The Best Hotels to Book in Surry Hills, Sydney

The Old Clare Hotel is one of the top places to stay in Surry Hills, Sydneys coolest neighbourhood
The Old Clare Hotel is one of the top places to stay in Surry Hills, Sydney's coolest neighbourhood | Courtesy of the Old Clare Hotel / Expedia
Sue White

Surry Hills has cemented its reputation as the coolest neighbourhood in the most populous city in Australia. This inner-Sydney suburb promises ample dining, drinking, shopping and people-watching opportunities – here are the top hotels in Surry Hills, all bookable with Culture Trip.

ADGE Apartments, for cool condos

Apartment, Hotel

Stylish loft apartment with leather seating, colourful striped carpet and balcony at ADGE Apartments, Surry Hills
Courtesy of ADGE Apartments / Expedia

ADGE is an apartment-style hotel that prides itself on its funky design and proximity to the world-famous restaurants and shops of Oxford Street. When it comes to hotels in Surry Hills, it has the advantage of independent living. Its one‒, two and three-bed self-contained suites all have living, dining and cooking areas. For a real treat, opt for one of two loft-style penthouses, both with balconies with stunning city views, each sleeping four in two bedrooms. You might say they’ve got the “adge” over the competition.

Zara Tower Hotel, for longer stays

Apartment

Industrial-chic living room with leather couch, hanging chair, jute rug and cement walls at Zara Tower Hotel, Surry Hills
Courtesy of Zara Tower Hotel / Expedia

This slick Surry Hills hotel is great for those staying in Sydney more than a couple of days. Opened in 2013, its variety of different sized rooms is helpful for catering to any size of party, from Sky Rooms (up to two people), Soho Suites (up to five) and Luxe Apartments (up to eight, in the glamorous three-bed penthouse). The slickly comfortable decor with all the mod cons is pitched just right for urban 20-somethings, who will enjoy being within walking distance of shops, restaurants and the CBD.

Vibe Hotel Sydney, for a central location

Chain Hotel

Chic lounge with graphic flower-print wallpaper, blue velvet chairs, leather sofas and parquet floors at Vibe Hotel Sydney
Courtesy of Vibe Hotel Sydney / Expedia

This chic property, in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, is a dream for exploring the city beyond. Hyde Park, Surry Hills and Chinatown are all close by, while there’s a choice of train stations to whisk you further afield. Back at the hotel, there’s a gym, swimming pool and restaurant, with 198 smart rooms decked out in slate grey, brass and splashes of mustard.

Little Albion Guest House, for four-legged friends

Boutique Hotel

Sliding glass door entrance to Little Albion Guest House with blue tiles at Little Albion Guest House, Surry Hills, Sydney
Courtesy of Little Albion Guest House / Expedia

Part of the Crystalwood Collection, a portfolio of luxury hotels where difference is celebrated, the pet-friendly Little Albion Guest House is easy to fall in love with. The Surry Hills hotel is set in a former convent, which means a dreamy combination of period features and contemporary finishes. Guests come here for the location and on-trend bespoke interiors, but they return for the extra touches, such as the rooftop terrace, the 24-hour honesty bar and the home-away-from-home experience.

57Hotel, for free and flaky pastries

Independent Hotel

Lounge space with dark leather seating, striped brown and tan carpeting and large windows to street at 57Hotel, Sydney
Courtesy of 57Hotel / Expedia

As all real estate agents know, location is king, and that’s one of 57Hotel’s main draws: it’s less than a five-minute walk from Central Station. While the trains aren’t far, you’ll be unlikely to need them. It’s a short (hilly) stroll to the hub of Surry Hills, and while en route, you should wander along Crown Street with its many small cafes. Heading farther afield? Within 15 minutes, you’ll be in the centre of the CBD. Don’t forget to grab one of the free pastries on your way out to explore – they’re excellent.

The Ultimo, for a spiritual stay

Boutique Hotel

Brick exterior of corner building housing the Ultimo in Haymarket, Sydney on a sunny day
Courtesy of the Ultimo / Expedia

With rooms ranging in size from single to triple, the Ultimo fits the bill for solo travellers and groups alike. They are characterised by monochromatic decor and exposed brick walls, and they come with all the amenities needed for a hassle-free stay without overcomplicating things. These include tea and coffee facilities, mini bars and private en-suite bathrooms. Astrology fans will be right at home here, too; the hotel curates experiences based on your star sign, and there’s even an in-house astrologer to guide you through your stay.

Rydges Sydney Central, for a tried-and-trusted hotel

Hotel

Rooftop lounge space with grey chairs around cocktail tables and panoramic skyline views at Rydges Sydney Central
Courtesy of Rydges Sydney Central / Expedia

If you’re looking for a trusted brand in a great location, Rydges Sydney Central is a good bet. The wide range of rooms means there are options for everyone, from business types after an executive suite to families or groups of friends looking for a room with a balcony. The undercover parking isn’t cheap but, given the location, it can be worth it. There’s also an indoor pool – the perfect place to relax after a hard day’s shopping at the many boutiques in Surry Hills.

Veriu Central, for big city vibes

Chain Hotel

Hip lounge with varied designer velvet seating, marble tables, bar area and stylish light fixtures at Veriu Central
Courtesy of Veriu Central / Expedia

Veriu Central, on Wentworth Avenue, feels more like a CBD option than a hidden Surry Hills treasure. Don’t let this put you off, though. Its proximity to Central Station makes this hotel undeniably convenient (and surprisingly quiet). The rooms are on the small side, but the facilities are great, and if you need a bit more space to hang out, you can just head to the hotel’s stylish bar area.

The Old Clare Hotel, for thoughtful touches

Independent Hotel, Boutique Hotel

Upscale covered deck area with grey-cushioned seating and potted palms at the Old Clare Hotel, Chippendale, Sydney
Courtesy of the Old Clare Hotel / Expedia

Though not strictly in Surry Hills (it’s just a short walk away in Chippendale), the Old Clare Hotel wins hearts for its stylish vintage designer touches. Rooms are all about exposed brick, wood panelling and pops of colour, while bathrooms come with walk-in showers or deep-soaking tubs – a welcome retreat after a day of sightseeing. Even the outside of the property is of interest: the Old Clare stretches across two iconic heritage-listed buildings.

Want to stay in Sydney in style? See the best luxury hotels in Sydney and book with Culture Trip.

speech icon man in bubble

Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
speech icon man in bubble
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

Molly Codyre, Siobhan Grogan, and Sarah Warwick contributed additional reporting to this article.

culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

X

Holiday Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

Edit article