Vibrant and bustling, the metropolis of Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia. Adventurous travelers will find numerous things to do as well as a significant amount of iconic attractions to see. It has so much going for it that it is sometimes mistaken as Australia’s capital. There are also many standout lodgings, so you can even plan a trip to check in to one of these places just for the experience. If this has you curious, read on for our list of the most unique hotels in Sydney, Australia.
Unique attractions to visit:
- Sydney Opera House isn't merely a good backdrop for photos - it's also a beloved venue for performances and conferences and has hosted famous personalities like Sting and Bob Dylan.
- For those fascinated by the unusual and macabre, don't miss the Museum of Human Disease. Located in the University of New South Wales Sydney, visitors can find an extensive collection of specimens of tissue and organs affected by various diseases. Part of the museum's mission is to help educate people on making better-informed decisions about their lifestyles and health.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on December 17, 2024.
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Your options at a glance
| Property | Unique Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Q Station | Historic quarantine station converted into a hotel | from USD 120 |
| Wildlife Retreat at Taronga | Rooms next to animal habitats | from USD 301 |
| Song Hotel Sydney | Themed rooms featuring famous feminist personalities and ideas | from USD 215 |
| View Sydney | Fun jungle-themed family room | from USD 161 |
| The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney | Special themed studios for gaming, retro, or romance | from USD 216 |
| SKYE Suites Sydney | Exteriors and interiors designed by award winning architect Koichi Takada | from USD 309 |
Why you should stay in a unique accommodation
Cultural immersion: Some accommodations are designed to provide a deep dive into local culture, offering authentic experiences like traditional meals, cultural performances, and local tours.
Connection to nature: Many unique accommodations provide a more secluded and peaceful environment than large hotels, perfect for relaxation. Options such as treehouses, cabins, and glamping sites bring you closer to nature, letting you fully appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Thematic experiences: From pirate-themed ships to medieval castles, unique accommodations can transport you to a different time or place, providing a fun and memorable experience.
Instagram-worthy moments: Many unique accommodations offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, staying somewhere distinctive enhances your travel story and makes your trip stand out.
How we choose the best unique accommodations
When selecting the best unique accommodations, we consider various factors to ensure that each recommendation aligns with the preferences and expectations of discerning travelers. Our criteria include:
Regional uniqueness: We prioritize accommodations that are rare or uncommon, offering something distinct that sets them apart from the typical hotel experience.
Architecture and design: We look for properties with unique structures, themed rooms, custom-made decor, artistic elements, or integration of local cultural influences that differentiate the property from typical buildings in the region.
Special experiences: We evaluate the unique experiences offered by the property, including bespoke services, exclusive dining options, as well as extraordinary amenities like underwater spas or private art galleries.
Exclusive location: We seek accommodations situated in unusual or extraordinary settings, such as remote, scenic, or culturally significant areas, providing guests with immersive cultural experiences and extraordinary views.
Overall value: We also evaluate each property’s accessibility, guest experiences, service quality, comfort, and overall quality relative to its price.
By considering these factors, we aim to recommend accommodations that offer an unforgettable stay.
1. Q Station (from USD 132)
What makes it unique?
- Historic legacy: Formerly the North Head Quarantine Station, established back in 1832
- Homey rooms: The accommodations are the modernized rooms and buildings of the historic quarantine station
- Educational escape: The hotel offers a selection of experience programs we think you should try, including ghost tours and wildlife tours
Potential trade-offs
- Despite modernizing, accommodations still lack airconditioning systems
- As a popular destination and hotel, noise and crowds may be an issue for guests
Insta-worthy corners
- Show off your trip with snapshots from the beautiful beach
- Take reels and clips of your accommodation or of Sydney Harbour from the hotel's wharf
Q Station
Address: 1 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly
2. Wildlife Retreat at Taronga (from USD 292)
Delicious buffet breakfast, upscale dining at Me-Gal, and stunning views from the restaurant.
High-end pricing with included zoo entry and tours.
Prime location in Sydney Harbor with stunning views and tranquil surroundings.
Modern rooms with wildlife views, private sanctuary tours, and easy access to the zoo.
What makes it unique?
- Posh zoo getaway: Luxurious themed rooms including ones next to animal enclosures
- Incredible vistas: Each room has a viewing area that opens up to views of the animal habitats, Sydney Harbour, or local bushland
- Inclusive experience: Guests can book stay packages that include zoo admission, buffet breakfasts, and Sanctuary tours
Potential trade-offs
- Despite soundproofing, guests reported still hearing noise from staff or from other rooms
- Can be quite pricey even for just a short stay
Insta-worthy corners
- Don't miss the chance to take selfies with the animals if they show up at your viewing area
- Take groufies while chilling at the N’Gurra Lounge, using Sydney as your backdrop
Wildlife Retreat at Taronga This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2a Bradleys Head Road
3. Song Hotel Sydney (from USD 245)
Delicious breakfast with a variety of options, good value for money at the on-site restaurant
Reasonable pricing for central location, with free breakfast included
Conveniently close to public transport, walking distance to major attractions like Hyde Park and Museum station
Clean and comfortable rooms, friendly and professional staff, ongoing renovations for improvement
What makes it unique?
- Stay for a cause: The hotel is run by YWCA Australia and uses the profit to support women and other related advocacies
- Themed accommodations: Special themed rooms represent important figures and ideas in Australia's fight for progressive values
- Excellent location: Situated in Sydney's Central Business District, the hotel is close to many attractions such as Hyde Park and the Sydney Opera House
Potential trade-offs
- I personally think the hotel is more on the pricier side, especially for the room sizes and amenities offered
- Customers have noted issues with the ensuite bathrooms due to size and design
Insta-worthy corners
- Take photos of downtown Sydney from the comfort of your own balcony
- Each themed room makes for an eye-catching backdrop for your selfies and profile pics
4. View Sydney (from USD 151)
What makes it unique?
- Stylish accommodations: Deluxe interiors and furnishing create a posh yet cozy atmosphere while also treating guests to views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline
- Kids get their own: The special Jungle Family Room provides children their own private space, filled with cushy bedding and toys as well as a big bright window
- Furbabies allowed: Dogs are also welcome with the Pooch Package, which includes specialized amenities such a teepee dog bed and their own feeding bowls and mat
Potential trade-offs
- Only has a gym, no swimming pool
- Parking is now only off-site and costs 40 AUD (26.84 USD)
Insta-worthy corners
- Take a candid family photo or video while playing with the kids in the jungle room
- The on-site restaurant has spots overlooking Sydney Harbour and the bridge
View Sydney This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 17 Blue Street, North Sydney
5. The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney (from USD 320)
Great buffet breakfast, excellent dining options, but limited gluten-free choices.
Rates start at $710 per night. Parking fee is $40 overnight. ATM charges $7 for withdrawals.
Conveniently located near Darling Harbour with easy access to light rail and city attractions.
Luxurious rooms, beautiful pool area, upgrade options, spacious 2-bedroom suites.
What makes it unique?
- Concept studios: Special themed studio units including a Cyberpunk theme for a group of gamer friends, and a Dark Romance theme for couples on a honeymoon or vacation
- Entertainment: Enjoy a relaxing swim at the indoor-outdoor pool, or watch the Aqua Graphic water curtain show at The Star Casino
- Fantastic location: Situated in Pyrmont Bay and close to attractions such as the Australian National Maritime Museum (8-min walk), and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo (16-min walk)
Potential trade-offs
- Issues with cleanliness and staff response times, partly because this is a large hotel
- No streaming or smart TVs despite being a luxury hotel
Insta-worthy corners
- The indoor-outdoor pool area has nice spots, including ones with Sydney Harbour as a backdrop
- The foyer at The Star Casino is a fantastic spot, and I would recommend timing your photos during the water curtain show
- You can also snap an artfully posed photo from your bathtub to establish vacation mode
The Star Grand Hotel and Residences Sydney This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
6. SKYE Suites Sydney (from USD 246)
What makes it unique?
- Eye-catching architecture: Designed by award-winning Koichi Takada Architects, the Arc cuts a handsome figure from the rest of the structures in Sydney's Central Business District
- Spacious suites: All accommodations are beautifully decorated units that are from 45 sqm (484.38 sqft) to 68 sqm (731.95 sqft) in size
- Immersive aesthetics: The hotel remains consistent with its Arc aesthetics, from the lobby to the swimming pool
Potential trade-offs
- Parking costs 85 AUD (57.03 USD) per day
- Some guests have raised issues about the noise they experienced
Insta-worthy corners
- I'd suggest capturing some glamourous shots while taking a dip in the "ice cave" designed swimming pool
- The rooftop has a well-designed lounge area with incredible views of Sydney
Sydney welcomes you with a smile
Sydney’s vibrant culture and incredible sights will make you want to take repeated trips just to experience everything. While you’re at it, you should make your stay even more memorable by booking one of these most unique places to stay in Sydney, Australia.
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