Set west of the sprawling metropolitan area of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a spectacular and majestic range with charming towns, world-class restaurants, and breathtaking natural beauty.
But the Blue Mountains area covers more than 11,400 square kilometres so choosing the right place to stay is super important.
That’s exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Blue Mountains.
This guide highlights the best areas to stay in Blue Mountain. It lists the must-see attractions in the five best neighbourhoods while also recommending the best Blue Mountains accommodation in each.
So whether you want to get back to nature, party all night long, or indulge in delicious cuisine, we’ve got all the info you need – and more!
Let’s get right to it – here are the best neighbourhoods to stay in Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia.
- Where to Stay in Blue Mountains
- Blue Mountains Neighbourhood Guide
- Blue Mountains’ 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- #1 Katoomba – Where to Stay in Blue Mountains for Your First Time
- #2 Katoomba – Where to Stay in Blue Mountains on a Budget
- #3 Leura – Where to Stay in Blue Mountains for Nightlife
- #4 Wentworth Falls – Coolest Place to Stay in Blue Mountains
- #5 Mount Victoria – Where to Stay in Blue Mountains for families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Blue Mountains
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Blue Mountains
If you’re backpacking Australia and looking for a real adventure and unique experience, then checking out the Blue Mountains will be the right spot for you!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Blue Mountains.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Best Airbnb in Blue Mountains: The place with stunning views
Start every morning in awe as your bask over the rolling valleys of the Blue Mountains. Combine that with a prime location a short walk from the city centre and you’ll see why this is our pick for first-timers.
Best Hotel in Blue Mountains: Hotel Mountain Heritage Blue Mountains
The Hotel Mountain Heritage is our pick for the best hotel in Blue Mountains because of its great location. Set in lively Katoomba, this hotel offers cosy rooms with modern features. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a beauty centre, swimming pool, a terrace and a bar.
Best Hostel in Blue Mountains: Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel
This is one of the best hostels in Blue Mountains. It is ideally located in Katoomba and caters to all types of travellers because it offers a range of dormitory, private and family-style rooms. This hostel also boasts a large communal area, a spacious kitchen, and plenty of games, TV/movies and fun.
Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Katoomba
Katoomba is, without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Blue Mountains. The largest and most visited town in the region, Katoomba is home to a great variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as bars, shops and bistros.
Katoomba
Katoomba also gets our vote for the best neighbourhood in Blue Mountains to stay in if you’re on a budget. Tucked throughout this mountain town is a great selection of backpacker hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses that will suit travellers of all styles, ages and budgets.
Leura
Nestled right next to Katoomba is the town of Leura. This small and picturesque village is best known for its unique boutiques, casual cafes and world-class restaurants.
Wentworth Falls
Wentworth Falls is a small village located west of Leura. It sits in close proximity to nature and the incredible Blue Mountains National Park, while also treating visitors to a variety of great restaurants and charming bars.
Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria is the westernmost town in the Blue Mountains. It is the highest point in the region and boasts many lovely walks and climbs, as well as stunning panoramic views.
The Blue Mountains are one of the most famous and stunning mountain ranges in Australia. Although not particularly tall, this UNESCO World Heritage Area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, cultural attractions, and relaxed way of life.
The mountain range covers an incredible area of nearly 12,000 square kilometres. It’s home to a handful of towns and cities that each offer something unique to visitors. To help you make the most of your trip, this guide will highlight the “can’t miss” attractions and activities in the best areas to stay in Blue Mountains.
Katoomba is the largest and most visited city in Blue Mountains. It’s home to a number of noteworthy attractions, like Echo Point and the thrilling Scenic World, and is known for its relaxed and creative atmosphere. You’ll find a vast array of restaurants and cafes, as well as some of the best Blue Mountains accommodation.
Set west of Katoomba is Leura. A quaint and charming town, Leura has delicious food and funky bars. Here you can enjoy a day in nature followed by a good night out.
Continue heading west from here and you’ll arrive in Wentworth Falls. One of the coolest places to stay in Blue Mountains, Wentworth Falls seamlessly combines stunning nature and outdoor adventures with incredible restaurants and cosy cafes.
And finally, set to the north of Katoomba is Mount Victoria. This is our pick for where to stay in Blue Mountains with kids because it allows for easy access to unforgettable nature without taking away too many of those creature comforts. Here you’ll find museums and shops, as well as views, hikes and beyond.
Still not sure where to stay in Blue Mountains? Don’t worry because we’ve got you covered.
Blue Mountains’ 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the best places to stay in Blue Mountains.
Katoomba is, without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Blue Mountains. The largest and most visited town in the region, Katoomba is home to a great variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as bars, shops and bistros. Because there is so much to see and do, Katoomba is our recommendation for where to stay in Blue Mountains for your first time.
This charming mountain town is also well known for its laid-back, relaxed and creative atmosphere. The area has been home to large artist and hippie populations for decades and this is evident in the design and décor throughout the city. So, when taking a stroll along the main street be sure to look up to take in the incredible art deco architecture.
Things to See and Do in Katoomba
– Catch a flick at The Edge Cinema.
– Dine on rich Australian fare at Avalon.
– Enjoy a range of beers, ciders and wines at the atmospheric Old City Bank Bar.
– Get your adrenaline pumping by canyoning, abseiling and rock climbing in the Blue Mountains.
– Lace up our boots and head out for a bushwalk to the Ruined Castle or nearby Mt Solitary.
– Sip a cappuccino at the Common Ground café.
– Take in the incredible views from Echo Point Lookout.
– Ride the world’s steepest incline railway while enjoying panoramic views of the region at Scenic World.
Best Airbnb in Katoomba: The place with stunning views
Start every morning in awe as your bask over the rolling valleys of the Blue Mountains. Combine that with a prime location a short walk from the city centre and you’ll see why this is our pick for first-timers.
Best Hostel in Katoomba: Blue Mountains YHA
This hostel is our top pick for where to stay in Blue Mountains for one night. It provides guests with a clean and cosy room and access to a great kitchen, and it is located at the heart of the adventure capital of NSW. There are also pool tables, games and lots of movies to enjoy.
Best Hotel in Katoomba: Hotel Mountain Heritage Blue Mountains
The Hotel Mountain Heritage is our pick for where to stay in Blue Mountains for your first time. Set in lively Katoomba, this hotel offers cosy rooms with modern features. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a beauty centre, swimming pool, a terrace and a bar.
Best Hotel in Katoomba: Palais Royale
Because of its great location, large rooms, and comfortable beds, this is one of our favourite hotels in Katoomba. This hotel provides guests with a variety of excellent features, including a sauna, a jacuzzi and free wifi. They also offer a delicious and satisfying breakfast each morning.
We’ve tested countless packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag.
Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Learn More Now!Katoomba also gets our vote for the best neighbourhood in Blue Mountains to stay in if you’re on a budget. Tucked throughout this mountain town is a great selection of backpacker hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses that will suit travellers of all styles, ages and budgets.
Keen to get back to nature? Katoomba is the best area to stay in Blue Mountains for bushwalking. From here, you can head off in all directions exploring the trails and paths that lead to scenic lookouts and secret waterfalls.
Things to See and Do in Katoomba
– Marvel at the views of the Three Sisters rock formations.
– Climb the 888 steps of the Giant Stairway through the jungle.
– Experience the vistas at Cahill’s Lookout.
– Catch a glimpse of the Katoomba Falls.
– Take a Street Art Walk through Katoomba.
– Visit the Eagle Hawk Lookout for incredible views without all the tourists.
– Feast on a kebab at Gazi Chargrill.
– Eat Lebanese and Middle Eastern food at Cedar.
– Excite your sense at Tamarin Restaurant.
Best Airbnb in Katoomba: Live the Aussie dream with your own Bush Cabin!
Enjoy one of New South Wales’s most stunning bush regions like a true blue Aussie. With privacy, a natural setting, and modern fittings, this place gives a lot of bang for your buck.
Best Hotel in Katoomba: Hotel Blue Katoomba
Located at the heart of Katoomba, this three-star hotel is close to the area’s most popular tourist attractions. It is close to Scenic World and is a convenient base for exploring Leura and nearby Mount Vic. This hotel has spacious rooms with private bathrooms, flat screen TVs and other essential amenities.
Best Hotel in Katoomba: Carrington Hotel
The Carrington Hotel offers four-star luxury at a fraction of the price. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms outfitted with cable/satellite channels as well as a refrigerator and coffee/tea supplies. This property also boasts an in-house spa, and a restaurant, as well as a library, coffee bar, and lounge to relax in.
Best Hostel in Katoomba: Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel
This is the best hostel in Blue Mountains. It is ideally located in Katoomba and caters to all types of travellers because it offers a range of dormitory, private and family-style rooms. This hostel also boasts a large communal area, a spacious kitchen, and plenty of games, TV/movies and fun.
Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Nestled right next to Katoomba is the town of Leura. This small and picturesque village is best known for its unique boutiques, casual cafes and world-class restaurants.
The town is one of the best places in Blue Mountains to stay for outdoor adventurers because it sits surrounded by natural wonders. From your base in Leura, you can enjoy bare sandstone landscapes, take in spectacular views and explore dense eucalyptus forest.
But if it’s nightlife you’re looking for, this is the best neighbourhood to stay in Blue Mountains. Tucked throughout this small village and in nearby Katoomba are a good selection of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal, drink a few pints, and enjoy an unforgettable night out in Blue Mountains.
Things to See and Do in Leura
– Enjoy the views from the Sublime Point Lookout.
– Wander to the lovely and tranquil Leura Cascades.
– Snap the perfect pic for the ‘gram at Gordon Falls Lookout.
– Get off the beaten path and visit the Fortress Rock.
– Don’t miss the Alexandra Hotel Leura, a good old-fashioned pub with a modern twist.
– Feast on delicious homemade pizzas at Station Bar + Woodfired Pizza.
– Choose from a wide variety of local and international beers at the Harp and Fiddle.
– Sample rare and vintage beers, wines and spirits at the Leura Cellars.
– Eat tasty local dishes at Leura Gourmet.
Best Guesthouse in Leura: No14
This warm and friendly guesthouse is located in nearby Katoomba. It offers shared and private rooms that are ideal for travellers of all styles and budgets. Guests of this house can enjoy recently renovated bathrooms, a brand new kitchen, and a tranquil atmosphere. This hostel also offers easy access to restaurants, shops and the Blue Mountains’ natural wonders.
Best Hotel in Leura: Leisure Inn Spires
The Leisure Inn Spires is our top recommendation for where to stay in Blue Mountains for nightlife. This four-star hotel is in an excellent location allowing for easy access to popular restaurants, bars and attractions. This modern property is comprised of spacious apartments that are loaded with contemporary features.
Best Airbnb in Leura: Lovingly restored chac in a great spot
While still retaining it ‘derilique’ vibe on the outside, the interior has been lovingly restored and converted into a great studio apartment. You’ll find yourself no more than a few minutes walk from the town, and you’ll have no trouble getting around to explore further affield
Lovingly restored chac in a great spot is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Bed & Breakfast in Leura: Broomelea Bed & Breakfast
The Broomelea Bed & Breakfast is an exquisite 4.5-star property located in Leura. It is close to popular tourist attractions and is a quick stroll from great bars, restaurants and cafes. This cosy B&B comes complete with a number of amenities, like a library and tasty breakfast.
Broomelea Bed & Breakfast is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Buy an eSIM!Wentworth Falls is a small village located west of Leura. It sits in close proximity to nature and the incredible Blue Mountains National Park, one of Australia’s best-known national parks, while also treating visitors to a variety of great restaurants and charming bars. Because it manages to seamlessly combine the town with nature, Wentworth Falls is one of the coolest places to stay in Blue Mountains.
If you love to eat, this is the best neighbourhood to stay in Blue Mountains because it is packed with mouthwatering options. Whether you’re craving typical Australian, intriguing Indian, or fresh and delicious vegetarian, Wentworth Falls is packed with tantalizing and tasty options for you!
Things to See and Do in Wentworth Falls
– Explore the amazing Blue Mountains National Park.
– See Wentworth Falls, a majestic three-tiered waterfall that measures 187m tall.
– Enjoy a romantic date on the shores of Wentworth Falls Lake.
– Indulge in incredible local fare at Il Postinos.
– Satisfy your sweet tooth at The Blue Mist Café.
– Feast on great food and excellent views at The Conservation Hut.
– Grab a few pints and play a round of pool at The Grand View Hotel.
– Excite your senses by sampling a variety of sweet and savoury pies at Mountain High Pies.
– Dine on fresh and delicious vegetarian and vegan food at Fed.
Best Airbnb in Wentworth Falls: Adorable treetop cabin!
Poking out from the eucalyptus groves and offering views of the valleys if you peek between the branches. This property might be lacking in space, but it more than makes up for it with spaes of character.
Best Hotel in Wentworth Falls: Grand View Hotel
Thanks to its clean rooms, comfortable beds and delicious foods, this is one of our favourite hotels in Blue Mountains. It offers a range of facilities to guests, including a games room, a garden and a children’s play area. There’s also plenty to see and do within walking distance.
Best Motel in Wentworth Falls: Rest Easy Motel
The Rest Easy Motel is conveniently located in Wentworth Falls. It is a short drive to Leura and Katoomba and is close to the National Park, Scenic World and a great selection of restaurants. Rooms at this motel come complete with cable/satellite channel and coffee machines. There’s also a shopping mall, billiards and games room.
Rest Easy Motel is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Guesthouse in Wentworth Falls: Silvermere Guesthouse
The Silvermere Guesthouse wins our vote for where to stay in Blue Mountains for nightlife because of its excellent location and accommodations. This guesthouse provides individually decorated rooms that are equipped with luxurious spa baths and a variety of amenities. There is a delicious restaurant on-site and plenty of other options nearby.
Silvermere Guesthouse is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Mount Victoria is the westernmost town in the Blue Mountains. It is the highest point in the region and boasts many lovely walks and climbs, as well as stunning panoramic views.
This town is our pick for where to stay in Blue Mountains with kids because there’s a great variety of things to do. This small village boasts everything from outdoor adventures and nature expeditions to toy stores, heritage museums, cafes and shops. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find something entertaining and exciting to do in charming Mount Victoria.
Things to See and Do in Mount Victoria
– Delve deep into history at the Mount Victoria & District Historical Society Museum.
– Enjoy a night at the movies at the iconic Mount Vic Flicks.
– Browse a collection of antiques and toys at Trains, Planes & Automobiles.
– Dine on delicious local delicacies at Petalura.
– Sip on a cappuccino and enjoy a slice of pie at Piccolo.
– Shop for quirky gifts and souvenirs at Mount Vic and Me.
– Climb to the Mount York Lookout and enjoy the breathtaking views.
– Take in the sounds and scenery of the mountains as you hike to Sunset Rock Lookout.
Best Cabins in Mount Victoria: Cedar Lodge Cabins
The Cedar Lodge Cabins are our pick for where to stay in Blue Mountains for families because of its comfortable and spacious rooms. This property boasts a shopping mall, laundry facilities and a games room. It also allows for easy access to the area’s most popular tourist attractions and landmarks.
Best Hotel in Mount Victoria: Closeburn House
This charming property is conveniently located in Mount Victoria. It is close to Mount Piddington and there are plenty of shops, eateries and bistros nearby. This hotel has eight rooms that are outfitted with modern and essential amenities.
Best Airbnb in Mount Victoria: Home on top a mountain
This two-story detached house really has an Aussie family home vibe too it. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel at ease as soon as you walk in. It’s got a huge garden for activities, stunning views, and is only a short drive from, well pretty much everything.
Home on top a mountain is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Villas in Mount Victoria: Bank House Mount Victoria
Bank House Victoria is a charming and unique property in the Blue Mountains. It is comprised of three well-appointed villas, which are each stocked with a range of essential amenities. Guests can enjoy a terrace, a garden and free wifi. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and attractions just a few minutes away.
Bank House Mount Victoria is one of our favourites in Blue Mountains but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Blue Mountains
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Blue Mountains and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Blue Mountains
World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.
They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.
Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Blue Mountains
Australia’s Blue Mountains are an excellent travel destination that boasts outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a whole host of cute and charming towns to explore. Whether you want to get your heart pumping, snap that perfect pic for the gram, or indulge in exquisite local cuisine, the Blue Mountains has exactly what you’re looking for – and so much more!
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best areas to stay in Blue Mountains. If you’re still not sure which Blue Mountains neighbourhood is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourites.
Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel is our favourite hostel in Blue Mountains because of its range of room options, great amenities and excellent location.
Our pick for the best hotel in Blue Mountains is Hotel Mountain Heritage Blue Mountains because it has cosy rooms, modern features and a fantastic selection of facilities.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
