The Blue Mountains is one of Australia’s most beautiful places, with stunning landscapes, views and experiences. But when planning your trip, the question arises: which city should you start from? Let’s look at the best starting points to help you make the most of your trip.
Starting from Sydney
Proximity and Convenience: Sydney is the most popular starting point for Blue Mountains trips. Only 90 minutes by car or train, the city is a direct route to this World Heritage-listed wonder. If you’re flying into Australia, Sydney’s international airport is the obvious choice. Starting from here means you have plenty of time to get the most out of your trip.
Transport: From Sydney you can drive to the Blue Mountains via the M4 Motorway or take the train from Central Station to Katoomba, the hub of the region. Trains run frequently and are a great way to enjoy the views. Public transport is perfect for those who want to book without the hassle of driving.
What to Expect: Starting from Sydney means you have access to guided Blue Mountains tour, day trips and itineraries for beginners and seasoned adventurers. Highlights include the Three Sisters, Echo Point Lookout, Scenic World, and Jenolan Caves. Nearby, the Hunter Valley and Sydney Harbour are great options to add to your trip. Autopia Tours has all-inclusive tours departing from Sydney, so it’s a great time to travel. Consider adding rock climbing, bushwalking or visiting popular valleys for the ultimate experience.
Starting from Canberra
A Longer Journey: If you’re in Canberra the Blue MounA Longer Journey: If you’re in Canberra, the Blue Mountains are 4 hours away. While not as convenient as Sydney, this route has its own charm. The drive goes through beautiful countryside and charming towns, perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.
Why Canberra? Starting from Canberra might be for those who want to combine their Blue Mountains trip with a visit to Australia’s capital city. You can visit Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial before heading to the mountains. This option also means you can have a picnic lunch with stunning views of native wildlife. Nearby Namadgi National Park adds to your itinerary. Time for bushwalking and exploring hidden rock formations means you’ll have a trip to remember.
From Melbourne
For the Adventurous Road-Tripper: Melbourne is 9 hours from the Blue Mountains by car. Perfect for those who love long road trips and want to see Victoria and New South Wales along the way. You have plenty of time to stop and see the waterfalls, villages and scenery along the way.
Other Options: You can also fly from Melbourne to Sydney and then to the Blue Mountains. This saves time and lets you focus on the region rather than driving for hours. Add Phillip Island or the Great Ocean Road to your Melbourne trip for a trip to remember. A Blue Mountains Day Tour along the way will give you amazing photos and a personal encounter with Australia’s wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
While the Blue Mountains are a must-see, there are other destinations nearby that will add to your trip. Consider:
- Hunter Valley: World-class wineries and villages.
- Jenolan Caves: One of the oldest cave systems in the world, an immersive experience.
- Sydney Harbour: Iconic landmarks and views, perfect before or after your Blue Mountains adventure.
Facts
- Sydney: Best for convenience, public transport, accessibility.
- Canberra: Best for combined mountain and cultural trips.
- Melbourne: For road trippers and long-distance travellers.
Planning Your Trip
- Pack Smart: The weather in the Blue Mountains can be wild, so pack layers and waterproof gear. Temperatures can vary greatly depending on the season.
- Book Ahead: Whether from Sydney, Canberra or Melbourne, book your accommodation in advance through a trusted booking site.
- Plan Your Day: Do you want a day trip, all inclusive Blue Mountain sunset tour or an extended trip to see more trails, rock formations and attractions.
- Be Kind to Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the Blue Mountains beautiful and enjoyable for everyone.
- Try Something Different: Blue Mountains Walkabout, Pulpit Rock hikes or Wildlife Tours for a real experience.
- Avoid Peak Hour: Plan your day to make the most of it without feeling rushed.
- Take Amazing Photos: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the scenery and views.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit the Blue Mountains?
Spring (Sept to Nov) and autumn (March to May) are lovely. Summer is great and winter can snow at higher elevations.
Are there public transport options to the Blue Mountains?
Yes, trains from Sydney’s Central Station get you there directly. Buses are frequent so you have lots of flexibility.
Can I do a day trip to the Blue Mountains?
Yes! Many people do day trips from Sydney but staying overnight gives you more time to explore and more options.
What are the top attractions in the Blue Mountains?
The Three Sisters, Echo Point Lookout, Scenic World, Wentworth Falls, Pulpit Rock and Jenolan Caves. Popular valleys and secret spots for great photos and views.
Do I need a guide for hiking in the Blue Mountains?
Not necessarily. Many trails are signposted but a guide can add to your experience by providing historical context and info on native wildlife.
