Car Rental Penrith Downtown

Let’s head to Penrith, the charming city tucked between Sydney and Blue Mountains. This handy guide will take you from the buzzing centre, to stunning nature walks to adrenaline-pumping activities, and sending you home with an experience that can’t be forgotten. 

Penrith is where urban excitement meets outdoor adventure. Located just an hour from Sydney’s CBD and 45 minutes from the Blue Mountains, this outer metropolitan city offers everything from river cruises and extreme sports, to arts and history. Whatever you’re looking for, Penrith has it all—and with Thrifty rental car, it’s all within reach.  

Explore the Outdoors in Penrith 

Penrith is surrounded by nature, making it perfect for outdoorsy types. Kick off with a nice paddle along the Nepean River, where you can canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard across calm waters. Fishing fiends will be in their element here or Bents Basin State Conservation Area, a beautiful reserve between Penrith and Camden that’s also great for a swim or picnic. 

For something relaxed, take on the Great River Walk—a 7km scenic loop between Penrith and Emu Plains, perfect for a casual stroll or a bike ride. Along the way, you can stop and watch local birdlife, take in the  views, or simply sit by the river. 

For something extra special, hop on a Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler cruise and glide through the breathtaking Nepean Gorge. If you prefer a bird’s-eye view, take a drive to The Rock Lookout in Mulgoa for a spectacular panorama of the gorge. Or, for an even grander perspective, visit the Penrith Observatory and take in the view of the night sky. 

Penrith: Your Gateway to the Blue Mountains 

Penrith is the perfect starting point for a road trip into the Blue Mountains National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed region is home to jaw-dropping scenery, towering sandstone cliffs, ancient Aboriginal rock art and iconic landmarks like the Three Sisters in Katoomba. 

A must-see stop is Wentworth Falls, where a short hike will reward you with a breathtaking cascade of water tumbling into the valley below. Venture further into the Valley of the Waters, where bushwalks weave through lush rainforest, leading to hidden waterfalls and unforgettable views. 

Beyond the wilderness, the Blue Mountains is home to charming townships with boutique shopping, beautiful gardens and cozy cafes. After a day of exploring, stop for a meal in one of the many cafes scattered throughout the area before making your way back to Penrith. 

Downtown Penrith: Thrills, Culture and History 

Penrith is a playground for adventure seekers. If you’re into water sports, Cables Wake Park offers cable water-skiing and wakeboarding for all skill levels. For a real thrill, head to the Penrith Whitewater Stadium or the Sydney International Regatta Centre, both originally built for the Sydney 2000 Olympics and still hosting world-class competitions today. These venues offer everything from whitewater rafting to kayaking, as well as scenic walking and cycling paths. 

If you prefer your adventures indoors, take a leap at iFLY Indoor Skydiving or test your skills at Flip Out Trampoline Park, home to Australia’s largest indoor trampoline arena. You can also get your adrenaline fix at Luddenham Raceway, where go-karting and paintballing will take the thrill to a whole other level. 

A Dose of Culture and Heritage 

When it comes to history and the arts, Penrith has plenty to offer. Start with a visit to The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, affectionately known as ‘The Joan.’ This world-class venue hosts concerts, theatre performances and community events. If you’re a history buff, check out the Museum of Fire, where vintage fire trucks and firefighting history take center stage. For those curious about naval history, the Nepean Naval Museum will take you on a deep dive. For an easy, self-guided historical tour, hop in your rental car and take the Penrith Heritage Drive, a 50km route that passes by historic sites in Penrith, St Marys, Castlereagh, Emu Plains and Mulgoa. 

Explore Penrith with Thrifty 

Penrith is a small city packed with plenty of adventure, culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the Nepean River, hitting the Blue Mountains, a Thrifty rental car ensures you experience it all with ease. Book your rental today and get ready to discover Penrith!