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Sydney’s got no shortage of things to see and do, but sometimes it’s nice to slow down and explore what’s just beyond the city. Luckily, there are plenty of charming small towns only a few hours’ drive away — perfect for a weekend road trip or a quick change of scenery.
For students and young travellers, these nearby escapes offer a great way to unwind, discover hidden gems, and see another side of New South Wales without venturing too far from Sydney.
Whether you’re chasing a coastal breeze, a bit of country charm, or a culture-packed weekend, you’ll find plenty of memorable experiences just a short drive away.
Here’s a list of 6 of the best small towns to visit, each with its own unique character, scenery, and local flavour — all close enough for an easy Sydney getaway.
Image from visitNSW
Berry is one of the best NSW towns to visit if you love food, boutique shops, and heritage charm.
Set in the Shoalhaven region on the NSW South Coast, about a two-hour drive from Sydney, this country town is famed for cosy cafés and artisan-filled high street.
It also makes a great base for exploring nearby beaches and national park trails.
Don’t miss the Berry Donut Van, a local favourite serving hot cinnamon donuts since the 1960s. If you’re driving from Sydney, try to arrive early in the day to beat the weekend crowds!
Bellingen is a creative Mid North Coast town along the Waterfall Way, home to galleries, live music, and boutique shops framed by rainforest-covered ranges.
It’s close to Dorrigo National Park for boardwalks and waterfalls, with Cathedral Rock National Park further west near Ebor — both perfect for day trips.
Break up your drive with a coastal stop at Coffs Harbour, then cool off at the Promised Land/Never Never River swimming holes (always check local advice and closures). Remember to pack sturdy shoes for Dorrigo’s trails!
Image from TripAdvisor
Mudgee is one of the best towns in NSW for cellar doors, farm-to-table dining, and heritage streetscapes.
It’s roughly a 3.5–4 hour drive from Sydney (about 260–300 km), making it a classic weekend road trip with plenty to explore even if wine isn’t your thing.
Beyond wine, explore the art galleries, heritage sites, and non-alcoholic food experiences. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the scenery is most beautiful.
Image from Port Fairy Folk Festival
Port Fairy blends historic charm with a stunning coastline, making it one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Australia.
Located at the end of the Great Ocean Road (around a 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne), it’s a must-visit stop on your Victoria trip.
Time your trip for the Port Fairy Folk Festival, one of the state’s biggest music events. Take a walk along the Moyne River, and explore Griffiths Island to see the lighthouse and resident shearwater colony.
Yamba, on the northern coast of New South Wales, is loved for its relaxed atmosphere, surf culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Around 7 hours’ drive from Sydney or 3.5 hours from Brisbane, it’s perfect for a coastal road trip.
With the Clarence River meeting the Pacific Ocean here, Yamba offers the perfect blend of river and ocean adventures.
Climb up to the Yamba Lighthouse for sweeping coastal views. Perfect for a summer weekend getaway or a stopover between Sydney and Brisbane. Be sure to try freshly caught prawns from the local trawlers at the marina!
Image from Wikipedia
Just a 30-minute drive from Adelaide, Hahndorf is the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia (established in 1839).
This charming town combines heritage architecture, tree-lined streets, and cultural experiences, making it one of South Australia’s most unique spots.
Stroll along the high street to soak up the old-world German culture mixed with modern flair. Autumn is especially beautiful when the trees turn shades of red and gold. And don’t miss out on the authentic German fare or a winery visit in the Adelaide Hills.
Exploring country towns and seaside villages is one of the best ways to see another side of Australia. And planning these trips early helps make the journey even smoother!
Here are some simple travel tips to help you get the most out of your road trip or day trip:
Accommodation options are limited and fill up quickly. Book early, especially during weekends, festivals, and public holidays.
Weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, comfortable shoes, and a light rain jacket.
Locals often know the best hidden spots. Strike up a conversation to get recommendations you won’t find online.
Balance your travels with both vibrant cities and quiet towns. This way, you can enjoy the energy of Sydney or Melbourne while still relaxing in a country setting.
Distances between towns can be longer than expected. Take regular breaks, fuel up when you can, and don’t rush the drive.
If you’re a student living in Sydney, Melbourne, or another big city, small-town trips are a refreshing way to escapefrom the stress of assignments and city crowds.
They’re affordable, easy to reach on a weekend, and packed with activities that don’t cost much.
From the foodie haven of Berry to the seaside charm of Yamba and the cultural heritage of Hahndorf, each town offers a different slice of Australia.
Best of all, these trips give you the chance to meet locals, see more of the country, and recharge before heading back to your studies.
Balancing studies, weekend road trips, and a social life isn’t easy, but the right home base makes all the difference.
At Y Suites on Margaret, you’ll have the support you need to focus on your studies while still having the freedom to travel and explore.
What’s more? Our all-inclusive rent covers:
✅ Premium, fully furnished student rooms and shared apartments, inclusive of Wi-Fi and utilities
✅ Full access to various common areas for socialising, studying, exercising, playing, and resting
✅ The opportunity to connect with like-minded students from prestigious universities through our community events
✅ Excellent security measures that ensure your personal safety
✅ Hassle-free customer service managed by our attentive and well-trained staff]
Life as a student can be busy, but with the right place to call home, you can enjoy both city life and weekend escapes without stress.
If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, check out our guide to the 6 Best Places for a Solo Trip: Top Spots for Uni Students Travelling Alone in Australia!
Ready to make student living stress-free?
Book an on-site tour with us!
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