Nobbys Head located at the entrance to Newcastle Harbour, Australia

Things to do in  Newcastle

History on holiday

Newcastle’s historic architecture offers an interesting contrast to its sandy beaches and deep blue waters. The ruddy sandstone of the Gothic Revival Christ Church Cathedral looks like it would be more at home in the English countryside, but instead, it’s surrounded by palm trees and eucalyptus that shade you from the hot Australian sun. This coastal city offers plenty of things to do, from lounging on long beaches and swimming in the clear waters of Bogey Hole to visiting the tunnels of historic Fort Scratchley.

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Top 1 attractions in Newcastle

#1

Fighter World

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With everything from a classic F-111 to the first Australian-built Vampire F-30 fighter, Fighter World boasts an impressive collection of Australian fighter jets. The aviation museum, located on the Royal Australian Air Force Base in Williamtown, offers the chance to peek behind the scenes and climb into the cockpits.More
Tours & Tickets

Explore Newcastle by interest

Top activities in Newcastle

Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise

Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise

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340
From
$26.28
Port Stephens: Dolphin Watch Eco Adventure

Port Stephens: Dolphin Watch Eco Adventure

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41
From
$26.28
Newcastle Dark Stories True Crime Tour

Newcastle Dark Stories True Crime Tour

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186
From
$21.27
Hunter Coastal Adventure Tour by Boat from Newcastle

Hunter Coastal Adventure Tour by Boat from Newcastle

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84
From
$78.21
Hunter Valley Wine Tour ex Hunter Valley - Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate, Distillery

Hunter Valley Wine Tour ex Hunter Valley - Lunch, Cheese, Chocolate, Distillery

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77
From
$155.80
Family Pass: Fighter World Museum Admission Ticket

Family Pass: Fighter World Museum Admission Ticket

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15
From
$28.16
per group
Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle

Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle

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144
From
$78.21
General Admission Fighter World Museum

General Admission Fighter World Museum

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36
From
$12.51
Hop Hunter Brewery Tour - Full Day

Hop Hunter Brewery Tour - Full Day

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8
From
$140.79
Self Guided Newcastle Scavenger Hunt: Between River and Sea

Self Guided Newcastle Scavenger Hunt: Between River and Sea

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6
From
$12.31
Cael's Gate Wine and Chocolate Tasting in Broke

Cael's Gate Wine and Chocolate Tasting in Broke

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$15.64
Animal Lovers Boutique Tour

Animal Lovers Boutique Tour

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1
From
$178.33
30-Minute Distillery Guided Tour in Carrington
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

30-Minute Distillery Guided Tour in Carrington

From
$12.51
Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL)

Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL)

From
$103.36
Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour from Newcastle

Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour from Newcastle

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33
From
$140.79
Private Transfer from Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney City Hotels

Private Transfer from Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney City Hotels

From
$313.23
Half Day Wine Tour with Light Lunch at Hunter Valley

Half Day Wine Tour with Light Lunch at Hunter Valley

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5
From
$103.24
Private full-day wine tour in the Hunter Valley

Private full-day wine tour in the Hunter Valley

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22
From
$309.73
per group
Private Surf Lesson in Caves Beach

Private Surf Lesson in Caves Beach

From
$71.96
Newcastle to Newcastle Airport (NTL) - Departure Private Transfer

Newcastle to Newcastle Airport (NTL) - Departure Private Transfer

From
$91.88
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All about Newcastle

When to visit

The best time to visit Newcastle depends on what you want to do. It’s a favorite spot for surfers—beginners can start with the gentler break at Nobbys or Stockton Beach, while the pros challenge themselves on the big waves at Merewether Beach. Surfing in Newcastle is best during the late fall and winter months, particularly in May. Late fall also means mild temperatures and the end of the rainy season, so it’s a good time for exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Getting around

The City of Newcastle is fairly walkable, with plenty of restaurants clustered around Pacific Park and lots of walking trails along the coastline. If you’re heading outside the city, the Newcastle Transport service is decent, with a network of buses and light rail that connect the city to the suburbs. A car can be useful for day trips along the coast or for visiting Hunter Wetlands National Park or Sugarloaf State Conservation Area.

Traveler tips

Bogey Hole is at the southern end of Newcastle Beach. This tidal swimming pool is a favorite spot among locals and offers a safe place to paddle while watching big waves crash on the rocks. The water is constantly being refreshed, so it stays cool, clean, and clear, and it’s a perfect spot to cool down after a hike or to let the kids play in the sheltered water.

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People Also Ask

Is Newcastle worth visiting?

Yes—Newcastle is a city with a village vibe and has plenty to see and do. Whether you just want to relax in the sun, wander through the trails of the nearby parks, or soak up some history at the local museums, this coastal gem is well worth a visit.

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How many days do I need in Newcastle?

Newcastle is an ideal weekend getaway, but you could easily extend your trip, especially if you’re hoping to learn to surf or improve your existing skills. Several surf schools offer everything from private lessons to week-long intensive courses for more advanced surfers.

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Is Newcastle a friendly city?

Yes—Australians are famously friendly and Newcastle is a chill little city. Its status as a popular tourist town has grown over the years but it has retained its small-town charm that’s sure to make you feel right at home.

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How long is the train from Sydney to Newcastle?

It takes about 3 hours to get to Newcastle from Sydney via train. Several regional trains take you to the outskirts of the city and run daily. After catching the 33, 223, or T9 train from central Sydney, take a local bus or train to get into Newcastle proper.

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Is Newcastle a good holiday destination?

Yes—with soft beaches, warm water, and pretty surroundings, Newcastle is an ideal holiday spot for visitors to New South Wales. It’s well connected to the other cities in the region and there are plenty of options for entertainment, no matter your age or interests.

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What is the main shopping street in Newcastle?

Head northeast on Darby Street, beginning where it intersects with Bull Street and you’ll find one of the best spots in the city to grab a bite to eat or check out the local boutiques. It’s a lively little neighborhood and a great spot for a stroll.

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