Sydney is a lively and dynamic city in NSW, Australia. The coastal city is best known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant cultural scenes, and beautiful natural landscapes. In this article, we have hand-curated a list of the best places to stay in Sydney, from luxury 5-star hotels in the CBD to cool boutique hotels in Surry Hills.
Sydney CBD Hotels
Sydney CBD is one of the most central neighbourhoods in the city. It is home to tons of quality restaurants and the world-renowned Sydney Opera House. As a major terminus, it is extremely convenient with a wide variety of transportation options, including trains, trams, buses, ferries, and taxis.
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is one of the most iconic 5-star hotels in Circular Quay. The award-winning hotel boasts 531 guest rooms and suites that feature an exquisite and classy design. They each come with bespoke furnishing, premium bedding, and extensive amenities. Many of the rooms also have a harbour view or the Opera House view.
The hotel features multiple facilities, including a 24-hour fitness center and a heated outdoor swimming pool. If you are looking to unwind, premium spa services are available on-site. The hotel is also perfect for families traveling with kids, as it offers babysitting services, children’s menus, family-friendly activities, and more. Mode Kitchen and Bar on the ground floor will offer memorable contemporary Australian dishes in a beautiful setting.
InterContinental Sydney
InterContinental Sydney is one of the best 5-star heritage hotels in Circular Quay. The luxury hotel is housed inside the heritage-listed Treasury Building, originally designed by architect Mortimer William Lewis in 1851. The property underwent a major refurbishment in 2020; therefore, the interior looks extremely refreshed and modern.
The hotel comprises 527 guest rooms and suites that are designed with an elegant white and blue tone. On the inside, you will find deluxe furnishing, a marble bathroom, premium bedding, Byredo toiletries, a TV, a Vittoria coffee machine, and complimentary internet access.
On the 31st floor, you will find a heated indoor pool with Sydney Opera House views. Next to the pool is a gym with a variety of equipment. Make sure you also check out the hotel’s iconic rooftop bar, Aster, which boasts a panoramic view of the Sydney skyline.
Shangri-La Sydney
Shangri-La Sydney is another one of the classic 5-star hotels situated in Circular Quay. The award-winning hotel boasts 564 guest rooms and suites, each designed elegantly with a clean, neutral, and white colour palette.
All rooms and suites feature deluxe bedding, a full-size writing desk, Shangri-La-branded toiletries, and complimentary internet access. Spanning 36 levels tall, most rooms have a gorgeous view of either Darling Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, or the Sydney Opera House.
You will find multiple wellness facilities on-site. This includes an indoor heated swimming pool, a fully-equipped gymnasium, an infrared sauna, a hot whirlpool bath, and a sundeck. For meals, the Altitude Restaurant and the Blu Bar are located on the top floor with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a world-class culinary experience alongside the views of the Sydney skyline.
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel is a modern 5-star hotel located in the heart of the district. It is currently one of the largest luxury hotels in Circular Quay with 595 spacious guest rooms and suites. They are all designed cleanly with a bright and refreshing colour tone alongside contemporary furnishing.
On the inside, you will find sumptuous bedding, a TV with Chromecast, a minibar, coffee facilities, and free internet access. Multiple view options are available, including the Opera view, the skyline view, and the harbour view.
Besides, you will have access to an indoor heated swimming pool and a 24-hour gym with extensive equipment. For sports enthusiasts, complimentary fitness classes for boxercise, yoga, and pilates are also available upon inquiry. On the ground floor, you will find award-winning restaurant Silvester’s, which specializes in refreshing contemporary Australian dishes.
The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney
If you are looking for more versatility or longer stays, then The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney is a great option to consider. It is one of the few luxury apartment hotels in Circular Quay. There are multiple apartment options ranging from one-bedroom apartments to three-bedroom penthouses. Different views are also available according to your preference.
All of its apartments are extremely spacious. They are designed subtly with a homey aesthetic. They each feature modern furnishings, plush bedding, a TV, a fully-equipped kitchen, a separate lounge area, and a laundry. Complimentary internet access and daily housekeeping are also available.
Besides, the hotel features a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a fully-equipped gym with machines and free weights. The Quartier Bistro & Bar is also located on-site, serving quality modern French cuisine for guests.
Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Fullerton Hotel Sydney is built inside the historic General Post Office building, previously designed by colonial architect James Barnet in the early 19th century. The grand-looking hotel was opened in 2019 after nine months of dedicated restoration and renovation.
The 5-star hotel comprises 416 guest rooms and suites, all featuring luxury bedding, sophisticated amenities, and complimentary unlimited wireless Internet access. Guests can choose between contemporary-designed rooms in the high-rise tower or classically-inspired rooms in the heritage building according to their respective preferences. It also features an in-house bar and restaurant that offers a variety of drinks and cuisines.
Located in Martin Place, the hotel sits right in the heart of Sydney CBD and is a 5-minute walk away from the nearest train station. It is also surrounded by multiple heritage buildings such as the Former Bank of Australasia Building, the Savings Bank Building, and the Commonwealth Trading Bank Building. Fullerton Hotel is perfect for traveling families, couples, and history lovers.
Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour
Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is another one of the best 5-star apartment hotels in Circular Quay. Much like The Sebel Quay West Suites, all of its guest suites are extremely spacious and feature a fully-equipped kitchen, a separate lounging & dining area, and a laundry.
The hotel offers 68 suites that are designed modernly. Inside the rooms, you will find premium bedding, stylish furniture, a private balcony, a work desk, a TV, and complimentary wireless internet. There are two views available, including the signature harbour view and the calming garden view.
During your stay, you will have access to an indoor gym and a heated pool with scenic harbour views. For meals, Q Dining is a modern Australian restaurant with a vibrant menu. On the other hand, Hyde Hacienda is a South American-inspired bar with a diverse drink list.
Little National Hotel Sydney
If you are a lover of minimalist design, then Little National Hotel Sydney is the perfect boutique hotel for you. Located right next to Wynyard Station, the 4-star design hotel is situated inside a modern building designed by local studio Bates Smart. The minimalistic theme is shown throughout the communal spaces with extensive use of white and wooden palettes.
You will find the same aesthetic across the 230 guest rooms. The design is simple but sleek and cozy. They each come with sophisticated furnishing, comfy king bedding, a TV, and free wifi. If you want to break a sweat, the hotel features a modern gym with state-of-the-art equipment. Besides, you will also have access to the indoor library and the relaxing rooftop terrace.
The Porter House Hotel
The Porter House Hotel is one of the best historic boutique hotels in Sydney CBD. The 5-star hotel is situated inside the heritage-listed Porter House, previously a tobacco factory in the 1870s. The 5-star hotel comprises 122 guest rooms and suites, each designed elegantly with a grey and white palette.
After an extensive restoration, the hotel now features a beautiful heated outdoor pool and a comprehensive fitness center. Culinary experience is a major highlight of the hotel, with multiple restaurants and bars on site. For instance, Dixson & Sons is a modern brasserie with a sophisticated menu, while Henry’s Bread + Wine is an all-day European delicatessen.
QT Sydney
QT Sydney is one of the most eclectic boutique hotels in the CBD. The luxury 5-star hotel is set on the upper floors of two heritage-listed buildings — the Gowings Building and the State Theatre. The interior is a stunning crossover between Art Deco and Gothic styles. You will find a lavish and modern design across the 200 rooms, each featuring different theatre and drama influences.
Besides design, gastronomy is another notable highlight of the hotel. For instance, Gowings is a contemporary restaurant that mixes the flavour of Italian cuisine and a classic New York steakhouse. On the other hand, Parlour is a French-inspired diner with a refined menu.
Surry Hills Hotels
202 Elizabeth
202 Elizabeth is one of the more discreet boutique hotels in Surry Hills, Sydney. Opened in February 2023, the design-centric hotel sits quietly inside a pale pink building. Unlike its subtle facade, you will discover a lively design across the interior, featuring ample large floral prints and indoor plants.
The 4-star hotel offers 38 guest rooms, each designed with a refreshing floral theme. Inside, you will find intricate designer furnishing, sumptuous king bedding, eco toiletries, a minibar, and free wifi. Besides, you will have access to a stunning rooftop oasis with loungers. It is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink. The hotel is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your doggies.
West Hotel Sydney
West Hotel Sydney is the first hotel to open in Australia under Hilton’s Curio Collection. Located in Barangaroo, the sophisticated 4-star boutique hotel is set inside a distinct contemporary glass building by Fitzpatrick + Partners. It offers 182 guest rooms and suites that are designed in a rich blue palette, complemented by modern, industrial-inspired furnishing.
During your stay, you will have access to a modern 24-hour gym with machines and free weights. For meals and drinks, Solander is a contemporary restaurant and bar on-site with a modern menu. You will also find a ton of other dining options around the lively Barangaroo district.
Adge Hotel
Adge Hotel is a modern boutique hotel in Surry Hills, Sydney. The 5-star design hotel is a refreshing transformation of the former Cambridge Hotel, which was closed in October 2019. Inspired by the vibrant personality of the neighbourhood, the interior showcases colourful and playful design.
The hotel currently offers 93 guest rooms (expected to expand to 242). They each feature a colourful and vibrant palette with quirky modern furnishings. The lively character is also shown in the hotel’s dining offerings. Inside the lobby, SOUL Deli is a modern Korean restaurant with an Australian twist. You will find classic dishes such as Avocado on Toast being paired with their signature kimchi.
Veriu Broadway
If you are after Sydney boutique hotels for extended stays, then Veriu Broadway in Ultimo is a great option to consider. The 4-star apartment-style hotel is housed inside a distinct white building with a sculptural zinc-clad roof, previously a warehouse building. Echoing the facade, you will find a modern industrial aesthetic with exposed concrete walls and wooden touches.
The 64 spacious suites are designed stylishly with concrete floors, exposed brick walls, and contemporary furnishings. As an apartment hotel, each room also has a well-appointed kitchen, a separate living area, and a washer & dryer. There is also a cafe in the lobby if you want to grab some light bites or drinks.
Zetland Hotels
Zetland is an emerging residential district located slightly south of Sydney’s CBD. The suburb’s major transportation options include trains (Green Square Station) and buses. It is extremely convenient as it is just one station away from Central and two stations away from the airport.
SKYE Suite Green Square
SKYE Suites Green Square is a relatively new apartment hotel in the district that opened in 2019. It is located within the unique award-winning architecture, Infinity by Crown Group, built by Koichi Takada Architects. The 5-star hotel offers multiple room options ranging from studio apartments to three-bedroom apartments, each designed with a luxurious light wooden tone.
All rooms come with modern bespoke furnishing, premium bedding, a lounging area, a fully-equipped kitchen with European appliances, an internal laundry, and complimentary internet access. The hotel features a beautiful heated outdoor pool and spa overlooking Green Square. A fully-equipped gym and sauna are also available on-site for guests.
Meriton Suites Zetland
Meriton Suites Zetland is a luxury 5-star apartment hotel, offering multiple room options ranging from studio suites to three-bedroom terrace suites. Rooms are recently refurnished with a soft grey and white tone, which gives off a modern and minimalistic aesthetic.
All suites feature plush bedding, a well-equipped gourmet kitchen, an internal laundry, a private balcony, KEVIN MURPHY-branded amenities, and complimentary internet access. For active guests, a comprehensive fitness center, indoor pool, and sauna are also available on-site.
Veriu Green Square
Veriu Green Square is a modern design hotel recently built in 2019, located on the former site of a luxury European auto-trader in the 1970s. The 4-star hotel has 144 rooms and suites, with the largest Quad Suite fitting up to 4 guests. Both the hotel and the rooms are designed sophisticatedly with contemporary details alongside industrial influences.
All rooms feature stylish furnishing, comfy bedding, a sofa, extensive amenities, and complimentary internet access. Suites also have a kitchenette with a convection oven and a full-sized fridge. The hotel also has an in-house gym with multiple machines and weights. For business travelers, a multi-purpose event room is available for meetings or conferences.
Chatswood Hotels
Chatswood is a large business and residential district located on the northern side of Sydney, around 10 km away from the city center. It is a major transportation hub with multiple traveling options such as the train, metro, and bus. A train trip to the city center or the Macquarie Park business center takes roughly 20 minutes.
There are two large shopping malls, Chatswood Chase Sydney and Westfield Chatswood, in the suburb alongside tons of different restaurants and cafes. Outdoor markets are also being hosted occasionally.
Meriton Suites Chatswood
Meriton Suites is one of the most well-known and luxurious serviced apartment hotels in the district. Built in 2015, the 5-star hotel has a sleek and modern design that offers both quality and comfort.
The hotel offers multiple room options, ranging from 1-bedroom apartments to 3-bedroom apartments. Each room has a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, private balcony, and separate living and dining areas. They also feature premium bedding, Kevin Murphy-branded amenities, and complimentary high-speed internet access.
Being the tallest hotel in the suburb at 32 levels high, most rooms have a beautiful view of the city skyline. An indoor swimming pool, sauna, and fitness center are also available on-site for active travelers.
Mantra Chatswood
Mantra Chatswood is a four-star apartment hotel situated near the center of the district. It is comprised of 165 studio rooms and one-bedroom apartments, which are designed with a clean and modern white tone. They both feature comfy bedding, stylish furnishing, and complimentary high-speed internet.
One-bedroom apartments have a full kitchen alongside a lounge and dining area, while studio rooms only have a kitchenette with a microwave and toaster. For guests not wanting to cook, a modern Australian restaurant is also located on-site with 24-hour room service available.
The hotel offers multiple facilities, including a 12-meter heated indoor pool, a sauna and steam room, and a fully-equipped gym. For business travellers, the hotel also offers conference venues and services for printing, copying, and faxing.
Silkari Suites at Chatswood
Silkari Suites at Chatswood is a 4-star contemporary serviced apartment hotel located in the heart of the district. The hotel has 212 rooms and suites ranging from studio apartments to two-bedroom apartments, all designed modernly with a black & white tone.
All rooms feature stylish furnishing, a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a laundry. The hotel has a 24-hour gym on-site and also offers complimentary internet access, in-house movies, and morning coffees.
Quest Chatswood
Quest Chatswood is a modern serviced apartment hotel located near the center of the suburb, providing 100 rooms ranging from studios to 2-bedroom apartments.
The rooms are designed cleanly with a wooden and neutral tone. They all feature modern furnishings, comfortable bedding, a work desk, and complimentary internet access. Apartments also have a fully-equipped kitchen and laundry, while studios have a kitchenette with a cooktop, toaster, and microwave. The hotel also has a gym on-site for guests.
The Sebel Sydney Chatswood
The Sebel Sydney Chatswood is a 4-star serviced apartment hotel located at the heart of the district. It offers multiple room options ranging from one-bedroom apartments to three-bedroom apartments. They are all designed with a white tone and wooden furnishing, which gives off a homey feeling.
Each room features a kitchen, a dining & lounge area, a balcony, and complimentary internet access. Laundry facilities are also provided for two and three-bedroom apartments. The hotel has multiple facilities available on-site, including a heated outdoor swimming pool & spa, a sauna, and a fitness center.
Barangaroo Hotels
West Hotel Sydney, Curio Collection by Hilton
West Hotel Sydney is the first property to open in Australia under the Curio Collection by Hilton, which is located inside a unique glass architecture. The sophisticated 4-star boutique hotel offers 182 guest rooms and suites, all designed modernly with a light-industrial aesthetic.
All rooms feature stylish furnishing, premium bedding, smart TV, eco-friendly amenities, and complimentary internet access. For active guests, a 24-hour gym with a cross-trainer, bike, treadmills, free weights, etc, is available on-site. There is also a contemporary restaurant and bar located on-site, offering quality modern Australian dishes and drinks for guests.
Woolloomooloo Hotels
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Ovolo Woolloomooloo is one of the most unique boutique hotels in Sydney. Located on the edge of Woolloomooloo, the contemporary 5-star hotel sits inside a 100-year-old wharf. With the help of architectural firm Hassell, the interior has been transformed into a stylish and lively space.
The guest rooms and suites are refurbished modernly with quirky decor alongside vibrant pops of colours. Some of them also feature the wharf’s original architectural elements. During your stay, you will have access to a large heated indoor swimming pool, a 24-hour gym, and a self-service laundry. There are also multiple dining and drinking venues inside the hotel. For instance, Il Pontile is a modern Italian restaurant with an innovative menu.
