2 Best Hotels in Sydney, New South Wales

More English country manor than inner-city hotel, this gorgeous property feels like a decadent, luxurious sanctuary. Previously called The Observatory, the hotel was taken over in 2013 by Langham Hotels, a British brand with many upscale hotels in its portfolio. Little has changed with the exception of new beds, known as Langham blissful beds (each with a custom-made feather topper) in each suite and guest room. The spacious rooms, with their Venetian- and Asian-inspired decor, have mahogany furnishings, antique reproductions, plush fabric, and some suites have four-poster beds. The spectacular indoor pool is surrounded by marble and potted palms, with a fresco of Van Gogh's The Starry Night on the ceiling. Taking afternoon tea in the Palm Court is a sophisticated delight. The hotel's single weakness is its lack of views, but that's like saying the Mona Lisa's single weakness is her crooked smile.

Boutique hotel meets cool apartment: QT Bondi is for the modern traveler who cares less about spas, gyms, and room service, and more about a great location, creative design, and home-away-from-home amenities (which at QT Bondi means everything from kitchenettes with dishwashers and washing machines to shoehorns and beach bags). There's no pool or on-site restaurant but you won't even notice with Sydney's best beach across the street and insider recommendations—along with skip-the-line privileges—at some of Bondi's coolest restaurants and cafés. The style and vibe is true Bondi beach, with white-washed interiors, bright pops of color in furnishings and local art, and warm hospitality.