Sydney, Australia is easily one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. The bustling city is home to some 4.6 million people, the iconic Opera House, rows of yachts resting in the harbor and a plethora of new restaurants popping up each month. With autumn already in full swing, right now is a great time to visit Harbour City. From September to December, the weather is in the high 60s and mid-70s, and since it’s not peak season, you’ll also find fewer tourists crowding the streets. To make sure you are able to really take in the city's beautiful cityscape, here are seven five-star hotels offering picture-perfect views from your hotel room:
Swissôtel Sydney
Because Swissôtel sits in the center of Sydney’s business district, it offers prime views of the surrounding area including Hyde Park and the Sydney Tower. Plus, its location makes it easy for guests to visit the city’s best attractions such as the State Theatre, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The property boasts 369 guestrooms and suites, and to ensure that your room has a camera-worthy view, book one of the Signature Skyline suites on the top floor. The newly-built, 570-square-foot accommodations include a king bed, separate lounge and dining areas, a walk-in closet, complimentary internet and access to the Executive Club lounge.
Starting Rate: USD $286/night
Room Choice: Signature Skyline Suite
Park Hyatt Sydney
Seeing the harbor and the Opera House is as easy as opening your room’s blinds at Park Hyatt. Sitting in between the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the luxury hotel gives guests a front row seat to the city’s most iconic attractions. The 155 guestrooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows, some with private balconies, and contemporary interiors. Along with its accommodations, it also boasts a rooftop pool, 24-hour butler service, and spa. Be sure to book a dinner at The Dining Room, to continue the viewing party. The restaurant overlooks the harbor and serves local fare mixed with French influences.
Starting Rate: USD $737/night
Room Choice: Opera King
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Four Seasons hotels are synonymous with luxury, so of course you’d expect nothing less than great views at its properties. Thankfully, the brand’s Sydney location does not disappoint. Circular Quay (the city’s public transportation hub), the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Rocks—a shopping, dining and cultural center—are just a few minutes away on foot. All rooms overlook the city or harbor, but the Full Harbour View Junior Suites have some seriously killer panoramic views. The studio-style space includes a spacious lounge area, a king bed, marble bathroom and an executive business station.
Starting Rate: USD $349/night
Room Choice: Full Harbour View Junior Suite
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
If you’ve ever been to a Shangri-La property, you’re probably pretty familiar with their super chill vibes paired with Asian-influenced designs. In Sydney, the beautifully-decorated hotel also boasts stunning views from just about everywhere within the property. Whether you’re enjoying dinner at the 36th-floor Altitude restaurant or getting pampered at CHI spa, the Darling Harbour, Opera House and Harbour Bridge are all center stage for your viewing pleasure. Of its 565 guestrooms, all feature triple-glazed soundproof windows, contemporary furnishings and marble bathrooms.
Starting Rate: USD $332/night
Room Choice: Executive Grand Harbour View Suite
Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour
The nice thing about Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is that it offers apartment-style rooms, all with private balconies. So, you’re already guaranteed a prime Sydney view. Also, the spacious residences give you more of that home-away-from-home feel than the standard hotel room. The property boasts one- and two-bedroom accommodations ranging from 800 square feet to 1,076 square feet. Located at East Circular Quay, it is also only a few steps away from the Opera House and many of the city’s attractions. With a spa, heated lap pool, fully-equipped gym and a recreation deck featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, there’s also plenty to do within the hotel.
Starting Rate: USD $321/night
Room Choice: Two-Bedroom Harbour View Suite
InterContinental Sydney
Housed in a 19th century building, the InterContinental Sydney has one of the most expansive views of the city from its outdoor, wrap-around terrace. Of the hotel’s 509 guestrooms, the classic and executive rooms are a little smaller than we’d like, so it’s definitely worth it to book one of the larger 28 suites. The 1,130-square-foot Governor Suite looks out onto the harbor, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and includes an L-shaped living and dining area. To really get the best view of Harbour City, head up to Club InterContinental on the top floor, which turns into a lounge setting in the evenings. Sydney’s highest balcony bar is open to InterContinental members, hotel guests, and other guests by-invitation-only with access provided upon arrival.
Starting Rate: USD $300/night
Room Choice: The Governor Suite
The Langham Sydney
In 2014, The Langham underwent a $30 million renovation which resulted in a hotel becoming even more chic, stylish and uber luxurious. The redesigned guestrooms, dining areas, lobby and residential-style ballroom exude a distinct sophistication and classic elegance. Easily one of the best ways to enjoy the cityscape is by booking either the Grand Langham, Junior Suite or Langham Suite which includes access to the third-floor balcony and terrace. Aside from its impressive city views, the property is also known for having one of the coolest hotel pools. The 65-foot, heated pool sits under a painted nighttime sky and features stone columns and cushioned lounge chairs. With Parisian-style influences, handmade fixtures and décor, the Langham remains one of the most popular properties for elite travelers and notable figures.
Starting Rate: USD $620/night
Room Choice: Terrace Rooms
