Wondering where to stay in Sydney without a car? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas to stay in Sydney without a car and the best hotels in Sydney without a car for all budgets.
Sydney is the capital city of New South Wales, and it’s one of the country’s largest and most well-known cities. It is situated on the southeastern coast of Australia, along the Tasman Sea.
Sydney is famous for its iconic Sydney Opera House, an architectural masterpiece, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which offers stunning views of the harbor and the city.
The city is also known for its beautiful sandy beaches, such as Bondi Beach, Manly Beach, and Coogee Beach, which are popular destinations for both locals and tourists.
It’s definitely possible to get around Sydney without a car. The city offers a variety of public transportation options that make it easy to navigate without relying on a personal vehicle.
Sydney has an extensive train network operated by Sydney Trains. It connects various parts of the city and suburbs, making it a convenient option for both commuting and exploring.
The city’s bus network covers areas that aren’t serviced by trains. Buses are a good way to reach neighborhoods and attractions that might not be directly accessible by rail.
Sydney is known for its iconic harbor, and ferries are an enjoyable way to travel between different parts of the city while taking in the stunning views. The Sydney Ferries network connects major points around Sydney Harbor.
The Sydney Light Rail connects the central business district (CBD) with the inner-western suburbs, providing an efficient way to travel between these areas.
The city has dedicated bike lanes and shared paths. You can rent a bike or use a bike-sharing service and explore the city at your own pace.
Walking is a great way to explore neighborhoods up close and discover hidden gems as this is a pedestrian-friendly city, especially in popular areas like the CBD, Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, and Bondi Beach.
You can also use ridesharing services like Uber, Didi, and taxis to get around. They can be expensive but they are a great way to travel if you are with a group of friends.
The Opal Card is a contactless smart card used for accessing public transportation in Sydney. It can be used on trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. It offers discounted fares and a daily fare cap, making it a cost-effective way to travel.
Depending on your stay and travel plans, you might consider getting a MyMulti or MyPass tourist pass, which provides unlimited travel on public transportation within certain zones and time periods.
To get from Sydney Airport to the Central Business District (CBD), you can take the Airport Link train from the train station located directly beneath the terminals. Trains run frequently, and the journey to the CBD takes around 13-15 minutes.
Overall, Sydney’s public transportation system is well-developed, making it entirely feasible to get around the city without a car. You’ll find plenty of options to explore Sydney’s attractions, neighborhoods, and cultural hotspots using public transit.
Where to stay in Sydney without a car?
The best areas to stay in Sydney without a car are Sydney CBD, Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Potts Point, Kings Cross, Surry Hills, Bondi Beach, and Manly. These areas are well-connected by public transport and offer a range of attractions within walking distance.
If you want to be in the heart of the city and close to major attractions, the CBD, Circular Quay, or Darling Harbour might be best. The CBD has a wider range of accommodations for all budget travelers, while Circular Quay and Darling Harbour offer more luxury options.
If you’re looking for a beach experience, Bondi Beach or Manly are great choices. For a more local and artistic vibe, consider areas like Surry Hills and Potts Point.
When looking for accommodation, consider staying near major transportation hubs like Circular Quay and Town Hall, which will make it easy to get around using trains, buses, and ferries.
Additionally, check for accommodations that are within walking distance of the attractions you’re interested in, as this will save you time and transportation costs.
Overviews of best neighborhoods in Sydney without a car
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Sydney without a car:
| Sydney CBD | Is the heart of the city, offering easy access to major attractions like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour. The CBD is well-connected by trains, buses, and ferries, making it convenient to explore the city. |
| Darling Harbour | is known for its entertainment options, waterfront dining, and attractions like SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. It’s a great location for families and those interested in a lively atmosphere. |
| Circular Quay | Known as a major transportation hub, Circular Quay is where you’ll find ferries to destinations like Manly and Taronga Zoo. It’s also very close to the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden. |
| The Rocks | Is a historic area adjacent to the CBD and offers a mix of charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and markets. It’s also close to Circular Quay, where you can catch ferries to various parts of Sydney. |
| Potts Point and Kings Cross | are just a short distance from the CBD and offer a mix of dining options and boutique shopping. They’re also well-connected by public transportation. |
| Surry Hills | A trendy neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. It’s a short distance from the CBD and offers a unique, artsy atmosphere. |
| Bondi Beach | If you’re interested in the beach lifestyle, Bondi Beach is a popular choice. While not right in the CBD, it’s well-connected by buses and offers a stunning beach, coastal walks, and a vibrant cafe culture. |
| Manly | Located across the harbor from the CBD, Manly is accessible by ferry and offers a relaxed beach atmosphere with a range of water activities and coastal walks. |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Sydney without a car:
8 Best areas to stay in Sydney without a car:
1. Sydney CBD (Central Business District)
Sydney CBD is the best area to stay in Sydney without a car, especially for travelers visiting the city for the first time due to its central location, proximity to major attractions, and excellent connections to public transportation.
The CBD is the heart of Sydney and offers a wide range of attractions, dining options, shopping centers, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues, all within walking distance or easily accessible by public transportation.
The CBD is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with many streets closed off to vehicles, making it a pleasant place for walking and exploring.
Additionally, The CBD is very well-connected by trains, buses, ferries, and light rails, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city and beyond using public transport.
Many of Sydney’s top attractions are located in or near the CBD, such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, and numerous museums and galleries.
The CBD is home to various cultural institutions, including the Museum of Sydney, Art Gallery of New South Wales, and State Library of New South Wales.
The CBD offers a diverse range of dining options, from street food to fine dining. There are also plenty of theaters, cinemas, bars, and clubs for entertainment.
Sydney CBD is a shopping paradise, featuring famous shopping precincts like Pitt Street Mall and luxury shopping centers like Westfield Sydney.
There is a wide range of accommodation options in the CBD, catering to different budgets and preferences, including hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments. Many hotels offer stunning views of the Sydney Harbour, creating a unique and picturesque setting.
While the Sydney CBD is an excellent choice for those who prefer not to use a car, it’s important to note that it can be relatively expensive to stay there compared to some other areas of the city.
Additionally, if you plan to explore areas outside the CBD, such as the beaches or national parks, you can still easily do so using public transportation or ridesharing services like Uber or taxis.
Best places to stay in Sydney CBD without a car:
Luxury ($$$): Meriton Suites Sussex Street, 5-star hotel, one of the best hotels in stay in in Sydney CBD without a car as it is surrounded by some of Sydney’s most popular tourist attractions and iconic landmarks such as Hyde Park, QVB shopping mall, Barangaroo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and Cockle Bay Wharf.
Mid-range ($$): Rydges World Square, 4-star family-friendly hotel, perfectly located in the heart of Sydney CBD, next to the World Square Shopping Centre, a short walk from Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Easy access buses, light rails, and trains.
Budget ($): YEHS Hotel Sydney CBD, affordable hotel, one of the best places to stay in Sydney without a car on a budget. Located in central Sydney it offers easy access to iconic attractions such as the Opera House, The Rocks, Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay. Also a short stroll to a variety of bars, restaurants and shopping outlets.
MORE BEST HOTEL DEALS IN SYDNEY CBD2. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is often considered one of the best places to stay in Sydney without a car. It’s a highly popular and vibrant waterfront precinct located in the heart of the city, offering a variety of attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping options within walking distance.
Darling Harbour is situated in the southern part of the Sydney CBD. The main waterfront area of Darling Harbour stretches along the western edge of the CBD, bordered by Pyrmont and Ultimo.
Darling Harbour is close to many important attractions, including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks, and various museums and galleries. This means you can easily explore these places on foot or by using public transportation.
Darling Harbour is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained walkways and promenades that allow you to explore the area on foot.
The area is also well-connected with public transportation options, making it easy to move around the city without a car. The Darling Harbour ferry terminal provides access to different parts of Sydney via water transport.
Darling Harbour offers a range of entertainment options such as the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds, and the Australian National Maritime Museum. Additionally, there are often events and performances happening in the area.
There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries around Darling Harbour, catering to various tastes and budgets. The Harbourside Shopping Centre is also located here, offering a mix of shops for fashion, souvenirs, and more.
The waterfront location provides stunning views of the harbor and the city skyline, creating a pleasant environment for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Due to its popularity and prime location, accommodation and dining options in Darling Harbour might be more expensive compared to some other areas in Sydney.
While Darling Harbour is a great choice for those without a car, it’s worth noting that Sydney’s public transportation system is generally well-developed and efficient, making it feasible to stay in various other areas of the city as well.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Darling Harbour without a car:
Luxury ($$$): Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, 5-star popular hotel in Sydney, featuring a rooftop infinity pool and state-of-the-art fitness center. Within walking distance to major attractions and easy access to tram stations.
Mid-range ($$): Aiden by Best Western @ Darling Harbour, 4-star hotel, conveniently located in central Sydney, offering an à la carte breakfast, 24-hour front desk and a tour desk. Short distance to the National Maritime Museum, Star Event Centre and International Convention Centre Sydney.
Budget ($): Megaboom City Hotel, great accommodation, located within walking distance from Darling Harbor, Queen Victoria Building, as well as only 2 minutes’ walk to the Town Hall train and bus station and 5 minutes’ walk from Wynyard Station.
MORE BEST HOTEL DEALS IN DARLING HARBOUR3. Circular Quay
Circular Quay is one of the best areas to stay in Sydney, especially if you don’t have a car. It’s a central and vibrant location that offers a mix of cultural, dining, and transportation options.
Circular Quay is located right at the heart of Sydney’s CBD, making it convenient to access many of the city’s top attractions, shopping districts, and entertainment venues.
Circular Quay is a major transportation hub in Sydney, offering easy access to trains, buses, and ferries. This makes it simple to explore various parts of the city without needing a car.
Circular Quay is a major ferry terminal, and taking a ferry ride from here gives you the chance to explore the harbor and reach destinations like Manly or Taronga Zoo.
The area offers breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Many accommodations offer stunning views, and you can enjoy these landmarks by simply walking around the area.
You’ll be close to some of Sydney’s most famous cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks historic area, and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Circular Quay boasts a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering various cuisines and dining experiences. There’s also often street entertainment and cultural events happening in the area.
Due to its prime location and popularity among tourists, accommodation in Circular Quay can be relatively expensive. You might need to allocate a higher budget for your stay.
While you don’t have a car, if you were to rent one or have guests arriving by car, parking can be limited and expensive in this area. Being a major tourist hub, Circular Quay can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Overall, Circular Quay is a fantastic choice for those who want to experience the heart of Sydney’s cultural and transportation hub without relying on a car. The easy access to public transportation, iconic landmarks, and entertainment options makes it a convenient place to stay.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Circular Quay without a car:
Luxury ($$$): Sir Stamford Circular Quay, 5-star hotel, conveniently located within a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House, featuring a sundeck with the views of Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay. Its restaurant and bar have views of Royal Botanic Gardens.
Luxury ($$$): Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Circular Quay and is a short walk to Opera House and The Rocks. It has views of the harbor and Royal Botanic Gardens. Easy access express train to the airport and ferries to Manly, Luna Park and Taronga Zoo.
Luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, 5-star hotel, one of the best hotels in Sydney, ideal base for first-timers, solo travelers, couples, and families. It offers views of Sydney Harbour, featuring a bar, restaurant, fitness center and swimming pool.
MORE BEST HOTEL DEALS IN CIRCULAR QUAY4. The Rocks
The Rocks is one of the most iconic and historic areas to stay in Sydney, and it is a great choice for travelers who prefer not to use a car.
The Rocks is a historic area located in the city center of Sydney, at the southern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and extends towards Circular Quay. The area is adjacent to CBD and is known for its historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere.
The Rocks is located near many of Sydney’s major attractions, such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, and Darling Harbour. You can easily walk to these destinations.
The Rocks area is very well-connected by public transportation. Circular Quay is a major transportation hub where you can catch trains, buses, ferries, and even cruise ships.
Since many of Sydney’s main attractions are within walking distance, you won’t need a car to explore the city center. This can save you money on transportation and parking fees.
The Rocks offers a variety of shops, markets, cafes, and restaurants, allowing you to experience a diverse range of cuisine and shopping options.
Depending on where you stay, you might have stunning views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
The Rocks is a popular tourist destination, so it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. This might lead to increased noise levels.
Accommodation in The Rocks can be relatively expensive due to its prime location and historical significance. It might not be the most budget-friendly option.
In summary, staying in The Rocks is a fantastic experience, especially if you want to immerse yourself in Sydney’s history and be close to major attractions. But, the limited parking, potential crowds, and higher costs might be some factors to consider when making your decision.
Best places to stay in Sydney in The Rocks without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Sydney Harbour YHA
- Luxury ($$$): Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection
- Mid-range ($$): The Tank Stream Sydney
5. Potts Point and Kings Cross
Both Potts Point and Kings Cross are popular neighboring suburbs near Sydney CBD. They’re known for their vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options, and proximity to attractions.
Potts Point is a stylish and affluent neighborhood located on a peninsula that juts into Sydney Harbour. Potts Point is bordered by Woolloomooloo to the west, Elizabeth Bay to the north, and Rushcutters Bay to the east.
Potts Point is known for its mix of historic and modern architecture, as well as its vibrant dining and entertainment scene.
Kings Cross, often referred to simply as “The Cross,” is located immediately to the east of Potts Point. It is a lively area known for its nightlife, entertainment venues, and bustling atmosphere.
In terms of being car-free, both Potts Point and Kings Cross are well-served by public transportation, which makes it convenient to explore the city. The choice between these neighborhoods depends on your preferences.
If you enjoy a mix of urban living with cafes and restaurants, Potts Point might be a better choice. If you’re looking for a more nightlife-oriented experience, Kings Cross could be more suitable.
Best places to stay in Potts Point and Kings Cross without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Ovolo Woolloomooloo
- Mid-range ($$): Macleay Hotel
- Budget ($): Cozy M Hotel
6. Surry Hills
Surry Hills is one of the popular and vibrant neighborhoods in Sydney without a car. It is situated close to the heart of Sydney, making it convenient for accessing many attractions, restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues.
Surry Hills is located immediately to the south-east of the Sydney CBD. The suburb is bordered by well-known neighborhoods like Darlinghurst, Redfern, and Paddington. It’s a highly sought-after area due to its central location and vibrant atmosphere.
Surry Hills is well-connected by public transportation, right next to the Central Station, transport hub of the city. Buses and trains are readily available, allowing you to easily travel around Sydney and to other major areas.
Many amenities, shops, and entertainment options are within walking distance. This is great for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
Surry Hills is known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering diverse culinary options.
If you were to bring a car or rent one, parking in Surry Hills can be quite challenging and expensive due to limited street parking and the high demand for it.
Being a lively and bustling area, Surry Hills can sometimes be noisy, especially during weekends and evenings. This might be a concern for light sleepers.
Overall, Surry Hills’ central location and the availability of amenities and public transportation options make it a popular choice for both tourists and locals who prefer not to rely on a car during their stay in Sydney.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Surry Hills without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Crystalbrook Albion
- Mid-range ($$): Rydges Sydney Central
- Budget ($): Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Surry Hills
7. Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is a great area to stay in Sydney without a car if you’re drawn to the beach lifestyle, vibrant atmosphere, and the convenience of public transportation. Bondi Beach is about 7 kilometers east of the Sydney CBD.
Bondi Beach offers a relaxed and beachy atmosphere. You’ll have easy access to the beach for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
The area is relatively walkable, and you can find most of what you need within a short distance, including groceries, pharmacies, and other daily necessities.
Bondi Beach is relatively well-connected to public transportation, including buses that can take you to the city center and other parts of Sydney. This can be convenient if you plan to explore the city without a car.
While public transportation is available, it’s important to note that reliability and frequency of buses might vary, and you might need to plan your trips accordingly.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Bondi Beach without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): QT Bondi
- Mid-range ($$): Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach Sydney
- Budget ($): Hotel Bondi
8. Manly
Manly is a great area to stay in Sydney without a car if you’re drawn to a beach lifestyle, love the convenience of the ferry, and are comfortable relying on public transport.
Manly is a popular beachside suburb located in the northern part of Sydney. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning ocean views.
Manly offers a relaxed and beach-oriented lifestyle. You’ll have easy access to the iconic Manly Beach and its surrounding areas, which is great for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and coastal walks.
One of the major highlights is the Manly Ferry, which connects Manly to Circular Quay in the heart of Sydney. The ferry ride itself is scenic and offers stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Manly has plenty to offer. Aside from beach activities, you can go hiking, biking, and explore nearby national parks.
Best places to stay in Sydney in Manly without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection
- Mid-range ($$): Quest Manly
- Budget ($): Manly Paradise Motel & Apartments
You can continue reading about Sydney and other cities in Australia in these articles:
- Best areas to stay in Sydney first time
- Best places to stay in Sydney with kids
- Best areas to stay in Canberra for first time
- Best places to stay in Blue Mountains
Summary – Where is the best place to stay in Sydney without a car?
In conclusion, Sydney CBD, Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Potts Point, Kings Cross, Surry Hills, Bondi Beach, and Manly are the best places to stay in Sydney without a car. Each area has its own unique vibe and advantages, so the best area for you depends on your interests.
If you want to be in the heart of the city and closer to major attractions, Sydney CBD, Darling Harbour, and Circular Quay are excellent choices.
If you prefer a more local and artistic atmosphere, areas like Potts Point, Kings Cross, and Surry Hills might be more appealing. For a beach experience, Bondi Beach and Manly are fantastic options.