New South Wales is well-known for its sparkling capital of Sydney, its seemingly endless beaches and bushland, and its sophisticated dining scene. But combine the icons with lesser-known attractions, and this east coast state becomes a destination worthy of bucket list status. If you’re planning a trip, here are the 16 most best places to visit in NSW, each with unique attractions and accommodation options to suit all budgets.
GETTING AROUND NSW
NSW covers a large area of Australia and unfortunately it isn’t always well connected by public transport. Many of the places we’ve included can only be reached by car. When taking a road trip, we use Rentalcars to compare price across different hire car companies.
We’ve also thoroughly researched every single tour that might help you get around. While you’re in the city itself, this bus route can help you easily get to the main attractions.
WHERE TO STAY IN NSW
For places that can’t be reached in a day trip from Sydney, we’ve included recommendations for the best accommodation in the area. In general, we’ve found the biggest range of accommodation options on Trip.com, especially in the more remote areas.
MOBILE DATA IN AUSTRALIA
We use Airalo eSIMs on all of our trips because they can be set up easily. With Airalo’s eSIMs, we can access the Internet from virtually any country on the planet and don’t have to pay excessive roaming charges.
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16 most best places to visit in NSW, AUSTRALIA
1. Sydney City
As the capital of NSW, Sydney is a must-visit for places to visit in NSW. The iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge are just the beginning.
Best Things to Do:
• Sydney Opera House: Take a guided tour or watch a performance.
• Bondi Beach: Surf, swim, or just relax on this world-famous beach.
• Royal Botanic Garden: Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the harbor views.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Sydney:
• Luxury: Park Hyatt Sydney – Offers unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House.
• Mid-Range: The Grace Hotel – Located in the heart of Sydney with art deco charm.
• Budget: Sydney Harbour YHA – Affordable and has rooftop views of the Opera House.
🏆 For more tips on Sydney check out these posts below-
The Ultimate (7 Day) Sydney Itinerary (2024 update)
A Delicious Guide to Sydney’s Best Bars & Restaurants
The Absolute Best Places to Visit in Sydney, Australia
2. Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a laid-back coastal town famous for its beaches, surf culture, and artsy vibe. A Mecca of sand, sun and serenity this beautiful coastal town is one of the best places to visit in NSW, Australia.
Best Things to Do:
• Cape Byron Lighthouse: Walk to the lighthouse for sunrise or sunset.
• Main Beach: Relax on the beach or take a surf lesson.
• Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and crystal displays.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Byron Bay:
• Luxury: Elements of Byron – Eco-friendly resort with beach access.
• Mid-Range: Byron Bay Hotel & Apartments – Central location with modern amenities.
• Budget: Wake Up! Byron Bay – Vibrant hostel with private and shared rooms.
3. Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains is incredibly beautiful and is a must on this list of best places to visit in NSW, Australia. A short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures. Marvel at impressive rock formations, potter around in quaint villages or explore epic wilderness.
Best Things to Do:
• Three Sisters: Visit Echo Point for views of this iconic rock formation.
• Scenic World: Ride the Scenic Railway, Cableway, and Skyway.
• Wentworth Falls: Enjoy a hike and take in the stunning waterfall views.
🏨 Best Accommodations in the Blue Mountains:
• Luxury: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa – Offers luxury and stunning views.
• Mid-Range: Mountain Heritage Hotel – Charming hotel with panoramic views.
• Budget: Katoomba Mountain Lodge – Affordable and cozy with a communal kitchen.
🏆 Check out these other guides to the Blue Mountains-
How to Spend the Ultimate Blue Mountains Weekend Getaway
A Beautiful Day Trip to Leura in the Blue Mountains
4. Hunter Valley
Renowned for its world-class wineries, the Hunter Valley is a perfect addition on the list for the best places to visit in NSW for wine enthusiasts!
Best Things to Do:
• Wine Tasting: Visit top wineries like Brokenwood Wines and Tyrrell’s Wines.
• Hunter Valley Gardens: Stroll through themed gardens and seasonal events.
• Hot Air Ballooning: Experience the valley from above at sunrise.
🏨 Best Accommodations in the Hunter Valley:
• Luxury: Spicers Vineyards Estate – Boutique luxury with a vineyard setting.
• Mid-Range: Hunter Valley Resort – Family-friendly with a variety of activities.
• Budget: Wine Country Motor Inn – Affordable and comfortable.
5. Dubbo
Known for its open plains and famous zoo, Dubbo is a family-friendly destination and is a must see place to visit in NSW, Australia.
Best Things to Do:
• Taronga Western Plains Zoo: Explore the expansive zoo on foot, by bike, or in a cart.
• Old Dubbo Gaol: Learn about the history of crime and punishment in the 19th century.
• Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden: Stroll through themed gardens including a Japanese garden.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Dubbo:
• Luxury: Zoofari Lodge – Stay in luxurious African-style lodges at the zoo.
• Mid-Range: Quest Dubbo – Modern and comfortable apartments.
• Budget: Dubbo City Holiday Park – Affordable cabins and camping options.
🏆 Check out these other guides to Dubbo-
A Taste of Africa at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo
The 5 Best Things To Do in Dubbo (2024 Update)
6. Port Stephens
Known for its stunning beaches and marine life, Port Stephens is a coastal paradise making it one of the best places to visit in NSW, Australia.
Best Things to Do:
• Dolphin Watching: Take a boat tour to see the resident dolphins.
• Sandboarding: Try sandboarding on the Stockton Sand Dunes.
• Tomaree Head Summit Walk: Hike to the summit for panoramic views.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Port Stephens:
• Luxury: Anchorage Port Stephens – Luxury waterfront accommodation.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Nelson – Comfortable and centrally located.
• Budget: Samurai Beach Bungalows – Unique and budget-friendly.
7. Orange
A hub for food and wine lovers, Orange is known for its cool-climate wines and gourmet produce. If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing weekend escape then this is definitely one of the places to visit in NSW.
Best Things to Do:
• Wine Tasting: Visit vineyards like Philip Shaw and Rowlee Wines.
• Mount Canobolas: Hike or drive to the summit for spectacular views.
• Orange Regional Gallery: Explore contemporary Australian art.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Orange, NSW:
• Luxury: Byng Street Boutique Hotel – Stylish and historic.
• Mid-Range: Mercure Orange – Comfortable with great amenities.
• Budget: Ibis Styles Orange – Affordable and centrally located.
🏆 More tips and info on Orange, NSW-
The Best Things to do in Orange, NSW
Is Orange, NSW worth a visit?
The Best Wineries in Orange, NSW
8. Jervis Bay
If you’re looking for places to visit in NSW that are a little more popular then you need to visit Jervis Bay. Famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, Jervis Bay is perfect for beach lovers.
Best Things to Do:
• Hyams Beach: Relax on the beach with the whitest sand in the world.
• Jervis Bay Marine Park: Snorkel or dive to see marine life.
• Booderee National Park: Explore walking trails and Aboriginal heritage sites.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Jervis Bay:
• Luxury: Paperbark Camp – Unique glamping experience.
• Mid-Range: Huskisson Beach Motel – Convenient and comfortable.
• Budget: Jervis Bay Caravan Park – Affordable cabins and camping.
9. Coffs Harbour
Places to visit in NSW that are a bit more iconic is Coffs Harbour. A coastal city known for its beaches, rainforests, and the iconic Big Banana.
Best Things to Do:
• The Big Banana: Visit this fun amusement park and banana plantation.
• Muttonbird Island: Walk to the island for bird watching and great views.
• Dorrigo National Park: Hike through rainforests and see waterfalls.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Coffs Harbour:
• Luxury: Pacific Bay Resort – Beachfront resort with great facilities.
• Mid-Range: BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort – Family-friendly with multiple pools.
• Budget: Hoey Moey Backpackers – Affordable and social.
10. Tamworth
The country music capital of Australia, Tamworth offers a unique cultural experience.
Best Things to Do:
• Tamworth Country Music Festival: Attend the largest country music festival in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Australian Country Music Hall of Fame: Learn about the history of Australian country music.
• Oxley Scenic Lookout: Get panoramic views of Tamworth and the Peel Valley.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Tamworth:
• Luxury: Powerhouse Hotel by Rydges – Stylish and comfortable.
• Mid-Range: Best Western Sanctuary Inn – Centrally located with great amenities.
• Budget: Ibis Styles Tamworth– Affordable and social accommodation.
11. Lord Howe Island
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lord Howe Island is a haven for nature lovers. Lord Howe Island is a definite must-do of places to visit in NSW, Australia.
Best Things to Do:
• Ned’s Beach: Hand-feed fish in the clear waters.
• Mount Gower: Hike to the summit for incredible views.
• Lagoon Beach: Snorkel in the pristine waters.
Get connected while on Island time with an Airalo eSIM.
🏨 Best Accommodations on Lord Howe Island:
• Luxury: Capella Lodge – Exclusive and luxurious.
• Mid-Range: Arajilla Retreat – Comfortable and eco-friendly.
• Budget: Pinetrees Lodge – Historic and affordable.
13. Kiama
An amazing place to visit in NSW and famous for its blowholes and coastal beauty, Kiama is a picturesque seaside town.
Best Things to Do:
• Kiama Blowhole: Watch water spout up to 25 meters into the air.
• Saddleback Mountain Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
• Kiama Coast Walk: Hike along the stunning coastline.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Kiama:
• Luxury: The Sebel Harbourside Kiama – Modern and stylish.
• Mid-Range: Kiama Shores – Centrally located with great facilities.
• Budget: Surf Beach Holiday Park – Affordable and beachfront.
14. Mudgee
Known for its boutique wineries and historic charm, Mudgee offers a relaxing countryside escape. If you’re looking for romantic places to visit in NSW then Mudgee should be at the top of the list.
Best Things to Do:
• Winery Tours: Explore local wineries like Lowe Wines and Logan Wines for tastings and picturesque views.
• The Drip Gorge: Hike to this scenic sandstone gorge and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Mudgee Farmers’ Market: Visit the monthly market for fresh produce and local goods.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Mudgee:
• Luxury: Evanslea Luxury Boutique Accommodation – Elegant, private cottages with a spa and lush gardens.
• Budget: The Horatio – A cozy, boutique motel with clean, affordable rooms.
15. Snowy Mountains
Famed for its alpine beauty, the Snowy Mountains are perfect for adventure enthusiasts all year round.
Best Things to Do:
• Skiing at Thredbo or Perisher: Hit the slopes during the winter season.
• Mount Kosciuszko Summit Hike: Hike to Australia’s highest peak in the warmer months.
• Lake Jindabyne: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and scenic views around this stunning lake.
🏨 Best Accommodations in the Snowy Mountains:
• Luxury: Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa – A high-end alpine resort offering luxe chalets and outdoor activities.
• Budget: YHA Thredbo – Affordable hostel with great views and a welcoming atmosphere.
16. Mungo National Park
A very unique place to visit in NSW is UNESCO World Heritage site, Mungo National Park is known for its ancient history and otherworldly landscapes.
Best Things to Do:
• Walls of China: Join a guided tour to explore these iconic sand formations and learn about Aboriginal heritage.
• Mungo Self-Guided Drive Tour: Drive around the park to witness its ancient geological and cultural features.
• Sunset Over Mungo: Watch the sun set over the dramatic lunar-like landscape.
🏨 Best Accommodations in Mungo NP:
• Luxury: Mungo Lodge – An eco-lodge with stylish cabins and gourmet dining in a remote setting.
• Budget: Mungo Shearers’ Quarters – Simple heritage-style accommodation located within the national park.
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