The diverse geography of NSW gives the state a layered, multifaceted identity, from lively beach towns along the glittering coastline to inland cities steeped in history and foodie towns that make for a perfect slow escape. Closer to home, small mountain towns sit tucked among natural wonders and rugged landscapes, each with a distinct personality and unique attractions, offering something for every type of traveller. If you’re after elegant boutiques and vibrant gardens, head to Leura. For antique stores and dramatic lookouts, Blackheath delivers. And if you’re after a classic gateway to the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is the place to start. It’s also right on Sydney’s doorstep if you’re after a quick and affordable escape. Here’s why you should plan a trip to Katoomba this winter and everything to see, eat, and do while you’re there.
Things to do in Katoomba this winter
Katoomba has all the right ingredients for a winter getaway — a charming main street lined with Art Deco buildings, cosy cafes with heritage charm, and fireside bars and breweries aplenty. It’s also the ideal base for exploring the Blue Mountains National Park, perfect for soaking up fresh mountain air and crisp sunshine on a cold day. If you’re lucky, you may even see snow.
There’s no shortage of things to do in and around town. Kick off your day with the double-decker Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, which loops past some of the region’s best spots, from Echo Point and the Three Sisters to Leura Cascades and panoramic lookouts. For family-friendly fun, head to Scenic World to ride the world’s steepest passenger train, glide across the Scenic Skyway, the largest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, and warm up with hot chocolate and winter treats.
Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a serious hike, Katoomba is the perfect place for walkers. The 2.4km Charles Darwin Walk is a relaxed track winding past rockpools, waterfalls, and native bushland, while the 34km Mount Solitary hike offers a tougher, multi-day trek with sweeping views and remote bush camping. For something fun and different, try the Katoomba Night-Lit Walk and see local landmarks like Orphan Rock, Witches Leap, Katoomba Falls, and the Cascades light up after dark.
Prefer to stay warm and cosy indoors? Katoomba may be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to cafes, pubs and fireside spots. Grab a top-notch brew at Cassiopeia or settle in at The Lookout Echo Point for waffles, breakfast rolls and burgers with a front-row view of the Three Sisters. For baked treats, head straight to Black Cockatoo Bakery. And if you’re after something a little more indulgent, Little Paris Cafe brings the charm of a French bistro, without the long-haul flight. You can also warm up by the fire at The Carrington Hotel in an old-world setting, or head to Darley’s Restaurant and enjoy a warm, elegant meal by two ornate fireplaces.
What else can you do?
The town itself is best explored on foot. Get a feel of its heritage charm by going on the Street Art Walk and discover colourful murals, hidden laneways and vintage spots around town. Then make your way to the must-visit Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, which hosts year-round exhibitions, artist talks and workshops, and also houses the Katoomba Library, a welcoming cafe, a retail shop and more under one roof.
Shoppers will enjoy browsing the Katoomba Vintage Emporium, packed with retro finds and quirky treasures, or exploring the Katoomba Antique Centre for rare pieces from around the world. For clothes, Forever Friday offers a great mix of pre-loved items, while Saint Joan caters to those who love slow, thoughtfully curated design.
Getting there
Katoomba is an easy and quick 1.5-hour drive from Sydney via the M4 and the Great Western Highway, and just as accessible via public transport. Just hop on a direct train from Central to Katoomba and you will reach the town in around 2 hours. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.