2026 Penrith Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#NovemberDestinations2025 Sydney North Shore Half-Day Itinerary Guide | Sports and Gourmet Food All in One! First Golf Experience + Okami Japanese Buffet Sydney's North Shore has such a chill itinerary! This time, we'll take you on a half-day tour of the North Shore. No need to rush to the attractions; just slowly enjoy the super comfortable pace of sports and delicious food. From the Thornleigh outdoor golf driving range to the popular Japanese buffet restaurant Okami in Pennant Hills, the journey is quiet and peaceful, perfect for Sydney beginners and a relaxing weekend getaway with friends. 🎯 Highlights - First-time Sydney travel friendly, easy to plan transportation, no frills! - A driving range recommended by locals, enjoy the sunset while playing golf! - A professional driving range that has produced many cinematic-looking photos! - Lunch or dinner at a high-value Japanese buffet – satisfying and delicious! - The entire route is through the North Shore, less crowded and refreshing, away from the city's congestion. 🟢 Recommended Itinerary Details 🏌️ Thornleigh Golf Centre (Golf Driving Range) 📍Address: 142–178 Pennant Hills Rd, Thornleigh NSW (Entrance via Dartford Rd) This is the most popular driving range in Sydney's North Shore. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, you can find a suitable fairway. The staff is very welcoming, the course offers excellent views, and every shot taken at sunset is a masterpiece! Club and shoe rentals are affordable, and a 30-minute session is usually enough to experience the outdoor fun that locals love. 📸 Recommended Photo Spots Second floor, right side: Clean background At dusk, the sunlight streaming in from the side is beautiful. The mini-golf area is brightly colored, making it family-friendly for photos. 🍱 Okami Japanese Restaurant Pennant Hills (Japanese-style à la carte buffet) 📍Address: Market Place, Shop 12 & 13, shop 17/10 Hillcrest Rd, Pennant Hills NSW 2120, Australia Okami isn't your typical buffet! It's an authentic Japanese buffet where you order directly and the staff brings the food to you. The service is fast, and you don't have to squeeze into the crowded buffet area. Incredibly good value: the lunch buffet is only $19.80 per person, and dinner offers more choices but is still $42.80 per person. The cold soba noodles and homemade vanilla ice cream are my top picks! You won't have to worry about long waits when ordering, making it perfect for gatherings with friends and budget-friendly trips. 🍚 Recommended Dishes - Cold Soba Noodles: Refreshingly sweet and sour with a hint of sesame, instantly cuts through any greasiness. - Fried Chicken, Prawn Tempura, Sashimi & Sushi: Fresh and not greasy. - Ultimate Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: I could easily eat two tubs! 😂 📌 Trip Tips (Golf + Food Beginner-Friendly Version) 1. Reservations for golf practice sessions can be made online in advance to save waiting time on-site. 2. Wearing athletic shoes is recommended at Thornleigh Golf Centre for comfortable movement in the practice area. 3. For Okami, it's advisable to book a table in advance, especially on Friday nights or weekend peak times, as walk-ins often result in long wait times. 4. The restaurant's lunch buffet offers excellent value, saving you a significant amount on food expenses. Lunch hours are 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM; dinner is from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM. 5. The entire trip can be taken by Sydney train or bus. Thornleigh and Pennant Hills are both near train stations and within walking distance. Driving is also convenient, with ample parking. Transportation Guide: Take the Sydney Trains T9 high-speed rail line to Thornleigh station (approximately a 10-minute walk from the driving range). After lunch, you can walk or take a bus directly to Pennant Hills Okami (a Japanese restaurant also very close to the station). The entire trip is not strenuous and is suitable for those without a car. Suitable for a short half-day trip, and also for those newly arrived in Sydney who want to experience local life. Experience sports and delicious food all in one go – highly recommended! #SydneyTravel #GolfExperience #JapaneseBuffet #SydneyFood #OutdoorSports

#winterescape to Sydney Australia and enjoying the sun

📍Location Blue Mountains 🚌Access Central Station ↓🚃 Penrith Station ↓🚌 Katoomba Station ↓🚶 Blue Mountains I took the train from Central Station. On the day I went, the train only ran as far as Penrith Station, so I transferred to a bus and went to Katoomba Station. If there's nothing going on, you can go from Central Station to Katoomba Station without changing buses. I took the bus when the train wasn't running, but I didn't have to pay an additional fare. ⭐️It's important to check the bus schedule. 📷Photogenic Spots I walked from Katoomba Station to the Blue Mountains. There's also a bus, but by walking, I was able to see antique shops and visit the library. There are many cafes close to the station, so it's recommended to relax there before heading out. A little further away... The Three Sisters!!! I was able to visit a World Heritage Site overseas and spend some relaxing time surrounded by nature! In addition to the observation deck, there were also several walking trails. Some spots seem so far away that you'd need a car, but it was still a fun day trip! A short walk away, you can also see the waterfalls. 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities There was also a souvenir shop near the Three Sisters. Not only could I browse the souvenirs, I also got a map, and the shopkeeper was able to tell me how to get to the waterfalls and ask for help if I needed anything. There's a lot of walking, so it's a good idea to bring some water with you. #BlueMountains #Sydney #AustraliaTrip #WorldHeritage #AustraliaTrip #ThreeSisters #Nature

Sydney’s west is serving some seriously cool treats, and Penrith now has its own sweet gem 🍦😋! If you’re craving the ultimate gelato experience, Gelato Messina Penrith is a must-do. What makes this spot extra Insta-worthy? Their bright orange and yellow MESSINA box stands out against the modern glass-walled exhibition hall vibe — super photogenic for those travel snaps! Must-Try Spot: Gelato Messina Penrith – Shop 60a/585 High St, Penrith NSW 2750. Open from late morning till late night (usually 12pm to 10pm, but check trip.com for the daily schedule). The menu features original Messina classics plus seasonal flavors, and here’s my tip: try their specials, like the weekly rotating “creations,” and don’t miss pandan coconut or the famous salted caramel & white chocolate! Messina always nails creamy texture and punchy flavors, plus the takeaway boxes keep it cold (I took home the orange/yellow box, which is a total statement piece). Getting There: Penrith Station is a 10-min walk away, so hopping on the train from Sydney CBD is fuss-free. If you’re driving, there’s heaps of parking at Westfield or along High Street. Extra Tips: Buy more than you think — these flavors disappear fast, especially on weekends! Take pics inside; the architecture is sleek and contemporary. Bring cash or card (both accepted); and if you’re doing a food crawl in Penrith, add Messina to your dessert finale. Weather-wise, gelato is a win year-round, but the outdoor seats are best enjoyed in late afternoon sun. #PenrithEats #SydneyGelato #MessinaMoments #FoodPhotography #Tripdotcom

Okami Japanese Restaurant (Pennant Hills) Looking for a budget-friendly and filling Japanese buffet lunch? This Japanese restaurant located in Pennant Hills is definitely worth a try. The area is surrounded by cafes and small shops, making it a great spot for a post-lunch stroll. 💰 Price Reference (Lunch Buffet) Monday to Friday Adults (Lunch Buffet): Around $19.80/person Discounts available for children and seniors This price is considered a great deal for a Japanese buffet lunch in a big city like Sydney. 🍱 The buffet offers a wide variety of dishes, including: ✔ Sushi ✔ Cold Soba ✔ Miso Soup ✔ Fried Rice & Fried Noodles ✔ Japanese Dumplings ✔ Fried Dishes ✔ Stir-fried Vegetables & Cold Dishes ✔ Beef Dishes ✔ Fresh Fruits These classic Japanese dishes cover almost everything, allowing you to enjoy a variety of flavors in one meal. 🚗 Transportation Guide Train: Take a train from the city to Pennant Hills Station, and it's about a 1-minute walk from the station. Driving/Taxi: There are parking spaces available next to and near the restaurant, making it convenient for those driving. 🪑 Dining Experience The restaurant offers a spacious environment, friendly service, and quick food replenishment, making it a great spot for lunch gatherings or a relaxed meal. Summary If you're looking for an affordable and diverse Japanese buffet, Okami is a safe and high-value choice. With generous portions, consistent flavors, and convenient access, you can easily enjoy a delightful lunch.

📅 Itinerary Day 1: Start your adventure with a chill morning stroll at [Insert Popular Park/Spot]. The vibes here are immaculate and the scenery is ✨top-tier✨! Around noon, hit up [Insert Museum/Attraction Name + Address]. Open ’til 6PM, so you’ve got plenty of time. Snap some pics for the ’gram—this spot is iconic! For the afternoon, wander through [Insert Trendy Neighborhood/Market], where local shops and street eats serve major main-character energy. Day 2: Fuel up for the day at [Insert Famous Café + Address]. The pancakes are sooo good! Next, get your culture fix at [Insert Landmark + Address]. Don’t forget to check the opening hours (usually 10AM-5PM) so you don’t miss out. Explore the city center, hitting up cool boutiques and quirky murals. By late afternoon, catch a sunset at [Insert Rooftop/Viewpoint]—this view is 🤯! Day 3: Kick off with a chill breakfast at [Insert Brunch Spot + Address]. Afterward, stroll through [Insert Park/Outdoor Attraction]. This spot is perfect for cute selfies and dreamy vibes! If you’re into shopping, swing by [Insert Shopping District] and treat yourself. Wrap up your trip with a relaxed dinner at [Insert Must-Try Restaurant + Address]. 🏨 Accommodation Stay comfy at [Insert Hotel Name + Address]. It’s in the heart of everything, so getting around is a breeze. Book with trip.com for sweet deals and zero stress! 🍴 Food Recommendations You HAVE to try: - [Insert Local Dish] at [Top Restaurant Name + Address] - Late-night bites at [Insert Street Food Area] - Insta-worthy desserts at [Insert Café] 📌 Tips - Always check opening hours before heading out! - Download an offline map, just in case you lose signal. - Wear comfy kicks—there’s a LOT of walking. - Use trip.com for hotel and attraction bookings to save some cash! Pack your bags, bring your best vibes, and let trip.com make your getaway totally unforgettable!

Ready to level up your travel game for the next 3 days? Here’s your go-to itinerary loaded with everything you need to eat, sleep, and explore in style! Let’s get this adventure started 🚀👇 📅 Itinerary Day 1: Kick things off with a chill morning walk at the city’s top park (opens 7am – 8pm), then snap some jaw-dropping pics at the iconic local monument. For lunch, check out a trendy café nearby—vibes are immaculate and the avocado toast is sooo good! 🌳🍳 Must-see: Head to the museum downtown for major art inspo (open 10am – 6pm). Evening: Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll by the waterfront. The views are next-level 🤩! Day 2: Fuel up with a classic local breakfast spot (opens 8am), then get lost in the super cute old town area—think cobblestone streets and pastel houses! Shop little boutiques for unique souvenirs. Lunch: Street food is a must—grab a bite at the bustling market (open 11am – 9pm). Afternoon: Take a guided walking tour for epic history facts and hidden gems. Evening: Chill out at a rooftop bar with panoramic city views. Sippin’ cocktails, livin’ the dream! 🍹🌆 Day 3: Start strong at an insta-worthy brunch spot (from 9am). Adventure time: Hit the hiking trails just outside the city—fresh air+scenery=instant mood boost! 🥾🌄 Lunch: Try a cozy bistro famous for their homemade dishes. Final stop: End your trip shopping at a stylish mall, open till 10pm for all the last-minute finds. 🏨 Accommodation Stay where comfort meets cool! Book a sleek city center hotel through trip.com for easy access to all the hotspots and that ultra-comfy bed. Address: [Sample Hotel, City Center, Main St, Open 24/7]. Tip: Check for free breakfast perks and late checkout offers when booking. 🍴 Food Recommendations Don’t miss: - Local breakfast café (Main Blvd, 8am – 2pm): everything tastes amazing - Street food market (Market Rd, 11am – 9pm): snack overload - Brunch hotspot (Sunshine Ave, 9am – 4pm): brunch goals! - Cozy bistro (Maple St, noon – 11pm): the pasta = next-level 📌 Tips - Book your hotel and major attractions ahead on trip.com for best deals—a total money-saver! - Wear comfy shoes—you’ll be walking everywhere. - Snap all the pics and make those memories last. - Most places accept mobile pay, so no stress over cash. And there you have it, the perfect 3-day travel blueprint to make your trip totally unforgettable! Safe travels and good vibes only! ✨🧳

📅 Itinerary Day1：Astina suits Day2: Penrith Westfield Day3: Penrith all you can eay Korean bbq 🏨 Accommodation Astina was amazing it was a really nice to stay there clean and staff members were very friendly 🍴 Food Recommendations I loved eating at the Korean all you can eat BBQ it was amazing 📌 Tips staying at Penrith close to all restaurants and Westfield shopping centre it was was amazing everything was so close

❤️ Create a memory of soaring through the air The uniqueness of indoor skydiving lies not in "simulating skydiving," but in showing us that flying is not an unattainable dream. No runway, no wings—just step into the wind tunnel, and you'll experience the lightness of floating. For travelers looking to try something new, this is a great opportunity to let go of inhibitions and rediscover a sense of freedom during your journey. Because flying is not just an action; it's a state of mind. 🕰️ Operating Hours: Varies by venue 🏖️ Environment/Facilities: Transparent wind tunnel, professional safety gear, viewing area, instructor guidance 💰 Average Cost: Approximately 90–120 AUD (depending on the package) 🌬️ Dreams of flying don’t require wings Humans have always dreamed of flying. Watching birds spread their wings or planes streak across the sky, we often wonder: how amazing would it be to float freely in the air? Indoor skydiving makes this dream a reality. You don’t need to ascend to high altitudes, nor do you need wings or parachutes. Simply step into the transparent wind tunnel, and you’ll feel the wind lifting your body, suspending you like a feather in mid-air. 🌟 The thrill of a first-time experience Before entering the wind tunnel, instructors patiently explain the necessary postures and gestures. It’s natural to feel nervous at first: Can I really fly? Will I fall? But the moment the high-speed airflow lifts your body from below, all worries vanish. You don’t feel the weight; you only feel yourself being "caught by the wind." Stretch out your arms and legs, and your body floats as if in an invisible ocean. This sensation isn’t the rapid descent of an airplane or the thrill of an amusement ride—it’s pure freedom and lightness. 👨👩👧👦 This activity isn’t designed for thrill-seekers. The environment is safe, with instructors accompanying you throughout, making it suitable for a wide range of ages—from children as young as three to seniors. Everyone can safely experience the joy of flying under professional guidance. This "activity" feels more like a gift to the part of you that dreams of flying. From the viewing area, you can watch others float like superheroes, sometimes flipping, sometimes spinning. If you join the experience, instructors can even guide you through small movements, making you feel like you’re truly flying. 📝 Tips for the Experience 1. Clothing: Wear sneakers and comfortable attire; avoid jewelry. 2. Mindset: Relaxation is key—stiffness makes it harder for the wind to lift you. 3. Duration: Each session lasts only a few minutes, but the sensation of being completely lifted by the wind leaves a lasting impression. 4. Spectator Fun: Even if you don’t participate, watching friends or family "fly" from the viewing area is equally entertaining.

Pullman Sydney Penrith: An Unforgettable Journey of Music and Vacation Because of "City of Stars, are you shining just for me?", I set foot in Sydney and checked into the Pullman Sydney Penrith. 🌁 Decoration style: The perfect blend of modern simplicity and Australian local style. The lobby is spacious and bright, with a large number of wooden elements and natural light. As soon as you step in, you will feel the warmth and comfort. 🏘️ Room type/layout: The room layout is very reasonable, the space is open and not cramped. The furniture is placed just right, every detail shows thoughtfulness, and the bedding is soft and comfortable for a good night's sleep. 🎠 Things to do: There are a variety of things to do around the hotel. Friends who like excitement can experience thrilling water sports; those who love natural scenery can stroll in the surrounding natural beauty and feel the charm of nature. 🍽️ Dining features: The restaurant specializes in seafood cuisine, with fresh ingredients and local spices. With one bite, the fresh aroma blooms on the tip of the tongue, bringing a luxurious enjoyment to the taste buds. 💰 Average cost: AUD 200 - 300, combined with the quality service and experience provided by the hotel, the price/performance ratio is very high. 💗 Other tips: The hotel gym is fully equipped, suitable for friends who like to exercise early in the morning. Go to the rooftop terrace in the evening to encounter the beautiful sunset, the photos are super beautiful, don't miss it!

✅Excellent location Pullman Sydney Penrith is located at 81 Mulgoa Road, only 1.6 km from Penrith Metro Station, which is about 22 minutes' walk away. This location not only provides easy access to the city's main attractions, but also provides a peaceful environment in which to relax and unwind after a busy day. In addition, there are many dining and shopping places near the hotel, which can fully meet your various needs👍. ✅Complete facilities and services 1️⃣Abundant room types: Pullman Sydney Penrith offers a variety of room types, including king-size rooms, twin rooms and family rooms. Each room is equipped with high-quality bedding and toiletries to ensure you enjoy the most comfortable experience during your stay. Whether it's a business trip or a family trip, this place can meet your needs🥰. 2️⃣First-class fitness and leisure facilities: The hotel is equipped with a modern gym and garden, allowing you to maintain a healthy lifestyle during your trip. The garden is a great place to relax and unwind, take a walk or simply enjoy the peaceful nature 😘. 3️⃣Non-smoking floors and free parking: In order to cater to the needs of different guests, the hotel has specially set up non-smoking floors. For tourists who drive, the hotel also provides free parking, making your travel more convenient and worry-free. ✅Delicious dining experience Although some reviews mentioned that the breakfast variety is limited and mostly Western, which is not enough to satisfy the tastes of all guests, the hotel's service attitude is still praised. If you don't mind going out for breakfast, there are many cafes and restaurants nearby to satisfy your taste buds 👨🏻‍🍳. ✅Convenient booking and check-in experience Book Pullman Sydney Penrith through Trip.com and enjoy up to 15% off and 4 free benefits. Check-in time is after 14:00 and check-out time is before 11:00. For guests travelling with children, the hotel provides extra beds and baby cots. Please contact the hotel for specific policies.

🏨 Hotel Overview Pullman Sydney Penrith, a modern and elegant urban harbor, has attracted the attention of countless business and leisure travelers with its excellent location and luxurious accommodation experience since its opening in 2023. The hotel is located in the center of Sydney, surrounded by many attractions and convenient transportation, making it an ideal place for business trips and leisure vacations. 🚆 Convenient Transportation The hotel is only about 15 km from Rooty Hill Railway Station, making it easy to reach by train or car. From the hotel, you can easily reach all the popular attractions in Sydney, such as Penrith Panthers Leagues Club and iFLY Downunder, making your trip more colorful. 🛏️ Room Experience The hotel has 153 spacious and bright rooms, and every detail reveals a pursuit of quality. The rooms are fully equipped, allowing you to feel the warmth and comfort of home while traveling. Whether you are on a business trip or a family vacation, this place can meet your accommodation needs. 🍽️ Gourmet Enjoyment The hotel has several restaurants and bars offering a variety of food and drinks. From authentic Australian cuisine to rich coffee, you can find satisfaction here. While enjoying delicious food, you can also appreciate the exquisite design of the hotel, making your dining experience more enjoyable. 🏋️‍♂️ Leisure Facilities To keep you healthy and fit during your busy trip, the hotel also has a gym, swimming pool, and other leisure facilities. Here, you can release stress and enjoy a peaceful and beautiful time... At Pullman Sydney Penrith, you will enjoy a luxurious and unforgettable accommodation experience. Whether you are on a business trip or a leisure vacation, this is your ideal choice. Come and start your Sydney trip!

Penrith Originally founded by the original Darug tribe, many descendants of which still live here; Captain Cook arrived at Sydney's Botany Bay in 1770, and 18 years later, in 1788, Captain Phillip established the first European settlement in Sydney; next, in 1789, Captain Watkin Tench of the Royal Fleet led a fleet to Parramatta at the foot of the Blue Mountains. They followed the river northwards; the river was named the Nepean after Evan Nepean. Since then, the area has become known as Evan, and agriculture and food processing industries have developed rapidly.

In Sydney, one day the children suggested that we should go to the outback steakhouse to eat and see what is different from Hong Kong. Because it was a weekday, so we did not book a place, arrived at about 6:15, walk in, two adults and two children. The clerk arranged a place for us, and then looked at the menu, it turns out that here you can scan the PR code to order, but it seems to pay first, as not sure, still ask the clerk to help us place an order, we ordered Kids meal fried chicken finger, including juice Kids Meal Broiler Joey Sirloin with juice Pasta Red Center Pasta Ribeye 10oz A glass of draft beer I found out that there is no black sugar bread here, I remember there was still last year 😅 But count, we also have no order. The portions are almost the same, only the french fries 🍟 are more than about, enough to eat, the children are happiest to eat french fries. The final bill was $106