Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Canberra for a day? Explore the stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions just a short drive away with exciting day trips from Canberra. From picturesque vineyards and charming country towns to rugged national parks and historic sites, there is no shortage of options for a memorable day out. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, these day trips from Canberra offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a new adventure just a stone’s throw away from the capital city.
Sydney
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra to Sydney: 174 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a direct bus from Canberra to Sydney with Greyhound Australia or Murrays Coaches. Alternatively, you can catch a train from Canberra Railway Station to Sydney Central Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sydney
Exploring Sydney: Things to do
Sydney, the vibrant capital of New South Wales, is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Australia. Known for its iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, and bustling city life, Sydney offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the top attractions in Sydney is the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning architecture and hosts world-class performances. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Opera House or catch a show at one of its many theaters.
For nature lovers, a visit to Bondi Beach is a must. This famous stretch of golden sand is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing and soaking up the sun. The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sydney Harbour Bridge is another iconic landmark that offers visitors the chance to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and harbor. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, a harbor cruise is a great way to see the sights from the water.
The Royal Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring lush gardens, exotic plants, and stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or enjoy a picnic on the lawns.
Overall, Sydney’s dynamic blend of culture, nature, and urban attractions make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Australia’s largest city.
Blue Mountains
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra to Blue Mountains: Approximately 180 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a direct bus from Canberra to Katoomba, the main town in the Blue Mountains region. Alternatively, you can catch a train from Canberra to Sydney and then transfer to a train heading to Katoomba. The main bus station in Canberra is Jolimont Centre, and the train station is Canberra Railway Station.
Exploring Blue Mountains: Things to do
The Blue Mountains is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking views, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed area offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the top things to do in the Blue Mountains is to visit the iconic Three Sisters rock formation in Katoomba. These towering sandstone peaks offer a spectacular backdrop for photos and provide a glimpse into the region’s rich indigenous history.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Blue Mountains National Park offers a variety of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. From leisurely walks to challenging treks, there is something for everyone to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, don’t miss the opportunity to go abseiling or rock climbing in the Blue Mountains. The rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops provide the perfect setting for adrenaline-pumping activities that will give you a new perspective on the stunning landscape.
For a more relaxed experience, hop on the Scenic Railway or Skyway for a bird’s eye view of the Blue Mountains. These scenic rides offer panoramic vistas of the valleys, waterfalls, and lush forests that make this region so unique.
Whether you’re interested in nature, adventure, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Australian wilderness, the Blue Mountains is a destination that should not be missed. Plan your day trip from Canberra and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this iconic region.
South Coast
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra: Approximately 120 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a bus from Canberra to Batemans Bay or catch a train to Kiama. From there, you can rent a car to explore the South Coast.
Exploring South Coast: Things to do
The South Coast is a must-see destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. With its stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and lush national parks, this region offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top things to do on the South Coast is to visit Jervis Bay, known for having some of the whitest sands in the world at Hyams Beach. You can also explore the Booderee National Park, home to diverse wildlife and beautiful walking trails.
For those interested in water activities, the South Coast offers excellent opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, and whale watching during the migration season. You can also enjoy fresh seafood at the local eateries and visit charming coastal towns like Berry and Milton for a taste of the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Overall, the South Coast provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Snowy Mountains
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra: 200 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 3.5 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a Greyhound bus from Canberra to Cooma, then transfer to a train to reach the Snowy Mountains. The bus station in Canberra is located at Jolimont Centre, and the train station in Cooma is Cooma Station.
Exploring Snowy Mountains: Things to do
The Snowy Mountains, known for their stunning alpine landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, are a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. One of the top activities in the Snowy Mountains is hiking, with a variety of trails catering to all skill levels. The region is also popular for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, with several ski resorts offering world-class slopes and facilities.
For those interested in wildlife, the Snowy Mountains provide a chance to spot unique Australian animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, and wombats in their natural habitat. Birdwatching is another popular pastime, with the opportunity to see a diverse range of bird species in the area.
If you prefer water activities, the Snowy Mountains offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the pristine lakes and rivers that dot the region. Additionally, the Snowy Mountains are home to the iconic Snowy Hydro Scheme, a major engineering feat that provides a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s history and innovation.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply looking to unwind in a picturesque setting, the Snowy Mountains offer a diverse range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the Australian landscape.
Hunter Valley
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra to Hunter Valley: Approximately 180 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3.5 hours by car
- How to get there from Canberra: You can drive to Hunter Valley or take a bus from Canberra to Newcastle, then transfer to a local bus to reach Hunter Valley. The nearest train station is in Maitland.
Exploring Hunter Valley: Things to do
Hunter Valley is a renowned wine region in New South Wales, attracting visitors from near and far for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries. The region is a must-see destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the top things to do in Hunter Valley is wine tasting. With over 150 wineries in the area, you can indulge in tasting sessions and vineyard tours to sample some of Australia’s finest wines. From crisp whites to full-bodied reds, Hunter Valley offers a diverse range of varietals to suit every palate.
In addition to wine tasting, visitors can explore the scenic countryside on cycling tours or hot air balloon rides. The rolling hills and lush vineyards provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, making Hunter Valley a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
For those interested in local produce, the region also boasts gourmet food experiences. You can visit artisanal cheese shops, olive groves, and chocolate factories to savor the flavors of Hunter Valley. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at award-winning restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine paired with exquisite wines.
Overall, Hunter Valley is a must-see destination for its world-class wineries, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to unwind in a beautiful setting, Hunter Valley offers a memorable experience for all visitors.
Kangaroo Valley
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra: Approximately 150 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from Canberra to Kangaroo Valley, taking the M31 route. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Canberra to Nowra and then transfer to a local bus to Kangaroo Valley. There are no direct train services to Kangaroo Valley.
Exploring Kangaroo Valley: Things to do
Kangaroo Valley is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and tranquil atmosphere. One of the top activities to enjoy in Kangaroo Valley is hiking. The area offers a variety of scenic trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks.
For those interested in wildlife, Kangaroo Valley is home to a diverse range of native animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a plethora of bird species. Birdwatching is a popular pastime here, with many unique species to spot in the valley.
Visitors can also explore the charming town of Kangaroo Valley, which boasts quaint shops, cafes, and galleries. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local produce at the farmers’ markets or enjoy a picnic by the Kangaroo River.
For a more adventurous experience, you can go kayaking or canoeing along the river, or try your hand at fishing. The valley’s picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Overall, Kangaroo Valley offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Canberra. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or simply want to unwind in nature, Kangaroo Valley has something for everyone.
Jervis Bay
Travel tips
- Distance from Canberra to Jervis Bay: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a bus from Canberra to Nowra and then transfer to a local bus to Jervis Bay. Alternatively, you can take a train from Canberra to Bomaderry Station and then catch a bus to Jervis Bay.
Exploring Jervis Bay: Things to do
Jervis Bay is a must-see destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, Jervis Bay offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top activities in Jervis Bay is visiting Hyams Beach, known for having some of the whitest sands in the world. You can spend a relaxing day sunbathing, swimming, or picnicking on this stunning beach. For those interested in wildlife, a dolphin-watching cruise is a popular choice, allowing you to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Nature lovers can explore the Booderee National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including kangaroos, wallabies, and bird species. The park offers scenic walking trails, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. You can also visit the Cape St George Lighthouse for panoramic views of the bay and surrounding landscapes.
For adventure seekers, Jervis Bay offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The clear waters provide excellent visibility for exploring the underwater world and spotting colorful marine life. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching local fish species or join a deep-sea fishing excursion.
Overall, Jervis Bay’s natural beauty, outdoor activities, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for a day trip from Canberra. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach or adventure in the water, Jervis Bay has something for everyone to enjoy.
