Newcastle Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Newcastle
Newcastle
Newcastle
Newcastle
Newcastle which includes waves and surfing
Soak up the history of one of Australia’s oldest cities, hit the beach, or head out into the countryside to spot local wildlife or explore wineries.

Newcastle has been a portcity for over two hundred years. It exports huge amounts of coal, and was oncea leading industrial center. Today its economy is diverse and its arts scene,on the rise. The central city is home to heritage buildings and museums. Thereare miles of superb uncrowded surf beaches on its doorstep, and to the west isthe Hunter Valley, one of Australia's premier wine-growing and gourmet foodregions.

History buffs will enjoygazing at Newcastle's heritage factories and colonial buildings. Check outNewcastle Cathedral for a look at one of its oldest and most significant. Climbthe stairs to the top to get a great view of the city. To learn about theconvict-miners who fist occupied the area, visit the Newcastle Museum. Theconvict heritage of the city may be responsible for the irreverent, fun-lovingattitude of the locals.

Visit the Lock-Up CulturalCentre to explore a 19th-century jail complete with padded cell and exerciseyard. Inside you’ll see exhibitions by local artists. For more art, drop by theNewcastle Gallery. There are some excellent Australian works as well as regularexhibitions.

Spend a few hours by theocean at Foreshore Park. There are playgrounds for kids and also picnic areas.Walk the breakwater and climb Nobby’s Head for excellent views of the city andcoastline. When it’s time to cool off, take a swim at one of the many beaches.Try Nobby’s Beach for calmer surf or Dudley Beach for an uncrowded stretch withgood waves. Visit the Newcastle or Merewether Ocean Baths for a saltwater fixwithout the waves.

Drive 5 miles (8 kilometers)from town to Blackbutt Reserve. It’s a 450-acre (182 hectare) bush reserve with hiking trails ofvarying difficulty, and animal exhibits including wallabies, koalas and nativebirds.

Foodies and wine loversshould take the time to explore the charming towns and grape-growing areas ofthe Hunter Valley. There are dozens of wineries with cellar-door tastings, andplenty of superb local cafés and restaurants serving up gourmet treats to go withthe local wines.

Where to stay in Newcastle

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Merewether

Unique features of Merewether include the beaches and bars. Make a stop by Merewether Beach or Merewether Ocean Baths while you're exploring the area.

Merewether
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Caves Beach

Some popular features of Caves Beach include its beaches and restaurants. If you're in the mood to explore farther, Lake Macquarie or Belmont Golf Course are worth checking out in the surrounding nearby area.

Caves Beach
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Swansea

While there might not be top attractions in Swansea, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Lake Macquarie and Belmont Golf Course.

Swansea
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Charlestown

Shopping, restaurants and spas are just a few things travellers enjoy about Charlestown. Check out Charlestown Square or Twin Creeks Reserve while you're exploring the area.

Charlestown
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Toronto

Lake views, cafes and shopping highlight some of the notable features of Toronto. Make a stop by Lake Macquarie while you're exploring.

Toronto
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Belmont

Unique features of Belmont include the lake views and shopping. Make a stop by Blacksmiths Beach or Lake Macquarie while you're exploring the area.

Belmont
Little National Hotel Newcastle
Little National Hotel Newcastle
4 out of 5
44 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle, NSW
The price is £72 per night from 20 Jul to 21 Jul
£72
20 Jul - 21 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a 24-hour fitness centre. Our guests praise the helpful ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (419 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay. Beautiful hotel. Modern with all amenities you would ever need. Will stay again!"

Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025

Little National Hotel Newcastle
Holiday Inn Express Newcastle by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Newcastle by IHG
4.5 out of 5
514 King Street, Newcastle West, NSW
The price is £80 per night from 8 Jul to 9 Jul
£80
8 Jul - 9 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour fitness centre. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,007 reviews)
"just what was required for a one night stopover"

Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025

Holiday Inn Express Newcastle by IHG
Rydges Newcastle
Rydges Newcastle
4.5 out of 5
Wharf Rd & Merewether St, Newcastle, NSW
The price is £102 per night from 13 Jul to 14 Jul
£102
13 Jul - 14 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,006 reviews)
"Very nice"

Reviewed on 19 Jun 2025

Rydges Newcastle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Jesmond Executive Villas
Jesmond Executive Villas
4 out of 5
189 Newcastle Road, Jesmond, NSW
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Newcastle Beach and Allowah ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,841 reviews)
"Some road works at the moment but when finished it will be good"

Reviewed on 6 Jun 2025

Jesmond Executive Villas
Honeysuckle Executive Apartments
Honeysuckle Executive Apartments
4 out of 5
Corner of Wright Lane and, Settlement Lane, Newcastle, NSW
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a health club and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Newcastle Beach and ...
7.4/10 Good! (803 reviews)
"Great location and plenty of restaurants very close clean and comfortable"

Reviewed on 14 Jun 2025

Honeysuckle Executive Apartments
Terminus Apartment Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
Terminus Apartment Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
4 out of 5
111 Scott St, Newcastle, NSW
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Newcastle. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking (surcharge) and a business centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (951 reviews)
"Terminus Apartment Hotel was perfect for our one night stay. The staff at reception were very friendly and accommodating. It was comfortable, quiet and in a good location."

Reviewed on 24 Apr 2025

Terminus Apartment Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Newcastle