Sydney, Australia the city that appears like a vision on your thoughts. Those pristine beaches, epic waves, brunch in a bikini, and dazzling, swoopy architecture. You could spend weeks exploring the city, or months living here – as many foreigners and Australians do.

Considering how big and iconic it is, there’s no wonder why there’s so much to do in Sydney. Beach bums, surfers, and city-lovers all gather in this global sweetheart for the good life.

But big, flash cities don’t come without a price tag to match. Visiting Sydney can be expensive; I feel like they’ll start charging to even look at Sydney Opera House soon. Without proper guidance, you can end up blowing your budget on accommodation and food ALONE.

The best place to start planning is knowing where to stay in Sydney. There are endless things to do, but what really makes it unique are the beaches so close to the city: Manly Beach, Bondi Beach (with the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club), and Tamarama.

Whether you’re on a budget, organizing a vacation for the family, or wondering where to base yourself for the best nightlife, there’s an area of Sydney best for you to stay. Let’s talk Sydney’s best neighborhoods.

Okay, we’re doing it then…
Photo: @Lauramcblonde

Top 3 Recommendations For Where to Stay in Sydney, Australia

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our best recommendations for places to stay in Sydney, Australia.

If you’re a broke backpacker and worried about money, check out Sydney’s awesome hostels. They offer a comfy bed, a safe place to rest your head and an affordable price for the night.

Luxurious Harbour View | Best Airbnb in Sydney

This stunning 2 bedroom apartment gives guests a real treat. The location is amazing: you’ll be really close to the Opera House and Harbourside Shopping Centre. You’ll also get some of the most insane views in Sydney of Darling Harbour.

This apartment is great for families, hosting up to 5 guests. You’ll also get a shared outdoor pool, hot tub, and gym! Buses and trains are really convenient from here too.

Wake up! Sydney Central | Best Hostel in Sydney

Wake up! Central Sydney Hostel is one of the best backpacker accommodations and cheapest hostels in the city. With plenty of great amenities, such as a massive common room, workspaces for digital nomads, a fully equipped kitchen and an on-site cafe, you’ll be having the time of your life here. The location is, just as the name says, right by Sydney Central Station, meaning that you’ll get around without any problems. Loads of attractions are pretty much right in front of your doorstep as well.

Meriton Suites Sussex Street, Sydney | Best Hotel in Sydney

Centrally located, the Meriton Suites is a luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Surrounded by Sydney’s premier tourism, shopping, and entertainment district, this hotel is within walking distance of The Sydney Opera House, Hyde Park and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Enjoy this relaxing accommodation, spacious rooms and some of the best views of the city from the rooftop terrace. You’ll get access to the pool, hot tub, and even your own kitchen, plus a bunch of other awesome amenities.

Sydney Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Sydney

FIRST TIME IN SYDNEY
CBD, Sydney
FIRST TIME IN SYDNEY

CBD

Anyone visiting Sydney for the first time is going to want to base themselves in the Central Business District, or CBD. Home to high-rise buildings, high-end shopping, celebrity chefs, and major tourist attractions, the CBD is buzzing with excitement and energy.

ON A BUDGET
Kings Cross, Sydney
ON A BUDGET

Kings Cross

Sydney’s Kings Cross neighbourhood has undergone a serious change in the last few years. Home to the city’s infamous red light district, recent years have seen a number of trendy cafes and boutique pop-ups move into the neighbourhood.

NIGHTLIFE
Newtown, Sydney
NIGHTLIFE

Newtown

There’s no better place to enjoy Sydney’s nightlife scene than in Newtown. What was once one of the city’s grungiest neighbourhoods, Newtown today is home to Sydney’s trendiest clubs and bars.

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY
Bondi Beach, Sydney
COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Bondi Beach

Sport-enthusiast, surfer or simply just a curious tourist – Bondi Beach can offer everyone the perfect experience. The world-famous beach, located 8 km from Sydney’s central city, attracts people from all over the world, all year long.

FOR FAMILIES
Darling Harbour, Sydney
FOR FAMILIES

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is an energetic and vibrant district. Located within Sydney’s Central Business District, this small seaside neighbourhood is full of attractions and activities for kids and adults of all ages. From the Sydney Aquarium to Wildlife World, Darling Harbour is a fun destination for the whole family.

Sydney, Australia is one of the coolest, most liveable cities on the planet. Located on Australia’s east coast, Sydney is a modern and cosmopolitan city with a laid-back and relaxed attitude and so many awesome places to explore. Home to more than 5.1 million people, the city is overflowing with history, culture, fashion and cuisine.

Sydney is comprised of 38 government districts and covers an area of nearly 13,000 square kilometres. It’s where modern culture, lush nature, historical architecture and breathtaking beaches co-exist seamlessly.

To help you plan your trip to Sydney, we’ve highlighted the top 7 neighborhoods by interest giving you more reasons as to why Sydney is one of the best places to stay in Australia!

The Central Business District, or the CBD, is Sydney’s main tourist hub. Here you will find iconic attractions, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Circular Quay, Hyde Park and the city’s main shopping district.

Situated within the Sydney CBD is the Darling Harbour neighborhood. This area is teeming with activities and attractions for kids and adults of all ages and is my top pick for where to stay in Sydney with family.

East of the Sydney CBD you’ll find Kings Cross Railway Station. The city’s former red-light district, Kings Cross is where you’ll find the best deals on Sydney accommodation. It’s one of the best places to stay in Sydney on a budget! Enjoy great restaurants, hip bars, and reasonably priced accommodations, all within walking distance of the city centre.

South of Kings Cross is Surry Hills, Sydney’s coolest neighborhood. With a number of trendy bars and world-class restaurants, this neighborhood is the place to stay if you like the finer things in life.

Continuing south is Newtown. This small neighborhood is home to Sydney’s vibrant, energetic, and alternative nightlife scene. From the hottest clubs to the most popular bars, Newtown is at the heart of the action, and one of the best places to stay in Sydney for nightlife.

With great public transport options, wherever you stay you’ll always have great access to Sydney airport.

Still not sure where to stay in Sydney? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Sydney

Sydney is a city that offers so much to visitors. From amazing architecture to pristine beaches, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in the city. Depending on the nature of your visit, certain neighborhoods will be better suited to your specific interest.

Do you want to see Sydney’s top sights, like the Opera House, Circular Quay or The Sydney Harbour Bridge? Or, maybe you’d rather spend your time experiencing the city like a local?

Perhaps you’re keen to experience the city’s innovative and inventive food scene…

Or maybe you’re just backpacking through Sydney and want to see as much as possible? Or, you might just want to check out coastal spots like Manly Beach and the Coogee Walk.

No matter what you’re after, there’s a neighborhood in Sydney that’s ideal for you. Some offer heaps of luxury hotels whilst others are better for backpacker hostels or mid-range hotels and Airbnbs. There’s no end of choice!

Here are the best neighborhoods in Sydney, broken down by interest.

where to stay in Sydney

1. Sydney CBD Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Sydney for Your First Time

Anyone visiting Sydney for the first time is going to want to base themselves in the Central Business District, or CBD. Home to high-rise buildings, high-end shopping, celebrity chefs, and major tourist attractions, the Sydney CBD is buzzing with excitement and energy.

It’s a good spot for mid-range hotels, luxury hotels and backpacker hostels, but if you’re looking for boutique hotels you might have to look elsewhere. Stay here and explore places like The Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and Circular Quay all within walking distance. The CBD is also well connected for getting to and from Sydney Airport too.

Centrally located and well connected to other parts of the city, Sydney CBD is an excellent choice for anyone looking to see the big sights and explore the city on foot. It’s also the best area if you’re only visiting Sydney over the weekend.

Bustling during the day, this area of the city can be a bit quieter at night; however, that doesn’t mean it’s completely shut down. Head to the northern part of the neighborhood and explore Wynyard Station, where a number of small bars make the nightlife more interesting.

The storm WAS coming at this point.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde

Harbour Bridge View | Best Airbnb in the CBD

Perfect for 2 guests, but with room for 4, this unreal apartment in Sydney is a show-stopper. The rooms are minimalistic and bright, but the amenities are awesome. Enjoy a dip in a rooftop pool to cool off or sweat it out in the gym. 

With one of the most glamorous views in the city, overlooking Sydney Opera House and THE bridge. Close by to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Circular Quay too, it’s the best location in Sydney Central Business District (CBD).

Wake up! Sydney Central | Best Hostel in Sydney CBD

Wake up! Central Sydney Hostel is one of the best backpacker accommodations and cheapest hostels in the city. With plenty of great amenities, such as a massive common room, workspaces for digital nomads, a fully equipped kitchen and an on-site cafe, you’ll be having the time of your life here. The location is, just as the name says, right by Central Station, meaning that you’ll get around without any problems. Loads of attractions are pretty much right in front of your doorstep as well.

Meriton Suites Sussex Street, Sydney | Best Hotel in the CBD

Centrally located, the Meriton Suites is a luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Surrounded by Sydney’s premier tourism, shopping, and entertainment district, this hotel is within walking distance of The Sydney Opera House, Hyde Park and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Enjoy this relaxing accommodation, spacious rooms and some of the best views of the city from the rooftop terrace. You’ll get access to the pool, hot tub, and even your own kitchen, plus a bunch of other awesome amenities.

Top Things to Do in Sydney’s CBD

  1. See the Sydney Opera House, dur! It’s one of the most iconic buildings in the world.
  2. Wander through the impressive (and free!) Royal Botanic Garden and its outstanding collection of plants from Australia and around the world.
  3. Walk across the iconic Sydney Harbour or take a tour to walk over the top of the bridge… Yeah, that’s right!
  4. Enjoy one of Australia’s foremost cultural institutions, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, home to an impressive collection of Australian art.
  5. Climb Sydney Tower and take in spectacular panoramic views from the 250-meter high viewing level.
  6. Browse the outstanding collections at the Australian Museum, showcasing historical exhibitions of natural science and indigenous cultures.
  7. Go shopping at Queen Victoria Building, a 19th-century marketplace with five floors of designer shops and boutiques to explore.
  8. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases great works of modern and contemporary art across various media.
  9. Relax in Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a green space that offers magnificent views of the Sydney Harbour.
Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey View on REI

2. Kings Cross Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Sydney on a Budget

Sydney’s Kings Cross neighborhood has undergone a serious change in the last few years. This area of a little debauchery in recent years has seen a number of trendy cafes and boutique pop-ups move into the neighborhood.

Although it still retains much of its original grit and attitude, Kings Cross is one of the city’s up-and-coming districts.

Kings Cross is also the best place to stay in Sydney for travellers on a budget. Here you’ll find a number of budget hostels and hotels as well as a few mid-range hotels.

Here you’re within walking distance of great public transport options, so in just a few minutes you can be walking around the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It also makes getting to and from Sydney Airport super easy.

Kings Cross, Sydney
Photo: Angus Fraser (flickr)

Walk from Woolloomooloo | Best Airbnb in Kings Cross

Whenever I’ve stayed somewhere on a tight budget, the best experiences come from staying with the host. You always get the best recommendations, and the place has the best homey feeling. 

With the super location right next to King’s Cross station, this is one of the best Airbnbs in Australia for when you arrive! You’ll have your own room, up to 2 beds for 2 guests, and that life-saving air con.

Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross | Best Hostel in Kings Cross

The life and soul of Sydney’s hostel scene, Mad Monkey Kings Cross knows how to make life fun. The best party hostel in Sydney, the youthful members of staff go out of their way to show you the best nightspots of pumping Kings Cross.

There are terrific events all throughout the week, including free dinners, bar hops, and tours. Wake up to a free hot breakfast (pancakes included), explore Sydney, chill in the lounge, whip up a storm in the kitchen, hang with other cool nomads, experience the nightlife, and fall asleep in comfy beds in spacious dorms.

No 9 Springfield | Best Hotel in Kings Cross

No 9 Springfield is the cutest boutique hotel in the centre of Kings Cross. Just a short walk from the neighborhood’s most famous clubs, bars, and cafes, this hotel is ideal for travellers looking to enjoy Sydney without breaking the bank. Just 200 meters from the railway station, this hotel is well situated to explore all parts of the city.

Top Things to Do in Kings Cross

  1. Share a plate of tapas with friends old and new at Aperitif, one of the few restaurants in the city open until 2 AM.
  2. Grab a drink with a show at El Rocco/Bar Me, a friendly bar housed in the former home of Sydney’s oldest jazz cellar.
  3. Go and see the delights of the Blue Mountains. This is not something to miss.
  4. Relax in nearby Fitzroy Garden, taking a peek at the dandelion-designed El Alamein Fountain on the way in.
  5. Dance the week out at The Tender Trap’s much-loved Sunday night club.
  6. Located at the intersection of Darlinghurst Road and Victoria Street is the impressively designed Fire Station, dating back to 1920.
  7. Browse the stalls at the popular Saturday morning market.
  8. Enjoy a night in one of Kings Cross’ many pubs.
  9. Take a walking tour of Kings Cross exploring the many crimes and passions of this small Sydney neighborhood.

3. Newtown Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Sydney for Nightlife

There’s no better place to enjoy Sydney’s nightlife scene than in Newtown. What was once one of the city’s grungiest neighborhoods, Newtown today is home to Sydney’s trendiest clubs and bars.

From rooftop terraces to underground clubs, if you’re interested in exploring Sydney’s alternative scene, look no further than Newtown: our pick for where to stay in Sydney for the best nightlife.

But Newtown isn’t just about clubs and pubs. This neighborhood is also where you can find some of Sydney’s most innovative and inventive restaurants. From Australian to Scandinavian, enjoy world-class cuisine from all corners of the globe in this trendy and vibrant district.

Newtown, Sydney
Photo: Eva Rinaldi (flickr)

Lucky’s Newtown | Best Airbnb in Newtown

This Airbnb became one of my dream houses before I even knew what I wanted. Lucky’s Newtown is the best place to relax with friends or your partner with great access to the best nightlife in Sydney. 

Hosting up to 4 guests, enjoy the colourful and bright decoration, your own private outdoor patio/makeshift jungle, and listen to the birds in the morning. Enjoy a cold one on the balcony before you hit the town.

Cambridge Lodge Budget Hostel | Best Hostel in Newtown

Make this hostel your home away from home while you enjoy Sydney’s thriving party scene. Close to trendy bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants, this hostel is well situated to explore Newtown, Sydney and beyond. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere and clean accommodations at this hostel in Newtown.

The Urban Newtown | Best Hotel in Newtown

Industrial and rustic, The Urban Newtown is the best hotel in this neighborhood. Located less than a five-minute walk from Newtown’s major attractions, this hotel is perfectly situated for couples looking to explore the city. Enjoy in-room espresso machines and modern amenities at this four-star hotel.

Top Things to Do in Newtown

  1. Discover a new band or see a show at the iconic Enmore Theatre.
  2. Enjoy a drink at Bank Hotel, an establishment known for interesting and intriguing drinks (and deals!).
  3. Eat some of the best food in Sydney at Thai Pothong.
  4. Get your day-drink on at famous brewery Young Henry’s.
  5. Take a break in Camperdown Memorial Park, a large urban green space decorated with street art and graffiti.
  6. Get in a round of 18 in the middle of the city at Holey Moley, a fun and exciting mini golf bar.
  7. Marvel at the architecture along King Street, the most well-preserved Victorian high street in Sydney.
  8. Check out Sydney’s indie band scene at Platform 8, located within the iconic Town Hall Hotel.
  9. Take in a show at New Theatre, one of the oldest continuously producing theatre companies in Australia.
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A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.

Grab an eSIM!

4. Bondi Beach – Coolest Place to Stay in Sydney

Sport-enthusiast, surfer or simply just a curious tourist – the world-famous Bondi Beach can offer everyone the perfect experience. The world-famous beach, located 8 km from Sydney’s central city, attracts people from all over the world, all year long.

Surfers especially enjoy the curling and steady waves, which are suitable for every level. Beginners can check out the numerous, accredited surf schools to improve their skills. Even if you just go for a swim, you’ll fall in love with the white sand and clear water.

Along the 2 km coastal walk, you can find amazing restaurants, art exhibitions, cafes and much more. Bondi beach is a place to check out at any time of the year – but be aware, it’s definitely not the cheapest area to live in! In fact, if you’re looking for a luxury hotel with features like a swimming pool, then this is a great spot to look, and you be just a few minutes from the beach too!

If you do want somewhere affordable and you’re not bothered about staying a bit further away from the center, you can find some affordable beach houses in Australia.

Like Bondi but want somewhere a bit quieter? Check out Manly Beach instead.

Oh my Bondi
Photo: @Lauramcblonde

Studio on Campbell | Best Airbnb in Bondi Beach

This amazing studio has one of the BEST beachside locations in Bondi. For a start, you can see it from your bedroom! 

You’ll have everything you could need for a comfortable stay: kitchen, washing machine, big, comfy bed, plus you’ll have some of the best views in Sydney. It’s definitely a dream home far away from home.

Wake Up! Bondi Beach | Best Hostel in Bondi Beach

Wake Up! Bondi Beach offers everything from an amazing location (literally moments away from the beach) to a great community, rooftop terrace, and comfy living space. It’s everything you expect Australia’s hostels to be.

Prepare your own meals in the kitchen, meet other fellow travellers, or simply enjoy the silence of your private or shared room. It’s a great spot for budget accommodation within walking distance of the beach.

Luxury Beach Hotel | Best Hotel in Bondi Beach

The Bondi Hotel is definitely the right place for a luxury holiday. Very close to the beach and all of Bondi’s hot spots, you’ll be overwhelmed with the amazing attractions that the area has to offer. Enjoy a high-standard, luxury room, with great amenities like a flat-screen TV and reliable room service. Have a nice dinner and a drink at the on-site restaurant after a long beach day.

Top Things to Do in Bondi Beach

  1. Spice up your skills in private or group sessions with one of the professional surf schools. (Let’s go surfing is a solid.)
  2. Take a stroll along the coastal walk. (There are lots of great cafes and shops to check out!)
  3. Eat fish and chips while watching surfers catch waves.
  4. Get your tan game on while relaxing on the white sand.
  5. Spot humpback whales from the coast between May and November.
  6. Go for a swim (potentially followed by a cocktail) at the world-famous Bondi Iceberg Club.
  7. Check out the Bondi Markets on Saturday and Sunday for some pretty flowers, second-hand shopping, and great food.
  8. Have an art day at the art exhibitions along the beach, such as Cooee Art Gallery and Bondi Beach Graffiti Wall.

5. Darling Harbour Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Sydney for Families

Darling Harbour is an energetic and vibrant district. Located within Sydney’s Central Business District, this small seaside neighborhood is full of attractions and activities for kids and adults of all ages. From the Sydney Aquarium to Wildlife World, Darling Harbour is a fun destination for the whole family.

A designated walking district, Darling Harbour is well situated within Sydney’s downtown core. Close to the city’s major attractions and public transit routes, Darling Harbour is a great base for families looking to explore Sydney.

Darling Harbour, Sydney

Luxurious Harbour View | Best Airbnb in Darling Harbour

This stunning 2 bedroom apartment gives guests a real treat. The location is amazing: you’ll be really close to the Opera House and Harbourside Shopping Centre. You’ll also get some of the most insane views in Sydney of Darling Harbour.

This apartment is great for families, hosting up to 5 guests. You’ll also get a shared outdoor pool, hot tub, and gym! Buses and trains are really convenient from here too.

Nomads Sydney | Best Hostel in Darling Harbour

Nomads Sydney is the best hostel in Darling Harbour. At the edge of the neighborhood, this hostel is a short walk to the harbour as well as Sydney’s major tourist attractions. Located above a historic public bar and restaurants, this hostel is perfectly situated for enjoying the best of Sydney and Darling Harbour.

Sydney Hotel CBD | Best Hotel in Darling Harbour

Centrally located and oozing with charm, you won’t find a better hotel close to Darling Harbour than Sydney Hotel CBD. A short walk to the city’s most famous attractions, this classic hotel offers guests comfortable beds, air-conditioned rooms, and a myriad of amenities. Enjoy a relaxing stay in the heart of the city at this downtown Sydney hotel.

Top Things to Do in Darling Harbour

  1. The Hop-on Hop-off Tour is surprisingly good. You get around so easily.
  2. Walk across Pyrmont Bridge, an old swing bridge in the heart of the city.
  3. Hop aboard a Harbour Bridge Cruise and see the Sydney Harbour from a different angle.
  4. Explore Australia’s maritime history at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
  5. Rest and relax, or run around at Tumbalong Park, a large green space in the centre of Sydney.
  6. Cool off by running in the swirling fountains outside the Sydney convention centre.
  7. See the amazing Darling Harbour Fireworks, an incredible 15-minute show that takes place each Saturday night at 8:30 PM.
  8. Visit the Chinese Garden of Friendship, a traditional private garden from the Ming Dynasty that offers insight into Chinese heritage and culture.
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Active Roots Security Belt

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Hide Yo’ Money!

FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Sydney

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Sydney and where to stay.

What To Pack For Sydney

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Sydney

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Sydney, Australia

I was warned, but I definitely didn’t comprehend, how expensive visiting Sydney can be. The perfect area to stay for your interests can come at a price – if you’re not careful. But don’t let that deter you: you just need to know where to stay in Sydney.

Hostels are a Godsend when you’re backpacking Australia. I really recommend Wake up! Sydney Central if it’s your first time visiting too. It’s definitely the best hostel in Sydney if you’re keen to get chatting and making friends. 

If you’re looking for a little more peace, Meriton Suites Sussex Street is a great hotel near the Central Business District and Darling Harbour, as well as other major tourist attractions. It’s my top pick for Sydney’s best hotel.

To help you decide where to stay in Sydney, think about what awesome things to do that excite you! Being in close proximity to some of the world’s best beaches, like Manly Beach and Bondi, is something special. But you don’t have to like the beach to like Sydney…

Did we miss anything? Maybe you have a favourite place in Sydney to stay? Let us know in the comments! 

Looking for more info on travelling to Sydney and Australia?
Time to get on the road!
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!