Where To Stay In Sydney: The Best Luxury Hotels in The Rocks
Discover some sensational luxury hotels and the top places to stay in The Rocks! This is Sydney’s most historic neighbourhood and choosing to stay here is a great option for your trip. Walk to famous sights, like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, or just soak in this great area. Enjoy stunning rooms and remarkable harbour views. Let's get into it!
The hotels in the Rocks area are generally all pretty well located for a Sydney trip, being close to Sydney Harbour and the Bridge and Opera House. Majority of hotels in this area have harbour views in some rooms or common areas of the hotels. Whilst there are some cheap accommodation options and pub accommodation options, because of the location, even these are higher priced than other places to stay in Sydney. All this points towards luxury boutique and 5 star hotels.
Where is The Rocks?
The Best Luxury Hotels in The Rocks
Park Hyatt Sydney
Working in a 5-star hotel in Sydney I can say that amongst the guests that I spoke to that loved another hotel, Park Hyatt was that hotel that would regularly get mentioned. It has always had that aspect of exclusivity and luxury. That is reflected in the price, as one of Sydney's most expensive hotels. With so many amazing new hotels popping up or great refurbishments being done in recent years, the Park Hyatt Sydney is still very much in that top tier of luxury hotels in Sydney.
Park Hyatt Sydney sits right on the water’s edge of Sydney Harbour. Seemingly floating on its surface.
What else makes Park Hyatt Sydney special? The location does. Not only that, it offers a much more intimate view of the Opera House and Harbour as it isn’t tens of stories high. The low vantage can make you dream that you are on the water itself. If you want to stay in The Rocks and stay at a hotel overlooking the Opera House, this hotel will make for an unforgettable stay.
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
I know I just gave the much lower views at Park Hyatt a wrap but any trip to any city is not complete in my eyes without a high view, looking as far out as I can. Why not do this overlooking Sydney Harbour and all the icons, from the comfort of your hotel room at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.
Amazing location right at the boundaries of The Rocks, Circular Quay and the CBD. Even just walking by the driveway gives you the feeling of luxury. Recently renovated rooms make this an incredible place to stay in The Rocks.
Other perks include an outdoor pool and one-bedroom suites with breathtaking Opera House views.
Shangri-La Sydney
Another great hotel. Depending on the dates, it can be one of the best value 5-star hotels in The Rocks. I have had the privilege of staying at the Shang as some people call it. The room type I booked was a Horizon Sydney Harbour King with Club Lounge Access. The view does not get old that’s for sure.
I found myself having a hard time leaving the room at sunrise and sunset times. Waking up to full harbour views at some of Sydney’s best luxury hotels, such as the Shangri-La, is a memorable experience.
Like the Four Seasons, has high-floor views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
For me, any time I can stay in a room with a view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House is incredible. The sun going down, watching the ferries in and out of Circular Quay. The peak hour traffic on the bridge as the night lights begin to switch on. You get the feeling. The Shangri-La is not the only hotel you can stay in a room with a harbour view, but it does boast great harbour views, either from some of their rooms or from Altitude restaurant or Blu Bar.
Harbour Rock Hotel Sydney
An alternative place to stay in The Rocks apart from the bigger hotel names. Some parts of this hotel that stand out at a glance are the cosy guest lounge library, heritage and historic features and some calming outdoor areas to sit and relax.
The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney
Great option if you are looking for 5-star apartments in Sydney for holiday stays. Complete with kitchens and some with views of Sydney Harbour, take a look at the Sebel Quay West for one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection
Whilst technically in Walsh Bay it is only a stone's throw away. This boutique hotel whilst having recently had a style refresh, holds onto its heritage and maritime inspiration. This is a perfect choice for a waterfront hotel in Sydney.
With rooms not only with incredible views but so close to Sydney Harbour Bridge you feel like if you reached out you could touch it. From this pier, it almost looks to be part of the hotel!
If you are catching a show at the Sydney Theatre Company or heading to the Sydney Dance Company then this hotel is as close as it gets.
The Langham Sydney
Just as close to Barangaroo and Darling Harbour as it is to the Rocks, this hotel is still one of the best hotels to discover The Rocks.
This hotel entry itself makes you feel special before you even get through the doors. Note that the lobby inside makes you feel that all over again.
I am a returning guest of The Langham in Melbourne and also loved The Langham in Guangzhou. Both these hotels have truly been incredible stays. The attention to detail the Langham experience can provide is definitely memorable! I am sure The Langham Sydney would also deliver. One place I believe I will book for myself and my family on one of our next Sydney stays.
The Russell Hotel In The Rocks
Currently closed for renovations.
House and Apartment AccomModation In The Rocks Area
These are some more options. Entire homes, and private two and three-bedroom apartment options that are not in a hotel. Below are great houses and apartments on Booking.com that stood out to me. You can also check where to stay in The Rocks on Airbnb, to see some more alternatives to staying in hotels.
Spacious 4-Bed Family Terrace Home
Cosy living space and a nice sized patio. This is a great option for families or a group travelling together wanting more than hotel rooms.
Sydney WIND82D - Windmill at Dawes
With a minimum stay of 21 nights, 3 bedrooms and even a fireplace. This house is sure to be a great choice for groups or families on longer holidays or wanting a house for short-term stays in Sydney. The Rocks is a great place in Sydney to use as a base, and having at least three weeks, you're destined to get to know the place ;)
Terrace Boutique in the Heart of The Rocks
A spacious three-bedroom apartment in the rocks with 3 bedrooms. A great fit if you are after a clean, modern apartment to feel at home whilst on your Sydney trip. Maybe it's cooking up your breakfast the way you like it, or wanting your family to be under one roof, not through interconnecting doors.
Traditional 2-Bed Terrace House in Millers Point
A great terrace house near The Rocks if you a looking for a place with a work desk or an outdoor courtyard to sit in and soak in some fresh air.
Sanctuary at The Rocks
This holiday home has a blend of old and new. Stunning sandstone walls and interesting decor, as well as a modern kitchen and an outdoor deck in a great location in The Rocks.
High St 14A Self - Catering
Fabulous option with an outdoor patio and courtyard. Nicely decorated and looks to have some great details.
Some Tips For Your Stay In The Rocks
The Rocks Markets is a great thing to do in Sydney on the weekend.
Top Things To Do In The Rocks
For me, a visit to The Rocks is not complete without The Rocks Markets. Great food, interesting stalls with unique jewellery, and local artists selling their latest works. It's got a lot to offer, and all this with some tasty food stalls and live music! Weekends only.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is also worthy of a visit. Explore modern and contemporary art exhibitions in a stunning waterfront setting.
Where To Eat In The Rocks
One of the biggest names in Sydney Fine Dining, Quay Restaurant is in The Rocks. If you have your heart set on a dining experience here, best book in advance.
I love Fish At The Rocks and find myself thinking about the Whole Baked Barramundi from time to time.
Saké Restaurant is a great option for Japanese in The Rocks.
For coffee in The Rocks, The Fine Food Store is one place I like. That said, there are a handful of good-looking places I haven’t tried yet ;)
How Long To Stay In The Rocks
If you are using The Rocks to explore Sydney I would say 4 nights as a minimum. Sydney has a lot to do, it's just up to you. Things to consider are your bigger activities. Do you want to spend a day in Bondi, do the bridge climb or visit the Blue Mountains? Do you need to see as many sights as you can, or are you happy just taking it easy? Take a look at some great activities, tours and things to do in Sydney here.
Who Wrote This Article?
Hi, I’m Chris. I started Best Sydney Hotels to share recommendations on where to stay in Sydney because I love hotels. I love staying in them, I have loved working in them, and there is no trip to Sydney that can't be enhanced by choosing the perfect hotel for you.
But why listen to me?
Based on my experience living in Sydney.
Because of the countless nights staying at 5-star hotels in Sydney and across the world.
I have spent many years working in Boutique and Luxury hotels in Sydney.
Through our hotel, house and apartment recommendations, me and the team at Best Sydney Hotels can help you find the ultimate accommodation in Sydney.