitely worth visiting if you have time during your visit. Their close proximity to Sydney and the unique natural beauty, sweeping vistas and diversity of this region makes a Blue Mountains day trip a perfect nature lovers getaway.

What can I expect to see if I decide to visit?

The Blue Mountains region is made up of 7 separate national parks and is about 10,000 square kilometres in size, so it is quite vast. It was recognised in the year 2000 as a Unesco Heritage site due to its unique natural diversity. Rather than being pointy glacial mountains, you can expect to see more rounded peaks with deep valleys and towering cliffs, often with sparkling waterfalls plummeting over them. The sheer scale of the soaring sandstone cliffs and vistas frequently induces elated “WOW” responses and many guests make excited comparisons to the Grand Canyon. If you are on a smaller tour that can access the less visited spots then you may also find yourself enjoying ancient Aboriginal rock carvings and towering cool climate rainforests. All Blue Mountains tours should take you to the iconic Three Sisters, which is closest to the township of Katoomba and is one of the most recognised rock formations in Australia. You will also enjoy crisp mountain air, abundant local bird life, ornate gardens and charming local villages like Leura and Blackheath.

Should we visit Scenic World on our Blue Mountains day trip? Is it worth visiting?

The short answer for this in my opinion is yes, particularly for families with younger children or people with limited mobility. Scenic World allows you to experience an entirely different aspect of the Blue Mountains. You will descend from the clifftops down into the deep Jamison Valley below and enjoy its unique micro climate. You may or may not find the coal mining history interesting but for me the real reason to add this into your itinerary is for the cool climate rainforest below, for the chance to enjoy some beautiful short walks (on boardwalks or on trails for the more adventurous) and to potentially meet one of the most intriguing local creatures, the Superb Lyrebird. When the weather closes in, which being mountains it can do, it also provides an opportunity to get you under the clouds and into some better visibility.

Should we visit Jenolan Caves as well on our tour?

This is a harder one to answer, as it will have an impact on the timing of your Blue Mountains day trip. The reason is that the Jenolan Caves add at least another 2.5 hours of travel time to your day and may limit you from experiencing other aspects of the region. If you absolutely love caving or the weather is rainy when you visit, then you may want to ask for this to be included in your itinerary. The driving to the caves is very scenic and we often find kangaroos or wallabies next to the road and if you are really lucky you may even see a platypus in the sparkling Blue Lake.

What about Featherdale Wildlife Park? Should we include this in our tour?

Many Blue Mountains day trip itineraries will offer this as part of the day as it is en route to the Blue Mountains and can be easily visited on the way there or the way back to Sydney. Personally I like to ask my own guests whether they plan to visit other similar zoos during their stay and make the decision based on that. For anyone with limited time during their visit, Featherdale is a great inclusion and gives access to an array of Australian native animals such as koalas, kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, wombats and many others. If you plan on visiting Taronga Zoo or other zoos during your stay then you may prefer to spend more of your day enjoying being immersed in the mountains.

I heard about the Waradah Aboriginal Show in Katoomba, is it worth including?

This is an interesting presentation that only goes for 25 minutes yet gives you an excellent introduction to Aboriginal culture and history, with music, dance, story. The local tribes are thought to have been in the Blue Mountains area for over 20,000 years so this is a great inclusion for anyone who wants to have a well informed experience. Great option especially if the weather is wet or wild during your visit. (As of mid 2020 this business has sadly closed but we can arrange an immersive Aboriginal experience on request)

Are all of the itineraries and tour operators the same?

Not at all. There are operators of all shapes and sizes and many of them have very little experience with the Blue Mountains as a destination. If you choose a bigger bus or coach to tour in then you can expect that your visit will be limited to only the very touristy areas, as these are the only places that larger vehicles can access. If you want to enjoy a well balanced itinerary that shows you the best of the busier spots but also gets you away from the crowds to discover the lesser known secret spots then the best option is to choose a small or private tour. Private tours particularly can be tailored to suit your interests, tastes and fitness levels and will always give you the best experience. Click the following link to book a Blue Mountains private tour with us.

Is there good hiking options for different fitness levels in the Blue Mountains?

The Blue Mountains region is a mecca for hiking with very well defined and maintained trails. Your Sydney Guide has specialist guides that deliver Blue Mountains hiking tours that can be tailored to suit your fitness and ability levels. Hikes can be anywhere from 30 minutes to 3+ hours and can be along clifftop trails, into lush rainforest canyons or on elevated board walks. We love getting hiking requests and will guide you throughout the experience. A few of our favourite hikes are Grand Canyon, Empress Falls Trail, Hanging Rock Trail, Coachwood Glenn and various sections of the Undercliff Track.

What else can we do on our Blue Mountains Day trip from Sydney?

Although the Blue Mountains is most famous for its pure natural beauty, there are some other attractions and things to do that you might like to add to your day. You can visit one of the 2 Blue Mountains wineries with cellar doors to sample local wine, drive a little further to the Jenolan Caves or glow worm tunnels, visit the stunning high altitude Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens, sample some ciders on the Bell’s Line of Road, get adventurous with a canyoning, climbing or mountain biking guided tour, or even add in jaw dropping helicopter ride which will show you some of the most incredible scenery. All of these options can be built in one of our amazing private Blue Mountains tours . Chat to us to build your perfect day out.

Many itineraries offer a river cruise return to the city, is this worth doing?

This is an inclusion that I like to offer when the weather is fine and when my guests are staying close to the city centre. At the end of your private Blue Mountains tour it can be perfect to sit back on a river cat (ferry service that accesses shallow regions of Sydney Harbour) and gently cruise back to Circular Quay in the city. I would generally recommend including this unless the weather is really bad. There are two options for this, one is a public ferry service and the other is a private operator which offers drinks and snacks for purchase on board. Both take around 35 minutes to get you into the city.

Can I visit the Blue Mountains as a self drive tour?

Of course this is always an option, providing you are comfortable with local driving conditions but I would only usually suggest this if you have more than one day set aside to explore. If you are limited to one day only, then you will see more and learn more by choosing a Blue Mountains day trip that is professionally guided and tailored to suit. Also be aware that most car rental companies in Sydney will not allow any driving on unsealed roads and this will greatly limit your ability to see the best views that the area has to offer.

If I drive myself what’s the best way to get to the Blue Mountains on a day trip?

Most locals heading out on a Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney would simply follow the Western Distributor onto the M4 motorway which takes you directly west and is the main gateway from Sydney to the Blue Mountains. If driving this way you can stop in the charming village of Glenbrook at the visitor centre or grab some breakfast or a coffee. A far more scenic way to head to (or home from) the mountains is via the twisty and scenic Bells Line of Road which takes you through fruit growing towns like Bilpin where you can try local ciders or pies at numerous spots. This way also gives you an easy opportunity to stop at the stunning Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens or visit the Blue Mountains in autumn (March – May) to swing past the stunning village of Mount Wilson.

What should I take with me on the day?

Whatever time of year you visit you should include closed walking shoes or runners, a light rain/wind jacket, hat, warm jacket, sunscreen and plenty of water. Temperatures in Summer (Dec – Feb) can get well over 30 degrees celsius and in Winter (Jun – Aug) temps can drop to below zero, so it’s best to be prepared .

You sound like you know what you’re talking about, can we hire you as our guide?

I never thought you would ask 😉 Absolutely, having lived and studied outdoor recreation in the Blue Mountains and having guided hundreds of day tours to the region, I would be delighted to share this special place with you. We work with families, couples, business travellers, senior travellers and travel groups and can work with groups from 1 pax through to 20 pax and everything in between. We tailor our tours to suit our clients’ tastes and fitness levels and include refreshments and complimentary wifi on board during the tour. Please feel free to email us for any further advice or you can secure our services by making a secure online booking .

Inspired? Explore these related tours

Blue Mountains Private Tour with Winery and Tasting

Into the Blue – Our Classic Blue Mountains Private Day Tour

Blue Mountains Adventure Tour – Ropes, Hikes & Bikes

Need help or advice send us a message.

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Easy Blue Mountains Day Trip By Car [Itinerary]

Trying to decide if you should do your Blue Mountains day trip by car? If you are not sure if a Blue Mountains road trip is for you we have all the information you need to help you decide. We have created an easy to follow Blue Mountains driving itinerary to help you plan the perfect day out. Whether you fancy a bit of hiking or are a keen photographer we have you covered.

How to plan a Blue Mountains road trip itinerary

General advice for driving to the blue mountains, itinerary one – exploring the blue mountains with your camera, itinerary two – blue mountains drive with lots of bushwalking, things to know before you go.

This page contains affiliate links. Please see our full disclosure for more details.

Just like our one-day train itineraries , we have created two self-drive itineraries to help you have a perfect day in the Blue Mountains.

• Itinerary 1 – Hit as many sites as you can in one day (limited walking) and lots of photography
• Itinerary 2 – Fit in a couple of long bushwalks

Before you skip to your preferred itinerary, let’s cover some of the basics about taking the drive to the mountains.

Leave Sydney as early as you can and join the motorway towards Penrith. To reach the motorway, follow Parramatta Road to Strathfield and then take the M4, which will eventually join the Great Western Highway at past Penrith. If you don’t already have a car, we recommend Bayswater rentals in Kings Cross or check the options on Vroom Vroom who generally have good pricing.

Do you have to pay road tolls on your Blue Mountains Drive?

Using a rental car? This itinerary includes tolls, so if you don’t have an e-tag, ask your rental company if they supply them. If not, check out this website and learn how to pay your tolls online as you go.

Be sure to pay your toll within three days because they add charges to your original toll, and it can become costly.

Maps and guides for driving and visiting the mountains

If you don’t have a data plan on your phone, you might like to stop at the visitors’ centre at Glenbrook just as you reach the mountains to pick up some maps and local information.

This itinerary is focused on capturing those classic Blue Mountains photos without too much time spent walking on trails. Of course, ideally, you would spend a weekend in the mountains to allow a Blue Mountains sunrise and sunset, in your shot list but if you are limited to one day let’s make the most of it! We will cover four of the most popular Blue Mountains towns in this itinerary:

Wentworth Falls

The first stop of the morning is the charming village of Wentworth Falls. Leave the Great Western Highway and turn left onto Falls Road. If you need any refreshments at this stage, there are several cafes by the train station which is on your right as you are heading along the highway before Falls Road. If you’re someone who loves to shoot flowing water, then you will probably want to spend a couple of hours here. Along with the well known Wentworth Falls themselves, the area also has a few other gems especially the aptly named Valley of the Waters track.

There are two main parking spots in this part of the park,

• Wentworth Falls Car Park – for viewing Wentworth Falls
• Conservation Hut Car Park – for seeing the waterfalls along the Valley of the Waters Track and the cafe.

While you see the top of the falls from Wentworth Falls lookout and the nearby Fletchers Lookout, you need to venture further to see the full beauty of the falls. The Princes Rock lookout is your best bet for getting a good shot without expending too much energy. It is an easy 1.8 km return walk that offers a full view of the 3-drop, 187m falling into the valley below if you are lucky enough to be visiting after heavy rain, you will hear them well before you see them.

Find more details of the tracks and plan your walk here

The other special walk here is the  Valley of the Waters track which will have you walking into a deep gorge and past two small but striking waterfalls along the way.

The track is only 1.5km long but takes about 1.5 hours to walk. It’s graded as hard, but I think that relates to the number of steps rather than anything else. You should have nothing to worry about if you are reasonably fit. It can be quite wet underfoot along this track so do wear shoes with a decent grip and make sure you keep your camera gear well protected when you are not shooting.

The next village along the highway is the pretty town of Leura; many would say it is the most beautiful in the mountains. Along with a bunch of very impressive lookouts that can be easily reached from the car parks, Leura is home to some fabulous cafes and food stores. Consider stopping here for a spell because face it, you will need to put your camera down at some point to eat and there are good choices here!

But first, let’s check out the lookouts . The main ones in Leura are:

• Sublime Point
• Gordon Falls Lookout
• Elysian Rock (2 lookouts connected by a bridge)

Next, come the walks, our favourites are:

• Lyrebird Dell and the Pool of Siloam

If you have spent a lot of time at Wentworth Falls, you might need to pick just a couple. I am partial to Sublime Point Lookout and love the Pool of Siloam walk.

Leura Cascades is very popular and a well-shaded spot to practice taking flowing water images; however, parts of the area are still closed due to landslides. Check out this blog post that showcases so many of the pretty waterfalls in Leura. Tip: If you are here on an overnight visit, then Sublime point is another excellent sunrise lookout. A bonus is that you do not have to hike far in the dark to get to the lookout.

We have finally reached the main town in the mountains and home to the best-known sights in the region, the Three Sisters and Scenic World. Most tours spend the bulk of their time in the mountains in this area, and while it’s a beautiful spot, there are so many other places that are equally as beautiful and attract far few people so we will limit our time here a little to allow us time to explore Blackheath this afternoon.

If you are into street art, make a detour to Beverley Place just behind the main street of Katoomba for a quick look – this laneway full of murals.

If hunger strikes look for Hominy Bakery at 185 Katoomba Street. They offer delicious pies and usually have at least two vegetarian options. Parking can be hard to find here, one hour is $4, so consider parking a little down the way and walking along Katoomba Street to Echo Point to save some stress and money.

There are two lookouts at Echo Point for viewing the Three Sisters. The lower lookout is less crowded, so it’s worth checking out both. It’s also cool to walk out onto the Sisters via Honeymoon Bridge and shoot the rock formation from some less common angles. If you want to do this, it might be better to pay for metered parking at Echo Point to save time as this is also a 30 min return walk.

Once you are done here jump back in the car and make your way past Scenic World to the other side of the Three Sisters. If you need a bathroom stop, there are toilets in the Scenic World car park. Next stop is the reverse view of the Three Sisters seen from Eagle Hawk Lookout. This spot rarely attracts a crowd.

We will now begin to head back to the Great Western Highway for the drive to Blackheath

Along the way, you will pass

• Landslide Lookout
• Narrowneck Lookout
• Cahill Lookout

If you have enough time, you might want to stop at one of these. All are visible from the road, and no walking is required.

Related: Here are fifty more things to do in the Blue Mountains

Spend the afternoon in Blackheath and one of my favourite spots, Govetts Leap, which overlooks the Grose Valley. While I feel this area is best photographed at sunrise, the colours are lovely in the late afternoon too. In the middle of the day, the light is usually too harsh, you can get some good shots but you will need to do a bit of editing.

There are more than a few great spots here for photography. Check out these lookouts – none of them requires much walking to reach the vantage points.

• Evans Lookout
• Valley View Lookout
• Govetts Leap (and the waterfall) – best shot as early in the day as possible
• Pulpit Rock (500m walk) – An almost 360˚ panorama across the dramatic cliff lines to Mount Banks
• Anvil Rock Lookout – dirt road access but suitable for most cars, usually no one else around

Want to stay a while – Check out this cottage in Blackheath we loved.

Also in Blackheath is the Rhododendron Garden (best in early Spring) and the fabulous Victory Antique Centre.

If you need coffee at this point, I suggest the General Store on the Great Western Highway opposite the train station. Now head back onto the highway and retrace your steps home. On the way, you could drop into

Lincoln Rock

Also known as Flat Rock, this is a popular sunset spot to stop on your way back down the mountain. Lincoln’s rock looks out over the King’s Tableland and Jamison Valley. Check this Google map for the location. Please be very careful here as the area is not fenced.

Get more Blue Mountains photography ideas here

If like us, you are tempted to stay overnight and catch both the night sky and a Blue Mountains sunrise, then you might like to check out our Blue Mountains accommodation reviews for ideas.

Two areas that offer fantastic walks but are not well served by public transports are Wentworth Falls and Blackheath. Both of these towns have train stations but reaching the walking tracks adds a few extra km walks, so these are best suited to driving trips. You can choose between these two towns if you want to do a long walk or do two half-day walks, one in each place.

Wentworth Falls for bushwalkers

The first stop on the way up the highway, Wentworth Falls is a 3 level waterfall dropping 187 metres into the stunning Jamison Valley. To view the top of the falls, take the short walk to Princes Lookout. Several tracks in this area are closed indefinitely after a series rock slide that resulted in a fatality of a worker who was checking track safety. The tracks need significant upgrading before they can reopen. Take a look at the National Parks page for Wentworth Falls area for the latest advice.

Option 1. Valley of the Waters

This relatively short track is not an easy one (Grade 4), but it features two beautiful waterfalls that make it worth the effort. It covers 1.5km return, and the suggested time to complete is 1.5 hours, but if you are anything like us wanted to stop and take photos or enjoy the views it can easily take 2 hours.

• Syliva Falls
• Empress Falls

You can extend this walk to another waterfall, Vera Falls; doing this will add 2.5km to the walk and another couple of hours. The additional section is a Grade 5 walk. I would only recommend doing this if you are well prepared and have good hiking shoes and are used to being in the bush. It is a good idea to lodge an intention form at the office before you begin so you can be found in case of any mishaps. Have I put you off yet? If you are not experienced that is my intention 😉

Option 2 – Walk to the Base of Wentworth Falls

The most popular walk at Wentworth Falls is to take the track to see the full view of the falls or even head to the base of the falls. Instructions online vary about the best way to do this. Make sure you are using information that is relatively recent as there are often closures due to maintenance. Check the official NPWS website for current warnings and advice .

The walk to the falls starts from the main car park and follow signs to the Wentworth Falls Lookout. This path takes you over the top of the falls. Keep your eyes out for the Fletchers Lookout signs and turn left when you reach this lookout.

Shortly after this, the stairs begin. You will find going down relatively easy provided you have the right footwear. The stairs will take you to the top of the falls. Keep walking past the top of the falls and head uphill. Take the turnoff marked “Slack stairs” which via even more stairs takes to the bottom of Wentworth Falls swimming hole. There are some very steep metal ladders here; this might seem like the hardest part of the walk but remember you have to come back up them later thanks to the various track closures 😉

After you complete the three metal staircases, walk a little over half a km, and you will come to the base of the falls where you can reward yourself with a swim or some selfies. 

The good thing about the staircases in the second section of this walk is that they deter many people from making the trip to the bottom of the fall so you can often have the place to yourself.

Check out the full range of Wentworth Falls walks if you are keen to explore this area.

Blackheath for bushwalkers

There are so many special walks here that we decided recently to stay for two nights and make a weekend of it, but if you only have one day, you will need to make some choices. I have listed all the lookouts here above in Itinerary 1 so any that you miss on your walk you could swing by on the way home.

Option 1. Grand Canyon Loop Track

Our favourite walk in the Blue Mountains is the Grand Canyon Walk which is a 6km, 3.5-hour medium grade walk that offers a great variety of landscapes. This track opened over 100 years ago and was the first track in the Blue Mountains. We would suggest driving straight here and starting this walk nice and early. If you need a coffee before you begin then check out Synonymous at Medlow Bath or Anonymous at Blackheath. We usually begin this walk at Evans Lookout, but there are a couple of other parking spots nearby if you have trouble parking here. Neate’s Glen car park is also a popular starting point.

Option 2. Cliff Top Track

Update: March 2020 – This walk is currently closed – check the NPWS site for updates

Clifftop Walk is an easy trail if you have already given your legs a workout in the morning. This 6km track will take you about 3 and a half hours and provides more gorgeous lookouts. The only downside here is that it’s a one-way walk so best done if you are travelling with others and have two cars.

Check out the full range of Blackheath walks  they range in difficulty from grade 2 to grade 6, so there is something for everyone. Before you begin to walk on one of the longer tracks, visit the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, in Blackheath and lodge a trip intention form that will let them know you are walking in the park today. If you run into trouble and contact the authorities, they will have a good idea of where to start looking for you 🙂

If you are unsure of walking alone, then look at this option for a guided walk here with Tread Lightly Ecotours. We love visiting Blackheath, it’s a perfect spot for an extended stay and generally away from the tourist trail. AND if it all sounds a bit too much like work you might want to consider our guide to the best tours of the Blue Mountains and let someone else worry about the logistics 😉

Heading home

If you want to take a different way home, continue driving to Mt Victoria and turn right to Bell. Follow the Bells Line of Road to Richmond. This will allow you to visit the beautiful Mt Tomah (Blue Mountains) Botanic Gardens and Bilpin, also known as Sydney’s fruit bowl.

While apples are the main crop, several fruits are grown  including pears, figs, stone fruit and berries. Some orchids open their doors to the public during the season. It is best to check this before heading off to help you plan your route.

You can also enjoy cider tastings at Hillbilly Cider , Bilpin Cider and a bunch of other cellar doors .

Related: Check out some other great Road Trips for Sydney

You will travel on some toll roads so you will need to log on to this site to pay your toll within three days to avoid them adding an admin fee of $10-$20. You can work out toll costs with this calculator .

Check the  weather  forecast before you leave. Temperatures can be entirely different from Sydney.

Blue Mountains Apps

Ask Ros – a very handy app developed by a Blue Mountains local that covers events, attractions, local weather, itinerary ideas and lookouts. Well worth downloading.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife – excellent app for using maps and walking guides offline when internet access

On the way there or back you might want to visit Featherdale Wildlife Park 

Check out these links for more ideas

• 33 Blue Mountains Lookouts
• 12 Short Blue Mountains walks
• 50 Things to do in the Blue Mountains
• Where to Stay in the Blue Mountains

Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

6 thoughts on “Easy Blue Mountains Day Trip By Car [Itinerary]”

At Blackheath I presume you mean ‘Anonymous’ cafe and at Medlow Bath its companion ‘Synonymous’; both with Campos coffee. and both good.

Yes thanks Warren, I have corrected the error. Much appreciated.

Hi sydney expert. It seems you don’t purchase any tickets or go on any of Scenic World attractions. Does it mean I can visit the Blue Mountains for free?

Hi Jay You can visit the mountains for free – Scenic World is fun but you can cover get similar views by doing a couple of hikes. Perhaps do a walk from Leura and the walk to Katoomba falls. You could also walk out on to the three sisters. This post might help https://sydneyexpert.com/leura-cascades/

Hi Blue Mountain expert, We wish to enjoy the beautiful landscape including sunrise and sunset at Blue Mountains. We have planned to travel by driving on Feb 7(Sat) and stay one night at Blackheath. Please advise how to plan to the itinerary (with time) to catch the sunset and sunrise.

Please also advise if this is possible: We will likely split in two groups, with the senior group on the car ride and drive to Scenic world & take the cable cars, the other group hike from Echo points to Scenic World to meet the senior.

Thank you from Canada

We shared our weekend in Blackheath on this post https://sydneyexpert.com/a-weekend-in-blackheath/

Get one of the seniors to drop the walkers at Echo Point and park at Scenic World. If they finish the visit before those walking arrive there is a cafe area with a nice view where they can wait.

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The World on my Necklace

A Travel Blog by Katie Chavez

The Perfect Blue Mountains Itinerary For a Weekend Away

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

The Blue Mountains are not what you would picture when you think of Australia.

Deep green forested mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and small mountain villages where it is known to snow in winter. Only two hours by train from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are far removed from Coastal life in Australia’s biggest city.

Mostly famous for the rock formations, the Three Sisters, a lot of people travel to the Blue Mountains by train from Sydney to see these iconic rocky outcrops, do one or two of the short Blue Mountains walks, and have lunch and a look at the shops in Katoomba on a day trip.

A Blue Mountains day trip from Sydney is a great idea if you are short on time, but the charms of the Blue Mountain region are best appreciated by lingering. Especially in autumn when the mountains are at their prettiest.

Fun for me then was smoking, drinking and partying. I thought the mountains were pretty but I sure as hell wasn’t going to do anything crazy like hiking in them.

Fast forward nine years and that is exactly why I wanted to revisit the Blue Mountains. And there are some fabulous Blue Mountains walking tracks .

Our three days in the Blue Mountains were absolutely perfect and paved the way for many a future Blue Mountains weekend away.

The Perfect Blue Mountains Itinerary

Blue mountains itinerary day one.

After arriving in the Blue Mountains by train, we checked into our hostel in Katoomba then set out to explore the town.

Katoomba is the most well-known of the Blue Mountains towns and is the main tourist hub because of its proximity to the Three Sisters. It has a tidy main street with lots of eateries, small specialty shops, historic buildings, and hotels.  

Katoomba started out as a small mining town before its metamorphosis into a fashionable retreat after the building of the historic Carrington Hotel in 1882. It is the administrative headquarters of Blue Mountains City Council.

Our first day in Katoomba was ANZAC Day, a public holiday in Australia and New Zealand recognizing and honoring the servicemen who have fought in conflicts around the world.

The date itself, 25 th April, is the anniversary of one of the most significant campaigns involving Australians and New Zealanders in World War I, when the Allied forces landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey to go up against the Ottoman Turks. Both sides suffered a massive loss of life.

Gallipoli is now a popular pilgrimage for young Australians and New Zealanders.

It was a cold and drizzly day so we looked around the shops, and I had a hot chocolate at a local cafe , then when the sun came out later we decided to walk the half-hour to the Three Sisters.

Mother Nature is a bit confused around here.

Walking along the valley’s edge back to town we stopped to watch the sunset over the mountains. They really did look blue in the low evening light.

Whatever the cause, it is a beautiful sight, especially at sunset.

Blue Mountains Itinerary Day Two

Luckily after the abysmal weather for much of our first day, it cleared for the rest of our Blue Mountains weekend away. Hiking was the main reason for my wanting to return to the Blue Mountains so hiking was what we did for a large proportion of Saturday and Sunday.

It is named as such because the man himself traveled through Wentworth Falls back in 1836, toward the end of his long voyage as a naturalist on the HMS Beagle. His trip on horseback into the Blue Mountains was the only inland trip he did in Australia.

From there we started the Wentworth Pass track (currently closed), following the cliffside path that took us down steep rock-hewn stairs with dramatic views of the Jamison Valley below. Stopping at a viewpoint at the bottom of the first set of stairs, there were gorgeous views of the falls in all of their splendor.

We carried on down, further into the valley. Steep steel ladders led the last section of the hike down to the valley floor. The path was leveled out. Surrounded by thick foliage and tangled tree roots, there was an absence of light filtering through to the forest floor.

The Wentworth Pass track was really quiet, and we didn’t see many other people until we started heading upwards and out of the valley again.

From there we walked through the quiet residential streets of Wentworth Falls and back to the train station.

Blue Mountains Itinerary Day Three

The last day of our Blue Mountains weekend away we did the Federation Trail hike from the Three Sisters to the valley floor and up to Leura Cascades – one of the best Blue Mountains hikes in the area.

Similar to the day before at Wentworth Falls, it involved many, many stairs down, then hiking along a deserted path through the thick bush on the valley floor, before heading back up, to the Leura Cascades where we stopped to eat our packed lunch.

It is well known for its uncanny ability to mimic natural and artificial sounds, but the one we saw wasn’t very chatty.

There was a small market on when we went there, held in the tiny Town Hall, with stalls selling second-hand books, local produce, handmade jewelry, homemade food, and other knick-knacks.

There were lots of interesting shops selling candles, art, fashion, and tasteful souvenirs lining the quaint main street. A grassy strip with flowering bushes and park benches ran down the middle of the road.  

In the Blue Mountains, I have found my Australian hiking paradise. And it’s so close to Sydney. With cheap rail tickets, I will definitely be returning for another Blue Mountains weekend trip in the future for my mountain fix .

This captivating area is definitely worth the time to explore, even if you only have time  to do a Blue Mountains day trip. I hope this Blue Mountains itinerary can help you in planning your own Blue Mountains trip.

Planning Your Blue Mountains Weekend Away

Where to stay in the blue mountains.

There are many places you can stay in the Blue Mountains but I would recommend staying in Katoomba as it has lots of restaurants and cafes, and it’s walking distance to the cute town of Leura and the famous Three Sisters.

On this visit, I stayed at the Flying Fox Backpackers in Katoomba and loved it. Our private double room was cozy and we met some cool people during our stay. The lounge had comfy couches, lots of books, a friendly hostel cat, and a fireplace.

There was a free pancake breakfast each morning and the hostel was only five minutes walk from town.

I have also stayed at No14 Lovel St Hostel and loved it too. It is very similar to Flying  Fox in that it has a great location close to town, a free breakfast, and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

If you want to treat yourself to something nicer, I have stayed at the historic Carrington Hotel in Katoomba and the Hydro Majestic Blue Mountains Hotel in nearby Medlow  Bath and recommend them both.

They are both very grand and beautifully decorated – it really does feel like stepping back in time once you enter these majestic hotels.

Getting To the Blue Mountains

The blue mountains by train from sydney.

The cheapest and easiest way to visit the Blue Mountains is by taking a regular train from Sydney. On the weekend, it will only cost you $8.90 return if you are using an Opal card ! The usual return price for a ticket from Sydney’s Central Station to Katoomba is $13.80 and it takes two hours.

You can check the Transport NSW Trip Planner to check departure times.

Hire a Car from Sydney

If you want more freedom once you get to the Blue Mountains, then you should definitely hire a car. The drive up there takes around 90 minutes to two hours and it is a beautiful drive. Budget Car Rentals usually has the most competitive prices but check around before booking.

Where to Eat in the Blue Mountains

Everything we ate in the Blue Mountains was amazing, and Katoomba turned out to be a foodie haven.

We ate lunch one day at Sanwiye , a small Korean Restaurant with amazing chicken bulgogi (like a stir fry, a VERY delicious one). Washed down with natural grape juice it was an incredible introduction to Katoomba’s food scene.

The Old City Bank Brasserie and Bar is part of the Carrington Hotel. It is a British-style pub with high ceilings and historic photos of the area adorning the walls. We sampled a few of their expansive range of beers and had delicious pulled pork sandwiches.

We packed lunches for the days we spent hiking from the Hominy Bakery in town which had yummy quiches, focaccia, sausage rolls, apple pies, cookies, and other sweets. 

When To Visit the Blue Mountains

I have visited the Blue Mountains in every season and I loved every visit, but the Blue Mountains in Autumn is my favorite because the weather is nice but cooler – perfect to do some Blue Mountains walks, and the trees are colorful. 

I also loved visiting the Blue Mountains in winter for Yulefest celebrations in July.

The Best Travel Insurance for your Blue Mountains Trip

Make sure you get travel and health insurance before your Blue Mountains trip, just to be on the safe side. Safety Wing is my go-to and they are cheap and easy to claim with. 

Safety Wing also allows you to sign up when you are already traveling, unlike a lot of other travel insurance providers.

If you liked this post, check out more of my Blue Mountains and Sydney content:

• Celebrating Yulefest in the Blue Mountains of Australia
• How To Spend a Perfect Blue Mountains Autumn Day Out
• Hiking the Other Grand Canyon in the Blue Mountains of Australia
• The Ultimate Itinerary for 5 Days in Sydney
• The Best Sydney Walks
• Ultimate Offbeat Summer in Sydney Bucketlist
• 30 Reasons Why I Love Sydney
• A Beach Bum’s Guide To the Eastern Suburbs Beaches in Sydney

27 Comments on The Perfect Blue Mountains Itinerary For a Weekend Away

Thank you for doing this!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

I love it there, such a beautiful part of Australia

Wow! So different from our mountains here in BC but so beautiful at the same time 🙂

I LOVE the mountains in BC! One of my favorite places in the world. The Blue Mountains are very different for sure

Love this itinerary, many of your pictures have a Pandora feel, some of the framing you took give a “floating mountain perspective” that’s awesome!

Thanks Audrey, I see what you mean about the Pandora feel – the mountains there do have that look to them.

OMG so jealous of this! We really wanted to visit but the bush fires had other plans for us… hope to be able to do it on our next visit to Sydney.

I’m sorry you had to miss it. I hope you make it there next time

I hope the pandemic will be over soon. So that we can all travel safely. Thanks for sharing this.

Me too Camille!

Beautiful pictures! Great post.. Would love to visit soon!!

Thanks Lekha, I hope you make it there one day

I absolutely loved the Blue Mountains when I visited and reading your article brought it all back. Thank you!

Thanks for your comment Steph, happy to hear you loved it up there too 🙂

Great post on my part of the world. Next time take in Blackheath, 2 train stations passed Katoomba, great walks, beautiful trees and parks and a foodie paradise.

I’ve heard good things about Blackheath so I definitely will, thanks 🙂

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It looks beautiful there! I love the pictures with all the mist. I bet it was just gorgeous in person!

Thanks Amy! We were so lucky having the mist swirling just before sunset, the light was gorgeous. Going back to the Blue Mountains next month so fingers are crossed for more great weather

Enjoyed reading your trip recap! I’d love to visit the Blue Mountains next time I’m near Sydney. I didn’t know there is so much to do in the area besides the Three Sisters. I’ll need to spend more than just one day there, for sure!

Hi Lauren, thanks for your comment. I definitely recommend a longer stay if possible when you do go there 🙂

Thanks for taking me back to a place which I also enjoyed visiting I was there about 5yrars ago looking forward to reading about your trip with Robbie

Thanks Auntie Di 🙂

Really great photos, Katie! I’ve only been to the mountains for a day trip to the 3 sisters, but now I really want to go back. Thanks for the inspiration!

Thanks Sandra! It is pretty incredible up there, and great for a cheap weekend getaway from Sydney 🙂

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The Best Things to Do in The Blue Mountains (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 9, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in the Blue Mountains? Don’t miss our mini-guide with everything you’ll need to know, including how to get there!

One of the most popular and iconic day trips from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a spectacular display of New South Wales nature at its finest.

This area of Australia is sure to give you awe-inspiring viewpoints, a variety of hiking trail options, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

You might be surprised to find that the mountains are actually as blue as you’ve seen in pictures. It’s one of those natural phenomena that only adds to the natural beauty of the area and makes it seem almost other-worldly.

The mountains get their blue tint from the mass of Eucalyptus forests in the park.

The Eucalyptus trees release oil to the atmosphere, which then mixes with water vapour and dust particles to reflect a blue haze.

No matter which viewpoint you’re at, that blue colour always seems to be emanating from the mountains themselves.

Table of Contents

1) The Three Sisters and Echo Point

2) wentworth falls, 3) govetts leap and pulpit rock, 5) katoomba falls, 6) scenic world, 7) jenolan caves, 8) blue mountains botanic garden, 9) grand canyon walk, how much time do you need to visit the blue mountains, public transport, what to see and things to do in the blue mountains, australia.

Spend an afternoon, a whole day, or maybe even a few days in the Blue Mountains if you have the time. No matter your time constraints, there are countless activities to keep you busy in the Blue Mountains.

From Wentworth Falls, to Sublime Point Lookout in Leura, to the unique rock formations and sandstone cliffs throughout the park, here is our list of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains!

If you wish to see most of the sights in one day, we suggest booking a full day tour with Get Your Guide .

READ MORE: Here’s everything you need to know about  travelling in Australia .

The Three Sisters rock formation is one of the most popular sights at the Blue Mountains, and one of the main reasons why visitors make the trip out here.

The legend behind the landmark is that there were three beautiful sisters from the Katoomba tribe who were in love with three warriors from the Nepean tribe – the Katoomba tribe’s archenemies, of course.

When the three warrior men tried to capture the sisters, a tribal war broke out and a witchdoctor turned the sisters into rock to protect them from the fighting.

His idea didn’t quite work out as planned though because the witchdoctor was killed in battle, leaving the sisters in their rocky appearance still to this day.

Today, the Sisters proudly stand tall at 3,000 feet above sea level. They’re surrounded by the blue hues of mountains and valleys that expand out for miles on end.

You can also hike to the Three Sisters if you want to view them up close. To get there from Echo Point, take the Three Sisters Track and walk down the Giant Stairway until you reach the famous rocks.

Note that this is a pretty steep set of stairs that go almost straight down into a canyon, so just remember that you have to have the energy to come back up the Giant Stairway after taking selfies with the rocks.

If you’re exploring the region, take a detour to the Sisters -they’re a Blue Mountains must see!

One of the many waterfalls to see in the Blue Mountains, Wentworth Falls is a popular spot that you can get to from the Wentworth Falls Track.

In fact, no proper list of what to do in the Blue Mountains would be complete without mentioning these cascades!

The Wentworth Falls Trail goes by Jamison Valley and Wentworth lookouts, before leading you to Fletchers lookout, where you can have an unobstructed view of the falls and their 100m drop into the valley.

Wentworth Falls, near where the waterfall is located, is actually another little town in the Blue Mountains. It’s an optimal spot for relatively easy bush walks that give you impressive lookouts and sweeping views.

Arguably one of the most famous lookouts in Australia, Govetts Leap lookout provides a stunning view of thick gum tree forests and a waterfall that has a 180m drop.

If you’re lucky, you might spot a king parrot or yellow-tailed black cockatoo that are known to inhabit this area.

The lookout at Govetts Leap can also be a starting point for a more vigorous hike that descends into the Grose wilderness.

One of the best Blue Mountains walks is from Govetts Leap to Pulpit Rock Lookout. It’s a long but easy trail that snakes along the valley and ends at the magnificent Pulpit Rock Lookout. With a jagged cliff that sticks out from the edge, this is one of the best views in the Blue Mountains region.

If you have time for more epic views, also check out Hanging Rock Lookout. It’s not far from the other lookouts, and makes for super cool photos because it does actually look like a hanging rock above the Blue Mountains valley.

A picturesque little village within the Blue Mountains, Leura is worth visiting just for its unique atmosphere and abundance of nearby trails and good views.

The village offers a variety of gardens that are privately owned but open at different points of the year to the public. Everglades Gardens is one that is open year-round and offers sandstone terraces, picnic areas, and views of Jamison Valley.

Leura Cascades is another ideal spot for a picnic, and a starting point for walking to a variety of other waterfalls and lookouts, including Leura, Linda, Lila, and Bridal Veil Falls, and the Copelands Lookout and Fly Fox Lookout.

You can also visit a local orchard to pick whatever’s in season, shop for produce and take part in a cider tasting session at Hillbilly Cider’s cellar door. Or check out the stunning Sublime Point Lookout.

Or book an exciting, 3-hour land rover tour of the Blue Mountains area from Leura.

What I love about Katoomba Falls is that it’s a segmented waterfall that has almost a staircase or balcony effect. The dramatic scenery that surrounds it doesn’t hurt either. It’s also an easy waterfall to get to if you’re short on time.

From Echo Point, walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, pass the Katoomba Cascades, and arrive at the Cliff View Lookout which gives you an excellent view over Katoomba Falls from a distance.

If you want to get closer to the falls, follow the easy circuit track, Round Walk Trail, that starts from Scenic World.

Afterwards, consider strolling around Katoomba town in search of street art or heading to the Megalong Valley Tea Rooms.

Scenic World is one of the best places to visit in the Blue Mountains, as it is here where you can enjoy the view from the world’s steepest scenic railway.

Sounds equally terrifying and beautiful, right? Okay, it’s not actually that scary of a ride since it’s a railway, not a rollercoaster. But it’s a gorgeous (and yes, touristy) way to take in the beauty of the Blue Mountains.

You can also experience the scenic walkway, cable car, and skyway here, all of which provide different views and experiences over the Blue Mountains.

Personally, I prefer taking in the beauty of the area through hikes and trails, but if you’re more into a novel tourist experience, Scenic World can be a fun way to spend an hour at the park.

Your Blue Mountains sightseeing can’t be complete without a visit to the Scenic World!

• Location: Corner Violet Street & Cliff Drive
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 5 PM

The Jenolan Caves are located in the foothills of the Blue Mountains and feature some of the most spectacular cave structures in the world.

Located around an hour away from Katoomba on the fringe of neighboring Kanagra-Boyd National Park, Jenolan Caves offers a variety of cave tours that are well worth a day trip.

15 caves are accessible for public tours and there are nearby accommodations and meals if you plan to stay in the area. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the area around the Jenolan Caves you can also hike the nearby tracks.

Prices vary depending on which caves you would like to access. You can find more pricing information here .

You can also complete the nearby River Walk, an easy, relaxing walking track that passes by the dazzling Blue Lake.

These 28-hectare botanic gardens near Mount Tomah specialize in cooler-climate plants that would not grow well in the warmer areas of Australia.

It is the only botanic gardens located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has plenty to offer for anyone who enjoys plant and flower species.

Entry to the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is free and hours are 9 AM – 5 PM 7 days per week.

This walking track is one of the best in the Blue Mountains, but it’s still a hidden gem among tourists who tend to stay in Katoomba.

There are numerous amazing walking tracks in the mountains, but if you have to pick one, choose this one.

The Grand Canyon Walk is a 6km circuit that is suitable for all levels. There are some steep parts, but overall it is considered moderate difficulty.

The walking track takes you down into the valley, past rivers and streams and giant ferns. It is the perfect place to breathe in that fresh mountain air and exercise the legs.

Blue Mountains Travel Guide

Now that you what to see in the Blue Mountains, read further to learn how to get there and how to best organise your time in order to visit as many as possible of the Blue Mountains attractions.

At a minimum, give yourself a half-day to explore the most popular sights around the Blue Mountains. Remember that this park is huge and it takes time to get from one site to the next, even if you do the hop-on-hop-off bus which hits all the most popular tourist attractions.

Unsurprisingly, the Blue Mountains National Park is best taken in through the walking trails, so give yourself time to go on at least 1-2 short hikes around the park. If you can spend a full day at the Blue Mountains, or more, you won’t be disappointed.

Alternate ways to explore the Blue Mountains include horse riding, camping, and mountain biking in the fresh air. These require gear and potentially a tour guide, so come prepared!

Lastly, the earlier you get there the better, for crowds and the heat. If you’re doing the trip on your own via car or train, leave Sydney before sunrise to get an early start and experience that magical early morning glow of the mountains.

While you’re in the city, don’t miss out this great list of the best free things to do in Sydney .

How to Get to the Blue Mountains

Now that we’ve convinced you to take a day trip to the Blue Mountains, you’ll need to know the best way to get to there.

Depending on your budget and style, you have three options.

There are a few train stations and small country towns that span the Blue Mountains, but the one that seems to be the best starting point and transport hub is on the main street in Katoomba.

This is where you’ll find the main Blue Mountains Visitor Centre if you want to get more information and detailed maps before you tackle any hikes.

Katoomba is also where many of the tourist activities start from, such as the hop-on-hop-off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.

From Sydney, take the train to Parramatta, where you’ll connect with a local Blue Mountain Line train that’s heading toward Lithgow.

Again, you can get off at any of the stops to explore the area, but I recommend starting from Katoomba Station.

The day trip from Sydney takes just over two hours each way. Once you arrive you can either choose to sign up for one of the hop-on-hop-off buses, or walk to the first main attraction of the day – the Three Sisters.

The walk from the station on the main street in Katoomba to the Three Sisters Plaza is only 20 minutes.

If you have the luxury of your own wheels, the drive to the Blue Mountains only takes 90 minutes. From Sydney, take the Western Motorway (M4) to the Great Western Hwy (A32), which will lead you to Katoomba.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

If you really don’t want to deal with driving in Australia or taking public transit, there are also plenty of options for Blue Mountains tours that leave from Sydney, such as this popular one .

This guide should get you started with planning your Blue Mountains trip. But just remember that it’s only the beginning of what you could see in the national park.

There are countless outdoor adventures and trails to experience that couldn’t fit into one guide, so don’t be afraid to be spontaneous once you get there to discover more history, sights, and lookouts that you might not have heard of before.

Trails are well marked and it’s one of the most popular national parks in Australia. Come prepared to hike in Australian bushland but don’t forget to enjoy it to its fullest.

Looking to move to Australia from abroad? Check out my guide to getting a work visa for Australia !

That’s it for our list of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains! Have you been? What would you add? Leave a comment below and let us know!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Mimi McFadden

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary

Posted: October 19, 2023 | Last updated: October 19, 2023

The Blue Ridge Mountains run from the southern edge of Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Photo by Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

The lilting accents, the stiff drinks, the lingering meals—nearly everything about the American South asks us to slow down. The key to enjoying the region is not to rush. That goes for the Blue Ridge Parkway, too. With a speed limit that rarely exceeds 45 mph, the meandering, artfully laid-out, two-lane highway politely demands to be savored. It’s no surprise that people travel from around the world to experience one of North America’s most iconic routes.

Although it would only take about nine hours to drive the road straight through from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Asheville, North Carolina, give yourself five days to mosey along the 384 miles between these two cities, the most popular segment of the 469-mile-long Parkway. The drive’s scenery justifies its reputation as one of the great roads, following the rocky ridges, green plateaus, and soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains all the way from Shenandoah National Park down the Blue Ridge chain to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But the road has more appeal than just the dramatic vistas—the excuses to pause are as plentiful as the panoramas.

Illustration by Emily Blevins, animation by Claudia Cardia

Along this storied U.S. highway, you will see wild birds, breathtaking overlooks and mountain views, clear mountain streams, and mist-bound hilltops that remind you how the Blue Ridge Mountains got their name—you may even see some black bears picking their way through roadside woods for wild berries. You’ll hear birdsong as well as lots of banjos, fiddles, and guitars; you’ll hear the roar of waterfalls, and hopefully you’ll find a little silence, too. You’ll experience the sudden dark coolness of tunnels after brilliant sunlight and the particular thrill of driving around a curve to an open view that extends to the horizon.

The best time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

You can drive this route at any time of the year, but late spring through midfall are some of the best times to visit. Summertime can get warm, but the cooler temperatures along the parkway will work in your favor. Wildflowers bloom throughout May and June, setting the scene for an especially dreamy trip. And if you plan your trip in autumn, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable fall foliage .

A drive early in the year (January through March) comes with a few challenges. Some of the visitor centers, picnic areas, gift shops, and other places of interest will be closed if there’s heavy precipitation or freezing temperatures. This part of the country does get snow and ice—keep in mind that temperatures are often 5 to 10 degrees cooler than the lower regions of the states you’re traveling through.

Also remember that the Parkway can get foggy any time of year. Visibility can vanish, so expect to pull over at one of the many overlooks or stop points to wait for the weather to pass. Wildlife is abundant throughout the region, making the fog even more dangerous because you can’t always anticipate animal crossings. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you begin your day.

The itinerary

It’s a drive, yes, but five days should give you plenty of time to get out of the car, order some barbecue, listen to music, and head up into those hills. Use this itinerary to make the most of your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville’s amenities and proximity to the Parkway’s northern entrance make it an excellent place to start your trip. If you’re flying in to do the drive, the Albemarle-Charlottesville airport is also a natural spot for a one-way car rental. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is about a two-hour drive north of Charlottesville.

Where to stay: Oakhurst Inn

• Book now : Oakhurst Inn

Start the journey with a good night’s sleep at Oakhurst Inn , a companionable cluster of buildings from the 1920s. (Two were formerly boardinghouses; one, a professor’s home; and one, a fraternity house.) The 35-room inn has a lobby cocktail bar that’s open every evening until 9.

Day 2: Charlottesville to Floyd, Virginia

• Distance : 180 miles
• Highlights : Virginia ham sandwiches, hoedowns, and hikes

If you want to linger in Charlottesville before your drive, visit nearby Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello , or stroll through the grounds of the University of Virginia. Then head west on I-64 to begin your drive south on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The start of the Blue Ridge Parkway also marks the end of Skyline Drive. Skyline Drive is a similarly scenic highway that winds 105 miles north through Shenandoah National Park’s 200,000 acres of protected land. While that direction is deeply tempting, turn south instead.

If you’re a hiker or looking to get some biking in, you will already want to pull over at Milepost 6 to set foot on the Appalachian Trail, a two-mile uphill hike from the road. Anglers, on the other hand, may want to stop instead at the Tye River access point at Milepost 28.9, where the bites abound for summertime fly-casters.

Turn off at Glasgow (Milepost 61.4) for a stop at Layne’s Country Store and a country ham sandwich. Fill up your cooler with local jams, pickles, and hand-cut bacon. From Glasgow, it’s just a 10-minute drive to Natural Bridge , an impressively tall limestone arch. (If you skipped the ham and stayed on the Parkway, look to exit at Milepost 63.7.) This geological spectacle, dubbed “Nature’s Cathedral,” was once surveyed by a young George Washington, and was bundled into a land purchase Thomas Jefferson made from King George III. Take in the natural wonder, but spare yourself its many related tourist traps.

After you get back on the Parkway, drive another hour or so, stopping to spend the afternoon in Roanoke. The Taubman Museum of Art showcases regional, folk, and contemporary artworks and has a unique permanent collection of twinkling minaudières (whimsical evening bags) from designer Judith Leiber.

Where to stay: Airbnb

• Book now : Airbnb

The best options for overnighting near Floyd are via Airbnb . Your choices include a geodesic dome , a tiny house , and, best of all, a lovingly renovated mill above a creek.

Day 3: Floyd to Meadows of Dan, Virginia

• Distance : 23 miles
• Highlights : A historic mill and luxurious mountain resort

Long before the advent of Instagram, the idyllic Mabry Mill has been one of the Parkway’s most recognizable sights. The restored 1905 millhouse rests, shake-roofed and endearingly lopsided, streamside at Milepost 176. Get your photo, and then enjoy a pancake breakfast at the on-site restaurant , with buckwheat flour produced at the gristmill. (A bag of the flour makes a tasty souvenir.)

Where to stay: Primland

• Book now : Primland

With plenty of time left to enjoy the day, grab an early check-in at Primland , a luxury mountain resort sprawled across 12,000 acres near the Blue Ridge Parkway (exit at Milepost 177.7). The resort’s unusual menu of activities includes tree-climbing, sporting clays, archery, and stargazing at an observatory in the main lodge.

Even with all the diversions, you’ll want to turn in early to linger longer in one of the property’s unique tree-house cottages, featuring all the modern amenities of lavish hotel rooms, but built high up in the canopy of beautiful old trees. Take in the sunset and sweeping views of the Kibler Valley from your private deck in the trees.

Day 4: Meadows of Dan to Blowing Rock, North Carolina

• Distance : 124 miles
• Highlights : Fresh cheese, mountain music, and historic manors

After your treetop slumber, get back on the Blue Ridge Parkway and make your way to Milepost 213, near Galax (pronounced GAY-lax ), to see what’s going on at the Blue Ridge Music Center , a casual museum dedicated to mountain music where midday pickup shows with local string bands are an everyday occurrence. Galax is the lodestar for bluegrass musicians and their fans because of this museum and for the Old Fiddlers’ Convention held the second week of August every year. The music you hear will be top-notch, down-home gold.

Meadow Creek , a small dairy in the area, produces organic cheeses from cows’ milk that have a cult-like following among discerning palates. Its cheeses are sold at Chapters Bookshop & Wine Cellar , right in Galax.

Fire up your favorite music or tune in to a good podcast (might we suggest one of our own ?) because you’ve got the next 75 miles to listen and enjoy the scenery until the next stop in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Along this segment of the Parkway, the road is softened by elegant curves and long, expansive views. You’ll cross the North Carolina border along the road’s inaugural section. Construction began here at Cumberland Knob in 1935, part of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, and the entire length of the highway was finally completed in 1987.

Where to stay: The Blowing Rock Brewing Company Ale House & Inn

Where to stay: the blowing rock brewing company ale house & inn.

• Book now : The Blowing Rock Brewing Company Ale House & Inn

After exploring the town, retire to the Blowing Rock Brewing Company Ale House & Inn for a cold beer and a comfortable bed at one of the five rooms above the brewery.

Day 5: Blowing Rock to Asheville, North Carolina

• Distance : 96 miles
• Highlights : Mountain hikes, a swinging bridge, and the finale of road trip in beer-and-food-filled Asheville

Forgo your usual morning workout and instead hike Grandfather Mountain , not far from Blowing Rock. You can find a couple of trailheads right along the Parkway between Mileposts 304 and 308, but for a greater variety of options, exit at Milepost 305.1 for Grandfather Mountain State Park. Its 11 different trails range in difficulty from easy nature paths to routes that trace knife-sharp ridge lines and traverse sheer rock faces via ladders or steel cables.

If you can, opt for the somewhat strenuous trek along the Bridge Trail and cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge , which—though solidly engineered from galvanized steel—looks a bit scary spanning an 80-foot chasm. The view from the bridge is ample reward for the hike to get there, although an elevator has been added to make the span accessible for everyone.

Where to stay: Foundry Hotel or Grand Bohemian Asheville

• Book now : Foundry Hotel ; Grand Bohemian Asheville

Stay upstairs from Benne at the Foundry Hotel , which opened in 2018, transforming an old unused factory into stylish, loftlike accommodations. Or check in for a turn-down at Grand Bohemian Asheville . Don’t be deceived by the hotel’s all-business exterior; its splashy interiors are a delightful surprise.

What to pack

Before heading out on your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip, be sure to pack:

• A variety of clothes (and layers) for seasonal weather. The Parkway—with its deep shaded valleys, windy high peaks, and sunny plateaus—is known for its micro climates, pocketed regions where temperatures can vary as much as 30 degrees in a few minutes.
• Comfortable hiking boots or shoes. Don’t bring new ones, or you’ll end up with blisters.
• A bathing suit. Some swimming holes and streams are safe for swimming and provide a refreshing break.
• A cooler. The Parkway passes lots of country stores, farms, and orchards where you can snap up local produce and perishable treats.
• Maps. Cell phone reception here is spotty. Go old-school and bring paper maps and/or make sure Google Maps is downloaded on your phone.

This article was originally published in 2019 and most recently updated on October 19, 2023, to include current information.

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