If you’re on a tight budget but want to spend some time in one of the city’s best locations, the Sydney Harbour YHA is your best bet. This buzzing hostel is located bang in the middle of The Rocks and features a rooftop with panoramic harbour and Sydney Opera House views. Grab a dorm room bed for as little as $32, or your own space for under $90.

Most locals know that The Mercantile, or The Merc, is one of Sydney’s best Irish pubs and pours a mean pint of Guinness. But many don’t know that there are comfortable rooms upstairs, perfect for a few nights' staycation. The rooms are full of character and are in a great central location from which to explore The Rocks and Sydney Harbour, and despite all that, they’re surprisingly affordable.

Keen to stay right in the heart of everything? Perhaps enjoy a rendezvous with friends in Sydney’s most historic precinct? Then book a room at Rendezvous Hotel in The Rocks. 

This comfortable hotel couldn’t be closer to all the good stuff Sydney has to offer - it’s just a short walk away from the CBD, the Opera House and most major tourist attractions in the city. Plus if you book the right room you’ll get a sun-soaked balcony with views of the harbour!

If you want to be central and you like your creature comforts then stay at Rydges Sydney Harbour. This gorgeous hotel is located one street back from the cruise ship terminal and offers mindblowing views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from its rooftop (which features a pool and a spa, by the way). Despite its central location and comfortable rooms, a few nights here won’t empty your wallet.

Sydney Harbour Bed & Breakfast gives guests the chance to stay a night in a fascinating piece of history. The B&B is inside one of the old brick mansion houses that was built by the NSW Government, in an effort to restore The Rocks area after it was barricaded and partially demolished to stop the spread of the plague. Today, it’s been fully restored and features antique furniture, cute little brick balconies and an excellent location in the heart of The Rocks.

Offering warm friendly service, central location, and 30 uniquely designed rooms, you can enjoy the elegant and comfortable accommodation at The Russell Boutique Hotel. If you're after a little bit of history, this building still retains the charm of its 1887 origins and is perfectly located a short stroll from gorgeous water views, the Museum of Contemporary Art and all the shops and restaurants in The Rocks.

Imagine sheets softer than silk. Sunny balconies with panoramic vistas of the harbour and Opera House. A bubble bath with a glass of red wine and a view of the Harbour Bridge. That and more are on offer at the Park Hyatt - one of Australia’s premier luxury hotels. If it’s a special occasion or you’ve just won Lotto, book the Sydney suite, a 350 sqm rooftop abode with a wrap around terrace overlooking the harbour and a lavish marble bath that’ll soak away your stress.

You’ve heard the name before and you know that Four Seasons means over the top, five star luxury. The Sydney joint is no different, featuring Instagrammable harbour views, cloud-like king beds, lavish interior design and an inhouse bar with Sydney’s largest collection of fine whiskeys. There’s also 24/7 in-room dining so you don’t have to leave that dreamy bed for your entire stay (we wouldn’t).

The Harbour Rocks Hotel by Sofitel is located inside Sydney’s most beautiful heritage building, built in 1887. At first it housed Sydney’s hospital, then a shopping centre, then an expansive art gallery, before finally being converted into a luxury hotel in 1987. Every inch of the hotel oozes character, from the exposed sandstone brick archways in the lobby to the original bay windows and fireplaces in the rooms. If you feel like treating yo’ self, book the Harbour View Suite, which features an expansive private terrace and a plush king-sized bed.

Shangri-La Sydney has unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. The contemporary hotel features 564 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites. Head to the Horizon Club on level 30 is Australia’s most sophisticated guest lounge. The finely-decorated space boasts soaring, 13 metre-high windows spanning four floors, and offers 270 degree views. Whilst, Altitude restaurant takes dining to new heights. Nowhere else in Sydney will you find an award-winning culinary experience with such extraordinary, all-encompassing views of Sydney Harbour’s glittering jewels. Need to unwind? Chi, The Spa is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil, urban oasis, drawing inspiration from ancient Asian healing and wellness philosophies to create a place of personal peace, enchantment and well-being.

If panoramic views, central locations and marble bathrooms are your thing, we’d recommend a stay at the Sebel Quay West suites. For the ultimate view go for the Deluxe Two King Bedroom Harbour View Apartment, which boasts one of Sydney’s best vistas of the harbour, the bridge and the Opera House. And the best part? These suites are ideal for longer stays with full in-room laundry and kitchen facilities.