Renowned for its rich heritage, stunning coastal landscapes and dynamic city scenes, Sydney is a city with something for everyone. A beloved location for family holidays, luxury escapes and business trips, it’s little surprise the outpost (which, for our international readers, is actually *not* the nation’s capital) is Australia’s most-visited destination.
Naturally, Sydney is also home to some of Australia’s most notable hotels, stretching from the hustle and bustle of the CBD to the stress-free sands of the Northern Beaches. It is therefore the perfect place to splurge and put yourself up in one of the country’s top accommodations.
Scroll on for Cosmopolitan Australia‘s edit of the best places to stay in Sydney in 2025. You can thank us later…
where to stay in sydney...
01
The EVE, Surry Hills
A newly-opened sanctuary on the border of Surry Hills and Redfern, The EVE Hotel Sydney is a must for those looking to wine, dine and unwind in luxury. The EVE’s design and décor might have you *almost* thinking you were in Europe, if it weren’t for the thoughtful touches of local architects, designers and artisans, like Henry Wilson (who designed sculptural lighting) throughout the hotel, which add a contemporary Australian charm to space.
Every detail—from the sun umbrellas surrounding the 20-metre rooftop pool, to the sweet stone finishings in the bedrooms and bespoke Saardé lifestyle products throughout—has been considered and specially chosen for the space, and it shows in the blend of comfort and luxury in the rooms.
Not only is The EVE nestled in a thoughtfully-curated new lifestyle precinct, Wunderlich Lane, which houses several bars and cafés; the hotel itself is home to eateries of its own. On the rooftop (a stone’s throw from the pool area) you will find Lottie, a sundrenched Mexican rooftop restaurant and bar and downstairs, Bar Julius, The EVE’s European-inspired lobby bar.
02
QT Sydney, CBD
Tucked in beside the famous State Theatre on Market Street, QT Sydney offers a one of a kind experience for tourists and locals looking to make the most of the city’s buzz. An art deco masterpiece finished with modern touches (hello, Dyson hair appliances), the QT offers plenty of charm without skimping on comfort or ease.
The 200 guest rooms are scented with the same notes as Coco Chanel’s famous Chanel No. 5 fragrance, and feature Nespresso machines, Patsy Payne artwork and Chromecast, alongside comfortable furniture and luxury finishings.
Be sure to stop by one of the QT Sydney’s several hospitality offerings, too. The hotel is home to Growings, a restaurant inspired by New York’s Little Italy; Growings Bar, a speciality cocktail bar; and Parlour, a French diner. You can also pop by spaQ to unwind, or QTea to enjoy a High Tea curated by Adriana Zumbo.
03
Hotel Morris, CBD
This heritage-listed boutique hotel sits comfortably in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant CBD, conveniently located just steps from public transport hubs and some of Sydney’s most popular attractions. With easy access to all that the city life has to offer, the beautifully restored hotel offers 82 rooms that blend Italian boutique charm with Sydney cities’ vibrant energy. Guest rooms are a haven of comfort with Art Deco design, custom fittings and new technology, designed for the ultimate stay. The Hotel also sits just above Bar Morris, “an intimate and indulgent wine bar that offers more than just drinks. It’s an experience designed to awaken the senses and inspire.”
04
Oxford House, Paddington
Modelled after the sun-kissed motels of Palm Springs, this urban sanctuary offers a truly unique stay with 55 rooms available, leafy courtyards, and a retro-style house pool to indulge in. Guests are treated to some of the finest local amenities in their rooms like custom robes by Double Rainbouu and bath products by Grown Alchemist. With easy access to their high-calibre street-facing restaurant and ’70s-inspired first-floor pool bar, it is not hard to sip your worries away with drinks from one of their menus curated by renowned local chefs and spicy margaritas shaken by beaming bartenders.
05
The Intercontinental Double Bay, Double Bay
If you are searching for a luxury seaside stay, look no further than this gem located within one of Sydney’s most unique and picturesque pockets. A short stroll away from world-class restaurants, bustling nightlife and elevated cafe culture, everything you need for a beautiful city-adjacent escape is well and truly within reach at the Intercontinental Double Bay. Positioned beside the heart of the city, the hotel is still amongst an abundance of natural beauty—situated near beautiful beaches and relaxing bush walks—Intercontinental is perfect if you would still like to soak up the tranquil surroundings that Sydney has to offer whilst staying in one of the city’s finest accommodations. Their panoramic rooftop bar is the perfect place to sip a cocktail and admire the harbour views; pairing hand-in-hand with their award-winning dining venues.
06
The Baxley, Bondi
Located within walking distance of Bondi’s local shopping, loads of public transport, and the all-iconic Beach, the Baxley is the perfect choice for a beachside getaway. Whether you’re in town for a short stay or a longer vacation, the carefully curated design and thoughtful guest amenities ensure guests have the ultimate stay filled with comfort and tranquillity. They offer a stunning variety of rooms from single, double and queen with shared bathrooms to a premium queen room with a private ensuite. The unique signature boutique accommodation was designed to deliver affordable luxury to those wanting to enjoy the city, whilst experiencing the best that Bondi Beach has to offer.
07
Ovolo, Woolloomooloo
Parallel to Sydney’s CBD, Ovolo Hotel Woolloomooloo offers 5-star boutique accommodation options including beautifully designed private rooms and outstanding loft suites right in the heart of the bay’s iconic Cowpers’ Wharf. Boasting spacious rooms and first-class facilities like its Indoor pool, restaurant, bar & fitness centre, Ovolo is a perfect union of heritage and modern luxury. Located near Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens, you will be in the perfect location to explore beautiful parklands and the Sydney Opera House. Positioned right beside Circular Quay, there is no better place to indulge in the rich history of the Woolloomooloo Wharf and take in the stunning contemporary designs the hotel is highly regarded for.
08
Pullman Quay Grand, Sydney Harbour
If you’re after a front-row seat to Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, this is it. Perfectly positioned in Circular Quay, with the Harbour Bridge on one side and the Opera House on the other, Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, delivers five-star luxury with an unbeatable postcode.
With spacious apartment-style suites (ideal if you’re staying more than a weekend), the hotel blends city polish with relaxed, resort-style living. Days here begin with waterfront walks through the Royal Botanic Garden and end with cocktails at Hacienda upstairs — arguably one of the best sunset views in town.
Whether you’re heading to the CBD, shopping Pitt Street, exploring The Rocks, or catching a ferry to Manly, the location couldn’t be more convenient. And when you’re ready to retreat, the mood shifts to total calm — plush interiors, harbour stillness, and a little extra space to breathe.
Pullman Quay Grand is where global luxury meets Sydney soul. It’s classic, chic, and exactly where you want to wake up.
