We list the best hotels and accommodations in Sydney as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews, and we only listed places with at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Sydney: The Baxley Bondi
Best boutique hotel in Sydney: Ovolo 1888 Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Sydney: The Langham Sydney
Best hostel in Sydney: Wake Up! Sydney Central
Best eco-friendly hotel in Sydney: Crystalbrook Albion Hotel
“Towering above Walsh Bay from its prime position alongside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this sleek hotel is the place for a room with a bird’s-eye view. North-facing rooms overlooking the water are the best.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Sydney.
“I love the opulence of this hotel, and love staying here. This exclusive colonial-style property, a 10-minute walk uphill from The Rocks and 15 minutes from Circular Quay, is a turn-of-the-20th-century beauty competing for top-hotel-in-Sydney honors.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Sydney.
“Park Hyatt unveils the postcard-perfect, uninterrupted Sydney vista, where it feels the Opera House is singing just for you.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Sydney.
“The recently refurbished Old Clare Hotel is a stylish, 62-room boutique hotel with a sleek rooftop pool and bar located in the heart of Chippendale, a hip neighborhood with an emerging arts and dining scene.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Sydney, Australia.
“With its loft-like designed spaces and dimly lit hallways that smell of incense, this place feels like your chic pied-à-terre in Sydney.”
“The Ace, 18 stories high with 257 rooms, is located in a magnificent early-20th-century building that vibrates with top-to-toe creative energy. Revived by Australia’s most in-demand interior architects, Flack Studio, the former brick factory has kept its old bones – high ceilings and exposed brick and concrete walls – offset with one-of-a-kind furniture, art, and bric-a-brac by the country’s best designers, artists, and makers.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s Hotlist 2023.
“This expert conversion of three Victorian-era terraces adds a touch of class to leafy Victoria Street. The charming front rooms have original features and, in some cases, a balcony; the more modern back rooms are brighter and have lift access.”
“The Four Seasons Sydney has a great location in The Rocks, a vast lobby, rooms with vistas and the largest heated outdoor hotel pool in the city. And unbeatable beds and bedding.”
“Fun, sexy and relaxed, this ultra-theatrical, effortlessly cool hotel is located in the historic State Theatre. Art-deco eccentricity is complemented by quirky extras in the rooms, which are distinct and decorated with real style and flair – there’s a definite wow factor.”
“In a heritage-listed wool store, this stylish gem combines industrial minimalism with the warmth of ironbark-wood beams, luxury appointments and engaged staff. Rooms range from the aptly named Shoebox to airy lofts and attic suites with harbour views.”
“History buffs and those in search of views and solitude will appreciate Q Station’s smartly refurbished rooms and historic cottages located inside a nook of the Sydney Harbour National Park in Manly. The grounds are dotted with historic buildings where guests can pass the time as quarantined migrants once did, playing billiards, table tennis or savoring the views of Sydney Harbour over cups of tea.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Sydney, Australia.
“Accommodation in Sydney doesn’t come cheap, but one affordable secret is tucked among the palms and frangipani trees of south Bondi Beach. A former school, the Bondi Beach House has nine sunny rooms and suites, each decorated with tasteful antiques and Australian works of art.”
“It’s among the best of Sydney hotels. Owners spent millions renovating the rooms in 2011, giving them a more modern feel . Staff are helpful and genuinely eager to debrief you on your day or assist you in planning your itinerary for the next one.”
“For anyone wanting to be in the thick of Sydney’s bar, restaurant and nightlife quarter, hotels don’t come much better situated than Hotel Lamont.”
Recommended by:
Fodors, Forbes, CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
The Guardian
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
One of the largest cities in Australia, Sydney is known for its Opera House and a distinctive global appeal. The harbour front and quaysides and the famous Harbour Bridge are the landmark structures. Apart from these iconic sights, we will tell you the other places to visit here.
Bondi beach
The crescent-shaped white sand beach is a famous landmark of Sydney, and attracts surfers from all over the world. Trendy cafes to laid-back pubs dot the sea-front, while the premier hotels offer a magnificent view of the ocean. The walk from Bondi to Coogee has one of the most brilliant scenery.
Newtown
It is a bohemian neighbourhood that draws shoppers to the budget stores. The bars and eateries have a distinctive feel and cater to a global fare. Live theatre, comedy shows and street art is what makes this place unique and brings tourists to New Town.
Glebe
It has a carefree, intellectual area with a certain historic charm. Bookshops and galleries attract the scholars whereas the Saturday Market is a favourite among the shoppers. Ethnic eateries and edgy cafes and pubs are a big hit among the tourists.
Cronulla
Being an hour's drive from the city centre, it has the feel of a village. The surfing and swimming spots are quite popular among the tourists. You can sun-bathe on the pristine beaches while having a relaxing day.
Balmain
One of the posh neighbourhoods of Sydney, it has trendy boutique hotels. Darling Street in Balmain is famous for its stores, artisan bakeries and luxury eateries. Balmain market is famous for the local produces like food, handicraft and fashion.
Also check out our travel guide about the best areas to stay in Sydney.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Sydney, then go for The Langham Sydney. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Sydney, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Sydney, then book The Baxley Bondi. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Sydney.
Looking for a cozy place to stay in Sydney that serves you handmade and fresh breakfast in the morning? Go and check out Bondi Beach House B&B. The B&B has been recommended by well-known travel experts and recent guests have given it top ratings.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Sydney? Check out Wake Up! Sydney Central. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Sydney.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Sydney, you should check out Ovolo 1888 Hotel. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Sydney, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try Four Seasons Hotel or Shangri-La Hotel. Both hotels offer amazing views of Sydney according to recent customer reviews.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $90 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $130 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Sydney hotel then you can expect to pay around $190 per night.
If you're looking for the best rooftop pool in Sydney try The Old Clare Hotel. The hotel has excellent customer reviews for their rooftop swimming pools.
Try Hotel Spicers Potts Point if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Sydney. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
Try Hotel Spicers Potts Point if you're looking for a romantic getaway in Sydney, it has some excellent recent customer reviews by couples.
Sydney Harbour Ferry with Taronga Zoo Entry Ticket. Your package includes round-trip cruise from Circular Quay to the zoo, and a ride on the Sky Safari Gondola, which whisks you uphill from the boat dock to the main entrance of Taronga Zoo. Price: $48.
The Sydney Opera House Tour. Discover the stories, history, and magic of Sydney Opera House with a 1-hour long guided tour that takes you underneath the world-famous sails and along and inside the iconic theatres and foyers that bring to life over 1800 performances each year. Price: $31.
All Inclusive Blue Mountains Small-Group Day Trip from Sydney. Enjoy sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and sites including the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley. Hop onboard the Scenic Railway (or other rides) at Scenic World, enjoy a chef-prepared lunch (dietary requirements accommodated), and visit Featherdale Wildlife Park to see kangaroos and other native Australian critters. Price: $180.
More things to do in Sydney
Sydney is a city like no other. It’s not just the striking natural beauty of this coastal city that sets it apart, but also its buzzing food scene, energetic nightlife, and diverse cultures. Whether you’re traveling with friends, your partner, or family, Sydney is the perfect destination that offers something for everyone. If you are looking forward to planning your own getaway to this magnificent city as soon as possible, read on to learn more about the different things you can do in Sydney as well as its top attractions, hotels, restaurants and bars.
Plan Your Trip
If you’re traveling with a partner, a family, or a group of friends, it’s best to plan ahead, so you can get the most out of your trip. When planning your trip, consider these factors:
Figure out how long you’ll be staying in Sydney. This factor is crucial because it will help you plan your itinerary. If you’re traveling solo, then a week-long stay in Sydney with its various activities and sights should be enough. On the other hand, if you’re traveling as a group, you may want to extend your stay to two weeks, so you can enjoy more of Sydney’s attractions and activities.
Choose your preferred travel dates. You can choose whatever dates you want, but you have to keep in mind that you may have to deal with crowds on certain days. Major holidays can be really crowded, especially in Sydney since it’s a top tourist destination.
Choose your preferred mode of transport. If you’re traveling with a large group, then it’s best to opt for a mini coach hire service. You may also want to think about booking a Sydney Harbour Cruise as it’s one of the most popular ways to see Sydney while on a cruise.
Ride a ferry in Sydney
One of the best things to do in Sydney is to ride a ferry across the harbour. There are a few ferry companies that offer water transport in Sydney, but the best one is the Sydney Harbour Ferry.
When to ride: Anytime. The best time to ride a ferry in Sydney is at sunset, but you can ride it at any time of the day.
Where to ride: The best place to ride a ferry in Sydney is right in front of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can also ride a ferry at Darling Harbour or the Pyrmont Bay Wharf.
Why you should ride a ferry in Sydney: Riding a ferry in Sydney is one of the best things to do in Sydney because you get to see the city from a different perspective. Ferries also offer great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour.
Go to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia and one of the best things to do in Sydney. You can get to the top of the bridge via a lift or climb the stairs.
When to go: Anytime. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Where to go: The best place to go to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is near the southern end of the bridge on the west walkway.
Why you should go to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge: Going to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the best things to do in Sydney because it offers stunning panoramic views of the harbour and Sydney. You get a 360-degree view of the city from the top of the bridge, including views of the iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the most beautiful gardens in the world and one of the best things to do in Sydney. The gardens also host various events and exhibitions from time to time, so you may want to check their website before going there.
When to visit: Anytime. The Royal Botanic Gardens is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day.
Where to visit: The best place to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens is in the Gardens Walk.
Why you should visit the Royal Botanic Gardens: Visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the best things to do in Sydney because it’s one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. The gardens feature a wide range of native Australian plants and trees, as well as a spectacular view of the harbour.
Walk along the Harbourside Walkway
The Harbourside Walkway is a walking trail that runs parallel to the Sydney Harbour and is one of the best things to do in Sydney. The walkway offers some of the most breathtaking views of the harbour, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.
When to walk: You can walk along the Harbourside Walkway anytime during the day or night.
When to go to the Sydney Harbour Bridge: You can visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge anytime during the day or night.
Where to walk: The best place to walk along the Harbourside Walkway is near the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Where to visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge: The best place to visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge is near the southern end of the bridge on the west walkway.
Why you should walk along the Harbourside Walkway: Walking along the Harbourside Walkway is one of the best things to do in Sydney because it’s a beautiful walking trail that offers stunning views of the harbour. You can walk the walkway at any time of the day or night even if you’re traveling solo as it’s a very safe place to walk at any time of the day or night.
Explore The Rocks
The Rocks is one of Australia’s oldest neighborhoods and one of the best things to do in Sydney. It’s a truly unique place where you can get a glimpse of what colonial Australia was like centuries ago. You can find some of Australia’s oldest buildings and attractions in The Rocks.
When to go: Anytime.
Where to go: The best place to explore The Rocks is near The Rocks Discovery Museum.
Why you should visit The Rocks: Visiting The Rocks is one of the best things to do in Sydney because it’s one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Australia. The Rocks is home to some of Australia’s oldest buildings, so it offers a glimpse into colonial Australia.
Travel to Bondi Beach via ferry and train
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Australia and one of the best things to do in Sydney. The best way to get to Bondi Beach is by taking a ferry from Sydney Harbour and then a train to Bondi Beach. When to go: Anytime. Where to go: The best place to go to Bondi Beach is by taking a ferry from Sydney Harbour and then a train to Bondi Beach. Why you should go to Bondi Beach: Going to Bondi Beach is one of the best things to do in Sydney because it’s one of the most famous beaches in Australia. Bondi Beach is one of the most popular and most visited beaches in Australia with more than 3 million people visiting it each year.
Final Words
Sydney is a beautiful coastal city that offers a rich blend of modern culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse nature. If you’re thinking of traveling to Sydney, then be sure to check out this travel guide to learn more about things you can do and places you can visit while in Sydney.
We recommend you read our guide about where to stay in Sydney. It provides an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
If you like our list of hostels and accommodations in Sydney, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Melbourne or the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur.