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.
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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Recommended Accommodation |
|---|---|
| 👑 5 star / luxury | ADGE Apartments |
| 🛎️ B&b & mid-range | Chateau De Venus |
| 🎒 Hostel and low-cost | Sydney Harbour YHA |
| 🏡 Vacation rental / apartments | Ibis Budget Sydney East |
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Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Sidney
| Target | Area | Rates from |
|---|---|---|
| Stay on a budget | Potts Point | $110,00 |
| Haymarket (Chinatown) | $110,00 | |
| Families | CBD | $130,00 |
| Circular Quay | $150,00 | |
| Paddington | $140,00 | |
| Manly | $130,00 | |
| Young | The Rocks | $140,00 |
| Potts Point | $110,00 | |
| Surry Hills | $130,00 | |
| Darlinghurst | $130,00 | |
| Bondi Beach | $150,00 |
Not recommended areas: outlying areas such as Blacktown, Redfern, Bankstown, Cabramatta, Fairfield, Perith and Liverpool. These are suburbs very far from the CBD.
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
Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Sydney. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking
CBD (Central Business District), best for first-timers
- Pros: Super central, amazing transport links, right near all the big sights, heaps of food spots.
- Cons: Can get pretty hectic and loud, less of a residential vibe, accommodation can hit your wallet hard.
- Main attractions: Sydney Tower Eye, Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park, Pitt Street Mall.
- Average prices: From $110,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $130,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Circular Quay-Sydney Harbour, best for iconic views
- Pros: Home to those postcard-perfect landmarks, insane harbour views, easy peasy ferry access for exploring, loads of fancy dining.
- Cons: Super touristy, expect crowds and higher prices.
- Main attractions: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Garden, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
- Average prices: From $150,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $150,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
The Rocks, best for history buffs
- Pros: Old-school charm with cobblestone streets, lively weekend markets, awesome traditional pubs and eateries.
- Cons: Also pretty touristy, can get packed, some places to stay are on the pricier side.
- Main attractions: The Rocks Discovery Museum, Argyle Cut, Cadman's Cottage, The Rocks Markets.
- Average prices: From $140,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $140,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Potts Point, best for foodies
- Pros: Elegant buildings, leafy streets, an absolutely killer dining scene, cool cafes, close to the city but way chiller.
- Cons: Some hilly streets to contend with, not many big attractions right on your doorstep.
- Main attractions: Macleay Street, Arthur McElhone Reserve, Challis Avenue.
- Average prices: From $110,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $110,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Darlinghurst, best for nightlife & LGBTQ+ scene
- Pros: Buzzing nightlife, trendy bars and clubs galore, diverse eating options, super close to Oxford Street, seriously bohemian vibes.
- Cons: Can get loud at night, some bits are more residential than others.
- Main attractions: Oxford Street, Taylor Square, National Art School.
- Average prices: From $130,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $130,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Paddington, best for shopping & fashion lovers
- Pros: High-end boutiques, gorgeous Victorian terrace houses, charming cafes, and don't miss the Saturday markets!
- Cons: Shopping here can definitely stretch your budget, a bit further from some city centre attractions.
- Main attractions: Paddington Markets, Oxford Street (eastern end), Victoria Barracks.
- Average prices: From $140,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $140,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Surry Hills, best for trendy cafes & creative vibes
- Pros: Super hip and happening, incredible cafes and restaurants, cool art galleries, unique boutique shops, loads of atmosphere.
- Cons: Can be pretty busy, parking can be a nightmare.
- Main attractions: Crown Street, Bourke Street, Brett Whiteley Studio.
- Average prices: From $130,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $130,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Haymarket (Chinatown), best for budget eats & Asian culture
- Pros: Authentic Asian food that won't break the bank, lively buzz, vibrant night markets, close to entertainment venues.
- Cons: Can get seriously crowded, especially on weekends.
- Main attractions: Capitol Theatre, Paddy's Markets, Dixon Street Mall.
- Average prices: From $110,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $110,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Bondi Beach, best for beach lovers & coastal lifestyle
- Pros: That famous beach, awesome surf culture, epic coastal walks, trendy cafes and bars, super chill vibe.
- Cons: Can be absolutely swamped, especially in summer, a bit further from the city centre hustle.
- Main attractions: Bondi Beach, Bondi Icebergs Pool, Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk.
- Average prices: From $150,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $150,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Manly, best for family fun & a scenic ferry ride
- Pros: Beautiful beach, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for watersports, that stunning ferry trip from Circular Quay, great for families.
- Cons: You'll need to catch a ferry to get to the city centre, can get busy on weekends.
- Main attractions: Manly Beach, Shelly Beach, Manly Corso, Quarantine Station.
- Average prices: From $130,00 per night – find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
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 start from about $130,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
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.
Travel Tips for Sydney
- Public Transport: Sydney's public transport is pretty good with trains, buses, and ferries. Grab an Opal Card for easy tap-on, tap-off travel. The ferries are a must-do – they're not just transport, they're scenic tours!
- Best Time to Visit: Aim for spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May). The weather is lovely, and you'll dodge the peak summer crowds and scorching heat.
- Local Currency: It's the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are accepted pretty much everywhere, but it's handy to have a little cash for smaller spots or local markets.
- Sun Protection: Seriously, the Aussie sun is no joke. Always slather on sunscreen, wear a hat, and rock some sunglasses, especially if you're planning a day out.
- Embrace the Outdoors: Sydney is all about that outdoor life. Hit up the coastal walks, chill on the beaches, or have a picnic in one of the many gorgeous parks.
- Tipping: Unlike some places, tipping isn't really a thing in Australia. If you get amazing service, a little extra is always appreciated, but it's not expected.
Sydney accommodation price map
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.
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