Where to Stay in Sydney
A Guide for Visitors
There’s no shortage of great places to stay when visiting Sydney. But with so much on offer it can be a little overwhelming to work out exactly where will be best for you during your visit. To help you decide we’ll look at the important things to consider when choosing where to base yourself as well as the features of Sydney’s most popular neighbourhoods. With a little planning we’ll make it easy to work out where to stay in Sydney.
Location
When making your decision on where to stay think about the things you plan to do during your trip. Try and choose a location that’s well positioned for your choice of activities. First-time visitors often want to tick off the major sights like the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour and the Harbour Bridge so staying in the CBD can make sightseeing more convenient. If you’re planning to spend all your time at Sydney’s famous beaches then heading further out to Bondi or Manly could be a better choice. For easy access to the major attractions without the hustle and bustle of the CBD nearby Potts Point offers an upscale experience while Surry Hills is the trendy spot for cafes and vibrant nightlife.
Transport
Most visitors to Sydney don’t bother with hiring a car (especially when many are used to driving on the other side of the road at home) so access to transport is an important consideration when choosing where to locate yourself. Thankfully Sydney has a well-connected public transport system with trains, buses and ferries to get you where you want to go. If you’re planning to travel between neighbourhoods a lot during your stay consider options close to train stations as they offer easy connections across Sydney.
The Sydney Ferries are also a great and scenic way to get around so securing a spot near a ferry terminal can also be handy. You will find that many areas within and close to the CBD are very walkable and you can explore nearby attractions, shops and restaurants on foot. If you do decide to rent a car to explore further afield like the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley, remember to check what the parking options are at your accommodation as it can be limited and expensive in some areas.
Budget
For most of us budget will be one of, if not the main, deciding factor on where you stay during your visit to Sydney. For those on a tight budget, Bondi, Glebe and Newtown offer a range of hostel options for backpackers and the budget-conscious alike. Mid-range hotels offering a comfortable stay within easy reach of top attractions can be found the CBD, Darling Harbour and Surry Hills. And for those with more upscale tastes, Circular Quay, The Rocks and Double Bay offer some luxury choices with stunning harbour views.
Amenities
No matter your budget we all want to get the most for our money so consider the amenities on offer when deciding where to stay in Sydney. Hotels, hostels and holiday rentals come with a range of extra amenities that can add to your experience and in some cases save you money in the long run. If you like to stay connected or plan to work during your trip make sure the wi-fi facilities are up to standard and check for additional charges.
Having breakfast included in your stay can be convenient and cost-saving but if that’s not an option check out the cafe and restaurant options nearby. If you’re staying a little longer or like to save cash by cooking some of your own meals and snacks, a property with kitchen facilities (shared or private) may be a deciding factor. Similarly, self-service laundry facilities can be useful and allow you to pack lighter.
Sydney Neighbourhoods
Central Business District (CBD)
Many visitors head straight for the CBD, and for good reason, as it’s a great location for first-timers looking to be close to major attractions. Staying in the CBD will put you within walking distance to most major attractions like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, but the easy-to-access transport links make it easy to explore other areas of the city too. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from in the CBD but it does tend to quieten down in the evenings so may not be the preferred option for those looking for nightlife. Keep in mind this area can get very crowded during the peak tourist season and as expected prices can rise during these times.
The Rocks
Nestled between Circular Quay and the base of the Harbour Bridge, the historic Rocks area is home to boutique hotels, historic buildings and cobbled streets. This charming area offers visitors something a little different not far from the CBD. The area boasts easy access to the city’s iconic landmarks and stunning views of Sydney Harbour along with markets, galleries, museums and artisan shops. Accommodations in this unique area lean towards the upmarket but for those with the budget, it offers an exclusive and luxurious stay.
Darling Harbour
Located along the waterfront, west of the CBD, Darling Harbour is a good option for families. With a focus on entertainment, the area is home to attractions such as the Sea Life Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Wildlife Sydney Zoo and the IMAX Theatre. The area offers plenty of waterfront restaurants, bars and cafes with scenic views, although the great location can often be reflected in the price. Given the number of popular attractions in the area it can feel a little crowded and touristy at times but the central location, transport links and proximity to the CBD still make it a popular choice.
Surry Hills
South of the CBD, away from the waterfront lies the trendy and vibrant area of Surry Hills. Known for its hipster cafes, boutique shopping, and multicultural feel it’s a great spot for foodies and those looking for some nightlife. With easy access to nearby Central Station, you’re never far from anywhere if you choose to base yourself in Surry Hills. The range of bars, pubs and live music venues offer endless entertainment options but the lively atmosphere can get loud, especially on weekends. You won’t find many large hotel chains in Surry Hills, it’s the perfect location if you prefer more boutique accommodation or an apartment rental. Parking in the area is limited but with the CBD only a short bus or train ride away you won’t be needing a car.
Bondi Beach
The world-famous Bondi Beach lies approximately 7km (4 miles) east of the CBD and offers visitors a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of outdoor spaces and activities to enjoy. Often thought of only as a backpacker destination Bondi also offers some luxury options if you’re looking for a more high-end experience. With stunning views out over the Pacific Ocean, Bondi is an ideal base if you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore the coastal walkways. There are plenty of cafes, relaxed dining options and casual nightlife spots to enjoy but the area can get very crowded during the peak summer holiday season. If you do want to explore further afield when staying in Bondi, make sure to plan accordingly as the bus ride into the CBD can take 20-30 minutes.
Manly Beach
A quieter alternative to Bondi, Manly offers another stunning coastline with a more relaxed feel. Situated across the bridge on the north side of Sydney Harbour, it’s a scenic 30-minute ferry ride back to Circular Quay and the CBD. Manly offers fewer luxury accommodation options than Bondi or the CBD but is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With stunning views of the harbour the iconic Manly ferry ride is an attraction all on its own but keep in mind the travel times if your itinerary includes a lot of activities centred around the CBD. Manly is a good choice for those wanting to enjoy coastal walks, beachfront dining, casual nightlife options and the outdoor lifestyle.
Glebe
The leafy, laid-back suburb of Glebe lies west of the city between Blackwattle Bay and the University of Sydney. It offers a more affordable option with a range of budget and mid-range choices available, while still being only 10 minutes from the CBD by bus. Glebe is known for its village-like feel with tree-lined streets and a large collection of historic Victorian cottages and terraces. It’s also home to many markets, including the popular Glebe Market as well as a great café culture. With limited nightlife options it is quieter in the evenings than Surry Hills or Newtown, making it more suitable if you’re looking for a quieter, local experience rather than a tourist hot-spot.
Choosing where to stay in Sydney can make all the difference to the success of your trip. Remember to consider your itinerary and where you’ll be spending most of your time before selecting the best location for your accommodation. Each area offers something unique so you can’t go too far wrong. Whether you’re looking for an urban escape, a relaxed beach holiday or a local experience, just keep your budget and preferences in mind and you’re sure to make a great choice.
Do you prefer to stay in the city, the suburbs or in nature when you travel? Let me know in the comments below.
This post is not sponsored. As always all views and opinions expressed are my own.
