Best Weekend Getaways from Sydney to Chase Autumn Colours in NSW
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Sydney this autumn?
There’s something magical about driving through New South Wales in autumn—the golden light, crisp air, and quiet roads winding through rolling hills dressed in colour. It’s the perfect excuse to hit pause on city life and taking a well-deserved break from city life amongst some of Australia's best natural beauty. From the misty Blue Mountains to the lush Southern Highlands, we've rounded up the best autumn escapes that showcase the true colours of NSW. So pack the boots, fill the thermos, and plan your next weekend's escape from Sydney with GoGet.
A photograph of the Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia, showcasing the towering sandstone peaks against a backdrop of the Jamison Valley.​
Blue Mountains
Few places in NSW put on an autumn display quite like the Blue Mountains. Just a 90-minute drive from the Sydney CBD, the Blue Mountains National Park transforms into a painter's palette of orange, red, and gold. Mount Wilson is one of the best spots to see autumn colours, home to Breenhold Gardens, where tree-lined avenues explode with seasonal hues. It's also a romantic getaway winner—think picnic blankets, mountain air, and some of the most photogenic views near Sydney.
Stop by the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah for a more curated foliage experience. The garden's cool-climate trees light up from April through May, with standout displays in the Brunet Garden and Plant Explorers Walk. This autumn, take a slow road trip through Blackheath, Leura, and Katoomba to spot waterfalls and boutique stays—t his is one of the best weekend road trips—or even a day trip from Sydney—to reconnect with nature and yourself.
The view of the garden in the St Jude's Bowral Anglican church in Bowral in the autumn
Southern Highlands
The Southern Highlands is where you'll find a slice of European countryside charm just a short trip from Sydney. Towns like Bowral, Berrima, and Mittagong come alive with autumn colours from March to May. Drive through winding roads framed by golden vineyards and stop at Corbett Gardens or the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens for a proper leafy experience.
This is wine country, so pop into a cellar door for a tasting or book a cosy B&B surrounded by maple trees— just be sure to enjoy that delicious wine responsibly—especially if you're renting a GoGet to get around. The Southern Highlands isn't just one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney; it's the kind of place that makes you consider packing up city life and going full tree-change.
Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Right in the heart of the city, the Royal Botanic Garden offers a peaceful autumn retreat without ever leaving Sydney. It's a fantastic place to see autumn foliage in action, especially the golden Ginkgo trees and fiery maples in the HSBC Oriental Garden. Pack a lunch and enjoy the vibrant leaves with Sydney Harbour as your backdrop.
This one's for the weekday warriors who want a slice of weekend escape magic but can't hit the road. The gardens are free, walkable, and always putting on a good show—especially during the autumn months. It's also a great spot for a romantic getaway stroll, so don't sleep on this city break option.
Hot air balloons soaring over the Pokolbin wine region in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia, during a sunrise in autumn
Hunter Valley
If wine and autumn colours are your thing, the Hunter Valley serves up both in spades. Northwest of Sydney and only a two-hour drive away, it's one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney. Rows of vines turn yellow and amber in the cooler months, making vineyard hopping a visual feast as well as a tasty one.
This region is also home to some of NSW's best wineries and luxury stays. Think sunset wine tastings, vineyard lunches, and hot air balloon rides over the stunning landscape.
Golden autumn sunset over calm waters at Port Stephens, New South Wales
Port Stephens
Want a weekend getaway with a mix of colour and coast? Port Stephens delivers. Just over two hours north of Sydney, this beach and nature haven is famous for dolphin and whale watching, but autumn adds a whole new vibe. Sand dunes, bushwalks, and sunset by the water? Yes, please.
Take a hike through Tomaree National Park for panoramic views, or cruise along the bay to spot wildlife. While you might not get the classic maple-leaf moment here, the coastline sparkles with a different kind of autumn magic—subtle, sun-drenched, and totally worth the drive from Sydney.
Central Coast
The Central Coast might fly under the radar, but this gem—just an hour’s drive from Sydney—packs serious weekend getaway potential. Bouddi National Park offers charming coastal walks that rival any road trip for views. And in autumn, the inland areas around Somersby and Matcham show off some surprisingly colourful foliage.
The coast is also home to quaint towns like Avoca and Terrigal, where beach meets bush. Whether you're chasing sunrise over the ocean or a chilled-out weekend of farmers markets and boutique cafés, this is one of the easiest weekend getaways from Sydney with something for everyone.
Newcastle
Newcastle is more than just a surf town—it's an autumn destination in its own right. Located north of Sydney, this growing city offers a mix of heritage, culture, and coastal charm. Weekend getaways here could include wine tasting in the nearby Hunter, a wander through its emerging art scene, or sunset views from the ANZAC Memorial Walk.
The drive from Sydney is a breeze, and you'll be rewarded with a delectable food scene and underrated beaches. It's a perfect weekend getaway for city folk who still want a buzz without the chaos of Sydney.
A serene autumn sunset along the shoreline of Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Jervis Bay & South Coast
If white sand beaches and autumn bushland sound like your dream combo, head south to Jervis Bay. It's one of the best weekend getaways from Sydney, especially if you're after a romantic getaway or a peaceful beach break. Hyams Beach is famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world, and the walking trails around Booderee National Park are simply stunning this time of year.
From dolphin spotting to bushwalking under changing leaves, Jervis Bay brings serious variety to the table. It's about three hours south of Sydney but worth every second of the trip.
Cattai National Park
Want nature without the traffic? Cattai National Park, northwest of Sydney near the Hawkesbury River, is a hidden autumn gem. At this time of year, the park is carpeted in leaves, especially around the campgrounds and riverside walking trails.
You'll find great picnic spots, colonial history, and even the chance to spot a few kangaroos hopping through the orange and yellow foliage. Cattai is the perfect no-fuss spot for a short weekend escape that feels miles away from the city but is easily reached in under 90 minutes.
Even better, GoGet lets you hire a car by the hour or day, so it’s ideal for those easy out-and-back trips.
Final Thoughts on Autumn Weekend Getaways From Sydney
Whether you're into sweeping valley views, autumn gardens, or quiet beach escapes, there's no shortage of weekend getaways from Sydney that showcase the best of NSW in autumn. From the dramatic escarpments of the Blue Mountains to the rolling vineyards of the Hunter Valley, this season is your cue to hit the road, soak up the autumn colours, and discover the best short trips just outside the city. Plan your next escape, and let the golden hour guide the way.
Hit the Road, Not Your Wallet with GoGet
Wherever you’re headed, GoGet carshare gives you the freedom to hit the road without the hassle. Book by the hour or day and only pay for what you use—autumn road trips just got easier.
