Where to Stay in Sydney: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

Wondering where to stay in Sydney? Looking for the best areas and districts?

You’re at the right place!

As I know Sydney very well, I have created this guide of:

• Sydney’s best areas for your stay (with details about the best places to visit and nearby attractions)
• For each area and district, the best hotels depending on your budget

Let’s find your dream hotel now!

My favorite hotels in Sydney

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels in Sydney, in case you don’t have time to read my detailed article.

Simply click on the hotel names in orange to access details and rates:

• Where to stay in Sydney for sightseeing: Ace Hotel Sydney, located in the financial center of Sydney, the heart of the city!
• The best hotel and area in Sydney for partying: 202 Elizabeth, in the middle of the lively Surri Hills district
• Best 5* hotel in Sydney: W Sydney, with a prime location, incredible views, and the best swimming pool in town!
• Where to stay in Sydney on a budget: Tequila Sunrise Hostel Sydney, budget and breakfast included
• The best family-friendly hotel in Sydney: The Grace Hotel, with pool and close proximity to the best attractions for kids in Sydney
• My favorite Sydney hotel for a romantic stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, featuring a pool and a beautiful view of the bay at sunset.

In Central Business District

As the name suggests, the Central Business District (CBD) is downtown Sydney.

It’s a cultural, commercial, and financial hub with large modern buildings along the bay.

Vibrant and bustling at all hours, the district boasts numerous shops, malls, and plenty of restaurants.

If you’re looking for where to stay in Sydney’s center, this is the perfect spot as you can easily get around using public transportation or walking to the city’s other must-visit neighborhoods during your stay.

I recommend this district for your stay in Sydney:

• Because it’s an excellent starting point to see the main tourist sites
• If you love to shop
• If you’re looking for a lively area.

The district is ideal for discovering:

• Sydney Opera House: the city’s most iconic building!
• Royal Botanic Gardens: a vast park stretching along the bay, next to the opera house
• Sydney Tower Eye, the observation tower offering a 360° panorama of the entire city
• St Mary’s Cathedral Sydney, a magnificent Gothic-style church built in the 19th century
• George Street: one of Sydney’s busiest streets, lined with shops
• Hyde Park: a beautifully maintained and well-shaded park, home to the Anzac Memorial and the Archibald Fountain
• Queen Victoria Building: a stunning 19th-century building housing a shopping center
• the Museum of Sydney, on colonial and First Nations history
• The Australian Museum, a natural history museum.

Where to Stay in Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD)?

• The Sydney Boulevard Hotel: Located 400 meters from the Sydney Botanical Gardens. Large, bright rooms with excellent views. From 120$ per night, breakfast a 26$. Strong points: Buffet breakfast, sauna and 24-hour reception.
• Meriton Suites Sussex Street: These suites are 500 meters from the Australian Museum. With an industrial and modern touch, this accommodation has everything for short and long stays. Price per night from 150$. Strong points: Full kitchen, gym and indoor pool. A great choice for its excellent value for money!
• Ace Hotel Sydney: Located between Surry Hills and CBD, you’ll have the best of both worlds. Double room from $190 per night. Strong points: Free bike loan, luggage storage, excellent breakfast, adapted for people with reduced mobility.
• Sir Stamford Circular Quay: 5-star hotel a 5-minute walk from the famous Sydney Opera House. Not the most modern hotel, but the location is unbeatable. Price per night from $190, breakfast $24. Strong points: Views of the Botanic Gardens, swimming pool, gym.
• Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park: Luxury hotel in front of Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral and 5 minutes from Sydney Eye Tower. Modern and sober rooms with excellent bedding. Price per night from 250$, breakfast for 33$. Strong points: Absolutely central location, 24-hour gym, indoor pool. My favorite hotel for a luxury getaway in the center of Sydney!

In The Rocks district

The Rocks is the historic district to stay in Sydney.

Surrounded by skyscrapers, it actually occupies only a small part of the Central Business District, right opposite the Sydney Opera House.

Formerly a sailors’ quarter and one of the first settlements, it has retained all its authenticity with its 19th-century buildings full of charm and perfectly restored.

For me, it’s one of the best areas to stay in Sydney for its pleasant atmosphere, resembling a small village in a large city.

You’ll find plenty of small shops and boutiques there.

This area is ideal for accommodation in Sydney:

• To easily get around the city
• To immerse yourself in Sydney’s history
• If you’re looking for a traditional neighborhood
• For walking around and enjoying the magnificent view of the opera house.

In The Rocks district, you can visit:

• The Rocks Market to stock up on local produce and discover typical crafts
• A cruise in Sydney Harbour
• The Rocks Discovery Museum: a free museum about the history of the district
• The Circular Quay: a beautiful pedestrian promenade with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
• The Museum of Contemporary Art with its collection of works from not only Australia but around the world.
• Cadman’s Cottage: the oldest house in Sydney, built in 1816.

Here are my top hotel picks in The Rocks district

• Palisade Hotel: Beautiful accommodation located 800 meters from Circular Quay. Some suites overlook the bay, the rooms are bright and warm. Prices start at 155$. Strong points: Good restaurant and bar in the hotel, terraces, beautiful views. Definitely my top pick for its excellent value for money in Circular Quay!
• The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney: Located 5 minutes from the Museum of Contemporary Art. Modern, spacious and well-equipped suites. Price per night from 170 $, breakfast 23 $. Strengths: Location, full kitchen, restaurant, bar and pool.
• Shangri-La Sydney: Located 400 meters from Cadman’s Cottagge and other attractions. The interiors are spacious and sober, and the views of the bay are spectacular. Price per night from 220$, (excellent) breakfast 41$. Strong points: The decor, the friendliness of the staff, the views.
• Four Seasons Hotel Sydney: The perfect choice between The Rocks and downtown Sydney, it is a stone’s throw from Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Garden. Elegant, quiet rooms. Starting from 270$ per night, breakfast at 37 $. Strong points: Prime location, spa, fitness center and a delicious restaurant. An excellent choice for a romantic stay in the center of Sydney!
• Park Hyatt Sydney: If you’re looking for a luxurious and carefree stay, this 5-star hotel is all you need. Located 5 minutes from Circular Quay, it has a privileged view of the Sydney Opera House. Modern rooms, comfortable beds and private balcony. Double room starting from 700$ per night. Strong points: Spa, exceptional restaurant and free airport transfer. My favorite hotel for a luxury stay in The Rocks area (Sydney)!

In Darling Harbour district

Darling Harbour is located to the west of the Central Business District and also runs along Sydney Bay.

It’s a rather upscale neighborhood bustling with numerous high-end restaurants and trendy bars.

It’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s most beautiful luxury hotels.

You’ll love this area:

• If you have a certain budget
• If you want to indulge in excellent restaurants and hotels
• For a family stay as there are plenty of attractions that your children will enjoy

In Darling Harbour district, you shouldn’t miss:

• Sydney Aquarium: home to 13,000 animals, it’s one of the largest aquariums in the world
• Madame Tussauds Museum and its lifelike wax figures of celebrities
• The Australian National Maritime Museum, about the maritime history of Australia. It houses a submarine, a destroyer, and other ships.
• WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo where you can meet kangaroos, wombats, and koalas
• King Street Wharf: a hot spot with plenty of terrace restaurants along the bay
• Chinese Garden of Friendship built to symbolize the friendship between Sydney and the city of Guangzhou in China.

The best hotels to stay at in Darling Harbour (Sydney)

• Aiden by Best Western Darling Harbour: Located just 100 meters from the National Maritime Museum, in an Art Deco building. Cozy and sophisticated rooms starting at 170$, with breakfast for 15$. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff, good breakfast, and tranquility.
• Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour, an IHG hotel: Only a 10-minute walk from the Sydney Aquarium. Spacious rooms with contemporary decor starting at 200$ per night, breakfast for 25$. Strong points: outdoor pool, gym, good restaurant, vegan breakfast available.
• The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney: A 1km walk from Madame Tussauds. Double rooms starting from 240$ per night. Strong points: 2 pools, great views, public transport near the hotel. This is a beautiful hotel for a romantic stay in Sydney!
• The Darling at The Star: Luxury hotel located 20 minutes on foot from King Street Wharf, within The Star complex. Double room from 260$ per night, breakfast for 30$. Strong points: the casino, excellent bedding, Turkish bath, valet service, numerous restaurants and bars.
• W Sydney: Located in the heart of the Bay, a 5-minute walk from the Chinese Garden of Friendship. This 5-star hotel offers stunning city-view rooms starting at 310$, breakfast for 34$. Strong points: an impressive view of the bay, superb indoor pool, extraordinary breakfast. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Sydney!

In Surry Hills District

Surry Hills is located to the South of Sydney’s city center.

It’s the district of hipsters and artists, home to numerous art galleries, independent boutiques, and festivals.

It’s also one of the best districts for going out at night, to have a drink and enjoy live music.

I recommend Surry Hills district for staying in Sydney:

• If you’re goint to Sydney with friends
• To enjoy the lively nightlife
• If you like bohemian vibes.

Surry Hills district is ideal for discovering:

• Crown Street: known for its excellent cafes and restaurants
• Prince Alfred Park and its playgrounds
• The many art galleries
• The trendy bars.

The Best Places to Stay in Surry Hills District

• 57Hotel: Located a 7-minute walk from Crown Street. Modern double rooms starting at 149$ per night. Strong points: free coffee all day, close to bars and restaurants, friendly staff. The best hotel for a stay in Surry Hills without breaking the bank!
• Adge Hotel and Residences: Situated in the heart of the lively district. Colorful double rooms starting at 170$ per night. Strong points: psychedelic decor, professional staff, super comfortable.
• 202 Elizabeth: 300 meters from Central Station. Double room with king-size bed from 190$ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: speedy check-in and check-out, ideal location, super friendly staff.
• Zara Tower – Luxury Suites and Apartments: 5-star hotel located 5 minutes from the Central Station. You’ll stay in stylish, minimalist double rooms with large windows starting from 200$ per night. Strong points: attentive staff, airport shuttle, facilities.

In Bondi Beach Area

You should consider staying in Bondi Beach if you’re looking to enjoy the beach during your trip to Sydney.

Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in Sydney, but it’s a bit out of the way. This means you’ll need to use public transport every time you want to go somewhere else.

But if you love surfing and strolls along seaside trails, it can be a good option for you.

Hotels to Stay Near the Beach in Sydney

• The Village Bondi Beach: Recently renovated hostel just 2 minutes from Bondi Beach. Double room starting at 110$, shared dormitory bed starting from 45$. Strong points: Proximity to the beach, the ambiance, cleanliness.
• Wake Up! Bondi Beach: Beachfront location. Double room from 130$ per night, shared dormitory from 55$. Strong points: Free surfboard rental, activities to meet other guests, terrace, bar. This is a great choice for your stay in Bondi Beach!
• QT Bondi: 100 meters from the beach. Spacious and modern studios starting at 215$ per night. Highlights: Kitchenette, beach views, spacious bathrooms.
• Hotel Ravesis: Only a 3-minute walk to Bondi Beach. Spacious double rooms with views starting from 250$. Strong points: the balcony, the comfort of the bedding. My recommendation for a stay near the beach in Sydney!

Where to Stay in Sydney on a Budget

If you’re on a tighter budget, here’s a selection of some affordable hotels in Sydney:

• Tequila Sunrise Hostel Sydney: Centrally located. Individual capsule from 55$, double for 80$ per night. Breakfast and dinner included! Strong points: Central location, shared kitchen, rooms with living area. A great choice for budget-friendly accommodation in Sydney.
• Darlo Bar Darlinghurst: Near Surry Hills and the CBD. Comfortable and cozy double room from 80$ per night. Highlights: Bar on the first floor offering a welcome drink and quality food, friendly staff.
• Wake Up! Sydney Central: Located in the CBD area. Double room from 100$ per night, shared dormitory bed from 40$, breakfast for an additional 7$. Strong points: Bar, restaurant, 24/7 reception. Another great address for budget accommodation in Sydney.
• YHA Sydney Harbour: Situated in The Rocks neighborhood, close to Circular Quay. Double room for 160$ per night, shared dormitory bed (breakfast included) from 50$. Strong points: The gorgeous view of Sydney Opera House from the roof, laundry facility, free coffee and tea, location.

Where to stay in Sydney with Family

• Pullman Sydney Airport: Located near the airport and 500 meters from Mascot station. Spacious double room with two single beds from 170$ per night, breakfast at 20$. Strong points: Friendly staff with children, comfortable beds, restaurant, airport shuttle.
• Hyde Park Inn: At the heart of the financial center, 2 minutes from Hyde Park. Large room with two single beds and one double bed from 220$ per night including breakfast in the room. Strong points: Free parking, great location surrounded by shops, full breakfast. One of the best places to stay in Sydney with family.
• The Grace Hotel: Located downtown, 300 meters from Sydney Aquarium, set in a magnificent historic building. Family room with two single beds and one double bed from 380$ per night. Strong points: Close to kid-friendly activities, pool, gym, and room service. The best hotel for a family stay in Sydney!

What is the best hotel in Sydney?

If you are looking for the best hotel in Sydney, I recommend you the W Sydney.

And if you’re looking for something a little more affordable but still luxurious, you shoud book a night or more at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.

Where to stay in Sydney: The best hotels

To give you a better overview of the best hotels in Sydney, whether in the city center or elsewhere, I’ve prepared a table summarizing all the ones I talk about in this article. You can sort them by price or by district!

Hotel	District	Price (from)
The Sydney Boulevard Hotel	Central Business District	120$
Meriton Suites Sussex Street	Central Business District	150$
Ace Hotel Sydney	Central Business District	190$
Sir Stamford Circular Quay	Central Business District	190$
Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park	Central Business District	250$
Hotel Palisade	The Rocks	155$
The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney	The Rocks	170$
Shangri-La Sydney	The Rocks	220$
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney	The Rocks	270$
Park Hyatt Sydney	The Rocks	700$
Aiden by Best Western Darling Harbour	Darling Harbour	170$
Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour	Darling Harbour	200$
The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney	Darling Harbour	240$
The Darling at The Star	Darling Harbour	260$
W Sydney	Darling Harbour	310$
57Hotel	Surry Hills	150$
Adge Hotel and Residences	Surry Hills	170$
202 Elizabeth	Surry Hills	190$
Zara Tower – Luxury Suites and Apartments	Surry Hills	200$
The Village Bondi Beach	Bondi Beach	110$
Wake Up! Bondi Beach	Bondi Beach	130$
QT Bondi	Bondi Beach	215$
Hotel Ravesis	Bondi Beach	250$
Tequila Sunrise Hostel Sydney	Cheap Hotel	55$
Wake Up! Sydney Central	Cheap Hotel	40$
Darlo Bar Darlinghurst	Cheap Hotel	80$
YHA Sydney Harbour	Cheap Hotel	160$
Pullman Sydney Airport	Hotel for families	170$
Hyde Park Inn	Hotel for families	220$
The Grace Hotel	Hotel for families	380$

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