For those who have driven from Melbourne to Sydney or vice versa, Albury is best known as the best place to stop on a direct drive from city to city. However, this little gem of a town has much more to offer; this article will outline why. This 5-day/4-night itinerary includes everything from recommended places to eat to the best hotel to stay at and some great activities in and around the area.

If you’re looking for a charming and less-travelled spot in New South Wales, let me introduce you to Albury. Nestled along the Murray River, this town might be the hidden gem you didn’t know you were searching for.

Albury is perfect for a cozy getaway and serves as a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding beauty. Buckle up for a five-day adventure that combines history, art, nature, and some road trip fun!

Albury Trip Planner

Albury’s rich and diverse history dates back to the indigenous Wiradjuri people who originally inhabited the region. The town’s European history began with Hume and Hovell’s exploration of the area in 1824, followed by establishing a small settlement.

Albury’s strategic location as a crossing point on the Murray River contributed to its growth as a significant trading and transportation hub during the 19th century. The town played a crucial role in developing regional commerce, agriculture, and the transportation of goods between Melbourne and Sydney. Today, you can explore Albury’s historical landmarks, museums, and heritage sites to understand its captivating past better.

Getting to Albury

You have several transportation options to get to Albury, New South Wales. If you’re travelling from Melbourne or Sydney, you can fly directly to Albury Airport.

Alternatively, you can drive from Melbourne to Albury, which takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours via the Hume Freeway. Similarly, the drive from Sydney to Albury takes just under 6 hours.

If you prefer rail travel, you can take the train from Sydney or Melbourne using the NSW TrainLink’s XPT service, which stops at Albury Railway Station. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, Albury is easily accessible and offers a convenient gateway to explore the scenic beauty of New South Wales.

Albury experiences its warmer months with minimal rainfall from January to April and October to December, making it perfect for outdoor activities. During summer, temperatures typically reach around 30°C (86°F), while in winter, you can expect cooler temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F).

Discovering Albury’s Charm

The town itself is so much more than I imagined it to be. I can tell you I have been driving on the outskirts of Albury since I was a kid. Now that I have stopped here for a visit, I will definitely be returning, as five days is not enough to get the most out of this gorgeous town.

Hotel Recommendation

The Circa 1928 Art Hotel Albury is a charming and elegant hotel that seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern comforts. Located in the heart of Albury, this historic hotel offers a unique and immersive experience for everyone.

From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a captivating ambiance that reflects the rich history of the building. The hotel’s attention to detail and dedication to preserving its heritage make it a standout accommodation option in Albury. With its convenient location and thoughtfully designed rooms, Circa 1928 Art Hotel Albury provides a memorable and comfortable stay for anyone looking to explore the town’s treasures.

Day 1: Welcome to Albury

Morning: Your first day in Albury will be spent leisurely walking through the Botanic Gardens. The gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll, letting you unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you have kids, then their kid’s park is the best place to keep them busy and a great place to stretch their legs if you drive the distance to Albury.

Lunch: Try something light and easy on your first day in Albury. Canvas Eatery is within walking distance of Circa 1928 Art Hotel. Here, you will find everything you would expect from a local eatery (and many choices for fussy eaters, too).

• Address: 546 Dean Street, Albury, 2640, New South Wales
• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8 am to 3 pm; Friday to Saturday, 8 am to 9 pm

Check into the Circa 1928 Hotel Albury, where vintage charm meets modern comfort. After you’ve settled in, take a stroll around the hotel to get a feel for its historical vibe.

Afternoon: You must stop by the visitor’s information centre, which is located in the library (they are extremely helpful), and grab a map for the self-guided Albury CBD Historic Buildings Walking Tour. Allow 2 hours, and make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes.

However, before you head out, pop into the Albury Library Museum. This free museum has a plethora of information about the area, and you will find so much more than you bargained for.

• Address: Cnr Kiewa & Swift Streets, Albury
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 3 pm and Sundays 10 am to 2 pm

Evening: Try out the local delights tonight by stepping into The Thirsty Devil Brewery. This local gem offers a fantastic selection of craft beers alongside delicious food to complement the brews. Whether craving a refreshing pint or a satisfying meal, The Thirsty Devil Brewery is a great place to indulge in Albury’s culinary offerings.

• Address: 289 Townsend Street, Albury
• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Thursday: 4.00 pm-9.00 pm, Friday 4.00 pm-11.00 pm, Saturday: 12.00 pm-11.00 pm and Sunday: 12.00 pm-7.00 pm

Day 2: Exploring Albury’s Wonders

Morning: Today, there is much to cover so that you will start early. A Lake Hume Driving loop allows you to explore this area; you begin by heading to Eastern Hill. Here is a rundown of all the places you can stop along the way.

• Eastern Hill – Eastern Hill provides a stunning vantage point from which to admire the picturesque beauty of Lake Hume. Address: East Street, East Albury
• Hume Dam Wall – known initially as the Hume Weir. This significant landmark in the region plays a crucial role in water storage, irrigation, and electricity generation. Spending a few hours at Hume Dam allows you to admire the impressive engineering feat, learn about its history and importance, and enjoy its picturesque surroundings. Address: Riverina Highway, Lake Hume
• Bonegilla Migrant Experience: The Bonegilla Migrant Experience offers a compelling insight into the country’s migrant history and its impact on multiculturalism. Address: Bonegilla Road, Bonegilla. Opening Hours: 10 am to 4 pm Daily
• Huon Hill Lookout—The Huon Hill Lookout in Albury offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Address: Bakers Lane, Bandiana
• Bandiana Army Museum—The Bandiana Army Museum showcases a fascinating collection of military artifacts and exhibits, including Australia’s largest and most diversified military collection. Address: Anderson Road, Bandiana Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 1030am to 3 pm
• Hypen Library Gallery: Hyphen Library Gallery is a destination for art and anyone looking to explore contemporary works by emerging artists. Address: Hovell St, Wodonga Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday to Sunday, 1 am to 3 pm
• Junction Place: This is Wodonga’s town square precinct located in the old Railway yards. Address: Elgin Boulevard, Wodonga
• Gateway Village: Gateway Village is a vibrant cultural precinct connecting Albury and Wodonga, offering a range of arts, crafts, and local produce Address: Lincoln Causeway, Wodonga

Lunch: If you haven’t eaten at one of the stops then try The Boatshed Lake Hume. This picturesque waterfront restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with its Hampton-style interior. The menu showcases a delectable selection of modern Australian cuisine, including fresh seafood, succulent grilled meats, vibrant salads, and enticing vegetarian options.

• Address: 1 Ray Welsh Drive Lake Hume Village NSW 
• Opening hours: Lunch is only available on weekends

Afternoon: The afternoon will be spent following the Crossing Place, the walk is a 5.1-km loop. The trail follows the Murray River, where you will discover the original river crossings used until 1848.

Next, visit the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk (about an 8-minute drive from The Crossing Place trail). Walk alone and appreciate the beautiful sculptures along this 5-km trail. Address: 57 Hotham Circuit, Thurgoona, 2640, New South Wales

Special Mention: For a very special experience, take a guided tour. Giilangyaldhaanygalang is a locally owned company run by Wiradjuri women. It offers immersive tours that authentically experience Wiradjuri culture in the Albury, NSW, area.

Specialising in the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, their tours include Wiradjuri language immersion and learning. They can customise a tour for you, ranging from 1 hour to a full day. You can also try a Bushtucker tasting as part of the experience. Email:[email protected]

Evening: Return to Albury and enjoy a casual dinner at one of the town’s eateries. Then, spend the rest of the evening relaxing at the Circa 1928 Hotel.

Day 3: Adventures Around Albury

Morning: Start your day with a scenic drive to the nearby Wonga Wetlands. Just a short trip from Albury, this area is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying a morning in nature. Take a leisurely walk along the trails and admire the wetland’s unique wildlife and landscapes.

Lunch: Head back to Albury for a relaxing lunch at a local eatery. Try a Yardbird restaurant as they offer a delightful dining experience with its delicious cuisine and inviting ambience.

• Address: 493 Townsend St, Albury, 2640, New South Wales
• Opening hours: only open for lunch on Thursday and Friday

Afternoon: Explore the Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA) in more depth. Dive into the museum’s rotating exhibitions and learn more about contemporary art from the Murray region. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local art scene. To get a deeper understanding of the artwork, take a guided tour.

Evening: Why not spend the evening at the Regent Cinema, where you can unwind in Gold class after a few days of exploring this beautiful region of Australia?

• Address: 456 Dean St, Albury NSW 2640

Day 4: Day Trip to Glenrowan

Morning: Hit the road for a road trip to Glenrowan, about an hour from Albury. Known for its rich history related to the infamous outlaw Ned Kelly, Glenrowan offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s past. If you want more options of things to do here, then the Glenrowan guide will give you all you need. No need to purchase any tickets online, you can purchase at the counter on the day.

Start your visit by stopping at Kate’s Cottage to learn all about the legendary figure and the infamous siege that took place here. Then, step inside a replica of the Kelly homestead, where things are as they would have been all those years ago.

• Address: 35 Gladstone Street, Glenrowan

Within a few metres, you will also find the delightful Animatronic Show at Kellyland. The show consists of five sets dressed in the 1880s style to explain Ned Kelly’s life story.

• Address: 41 Gladstone St, Glenrowan
• Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, Open seven days a week during school holidays – Show runs every Half an Hour

Lunch: Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local café or pub in Glenrowan. Many of these spots offer a cozy atmosphere and some classic Aussie fare.

Afternoon: After lunch, stop first by the Visitors Centre, where you will also find the Discovery Hub, which is worth exploring.

Then, take out your map and explore the Glenrowan Historical Park. Walk through the historical sites and enjoy the informative displays about the Kelly Gang and the town’s role in Australian history. You can also visit the Old Glenrowan Inn, where you can learn more about the events of the 1880s.

Evening: Drive back to Albury and take in the relaxing rural scenery. Once you’re back in town, enjoy a casual dinner at one of Albury’s local restaurants or pubs. Refle it on your day trip while relaxing at your accommodation, the Circa 1928 Hotel Albury.

This day trip to Glenrowan gives you a taste of Australian history and a change of scenery while keeping your base in Albury. Enjoy the blend of historical exploration and local dining!

Day 5: Final Moments in Albury

Morning: After checking out and saying your goodbyes at the Circa 1928 Art Hotel, head to Monument Hill and visit its striking war memorial and the captivating panoramic view of the town and surrounding countryside.

Lunch: You can not come this far and not visit the Table Top Hotel (formerly known as the Ettamogah pub), just a short drive away. Why is this a must? The original pub was built in 1987 by businessman Lindsay Cooper exactly as it was drawn in the Ken Maynard comics. It looks just like it would in a comic book—wacky, goofy, and with a truck on its roof!

• Address: 561 Burma Road, Table Top NSW
• Opening hours: 11:00 am to 8 pm daily

Afternoon: It is time to head back home or to the next destination. Your time here has made a lasting impression, and I am sure it has given you a new itch for travelling around this beautiful historic region of Australia.

Whether heading home or to your next destination, take a moment to appreciate the time you’ve spent in this hidden gem.

Albury is a delightful town that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. From its historic charm to its natural beauty, it’s a fantastic place to unwind and explore. Safe travels and happy adventures!

Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

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