Looking for where to stay in Sydney? In Australia’s largest city, you could spend days or even weeks exploring all the major attractions and hidden Sydney secrets without getting bored. This Australian city has it all!
Starting from the spectacular Opera House and continuing with the beautiful Darling Harbour and lively Circular Quay to the historic neighbourhood of The Rocks, Sydney in New South Wales is the kind of city where you will always stumble on something cool or new!
The city is also a popular starting point to see other parts of Australia or take a road trip north to Brisbane or south to Melbourne.
When I first visited Sydney (as an exchange student way back in 2006!), I quickly realized that navigating the city on your own can be overwhelming and expensive.
Now that I live on the Gold Coast, I often travel to Sydney for events or a city getaway and every time I try and stay in another part. I created this guide to show you the best places where to stay in Sydney, no matter what budget or what you’re looking for, close to the beach, in the central business district, among all its historic buildings, or close to nightlife in Kings Cross. I got you!
Best Hotels in Sydney: My Top Picks
Where to Stay in Sydney: Area Overview
One of the things I like most about Sydney is its relaxing attitude and cosmopolitan lifestyle, it truly has a world-city vibe like New York! Each corner is filled with culture, history, fashion, and gastronomy.
As someone who has travelled to unfamiliar cities, I understand the uncertainty that comes with being a first-time visitor. It can be challenging to determine the city’s center or which is the best area to stay in Sydney and which is most appealing to explore so I highlighted the most popular neighbourhoods to stay in Sydney below.
Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Sydney
Best area for:
The Sydney Central Business District and Darling Harbour are definitely the most popular and best areas to stay in Sydney for tourists. I recommend staying in either of those two neighbourhoods when visiting the city and looking for where to stay in Sydney for the first time. Darling Harbour is also super family-friendly.
Here you will find the main tourist attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, Hyde Park and Sydney Harbour Bridge close by.
Darling Harbour is the quieter, family-friendly choice for the city center but it’s still super close to all the action and, therefore, one of the best locations to stay in Sydney.
The neighborhood of Darling Harbour has a lot to offer around King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay Wharf, including waterfront dining, shopping, museums, and entertainment venues.
Here you’ll find museums, theaters, the popular Wild Life Sydney Zoo and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, art exhibitions and plenty of entertainment venues, it truly is one of the best areas to stay in Sydney with family.
From here, you can also cross over Pyrmont Bridge and find the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre and Harbourside Shopping Centre, which is currently undergoing redevelopment.
If you are also passionate about shopping, this is one of the best places to stay in Sydney, as it is known for its streets with stores waiting for shoppers. Pitt Street Mall is the epicentre of shipping in central Sydney.
Both the Sydney CBD and Darling Harbour are great areas if you are wondering where to stay in Sydney without a car because they are easy to navigate by foot or metro.
Also, Circular Quay is right there, making it easy to catch a ferry to Manly or go Harbour hopping to destinations like Taronga Zoo, Watson’s Bay and more.
The Best Hotels to Stay in Sydney CBD
Best Luxury Hotel: The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
I will always remember the satin bed sheets at this hotel, so luxurious, just like the rest of the hotel. This is one of the most exquisite places to stay in the Sydney CBD, placed right next to Martin Place.
Set in the heritage-listed Sydney General Post Office, you can expect spacious rooms with luxurious amenities, a fitness centre, high-speed Wi-Fi and a great breakfast buffet. You will be just 15 minutes away from Darling Harbor and Chinatown.
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Best Boutique Hotel in Sydney CBD: QT Sydney
If you wonder where to stay in Sydney CBD, then QT Sydney offers you a day spa, café, bar, and restaurant. It is located in the historic Gowings Department Store and very close to the State Theatre.
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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Darling Harbour: PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, offering unparalleled views of the iconic harbour. I really loved my stay at this hotel, with its modern amenities and exceptional dining options.
The hotel is great for first-time travellers to Sydney as well as business travellers as it’s close to the Sydney Convention Center also.
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Best Backpackers in Sydney CBD: The Pod Sydney
I found the Pod when I was looking for short-stay accommodation in Sydney. I like it because it is very close to the Central Train Station and right in the heart of the CBD neighbourhood. Thus, access to the main attraction points and shopping areas is very facile.
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Best Boutique Hotel in Darling Harbour: Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour
Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour is a stylish and contemporary hotel located in Sydney’s bustling Darling Harbour precinct that comes with modern rooms, on-site dining, and excellent amenities, such as a rooftop pool and fitness center. It offers convenient access to the city’s top attractions and entertainment venues.
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Best Unique Place to Stay in Sydney: Hotel Woolstore 1888
The Woolstore 1888 is a beautifully restored heritage building located just a 5-minute walk from Sydney’s famous Darling Harbour. I loved staying at this boutique hotel when it was part of the Ovolo Group! It features stylish rooms and suites, a 24-hour fitness center, a Mediterranean restaurant, and convenient access to top attractions, including the Sydney International Convention Centre and the Powerhouse Museum.
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Alternative Area to Stay in Sydney CBD: Barangaroo
If you’re looking to be centrally located, but Darling Harbour or right in the middle of the CBD isn’t for you, I recommend looking at Barangaroo, a much more recent urban development located on the waterfront in Sydney just next to the CBD.
Here, you’ll find a mix of commercial, residential, and recreational spaces, as well as public art installations and lots of green spaces, that are recognized for their eco-friendly and sustainable design, with numerous buildings and public spaces employing environmentally friendly materials and practices.
Barangaroo is home to several world-class restaurants, bars, and shops and is a popular destination with a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
While you won’t find many hotel accommodation options here, I do recommend two hotels, both boasting stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Travel Tip: If you stay in one of the below Sydney hotels, I recommend a walk on the Wulugul Walk in Barangaroo. It provides a stunning foreshore promenade for pedestrians and cyclists, connecting the 11km harbourside walk from Woolloomooloo to the Anzac Bridge and allowing public access to this previously inaccessible area.
Crown Towers Sydney
Crown Towers Sydney is a luxurious five-star hotel located in Barangaroo, featuring 349 elegantly furnished guest rooms and suites. The hotel also offers world-class dining options, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and breathtaking Sydney Harbour views and city skyline views.
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The Langham Sydney
The Langham Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Sydney, close to Barangaroo Reserve and one of my favorite places in Sydney, Observatory Hill Park. This elegant hotel features fine dining options, a full-service spa, and an outdoor heated pool in a secluded courtyard.
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Want to compare other hotels? Check out more of the best hotels in Sydney CBD here.
2. Where to Stay in Sydney for Couples & Opera House Views: The Rocks & Circular Quay
Best area for:
I like The Rocks neighbourhood because of its history and impressive old buildings, and if you like little weekend markets and lively streets too, The Rocks are the best part of Sydney to stay in.
From most hotels in The Rocks you also get a direct view over to the Opera House, making this area popular for watching the famous New Year’s Eve fireworks.
I love the gourmet street food, lots of great restaurants and bars and the variety of cafes where I enjoy my morning coffee whenever I am staying in The Rocks. It’s a great area to take one of The Rocks walking tours and learn about Sydney in colonial times.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some Sydney foods, such as the iconic “Sydney Rock Oysters”, renowned for their exceptional freshness and unique flavor profile, or indulge in a classic Australian “Pavlova,” a dessert featuring a crisp meringue shell topped with fresh fruits, embodying the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Yum!
Circular Quay is next to The Rocks and serves as a major transport hub in Sydney. Here you can find a range of accommodations, including many luxury hotels with Sydney Harbour Bridge or Opera House views. Plus, staying here you’ll be within walking distance of all the iconic sights.
This part of town is also great if you are looking to stay in Sydney without a car as it is very walkable to all the main attractions. Plus, it offers convenient access to public transport: you can catch a ferry to Manly from Circular Quay or hop on a train at Circular Quay railway station.
Best Hotels to Stay in The Rocks
Best Luxury Hotel in Sydney The Rocks: Park Hyatt Sydney
One of the most luxurious hotels in Sydney where you can enjoy impeccable service. At Park Hyatt, you’ll be stunned by the staff’s friendliness and exquisite front-row views of the Sydney Opera House. Located between the Sydney Opera and Harbor Bridge, this is one of those hotels in The Rocks which is worth every penny.
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Best Boutique Hotels in The Rocks: Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney
The homey feeling makes a real difference at this hotel, complete with flatscreen LCD TV, a desk and an iPod docking station. And it’s only 5 minutes from the Harbour Bridge. Don’t miss visiting the restaurant and the heritage dining room, where you will enjoy some of the finest dishes in Sydney.
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Best Luxury Hotel with Harbour Views: Pier One Sydney Harbour
This is one of my favourite boutique hotels in Sydney. It is built on the water and offers a private pontoon and amazing panoramic views over the Sydney Harbour and Harbour Bridge. I strongly recommend it if you want a unique accommodation alternative away from the hustle and bustle of the center but still close enough to get there quickly.
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Best Backpacker Hostel In The Rocks: Sydney Harbour YHA
If you are passionate about history and great views, then this hostel is exactly what you’re looking for when staying close to the action of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and CBD.
Don’t miss the rooftop with stunning views towards the Opera House! It is located in the heart of The Rocks district, being very close to many of Sydney’s heritage buildings, beautiful weekend markets and boutique shops. If you don’t feel like staying in a dorm room, you can also book private rooms for yourself and your family.
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Check out more of the best hotels in The Rocks here.
3. Where to Stay in Sydney’s Hipster Neighborhood (+ For Foodies): Surry Hills
Best area for:
If you ask me which is the coolest neighbourhood to stay in Sydney, I wouldn’t think twice about answering Surry Hills.
I love taking long walks through the streets, enjoying some of the tastiest brunches as well as discovering unique little gems in the vintage shops and galleries along Crown Street, the main artery of the neighbourhood.
The neighborhood of Surry Hills offers a great location and convenient access to Sydney’s Central Station, a major transportation hub that can take you to any destination within the city, including Sydney Airport.
Next door to Surry Hill, you’ll find another trendy suburb. Paddington in Sydney is a charming suburb that offers a diverse range of boutique accommodations and trendy cafes, making it an ideal place to stay for visitors.
Additionally, the Paddington Reservoir Gardens along Oxford Street is a unique public park that blends historic architecture with modern landscaping, is a must-visit attraction when staying in Sydney for a weekend, as it hosts a super cool market every Saturday.
Best Hotels to Stay in Surry Hills
Best Luxury Hotel in Surry Hills: Crystalbrook Albion Hotel
Being very close to the city centre, Crystalbrook Albion is a cool place to stay in Sydney’s hipster neighborhood, Surry Hills, with quick access to the main points of interest.
Moreover, the first moment you enter this hotel, you will be surrounded by an atmosphere of peace and harmony, making you feel at home. The light complimentary breakfast every morning is an extra plus.
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Best Boutique Hotels in Surry Hills: Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Surry Hills
If you are looking for more space and privacy when staying in Sydney, you should try these modern apartments, which are just about 10 minutes away from Central Station. Plus, you can enjoy some hours by their swimming pool and the barbecue area.
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Best 4-Star Hotel in Surry Hills: 57 Hotel
When you visit Sydney, chances are that you want to do some shopping. Book a room at 57 Hotel as it is very close to Crown Street, Surry Hill’s main street lined with terrace houses, laidback parks and trendy foodie hotspots.
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Best Backpackers in Surry Hills: Big Backpackers Hostel
I am sure you will enjoy this place with extra good vibes if you are travelling to Sydney as a backpacker. Big Backpackers Hostel in Surry Hills offers a self-catering kitchen where you can prepare your meals if you want. Plus, the welcoming staff will do their best to make you feel at home. Also, a cool place to meet some other travellers!
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Want to compare other hotels in Surry Hills? Check out more of the best hotels in Surry Hills here.
4. Where to Stay in Sydney By The Beach: Bondi Beach
Best area for:
You cannot go to Sydney without spending at least one day at the beach. World-famous Bondi Beach can easily be accessed from the CBD as plenty of buses to this destination exist.
Apart from the delicious dishes served at the restaurants nearby, you can also spend your day exploring the little shops nearby or start the Bondi to Coogee Walk, one of the best coastal walks in Sydney.
Surely, it’s famous and popular and therefore also rated as one of the best suburbs to stay in Sydney if you want to be outside the city center and closer to the ocean.
Best Hotels to Stay in Bondi Beach
Best 5-Star hotel in Bondi Beach: Hotel Ravesis
Located at the heart of Bondi Beach, Hotel Ravesis is a historic and iconic establishment in Sydney’s coastal hospitality scene. Spread over two floors and boasting an upper level with spacious terraces that envelop an elegant dining room, a luxurious late-night club area, and a timeless beachside public bar.
With its rich history and prime location, Hotel Ravesis offers a unique and stylish retreat for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant Bondi Beach atmosphere.
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Best Apartments in Bondi Beach: Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach
When planning to visit Bondi Beach, you naturally need to stay in a hotel close to the beach. Adina Apartments are great, offering you top services and modern amenities. Plus, if you don’t want to spend the entire day at the beach, you can relax by the swimming pool or try the hot tub or the fitness centre.
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Best Boutique Hotel in Bondi Beach: QT Bondi
If I were to describe this hotel in a few words, I would say that the beds are super comfortable, the décor is cool, and the hotel rooms are spacious and super clean. Plus, the location is excellent, with a short 5-minute walk to the sandy shores.
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Best Backpackers in Bondi Beach: Wake Up! Bondi Beach
This is the best place to stay in Bondi Beach for surfers and travellers looking to explore the loveable beachside neighbourhood of Sydney to its fullest. It is located literally less than 1 minute away from Bondi Beach. Its main highlight is the rooftop terrace where you can spend some fun moments with newfound traveller friends.
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Check out more of the best hotels in Bondi Beach here.
5. Where to Stay in Sydney For Nightlife & Backpackers: Kings Cross
Best area for:
When travelling on a budget, the best place to stay in Sydney is Kings Cross.
It’s certainly still a more grungy part of town, formerly known as the Red Light District; the neighbourhood is a great place to stay for budget travellers looking for cheap hotels and hostels.
In recent years, it has been undergoing a bit of an evolution phase, offering you plenty of trendy cafes and boutique pop-ups to spend your time.
Best Budget Accommodation In Kings Cross
Mad Monkey Backpackers
Who wouldn’t want to be just a few minutes drive from the Sydney Opera House and stay in an affordable hostel? Mad Monkey Backpackers is proof that you can stay in a decent, friendly, and cosy hotel in Sydney without spending a fortune on accommodation.
The hostel is also a 5-minute walk from Kings Cross Railway Station, making it easy to connect you to the rest of the city.
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Original Backpackers
This hostel is located in a refurbished Victorian-style mansion and is a great place to stay if you like to party in Kings Cross. Moreover, the outdoor courtyard of this budget accommodation is great, and it has a friendly atmosphere where you can meet other travellers and share itinerary ideas.
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Mad Monkey East Side
Mad Monkey Easy Side is a budget-friendly hostel located in the vibrant area of Kings Cross, Sydney. This hostel features both private double rooms and dormitory-style accommodations. Choose a 4 or 6-bed dorm, it’s just nicer instead of a 12-bed dorm!
It has a communal kitchen and several other communal rooms, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a fun and social atmosphere. Close to the Sydney Opera House and within walking distance from the train and bus station to get you to Oxford Street, back to the city centre, or all the way to Bondi Beach.
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Alternative Places to Stay Nearby Kings Cross
If you like to stay close to the nightlife of Kings Cross but prefer a more stylish and modern hotel, I recommend the next-door neighborhood of Woolloomooloo or the upscale Potts Points, just west of the historic Elizabeth Bay House.
Woolloomoolo is a historic wharf that has transformed into a trendy destination featuring upscale dining, chic bars, and scenic waterfront vistas from all angles.
In Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Potts Point is a cosmopolitan neighborhood that blends art-deco architecture with contemporary dining and some good nightlife.
Despite the limited availability of Sydney accommodation in both areas, you can still find some exceptional and exclusive lodging options that offer a less grungy alternative to Kings Cross.
Best Hotels in Woolloomooloo & Potts Point
Most Unique Place to Stay in Sydney: Ovolo Woolloomooloo Hotel (My Fav!)
There are two words I would use to describe this hotel: cool and quirky. I am sure you will love the view and the indoor pool. Moreover, it is right next to the Royal Botanical Garden, which you can visit for free, and at 15 minutes walking distance from the Opera House.
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Want to compare more options in the Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo area? Check out additional budget accommodation in Kings Cross here.
6. Where to Stay in Sydney Off The Beaten Path: North Sydney
Best area for:
I recently stayed in the North Sydney neighbourhood for the first time and loved the mix of convenience and a more local feel.
Just across the Harbour Bridge from the CBD, this area of Sydney offers stunning waterfront views, leafy parks, and a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. One of my favourite parks, a true hidden gem of Sydney, is located here: Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, which is an absolute must-visit!
The area is home to trendy cafes and charming neighborhoods like Kirribilli (make sure you visit the markets – find the next date here) and Lavender Bay, making it a great spot to explore. Plus, it’s got an easy metro connection to the CBD, so you can still experience all of Sydney’s major attractions while enjoying a quieter, more laid-back, and overall better-valued stay.
Some other gems to explore in the surrounding area include Blue Point Reserve, a scenic waterfront park with breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, perfect for a picnic or sunset stroll. I also loved visiting Maccallum Seawater Pool, which has the most stunning city views across to the Opera House and is worth a refreshing dip.
Best Hotels to Stay in North Sydney
I stayed in a studio room on the 23rd floor at Citadines Walker North Sydney, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour with glimpses of the Harbour Bridge. The modern room was sleek and comfortable, and I loved how the frosted window to the bathroom let in soft, natural light.
Downstairs, Bar Lettera, the hotel’s restaurant, was a highlight. I stopped by for breakfast, but dinner was fantastic—great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff. I highly recommend the duck ragu rigatoni and signature bread with herb butter, both absolute standouts! And don’t skip the tiramisu—one of the best I’ve had in a while.
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Where to Stay in Sydney Map
Where to Stay in Sydney: Comparison Table
Where to Stay in Sydney – Frequently Asked Questions
📍 Where is the city center and main street in Sydney?
The city center of Sydney is located around the central business district (CBD), George Street being the main and most significant street that runs through the CBD. The street runs from The Rocks in the north, through the CBD, towards Chinatown and Haymarket in the south.
Located precisely in the heart of Sydney’s central business district and perpendicular to George Street is Pitt Street Mall, the city’s main shopping destination.
⭐ Where is the coolest neighbourhood to stay in Sydney?
The coolest neighborhood to stay in Sydney is Surry Hills, one of the most trendy and vibrant areas. It’s known for its stylish boutiques, excellent cafes and restaurants, and artistic vibe.
💸 Is Sydney expensive to visit?
Sydney is generally considered an expensive city to visit, with high costs for accommodation, dining, and attractions compared to many other destinations around Australia. However, in my eyes, it is certainly worth it, Sydney is a fantastic city and it’s just got a certain vibe to it that you will not find elsewhere in Australia.
📅 How many days do you need in Sydney?
Are you wondering how many days are needed to explore Sydney? You can spend as little as 2 days in Sydney or as much as a week, there is always something to see and do, and you surely won’t get bored! However, I find 4 or 5 days are ideal; this way, you can enjoy different parts of the city, head out to Bondi Beach or take the ferry to visit Manly. You could even go on a day trip or overnight to the nearby Blue Mountains or head to the Royal National Park with its famous Figure 8 Pools.
❓How can I choose between a visit to Melbourne or Sydney?
To decide between visiting Melbourne or Sydney, consider your personal preferences: Sydney offers iconic landmarks and beaches, while Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts, culture and coffee scene. Choose based on your interests and the experiences you seek. I personally like Sydney slightly more than Melbourne but both cities offer an amazing yet different experience.
A perfect 4-day itinerary to Sydney could look something like this:
Day 1: Explore Circular Quay, visit the Opera House and Botanic Gardens, view the Harbour Bridge, and finish with dinner in The Rocks or Darling Harbour
Day 2: Head to Bondi Beach, go on the Bondi to Coogee Walk, and finish your day at one of the trendy bars and restaurants in Surry Hills
Day 3: Take the Ferry to Manly and spend the day hiking, snorkeling, surfing or shopping on Sydney’s northern beaches
Day 4: Go on a day trip to the famous Blue Mountains or enjoy good food and wine visiting the Hunter Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in Australia
Read my extensive Sydney itinerary for more inspiration on what to see and do in Australia’s most cosmopolitan city.
☀️ When Is The Best Time To Visit Sydney?
Generally, Sydney is a great city to visit year-round, as the weather is warm and temperate. Sydney is hottest during December and January, which also attracts a lot of school holiday crowds. The coldest month of the year in Sydney is June, with around 14 degrees daily on average. You will have the best time visiting Sydney from September through November and from late February to May. During those months, temperatures are comfortable, it’s generally sunny, and tourist crowds will be less.
🚗 How Do You Get Around Sydney?
Do you need a car in Sydney? And are you wondering where can I stay in Sydney without a car? The answer is you totally do not need a car when staying in Sydney. Unless you want to do a lot of different day trips on your own into the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley, for example. Also, keep in mind that parking in the Sydney CBD is madness, and you will have to pay extra at your accommodation for a parking spot. Taking public transport is your best bet if you want to get around Sydney cheaply. Many parts of Sydney are also flat and very walkable!
So how do you get around Sydney? Here are a few ways:
- When you arrive at the airport, you’re likely to take the airport train into the city where your accommodation is. If you have a very late flight in or early flight out, it also pays to stay at one of the Sydney airport hotels.
- The Sydney Lightrail connects you from Central to Circular Quay with all the major stops in between: Chinatown, Townhall, QVB, Wynyard and Grosvenor Street. The Sydney Lightrail will also take you to Bondi Junction and the Sydney Convention Centre.
- The Sydney Metro runs frequently across the city and connects the CBD with the city’s North, South and West. If you are looking at where should I stay in Sydney as a tourist, the Sydney metro will easily bring you from Sydney Central Station to Pitt Street (the main shopping street), Martin Place (a pedestrianized inner-city street), and Barangaroo, which is right by the waters of Sydney Harbour.
- Many buses across the Sydney CBD connect the inner city to Surry Hills, Kings Cross, and Bondi Beach.
- Taking the ferry across to Manly is a highlight of any visit to Sydney. You can get to many other parts of Sydney by ferry as well, for example, to the Sydney Zoo or the Watsons Bay Hotel, which is a beautiful spot to visit for a sunset over a drink.
- Of course, Sydney has Uber and other taxi services that you can use on-demand.
Where to Stay in Sydney – Final Words
Sydney offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious five-star hotels with rooftop swimming pools in the heart of the city to budget-friendly hostels in vibrant areas like Kings Cross, travellers can find a place to stay that meets their needs and allows them to experience the best of this vibrant city.
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