The best areas to stay in Sydney for first timer are Sydney CBD, Darling Harbour, The Rocks & Circular Quay, Surry Hills & Newtown, Kings Cross, Paddington, Chinatown, Darlinghurst & Potts Point, Bondi Beach, and Manly. These are popular and safe neighborhoods for tourists that offer a wide variety of attractions and amenities.
In this blog post, I will help you to decide where to stay in Sydney for the first time, without a car, for families, couples, and for one night.
Sydney CBD is the best place to stay in Sydney without a car, along with Darling Harbour because CBD is the transport hub of the city. You can easily traveler to all parts of the city by trains, buses, metro, ferries, light rail, taxi, and Uber. CBD is also walkable, you can easily explore everything on foot.
Sydney’s Central Business District is the best area to stay in Sydney for first-timers due to its close proximity to Sydney’s top tourist attractions such as Sydney Opera House, and as well as many choices in accommodations. If you book a hotel here, you will be located in the middle of everything, within walking distance to many sights, restaurants, bars, and shops.
To book hotel, I recommend spending at least 5 days in Sydney to explore the city. Five days to enough to get the sense of the city, to enjoy food and drink, and to see the most famous attractions such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. If you have more days, you can see Sydney in a slower pace, and take a day trip to The Blue Mountains.
| đź’– Best Area for first time: | Sydney CBD/Central Business District |
| đź’Ž Best luxury hotel: | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Mercure Sydney |
| đź’° Best budget hotel: | The Pod Sydney |
10 Best areas to stay in Sydney for tourist
1. Sydney CBD, where to stay in Sydney for first-timers
Sydney’s Central Business District is the best place to stay in Sydney for first-time travelers because it is the most central area of Sydney and it offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budget travelers. In addition to being the business and finance centre of the city, the CBD is also a hub of nightlife, shopping, and great tourist attractions, attracting thousands of workers and shoppers visit every day.
George Street is the center of the CBD, packed with practical business chic, government offices, classy historic grandeur, as well as restaurants, bars, and shops. In amongst the glass and steel skyscrapers you can also find many lovely old colonial buildings that will appeal to anyone who appreciates their historic charm.
The grand Town Hall is one such historic building. With columned entrances, stained glass windows, and soaring towers, the Town Hall oozes opulence. It is often possible to tour the inside of the building, but this depends on what is going on at the hall so make sure to book in advance.
The Queen Victoria Building offers both historic style and a wonderful shopping experience. The gorgeous Romanesque building includes mosaiced floors and numerous stores and stalls. You can browse to your heart’s content enjoying both the eclectic wares and the beautiful surroundings.
If you love spending your vacation shopping, then there are plenty more opportunities to do so in Sydney CBD. Just a few minutes away is the Pitt Street Mall. This pedestrian shopping street is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It boasts a mix of both chain stores and boutiques.
Another great option is the Galeries Shopping Centre. Here you will find multiple floors of fashionable boutiques with an artsy flare. There are plenty of lovely cafes to stop at when you need a rest, too.
There are numerous cultural attractions in the CBD. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of Australia’s leading art museums, attracting million visitors each year. The Hyde Park Barracks Museum is a World Heritage Listed site in Sydney, a noble brick building, designed by the convict architect Francis Greenway to house prisoners arriving in the colony. There are also performance at Metro Theatre and The City Recital Hall.
If you get tired of the crush of high-rises and crowds, you can escape to Hyde Park. Australia’s oldest public park is more than just a breath of fresh air. It is also home to the Anzac Memorial, Archibald Fountain, as well as many other monuments and fountains to enjoy as you relax on the manicured lawns.
If you want a really stunning view of the city, the Sydney Tower Eye is the place to go. Located right next to Hyde Park, the viewing platform at the top of the tower offers fantastic panoramic views across both the park and the city centre.
In the west of the Central Business District, overlooking darling Harbour, you can find WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. There are plenty of animals to see, activities to get involved with, and shows to wonder at.
The Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is just next door, so you can get your fill of animals both land and marine in one easy trip. Both the zoo and the aquarium highlight Australia’s unique wildlife, so it is a fascinating day out for the whole family.
Whilst much of this district is inland, the western area runs along the water, so you can still enjoy waterfront views and hospitality whilst staying right in the city centre. There are plenty of bars and restaurants that take advantage of the scenic location,
King Street Wharf is a bustling development of shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes that line the banks. After a long day sightseeing, you will have plenty of choices to relax with dinner by the river.
Being so centrally located, Sydney CBD is the best area to stay in Sydney without a car. It is the transport hub of the city, you can easily explore attractions by foot and public transport. If you manage to see everything there is in CBD, you will be within walking distance of all the incredible attractions in the surrounding districts. Darling Harbour, China Town, and the Rocks and Circular Quay areas all border the CBD.
Sydney CBD offers a wide range of accommodation ranging from budget backpacker hostels, to luxury 5-star hotels. You can easily find big brand hotels and apartments. There are also lots of options for budget travelers.
Stay In Sydney CBD If you are first-time travelers; you want to stay right in the city center; you want lots of sightseeing, within walking distance to the major sites; you want great nightlife; you want great public transportation; you travel without a car;
Best places to Stay in Sydney CBD:
luxury ($$$): The Fullerton Hotel Sydney This is a 5-star luxury hotel, located in the heart of CBD. You can enjoy lunch and dinner at the on-site The Place, Ă la carte restaurant, and try signature Afternoon Tea at The Bar. The Martin Place Railway Station and Wynyard Railway station is just 5 minute away for traveling around. There is parking if you travel with a car.
mid-range ($$): Mercure Sydney This 4-star hotel is located only a very short walk from Central Station. There are heated rooftop swimming pool, a sauna, a fitness centre, and a car parking. Platform 818 Restaurant and Bar, and Eve’s Bar will serve a wide range of Australian cuisine and wines.
budget ($$): The Pod Sydney This hostel offers capsule bedding with personal lockers, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. It is within easy walking distance to the famous Capitol Theatre and Darling Harbour.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN SYDNEY CBDSee more: 25 Best things to do in Sydney, Australia
2. The Rocks and Circular Quay, best area for sightseeing
The Rocks is Sydney’s oldest historical area. It was the site of Australia’s first European settlement when the British sailor, Captain Arthur Phillip, landed with the First Fleet in 1788 and established a colony for British prisoners on the site.
The Rocks and Circular Quay area in North Sydney is a great location for making sure you get to see all the main attractions. Located right on Sydney Harbour, you will be perfectly positioned to enjoy Sydney’s most iconic views.
You can explore the area by joining 1.5hrs tour, The Rocks Walking Tours, to learn more about the history of colonial Sydney as you explore The Rocks. You will visit the Cadman’s Cottage, Campbell’s Cove, and Susannah Place, as well as the shady courtyards, pubs, historical buildings, and narrow laneways.
There are numerous museums to learn about its history such as The Rocks Discovery Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Argyle Gallery, which displays a collection of Australian and Aboriginal art and fine crafts.
Sydney Opera House is the most prominent attraction in this area. Probably the most well known and most photographed location in all of Australia, no visit to Sydney is complete without a glimpse of the opera house. If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to attend a performance or show at the Sydney Opera House you should definitely take it. You will certainly be the envy of all your friends.
Of course, if you just want to view the iconic building, it is best viewed from across the harbour. You can enjoy some spectacular views from Pylon Lookout on Dawes Point, then visit the historic Dawes Point Battery right beside the lookout. The 18th-century fort still features cannons and original floors.
If you do want to get up close to the Sydney Opera House, you will have to walk right by the Royal Botanic Gardens. The huge Botanical gardens boast tons of activities and attractions for all ages. From numerous themed gardens and educational centres to a pool and open-air cinema, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained.
For such a central district, staying in the Rocks and Circular Quay area will have you surrounded by open spaces and opportunities to enjoy nature. In addition to the sprawling Botanical Gardens, you can also enjoy the lovely Observatory Hill Park.
Aside from being a lovely little public park to relax in, Observatory Hill Park also offers wonderful views of the surrounding city. You can look out across Sydney Harbour and the sweeping arches of Sydney Harbour Bridge. It makes the perfect location for a picnic.
Meanwhile, nearby Barangaroo Reserve offers trails through a lovely waterside nature park. If you want a relaxing afternoon, head to Barangaroo Reserve and enjoy a walk or a picnic with lovely views over the bay.
If you want to head out onto the water rather than just looking at it, then head to Circular Quay Ferry Terminal. From here you can take a pleasant ferry ride to numerous destinations around Sydney Harbour and along Parramatta River.
Just across Sydney Harbour Bridge are the lovely districts of North Sydney and Milsons Point. If you want to stay close enough to see the opera house from your hotel, but also a little further from the inner-city crowds, this area just across the river would be a fantastic location.
Between the river views, the lovely parks, and the iconic and historic attractions, this area is ideal if you are planning a romantic getaway. You will have plenty of opportunities for romantic dates. A honeymoon would even give you an excuse to splurge on a room with views of the opera house.
You can grab a drink and enjoy the views in of its pubs. The Lord Nelson is a historic old pub that brew their own beer here. There are also many other pubs that dating back to Sydney’s colonial days including the Hero of Waterloo, Fortune of War, the Observer, and the Orient. The Rocks also offers lively nightlife with lots of live music, rooftop bars, and restaurants.
There are hundred of locally-produced, hand-crafted stalls in Rocks Market every weekend, and the Rocks Foodies Market on every Firday between 9am – 3pm.
With such magnificent and iconic views, it is no surprise that hotels here are amongst the most expensive in the city. If you are planning a luxury, money-no-object trip, then you have some fantastic options to choose from here. You could even score a room with views of the Sydney Opera House.
Stay In The Rocks and Circular Quay If want to stay close to the major attractions; you are first-time travelers; you travel without a car; you want a central area with lots of open space, and you are planning a romantic city break or honeymoon.
Best Places to Stay in Sydney in The Rocks and Circular Quay:
luxury ($$$): Park Hyatt Sydney Located between iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, this is a modern luxury hotel that is only 25 minutes’ drive by car from Sydney International Airport. It has a heated pool, a spa, and a wellness centre. Rooms are spacious, with luxury furnishing, fittings, plush carpets.
luxury ($$): Sir Stamford Circular Quay This beautiful hotel has a sundeck that overlooks Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay. You can enjoy Modern Australian cuisine and enjoy the view of the Royal Botanic Gardens at the Dining Room.
budget($): Sydney Harbour YHA this hostel has a beautiful rooftop views of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour. You will be located within walking distance to heritage buildings, boutique shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN ROCK & CIRCULAR QUAY3. Darling Harbour, where to stay in Sydney without a car
Darling Habour along with the CBD is the best area to stay in Syney without a car due to its prime location and well-connected public transportation. Booking hotel in this area, you will be located in the heart of action, within walking distance to the most famous attractions, as well as many choice of lodging, shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Darling harbour is just west of the Central Business District, wrapping around Tumbalong Bay. Darling Harbour is particularly popular with families, with so many family dining spots and family friendly attractions within easy walking distance.
Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo are both just a few minutes away along the water. Sydney’s Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is just a little further along too. You can enjoy all the top Sydney attractions whilst also keeping close to lovely waterfront views.
Meanwhile, Tumbalong Park offers a well equipped play area alongside its manicured Chinese garden. It’s a great place for kids to spend some time outdoors and run off some energy. You can also explore one of the tall ships at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
If you love a spot of shopping you will want to head to the Harbourside Shopping Centre. The multilevel complex of fashionable boutiques and trendy stores overlooks the water for a scenic shopping experience.The Harbourside Shopping Centre is also popular with diners. The mall is full of upscale restaurants with waterside dining terraces for a lovely al fresco experience.
There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, pubs, bistros, stylish cocktail bars along the waterfront. The Darling Harbour neighborhood offers great nightlife scene.
On Saturday evenings, you should head to the waterfront to witness the weekly firework show. Cockle Bay Wharf is a particularly popular location to view the fireworks from. It can get pretty crowded though, so you might need to get there early if you want to score a good spot.
Being close to the city centre, and quite a popular location in its own right, Darling Harbour has its share of pricier accommodation. However, whilst many of the hotels here demand higher prices, there are still also plenty of mid-range and affordable hotel options too.
If you are keeping to a budget, you may have to shop around a bit. However, you will have more to choose from than in the central business district or Circular Quays area.
Stay In Darling Harbour If you are family and want to be surrounded by family friendly attractions; you are first-time visitors; you want to stay close to the city centre, you love fireworks and want to witness the weekly fireworks show over cockle bay; you travel without a car;
Best places to stay in Sydney in Darling Harbour:
- luxury ($$$): The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney
- mid-range ($$): ibis Sydney Darling Harbour
- budget ($): MetroResidences Darling Harbour
4. Surry Hills and Newtown, lots of trendy cafés & restaurants
Located just 1km from CBD, Surry Hills is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. Popular with Sydney’s younger crowd, Surry Hills is a large suburb full of hip eateries and fashionable shopping. Less of a tourist trap, this is a great place to escape the crowds whilst keeping close to the attractions of the city centre. Accommodations here are cheaper the CBD.
There is a distinctly hipster vibe to Surry Hills. The area boasts an abundance of fancy cafes offering the best of Sydney’s coffee scene. Australia is known for valuing great coffee, so you know any area of Sydney that makes coffee a highlight is going to be serving the good stuff.
In addition to the coffeeshops, there are also numerous quirky boutiques and art galleries to browse around. When you need a break, Surry Hills has a great collection of chic restaurants and fashionable cafes to choose from.
Despite the hipster vibe, there is an authenticity to Surry Hills that keeps it from feeling too pretentious. There’s a genuine creativity to the community here that seeps into the general atmosphere.
One particularly notable perk to staying in Surry Hills is its proximity to Sydney’s largest train station. Sydney Central Station offers links throughout the city as well as out to districts outside of Sydney. If you are travelling to Sydney by train, it is likely you will be coming into central station.
Staying close by to Central Station will help to minimise time spent travelling between your hotel and the train station. Both when coming in and out of Sydney, as well as when travelling around the city during your stay.
Alternatively, if you are flying into Sydney and want to stay closer to the airport, you might want to consider Newtown. Newtown is a bit further out from the city centre, but it has a similar hipster vibe to Surry Hills. Rather than coffeeshops and boutiques, Newtown is a hub of thrift stores and secondhand bookshops. If you love vintage, this is where to find it.
Newtown also has one of the most diverse culinary offerings in the city. If you are craving a particular cuisine, there is a good chance you will be able to find a great restaurant serving it in Newtown.
Stay In Surry Hills and Newtown If you want to stay in an area with a trendy but laid back vibe, you love vintage stuff and hunting for second hand bargains, you want to keep close to the city centre but away from the crowds of tourists, you want to stay close to transport links.
Best Places to Stay in Surry Hills:
- luxury ($$$): Little Albion
- mid-range ($$): Crown Hotel Surry Hills
- budget ($): Big Hostel
5. Kings Cross, where to stay in Sydney for nightlife
The former red light district, Kings Cross is one of the most popular suburb in Inner East. It is only around a 20-minute walk from the Central Business District, so you won’t be too far from the popular tourist attractions of the city centre.
Kings Cross offers great nightlife with plenty of specialty bars, lounge bars, old school pubs and underground nightclub. The King Cross Hotel offers music, food, drink and entertainment every night.
The intersection of William Street, Darlinghurst Road and Victoria Street was known as Queens Cross in 1890s in honour of the Jubilee Queen Victoria. The name was changed to Kings Cross in 1905 to avoid confusion with Queens Place.
In earlier 19th century, it was known as Woolloomooloo Hill, and is the most prestigious residential area in Sydney with many mansions was built here. After World War II, the area was influenced by the returning troops from the Garden Island naval base nearby.
Once one of the grittier areas of Sydney, Kings Cross still maintains some of its edgy vibe but has been noticeably uplifted over recent years. Now the streets are lined with trendy cafes and quirky boutiques taking advantage of the lower rents in the area.
One of the things the Kings Cross area is known for is its preserved historic buildings. Many of the streets are lined with pretty, Victorian era houses. It is nice to spend an afternoon wandering the streets, appreciating the aesthetic, and popping into small shops and cafes along the way.
Elizabeth Bay House is a prominent historical building in the area. The 19th century home features columned entrances and balconies overlooking the nearby bay. Guests can enjoy tours of the opulent house and grounds, still furnished in the period style.
Kings Cross is one of Sydney’s top nightlife districts. The bars and clubs here are a little edgier than what you might find in the Central Business District. If you prefer your parties less polished and with more of a bite, this would be a great place to go for a night out.
Sex work has been legal, although heavily regulated, in Australia since the early 90s. Kings Cross has been known as Sydney’s Red-Light District since well before then. If you are interested in seeing how that impacts a city’s nightlife, then Kings Cross is a fascinating place to visit after dark.
Although it has been rejuvenated and uplifted in recent years, Kings Cross still maintains some of its seedier reputation and atmosphere. If you are content staying somewhere with a bit of an edgier vibe, then you can take advantage of the much more affordable accommodation available here.
Some points of interest in King Cross are El Alamein Fountain, The Fire Station, Old Fitzroy Hotel, Piccolo Bar, King Cross Hotel, and Coca Cola billboard sign.
Kings Cross is well known for being one of the cheapest areas to stay within Sydney. You will find plenty of budget accommodation to choose from. There are even hostels that cater specifically to backpackers that charge incredibly low rates if you are happy to accept the very basic facilities.
If you are concerned about staying in a grittier district, but still want to benefit from the affordable accommodation, try looking for hotels in the northwest section of Kings Cross. Bordering nearby Potts Point, you can still find plenty of budget options whilst staying on the edge of a more upscale district.
Stay In Kings Cross you are backpackers looking for budget-friendly accommodation; you want to stay in a neighbourhood with a gritty, urban vibe; you are curious to visit Sydney’s red light district; you are working with a smaller budget;
Best Places to stay in Sydney In Kings Cross:
mid-range ($$): Springfield Lodge This boutique hotel has Deluxe Double and Springfield Suite with fridge, air-conditioning and free wifi. Sydney Airport and Bondi Beach are both around 15 minutes drive by car.
mid-range ($$): Sydney Potts Point Central Apartment Hotel Located only 3 minutes’ walk from Kings Cross Train Station, this apartment provides a rooftop terrace with harbour and city views and BBQ facilities. All rooms have air-conditioning, refrigerator, tea and coffee maker.
mid-range ($$): Annam Serviced Apartments Convenienly located conveniently within a short walking distance from Kings Cross Railway Station, restaurants, bars and shops, this lodging offers modern studios with full kitchen facilities and free WiFi.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN KINGS CROSS🎬 Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Sydney in this video:
6. Paddington, a trendy inner Sydney suburb
Located just 3km east of the CBD, Paddington, or Paddo by locals, is the heritage village and is a trendy and cosmopolitan inner Sydney suburb. Home to lovely historic buildings, Paddington is a vibrant neighbourhood that keeps its fashionable atmosphere without falling into pretentiousness.
Once a blue collar or workers suburb, Paddo has been gentrified and become home of many stunning restored Victorian era terraces. The neighborhood will give you a strong sense of Sydney in the 19th-century.
If you enjoy shopping, Paddington offers an alternative to the more mainstream fare of central Sydney. The streets of Paddington are lined with chic, independent boutiques and charming cafes.
Oxford Street is a popular road for tourists to visit. One of the main roads in the city, Oxford Street is lined with beautiful Victorian era houses. Dotted with trendy cafes, it is lovely to take a stroll along Oxford Street and appreciate the pretty facades.
Located along Oxford Street are the popular Paddington Markets, opened in 1973. The market features numerous stalls selling the wares of local craftspeople, designers, and artists. You can find everything from fashion and homewares to art pieces. It is a great place to pick up some unique, local souvenirs.
Also along Oxford Street are the Paddington Reservoir Gardens. Far from your typical city park, the Paddington Reservoir Gardens are located in the recess of a defunct reservoir. Featuring the remains of old brick buildings against the newer metal bridges and walkways, it’s a pretty unique space.
There are also quite a few art galleries scattered about Paddington. From contemporary to classic, canvas to sculpture, whatever art style is your preference there is sure to be a gallery that caters to your tastes. Down practically every street you will stumble across another gallery displaying local artists’ works.
Whilst you will be staying close enough to the city centre to easily visit all the major tourist attractions, Paddington is also reasonably close to Bondi Beach. Whilst it’s probably a bit too far to comfortably walk, you can get there fairly quickly by train, bus, or car if you fancy a day at the beach.
Alternatively, if you want to spend some time outdoors but don’t want to schlep all the way to Bondi Beach, nearby Centennial Park offers a convenient escape from the press of the urban jungle. The park covers almost 470 acres and boasts duck ponds, cafes, and barbeque areas.
Being a little further out from the city centre, even though it is a wealthy area there is a good mix of affordable accommodation here. There are some lovely boutique hotels in the Paddington area for very reasonable rates, as well as super affordable hostels for those who want to keep costs as low as possible.
Stay In Paddington If you want to stay in a fashionable, upscale neighbourhood; you love art and browsing galleries; shopping at chic boutiques and quirky markets is how you like to spend your vacations; you want to stay close to the city centre whilst also being able to easily escape to the beach.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Paddington:
🔍MORE HOTELS IN PADDINGTON7. Chinatown, Australia’s largest Chinatown
Located in Haymarket, Australia’s largest Chinatown is a tiny little neighbourhood at the south end of the city centre. The entrance to Chinatown is marked by ornate gateways called Paifang, guarded by Chinese lion-dog statues. It really helps set the aesthetic for the area, welcoming you into a hub of Chinese culture and cuisine.
Sydney’s Chinese Center was located in The Rocks and Darling Harbour in the past, but it began to establish itself in its current location of Haymarket at CBD’s southern around 1920.
Dixon Street is a the pedestrian only and the main street of Chinatown. Hay Street is home to the City Amusement, Market City, Paddy’s Markets, and many yum cha restaurants. Paddy’s Markets is a great place to find Australian souvenirs for family and friends.
The Friday Chinatown Night Market offers great live entertainment and shopping. You will find tons of quality Chinese restaurants here, so if you get a craving for Chinese food, you know where to go. It’s not just Chinese food either. You can also enjoy great Japanese and Korean food here too.
There are also numerous shops selling Chinese trinkets and craft goods. If you are looking for a bargain, the markets around this area are full of them. From clothes and accessories to traditional Chinese wares, you can spend hours browsing the varied stalls.
If you want to take in the Chinese culture whilst enjoying the fresh air, there is a Chinese Friendship Garden in nearby Tumbalong Park. The garden features pagodas and koi ponds as well as a charming tea house.
Despite being within easy walking distance of many of Sydney’s major attractions, Chinatown offers some incredibly affordable accommodation options. If you want to stay close to the city centre without breaking the bank, this is a perfect location.
Chinatown is also right next to Sydney Central Station. If you are travelling into Sydney by train, then staying in or near Chinatown will mean less time shuffling between the station and your hotel.
Stay In Chinatown If you are looking for budget accommodation super close to the city centre, you want to stay close to Sydney Central Train Station, you really love Chinese culture and food; this is your first-time visiting Sydney;
Best Places to stay in Syndey in Chinatown:
🔍MORE HOTELS IN CHINATOWN8. Darlinghurst and Potts Point
Darlinghurst is a vibrant suburb separated from the city centre by Hyde Park. If you are looking for where to stay in Sydney that will provide an authentic, artsy vibe, with affordable accommodation, within walking distance of the city centre, Darlinghurst is a fantastic neighbourhood to consider.
Darlinghurst is home to the National Art School which explains why there are so many galleries in the area. In amongst all the contemporary galleries showcasing typical modern art, there is also The Artery.
The Artery Contemporary Aboriginal Art Gallery features various works by local aboriginal artists, perfect for getting to grips with Australia’s cultural heritage. Many of the pieces are available for sale. They would make for fantastic, culturally significant souvenirs.
Darlinghurst is the centre for Sydney’s LGBTQ community. If you are looking for LGBTQ friendly nightlife, head to the stretch of Oxford Street between Hyde Park and the University of Notre Dame. This area is lined with gay bars and clubs, ensuring you will enjoy a fabulous night out.
Nearby Potts Point is one of Sydney’s oldest neighbourhoods, and a little more upmarket than its surrounding areas. Just north of Kings Cross, it carries on the artsy atmosphere of the surrounding neighbourhoods whilst adding a little extra chic.
Foodies will love the variety available in the Potts Point area. The streets are lined with fashionable cafes and bistros offering a range of cuisines from around the world. If you aren’t feeling up to a fancy sit down dinner, there are some excellent local takeout restaurants here.
If you want to keep things really casual, head to Kings Cross Market. Here you can find dozens of food trucks and street food stalls to enjoy an al fresco lunch. Alternatively, head to one of many farmers’ markets to sample some incredible local produce and even more street food.
Other places of interest nearby are the Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, Artspace, El Alamein War Memorial Fountain, The McElhone Stairs, Potts Point Galleries, Coca Cola Sign, The Metro (Minerva) Theatre, and Tusculum.
The northern end of Potts Point is less developed, stretching out into a narrow peninsula. If you head out to the end of the peninsula you can enjoy stunning panoramic ocean views. You can see straight across the water to a wonderful view of Sydney Opera House.
This part of the peninsula is known as Garden Island. It is home to a navy base and the Royal Australian Navy Heritage Centre museum. The walk up to Garden Island is lovely, with the east side offering ocean views and the west side looking across the water to the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Being just outside of the city centre and quite close to Kings Cross, there is plenty of affordable accommodation to be found in the Darlinghurst area. There are a lot of good quality hostels for those who are really trying to keep costs down.
Potts Point can be a little more expensive, with a few more luxury options, particularly overlooking the ocean. However, there are still many mid-range to budget hotels and apartments to choose from. You can get the best of both an upscale neighbourhood and affordable accommodation.
Stay In Darlinghurst and Potts Point If you want to stay in a trendy inner city suburb, you want to stay relatively close to the city centre without breaking the bank, LGBTQ friendly nightlife is a priority for you, you are trying to keep accommodation costs down
Best places to stay in Darlinghurst and Potts Point:
- Luxury: Medusa Hotel Sydney
- Mid-range: Best Western Plus Hotel Stellar
- Budget: Darlo Bar Darlinghurst
9. Bondi Beach, where to stay in Sydney for the beach
Probably the most famous beach in Sydney, Bondi Beach and the surrounding neighbourhood is hugely popular with tourists. If you are planning to stay in Sydney for a relaxing beach vacation, Bondi Beach is probably high on your list of possibilities.
Located in East Sydney, Bondi Beach itself is covered in things to do. Obviously, you can spend your time relaxing on the soft, golden sand. Alternatively, head into the water and take advantage of the various water sports on offer.
Surfing is a very popular pastime in Bondi. The conditions in the area mean there are plenty of perfect waves to ride. If you have never surfed before, but would love to try, there are surf shops and schools along the length of the beach to get you started.
Being so incredibly popular, Bondi Beach can get super crowded. If you want to relax on a quieter beach, there are plenty of smaller beaches nearby to choose from. Generally, the further out from the main city, the quieter the beach.
It might sound like an unpleasant trek to have to walk out of town to find a more relaxing beach. However, the Bondi Beach area is actually well known for having some of the best coastal walks in the region.
A particularly popular walk is the route that leads from Bondi Beach, through Bronte Park, all the way to Coogee Beach. It is a pleasant 3 kilometre long walk along the clifftops and shoreline, offering stunning ocean views the whole way. There are plenty of cafes to stop at along the way, so you won’t get too tired.
Coogee Beach is another super popular location. Being relatively close to Bondi Beach, but away from the more fashionable, and pricy, main town, Coogee is particularly popular with backpackers. Coogee Beach is slightly more sheltered than Bondi, so it is better if you prefer calmer waters.
The Coogee Coastal Walk continues along the shoreline, following it round through nature reserves and numerous smaller beaches. There are even some saltwater pools set into the rocks dotted along the stretch. Ideal if you want to go for a dip but are nervous about Australia’s notorious sharks.
Another perk to staying near Bondi Beach is the proximity to Sydney Airport. With the airport just a few kilometres away to the west, you won’t have to waste too much of your precious vacation time getting between the plane and your hotel. You can also avoid the often terrible city centre traffic.
Being such a popular and iconic location, hotels and apartments here can get pretty expensive. There are some more affordable options a little further inland that cater to the thriving backpacking community that passes through the area. If you want to stay somewhere directly overlooking the beach and the ocean however, you are going to be paying a premium for it. There are some delightful luxury hotels around here if you have the budget for it.
If you do want to stay closer to the waterfront without breaking the bank, you may want to try nearby Coogee Beach. There are a few more mid-range options overlooking the beach here and even more affordable hotels, apartments, and hostels just a little further inland.
Stay In Bondi Beach If staying close to some of the best beaches in Sydney is a priority, you love surfing or are interested in learning, you prefer not to be right in the city centre, you want to stay closer to Sydney Airport.
Best Places to Stay in Bondi Beach:
luxury ($$$): QT Bondi This property is only 5 minutes’ walk from world-famous Bondi Beach, a short drive by car from Westfield Bondi Junction and Sydney Airport. It has spacious apartments with air-conditioning, modern bathroom, coffee machine, microwave, toaster, and a minibar.
mid-range ($$): Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach Sydney This accommodation is located within easy walking from Bondi Beach, bars and restaurants along Campbell Parade. You can choose to stay in fully self-contained apartments or studio rooms.
budget ($): Wake Up! Bondi Beach This beautiful hostel has s a rooftop terrace with umbrellas and deck chairs and views of Bondi Beach. You can choose to stay in private twin and double rooms to 4 and 6 share mixed dormitories.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN BONDI10. Manly, famous beach area to stay in Sydney
Manly is a charming beach resort a short ways north of central Sydney. Well outside of the main city, Manly is more for those planning a relaxing beach vacation rather than a busy city adventure.
The main attraction of Manly is, of course, the proximity to multiple beautiful beaches. The eponymous Manly Beach is the best known, but far from the only option. You will have your pick of both bustling family beaches and quieter, more secluded beaches.
Manly beach is the longest beach in the area. Lined with beach bars, shops, and water sports companies, Manly Beach is one of the most popular beaches for families to spend the day. It is backed by trees which lends it a scenic quality despite usually being very busy.
If you want a more relaxed beach day, away from the bustling crowds, there are plenty of smaller beaches nearby. Collins Beach and Store Beach are both more secluded. Store Beach in particular requires a bit of a walk to reach, but it is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere.
A lot of the southern end of manly is largely undeveloped and left to the natural landscape of trees. As such, there is plenty of opportunity to escape into nature and enjoy some lovely walking trails. There is a particularly lovely walk that leads from Shelly Beach past some old military ruins.
Just a few minutes away on the other side of the bay is another popular hiking area. Here you can enjoy one of the best coastal walks in the area. The trails will lead you through the trees and past landmarks including lighthouses and Aboriginal rock carvings.
Despite being outside of the city, Manly town is well equipped with everything visitors could want during their stay. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy at the end of a long day relaxing on the beaches.
If you are put off by being so far from the city centre, don’t worry. You can easily get straight into Central Sydney via a pleasant ferry ride. You can relax and take in the river breeze as you coast right into the heart of Sydney at Circular Quay.
In general, Sydney is a very safe city with impressively low crime rates. However, if you do still want to prioritise staying in the safest location possible, it is hard to beat Manly. Quiet, suburban Manly is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Sydney, so you and your family can completely relax.
Although it’s far from the main city, being a popular resort area means that prices for accommodation may not be as low as you expect. There are some great mid-range options here though. You will have plenty of opportunities to score a room with sea views.
Stay In Manly If You are planning a family vacation, Staying close to lovely beaches is a priority, You don’t mind being a bit further out from the main city center, Sightseeing in Sydney is not your primary plan.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Manly:
luxury ($$$): Quest Manly Located near Manly Ferry Wharf, offers easy access to Sydney city centre via ferry. You can choose to stay in g studio, 1 and 2-bedroom self-contained apartments.. You will be located close to Manly Surf Beach, Manly ‘Surf n Slide’ Water Park, Q-Station and North Head Sanctuary.
mid-range ($$): Manly Paradise Motel & Apartments This property has an outdoor, rooftop swimming pool, private sundeck, and private car parking. You will be close to shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.
budget ($): Manly Bunkhouse Only short walk from The Corso’s shops, pubs and restaurants; and a short drive by car from Manly Sea Life Sanctuary and Manly Ferry Wharf. There is also a garden and BBQ facilities, and game rooms.
🔍MORE HOTELS IN MANLYGetting around Sydney without a car
Syney has the extensive public transport network, you don’t need a car to stay in Sydney. There are many type of public transport including buses, trains, ferries and light rail. You can purchase an Opal card from newsagents, post offices, convenience stores and train and bus stations; or use a credit card to tap.
If you travel from the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport to city center, there is airport train to take you the Central. You can also take a Uber or airport taxi which is only 30 minutes to the city center.
You can easily explore the city by hopping on the city train loop, City Circle. It start from Central Station to Circular Quay, stopping off near attractions such as Hyde Park, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, The Queen Victoria Building.
With the train from the Central Station, you can have a day trips to The Blue Mountains National Park, Katoomba, the Central Coast, Newcastle, Wollongong, Canberra and the Southern Highlands.
Sydney also has the Lightrail sytem. It connects the Central to Circular Quay and stop at famous spots such as Chinatown, Townhall, QVB, Wynyard and Grosvenor Street.
Another way to explore Sydney is to hire private boat to cruise around Sydney Harbour. You can also take ferries to Sydney Zoo, Manly, Luna Park, and the Watsons Bay Hotel.
There are also plenty of buses across the Sydney CBD, that take you to Surry Hills, Kings Cross and Bondi Beach. The CBD is very walkable, you can aslo easily explore many things on foot!
Circular Quay, The Rocks, CBD, Darling Harbour are all the best places to stay in Sydney without a car due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be within a short distance to many famous landmarks. You can easily explore on foot and public transport.
Where should I stay in Sydney for the first time?
Sydney CBD is the best area to stay in Sydney for first-timers because it is the most central area and transport hub of the city. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of action, within walking distance to famous sights, restaurants, bars, and shops.
Where is the best place to stay in Sydney without a car?
Sydney CBD and Darling Harbour are the best places to stay in Sydney without a car due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be located in the heart of action. You can easily explore everything on foot and public transport.
See more:
- Best Areas to Stay in Melbourne
- Best Areas to Stay in Brisbane
- Best Areas to stay in Perth
- Best Areas to Stay in Adelaide
- Best Areas to Stay in Gold Coast
- 15 Best Hostels in Melbourne for Solo Travelers
- How Many Days in Brisbane is Enough?
- Best Areas to Stay in Cairns
- Where to stay in Auckland, New Zealand
Overall, Sydney CBD is the best area to stay in Sydney for first-timers due to its prime location. If you book a hotel here, you will be in the heart of actions, within walking distance to the top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Once you have decided the best neighborhood to book your stay, you need to decide How many days should you spend in Sydney. For that, I recommend spend at least 5 days in Sydney if this is your first visit because 5 days is a good amount of time to see famous attraction like Opera House and Syney Harbor, as well as enjoy food, wine and get the sense of the city. You can always come back next visit and see more!