Choosing where to stay in Sydney can make or break your trip. Sydney’s not just one city – it’s a number of neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe. From the historic Rocks quarter to laid-back Surry Hills, your experience can change dramatically depending on where you unpack.
Which area is best? Which hotel fits your budget? As a Sydney local who’s worked with visitors for decades, I know which areas suit different travellers. I’ll help you find your perfect Sydney base, whether you’re after harbour views, family-friendly accommodations, or budget options.
This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here.
We’ve outlined the most popular inner city neighbourhoods and their pros and cons to help you decide where to stay in Sydney.
You’ll find our picks for the best areas to stay in Sydney for different travellers in the box below if you’re in a hurry.
Our top 5 areas to stay in Sydney
In a hurry and just want us to cut to the chase? Well, here you go!
- Best area for a short stay in Sydney – The Rocks and Circular Quay offers various price points near key sites and transport.
- Best area for families–Darling Harbour is perfect for families with family-friendly dining and a fabulous playground.
- Best area for Budget Travellers – Potts Point and Kings Cross have great affordable boutique hotels, making them the best area for Budget Travellers.
- Best areas for foodies– Surry Hills is a top choice for foodies, with great bars and cafes, followed by Potts Point.
- Best beach stay–Manly andBondi are favorites, with Manly slightly ahead in convenience.
Scroll down for detailed advice and top picks.
The main hotel areas in Sydney
Sydney is a large city covering a wide geographic area. Hotels and major attractions are spread around the harbour, central business district, and inner-city suburbs, referred to by the city council as “villages”.
These villages include Surry Hills, Elizabeth Bay, Potts Point, Kings Cross, Darlinghurst, Chippendale, Redfern, and Newtown. Added to this you have the beach areas of Bondi and Manly.
Sydney’s main accommodation hubs are:
- The Rocks and Circular Quay
- Central Business District (CBD)
- Pyrmont and Darling Harbour
- Central and Chippendale
- Surry Hills and Paddington
- Kings Cross, Potts Point & Elizabeth Bay
- Newtown and Redfern
- Bondi Junction and Bondi Beach
- Manly Beach
Each area has pros and cons, which we’ll expand on below. We’ve added our favourite hotel options in each spot.
To make our list, the hotels need good transport connections, free wi-fi, and an average guest rating of over 8 on TripAdvisor. I’d book any of the listed hotels—I’ve stayed in or inspected every one.
The Rocks and Circular Quay
Circular Quay is the centre of the action on Sydney Harbour. It’s also one of the city’s main transportation hubs.
The cobblestone streets of the Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Opera House are a formidable trio and make Circular Quay a prime location for visitors. Many hotels offer water views, making this generally more expensive than other parts of the city.
Who should stay in the Rocks?
First-time visitors and short-term stayers should consider this area. Bars, pubs, waterfront restaurants, and good transport connections make getting around easy.
This is the perfect place to start the day if you enjoy a morning run or walk!
Things to know before you book a hotel in the Rocks
- Some streets in the northern end of the Rocks can be quite a walk to the city centre.
- If you have mobility issues, choose your hotel carefully as many heritage properties do not have lifts.
Hotels in The Rocks and Circular Quay
Budget – YHA Sydney Harbour – the best budget view in Sydney
The Sydney Harbour YHA is the only hostel in this part of town. While it’s not the cheapest hostel in the city, I think it’s the best. With glorious rooftop views and modern facilities, it’s great for budget travellers of any age.
Family rooms sleep five with a double bed and bunks. Most dorms have ensuite bathrooms, so there’s minimal sharing. We’ve shared a full review of Sydney Harbour YHA you should read if you are considering staying.
Check out reviews and current prices of YHA Sydney Harbour
Boutique – Harbour Rocks Hotel
This hotel is great if you prefer small, friendly hotels. It’s located behind George Street in the Rocks, just minutes from the water.
The public spaces are charming, especially the library. Some rooms have great views, and there is a lovely rooftop terrace. The hotel doesn’t have a guest elevator, but they take your bags to your room via a service lift.
If you love heritage-style hotels, you might want to check this one out.
Check availability and current prices for Harbour Rocks
Mid Range – Rydges Sydney Harbour
Perfectly placed for exploring The Rocks, one of the best things about the Rydges (previously Holiday Inn) in the Rocks is the fantastic rooftop pool area. The views are amazing! The rooms are functional if a little dull and the beds are comfortable.
The Rocks Market is right outside the door on weekends, and there are two pubs within a minute’s walk. The hotel is well placed for exploring on foot and only a short walk to Circular Quay.
Read reviews and check prices of Rydges Sydney Harbour
Splurge – Park Hyatt The Rocks Sydney – THE place to impress
If you’re coming to Sydney for a honeymoon or special event, look no further. The service and views are hard to beat anywhere.
The Park Hyatt has everything you’d expect from a 5-star hotel and more. It’s a superb choice for honeymooners, milestone birthdays, and A-list celebs, with a rooftop swimming pool and perfectly positioned dining room.
Check the prices and read reviews at Park Hyatt
The city centre (CBD)
Town Hall, Martin Place, and Wynyard are smack bang in the middle of the area known as the CBD. This area is surrounded by shops, bars, and public transport, and is home to offices, multinational companies, and the largest concentration of shops. You can easily walk to The Rocks, Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, and Chinatown in less than 20 minutes.
You’ll find most big brand hotels and serviced apartments in this area.
Who should stay in the CBD?
This is a good choice if you like shopping. Most key sites are within walking distance and transport is a breeze, with several train stations and major bus routes on your doorstep.
Things to know before you decide to stay in the CBD
- Outside business hours, the area around Pitt Street Mall can get pretty dead. Sydney’s shops shut early most nights, except Thursday at 6pm, unlike other world cities.
- You probably won’t have a pretty view from your window.
Wynyard and Martin Place
This is the northern end of the CBD, including the areas bordered by Bridge Street, Park Street, Macquarie, and Kent Street. Train stations servicing this area include Wynyard, Martin Place, and St James.
Within a 10-minute walk from here, you can reach The Rocks, Pitt Street Mall, and Sydney’s new dining precinct, Barangaroo. There are also lots of small bars in this area.
Budget options are limited and real estate is pricey for hostels in this area. Consider another location if you’re on a tight budget.
Recommended Hotels near Wynyard and Martin Place
Budget – Mercure Sydney Wynyard
Formerly Travelodge, now Mercure, is a functional tourist hotel. The location and price make it a reasonable option. There are two Mercure properties here; the other is at Martin Place. This one is better for leisure travellers, as you can walk to The Rocks or Barangaroo in less than 10 minutes.
Check availability, reviews and current prices of Mercure Wynyard
Mid Range – Little National
I like the communal areas at Little National. The guest-only rooftop bar has great ambience for a drink. The lounge is plush, comfortable and offers a free guest library, all-day tea, coffee and sparkling water.
Good workspace makes it an excellent choice for business travellers or early risers like me!
Check out photos of the rooms and availability of Little National
5 Star – Hyatt Regency Sydney
Sydney’s largest premium hotel has recently undergone a major refresh with a new nautical colour scheme and black and white images of the harbour a feature.
Harbour view rooms offer a Darling Harbour aspect, perfect for enjoying a Sydney sunset.
Check reviews, availability and prices for Hyatt Regency Sydney
Splurge – QT – 5 Star and Special
“Quirky and sexy” are words you hear a lot when people are describing this hotel. The QT space used to be part of the iconic menswear store Gowings.
They kept the art déco features and added a bunch of sass to make this a hotel experience in Sydney you will remember. Ideal for a shopping holiday, it is right next to the State Theatre if you are heading to a show.
Check reviews, availability and prices for QT Sydney
Hotels near Hyde Park
This end of the CBD is perfect for shoppers, Asian food lovers, budget travellers, and families.
Train stations serving this end of the CBD include Town Hall and Museum. It’s a 15-20-minute walk from the waterfront, but Hyde Park, museums and Darling Harbour are a short stroll away.
Hotels in the southern CBD area
Budget – Hyde Park Inn – Top Choice for Families
The Hyde Park Inn is a good choice if you need 3-5 beds in one room and great value. It’s only 50 metres from the Museum Station exit, an easy train commute from the airport. The rooms, while nothing fancy, are spacious and have a small kitchenette for when everyone is too tired to bother going out to eat.
Sometimes free parking is included, so ask if you’re bringing a car to Sydney. It’s a great choice for larger families and groups.
Check the prices and availability of Hyde Park Inn
Family size apartments – Oaks Sydney Hyde Park Suites
On the other side of the park Oaks Sydney Hyde Park Suites The park across the road offers plenty of space for kids to run around, and if you are lucky enough to get a room on top floors, you have great views over the park.
With studios, one and large (80sqm) two bedroom suites that can sleep up to 5 people.
Check the prices and availability of Oaks Sydney Hyde Park Suites
Mid Range – Swissotel – family-friendly and perfect for shopping
The Swissotel kids’ rooms feature kid-size furniture and bright linens. The hotel is well located for teens who want to shop. There’s a heated outdoor pool to keep everyone entertained.
Hyde Park is a 2-minute walk away, and Darling Harbour and Cockle Bay Wharf are five minutes in the opposite direction. A great choice for shoppers and families.
Check the current prices and availability of Swissôtel
Splurge – Kimpton Sydney – An art deco lovers paradise
Despite its unassuming exterior, this art déco building hides unique interiors. It was previously the Water Board headquarters and opened to rave reviews in 2017*.
The rooftop pool and heritage fit-out are beautifully done. It’s a great choice for singles and couples, well-placed for transport and shopping, and walking distance to Darling Harbour.
*Formerly Primus Hotel
Check out prices, availability and lots of gorgeous shots of the interior of the Kimpton
Darling Harbour & Pyrmont
Darling Harbour and Pyrmont, once working-class ports, were redeveloped for the 1988 Bicentennial celebrations. Today, they’re popular for family dining, weekend festivals, the Star Casino, Maritime Museum, and numerous cafes and restaurants.
Who should stay in Darling Harbour?
This is a great spot for families with lots of activities, kid-friendly dining, and green space. The recent development at the southern end, Darling Square, has made it a foodie hotspot.
What are the cons? The area is connected to the city via light rail or ferries, but neither is a quick trip. It’s an uphill walk to Pitt St Mall and other sites.
Hotels in Darling Harbour
Ovolo Darling Harbour – great for couples and groups of friends
This hotel, a warehouse conversion, opened in 2016 and has become a favourite of mine in this part of the city. The soundproof rooms are well-fitted, and they have paid extra attention to comfort with quality linens, showers, and Apple TV.
There are self-service washers and dryers available, which I love when travelling. It’s important for longer stays in Sydney due to the limited affordable washing options in the middle of town. They also offer a free minibar that is topped up daily.
Book on the hotel’s site for extra freebies. The location is a bit hidden away, but it’s only 300m from the light rail station and a short walk to Darling Harbour.
Check prices and read reviews of Ovolo Darling Harbour
Aiden Hotel
This beautiful hotel is a welcomed addition to Pyrmont, with unique botanical murals by local artist Jessica Le Clerc in each of its 88 guest rooms.
The hotel offers creature comforts that include a pillow menu and luxurious bathrooms. Extras include a Dyson hairdryer, Nespresso machine, and Moda water taps for refilling sparkling and still water on each floor.
The Aiden offers a comfortable space to retreat to after sightseeing. The hotel is great for couples and singles. Digital nomads or business travellers will enjoy the ground floor work space and great wi-fi.
Check out reviews and photos of the Darling at the Star
Novotel Sydney Darling Square – a good option for families
The Novotel Darling Square is a good option for families. The standard room has two double beds, perfect for travelling with children.
Located behind the Pumphouse bar and brewery, within walking distance of the Darling Harbour playground, Maritime Museum, Aquarium, and Wildlife World. The light rail and ferry stop are a few minutes’ walk away.
Check the price of the Novotel Hotel Sydney at Darling Square
Central Station
Central Station is the main train and regional bus hub of the city, and the primary location for budget accommodation.
To the west, you’ll find youth hostels, Paddy’s Market and Chinatown, with all its delicious, cheap eats. On the east is Surry Hills, with bars, exciting food and hipsters.
Why should you stay near Central Station? It’s a budget-friendly spot for arrivals into Sydney by bus or train. Perfect for backpackers with tour agents, hostels, and bars to meet other travellers. Close to Chinatown and Surry Hills for cheap food.
What are the cons? Like all transport hubs, the streets here are not as picturesque and some parts can feel a little seedy.
Hotels near Central Station
Budget – Sydney Central YHA
The largest hostel in Sydney, Sydney Central YHA, is a 2-minute walk from Central Station.
Good public spaces, laundry facilities, a pool, and family or ensuite rooms are available. This would be my choice for a hostel bed in Sydney after the YHA in the Rocks.
Check out the rooms and prices of YHA Central Station
Mid range – Adina Apartment Hotel Central – great for self-catering
A couple of years ago, we had a staycation here for my birthday as we saw a show nearby. I was impressed with the apartment size and felt like I could have easily stayed longer.
It’s easy to prepare meals and save money with full kitchens and nearby produce markets. The location isn’t picturesque, but transportation is convenient. Despite the traffic, the room is quiet. Studios, one and two-bedroom apartments are available.
Check the prices of the Adina Apartment Hotel near Central
Paddington and Surry Hills
Surry Hills and neighbouring suburb Paddington are perfect for foodies or anyone seeking a local experience. I’ve grouped them together due to geography, but they have different atmospheres.
If you prefer pretending to be a local in a new city rather than a tourist in the main hotspots, check out these inner-east suburbs or villages.
Who should stay in Paddington?
Halfway between the city and Bondi, Paddington has pretty streets independent shops, cafes, historic pubs, and the hidden Paddington Reservoir.
The area has good bus service with the 333 connecting to Circular Quay or Bondi Beach. It’s a half-hour walk to the city.
Cons: The only major drawbacks are the lack of iconic sites nearby and mostly pricey dining.
Hotels in Paddington
Boutique – Mrs Banks Hotel
The Mrs Banks Hotel offers 30 rooms in a beautifully renovated art déco style building that was a branch of the Commonwealth Bank. The rooms are well-appointed, and the service is outstanding. Little touches like complimentary Tim Tams, water and Nespresso are much appreciated.
The location is perfect with buses to the city and the beach almost at the door. This is a brilliant choice for couples and solo travellers.
Look at the photos and reviews of Mrs Banks Hotel
Pet Friendly – Hughenden Boutique Hotel
BHughenden is a pet-friendly hotel built in the 1870s with rooms for those travelling with their furry friends. It offers a variety of room sizes, some with small kitchenettes. Most have recently been renovated. It is a few minutes’ walk from Centennial Park, perfect for dog walks or morning runs. The service is super friendly, and the 389 bus runs right by the door.
Check out the rooms and read reviews of the Hughenden
Hotels in Surry Hills
Surry Hills is home to 23 pubs, leafy streets of Victorian terraced houses, and an eclectic mix of residents. It’s just 1km from the CBD and sandwiched between Central Station, Paddington and Darlinghurst.
Who should stay in Surry Hills?
These days, they consider “hipster” a derogatory term, but it’s the image locals associate with Surry Hills. Think cold brew coffee, food that provides much Instagram hype and plenty of creative types strolling to work.
Cons: 30-40-minute walk to the harbour and major sites
Boutique – Crystalbrook Albion
This gorgeous small guest house is hidden away in a quiet laneway and punches way above its weight in service and style. The design includes thoughtful touches like the honesty bar and a variety of milk from Almond to skim and everything in between.
The staff are welcoming and helpful, ensuring you have everything you need. The decor is a mix of the 1920s and 1970s with exciting art choices, giving a unique feel to the place.
Check out more photos of the gorgeous Crystalbrook Albion
Mid-Range Adge Apartments
Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments are just a few minutes’ walk from the action on Crown Street. These units have lots of great inclusions like good quality coffee machines and apple docks. Some also feature balconies, and all have laundries. I am not a fan of the multicolour flooring, but other than that, this place is a great choice and only a few minutes’ walk from Oxford Street.
Check out the photos of the property (and the funky carpet) and find current prices
Self Contained – Adina Apartments
We have had three stayed here over the years for hens nights and birthdays. The apartments are well located for more extended stays with plenty of local eats at your doorstep.
The spacious apartments feature full-size kitchens and bathtubs. There is a courtyard, a swimming pool, and barbecue area.
Check out the most recent reviews at TripAdvisor before you book.
My friend Jean, over at Travelling Honeybird, has written a guide to Surry Hills that is packed with good tips if you are thinking of staying here.
Kings Cross and Potts Point
Once the city’s red-light district, these days, the Cross and surrounding areas of Potts Point and Elizabeth Bay are far more sedate.
My favourite thing about this part of town is that it has kept so many of the beautiful Victorian homes that sprung up in the 19th century when the colony finally had some wealthy residents. The streets are full of trees, and there are lots of lovely harbour views waiting to be found.
Who should stay in Kings Cross?
This is a great location for couples looking for some nightlife. The area has handy transport connections with both a train station and several key bus routes.
There are some outstanding 3-star boutique hotels in the leafy back streets and the area is filled with cute cafes, small bars and restaurants.
Some guide books might still refer to this area as a little rough, but I find it less so than some streets at the western end of the CBD near Central Station and always feel safe here.
Before you decide – this area would not be my first choice for families because there are few child-friendly activities in the area and some streets are quite steep for little legs and prams.
Some guidebooks might still refer to this area as a little rough, but I find it less so than some streets at the western end of the CBD near Central Station. I always feel safe here.
Check out our favourite Budget hotels in Kings Cross
Hotels in Potts Point and Kings Cross
Boutique – Hotel Challis
This hotel is a restored terrace house with few bells and whistles, but the location is fantastic, and the King rooms are well priced for Sydney. It’s an 8-minute walk to Kings Cross Station or a 25-minute walk to the Quay.
Read reviews and check the prices of the Hotel Challis
Budget – The Jensen
Located on leafy Macleay Street, the Jensen is a great choice if you are happy with a shared bathroom situation. Personally, I am past this, but the hotel is lovely in every other way. The individual bathrooms are just a few steps from your room, so it’s not a big deal for most people.
Read reviews and see if the Jensen is for you
Bondi Beach
Bondi attracts a young backpacker crowd and can be a lot of fun if you fit the demographic. It’s also great for families with teens.
Who should stay at Bondi Beach?
If you want to spend more time on the beach than checking out the sites, then this is a good choice. There are plenty of dining options (a superb choice for vegetarian and vegan travellers).
Check out our Insider’s Guide to Bondi for lots more on the popular part of town.
Before you book you should consider: Traffic getting in and out of Bondi is a nightmare most of the time. While there are plenty of buses up to the Junction, it can take ages to get there. From here, it’s only a 10-minute train ride to the city, but some days it can take 30 minutes on the bus from the beach to the station.
Hotels in Bondi
Self Contained – Adina Apartments Bondi Beach
If you plan on staying a while, these apartments are perfect for giving you a holiday during your holiday. All the comforts of home, including full kitchens and comfortable lounge furniture, are available.
It’s an easy walk to the beach, and there is a nice small pool that is undercover and good for hot days. The layout of some rooms is a bit confusing, but overall the bigger ones are a good option for families.
Take a look inside the apartments at Adina and see if they are right for you
Manly
This might be perfect if you are looking for the Aussie beach culture lifestyle that is so often portrayed in the media.
Who should stay in Manly
In the 1930s, when marketers began flogging Manly to local Sydneysiders as a perfect getaway destination, they coined the phrase “7 miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care”, and they were spot on.
You do feel quite remote from the city centre, which can be a good thing.There are plenty of dining options for evenings, and the city is a lovely 20-30 minute boat ride away.
Before you book: You need to factor in up to an hour’s return travel to do most of your sightseeing. If you are a larger group, you also need to consider the costs of the tickets.
Related: The Best Things To Do In Manly
Where to stay in Manly
Self Contained – Quest Manly at the Wharf
You will find the Quest Manly directly across from the wharf. The property is large (53-room) with water views and plenty of room for families.
The apartments here are bright and sunny with great harbour views. They offer studio, and one and two-bedroom units that can accommodate a max of 6 people and are close to supermarkets, shops and cafes.
Read reviews on check prices of Quest Manly
If you would prefer a self-contained apartment, try one of these
- Marine Parade – 1 bedroom apartments or studios directly opposite Shelly Beach
- Waterfront on Manly Harbour – 1 bedroom absolute harbour front just 700 m from Store Beach
- Art Deco apartment – Sunny 2 bedroom apartment just steps from the harbour
- Tusan Villa Little Manly – 4 bedroom apartment directly opposite Little Manly Beach, water views!
Where to stay in Sydney with kids
I have an entire article about the best places in Sydney to stay with kids that you should check out if you are travelling with your family.
The best areas to stay in Sydney according to Sydney Expert
To sum up our recommendations, here is where I would stay.
- Which areas in Sydney are the best for a very short stay (1-3 days)? The Rocks and Circular Quay as most of your sightseeing will be in this area.
- Where is the best place to stay in Sydney for families? Darling Harbour or the CBD due to the number of family friendly dining and kid approved activities.
- Which is the best area for food lovers to stay? Surry Hills, Paddington or Potts Point. These areas have lots of interesting small bars and cafes.
- The best places to stay in Sydney for budget travellers? Potts Point or Kings Cross. The concentration of affordable accommodation and its proximity to the harbour mean you can save on transport costs too.
- What are some good choices for honeymooners? Circular Quay or Manly.You will find Circular Quay has the highest concentration of 5 star harbour view hotels. Manly is my preferred choice for a romantic beach escape.
- Best places to get a local experience of Sydney? Newtown or Paddington. These two inner city villages are polar opposites but both allow you to live like a local.
- The best location for solo travellers? Potts Point, Central Station or The Rocks for budget hotels and hostels.
- The best area for a shopping holiday? The CBD. Hotels in walking distance of Pitt Street Mall or the Queen Victoria Building will make it easy to take shopping breaks in your room.
None of the hotels listed in this post has paid us to include them. Instead, we chose based on personal experience and feedback.
Have you stayed in any of these areas? Pop over to our Facebook group and share your tips
I find your ‘choosing where to stay’ article very appealing. I read it after I made my reservations, but I think I choose right. I’m staying at The Rocks, then going for a trip in Australia and, after that, return and stay at Potts Point. But in your ‘cons’ you said that The Rocks could be ‘rowdy’ and Potts Point ‘seedy’. What do you mean by that? They are rough neighborhoods for walking at night?
Hi Luis,
Thanks for your message – I probably need to do a bit of an update to this post. It was written a quite a few years ago, and things have changed a bit.
Seedy = Potts Point used to be full of bars and attracted a late night party crowd. It was a little run down and attracted lots of night owls. This has changed dramatically over the last few years, and I would not really consider it “seedy” anymore. I would feel safe walking in this area at night using the usual caution you would apply anywhere.
Rowdy = can be loud with drinkers after pubs close – to be honest this is usually only a problem on the weekends and then not a big issue these days. You would be unlikely to hear much once inside your accommodation, and the streets are certainly safe to walk. Off to do some updating now!
Hi. Once again your explanation was very helpful. It’s my first time in Australia and I’m very excited about it. Thanks again.
I will try staying at the the Rock too. After all been to Sydney past 20 years ago. Any good hotel to recommend ?So I think a lot of changes indeed. Looking forward. Your info really helps. Thanks
Hi Juliet,
There is a range of options in the Rocks depending on your budget from an excellent YHA with harbour views to the very swanky Park Hyatt. I think my favourite is the Harbour Rocks Hotel; I love the public areas and location of this building, however, I have not stayed there yet. I have enjoyed a stay at the Rendezvous and it a good choice too I think. There is also The Rocks Bed and Breakfast place that I have had friends speak highly of
Thanks for the information. Very useful. What about staying in the Bondi neighbourhood? Any thoughts?
Bondi Junction is good for transport and being able to get out and do some sightseeing. Bondi Beach is lovely, but the buses up to the junction (train) or the city can take ages, the traffic is pretty bad. It depends on what type of holiday you want. If you are planning to relax and spend a lot of time at the beach Bondi is great. There are plenty of places to eat and some lovely walks in the area.
Thank you for the reply, it is helpful. Maybe Bondi beach is not right for us. Planning to spend 4-6 weeks in Sydney and wanting to be in the heart of things. Will consider the other options you suggested. Hoping to get an apartment. Your site is great, I am going to use it to plan the trip (3-4 months in Australia and NZ)
The only place I have stayed in Sydney is Park Hyatt, so I am definitely spoiled. Hope my next lodging is also memorable.
Hello, my wife and I will be visiting Sydney in June. Due to our budget we’ll primarily be staying in Sydney and possibly staying around 10-11 days. Do you have any recommendations for hotels under $160 a night but in a nice part of town with plenty of restaurants, bars, shopping and not too far away from all the usual touristy stuff? I know I’m asking for a lot 🙂 Currently looking at The Grace, Tank Stream and Adina Sydney Town Hall. Would love any other recommendations for our stay as well.
Nice and helpful article. Probably a link to the Sydney trains map suits my two weeks stay at a friend’s home . Thanks a lot
My family consisting of 2 kids (12 and under) are travelling to Sydney from Canada as a stop over (4 days). However, having difficulty deciding where to stay as looking for an area that will be fun for kids, various eating options ($-$$), shopping, close to attractions. Have been looking at Holiday Inn at Rocks, Swisshotel, Grace hotel and Novotel at Darling Harbour. Also, can suggestions for fun food places to take them that aren’t overly expensive.
Thanks for your question. I noticed you have also posted it in the FB group and we have answered it there. Hope you have a fantastic visit to Sydney!
Hi,
Great article – lots of insightful info. I will be heading up to Manly for a few days for work but extending my time out there on the back end to relocate and visit the Sydney area. I am not a big fan of the tourist stuff or the “sites” but enjoy local craft beer (a lot) and going places where the locals go. I am trying to keep the room rate cheap so I have more money for the bars/beer/fun. Any suggestion would be much appreciated. I was digging the sound of staying at the Nelson but also liked the sound of Newtown. Maybe it would be wise to stay near Newtown since it wasn’t exactly recommended to stay there yet? Surry Hills doesn’t sound bad either. Thanks in advance.
Sorry for missing your comment – it landed in our spam filter. The inner-west sounds like a perfect spot for you. There are some great Airbnbs in Newtown that would have you in walking distance or a short train ride to several great craft breweries. I don’t recommend Newtown to most travellers because there are limited accommodation options for it is good for Airbnb.
Hi,
Great article and it was most helpful understanding the different options for stay.
We are looking to travel to Sydney next October and will not have a car. We are the type that don’t mind walking and exploring the tourist sites of Sydney, but would also like to be able to be near the beach. We will likely have 4 to 5 days. It feels like a combination of areas that you mentioned would work, however, we don’t want to have to transfer accommodations once we get there.
Could you please suggest a location that you think might meet our needs?
Thank you for your assistance!
Hi Karen, I would consider Manly. It’s a 30 minute trip across the harbour to the main city sites but what a way to travel! There are lots of restaurants and cafes for dinner and you can spend sometime exploring the Northern Beaches which is one of the most beautiful and undervisited parts of the city.
Hi, your site is very informative.
We will be two couples staying in Sydney for a month and welcome suggestions on which neighbourhoods we might focus on for our home rental to experience the Sydney lifestyle, ideally close to water
I enjoyed a previous stay in Double Bay, with balcony over harbour, ferry access and swimming at Murray Rose pool, but there aren’t many rentals.
I wondered this time if the Coogee/Clovelly area might be nice choice for swimming and access to markets and restaurants? Transit in to circular quay might be consideration
Or perhaps Elizabeth Bay, or Potts point or Paddington better choices
Welcome your suggestions! Thanks
Hi Kathryn, Coogee is lovely but transit to the city needs to be a consideration, it can take quite some time and they recently changed a lot of bus services so a direct trip can be a challenge to find. Elizabeth Bay and Potts Point are personal favourites. They have a nice community vibe, lots of cafes and dining choices, good local market every weekend in Fitzroy Gardens (Kings Cross Market). You can walk to the city or choose from very regular bus and train services. Both can be a little edgy at times but thats part of the charm.
If you want to be near the beach Paddington has the edge as you can jump on the 333 bus which runs every 10 minutes or so directly to North Bondi (https://transportnsw.info/routes/details/sydney-buses-network/333/30333)
Personally I would not choose Coogee and pick either of the other three but that’s just me 🙂
Hello Matt, I hope you don’t mind me messaging. Loving all your information. Heading to Sydney next year September 2023 for 11 nights with my partner. We are in our late 30s have no children and love nights out. Looking for somewhere close to the action and good bar location and restaurants. We are not treating this as just a holiday but maybe to relocate our lives if we like the lifestyle of what Sydney has to offer. It will be a holiday of a life time for us as we will be traveling from the Isle of Man so I need to choose the right location for us. Living in the Isle of Man we are surrounded by the coast line and usually in walking distance as the island is very small, it’s beautiful. For us the island is too small and very quite and feel we have out grown it. Sydney of course comes with fantastic weather and it looks stunning. Any recommendations I would be most grateful ☺️
Hi Rachel, Matt’s comment is a couple of years old now so you might get a better response from our FaceBook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/Sydneyexpert
I would suggest you look at Potts Point, Elisabeth Bay, Darlinghurst and Surry Hills to begin
Hi,
Thank you for the informative article.
I will be travelling alone to Sydney for 6 days to attend a concert at Qudos Bank Area.
Being alone, im undecided between places with easy access to transportation and/or areas full of shops/cafes to explore.
I was thinking of Pullman for post concert stay as its nearer. from Pullman’s location -it is too far from me to explore Sydney before the concert.
Please help if you have any recommendations for me
You can take the train or ferry to the city – the station is a few minutes walk away from the Pullman and the trip will take about 30-40 minutes. You could also take an uber down to the ferry wharf, its a bit far to walk (4km) but its a lovely way to get to the city and takes a similar time.
Hi, thank you very much for your post. Unfortunately, I have found it a bit late and all the hotels you recommended are booked for the days between 30 December – 4 January.
We have booked Holiday Inn Express Sydney Airport, which is 7 km away from the centre.
Do you think it is ok to stay there for 5 nights and be able to explore the city? Or should we try to find anything better? I know that it is a bit late but probably with some luck … 🙂
Thank you very much on your comments about the hotel.
Best,
Julia
Hi Julia There are hotels in Mascot around the suburban Mascot train station that would make getting in and out of the city much easier. I have explored most of them and given thoughts here https://sydneyexpert.com/sydney-airport-hotel/
Also look at Green Square – Skye Suites and Veriu are both right by the station.