Where to stay in Sydney: best areas and neighborhoods
Open IndexSydney is one of the most famous cities in the world. A destination loved by everyone, from backpackers to families, thanks to the great variety of attractions and things to do! It is a very large city, so choosing where to stay is essential, especially based on the type of holiday you want. Here are all our tips on where to sleep in Sydney.
Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Sidney
If this is your first time visiting Sydney or you only have a few days to spare, the best solution is to stay in the CBD, the central district. In the immediate vicinity there are other suburbs to choose from according to your needs: if you are traveling with your family Circular Quays is an excellent solution, while if you are looking for a bit of nightlife we recommend The Rocks.
If nightlife is your thing, other great areas to stay are Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and Potts Point, the latter also includes the old red light district of Kings Cross. Potts Point and Haymarket are close to the train station, they are also an excellent solution for those on a budget. If you are travelling as a family, it is better to opt for the residential suburb of Paddington.
If you want to stay near the sea, the two most suitable solutions are: Bondi Beach, recommended for young people, frequented by backpackers and ideal for surfing; and Manly, ideal for families and those who want a bit of tranquillity. Given the distance from the centre and the main attractions, these two areas are only worth considering if you are staying in the city for at least a week
- Recommended areas to stay on a budget: Potts Point, Haymarket
- Recommended areas for families with children: CBD, Circular Quay, Paddington, Manly
- Recommended areas for young people: The Rocks, Potts Point, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Bondi Beach
- Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Sydney. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking
If you are in Sydney for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on Booking.com
Guide to the areas of Sydney
Sydney is a very large city indeed! It is home to more than 5 million inhabitants and extends over 12,367 sq km. Therefore, understanding the best neighbourhood to stay in is essential.
The metropolitan area of the city is formally divided into over 300 suburbs, managed by 37 Local Government Areas. The central suburb is the CBD, the Central Business District, the financial heart of the city. From here the various suburbs branch off. This is the best area to stay.
Not recommended areas: outlying areas such as Blacktown, Redfern, Bankstown, Cabramatta, Fairfield, Perith and Liverpool. These are suburbs very far from the CBD.
CBD
The CBD is the Central Business District, the commercial and financial heart of Sydney. This is the suburb that includes some of the best attractions in the city, such as the Sydney Tower Eye observation deck, the beautiful Hyde Park and Darling Harbour! Its borders are marked by Circular Quay to the north, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Hyde Park to the east, Darling Harbour to the west and Goulburn Street to the south.
This is definitely the best area to stay in Sydney, especially if it is your first time visiting the city or if you are only staying for a few days. It is an area suitable above all for families who are looking for all amenities within walking distance. The nightlife is concentrated in other areas of the city.
Staying here means everything is within walking distance: Circular Quay, with the Opera House, is a stone's throw away, as is the Harbour Bridge. The whole suburb is also well served by numerous train, bus and tram lines!
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €25,00 for low-cost accommodation to €400,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Metro Apartments On Darling Harbour | Apartment residence 2 min walk from Darling Harbor. Tour desk, dry cleaning service, WiFi and luggage storage. Ideal for couples and families |
| Siesta Sydney | Hostel 10 min walk from The Rocks. Laundry, kitchen and rooms with shared bathrooms. Ideal for young people |
| Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park | 5-star hotel overlooking Hyde Park. Restaurant, bar, 24-hour top-floor gym and indoor pool with glass ceiling. Ideal for couples and families |
| Hyatt Regency Sydney | 5-star hotel in the heart of the CBD, close to Darling Harbour. 24-hour gym, parking, state-of-the-art meeting spaces and Hyatt E-Concierge. Ideal for business travellers |
Circular Quay-Sydney Harbour
The suburb of Circular Quay is one of the most fascinating areas of the city. Overlooking Sydney Harbour, or the marina, is the iconic Opera House, symbol of the city and Australia around the world. You will also find the wonderful Royal Botanic Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia just a stone's throw away.
It is a perfect area for those traveling on a high budget. It is busy during the day but quiet in the evening, as the nightlife is concentrated in the nearby suburb of The Rocks. Staying here means you will be in the city centre, a few steps from the main attractions and with all services at your fingertips. Here you will find mainly 5-star hotels. Consequently, it is one of the most expensive areas of the city.
Staying here will allow you to move with peace of mind throughout Sydney. The suburb is served by the Circular Quay train and tram stop and boat excursions and ferries depart from here to reach areas such as Manly!
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €100,00 for low-cost accommodation to €600,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney | Luxury suites and apartments with views of the harbour. Gym, bar and restaurant. Ideal for couples, families and groups of up to 5 people |
| Four Seasons Hotel Sydney | 5-star hotel of the well-known chain. Bar, restaurant, gym, swimming pool and luxurious rooms overlooking Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Ideal for couples |
| Sir Stamford at Circular Quay | 5-star hotel with outdoor swimming pool, gym, restaurant and bar. Incredible harbour views. Ideal for couples and families |
| Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour | 5-star hotel with luxurious rooms with spa bath and views of the harbour and Royal Botanic Gardens. Indoor pool, restaurant and bar. Ideal for couples and families |
The Rocks
In the same area as Circular Quay and Harbour Bridge is The Rocks, the historic core of Sydney. Here you can stroll among ancient buildings, markets and lively streets, full of clubs and pubs. The Rocks Market is also held at weekends, with street food and local crafts. It is definitely one of the most characterful areas of Sydney, and among the best to stay!
Given its lively character, it is especially recommended for young people and those looking for a little fun. At the weekend, this place becomes quite noisy, with clubs open until late. The nightlife is not wild, but it is certainly not an area fully recommended for families.
The suburb is in a very central location: bordering the CBD and Circular Quay, it is also well served by trains and trams, taking the nearby port stop as a reference.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €60,00 for low-cost accommodation to €500,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Mercantile Hotel | Historic 3-star hotel in the heart of The Rocks. Restaurant with live music performances. Ideal for young people and couples |
| Sydney Harbour YHA | Hostel with panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the Opera House. TV lounge, pool tables and fully equipped shared kitchen.Private room or bed in dormitory. Ideal for young people |
| Discover The Rocks - Historical Terrace House | Apartment complex with equipped kitchen, private bathroom and balcony. 3 bedrooms, up to 8 people. Ideal for groups |
| Park Hyatt Sydney | 5-star hotel with spa and wellness centre with various treatments, heated swimming pool and gym. Restaurant, bar and room service. Ideal for couples |
Potts Point
We move away from the CBD slightly to reach Potts Point, the suburb that develops west of the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Finger Wharf. This is the area where Kings cross, the city's red light district was located. Today it is renowned for its nightlife, neon-lit clubs and numerous bars. It is a very lively suburb, even during the day, thanks to numerous trendy shops, cafes and clubs!
It is an area especially recommended for young people. In addition to the nightlife, there are lots of chepaer accommodation options, such as clean hostels frequented by backpackers, as well as by young people who have moved to experience life abroad.
You will have to use public transport. There are numerous bus stops along Kings Cross Road. Alternatively, along Williams Street, the CBD is a 20 minute walk away.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €25,00 for low-cost accommodation to €300,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Hotel Challis | 3-star hotel in a historic building. Large rooms, some with balcony. Parking and WiFi . Ideal for couples |
| Hump Backpackers | Hostel in the heart of Kings Cross, surrounded by bars, cafes, restaurants and clubs. Shared room and kitchen. Dorms for 6 to 12 people. Ideal for young people |
| Annam Serviced Apartments | Apartment residence with modern studios with fully equipped kitchens and free WiFi. Ideal for couples |
| Holiday Inn Potts Point | 4-star hotel close to Kings Cross train station. Gym, restaurant and room service. Ideal for couples and families |
Darlinghurst
Due to its proximity to Kings Cross (and Potts Point), Darlinghurst also housed some old brothels in the past, now replaced by cafes, pubs, clubs, art galleries and vintage shops. Today it is one of the trendiest areas in Sydney, particularly frequented by the LGBT community, along Oxford Street there are numerous clubs displaying the rainbow flag.
It is a lively and animated suburb, especially in the evening, thanks to the presence of theatres, pubs and clubs. It is therefore ideal for young people and those looking for nightlife. There are so many things to do here, get ready to stay up all night!
Staying here will enable you to move around the city with ease.The suburb borders Hyde Park and Kings Cross, so it is very central. The CBD and Circular Quay areas are also very close. Furthermore, the area is well served by public transport!
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €50,00 for low-cost accommodation to €150,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Darlo Bar Darlinghurst | 3-star hotel with rooms with shared bathroom. Ground floor bar and garden. ATMs, pool tables and dedicated smoking areas. Ideal for young people |
| ibis budget Sydney East | Budget hotel with air-conditioned rooms with en suite and TV. Ideal location between Darlinghurst and Kings Cross. Ideal for couples and young people |
| Sydney Boutique Hotel | Hotel with bar and rooms equipped with flat-screen smart TVs and private bathroom, some also have a terrace or balcony. Ideal for couples and families |
| Larmont Sydney by Lancemore | 5-star hotel with rooms overlooking the city. 24-hour reception, yoga room and health club. Ideal for couples |
Paddington
Moving west, after Darlinghurst we find the suburb of Paddington, an old Victorian suburb. It is an elegant residential area, very quiet and trendy, with a bit of a European feel. There are no particular attractions, but it is a truly wonderful suburb, with wide boulevards, elegant buildings and green spaces.
This area is ideal for those travelling with their family and those seeking tranquillity. Here you will find all the amenities you will need: great accommodation, numerous shops and restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. The weekly Paddington Market, near Oxford Street, is also held on Saturdays.
Finally, if you want to enjoy the beaches too, the suburb is in a perfect location, halfway between the CBD and Bondi Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Sydney. In fact, with public transport you will reach the CBD or the beach in just 15 minutes!
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €50,00 for low-cost accommodation to €300,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Descriptions |
|---|---|
| Luxury Designer Paddington Cottage | 80sqm apartment with free WiFi, garden and air conditioning. Bathroom and equipped kitchen. Ideal for couples |
| Bert's Backpackers | Hostel with bistro, bar with outdoor seating, terrace, communal lounge. Private rooms or bed in dormitory. Ideal for young people |
| The Hughenden Boutique Hotel | 4-star hotel in a beautifully restored historic building. Restaurant, bar and close to many art galleries. Ideal for couples and families |
Surry Hills
Surry Hills is an ever-changing suburb, with a wonderful cultural scene, numerous cafes, fashion boutiques, colourful houses and international restaurants. It has a slightly bohemian and artistic soul. For example, the area that develops around the Surry Hills Library has become a real community space with a contemporary and eco-sustainable design, with wine bars and art galleries.
Given all of these features, Surry Hills is definitely a suburb suitable for young people and those looking for an artistic and alternative atmosphere.In addition, the area offers cheaper accommodation than the CBD, thanks to neat and clean small hotels and hostels.
Finally, it is in a great location: between Sydney Central Station, Paddington and Darlinghurst and within walking distance of the CBD and Hyde Park. To move around the city you can refer to the Central public transport stop.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €50,00 for low-cost accommodation to €300,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Shakespeare Hotel Sydney | 3-star hotel with bistro and bar. Rooms with shared bathrooms. Ideal for young people and couples |
| Big Hostel | Top floor hostel with garden, barbecue and sun terrace, luggage storage, shared kitchen. Private rooms or dorms. Ideal for young people |
| Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Surry Hills | Apartment residence 10 min walk from Central Station. Equipped with kitchen, living room, bathroom and one or two bedrooms. Ideal for couples or families |
| Crown Hotel Surry Hills | 4-star hotel on Crown Street. Modern rooms, WiFi , terrace and bar. Ideal for couples and families |
Haymarket (Chinatown)
Haymarket is the suburb where Sydney Central Station is located, south of the CBD. This area is also home to Sydney's Chinatown, an area full of life, with numerous restaurants and shops. Don't miss Paddy's Market, the suburb's market.
It is a suburb ideal for young people and those on a budget. Sydney is a city with a very high cost of living, but in this area it is possible to find many offers and accommodation at lower prices. It is also a lively area in the evening, given the presence of so many clubs.
Finally, it is ideal if you are only staying a few days, because it is connected to every corner of the city by Central Station, where bus, tram and train lines mean you can get to any suburb.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €50,00 for low-cost accommodation to €300,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Ibis Sydney World Square | 3-star hotel 5 minutes from Central Station. Air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and flat-screen TVs,gym, restaurant and bar. Ideal for couples |
| 28 Hotel Sydney | Hotel with on-site gym, 24-hour reception and daily maid service. Ideal for couples and families |
| Sydney Central YHA | Hostel near the station, with swimming pool and panoramic views from the top floor. Common rooms, shared kitchen, laundry. Private rooms or dorms. Ideal for young people |
| Great Southern Hotel Sydney | 4-star hotel with air-conditioned rooms, restaurant and bar, 24-hour reception, laundry and tour desk. Ideal for couples |
Bondi Beach
Finally, we want to present two further suburbs located on the coast, however, they should only be considered if you are spending at least a week in the city.
The first is Bondi Beach, which includes the famous beach, perhaps the most famous in Sydney. This area is a backpacker's paradise, for those who love the ocean and surf. It is also possible to reach Coogee on foot, along a wonderful coastal walk with breathtaking views of the rocks and the ocean. This suburb is definitely recommended for younger people, who can enjoy the beach and sport here!
Finally, if you decide to stay here, you have to take into account that the CBD is 30 minutes away by public transport. However, the direct bus from the beach to Hyde Park is very convenient.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €30,00 for low-cost accommodation to €350,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommpdation | Description |
|---|---|
| Hotel Bondi | 3-star hotel with free WiFi, bar ,restaurant and games room. Some rooms have balconies with sea views. Ideal for couples and groups of up to 5 people |
| Bondi Backpackers | Hostel 250 m from the beach. Dorm accommodation and free use of surfboards and snorkelling equipment. Tour desk and common room. Ideal for young people |
| Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach Sydney | Aparthotel 5 min walk from the beach. Swimming pool, hot tub, gym and rooms with balcony. Ideal for couples |
| QT Bondi | 5-star residence with studios and suites overlooking the sea, 300 m from the beach. Equipped with living room, kitchen, bathroom with bath and terrace. Ideal for couples and families |
Manly
The second oceanfront suburb we want to recommend is Manly, home to the famous and beautiful Manly Beach. It is one of the most popular suburbs for those looking for beaches, relaxation and shopping and, in high season, it is one of the busiest areas.
Unlike Bondi Beach, Manly is mainly recommended for families. Here there are great beaches, numerous parks, such as the wonderful Sydney Harbour National Park, and the area is quieter than Bondi.
The downside is the distance from the CBD: to reach Manly you will have to use the ferry. It is located 45 minutes away (by ferry) from Circular Quay, which is why it is almost always visited in the day from the CBD rather than chosen as a place to stay.
Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €30,00 for low-cost accommodation to €300,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking
Recommended Accommodation
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach | 3-star hotel overlooking Manly Beach. 2 swimming pools, swimming pool with Jacuzzi and rooms with private balcony. Ideal for couples and families |
| Quest Manly | Apartment residence near Manly Ferry Wharf. Apartments equipped with living room, kitchen, washing machine. For up to 4 people. Ideal for couples and families |
| Manly Bunkhouse | Hostel with large garden, shared lounge and kitchen, 10 minutes' walk from shops, pubs and restaurants and not far from the beach. Ideal for young people |
| Q Station Sydney | 4-star hotel nestled in Sydney Harbour National Park. Overlooking Sydney Bay, with a private beach. Restaurant, bar and free parking. Ideal for couples and families |
Places to stay near Sydney
Sydney is truly a very large city, with so many things to see and do. The attractions, cultural, historical and natural, are scattered throughout its territory. Therefore, the best solution is to stay in the city, preferably the central districts, which offer a wide choice of accommodation.
Staying outside the city is really not recommended due to the time that would be spent traveling, without taking into account the high costs of transport. If you have to buy a day ticket to get around the city and also the train tickets to move to / from Sydney, the costs start to increase considerably.