Katoomba City Guide

Mix of casual cafes, pubs, and some fine dining. International food like Thai, Indian, and Italian is available. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Most places close by 9-10 PM.

Nightlife is low-key, mostly pubs with occasional live music. No clubs or vibrant night scene.

Strong local coffee scene with independent cafes and specialty brews.

Tipping is not required but appreciated for good service. 5-10% tip in restaurants is common but optional.

Buy SIM cards at Woolworths, Coles, or phone stores like Telstra, Optus, Vodafone. Telstra covers the Blue Mountains best. Passport required for registration.

Town is generally clean, especially tourist areas. Good waste and recycling services.

Very limited 24/7 services. No 24/7 pharmacies or clinics. Some petrol stations open all night for basics.

Woolworths and Coles on Katoomba Street are main supermarkets. They stock basic international items. Open roughly 7 AM to 10 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays.

Card payments work at most cafes, shops, and restaurants. Cash is rarely needed for daily use.

ATMs are along Katoomba Street at Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and ANZ. Using other banks' ATMs often has a fee of AUD $2-$3.

Local schools teach mainly in English, including Katoomba High School and Public School. No international schools in town; nearest are in Sydney.

Small, growing digital nomad scene blending with creative locals. No dedicated nomad events or co-living.

Excellent access to green spaces and trails in the Blue Mountains National Park.

Good running routes in town and national park, though some trails can be tough. Watch for bushfire smoke in summer.

Gyms offer various fitness options including 24/7 access at Anytime Fitness.

Tennis courts at Katoomba Sports & Aquatic Centre, bookings required.

Padel courts uncommon in Katoomba.

Several studios offer drop-in yoga classes with English-speaking instructors.

Limited options, some local Karate and Taekwondo classes available.

No ski resorts nearby; nearest are 5-6 hours away in the Snowy Mountains.

Limited water sports; some kayaking or paddleboarding possible nearby but rentals are rare.

No surfing; nearest surf spots are on the coast, 1.5-2 hours away.

No diving spots nearby; found on the NSW coast.

Katoomba Hospital provides emergency care. Several GPs and pharmacies are available with English-speaking staff. Public healthcare is good, private options offer more choice.

Tap water meets Australian standards and is safe to drink.

Playgrounds at Katoomba Falls Reserve and near main street. Kid-friendly cafes with high chairs. Family attractions include Scenic World and Blue Mountains Cultural Centre.

Welcoming and inclusive overall, with strong legal protections. No specific venues but safe to be out.

Some pet-friendly accommodation and cafes. Off-leash dog parks and vet services available.