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Bigger is not always better, which is certainly the case with Sydney’s top boutique hotels. Nestled in Heritage-listed buildings and former millionaire’s mansions, these small properties offer the comforts of home with kitchenettes, open-plan living areas and plush furnishings. Enjoy the range of luxurious touches, such as individually-designed rooms, in-room beauty treatments and rooftop terraces with city and harbour views.

With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve listed the top-rated boutique hotels in Sydney that boast the perfect combination of unique charm and superior service. Offering all the qualities of home, only lovelier and without all the work, these boutique hotels are the epitome of luxury living.

Sydney downtown, intersection people and traffic
Photo| Sydney downtown, intersection people and traffic| GETTYIMAGES – LEOPATRIZI

Establishment Hotel

Boasting an industrial facade, Establishment Hotel features contemporary interiors and designer rooms. The Establishment room is 50 square metres of luxury, where its queen-size bed and deep soaking tub are highlighted by light pastel decor. Meanwhile, the Penthouse features exposed beams and rustic details. All rooms are high-tech, offering iPads, Apple TV and a Bose sound system.

Start your morning with breakfast in The Garden, where towering bamboo and exposed brickwork surround an atrium-style glass ceiling. Treat yourself to modern Australian cuisine at est. restaurant and have a dirty martini at the speakeasy-style Morris and Sons bar to see flapper-costumed waitresses. Exploring outside is easy with its convenient location, as you’re only a 10-minute stroll from Circular Quay and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$277 – A$1,047
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 5 Bridge Lane, Sydney CBD, Sydney, Australia

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour, Boutique Hotels in Sydney
Photo| Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour is in a restored heritage building only a five-minute walk from the iconic Darling Harbour. For panoramic views of Sydney, stay in The Stirred room, which offers a spacious lounge area and rooftop patio with panoramic views of Sydney. The airy Lofts are adorned with bright pops of colour, while industrial elements create a rustic-chic vibe, with rooms featuring high ceilings, restored vintage furniture and flat-screen TVs.

Lo Lounge is a sleek multipurpose social area where you can dine on small, shareable plates. Its nightly Happy Hour also offers a great place to socialise or grab pre-dinner drinks. Travelling with the kids? Take a 15-minute walk to Hyde Park or go on a day trip to enjoy the white-sand shoreline of Bondi Beach, a 15-minute drive away.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$184 – A$617
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 139 Murray Street, Pyrmont, Sydney, Australia

Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney – MGallery

Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney - Mgallery, Popular Boutique Hotels
Photo| Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney – Mgallery| Provide by HARBOUR ROCKS HOTEL SYDNEY – MGALLERY
Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney - Mgallery
Photo| Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney – Mgallery| Provide by HARBOUR ROCKS HOTEL SYDNEY – MGALLERY

Set in the heart of the historic Rocks district, Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney – MGallery is just a 10-minute walk from the Sydney Opera House. This intimate hotel with only 59 rooms provides the perfect home away from home, especially in the luxurious Harbour View Suite with its king-size bed, open-plan lounge and dining area and a large rooftop terrace with stunning harbour views.

Dine at the on-site Scarlett Restaurant, where a contrast of modern fine dining and historic charm are pure luxury, with menu items such as Baked Scallops with Caviar, Prawn and Lobster Ravioli and Duck Assiette. Transformed from a once antique souvenir shop into a vintage-inspired French creperie, Creperie Suzette downstairs lets you indulge in crepes and coffee. You can also visit Eric’s Bar and sample boutique wines from around the world.

Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$206 – A$429
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 34 Harrington Street, The Rocks, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

Hotel Location

Eastern Suburbs coastline Sydney Australia
Photo| Eastern Suburbs coastline Sydney| GETTYIMAGES – HOLGS

Adge Apartments

Adge Apartments,Popular Boutique Hotels
Photo| Adge Apartments| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Only a 10-minute walk from Sydney’s city centre, Adge Apartment Hotel is located in the trendy suburb of Surry Hills. This boutique hotel boasts modern penthouse apartments adorned with bold designs and bright colour. Stay in the Two Bedroom Cityscape to enjoy an open-plan lounge and dining area, fully-equipped kitchen and large wrap-around balcony with city views.

Get ready for a night out with a haircut and style with Ziggy’s In-Room Hair Styling service in the privacy of your suite before indulging in Italian cuisine and tapas-style platters at the on-site Baccomatto Osteria Restaurant. Need some retail therapy? Just behind the hotel is Crown Street, known as Sydney’s premier area for both high-end and vintage fashion. Shop for souvenirs, then stop by Paramount Coffee Project for brunch and coffee.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$280 – A$479
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 222 Riley Street, Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Boutique Hotels in Sydney
Photo| Ovolo Woolloomooloo| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Housed in a 100-year-old building along Woolloomooloo Bay, Ovolo Woolloomooloo is a stylish property with a youthful ambience and contemporary decor. You’ll find a range of rooms varying in size, from a cosy Superoo to a spacious split-level Ultraroo, all boasting industrial furnishings, eclectic artwork, ultra-comfy beds and in-room technology, such as Apple TV and iPads.

Sitting next to the harbour is the Royal Botanic Garden, offering a tranquil oasis where you can observe colourful birds and stroll through the impressive manicured gardens. Grab pre-dinner drinks at the on-site Lo Lounge or indulge in your complimentary in-room mini bar before visiting China Doll next door, one of Sydney’s most sought-after restaurants, which offers inventive Asian cuisine and city skyline views.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$259 – A$520
Guest Rating: 9.0
Address: 6 Cowper, Woolloomooloo, Sydney, Australia

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel,
Photo| Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel| Provided by BOOKING.COM

A beautiful seaside oasis, Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is a two-minute walk from Watsons Bay Baths. Boasting a beachside-chic style with white-washed furniture and neutral tones, each of the 31 light-filled rooms and suites features king-size beds, marble bathrooms and large windows. For a wraparound balcony, stay in the Grand Harbour Suites, positioned on the hotel’s top-level corner.

Take advantage of the hotel’s bike rental service and upgrade to a picnic pack, which includes wine and appetisers for two. Take a 10-minute stroll to Camp Cove and snorkel in the turquoise waters, sip cocktails at sunset at the on-site Watsons Bay Hotel Beach Club Bar or hop on a ferry to reach the hive of activity at Circular Quay in 15 minutes.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$169 – A$431
Guest Rating: 9.0
Address: 1 Military Road, Watsons Bay, Sydney, Australia

Larmont Sydney by Lancemore

Larmont Sydney by Lancemore, Popular Boutique Hotels
Photo| Larmont Sydney by Lancemore| Provided by BOOKING.COM

An upscale boutique hotel located in Potts Point, Larmont Sydney by Lancemore is surrounded by beautiful Art Deco buildings and tree-lined streets. Featuring a modern bespoke design, the rooms are equipped with king-size beds, flat-screen TVs, iPads and private terraces. Offering the best of both worlds, the Signature Room has panoramic ocean and city skyline views.

Discover the fusion of flavours at The Hyde Restaurant, just across from the hotel’s lobby, where you can choose from a delightful menu of modern European cuisine. Looking for evening entertainment? You’re within walking distance from the nightlife in Kings Cross, where you can indulge in creative cocktails at Jangling Jacks or dance the night away at Cleo Ultra Lounge.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$102 – A$441
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 2-14 Kings Cross Road, Potts Point, Sydney, Australia

Manor Boutique Hotel Sydney

Manor Boutique Hotel Sydney
Photo| Manor Boutique Hotel Sydney| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Originally the residence of the Lord Mayor of Sydney in 1850, Manor House Boutique Hotel Sydney is a historically significant two-storey mansion featuring a collection of 17 individually decorated rooms. The ornate ceilings and antique furniture showcase the hotel’s old-world charm, while flat-screen TVs and a mini bar add a touch of modernity.

Start your morning off right with breakfast in the sunny atrium, where generous portions of bread, pastries and yoghurts fuel you for a day of sightseeing. Take a five-minute stroll to Oxford Street and pick up the latest fashion at eclectic shops like The Intersection, while pasta lovers can sample the famous truffle cream sauce and house-made tortellini at Pasta Emilia, just a few blocks away.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$154 – A$235
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 86 Flinders Street Paddington, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia

Quest Potts Point

Quest Potts Point, Popular Boutique Hotels
Photo| Quest Potts Point| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Home to 70 stylish apartment-style rooms, Quest Potts Point is set in an Art Deco building in the heart of Potts Point. Studio rooms are great for solo travellers with its kitchenettes, while the Two Bedroom Executive Apartment caters to families with a fridge, two ensuite bathrooms and separate desk. All guests have access to a rooftop terrace and alfresco barbecue area.

This hotel is popular with couples on HotelsCombined who rave about the superb dining found around the hotel, including numerous cool cafes and bars. Dine on Australian cuisine at Petrel or select from a range of Japanese fusion dishes at Crane Bar Sydney, both only a five-minute walk away. If you prefer a night in, take advantage of Quest’s pantry shopping service and have groceries delivered to your apartment.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$127 – A$532
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 15 Springfield Avenue, Potts Point, Sydney, Australia

Annam Serviced Apartments

Annam Serviced Apartments, Popular Boutique Hotels
Photo| Annam Serviced Apartments| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Just 700 metres from Rushcutters Bay Park, Annam Serviced Apartments boasts 20 modern apartments in Potts Point. Each of the serviced studio apartments features an open-plan living design, a fully-equipped kitchen and washer and dryer. For separate bedrooms and a living area with an enclosed sunroom, stay in one of the five Executive One Bedroom apartments.

Travelling with the kids? Take a 10-minute stroll to enjoy a day outdoors at the Botanical Gardens or Hyde Park, while Sydney’s CBD is only 15 minutes away by car. Watch a movie on your flat-screen TV and DVD player or walk five minutes to Kings Cross Railway Station to explore destinations further afield.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$96 – A$181
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 21 Ward Avenue, Potts Point, Sydney, Australia

Regents Court Apartments Sydney

Regents Court Apartments Sydney
Photo| Regents Court Apartments Sydney| Provided by BOOKING.COM

A 1926 Art Deco building with a unique character and charm, Regents Court Sydney is a luxurious boutique hotel favoured by the film and arty types. Its collection of 25 spacious self-contained studio apartments range from a Premium Studio to Top Floor Executive Apartment featuring kitchenettes, feather down European pillows and a dining area, each adorned with original brownstone art and stunning bay windows.

Head to the hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace to discover stunning skyline views, a perfect place to book a private party or enjoy an afternoon of barbecuing. You’ll find convenient perks for staying at this hotel, from complimentary gym access to in-house laundry facilities and a friendly Concierge to help organise your sightseeing.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$122 – A$465
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 18 Springfield Avenue, Potts Point, Sydney, Australia

Morgans Boutique Hotel

Morgans Boutique Hotel, Boutique Hotels in Sydney
Photo| Morgans Boutique Hotel| Provided by MORGANS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Located in Darlinghurst, Morgans Boutique Hotel is a 10-minute drive from Sydney’s city centre. Choose from a variety of 27 apartments, from a cosy Studio Suite to a luxurious One Bedroom Apartment. All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, refrigerators and a seating area, while the Deluxe Studio Apartment also includes a separate lounge area and private balcony.

Soak up the sunshine at the hotel’s spacious rooftop terrace, where you’ll find stunning sunset views over the eastern suburbs and Sydney Harbour. Indulge in the nightlife at Kings Cross, just a two-minute walk away, or take a train from Kings Cross to central Sydney and explore attractions such as the Queen Victoria Building, Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets and George Street’s shopping and dining.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$126 – A$198
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 304 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia

The Kirketon Hotel

Kirketon Hotel Sydney
Photo| Kirketon Hotel Sydney| Provided by BOOKING.COM

An art-inspired boutique hotel with Parisian influences, The Kirketon Hotel is within walking distance to some of the city’s hottest nightspots on Oxford Street. With ornate decor and a dark palette, the beautifully restored two-storey Heritage-listed building boasts 40 rooms. Splurge on the Executive Room for extra legroom, where king-size beds, plush furnishings, a rain shower and luxurious bathrobes ensure a comfortable stay.

Visit the speakeasy-style cocktail bar next to the hotel lobby, as the award-winning Eau de Vie offers a menu of creative libations and is one of the trendiest spots in the city. Behind the hotel’s mysterious red doors is Fu Manchu, an Asian dining institution that serves flavoursome curries and duck wraps and is adorned with traditional red lanterns.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$83 – A$555
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia

Hotel Location

Lavender bay of Sydney harbour
Photo| Lavender bay of Sydney harbour| SHUTTERSTOCK – TARAS VYSHNYA

Vulcan Hotel

Vulcan Hotel Sydney
Photo| Vulcan Hotel Sydney| Provided by BOOKING.COM

A blend of historic architecture and modern interiors, Vulcan Hotel is in an ideal location in Ultimo to explore the city, with Sydney Central Station only a 15-minute walk away. A family-owned boutique hotel, it features contemporary accommodation ranging from single and queen to superior and family rooms.

Couples can enjoy a private balcony with an open city view, spacious living room and a fully-equipped kitchen in the Studio, while the cosy King Single is perfect for solo travellers. Begin your day with breakfast at the stylish on-site Cafe Vulcan, a dining area where HotelsCombined guests rave about the delicious food, from homemade muesli to banana bread and vanilla pancakes.

Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: A$102 – A$314
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 500 Wattle Street, Ultimo, Sydney, Australia

Hotel Location

Enjoy the Extra-Luxurious Touches of a Boutique Hotel

These stylish boutique hotels are dressed to impress with their range of captivating qualities, where you’ll find colourful, artsy decor, on-site speakeasy bars and Heritage-listed settings.

Showcasing a range of full-service amenities, these stylish abodes are ranked the most popular on HotelsCombined due to their luxe elements and personalised services. With intimate harbour and city views from your room and easy access to Sydney’s trendiest neighbourhoods, you’ll have the best of both worlds at these boutique hotels.

Have you ever stayed in a boutique hotel in Sydney? Let us know in the comments below.

About the author

Charity De Souza Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I have been travelling with my battered backpack full-time for over a decade. My favourite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, wine tasting in Portugal, road tripping through Iceland, snorkelling in Indonesia and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

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