This insider's city guide has been a long time in the making. We've eaten in countless Sydney restaurants, dined in the best local eateries and visited the latest hotspots. We've also asked the most discerning locals we know to share their favourite hangouts – whether brand new or classic institutions. We bring you our hand-picked selection of our favourite places in Sydney right now.

Whether you're looking for the ultimate luxury hotel, a cosy boutique hotel, or an ultra-cool design hotel, here is our pick of the best places to stay in Sydney.

Discover one of Sydney's most luxurious 5-star hotels with a prime waterfront location ...

If you’re looking for a 5-star hotel offering the ultimate in elegance and luxury, Sydney’s best landmarks right at your doorstep, a jaw-dropping view from your bedroom - including the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the Rocks - a luxurious spa and rooftop pool facilities, great local dining options and the most comfortable beds in Sydney, then look no further than the Park Hyatt Sydney. Built directly on the waterfront at Sydney’s Circular Quay, the hotel resides in a historic sandstone building with an understated contemporary design. Most of the 158 rooms have terraces which face the glittering harbour, with dazzling views of the Opera House and Sydney’s city skyline. The hotel also boasts fantastic restaurants, modern fitness and spa facilities and a scenic rooftop pool overlooking the Harbour Bridge. $$$

7 Hickson Road, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
sydney.park.hyatt.com  |  +61 2 9256 1234

One of Sydney’s most ultra-chic waterfront design hotels ...

The consummately stylish Ovolo Woolloomooloo is located in a modern retro-fit industrial wharf at Woolloomooloo marina overlooking Sydney Harbour, with interiors featuring original exposed beams, high ceilings and sultry low-lit public spaces. With great views overlooking the harbour, the hotel is within walking distance of Sydney’s major landmarks - including the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens - along with many trendy local dining and nightlife spots. The hotel’s indoor heated pool is a welcome bonus, along with several fantastic waterfront restaurants (including the jet-set Otto Italian Ristorante next door). $$$

6 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011
ovolohotels.com  |  +61 2 9331 9000

This modern Art Deco inspired hotel feels like no other five-star accommodation you’ve seen before ...

Ideally situated in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Primus Hotel has brought back to life Sydney’s stunning historic Water Board headquarters. Commissioned to revamp this iconic heritage building dating back to the 1930s, the design agency Woods Bagot achieved a clever mix of genres, embracing a contemporary design atmosphere whilst gracefully maintaining the existing Art Deco features. As you enter the lobby, your eyes will be immediately drawn towards the eight majestic crimson marble columns, transporting you into the building’s past glory. Along with the amazing guests-only rooftop swimming pool, one of the hotel’s highlights is without a doubt Executive Chef Ryan Hong’s Asian-inspired fusion cuisine at The Wilmot restaurant. $$$

339 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
primushotelsydney.com  |  +61 2 8027 8000

Enjoy a fun and relaxing stay in Sydney's lively Darling Harbour district ...

Occupying a 19th-century warehouse which once stored wool bales and other valuable exports, the Ovolo 1888 is established in Sydney’s historic Darling Harbour area, footsteps away from the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the lively neighbourhoods of The Rocks and Circular Quay. Boasting sleek and stylish modern features, the hotel masterfully retains its original historic identity and vintage feel. You’ll love the high ceilings, white-washed wooden beams, exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, with every room enlivened by Australian artist Jasper Knight’s bright and colourful Pop-style paintings. This is the perfect place for you to relax, work, and even socialise with fellow like-minded guests in a genuinely warm and homely atmosphere. $$

139 Murray Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
ovolohotels.com  |  +61 2 8586 1888

One of the favourite Sydney hotels of the international film, music and modelling set ...

Establishment Hotel is set within a stylish restored warehouse in the heart of Sydney’s inner city. This self-contained sanctuary of sophistication and hedonism is home to loft-style rooms which are modern and spacious, with Japanese-inspired minimalist interiors in either muted-blond or jet-black tones, and a peaceful zen-like ambience. Within the glamorous Establishment complex you will also find some of Sydney’s most exclusive dining and nightlife addresses, including the smash-hit Mr. Wong modern Chinese restaurant; Hemmesphere cocktail lounge; the ground floor Establishment bar for flirtatious party goers; exquisite Est. restaurant for award-winning modern Australian fine-dining; chic Sushi-e for high-end sushi; the cosy Palmer & Co. cocktail bar; and the intimate wine bar, Tank & Stream. In addition, the group's multi-level nightlife and dining emporium, The Ivy, is only minutes away which boasts a dizzying array of exclusive bars and trendy restaurants. This is definitely one of Sydney’s coolest places to stay. $$$

5 Bridge Lane, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
merivale.com.au  |  +61 2 9240 3100

Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s historic The Rocks district, this elegant hotel exudes a sense of old-world charm ...

With classical interiors, an underground heated pool, tennis courts and one of the best spa and health facilities in Sydney, The Langham Sydney is set within a beautiful sandstone Georgian mansion and features rooms and suites with heavenly king sized beds, plush bath gowns and divine toiletry products. Located in a quiet yet central location in Sydney's historic Rocks and central business district (CBD), The Langham is only a stone’s throw from the vibrant Sydney Harbour and the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. Don’t miss indulging in one of their sumptuous signature spa treatments, along with a relaxing swim in the beautiful underground heated swimming pool which is illuminated by thousands of tiny, sparkling lights. $$$

89-113 Kent Street, Millers Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
langhamhotels.com  |  +61 2 9256 2222

Expect the theatrical air of an adult's playground mixed with a historic location and a healthy dose of fun ...

Housed in two iconic buildings - the Gowings Department Store and the State Theatre - the QT Sydney's public spaces are a kaleidoscope of eye-popping features, ranging from the mismatched collection of beautiful armchairs to digital LED installations and stage spotlights. Oversized tubs, bowler-hat lampshades, vintage furniture, and a medley of board games also add to the hotel's irresistible flair. The QT team has also recently opened a second Sydney property, QT Bondi, which transports their quirky sense of fun to Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach. $$

QT Sydney: 49 Market Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
qthotelsandresorts.com  |  +61 2 8262 0000

QT Bondi: 6 Beach Road, Bondi, New South Wales 2026, Australia
qthotelsandresorts.com  |  +61 2 8362 3900

A vintage hub of contemporary luxury in Sydney’s creative Inner West area ...

One of Sydney’s hippest boutique hotels has claimed its territory in the artsy Inner West suburb of Chippendale. The Old Clare Hotel’s early 19th-century brick facades previously housed two iconic edifices now linked by an impressive glass atrium. The original heritage fixtures offer a stylish backdrop to this unique designer sanctuary. With two in-house upscale restaurants run by acclaimed chefs Clayton Wells and Jason Atherton, the Old Clare epitomises the very essence of contemporary luxury. Named after an indigenous Australian bird, the Old Clare Hotel is flapping its wings with style, at the forefront of one of Sydney’s hippest inner city districts. $$

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
theoldclarehotel.com.au  |  +61 2 8277 8277

You'll find a stylish home away from home at this award-winning apart-hotel ...

Nestled in Surry Hills, Sydney’s lively bohemian quarter, the ADGE Apartment Hotel is conveniently located minutes away from the heart of the city. Designed to match a modern 21st century lifestyle, the ADGE experience is all about combining truly excellent service with bold and original design features. As you walk in, notice how the cartoon-inspired graffiti mural brings a cheerful dash of fresh and vibrant colours to the lobby. Consistently praised for its unmatched value-for-money, this spacious luxury hotel has everything you need to make your stay as smooth, enthusiastic, and sophisticated as you want it to be!

222 Riley Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
adgehotel.com.au  |  +61 2 8093 9888

Whether you're looking for a fabulous waterfront restaurant, the city's best foodie gem, or a see-and-be-seen dining spot, here is our pick of the best places to eat in Sydney right now.

Chef Peter Gilmore's Quay Restaurant delivers a fine dining experience worth waiting for ...

Known for its sophisticated modern Australian cuisine and breathtaking views overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, Quay restaurant has received many accolades – including being voted one of the top 50 restaurants in the world for several years. Peter Gilmore is a chef obsessed with sourcing the freshest premium ingredients to inspire his menu, going so far as to set up his own farm to grow seasonal ingredients to his exacting specifications. Quay's highly professional service and award-winning wine list ensure this is a dining experience worth waiting for. Bookings essential. $$$

Overseas Passenger Terminal, Hickson Road, The Rocks NSW 2000
quay.com.au  |  +61 2 9251 5600

Mr. Wong is a glamorous haven of sumptuous modern Chinese cuisine ...

A low-lit sanctuary of antique woods and bare brick, Mr. Wong glitters with golden trinkets, funky retro touches and rich jade accents. In the kitchen, dim sum expert Eric Koh (formerly of London’s Hakkasan) works alongside renowned Sydney chef Dan Hong to craft an explosive menu of Cantonese flavours. Famous for its succulent mud crabs, Mr. Wong's menu features perfectly crispy Peking duck, five spice pork belly, and succulent salt and pepper lamb cutlets. Accompanied by an expertly curated wine list by sommelier Franck Moreau, choose from one of 100 rieslings or opt for one of the bar’s superbly mixed cocktails. Expect one of the city’s chicest foodie hangouts with a price tag to match. $$$

3 Bridge Lane, Sydney NSW 2000
merivale.com.au  |  +61 2 9240 3000

Porteño is a fun, casual and boisterous Argentinian-style steakhouse ...

Having quickly established itself as one of Sydney’s hottest casual dining spots, Porteño is the second venture of friendly tattoo-wearing, rock-star look-a-like Sydney chefs Ben Milgate and Elvis Abrahanowicz (of Bodega restaurant acclaim) which showcases wood-fired, Argentinian-inspired cuisine. Order copious amounts of their sharing-style plates, including the rich and hearty wood-fired Brussels sprouts; barbecued calamari legs wrapped around pickled green tomato with citrus and olive oil; or the cured kingfish ceviche with sweet potato crisps and tender and sweet corn. The main draw card, however, is the sumptuous menu of roasted meats which are cooked over an authentic asador (a traditional Argentine wood-fired oven), where crispy suckling pig and Suffolk lamb shin are prepared to perfection. Porteño is a meat-lovers dream and an unmissable dining experience in Sydney. $$

50 Holt Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
porteno.com.au  |  +61 2 8399 1440

Discover American chef David Chang's cult foodie dining spot in Sydney ...

Consistently ranked amongst the top restaurants in Australia, Momofuku Seiobo’s 35 seats mark some of the most coveted foodie dining spots in the city. The first of legendary American chef David Chang’s restaurants to open outside of New York, Momofuku Seibo blazed a trail across Sydney’s dining scene when it opened in 2011 and continues to turn heads since Chef Paul Carmichael took the helm in 2015. Take a ringside seat at the open kitchen to enjoy the full ten-course Momofuku effect, with Carmichael’s team delivering work-of-art plates to a rapt audience. Inspired by authentic Australian ingredients and the culinary heritage of his own international team, Carmichael’s inspired creations continue to earn the Momofuku hype. Advance reservations essential - book via Momofuku Seiobo’s website. $$$

The Star, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009
seiobo.momofuku.com  |  +61 2 9777 9000

One of Sydney's hottest openings in 2016 ...

Opening to sensational reviews in spring 2016, Restaurant Hubert has been hailed as one of Sydney’s hottest openings in recent memory. Restaurant Hubert continues to set the benchmark of Sydney's dining scene due to its crack team of creators, who already have smash hits such as Baxter Inn cocktail bar and Frankie’s under their belts. In the kitchen, top chef Daniel Pepperell has seduced the city with his corn-fed, free range fricasée chicken and his steak tartare and frites, served in one of the most seductive settings in the city. Head downstairs and discover Hubert's in-house speakeasy, complete with a stage and grand piano, creating a wood-panelled hideaway where candlelight flickers and cabaret-style tables are perennially packed. $$

15 Bligh Street, Sydney NSW 2000
restauranthubert.com  |  +61 2 9232 0881

The Sydney institution for modern Thai dining ...

Set within a minimalist warehouse space featuring sleek long communal tables and generous portions of delectable cuisine designed to be shared, Longrain delivers a menu boasting impeccably fresh ingredients and bursts of intense flavour, such as the crunchy eggnet salad with pork and prawn morsels; yellow duck curry with ginger-cucumber relish; and crispy skin Barossa chicken with spiced blood-plum sauce. The portions are generous so it’s best to go with a big group and share as many dishes as possible. Longrain’s happening lounge bar makes some of the best Asian-inspired cocktails in Sydney, and the expertly curated wine list also compliments the fresh Asian cuisine. Be aware that there is a strict no-booking policy, where you may have to wait an hour or more for a table as it’s usually packed. $$

85 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
longrain.com  |  +61 2 9280 2888

Enjoy garden-to-table dining at this popular alfresco Sydney restaurant-cafe ...

Taking fresh ingredients to the next level, a growing number of eco-conscious eateries are creating a true garden-to-table experience for Sydney’s foodies. At The Grounds of Alexandria, enjoy delicious seasonal cuisine in a cool, industrial-chic setting, where you'll be surrounded by a verdant edible garden. Guests can also visit the restaurant's resident animals, including chickens, sheep and pigs, making this a popular weekend hangout spot for families. $$

7A, 2 Huntley Street, Alexandria NSW 2015
thegrounds.com.au  |  +61 2 9699 2225

One of Sydney's coolest foodie cafes in Sydney's beachside Bronte neighbourhood ...

Nestled in the laid-back Bronte neighbourhood and only a short walk from Bronte beach, Three Blue Ducks has been the smash-hit success of Sydney's cafe scene since opening in 2010. Chef Darren Robertson creates fresh and innovative dishes featuring fresh ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s backyard garden. While the cafe's graffiti-plastered walls and relaxed open-frontage offer an ideal breakfast and mid-morning coffee spot, Robertson’s superbly crafted all-day menu could just as easily be found in the city’s trendiest gastronomic hotspots. Three Blue Ducks’ local ethos and unpretentious attitude have made reservations a coveted commodity. Stop by for a hearty breakfast, a healthy lunch or the delicious evening tasting menu served from Tuesdays to Sundays. $$

143 Macpherson Street, Bronte NSW 2024
threeblueducks.com  |  +61 2 9389 0010

An unforgettable fine dining experience hidden away in a picturesque riverfront setting ...

Occupying the same natural inlet since the 1920s, the stunning Berowra Waters Inn nestles on a picturesque riverbank in Sydney’s Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (around forty minutes north of Sydney). Peaceful, remote and romantic, this magical destination is reached by boat or seaplane, with intrepid foodies soon rewarded with stunning interiors by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Glenn Murcutt and a very special dining experience. Guests can make their own degustation menu composed of between four to six small, finely crafted dishes from a weekly changing selection of around a dozen savoury creations. The Berowra Waters Inn sources its produce fresh from vendors local to Sydney's Hawkesbury region, emphasising biodynamic and ‘green’ ingredients. This is the ideal venue for a special occasion or a romantic getaway. $$$

Public Wharves, Bay Road, Berowra Waters NSW 2082
berowrawatersinn.com  |  +61 2 9456 1027

A legendary Sydney gourmet haven ...

Enter the epicurian wonderland of the David Jones Food Hall in Sydney's Central Business District (CBD) and you'll be spoiled with an indulgent selection of top quality cheese, fruits, vegetables, pastries, meats, seafood and much more. Pick up some delicious food and head to the nearby Royal Botanic Garden to enjoy your own gourmet picnic in the Sydney sunshine. $

65-77 Market Street, Sydney NSW 2000
davidjones.com.au  |  +61 2 9266 5544 

Whether you're looking for the perfect cocktail, the city's best waterfront bar, or a late-night club, here is our pick of the best places to drink and party in Sydney right now.

Iconic Landmarks ...

No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House in Circular Quay. One of the most spectacular times to visit Sydney is during the New Year's Eve celebrations, when the harbour comes alive in a breathtaking display of fireworks. Also, don't miss seeing an opera, ballet or classical music performance at the Opera House for an unforgettable cultural experience. 

Sydney Taronga Zoo ...

See all of Australia's incredible animals and wildlife up-close at the world famous Taronga Zoo. With a stunning harbour-front views overlooking Sydney Harbour, this is a fantastic way to spend a few hours outdoors and to see many exotic native Australian animals, such as koalas, kangaroos and wombats. 

Sydney Harbour Sailing ...

No trip to Sydney is complete without experiencing Sydney Harbour by boat. Splash out and hire your own skippered yacht or powerboat to explore the beautiful secluded coves and bays, or join a chartered sailing trip with East Sail in Rushcutter’s Bay.

Scenic Seaplane Tour ...

The ultimate way to explore Sydney's spectacular landscape is from the air, where you can enjoy an unforgettable aerial tour of Sydney Harbour and the city's spectacular beaches and coastline with Sydney Seaplanes. For the ultimate experience, stop off for an indulgent gourmet lunch at Jonah’s at Whale Beach or at the divine Berowra Waters Inn. 

Best Spa Experience...

When you're ready to enjoy some serious pampering, head to the luxurious The Day Spa at the Langham Hotel which boasts a sumptuous menu of treatments, spa and fitness facilities, and a 20-meter indoor swimming pool.