Whether Sydney is calling you for work, rest or play, the Australian city always sparkles for you. These are the best hotels to stay at…
Need your Sydney fix, but don’t know which hotel to pick? The accommodation choices in this sexy city are unlimited for every budget – from luxury views of the iconic harbour, to funky laneway digs in the heart of the designer shopping district, to coastal beach hangs. No doubt about it: Sydney is cool, chic, sporty and fun – there’s always something going on.
Best hotels in Sydney: Splurge on luxury
1. A by Adina Sydney
Ready to revel in 22 floors of fabulous? You’ll be welcomed at the alluring sky lobby and reception. Next, take your choice of rooms: studio, executive, or one and two-bedroom apartments boasting city views and intuitive in-room tech. Psst: cocktail hour just got a whole lot more interesting at Dean & Nancy, a sexy bar that comes alive from sunset with ingenious cocktails. Or perhaps we can interest you in a revitalising dip in the heated mineral pool? This high-end apartment living comes with a sky lobby that stands 100 metres above the ground for that guaranteed wow factor. Plus, you’re mere minutes away from The Rocks and Circular Quay or a stroll to Sydney’s theatre district in Walsh Bay.
A by Adina Sydney, 2 Hunter Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
2. Ace Hotel Sydney
Ace is so much more than a hotel – it’s a place that celebrates local food, culture, art, and music. Its location? The heart of Surry Hills. It features 257 rooms, event spaces in the lobby or the laneway (so inner city), as well as hotter than hot restaurants Kiln and Loam. You won’t be disappointed with the memorable wholesome nosh made with high-quality regional produce. All this makes the hotel hard to skip on our list (so ace!).
Ace Hotel Sydney, 49 – 53 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney, NSW 2000
3. Crown Sydney
If you’re looking to indulge in glitzy sophistication in the middle of Sydney Harbour, the waterfront sophistication at this hotel won’t let you down. Unrivalled views of Darling Harbour with more than 480 luxe rooms offering spectacular views plus an open-air infinity pool is just the tip of the iceberg.
On the sixth floor, you’ll find the first spa facility in Australia to house quartz hot-sand therapy and touchless spa wave therapy. Pop into the space to pamper yourself at relaxation rooms, vitality pools, infrared saunas and steam rooms, as well as a yoga and meditation area. We say go for gold in the fitness studio and tennis court before indulging in the hottest dining offerings at hotspots like Nobu, a’Mare, Oncore by Clare Smyth and Woodcut.
Crown Sydney, 1 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, NSW 2000
4. Hyatt Regency Sydney
Hyatt is a huge haven of relaxation for business and leisure travellers, boasting a whopping 878 guestrooms and great dining spots. Top tip: book a room with a balcony overlooking Darling Harbour to enjoy a sundowner while admiring stunning views as the sun sets over Sydney. Lovers of seafood, don’t miss the inventive Seafarer dining experience, which dishes up sustainably and wild-caught seafood fare. The hotel also houses watering holes Jackalberry and Zephyr if you’re keen on a drink.
Hyatt Regency Sydney, 161 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
5. InterContinental Sydney
Recently refurbished, this hotel’s 509 guest rooms and suites are designed with the modern traveller in mind. Sophisticated features and amenities abound, including unobstructed windows to allow for sensational views, new integrated Chromecast services, Byredo bathroom amenities, and exceptional minibar offerings. The hotel’s well-being amenities have also been revitalised. Check out the state-of-the-art gym and the indoor heated pool, which floats 31 storeys high for breathtaking views overlooking the Sydney Opera House (that’s what we’re talking about!).
Dining comes courtesy of Aster Bar on level 32, offering immersive experiences alongside Australian flavours and local produce. Or head to The Treasury, a new bar and dining destination with a thoughtful menu of dishes, wines and cocktails.
InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
6. Kimpton Margot Sydney
This inner city sanctuary merges old world glamour with a modern flair. Think contemporary design with a dash of Art Deco. There are 178 stunning rooms and suites to choose from, including an eclectic minibar nightcap selection, espresso machines and local teas. The beds and oversized bathrooms are to die for, boasting natural Australian amenities and smart TVs with Chromecast streaming.
Flagship restaurant Luke’s takes centre stage in the lobby, helmed by renowned Australian chef, Luke Mangan. The menu serves up elegant modern fare, while his cocktail bar invites you to mingle and enjoy bites, inventive cocktails and wines. Everything here is for you to indulge, relax and taste the best of Sydney. Oh, and doggos are welcomed with open arms!
Kimpton Margot Sydney, 339 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
7. Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Positioned in the old Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo, the vast majority of Ovolo’s 100 funky rooms come with ooh-la-la water views featuring superb design, fashion and playful art-filled interiors. It’s perfect for business travellers or a romantic getaway. Our advice for a forget-me-not-stay? Book the INXS or AC/DC suites for a taste of what it feels like to hang out rockstar-style. They come complete with cool art, quirky offerings, sweet treats, a stocked bar, speakers in every room (for all those jam sessions), and super comfy beds you won’t want to leave.
The hotel’s restaurant focuses on plant-based cuisine, while other facilities include an on-site gym, pool and spa alongside a pool table and bar area for casual hangin’. Art lovers can immerse yourselves in the stunning Woolloomooloo sculpture walk and visit the nearby Art Gallery of NSW. Get packing and stay in one of the most colourful hotels you’ll experience!
Ovolo Woolloomooloo, 6 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
8. QT Sydney
Decadence is the name of the game at QT Sydney with just the right touch of drama, texture and curious quirks. Part Art Deco masterpiece, part heritage theatre, it’s home to 200 rooms (including 19 sumptuous suites) and dining spots like the savvy steakhouse Gowings or Parlour’s honest French fare. For lovers of afternoon tea, you won’t be disappointed by the spread on offer at QTea High Tea – be sure to try the Bohemian Blue tea! Need a little self-care time? SpaQ offers all the pampering you need.
QT Sydney, 49 Market Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
9. The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Standing proudly amongst the bustle of Martin Place, the iconic Fullerton is beautifully represented in the former General Post Office building. Steeped in charm and grandeur, the hotel is pure five-star luxury in all its majesty throughout 416 spacious and stylish rooms and suites.
Located in the heart of Sydney’s financial and fashion district, it’s a stone’s throw from Sydney landmarks like Darling Harbour, the lush Royal Botanic Garden, the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Expect to see all the classic Fullerton amenities here, including its signature afternoon tea.
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, 1 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000
10. The Porter House Hotel Sydney
Just footsteps from Hyde Park and a short stroll from Pitt Street Mall and other iconic attractions, this stylish sanctuary blends architectural design with endearing old world charm. Choose from 122 guest rooms designed for the modern traveller, and enjoy facilities like a fitness centre, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and a number of sleek and sophisticated dining options. This is one place to meet, explore, relax and linger.
The Porter House Hotel Sydney, 203 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
11. Capella Sydney
Opening its doors in March 2023, Capella Sydney sits in a heritage-listed building. This stunning hotel offers 192 guest rooms and suites spanning eight levels. We’re psyched to check out its dining offerings and a wellness space exclusive to in-house guests featuring Auriga spa, a fitness centre, a yoga platform and a swimming pool.
Capella Sydney, 35 – 39 Bridge Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
12. W Sydney
Get ready for W Sydney’s luxury lifestyle with 585 stylish guest rooms and suites showcasing the stellar city. Opening in October 2023, the hotel will be home to a two-storey rooftop bar, heated infinity pool with magnificent views, spa, gym, all-day restaurant, event space and direct access into the heart of the Darling Harbour waterfront precinct.
W Sydney, 31 Wheat Road, Sydney, NSW 2000
Best hotels in Sydney: Boutique stays that are kind to the wallet
13. Aiden Darling Harbour
This uber cool boutique hotel in a beautifully remodelled 1930s Art Deco building has 88 compact rooms with sleek and savvy digital features such as self check-in kiosks and digital room keys. It’s all about the central location – you’re close to The Star and Darling Harbour, with no end to entertainment and dining choices. But it’s the hotel that keeps surprising, with luxury beds and thoughtful room features like Dyson hair dryers, coffee pod machines and garment steamers, plus free Moda water filters on every floor for still and sparkling H2O.
Oh, and you won’t be able to walk past the hand-painted murals by artist-in-residence Jessica Le Clerc without stopping for an appreciative stare – especially in the lobby and Wayfarer’s Bar & Cafe.
Aiden Darling Harbour, 45 Murray Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009
14. Manly Pacific
Always wanted to try surfing? This is the hotel for you. Bask by the sandy shores with your front-row view of the stunning Manly Beach. This boutique accommodation effortlessly combines private peaceful retreat vibes with a location that’s close to all the action. Choose from 213 relaxing rooms, including The Infinity Residence and nine ocean-facing coastal suites. The hotel houses a rooftop pool and bar, a sundeck with an infrared sauna, and eclectic lobby bar 55 North. Don’t forget to book a table at Bistro Manly for a modern twist on French cuisine.
Manly Pacific, 55 North Steyne, Manly, NSW 2095
15. The Blue Hotel Bondi
Looking for a different way to stay? Check in for a cool and calm vacay in the heart of buzzy Bondi Beach, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants, bars and cafes in Sydney. The hotel boasts 33 simply designed yet funky rooms and an Amalfi-inspired restaurant where you’ll find digital nomads in the morning before it transforms into a buzzy cocktail joint at night. Enjoy the best of beach life here: sign up for a surf lesson, hit a local infrared sauna and ice bath house, or take a yoga or fitness class. Whatever floats your boat, you’ll find it. Surfers, this hotel is for you!
The Blue Hotel Bondi, 113-115 Hall Street, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026
16. Oxford House
Escape to an inner city sanctuary on eclectic Oxford Street. Each of the hotel’s 56 rooms inspires a stay less ordinary. This is a hotel full of compact, contemporary and cutesy charm. If you’re looking to spread out, our tip is to splurge for a suite. The beds are super luxe – think plush Double Rainbouu robes to cuddle in and Grown Alchemist bath amenities to enjoy. Breakfast won’t disappoint either, serving up sun-kissed, modern Australian cuisine. After a day of exploring, retreat to the secluded pool and bar to relax.
Oxford House, 21 Oxford Street, Paddington, NSW 2021
17. Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour
Nestled in the centre of all the action, this hotel hits all the right notes. Enjoy peace and relaxation with a New York-inspired design that blends effortlessly with Sydney’s casual cool in the 145 rooms on offer. We love the heated rooftop pool and the vibrant Above 319 restaurant and bar where you can sip sundowners under the stars with prime vistas of the city skyline. For drinks and dining with an urban view, head downstairs to the hotel’s casual dining option, The Sussex Store.
Staying here encourages you to explore the best of Sydney on foot by enjoying retail therapy at Pitt Street Mall, a casual stroll to Circular Quay, world-class entertainment at Sydney Opera House, or Chinatown for a scrummy chow down. It’s a vibe.
Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour, 319 – 325 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Book a stay at one of these fantastic hotels on your next trip to Sydney!
