You can't really go wrong with a holiday to Sydney. With stunning beaches, a thriving food scene and a seamless blend of sleek modernity and ancient aboriginal heritage, it offers plenty for every type of traveller. In this blog, we'll help you decide which Sydney hotel to book and provide some helpful tips to help you plan your trip to Sydney whether you're there:
- For business
- On a family trip
- With your other half
- Partying with friends
- On a solo adventure
Because we do provide an exhaustive list of the best hotels in Sydney, we've provided some hyperlinks below so if you're short on time, you can jump to the section most relevant to you! We'll cover:
- Why is Sydney so famous?
- Is Sydney cheap or expensive?
- Is 3 days enough for Sydney?
- Where's the best area to stay in Sydney?
- The best hotels in Sydney CBD
- The best boutique hotels in Sydney
- The best 5 star hotels in Sydney
- The best family hotels in Sydney Australia
- The best affordable hotels in Sydney
- The best beach hotels in Sydney Australia
Why is Sydney so famous?
Well, first and foremost Sydney is definitely most known for its iconic Opera House and stunning harbour. Along with Melbourne, they are the jewels of Australia and usually on every travellers bucket list who's planning a trip there thanks to their access to Australia's unique nature and also excellent coffee. Sydney is also known for its stunning beaches and is home to one of the most famous beaches in the world, Bondi Beach.
Is Sydney cheap or expensive?
Sadly, Sydney is known for being more of a pricier holiday destination. But as with anywhere, if you look around hard enough you can find budget-friendly options for just about anything including happy-hour cocktails, street food, cheap and cheerful hostels and much more!
Is 3 days enough for Sydney?
Three days in Sydney can definitely be enough to get a taste of what it has to offer. You can hit the highlights like:
- The Sydney Opera House
- Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Bondi Beach
- The trendy neighbourhoods of Surry Hills and Newtown
- The Art Gallery of New South Wales
We'd also recommend spending a day exploring the bustling CBD (Central Business District) which is the place to be for theatre shows, cute bars and great shops. Once you've explored, stop for a classic Aussie brunch before visiting the beloved Sydney Zoo to marvel at over 4,000 animals including endangered species. If you have time, try and take a day trip outside of the city to explore the breathtaking nature nearby.
Where's the best area to stay in Sydney?
When deciding the best area to stay in Sydney, of course it will depend on what you're wanting to get out of your Sydney trip. Do you want luxury or views of the Opera House? Perhaps you're a solo traveller looking to socialise or a nature lover who wants to be within easy reach of wildlife. Thankfully, Sydney is a huge and has plenty of options that cater to all those needs. Check out Sydney's districts below to see which one is the best fit for you:
- The Rocks: Historic charm with iconic harbour views.
- Darling Harbour: Family-friendly fun and entertainment hub.
- Surry Hills: Trendy cafes and vibrant culture.
- Bondi Beach: Sun, surf, and coastal lifestyle.
- Newtown: Bohemian vibes and eclectic nightlife.
- Manly: Beachside serenity with outdoor adventures.
- Potts Point: Boutique elegance and artistic flair.
The 16 Best Hotels In Sydney Australia
The best hotels in Sydney CBD
The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: 420 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £200 per night
The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney offers priceless views over the harbour as well as a top-notch swimming pool and fitness centre. Popular points of interest near the hotel include the Sydney Opera House, The Royal Botanic Gardens and Hyde Park Barracks Museum. You can even bring your pup along!
Hyatt Regency Sydney
Rating: ★★★★
Address:161 Sussex Street, Sydney, 2000, AU
Average Price: £75 per night
Another hotel option in Sydney CBD is the Hyatt Regency Sydney. Great for business travellers, this sleek Sydney hotel boasts 4,000 square metres of modern meeting and event space. Even if you don't decide to book a night at this Sydney hotel, make sure you stop by for a drink at its Zephyr rooftop bar that offers sensational rooftop views of Sydney and the Darling Harbour.
The Grace Hotel
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 77 York St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £230 per night
A beautifully restored heritage building turned Sydney hotel. The Grace Hotel is praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff and relaxing heated indoor pool.
The best 5 Star Hotels in Sydney
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: 30 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £310 per night
With its prime location by Circular Quay, this Marriott hotel in Sydney offers luxurious rooms and incredible views of Sydney Harbour, making it an excellent choice for tourists, business travellers but also Sydney locals who fancy a night away in a high-end setting.
The Langham, Sydney
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: 89-113 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £340 per night
A high-rise hotel in the heart of Sydney, The Langham offers opulent rooms and all the amenities you can expect from a five star hotel in Sydney including a spa, fitness centre, multiple dining options and free parking. You can even find bath salts in the rooms to add to your relaxing bubble bath!
SKYE Hotel Suites Parramatta
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: 30 Hunter Street, Parramatta, 2150, AU
Average Price: £143 per night
This luxury aparthotel offers amenities like a gym, swimming pool, and 24-hour front desk. It's within a 10-minute drive of Accor Stadium and Qudos Bank Arena, providing a comfortable stay with Egyptian cotton sheets and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Capella Sydney
Rating: ★★★★★
Address: 24 Loftus Street, Sydney, 2000, AU
Average Price: £402 per night
Situated in the heart of Sydney, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Circular Quay. It features a business center, conference space, and a FREE full breakfast. Guests enjoy elegant rooms with pillow-top beds and Frette Italian sheets, along with an incredible restaurant and 24-hour room service.
The Best Boutique Hotels in Sydney
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 6 Cowper Wharf Rd, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011, Australia
Average Price: £270 per night
This chic boutique hotel in Sydney has a modern design and a vibrant atmosphere, located near Sydney’s waterfront and within easy reach of key attractions.
Hotel Morris Sydney - Handwritten Collection
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 412 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £141 per night
Description: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Sydney, offering updated, clean rooms with modern amenities. Located near Central Station, it features a vibrant atmosphere with a popular bar and dining options, perfect for travellers looking to explore the city.
Crystalbrook Albion
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 21 Little Albion St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Average Price: £250 per night
Housed in a restored former convent in the trendy Surry Hills area, this chic boutique hotel in Sydney offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Located just 11-minutes from Central train station and 3 km from the Sydney Opera House, it features stylish rooms, free breakfast, and a welcoming pet-friendly policy.
The Best Family Hotels in Sydney Australia
The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 98 Gloucester St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £260 per night
Description: Ideal for families, this Sydney hotel features spacious suites with kitchen facilities and an indoor pool, all within walking distance of major attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
ibis Sydney Darling Harbour
Rating: ★★★
Address: 70 Murray St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Average Price: £180 per night
Overlooking Darling Harbour, this modern hotel is perfect for families looking to explore Sydney. Its proximity to popular attractions like Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and the International Convention Centre makes it ideal for family outings. The hotel offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities, along with upgraded rooms featuring stunning harbour views. The casual restaurant serves international buffet-style meals, catering to both children and adults, while the contemporary bar/lounge provides a relaxing space for parents.
Holiday Inn Express Sydney Macquarie Park, an IHG Hotel
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 10 Byfield St, Macquarie Park NSW 2113, Australia
Average Price: £120 per night
This casual, modern hotel is an excellent choice for families visiting Sydney. Located near the Macquarie Centre shopping mall and easily accessible from the M2 motorway, families will appreciate the free breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi, and the laid-back bistro with a terrace. The hotel’s gym allows parents to stay active, while the child-friendly policies ensure a welcoming environment. The streamlined rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities, making it a great base for family adventures in and around Sydney.
The Best Affordable Hotels in Sydney
Nomads Sydney
Rating: ★★★
Address: 477 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Average Price: £35 per night
Perfect for budget-conscious travellers, this cheap hostel in Sydney's Central Business District offers affordable accommodation just a short walk from key attractions like Darling Harbour and the Sydney Opera House. Nomads Sydney provides free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and a convenient location near public transport. While basic, the hostel offers essential amenities such as a restaurant and communal kitchen facilities, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and travellers looking to save on accommodation without sacrificing a central location.
ibis budget St Peters
Rating: ★★★
Address: 178 Princes Hwy, St Peters NSW 2044, Australia
Average Price: £45 per night
Conveniently located near Sydney Airport and a short drive from key attractions like Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Darling Harbour, ibis budget St Peters offers no-frills accommodation at an affordable rate. This budget hotel features straightforward, clean rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and tea and coffee making facilities. Some rooms include bunk beds, ideal for families or groups. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet for an additional fee, and the hotel is committed to sustainability with energy-efficient practices and eco-friendly amenities.
The Best Beach Hotels in Sydney Australia
Coogee Bay Hotel
Rating: ★★★★
Address: 9 Vicar St, Coogee NSW 2034, Australia
Average Price: £190 per night
Located right on Coogee Beach, this beach hotel in Sydney offers picturesque ocean views and easy access to the sand and surf, perfect for a seaside getaway.
Where Will You Stay in Sydney?
From exploring iconic landmarks, surfing the waves on Bondi to immersing yourself in the local lifestyle, there's no doubt that Sydney will leave you with incredible travel memories no matter what you're seeking from your holiday. So pack your bags, choose the best Sydney hotel, and get ready for a remarkable holiday in this magnificent Australian city.
Gift a Hotel in Sydney with a Hotel Gift Certificate
Are you looking for the best way to gift a night away to a loved one? Perhaps you're gift shopping for a:
Whatever the occasion, our hotel gift cards are the answer. Not only can you add your own photo and write a message but you can send it all over the world completely free thanks to our multiple hotel gift card formats: eGifts, PDF and luxury gift cards. Once they get their hotel gift certificate, they can redeem it on over 750,000 hotels worldwide including Ireland, Egypt, Switzerland, Blackpool and France! They'll have 2 whole years to redeem it but the memories will last forever.