The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney (Updated 2024)

Posted: 3/1/2024 | March 1st, 2024

Sydney is where most travelers start their trip to Australia. It’s the country’s largest city (almost 20% of the entire population lives here), boasting incredible beaches, a fun nightlife, and lots of museums and galleries.

I’ve been visiting the city since 2007 and always have an amazing time. Sydney is gorgeous and I never get tired of admiring the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. But while the city has plenty to keep you busy, it is a bit spread out. That means picking the right place to stay is important.

Over the years, I’ve stayed at countless hotels. There’s a lot in the city and picking one can be overwhelming. Here’s my list of the best hotels in Sydney:

1. Mercantile Hotel

Located in the historic Rocks neighborhood, this three-star hotel is just five minutes walk from the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. I especially like that it’s home to Australia’s longest-running Irish pub, where you can enjoy regular live music along with your pint.

A mid-range hotel, the rooms here are simple, minimalist, and practical. While it’s not super arty or unique, the rooms are large and the beds are comfortable. There’s free Wi-Fi, AC, and a coffee/tea maker in each room too. The bathrooms, while small, are well-kept and everything is in good condition. There’s no breakfast available, but there are lots of options nearby. The emphasis here is more on location than amenities, but you still get good value. It’s the best place to stay in The Rocks on a budget.

2. Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel

This breezy four-star hotel is in Coogee Bay, a beachy neighborhood southeast of the city. I love that the hotel is just a two-minute walk to the beach. All the rooms here are spacious and airy, with beachy colors and decorations. Rooms also have flatscreen TVs, desks, coffee/tea makers, and minibars. The bathrooms are roomy too, with showers that have good water pressure.

Breakfast is served at the hotel’s beachside bar and grill, and the hotel also has an art-deco style cocktail bar and sports bar. If you have a vehicle, there’s private parking too (which is rare in the city). If you want a quieter, more relaxing stay, this is the hotel for you.

3. Crystalbrook Albion

South of downtown in Surry Hills, this five-star luxury hotel is located in a gorgeous brick heritage building that was once a former convent. The property is elegantly designed, taking inspiration from both the…