Things To Do
in Bowral

Bowral is a charming town located in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it boasts beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The town is also famous for its proximity to various wineries and natural attractions.

Bowral offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for visitors of all ages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Corbett Gardens, where you can enjoy the seasonal blooms and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame to learn about the history of cricket in Australia.

evening
:

Dine at the popular Biota Dining, known for its exquisite Australian cuisine made from local ingredients.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Bowral Art Gallery to appreciate local art and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint shops and cafes on Bowral's main street.

evening
:

Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries, such as Centennial Vineyards, followed by a casual dinner at a nearby bistro.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$4
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$20
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Room per Night$120
🥖Bakery Item$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Rich cultural and historical attractions
  • Excellent food and wine scene
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Some areas may require a car for accessibility

Places to Visit in Bowral

Visit one of these nice places.

Corbett Gardens

A stunning garden filled with seasonal flowers, perfect for capturing vibrant photos.

Centennial Vineyards

Beautiful vineyard landscapes ideal for scenic shots, especially during sunset.

Bowral's Historic Buildings

The town features charming colonial architecture that makes for great historical photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bowral

Bowral offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich agricultural surroundings and local produce, making it a food lover's paradise.

Bowral Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream, a must-try classic.

Must-Try!

Meat Pie

A savory pie filled with minced meat and gravy, perfect for a quick lunch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bowral Farmers Market

Held every second Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal breads.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bowral experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (December to February) are warm, averaging 25°C (77°F). Winters (June to August) can be cool, with temperatures dropping to around 3°C (37°F) at night. Rain is spread throughout the year, with spring and autumn being particularly pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Australians value politeness and often greet strangers with a smile.

Queuing

Respect the queues in public places; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Casual Attire

Dress code is generally casual, but smart-casual is preferred for dining out.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bowral is generally a safe town, but standard precautions should be followed. Keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Local emergency services can be contacted easily, and the town has low crime rates.

Tipping in Bowral

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is less common, but ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy the beautiful blooms at Corbett Gardens, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather, ideal for vineyard visits and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Witness stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography.

Winter

Cool temperatures can be expected, but it's a cozy time for indoor activities and warm meals.

Nightlife Guide

Bowral at Night

Bowral has a relaxed nightlife scene, with several pubs and bars offering a cozy atmosphere. The town's venues often feature live music, and there are wine bars where visitors can enjoy local wines. While not bustling, it's perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Bowral

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Gibraltar

A short hike offering panoramic views of the Southern Highlands, with trails suitable for all fitness levels.

Bargo River State Conservation Area

Features a network of trails through natural bushland, perfect for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Bowral by plane.

Illawarra Regional Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from Bowral, this airport offers limited domestic flights, primarily to Sydney.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bowral is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and paths, making it easy to explore on foot. Parking can be limited, encouraging visitors to walk around.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Bowral has a significant population of retirees attracted by its peaceful environment and amenities.

Young Families

The town is also home to many young families, drawn by its good schools and family-friendly activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Bowral has a rich cricketing history and is home to the Bradman Museum, celebrating the legendary cricketer Don Bradman.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular in the Southern Highlands, with local clubs and competitions held throughout the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bowral is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses that connect Bowral to nearby towns, but services may be infrequent on weekends. Visitors are encouraged to drive or walk to explore the town conveniently.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bowral.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Bowral offer vegan dishes, ensuring inclusivity for plant-based diets.

Gluten-Free

Several cafes provide gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Bowral has several healthcare facilities, including the Bowral and District Hospital, which provides emergency and general medical services. Pharmacies are also available throughout the town for minor health needs. It's advisable for travelers to carry travel insurance for unexpected medical issues.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide