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, best hotels in Sydney.
LessThe 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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 options.
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.
Airport hotels are beginning to look nothing like airport hotels 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 a cocktail bar.