Photo of Newcastle, NSW

About Newcastle, NSW

Set at the mouth of the Hunter River in New South Wales, Newcastle is the largest coal exporting harbour in the world. Two hours north of Sydney, the city is the gateway to the Hunter Valley Wine Country, and a lively arts and adventure destination in its own right. A number of great accommodation options have opened in response to the city’s growing popularity in recent years, and you can expect expansive river views, cracking cuisine and stacks of style from the best places to stay in Newcastle.

Stroll around the city centre to visit great galleries and boutiques. The Newcastle Art Gallery, housed in a brutalist building dating back to the 1970s, boasts a particularly impressive collection of exhibits. Don’t miss the Newcastle Museum, or catching a performance at the Civic Theatre. The annual Big Picture Fest, held each September, will delight fans of street art.

Outdoorsy travellers can head inland to follow hiking and cycling trails through the Blackbutt Reserve or the spectacular Hunter Wetlands National Park, which is also known for its brilliant bird watching. Join the surfer community on the waves at Newcastle Beach, amble along the coastal Bathers’ Way between Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach, and enjoy refreshing dips at Bogey Hole. 1880s-built Fort Scratchley is a popular whale watching spot in season. Speak to the teams at the best places to stay in Newcastle, NSW for top wildlife tours and wine tasting opportunities, too.

The Best Places to Stay in Newcastle, NSW

For City Style

  • QT Newcastle is a hip city hotel with trendy contemporary rooms and suites promising expansive Hunter River views. Spaces are decorated in warm reds and yellows, with glossy dark green bathrooms and big tubs. Savour craft cocktails and Japanese-inspired fare on the rooftop, and a menu of modern Australian dishes in the Jana restaurant.

FOR A PRIVATE HOUSE OR APARTMENT

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Newcastle Airport, 20 minutes from the city centre, or to Sydney International Airport, 2 hours and 15 minutes to the south. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
  • New South Wales is ideal for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Visit between January and March for plenty of sunshine — though be aware that this can be a busy time of year to travel. Avoid the Australian school holidays for great deals and quieter beaches if you can.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Newcastle, NSW

  • Little National Hotel Newcastle Newcastle, NSW (New South Wales) 181 rooms from AU$163

    City Style  -  A smart city stay, with slick, minimalist guest rooms just across the road from the Hunter River
    Value chic  -  A cool, contemporary spot offering stacks of style at great rates
    Sailing  -  Take sailing lessons or charter a boat from the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club for wonderful excursions out on the water
    Great walks  -  Follow hiking and cycling trails through the beautiful Blackbutt Reserve or the Hunter Wetlands National Park
    Air conditioningDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A collection of 181 compact guest rooms & one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes near the Hunter River in central Newcastle. Minimalist interiors are clad in white, cream & dusky pink tones, with monochrome photography & river views. The library-lounge is a great gathering spot for work & play. See More

    Check Availability
  • Crystalbrook Kingsley Newcastle, NSW (New South Wales) 130 rooms from AU$195

    Weddings  -  A wonderful wedding venue, perfect for romantic ceremonies, celebratory rooftop drinks & private dining experiences
    City Style  -  A hip contemporary hotel in the heart of the city, housed within a heritage building
    Restaurant  -  Enjoy modern Australian cuisine at rooftop Roundhouse, deli-style fare at relaxed Ms Mary, or romantic dining at Winter Lodge
    Birdwatching  -  Spot a plethora of birds on a ramble through the Blackbutt Reserve or the spectacular Hunter Wetlands National Park
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A stylish hotel in downtown Newcastle, housed in a striking former council administration building known as 'The Roundhouse'. Revamped interiors now feature swish guest rooms with bold pops of yellow, slick bathrooms & great harbour or city views. A rooftop bar & modern eateries add to the appeal. See More

    Check Availability
  • QT Newcastle Newcastle, NSW (New South Wales) 104 rooms from AU$410

    Surfing  -  Ride the waves with the local surf community at Newcastle Beach, within easy reach of the hotel
    Romantic Break  -  The hotel's four suites are stylish and romantic, with private balconies & sink-into bathtubs
    City Style  -  A hip city hotel with chic rooms & suites, plus two excellent restaurants
    Restaurant  -  Michelin-starred chef Massimo Speroni heads modern Australian restaurant Jana
    RestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A hip hotel facing the Hunter River in Newcastle, with trendy contemporary rooms & suites. Atmospheric spaces have red & yellow accents, glossy dark green bathrooms & private balconies. Craft cocktails & Japanese-inspired dishes await on the rooftop, with modern Australian fare in the restaurant. See More

    Check Availability