Sydney, a city of unparalleled beauty and charm, is not just about iconic landmarks and bustling streets; it’s also a haven for those seeking unique and intimate accommodation experiences.
Tucked away in its vibrant neighbourhoods are boutique hotels that rival the cookie-cutter stays you’re used to and offer quirky, cool and unforgettable alternatives to make your next stay, one you’ll never forget.
From the iconic seaside suburbs of Bondi to the vibrant energy of Surry Hills, each neighbourhood boasts its own collection of boutique accommodations and are surrounded by the best bars, restaurants, shops and sights the city has to offer.
Whether you’re after something moody and cosy to curl up in after a long day or a luxurious pool to lounge by, cocktail in hand, then you’re in luck. Because, as connoisseurs of all things luxe we have rounded up our very favourite boutique stays around Sydney for your perusal.
So don’t stress – just book away and prepare to unwind at the best of the best the city has to offer.
The best boutique hotels to stay at in Sydney 2024
The Strand Hotel
99 William Street, Darlinghurst
Book a much-needed weekend away at Darlinghurst’s The Strand Hotel, located in the heart of the suburb surrounded by the best food and drink you could imagine. The century-old heritage building offers 17 unique hotel rooms with cosy hideaways or luxurious suites to choose from, as well as a library and coworking spaces for a decadent work-ation.
Make sure not to miss a meal at Bistrotheque for French cuisine that is très délicieux and finish the night at their newly reopened and unmissable Morrocan-inspired rooftop bar Kasbah where you can enjoy skyline views, pumping tunes and delectable drinks.
Oxford House
21 Oxford St, Paddington
Escape to the coolest, trendiest, and most serene oasis right in the heart of Paddington with a stay at Oxford House. This Insta-ready hotel offers expertly designed rooms to suit any need, whether for bigger family trips or solo staycations. Lounge by their Palm Springs-inspired pool and while away the day, or take a stroll through the streets of Paddington – stocking up on poolside reads and meandering through local fashion boutiques.
Stop by the all-day diner for mouth-wateringly good Australian food, carefully curated by Tyler Preston, and finish with a natural wine at Busby’s or a cocktail at the poolside bar.
The Old Clare
1 Kensington St, Chippendale
Located in the bustling streets of Sydney’s CBD, The Old Clare places you a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s best eateries during your stay. With Chinatown down the road and Spice Alley just downstairs, you’re spoilt for choice. The hotel’s elevated Aussie pub bar, The Clare Bar, is a must-try for negronis and beer. Additionally, the rooftop is the perfect place to spend hot summer nights – dip your toes in the pool, enjoy the view of Sydney city, and savour delicious cocktails.
Rest your head after a long day of exploring in one of their expertly decorated rooms. You can even bring your furry friend along for the adventure with a pet-friendly room on offer. Make the most of your time with ample facilities such as a gym, free bikes to roam the city, a library, and best of all, late checkout.
Ace Hotel
47-53 Wentworth Ave, Sydney
Book a trip to Ace Hotel’s very first venue in the Southern Hemisphere and enjoy the quality hospitality they are known for. With rooms so nice you’ll never want to leave, this decadent stay is housed in a former brick factory at the bottom of Surry Hills, just a short walk into the middle of the city’s CBD. Decorated in earthy Australian tones of ochre, red, and green, you’ll feel as if stepping into a gallery thanks to the stunning works of local artists that adorn the walls. You can even bring along your pooch (or something else if you ask nicely) for an additional fee.
Check out the diner on the 18th floor, Kiln, for some wood-fired feeds from head chef Michael Orr while you admire the stunning surrounding cityscapes, or head to the ground floor Loam restaurant and bar. You can rest peacefully knowing the drinks lineup was curated by P&V’s Mike Bennie, so you’re guaranteed to find your fix.
QT Bondi
6 Beach Rd, Bondi Beach
You can hardly take a trip to Sydney without visiting its most iconic beach, Bondi. This coastal-cool hideaway is just moments from the water and offers an escape from the heat and energy it sits above, acting as the ultimate oasis for a beachside holiday.
Relax in style in their array of rooms to suit your needs. From single rooms to more serviced apartment styles, no matter the reason for your trip or length of stay, it makes the perfect homestead after a long day of sea breezes and saltwater.
202 Elizabeth
202/210 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
If it’s art deco elegance you’re after, this intimate hideaway in the middle of Surry Hills is one to try. This pet-friendly boutique hotel has just 38 rooms packed with all the amenities you could ever need and decor that will make your jaw drop. Relax in the suite of your choice or head to the rooftop for a glass of wine at sunset.
As much as you won’t want to, venture out of the hotel to explore the neighbourhood’s endless selection of bars, restaurants, and cafes, or take a short walk for a day at the Art Gallery of NSW or vintage shopping along Crown Street.
Hotel Steyne
75 The Corso, Manly
Don’t feel tied to just one side of the bridge; venture over to Manly’s shores for a stay at the historic Hotel Steyne. Overlooking the water, unwind in one of the hotel’s stunning heritage rooms. The venue has been a part of the Manly skyline since 1859 and has been exquisitely renovated to stay modern while keeping its old-school Aussie charm.
Browse the boutiques and shopfronts of Manly, grab a bite to eat at the Beach Bar & Bistro, or take a ferry to explore all that Sydney has to offer before resting your head and nodding off to dreamland.
LEAD IMAGE: Oxford House / Ace Hotel / Old Clare
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