Sydney’s Central Business District is Australia’s oldest European settlement. Extending inland from Sydney Cove, where the first convict ships arrived in 1788, Sydney’s CBD is ground zero for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the frenetic life of Australia’s biggest city. The glass towers of the CBD house an array of 5-star hotels, perfect for business travellers who need to be right at the heart of the city’s commercial activity. Compact enough to walk around, the CBD is a shopper’s paradise, with a number of pedestrian-friendly shopping precincts such as Pitt Street Mall. Luxury hotels abound in Sydney’s CBD, along with the city’s main entertainment complexes and theatres. Eating out is part of Sydney life and the CBD’s restaurants cater for every taste imaginable. You can sip a cocktail 83 stories above the city in the Sydney Tower, have a long lunch at a waterside restaurant in Darling Harbour, or grab a cold beer in The Rocks. And if the jostle of the city becomes too much, you can wander down to Sydney Cove, framed by the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, and watch the Manly Ferry cut its way into Circular Quay.
199 George Street, Sydney CBD, 2000 Sydney, Australia
Rating: 9.1
In the heart of the Sydney CBD is the top-quality hotel, Four Seasons Sydney. It is only a short walk away from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks; the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The stylish guest rooms feature comfortable beds with premium linens, an office desk and bar fridge. Large windows allow for plenty of natural light and offer views of the city or harbour. The marble bathrooms have a bathtub, walk-in shower, and Christian Lacroix amenities. There is complimentary Wi-Fi and 24hr in-room dining.
At Mode Kitchen & Bar, diners can experience contemporary Australian cuisine in a relaxed yet refined setting. The cocktail bar, Grain, is a place where people can enjoy a craft spirit, local beer, fine wine or premium cocktail. From Wednesday to Sunday, Afternoon Tea is served on the Mezzanine, and The Cabana caters to guest who are relaxing poolside.
The hotel has a Fitness Centre fully equipped with weight and cardio machines, free weights, a locker room, sauna, and steam room. The heated outdoor pool is lined with sunbeds to relax in. For wellness, the staff at Endota spa are on hand to offer a range of spa treatments. Guests with premium rooms also have access to the exclusive, Lounge 32.
161 Sussex Street, Sydney CBD, 2000 Sydney, Australia
Rating: 8.4
A 5-star hotel, the Hyatt Regency Sydney sits on the eastern side of the Darling Harbour. It towers over the Sydney Zoo and Sydney Aquarium and is only a short walk away from premium shopping destinations, including King Street, Darling Quarter and Castlereagh Street. The Sydney Opera House and Art Gallery of NSW are less than 10-minutes away.
The well-appointed guest rooms are modern in design and have luxury amenities. Large windows offer stunning views of the harbour or city, and many grant access to a private balcony. Each room features a flatscreen tv, bar fridge, individual temperature controls and a spacious workspace. Guests also have access to complimentary internet access and in-room dining.
At Jackalberry, diners can enjoy a gourmet menu and unique cocktails that celebrate the diverse cuisines found around the world. High in the sky is Zephyr, a rooftop bar with spectacular views of Sydney, premium cocktails, and a light menu. Drawing from the history of Darling Harbour are Sailmaker and Dundee Arms. Sailmaker serves a refined menu of local seafood while Dundee Arms is a traditional pub, dating back to 1860.
The hotel has a fully equipped fitness centre with strength and cardio training equipment. For some, access to the Regency Club Lounge is granted which provides guests with a more premium experience.
300 Kent Street, Sydney CBD, 2000 Sydney, Australia
Rating: 9.0
For a sophisticated stay in an award-winning architectural building, look no further than Skye Suites Sydney. Located a few streets back from Darling Harbour, these self-contained apartments are surrounded by gourmet restaurants and are a short walk from the King and Castlereagh Street shopping precincts.
There are three types of guest suite, all of which include an open plan living area, dining spaces, laundry facilities and a kitchen. Large sliding doors open to a private balcony and the comfortable beds are fitted with premium linens. All suites feature a deluxe private bathroom, which is separate from the bedroom in the One- and Two-Bedroom suites. Guests have access to unlimited Wi-Fi and premium Kevin Murphy amenities.
Each guest suite has a cooking space that is fully equipped for creating gourmet meals. They are fitted with state-of-the-art SMEG appliances, including an induction cooktop, microwave, dishwasher, and bar fridge. For those that feel like eating out, the Skye Suites Sydney are conveniently located near the Skittle Lane dining precinct.
The indoor swimming pool and spa area are available to all guests and were designed to invoke the feeling of an ice cave. Overlooking the pool is a well-equipped gym with weight and cardio machines, perfect for a workout.
488 George Street, Sydney CBD, 2000 Sydney, Australia
Rating: 8.2
Centrally located, the Hilton Sydney is a luxurious haven from which you can explore the city. The surrounding area has a bustling nightlife with many boutique bars and restaurants. It is close to the Art Gallery of NSW, Botanic Garden and Sydney Opera House.
The modern guest rooms are well appointed and have tall windows that look out to the city. Each room has a custom-made Hilton Serenity Bed fitted with premium linens. The bathrooms feature a steam room style, roll-in shower for maximum relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests have access to in-room dining and internet.
At Glass Brasserie diners can enjoy fresh Australian cuisine and a selection of over 440 boutique wines. On the rooftop terrace is Zeta Bar, where craft spirits and creative cocktails can be enjoyed while looking out at Queen Victoria Building. Down below is the historic Marble Bar, a space for a drink, dance, and some live music. Meanwhile, Caffe Cino is there for a light meal or snack.
For their fitness needs, guests have access to Fitness First Pitt St. Platinum. It has a 25m lap pool and fully equipped gym. To cater for wellness needs, visit Alysium Day Spa or Pierre Haddad Salon, who have highly trained staff on hand offering a range of treatments.
176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney CBD, 2000 Sydney, Australia
Rating: 8.3
Wake up to breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Harbor Bridge or Darling Harbor each morning. You will be spoiled for choice at the Shangri-La Hotel, with a day spa, fitness center and indoor pool at your disposal.
The Shangri-la Sydney is located in the historic Rocks area, where Europeans first settled in Australia in 1788. This enviable location is just 5 minutes’ walk from both the Sydney Opera House and the MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art).
After a day of sightseeing, you can relax in the bathtub of your lavish marble bathroom. All rooms include free Wi-Fi and an iPod dock, as well as fluffy bathrobes and slippers.
CHI, The Spa offers a luxurious escape in its private spa suites, with a range of body treatments and massages on offer. The hotel also offers a hot tub, sauna and sun deck so you can make the most of your stay. The award-winning Altitude Restaurant features magnificent views of the harbor and the New York-inspired Blu Bar on 36 is the perfect spot for a creative cocktail.
Australia’s glittering metropolis, Sydney is well-known for its world-class museums, boutique galleries, high-end shopping, and picturesque parks. Get outside of your Sydney CBD luxury hotel to discover some of the finest landmarks in Sydney’s central business district.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sydney Opera House is one of the star tourist attractions in the city. You have several options for visiting this famous landmark in Sydney. Opt for a guided tour or purchase a ticket for a memorable opera performance. The building’s superior acoustics alone are well worth the hefty price tag. After the show, enjoy an eight-course menu at the Kitchen at Bennelong, one of Australia’s finest dining establishments.
Located just a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanical Garden is a real haven for nature lovers. Established in the 19th century, this place is actually the oldest botanic garden in Australia. See the Palace Rose Garden which houses nearly 2,000 roses and check out the Calyx, where you will find the largest vertical green wall in this part of the world.
You will find St. Mary’s Cathedral right between Hyde Park and the Domain. With its charming rose windows and elegant arches, it is one of the most beloved buildings in Sydney CBD. The interior of the cathedral is just as striking. Expect to see intricate stained-glass windows and sculptures. The best time to visit the cathedral is on Christmas when it’s adorned with lights and cute decorations.
If you wish to unwind and enjoy a range of spectacular body treatments, make a booking at the Langham’s Day Spa in Sydney. It is one of the most luxurious spa centres in the city. Our recommendation is to go for the Champagne & Gold Package which includes a massage and facial, deluxe mani-pedi, and a glass of Laurent-Perrier.
Culture vultures will want to leave their luxury hotel in Sydney CBD and visit the fabulous Australian National Maritime Museum. The venue is home to seven galleries that cover Australia’s maritime history. Visitors will have an opportunity to see many historic vessels including the full-scale replica of Captain James Cook’s Endeavor. Tickets include entrance to the Australian National Maritime Museum. You can also book a guided tour of the vessels moored outside the building.
To enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the beautiful harbour city, make your way to the iconic Sydney Tower Eye. Soaring above the Sydney skyline, this 309-meter-high tower is actually the tallest building in the city. Express lifts transfer visitors to the observation deck or to the alfresco glass floor platform called the SKYWALK. From the city’s golden beaches to the Blue Mountains that can be seen in the distance, you’ll be blown away by the views.
If you are visiting Sydney CBD with your children, head out to the Sea Life Aquarium. With three oceanaria that more than 12,000 animals call their home, it’s the largest indoor system of Australian marine life in the world. Discover 14 themed areas and see sharks, stingrays, seahorses, dugongs, turtles, Gentoo penguins, and jellyfish. You can also book a Shark Reef Snorkel or hop on a glass-bottom boat tour of the aquarium.
Shopaholics staying in a luxury hotel in Sydney CBD can look forward to visiting the world-famous Queen Victoria Building. Originally a market hall, this Romanesque-style building boasts ornamental cast-iron railings and numerous stained glass windows. Nowadays, it houses a five-story shopping centre with more than 200 high-end shops. In addition to world-renowned brands, you will also find local Aussie stores such as Heigh’s chocolates, Lorna Jane, and R.M. Williams.