From headline sights to easy half-day trips, these are the best things to do in Blue Mountains, a sandstone plateau and national park in New South Wales, Australia, with tips drawn from how people really visit.
The Blue Mountains are a sandstone plateau about 90 minutes west of Sydney, known for steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests and sweeping valley views. A UNESCO World Heritage listing recognizes the region’s natural value.
1. See the Three Sisters at Echo Point
This famous rock formation overlooks the Jamison Valley and is best viewed in the morning light. Expect crowds at the main platform.
2. Ride Scenic World
Scenic World has a steep railway, cableway and glass-floored skyway, plus a boardwalk through the rainforest. It is a family favorite.
3. Walk the Prince Henry Cliff Walk
This clifftop trail links Katoomba and Leura with sweeping lookouts and waterfalls. Allow a few hours for the full route.
4. Hike the Grand Canyon Track
A shady walk through ferns, creeks and sandstone walls near Blackheath. It is moderate, with steps.
5. Stroll Leura village
Cafes, boutiques and gardens line the main street, making a pleasant lunch stop.
6. Visit Govetts Leap lookout
One of the grandest views in the region, with a long waterfall dropping into the Grose Valley.
7. Explore the Jenolan Caves
Limestone caves with guided tours are about a one-hour drive from Katoomba, and tours range from easy to adventurous.
8. Tour the Everglades Gardens
Historic gardens in Leura showcase European-style plantings with Art Deco touches and mountain views.
Blue Mountains Quick Facts
- Location: New South Wales, Australia.
- Type of place: sandstone plateau and national park.
- Best time to visit: Visit in autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November) for mild weather, clear views and colorful gardens. Summer is warm and can bring bushfire smoke or storms, while winter is cool and sometimes frosty, with cozy fires in mountain towns.
- Suggested time: 2 days, or a day trip from Sydney if you are short on time.
- Busiest: weekends, school holidays and the long weekends of spring. Quietest: weekdays outside school holidays.
What to Eat in Blue Mountains
Cafes and bakeries in Leura and Katoomba serve strong coffee, pies and brunch. Mountain pubs and restaurants offer hearty meals, and some local producers sell berries and preserves.
Getting Around
Trains from Sydney’s Central Station run to Katoomba in about two hours. Driving takes around 90 minutes depending on traffic. Local buses and hop-on services link major attractions.
Money-Saving Tips
Walking trails and lookouts are free, and trains from Sydney are affordable. Scenic World is the main paid attraction, so consider whether it fits your priorities and book combo deals if offered.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Trying to do the whole region in a rushed half-day.
- Starting long hikes late in the day.
- Ignoring fire danger ratings in summer.
- Visiting only Echo Point and missing quieter lookouts.
Best Time to Do These Things
Visit in autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November) for mild weather, clear views and colorful gardens. Summer is warm and can bring bushfire smoke or storms, while winter is cool and sometimes frosty, with cozy fires in mountain towns. Check bushfire and weather warnings before hiking in summer, and carry plenty of water, as some tracks have steep stairs and little shade.
Top-Rated Tours in Blue Mountains
These are the best-reviewed options currently listed for Blue Mountains, based on traveler ratings and review counts on Viator. Prices are starting prices and change with date and group size.
- Depart Syd: Blue Mountains Best All Inclusive with Local Guide — rated 4.9 from 9,870 reviews, from $167.
- Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney Including Scenic World — rated 4.6 from 2,645 reviews, from $150.
- Blue Mountains Day Tour Including Parramatta River Cruise — rated 4.7 from 1,753 reviews, from $75.
- Blue Mountains: Three Sisters, Scenic World and Wildlife park — rated 4.9 from 1,528 reviews, from $189.
How to Fit It All In
Most visitors need 2 days to cover the highlights without rushing, and a day trip from Sydney is enough for the essentials. Our Blue Mountains trip-length guide shows how to split the days, and the best time to visit page helps you choose the season. Check bushfire and weather warnings before hiking in summer, and carry plenty of water, as some tracks have steep stairs and little shade.
Plan Your Trip
More Blue Mountains planning help: best tours and experiences in Blue Mountains, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay and how many days you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one thing to do in Blue Mountains?
See the Three Sisters at Echo Point tops most lists. This famous rock formation overlooks the Jamison Valley and is best viewed in the morning light.
What can I do in Blue Mountains in one day?
Take an early train or tour from Sydney to Echo Point to see the Three Sisters before crowds.
Is it worth booking a guided tour in Blue Mountains?
Tours save time on logistics and often include entry or transport. Listed tours start around $75 with a typical price near $150. The most-reviewed option we list is Depart Syd: Blue Mountains Best All Inclusive with Local Guide, rated 4.9 from 9,870 reviews and starting around $167.
Are there good day trips from Blue Mountains?
Explore the Jenolan Caves and Tour the Everglades Gardens are popular add-ons. See our trip-length guide for how to fit them in.
Plan Your Tours in Blue Mountains
Ready to book? See our full roundup of the best tours and experiences in Blue Mountains for guided options, skip-the-line tickets, and day trips.
