17 BEST HOTELS in Sydney [December 2024!]

17 BEST HOTELS in Sydney [[date]!] 1

Sydney, the most famous city from the land down under, has many attributes to attract visitors.

Who hasn’t dreamt of seeing the Harbour Bridge, taking a stroll along the iconic Opera House, or say hi to the kangaroo joeys at the Taronga Zoo? We have for sure!

However, accommodation in Sydney gets pretty expensive really quickly, and it can be hard to find a really nice hotel with a good location.

This is exactly why we have put together this guide to the best hotels in Sydney.

Regardless of your budget, whether you like modern design or historical buildings, we have you covered!

All the hard work has been done for you. You just have to relax, and pick your favourite spot.

Quick answers – Best hotels in Sydney

At A Glance: Best Hotels in Sydney

BEST HOTELS IN SYDNEY
htjltbl-table__image Overall Best HotelOverall Best HotelPark Hyatt Sydney
  • Heated swimming pool
  • Stunning views
  • Luxury rooms
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near the AirportBest Hotel Near the AirportRydges Sydney Airport Hotel
  • Fast check-in
  • Free airport transfer
  • Fitness centre
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near DowntownBest Hotel Near DowntownSwissôtel Sydney
  • Great location
  • Comfortable rooms
  • On-site spa
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel for FamiliesBest Hotel for FamiliesPullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour
  • Great location
  • Kids stay for free
  • Apartment bedrooms
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htjltbl-table__image Best Pet-Friendly HotelBest Pet-Friendly HotelPier One Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection
  • Quiet location
  • Special pet rooms
  • Friendly staff
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htjltbl-table__image Best Cheap HotelBest Cheap HotelThe Baxley Bondi
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Free wifi
  • Clean hotel
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Harbour BridgeBest Hotel Near Harbour Bridge Holiday Inn Old Sydney
  • Rooftop swimming pool
  • Central location
  • 24-hour reception
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Bondi BeachBest Hotel Near Bondi BeachThe Chee Bondi
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen area
  • Swimming pool
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Darling HarbourBest Hotel Near Darling HarbourOvolo 1888 Darling Harbour
  • Heritage building
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Great location
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near the Royal Botanic GardensBest Hotel Near the Royal Botanic GardensInterContinental Sydney
  • Great breakfast
  • Rooms with city view
  • 24-hour fitness centre
Book on Booking.com →

While you’re in research mode, check out our ultimate guide to the 15 best things to do in Sydney, you’ll be able to find an amazing day trip at a budget that works for you.

Plus, check out our neighborhood guide on where to stay in Sydney to help you find an amazing hotel that suits your style and budget! If you’re travelling to Indonesia, be sure to check out Canggu’s most incredible areas for 2019.

#1 – Park Hyatt Sydney

Best Overall Hotel in Sydney

Park Hyatt Sydney

Park Hyatt Sydney

A luxury hotel in Sydney harbour

  • $$$$
  • Heated swimming pool
  • Stunning views
  • Luxury rooms

As you walk in, you will quickly understand why celebrities and heads of States choose to stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney: it is truly the nicest hotel in Sydney.

From the Park Hyatt‘s heated rooftop swimming pool, admire the view over the world-famous Sydney Opera House. Enjoy the plushiness of the carpets as you walk in your luxury room.

Appreciate the 24-hour butler service provided at the Park Hyatt and relax in your private bathtub or enjoy a massage at the spa. Set yourself up for a restful sleep in the super comfy beds. All in all, a perfect stay!

 

Insider tip – Use our expert guide to see when the best time to visit Sydney is!

#2 – Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel

Best Hotel in Sydney Near the Airport

Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel

Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel

Trendy hotel near the airport

  • $$
  • Fast check-in
  • Free airport transfer
  • Fitness centre

The Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel is the best hotel to stay in Sydney near the airport. The hotel offers free shuttle transfers to both the domestic and international terminals of the airport. Alternatively, the airport train station is a short 2-minute walk away.

Flight arrival and departure information is displayed in the hotel. The Rydges’ bedrooms are comfortable and all have a private bathroom with amenities. Some rooms also have a private balcony. The hotel has an in-house restaurant serving modern Australian cuisine, as well as a casual sports bar.

 

Planning a trip? See our list of the best things to see in Hobart!

#3 – Swissôtel Sydney

Best Hotel in Sydney Near Downtown

Swissotel Sydney

Swissotel Sydney

A comfortable hotel in the heart of the city

  • $$
  • Great location
  • Comfortable rooms
  • On-site spa

The Swissôtel Sydney is one of the best luxury hotels in Sydney. Located in the heart of the Sydney CBD, in the middle of the shopping precinct, it is the ideal base for travellers who want to enjoy the busy city.

Swissôtel’s bedrooms feature a comfortable bed, a private bathroom, a wardrobe and great city views. A pillow menu is also provided to ensure you spend the most restful night. Guests can relax at the on-site spa or by the rooftop pool. Free wifi is available everywhere in the hotel.

 

#4 – Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Best Hotel in Sydney for Families

Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Family-friendly luxury hotel

  • $$$
  • Great location
  • Kids stay for free
  • Apartment bedrooms

The Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is the best luxury hotel in Sydney for families. It offers spacious apartment bedrooms with a balcony, a living room area and a kitchen/dining space.

Cable channels including kids channels as well as a DVD player are available in the living room area. 2-bedroom apartments fitting up to 5 people are available. Alternatively, children under 11 can sleep in the sofa bed for free with a paying adult.

The indoor swimming pool is heated and can be enjoyed year-round.

 

#5 – Pier One Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection

Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Sydney

Pier One Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection

Pier One Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection

Pet-friendly hotel in the heart of the Sydney Harbour

  • $$
  • Quiet location
  • Special pet rooms
  • Friendly staff

The Pier One Sydney Harbour Autograph Collection is without a doubt the best pet-friendly hotel in Sydney and, at the same time, one of the best boutique hotels in Sydney. The hotel has a great location overlooking Circular Quay, in the heart of Sydney Harbour, where you will be able to take your four-legged friend out for a stroll easily.

Special pet rooms are available at Pier One and they are fitted with pet bowls, pet beds, and even a fridge full of treats!

 

#6 – The Baxley Bondi

Best Cheap Hotel in Sydney

The Baxley Bondi

The Baxley Bondi

Affordable guest house in Bondi

  • $$
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Free wifi
  • Clean hotel

The Baxley Bondi is a guest house located in the Bondi area of Sydney and is one the best boutique hotels in Sydney. The comfortable and well-decorated rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, heating, and a refrigerator.

The bathrooms at the Baxley are shared or ensuite depending on the room type. The bathrooms and the rooms are sparkling clean. When the sun is out, guests can relax in the garden.

Free wifi is provided throughout the property. All rooms are located on the ground floor and are wheelchair accessible.

 

#7 – Holiday Inn Old Sydney

Best Hotel in Sydney Near Harbour Bridge

Holiday Inn Old Sydney

Holiday Inn Old Sydney

Great views on the Harbour Bridge

  • $$$
  • Rooftop swimming pool
  • Central location
  • 24-hour reception

The Holiday Inn Old Sydney is the best hotel in Sydney near Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. It is centrally located in the Rocks neighbourhood, from where you will be able to access the shopping areas as well as Sydney’s main attractions. 

The beautiful rooftop terrace and swimming pool boast incredible views over the Sydney harbour and Harbour Bridge. The rooms are comfortable and are fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a tea and coffee maker.

 

#8 – The Chee Bondi

Best Hotel in Sydney Near Bondi Beach

The Chee Bondi

The Chee Bondi

Apartments near Bondi Beach

  • $$
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen area
  • Swimming pool

The Chee Bondi is the best boutique hotel in Sydney near Bondi Beach. Located just 2 minutes’ walk away from the beach, it is conveniently located for a relaxing holiday. The area is lively, with lots of bars and restaurant, and downtown Sydney is easily accessible.

The Chee offers spacious apartments fitted with a kitchen, a dining table, and a living room area. Each apartment also has an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub. Some of the apartments feature a balcony. Free wifi is available in all areas of the hotel.

 

#9 – Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

Best Hotel in Sydney Near Darling Harbour

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

Modern hotel near Darling Harbour

  • $$
  • Heritage building
  • Comfortable rooms
  • Great location

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour is the best hotel in Sydney near Darling Harbour. This modern hotel located in a restored heritage building offers spacious and comfortable rooms in a central and easily accessible location. The beds are comfortable and rooms feature exposed brick walls and vintage furniture.

Each room at the Ovolo 1888 is fitted with air conditioning and a private bathroom with a large shower or a bathtub. The in-house restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine cooked with fresh ingredients. The reception is open around the clock and provides tour desk services.

 

#10 – InterContinental Sydney

Best Hotel in Sydney Near the Royal Botanic Gardens

InterContinental Sydney

InterContinental Sydney

Luxury stay in the heart of Sydney

  • $$
  • Great breakfast
  • Rooms with city view
  • 24-hour fitness centre

The Intercontinental Sydney is the best hotel in Sydney near the Royal Botanic Gardens and overall one of the nicest hotels in Sydney. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a view over the city or the harbour.

The fitness centre at the Intercontinental is open for guests 24 hours a day and the in-house spa provides beauty treatments for men and women. The Royal Botanic Gardens are located just 5 minutes away from the hotel, and Circular Quay is only 2 minutes away.

 

More Best Hotels in Sydney

#11 – The Langham Sydney

The Langham Sydney

The Langham Sydney

5-star hotel near Darling Harbour

  • $$$$
  • Excellent service
  • Spacious rooms
  • Wellness centre

The Langham Sydney, located just 5 minutes away from Darling Harbour, is a top rated hotel in Sydney. It offers very spacious rooms with an ensuite bathroom, fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, extra long beds and a laptop safe. Each room has a city or river view.

The Langham’s indoor swimming pool is open all year long and is heated. Pets are accepted in the hotel and are greeted with pet food bowls and treats.

 

#12 – Hotel Palisade

Hotel Palisade

Hotel Palisade

Movie-like hotel in The Rocks

  • $$
  • Boutique hotel
  • Great views
  • Unique decoration

Hotel Palisade is one of the best boutique hotels in Sydney. Each room is well decorated and fitted with an ensuite bathroom. Some rooms also have a private balcony or terrace, as well as a seating area.

The in-house bar serves excellent cocktails that can be enjoyed on the rooftop terrace boasting incredible views over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Free wifi is available all around the property. The hotel does not serve breakfast, but free breakfast vouchers for a nearby café are provided.

 

#13 – QT Sydney

QT Sydney

QT Sydney

Design 5-star hotel in the CBD

  • $$
  • Quirky design
  • Great location
  • Comfortable rooms

QT Sydney is one of the best places to stay in Sydney. Each room is decorated with quirky taste and fitted with designer furniture. The beds are comfortable and the rooms also have a nice sofa for guests to relax.

Rooms at the QT feature a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a tea and coffee maker. The in-house spa offers massages, body treatments, a steam room and beauty services. The hotel also features a coffee house as well as a cocktail bar.

 

#14 – Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Unique accommodation in a historic building

  • $$
  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Friendly staff
  • Spacious bathroom

Ovolo Woolloomooloo is a top Sydney hotel. The hotel offers 5-star accommodation in a historic building in the Woolloomooloo area, and each room has kept historical features as part of the decoration. (https://www.terrariumquest.com/)

All of the rooms at the Ovolo boast a sea or city view and are fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, an iPod docking station and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

The hotel features a common lounge open 24 hours a day, where guests can grab a cup of coffee, get some work done, or just relax after a long day.

 

#15 – Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

Award-winning hotel in the heart of Sydney

  • $$
  • Clean rooms
  • Modern decoration
  • Good breakfast

The Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney is conveniently located in the heart of the city, close to Circular Quay. Each room is fitted with an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and Internet access. The rooms also boast a view over the city.

During the day, Amora guests can relax at the indoor swimming pool, or at the spa where massages services are offered. The hotel also has 2 restaurants and 2 bars serving good cocktails and modern Australian cuisine.

 

#16 – The Old Clare Hotel

The Old Clare Hotel

The Old Clare Hotel

Industrial-chic design for a comfortable stay

  • $$
  • Sun terrace
  • 24-hour reception
  • Bicycle rental

The Old Clare Hotel is located in a brewery conversion in central Sydney. Today, it is one of the nicest hotels in Sydney. Rooms feature a private bathroom, a television, air conditioning and an electric kettle. Bathrobe and bathroom amenities are provided free of charge.

Guests can enjoy a drink on the sun terrace during the summer days, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant at the Old Clare Hotel. Bikes can be rented directly from the hotel.

 

#17 – The Darling

The Darling

The Darling

Superb hotel in Sydney

  • $$
  • On-site casino
  • Turkish bath
  • Comfortable rooms

The Darling is a great hotel in Sydney. The outdoor swimming pool is scented and has its own pool bar for guests to spend a relaxing afternoon at. Alternatively, you will be able to enjoy the Turkish baths or get a massage at the spa.

In the evening, Darling guests can try their luck at the in-house casino. The rooms feature very comfortable beds, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and air conditioning. Some rooms have a view over the Sydney harbour and Harbour Bridge.

 

#18 – Sydney Harbour YHA

Sydney Harbour YHA

Sydney Harbour YHA

Cheap accommodation in the heart of the city

  • $
  • Clean rooms
  • Great location
  • Free Wifi

Sydney Harbour YHA is a hostel located in the best area to stay in Sydney. Guests can choose between a bed in a shared dormitory or a private room with an ensuite bathroom.

The YHA’s tour desk can help guests book their favourite activities, and also organises weekly free thematic walks around the city. The rooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided.

Free Wifi is available in the YHA’s common lounge, and there is an on-site laundry facility. The rooftop terraces boast amazing views over the Harbour Bridge.

 

Our Last Words…

We have come to the end of our insider’s guide to the top hotels in Sydney. From luxury hotels to boutique accommodation and even youth hostels, there is something for all tastes in this list.

If you are still unsure about which one to pick, we recommend picking the best overall hotel in Sydney, the Park Hyatt Sydney. With great views over the harbour and comfortable beds, it will not disappoint for sure.

Sydney is a marvellous city and has a lot to offer; it would be a shame to skip it! If you’re looking for things to do, check out our guide to the top 15 stellar things to do in Sydney to save you time and money!

Let us know in the comments how you liked the hotels from this list, and if you have any other suggestions, we are all ears!

Bye mate!

*** Some of the links on Hotel Jules are affiliate links, which means if you do make a purchase, we may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) Thank you for using our links! Your support keeps the site going***

About the Author Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson lives to travel! Born in Washington D.C., Emma is a hotel connoisseur and a staff writer at Hotel Jules. An army brat, Emma got the travel bug early and has never been able to stop. Now, she has proudly visited 70+ countries and plans to visit every country in the world! Passionate about her ukelele (obviously) and her family, Emma eventually wants to retire in Thailand and write a book about all of her travel experiences.

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