Accommodation in Sydney

Best Areas to Stay in Sydney

Sydney, one of Australia’s most iconic cities, offers a variety of accommodation options for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or a bit of both, here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best place to stay.

General Tips

Here is a list of basic tips to make your stay in Sydney perfect.

Sydney boasts a well-developed public transport system, making it easy to get around. The Opal Card is your go-to for travel on buses, trains, ferries, and light rail. It’s convenient and cost-effective.

Stay near Circular Quay if you want quick access to ferries that take you to popular spots like Manly Beach and Taronga Zoo.

The ideal time to visit Sydney is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months. The weather is mild, and you can avoid the summer crowds.

If you’re looking for summer vibes, December to February offers warm weather, but it’s also peak tourist season, so book accommodation early for better rates.

  • Luxury: For a splurge, The Rocks and Circular Quay offer premium hotels with fantastic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Expect world-class service and proximity to top attractions.
  • Mid-Range: Areas like Surry Hills, Potts Point, and Darlinghurst are perfect for those seeking a balance of good accommodation and affordable options. These neighborhoods also feature vibrant dining and nightlife scenes.
  • Budget: If you’re on a tighter budget, look at areas like Chinatown, Kings Cross, and Bondi Beach. These areas offer hostels and budget-friendly hotels, plus easy access to the city center and public transport.

Sydney, Australia’s iconic harbor city, offers a variety of neighborhoods for every type of traveler. From bustling city vibes to laid-back beachside living, here are the top 5 areas to stay in Sydney, each with its own unique charm and characteristics.

Circular Quay & The Rocks

Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Circular Quay and The Rocks offer some of the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

This area is popular among tourists and locals alike, providing easy access to top attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Sydney Observatory.

The area is walkable, with excellent public transport links including ferries, buses, and trains. However, be prepared for higher accommodation prices and crowds, especially during events like New Year’s Eve when it becomes a hub for fireworks.

Our recommendations for accommodations in Circular Quay & The Rocks:

1. Capella Sydney

Capella Sydney is a luxurious 5-star hotel near major attractions like the Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens. The hotel offers elegantly restored rooms, a wellness center with a heated pool, fitness facilities, and a spa.

Dining includes Brasserie 1930, serving Australian and international dishes, and the McRae Bar. Guests enjoy bicycle rentals, valet parking, and 24-hour room service. It’s perfect for those seeking luxury, culture, and convenience.

2. Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour, including the iconic Opera House and Circular Quay. Located in the financial district and historic The Rocks, the hotel features luxurious rooms with high-end amenities.

Guests can enjoy dining at Mode Kitchen & Bar, serving modern Australian cuisine, or relax at the Grain Bar with a selection of cocktails and wines. The hotel boasts a fully equipped fitness center, a spa, and a wellness center offering therapeutic treatments.

Guests staying in select suites have access to the exclusive Club 32 lounge.

Darling Harbour

Situated a short walk from the CBD, Darling Harbour is perfect for tourists and business travelers alike. It is home to family-friendly attractions such as Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife Sydney Zoo, and Madame Tussauds.

Darling Harbour is a lively area surrounded by waterfront dining options, bars, and cafes, making it ideal for those looking for entertainment and dining close by.

The area is well-connected by ferries, light rail, and buses, though accommodation can be on the pricier side.

Our recommendations for places to stay in Darling Harbour:

1. The Darling at The Star

The Darling at The Star offers luxurious accommodations with a casino, day spa, and 20 bars and restaurants. Located just 650 meters from Cockle Bay, some rooms offer stunning views of the city skyline, while others look toward Pyrmont.

Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, minibars, and air-conditioning with Egyptian cotton sheets.

The hotel boasts an outdoor pool with a bar, a Turkish bath, and a variety of dining options, including Luke Nguyen’s Fat Noodle. It is conveniently located near the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, and the International Convention Centre.

Bondi Beach

For those seeking a quintessential beach experience, Bondi Beach is Sydney’s most famous coastal suburb. Known for its surfing culture and vibrant beach life, Bondi is bustling year-round, especially during the summer months.

In addition to the beach, the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a must-do for visitors. While Bondi offers a laid-back atmosphere, be aware that it can be crowded, and accommodation near the beach tends to be expensive.

Public transport options like buses are plentiful, making it easy to get to the area, though parking can be challenging.

Our recommendations for housing options in Bondi Beach:

1. Bondi Beach House

Bondi Beach House offers accommodation with a private pool and free private parking. This beachfront property also provides access to a balcony.

The air-conditioned apartment includes two bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, and two bathrooms with a spa bath and a hairdryer.

Guests can enjoy the indoor pool at the apartment.

Surry Hills

For a trendy and cultural experience, Surry Hills is a vibrant neighborhood just a stone’s throw from the city center. Known for its chic cafes, boutique shops, and lively nightlife, Surry Hills is a favorite for young professionals and creatives.

It offers a cosmopolitan vibe with plenty of dining options and easy access to cultural attractions.

Accommodation can be pricey, and the area can be noisy, particularly on weekends. Surry Hills is well-connected by buses and even bike-friendly with rental options, making it a great choice for those who enjoy walking and cycling

Our recommendations for housing options in Surry Hills:

1. Crystalbrook Albion

Crystalbrook Albion is a boutique hotel in Surry Hills, offering a blend of heritage and contemporary design. The hotel features a rooftop garden with views over Sydney, a 24-hour desk, and an honour bar with top-shelf beverages and gourmet snacks.

Committed to sustainability, it avoids plastic straws, water bottles, and key cards, using eco-friendly initiatives like large-pump amenities and paperless technology. Rooms are air-conditioned, with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms.

Housed in a historic building from 1903, it offers easy access to nearby dining spots like Chin Chin and Nomad. The airport is 7 km away.

Manly

Located just a short ferry ride from the CBD, Manly offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with stunning beaches and plenty of outdoor activities. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Manly is ideal for families, surfers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Major attractions include Manly Beach, North Head Sanctuary, and the Corso. While accommodation can be more affordable further from the beach, expect higher prices closer to the sand, especially during peak seasons.

The ferry ride from Circular Quay provides beautiful views of the harbor, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

Our recommendations for housing options in Manly:

1. The Ryokan – Zen

The Ryokan – Zen is a property with sea views located in Sydney, just a 3-minute walk from Manly Beach and 1 km from Shelly Beach. The area offers activities like hiking, fishing, and snorkeling.

This air-conditioned apartment features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator and coffee maker, and a bathroom with a shower and free toiletries.

The area is ideal for cycling, and Delwood Beach is a 13-minute walk away. Taronga Zoo is 10 km from the property, and Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport is 25 km away.


Plan your trip today and explore all that this amazing Australian city has to offer!

If you want to know more find out here:

Cities

Explore the top cities of Australia

Housing

Best place to stay in any city of Australia

Food

Discover the top Aussie food