If a holiday’s as much about the hotel as the destination for you, then these Sydney gems deliver: perfectly located for days exploring the city’s iconic attractions and with perks like harbour views, hatted restaurants and rooftop pools.
The hotel was amazing Staff went out of their way to help us with everything that we asked of them. It was a 6 star holiday
Thank you very much & we will br returning
10.0
sylvia p.3 escapes · 2 reviews
Our stay was excellent. The staff were attentive, caring and always happy.
10.0
Jennifer B.28 escapes · 12 reviews
Excellent hotel in all respects. Great rooms, clean, friendly staff, lovely bar and food.
10.0
Joanne C.7 escapes · 2 reviews
The staff were so friendly, all staff (reception and restaurant) . The rooms were lovely , very quiet and bed comfortable.
10.0
Christine M.13 escapes · 2 reviews
Fabulous hotel..one of the best we have.stayed int
Paradox Sydney
Check in to Paradox Sydney for new heights of luxury in the heart of the CBD, within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay and The Rocks. Set within a heritage-listed architectural masterpiece dating from 1856 (once home to the Fairfax newspaper empire), this five-star hotel offers one of Australia’s standout fine-dining experiences at the three-hatted Bentley Restaurant & Bar, and a next-level spa with a pool and Turkish hammam.
Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point, an IHG Hotel
This 105-room boutique stay sits in the heart of Kings Cross, in the shadow of the neighbourhood’s neon Coca-Cola sign, with high-floor rooms looking out over Rushcutters Bay. Days here are shaped by Potts Point’s mix of galleries, bars and restaurant sittings.
It was great location staff was fantastic. Great breakfast and very clean . 👌
10.0
AnonymousID
The location was perfect for easy access to transport and beautiful cafes. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout.
10.0
AnonymousID
The hotel is very close to train station, bus stops, restaurants and supermarket. Room size is big enough, nice mattress and it has handheld shower! Staff and services were top notch and friendly. We had a really nice stay here and will be back for sure.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Really loved what they've done with the space. From the entrance to the bedroom, the ambience are very playful and edgy.
Our room came with buffet breakfast. Though small, the buffet deliver both hot food and continental.
Service are fantastic and friendly. Location are very central, close to Kings Cross station, Coles and Woolworths and over-abundance of food option.
Would definitely recommend!
10.0
AnonymousSG
The stay was amazing! Staff were really attentive and friendly. The best surprise was that the hotel gym was the Anytime Fitness in the building. Great for folks who are not AF members
Ace Hotel Sydney
This oasis of designer-led cool, a former brick factory on the edge of Surry Hills, is all about the little details: curated minibars and custom Tivoli radios in each room, chef-hatted Kiln restaurant on the roof and day-to-night cafe and bar off the main lobby.
Sitting at the heart of Sydney’s CBD, the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has been the city’s benchmark for five-star luxury since it opened in 1966 as Australia’s first international hotel. French sophistication runs through every detail, from elegantly refurbished rooms and suites to the exclusive Club Millésime lounge. The dining is equally considered: Tilda, the hotel’s chef-hatted modern Australian restaurant, sits alongside Vietnamese-French favourite Delta Rue, cocktail den Bar Tilda and the terrace-perched Wentworth Bar: four distinct venues without needing to step outside.
Wildlife Retreat at Taronga
Did you know there’s a bucket-list hidden gem on Sydney Harbour, right within Taronga Zoo? At the eco-friendly Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, rooms and lodges are designed to blend into the native bushland, where koalas, echidnas and platypus roam around just outside the windows. Guests enjoy zoo access and seasonal dining at Me-Gal, the harbour-view restaurant serving contemporary Australian dishes like mafaldine pasta with MSC Abrolhos island octopus, tomato, black garlic and native basil.
best staff, best service & a real luxury escape from the service to the room fitout!
10.0
cuong h.AU · 4 escapes · 1 review
We absolutely loved our two-night stay at Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, booked through Luxury Escapes! Check-in was seamless, our room was spotlessly clean with fantastic views, and the reception and bar areas were spacious and inviting.
The best perk was access to Taronga Zoo on both days. Even if your room isn't ready, you can get a temporary pass to enter early. This allowed us to explore at a relaxed pace without rushing. The bird show was definitely the highlight.
Breakfast offered stunning views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, although the selection was fairly standard. The main disappointment was the extremely runny scrambled eggs. We requested alternatives, such as fried or boiled eggs, but the kitchen refused to accommodate our request.
We also loved the nearby Bradleys Head walking track for a beautiful morning stroll.
Overall, a fantastic experience combining wildlife, relaxation and beautiful scenery. Highly recommended! We would definitely return, even with our extended family.
10.0
Debbie B.AU · 12 escapes · 4 reviews
What a wonderful experience.
10.0
AnonymousHK
Staying alongside the animals is amazing!
10.0
Catherine G.AU · 10 escapes · 6 reviews
This is one of the best Luxury Escapes purchases I have made. The Wildlife Retreat is thoughtfully designed to feel like they are part of the surrounding landscape, and the rooms are lovely with floor the ceiling opening glass windows to take in the beautiful views. The inclusion of the various zoo walks, plus buffet breakfast
(which had a great range of options)delicious) and parking made the whole experience exceptional. The staff were very helpful from check in to check out. The tour guides on the zoo walks were very informative and had a lot of knowledge on the particular animals we were viewing. If you are looking for a holiday/mini break where everything is taken care of for you, I would definitely recommend this package
The Darling
Considered urban living meets city glamour at this jewel of Darling Harbour, the city’s only Forbes five-star-rated boutique hotel. This architectural marvel features a 16-room spa with a hammam, a 25-metre heated pool and chef-hatted Japanese dining at Sokyo, not to mention direct access to The Star complex with its countless restaurants, bars, casino and Sydney Lyric Theatre. Your room is an oasis after dark, with Jo Loves by Jo Malone amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows revealing the sparkling city below.
Our first stay in a genuine 5 star hotel and we weren't disappointed. From the professionalism of the reception team and the level of detail they provided regarding our package, to the presentation of our room, to the daily room servicing, to the efficiency of room service and quality of meals and the fantastic buffet breakfast, it was all of the highest quality.
10.0
Mary L.AU · 3 escapes · 1 review
Great accommodation and excellent service
10.0
Michael H.AU · 35 escapes · 7 reviews
A beautiful Hotel in an exceptional location
10.0
Nita F.AU · 14 escapes · 5 reviews
Great location and hotel
10.0
Veronica M.AU · 5 escapes · 1 review
Fabulous hotel. One of the best breaks we have had in a long time. Service and facilities were exceptional, would highly recommend and will definitely be back.
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
The Four Seasons brand is all about elevated luxury and the Sydney outpost is no different. Sitting on the doorstep of Sydney Harbour, this five-star escape features spacious guest rooms, four dining and drinking options and one of the city’s largest heated outdoor pools.
Rising over Darling Harbour, W Sydney’s futuristic exterior is the first indicator of the wow-factor to be expected from the biggest W hotel in the world. Also home to Sydney’s IMAX cinema, the complex features a 29th-floor infinity pool with million-dollar-views over the harbour, a dessert bar by one of Asia’s finest pastry chefs, Janice Wong, and rooms in W’s signature eclectic style, with quirks like cocktail bars stocked by local producers.
Set high above the historic Rocks precinct, Shangri-La Sydney pairs polished city luxury with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Its rooms and suites sit across 36 levels, making those iconic vistas part of the stay. Take in the panorama over dinner or drinks at the level 36 restaurant and bar, then unwind at Chi, The Spa.
We enjoyed our stay, the staff are so helpful, everything we requested via room service was promptly given to us. Staff at the breakfast buffet was super helpful, a staff named Grace lee was very friendly, and even went to have a chat with our kids, made us feel welcome and want to come back again.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Great location close to circular quay and walking distance to Barangaroo.
The facilities are fantastic and rooms are decent size.
The buffet breakfast is exceptional and all the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Will definitely stay again 🙂
10.0
AnonymousSA
Amazing view and a lifetime experience
10.0
AnonymousAU
For a stunning view of Sydney Harbour, the Shangri-La Sydney is a must. Don't think about it. Just book it. Slightly older decor but everything works and it is spotlessly clean. Service is 5 stars. Can't wait to go back.
10.0
Tracey T.AU · 2 escapes · 2 reviews
Fabulous hotel. Great service. Fantastic location. Horizon Club Room is first class!
InterContinental Sydney Double Bay
The harbour-view rooftop pool, exclusive to guests, is the jewel in the crown of this five-star hotel, where city life meets coastal relaxation. Hop across to the CBD by train in five minutes, car in 10 or by ferry to Circular Quay, or stay for Double Bay’s vibrant dining scene, boutique shopping and prized foreshore.
I love this hotel. Charming and elegant hotel with wonderful service and great location . The breakfast is fantastic with wide range and variety of selection . The room is beautifully decorated with comfortable bedding and sitting area for relaxation .The bathroom has separate shower and bath tub with wonderful amenities.
10.0
AnonymousID
Very clean hotel. Welcoming staff even in the lobby when you stepped out of your car, they greeted you very warmly. When we got into our car they also close the door for us. Very professional staff. Great amenities from Le Labo which is a plus! Breakfast selection pretty great. Close to many good cafes and coffee shops. You could do your morning walk to rose bay area or rushcutter’s bay area. It’s a very nice walk by the sea with the harbour bridge view
10.0
AnonymousGB
Excellent hotel. Great location in Double Bay with good cafes and restaurants nearby and excellent ferry, bus and rail services into Sydney and Bondi.
10.0
Robert C.AU · 13 escapes · 3 reviews
I’ll stay at the Intercontinental was fantastic. The staff were very friendly and hospitable catering for our every need. The buffet breakfast was very tasty and generous. The views from the rooftop bar were exceptional.
The Langham Sydney
Settle into a five-star sanctuary within easy reach of The Rocks and Walsh Bay at The Langham Sydney. Lavish rooms and suites offer stunning skyline views, while the jaw-dropping Observatory Bar serves up astronomy-inspired cocktails.
We had a lovely stay, the room was beautifully decorated, plenty of space and an extremely comfortable bed. The staff were very polite and helpful. We loved the pool and steam room, we will return.
10.0
AnonymousID
An excellent stay with a convenient location, friendly and helpful staff. The bathroom and amenities was especially well regarded. Shopping area was near.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Always a favourite for us as a family and for a getaway too, staff are super friendly and had a small gift for my kids birthdays
The Star Grand Hotel
Stay in the harbourside heart of Sydney’s CBD at The Star Grand, where world-class entertainment, high-end dining and sweeping city views come together under one iconic roof. Soak in the serenity of your five-star room before exploring the complex’s vast facilities, including a skyline-view swimming pool, high-tea parlour and retail precinct.
State day overnight in October 24 2026 it was the best location with light rail at the door plenty of food options places amazing
10.0
James L.AU · 46 escapes · 14 reviews
The room was a good size, the buffet breakfast was delicious, and the location was great, with everything close by and just a short, pleasant walk into town. There were plenty of places to eat nearby, and the hotel’s Italian restaurant, Cucina Porto, was a real highlight. Overall, we had a comfortable stay and really enjoyed the convenience of the location.
10.0
debbie j.AU · 2 escapes · 2 reviews
Always great service, buffet breakfast is fantastic.
10.0
Elena L.AU · 31 escapes · 14 reviews
We purchased 2 packages to bring a couple from Germany. All of us loved our stay, the food at Cucina restaurant and the breakfast
10.0
Luigi T.AU · 9 escapes · 3 reviews
Great location, very comfortable room with very helpful staff
Capella Sydney
Elevate your Sydney escape at this golden beacon, where a heritage sandstone façade gives way to a design-led interior, complete with a world-class wellness centre and glamorous drinking and dining. Occupying an iconic corner in the heart of the CBD, Capella Sydney couldn’t be better placed for days exploring the Harbour City.
Convenient location, welcoming staff, good facility, kids loved the pool. Will stay again
10.0
AnonymousAU
Beautiful stay. Great service, food and facilities.
10.0
AnonymousSG
Excellent services, beautiful interior and building, most comfortable bed, huge room, everything is just perfect! We stayed for 3N and didn’t wana leave the hotel! This is truly a great hotel!
10.0
Mary H.AU · 6 escapes · 1 review
A truly beautiful stay !
10.0
AnonymousAU
One of the most beautiful hotels we’ve stayed at, from location to staff everything was wonderful.
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Heritage-listed luxury has been reinvented through a five-star lens at the former General Post Office building. Elegant rooms, a refined lounge and bar area and the serene Endota Spa are just some of the calling cards of this central escape, which also happens to be within walking distance of Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Convenience and comfort walk hand-in-hand at this sophisticated five-star sanctuary, nestled just metres from Sydney’s sought-after attractions. Unwind under the sun at Silo Bar, enhance your wellbeing at Amora Spa or simply snooze in your sleek city-view room.
Love everything about this hotel, from location, facilities and especially the staff. They truly help us to make our stay great. We rest and nourished beautifully and we really enjoyed our trip in Sydey. Thank you very much for your hospitality. This hotel is high on our recommendation when you visit Sydney.
10.0
AnonymousAU
We love the Amora on Jamison for its location, easy access, friendly staff and an overall awesome experience!
10.0
AnonymousAU
Love this hotel with great location to access city, Circular Quay and Darling Harbour.
10.0
AnonymousMY
Great hotel in a fantastic location.
So close to George Street and the rocks and really everything you need to get to in the CBD.
The property was clean.
Brooksy bar was a lovely little reprieve after a day out exploring.
10.0
AnonymousAU
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The tram is just a short stroll away, making it incredibly easy to get around. It’s also an easy walk to Circular Quay or along the bustling George Street, with plenty of shops, cafés and attractions to enjoy along the way. The location is fantastic, the accommodation was comfortable, and everything we needed was close by. We would 100% stay here again and highly recommend it!
QT Sydney
Tradition, theatre and technology meet at QT Sydney, perfectly positioned near the shopping street Pitt St Mall. Admire the heritage features of the facade, before enjoying the sophistication of the hotel’s facilities, including sleek rooms, a Little Italy-inspired steakhouse and high tea parlour.
QT Sydney is quintessential QT brand, the vibes are immaculate, the bar and restaurant areas just fantastic, the staff absolutely lovely. A special mention to the Club Sandwhich but especially the fries which has the most amazing salt I’ve ever tasted on them, I was in fry heaven.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Great location, walkable to everywhere. Great breakfast, loved the parlour..
10.0
AnonymousGB
From arrival
To departure the environment, facilities, location and staff make you feel awesome.
10.0
AnonymousSG
Excellent location and very helpful staff. Clean.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Great location! Can be busy but you can hardly hear the commotion from inside the hotel. Our room was near the elevator and we could also hardly hear other guests from inside our room. Gave us a feeling of privacy with its quietness. Good size room, spacious bathroom, comfortable large bed. It’d be nice if the water pressure from overhead shower was a bit stronger. Also maybe some natural light in the bathroom so we can see our skin in the real lighting. But nothing major to complain overall.
Tips for where to stay in Sydney
Which Sydney hotel has the best harbour views?
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and InterContinental Sydney Double Bay are the two standouts. The Four Seasons sits on the doorstep of Sydney Harbour and has one of the city’s largest heated outdoor pools, so the view comes with you for a swim. At InterContinental Sydney Double Bay, the harbour-view rooftop pool is reserved for guests only, pairing city convenience with a quieter, coastal outlook.
Where should I stay in Sydney if I want to be near the Opera House?
Paradox Sydney and The Langham Sydney both put you within walking distance. Paradox occupies a heritage sandstone building on O’Connell Street, close enough to Circular Quay, the Rocks and the Opera House to reach any of them on foot. The Langham Sydney sits near the Rocks and Walsh Bay, with the Observatory Bar upstairs.
