In a world where international travel is scarce, we’re taking solace in finding adventure in our own city, whether that means escaping to a secluded beach or wrapping ourselves in plush robes in a foreign room. Sydney’s hotels are iconic and luxurious. There is The Langham, the recently opened Crown Sydney, and the traveller’s favourite. Sofitel.
While they are all well and good, the harbour city is also home to hidden laneway gems, eclectic finds and repurposed heritage buildings. So whether you’re after plush comforts, trendy digs or harbour views, here are the best hotels in Sydney.
Porter House Hotel
CBD
This sleek new boutique hotel occupies the first ten floors of a 36-storey mixed-use tower within the re-imagined Porter House precinct. The interior pays homage to its history and Sydney’s bustling Victorian commercial era with a modern take on old designs and contemporary curved windows that reference the building’s iconic brick archways. The hotel is just steps away from Hyde Park, the QVB, and Pitt Street Mall, making it a great choice for travellers looking for a central CBD base. The rooms are bright and elegant and are available in a range of configurations, from king beds to two single beds. Make use of the fitness centre and outdoor heated swimming pool and indulge in the three unique hospitality destinations, including Henry’s Bread and Wine or Dixson and Sons.
Capella Sydney
CBD
For generations, the Department of Education building in Sydney’s Sandstone Precinct has stood quietly, its golden facade forming an unassuming backdrop to the city’s rhythm. Reawakening as Capella Sydney in March 2023, the heritage-listed icon will welcome guests inside its walls for the very first time, setting a global benchmark for luxury accommodation, cuisine and cultural immersion. Embedding visitors in the beating heart of the city’s commercial, cultural and hospitality precinct, Capella Sydney also marks the first property under the Capella Hotels and Resorts constellation to open in Australia. Spanning eight levels, the 192 guestrooms and suites are anchored by three ground-level food and beverage outlets, with spaces throughout the hotel unfurling to reveal commissioned and collected artworks, sophisticated furnishings and intriguing objet d’art.
Manly Pacific Hotel
Manly
The Manly Pacific Hotel has just undergone a $30M transformation, turning its drab, outdated reputation into a bespoke wellness experience by the beach. The refurbished hotel will feature 213 rooms, an exclusive residence, and nine suites. The hotel’s fresh facelift is curated by Coco Republic and will feature natural materials and colours, including travertine stone tables and blue-grey hues of bedding and furnishings. Guests will find themselves in a coastal paradise, yet only 20 minutes from the Sydney CBD. The hotel was fully unveiled in January, and you can book a room here.
A by Adina
CBD
If you’re after a central location and place to call home for a few nights, then A by Adina is where you want to be. This new hotel in the heart of Sydney’s CBD is perfect for business travellers. They offer studio, executive, one and two-bedroom apartments, some with kitchenettes and all with floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. It’s like having your very own high-end apartment. A by Adina is also crowned with a sexy bar from the team behind Maybe Sammy— Dean and Nancy’s on 22. Retreat upstairs for a cocktail and bites before sinking into a cloud-like bed for the night. IN the morning, you can stroll over to Sammy Jr for coffee or indulge in room service.
Book here.
Aiden Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour
The Aiden Darling Harbour is part of the Best Western portfolio, but you won’t find outdated carpets and lumpy beds here. Instead, this eight-storey boutique hotel is fitted with the lashings of a luxury hotel. Its 1930s Art Deco bones are celebrated in the building along with art by Jessica Le Clerc, which is a statement in every room. Speaking of rooms, the hotel doesn’t hide that it’s small. In fact, the word compact is mentioned several times, and if you consider the price, it’s a great option for a short city stay. Each room boasts a big, pillowy soft bed, a plush velvet bedhead, and a modern bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony, others have city views. This luxury boutique hotel is the perfect base for your city adventures. Be sure to take advantage of the Wayfarer’s Bar and Cafe downstairs for breakfast, custom tipples, and more.
Book here.
The Langham Sydney
Millers Point
The Langham is the Caesars Palace of Sydney. Here, everything is about being extra, from the little finger sandwiches at afternoon tea to the painted sky ceiling in the pool area. This is no cheap stay, but it is one that keeps true to the saying “you get what you pay for.” At best, you will spend $430/night, but this price drastically increases depending on room type. Still, you get the prime position of Millers Point, all the luxuries you could want and an observatory bar serving Australia’s most romantic cocktail: The Pink Rose.
Book here.
Pier One
Walsh Bay
Set in a repurposed heritage building, Pier One offers five-star luxury on the waterfront, but with an affordable price tag. The style is modern, without being overly stuffy. The rooms are approachable and comfortable, and some have views of the Harbour Bridge. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy empire, booking here will also earn you points if you’re a member. If not, Pier One is still an ideal option for those seeking affordable luxury.
Book here.
Crown Sydney
Barangaroo
Aptly named, the Crown Sydney sitting harbourside in Barangaroo is quickly earning a reputation as the crown of Sydney’s hotel scene. Its sparkling spire has caught the eyes of many, but for those wanting to step inside the high roller, life will have to pay up–$940 to be exact. Although that’s the minimum for a Harbour View King Room. The tower offers a multitude of dining concepts from the renowned Nobu to local Chefs experimenting with wood and a 12-seat omakase room in the back. This is a splurge, but given you had to cancel that trip to Italy last summer, it might be worth it.
Book here.
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Woolloomooloo
If you’ve never stayed at an Ovolo hotel, keep it in mind for your next staycation or holiday. Ovolo has a knack for making everything cool. Their Woolloomooloo site sits on Finger Wharf and channels a young, energetic, boutique and cheeky vibe. The exposed wooden beams and timber flooring from bygone days is mixed with bright, modern furnishings and technology scattered throughout. There are even rockstar suites: the INXS and AC/DC rooms. However, Ovolo’s most favourable assets are the freebies: minibar and social happy hour. What more could you want?
Book here.
Little Albion
Surry Hills
Walking down a laneway in Surry Hills, you wouldn’t expect to find a designer hotel, nonetheless, Little Albion awaits, and no two rooms are the same. The boutique hotel embodies more of a local guest-house experience than a hotel room. Each room has its own identity, whether it’s getting lost in the romance of blush pink velvet or cosying up to a mix of 20s and 70s textures—Little Albion is a true hidden gem.
Book here.
QT Sydney
CBD
Art Deco lovers rejoice, QT Sydney is every Gatsby and Daisy’s dream stay. After all, who doesn’t love decadence? The rooms are dramatic, clad in colours and texture. Its prime location on Market Street makes it a popular choice for those looking to explore Sydney’s restaurants, shopping, and Harbour life. Best of all, you can book a room for as little as $250/night. Given its offerings, that’s not a bad price for a Sydney hotel.
Book here.
Watsons Bay Hotel
Watsons Bay
Watsons Bay Hotel is packed most weekends with Vaucluse residents sipping rosé, but above the pub is a hotel, resembling a Hamptons-chic lodging. Here, they embrace the slow life. Breakfast becomes brunch, long barefoot strolls on the sand are considered productive and sundowner sippers turn to lavish seafood dinners under the stars. Here, travellers unplug and escape reality even if for a night. This hotel is also a splurge at $360/night minimum.
Book here.
Pullman Quay Grand Sydney
Circular Quay
In terms of location, you can’t beat Pullman Quay Grand in Circular Quay. On one side you have views of the Harbour Bridge and the other is occupied by the Opera House and within close walking distance to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Inside, you will find luxury apartment-style rooms, equipped with a kitchen, laundry, and separate dining, lounge areas. Because it is a luxury hotel, the price is upwards of $300/night, however, if you’re looking for a prime location, this is one of the best places to book and you will love the views.
Book here.
Hotel Palisade
Millers Point
Most will know Hotel Palisade as a historic pub; a place to get a pint with friends. Although a fresh coat of paint, luxury furnishings and rooftop bar transformed the pub into a destination. Sandwiched between the ground floor pub and rooftop bar, are eight rooms filled with natural light. Quarters are tight, given the building’s structure, but most rooms include a queen or king bed and marble-tiled federation-style ensuites. The hand-painted wall murals in each room almost make you forget there is no in-room Wifi or air conditioning. Although for $200/night, it’s a good option if you want to experience a piece of history and a prime Sydney location.
Book here.
Felix Hotel
Mascot
Airport hotels are beginning to look nothing like an airport hotel and travellers are loving it. The TWA in New York stunned visitors, now the Felix Hotel is channelling the golden era of air travel. Gone are the days of drab colours and monotone hallways. Today, it’s all about millennial pinks, bright pastels, and creature comforts. There’s a 24-hour grab and go restaurant with sushi, sandwiches and organic beverages, a gym and cocktail bar. Price varies on the tier, which ranges from economy to first class. Business travellers can also take full advantage of the workspaces.
Book here.
Sofitel Sydney
Darling Harbour
This hotel oozes French luxury, which is not surprising given it carries the name Sofitel. Think deep-soaking tubs with Darling Harbour views, lavish suites, a French restaurant and a pool bar. Its central location is popular among travellers and the locals seem to enjoy the amenities and staycation vibes. Although a room will set you back $350/night at the minimum and that’s for a standard room. Suites are much more, but if you get a corner room, they’re larger and have the best views through floor-to-ceiling-windows.
Book here.
QT Bondi
Bondi
This seaside breezy hotel in Bondi attracts the uber-hip crowd and travellers looking to stay in Bondi for a reasonable price. Managed by the quirky QT Brand, expect chic mellow, meets art, meets bold colours and a sense of salty cool. The family-friendly hotel is situated near Bronte and Bondi Beach, the main shopping district and several restaurants, of which the reception is happy to recommend. A king room will set you back around $260/night, but if you become a member, you can get cheaper rates and perks.
Book here.
Veriu Broadway
CBD
Converted into a hotel from a former leather factory warehouse, this hotel combines both industrial and contemporary style attracting wayward travellers. Rooms on the first three floors have exposed beam high ceilings and polished concrete floors while rooms on higher levels offer fresh modern décor and views of the CBD. A custom made zinc roof –the largest of this style dome in Australia—completes the hotel’s unique look. All suites are equipped with fully functional kitchens, making them perfect for short and longer stays. Veriu also has several other locations including Randwick, Central, Camperdown, and Green Square.
Book here.
West Hotel
Barangaroo
Hilton hotels are world-renowned so we would be amiss if we didn’t mention at least one. West Hotel has a vintage, botanical vibe in the heart of Sydney’s newest neighbourhood, Barangaroo. The 182 designer rooms and suites are equipped for the busy traveller, but can also be an option for a romantic staycation. After all, we can’t get to the tropical destinations at the moment. Enjoy delicious Australian cuisine at Solander, where the vibe is relaxed and casual. The terrazzo marble bar also has major botanical vibes.
Book here.
Ovolo 1888
Darling Harbour
Housed in a former wool warehouse, Ovolo 1888 in Darling Harbour has plenty of character and makes any stay an adventure. Each room pays homage to its history– exposed brick walls meet punchy Australian pop art and a mix of vibrant furnishings. Downstairs, Mister Percy serves up vegetarian Italian dishes including handmade pasta, accompanied by pours from local vineyards to as far as the Meditteranean. The hotels’ biggest draw is the vintage decor, old-worldly charm and contemporary accents that make it a unique stay, not to mention the convenient location to the harbour and its boutique cafe’s.
Book here.
Spicers Potts Point
Potts Point
Spicers Potts Point has a distinctly urban feel. The three pretty white terrace houses sitting on a tree-lined street could have something to do with it. The allure of 19th Century architecture together with the modernities that comes with the Spicers brand makes this boutique hotel a favourite option for those looking for a great location and classic inner-city hotel experience. The breakfast is not to be missed and is served in the Garden Room, which is outfitted with potted succulents and botanicals all over. While the hotel has it all, it will cost you, around $430 to be exact, but breakfast is included.
Book here.
The Old Clare Hotel
Chippendale
Inspired by surrounding art galleries, design studios, cafes and restaurants, The Old Clare Hotel keeps curious travellers in mind. Each room has a different colour palette, quirk, and theme. It’s far from a generic hotel, which makes this industrial-chic hotel one of Sydney’s best. In 2019, the hotel added a glamorous wing, offering seven art deco rooms, each with its own lush furnishings and cast-iron bathtubs. While you might never want to leave the room, there is so much exploring to do. Chippendale is home to much of Sydney’s heritage, which can be found in its restaurants, shops and cafes.
Book here.
Paramount House Hotel
Surry Hills
Located in the former headquarters of Paramount Picture Studios, this hotel brings a mix of heritage to their stylish rooms. There are 29 rooms, each a different size thanks to the buildings original structure. Although some are small like the Nook, each is cleverly designed to make use of the space. The Sunny rooms feature terrazzo tiled bathrooms and alcoves with plants while the Mack Daddy spans four light-filled spaces with a private balcony, bedroom and lounge. Each room feels lived in, making it more of a home than a hotel. You also have the advantage of being located in Surry Hills which plays host to some of Sydney’s top restaurants and bars.
Book here.
Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo
Mosman
Most hotels have a perk, whether it’s free breakfast or happy hour, but this eco-retreat offers the chance to wake up to a koala sleeping by your balcony. The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo was a highly-anticipated opening, a first-of-its-kind in Sydney and it remains a top experience for families and couples. Each lodge is environmentally sensitive and sustainably designed and comes with breakfast, a guided tour and two-day access to the zoo. The sanctuary is shared with red kangaroos, Tammar Wallabies, echidnas and koalas, giving guests the chance to wake up to the sounds of wildlife and views of the harbour. For a unique, stay it doesn’t get any better than a zoo sleepover.
Book here.
Establishment Hotel
CBD
Here is another warehouse, industrial-style hotel in Sydney, preserving the city’s publishing history. Establishment Hotel features rustic beams, soaring ceilings and cast-iron fixtures, all leftover from the 1930’s publishing house. Its location is a mere stroll to the Opera House and The Rocks, which is home to several hole-in-the-wall bars and some of the city’s top restaurants. For $230/night, this hotel is an affordable option and comes with a ton of history and stylish rooms that look more like magazine spreads than hotel rooms.
Book here.