Image by Patty Jansen from Pix
Most visitors to Sydney can’t resist the glittering pull of the harbour for long, and if you’re staying in one of the best hotels on Sydney Harbour you won’t need to. This part of Sydney offers more than just the elegant sails of the Opera House, and the ‘coat hanger’ charm of the Harbour Bridge, the harbour runs along beside the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks (which was the first part of Sydney to be settled), and even Taronga Zoo, if you get on the ferry and travel. We have centred our recommendations around the Inner Harbour, within walking distance of many of Sydney’s major sights, and a ferry or train ride from most of the others.
For the best harbour views
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- Pier One, on Walsh Bay, is right by one of the pillars of the Harbour Bridge, a large and luxurious hotel with spectacular harbour views and slick, nautical decor.
- The Shangri-La Hotel towers over Sydney, offering magnificent views over the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour. A modern luxury classic, this is a the kind of large hotel to meet all your needs and more.
For Circular Quay
- The Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is a luxurious collection of self catering apartments right on Circular Quay. The fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities make this a perfect - and memorable - spot for families. There's a pool, gym, restaurant, bar and even childcare facilities.
- Sydney's Park Hyatt is a five star luxury classic in a fantastic spot at the end of Circular Quay beside the bridge and opposite the Opera House. As well as opulent decor and a range of room styles, the Park Hyatt has a heated rooftop pool and fully equipped gym and spa.
In Woolloomooloo
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- BLUE Sydney is a collection of rooms and loft-style suites just off the pier at Woolloomooloo. As well as being on the harbour, you're right by the Botanical Gardens, around the point from the Opera House surrounded by hip eateries and bars.
- Ovolo Woolloomooloo shares the location on the old Finger Wharf, but is larger, with 100 rooms in spacious proportions. Cool and contemporary this is a great spot.
For Watson’s Bay
- The Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel is right on the beach at Watson’s Bay and offers panoramic harbour views and a lively yacht club atmosphere. Each of the 31 rooms has a unique, beachside feel and the bar and restaurant are local hotspots.
Still not sure?