Best Luxury Hotels in Australia

W Sydney, a new luxury hotel set in the distinctive Ribbon structure over Darling Harbour, is designed by the renowned Australian firm Hassell and features interiors by Bowler James Brindley. The design reflects Sydney’s maritime heritage with nautical-themed rooms, and its larrikin spirit seen in vibrant and unconventional spaces like the Living Room, which is reimagined as a social hub with electric blue décor and nest-like seating. The hotel offers 588 marine-inspired guestrooms, including 162 suites, and embraces a ‘Future Noir’ theme across various spaces. W Sydney enhances the local dining and nightlife with its four new venues, including BTWN which features local produce and a late-night dessert bar in collaboration with Janice Wong. Additional amenities include the AWAY Spa for relaxation, a well-equipped FIT Gym, and the WET Deck for poolside leisure, all contributing to the hotel’s dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates Sydney’s energetic culture.

Smack bang in the middle of Brisbane’s busy CBD (central business district) Amora is a recently renovated upmarket hotel which appeals to business travellers, couples and families alike. Light and spacious with little clutter to detract from its pure design, it has 296 guest rooms of which the top, fourteenth floor offer balcony suites. The Dapl restaurant offers hearty but refined modern Australian cuisine and is a must-try for any guest.

Standing proud on the edge of Brisbane’s central business district (CBD) and the city’s twisting, eponymous river, The W cuts a slick sail against the rest of its neighbouring corporate buildings. Inside, the W is vibrant, snazzy and energetic, with a design unashamedly inspired by pop art sensibilities. Rooms range from ‘Wonderful’, ‘Marvelous’ and ‘Fantastic’ to suites which up the ante from‘Wow’ to ‘Extreme wow’ – all of which easily describe a typical stay here.

The Motley Hotel, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, embodies Melbourne’s creative spirit with bold design, artistic touches, and a deep connection to the city’s heritage. Built on the historic Federation Terraces of Bridge Road, it honours the legacy of seamstress Ms. Mary Parker. Offering 80 bespoke rooms inspired by Melbourne’s arts scene, the hotel blends historical charm with modern comforts. Guests enjoy offsite gym access, room service, and exclusive local packages. Dining is a highlight, with Ms Parker serving refined dishes celebrating Melbourne’s seasonal produce, while Threads Rooftop Bar offers craft cocktails with skyline views. A favourite among locals, The Motley Hotel delivers a stylish, immersive Melbourne experience.

A bold, colourfully lit facade meets guests arriving at the Adelphi, a palette that continues inside, along with quirky artwork and installations. Its heated, year-round cantilever rooftop pool on level 9 is a highlight for many visitors, conducive to some swoon-worthy holiday snaps. Attention to detail is a big deal here; from the personalised welcome notes in each room to the luxurious linens and bath products. Take advantage of bespoke experiences, such as gin-making sessions and private cinema screenings. The Adelphi, a design hotel, is located in the central business district of Melbourne.

Four Seasons Sydney caters to guest’s needs with 531 accommodations and a wide range of options available – 7 unique guest rooms, 8 suites, and 4 accessible room types are on offer. Each of the spacious, contemporary rooms in this 5-star luxury escape offer awe-inspiring views from expansive windows of the city’s skyline or the iconic harbour. The hotel is a stone’s throw from The Rocks and Circular Bay and offers views of Sydney’s iconic landmarks. There are plenty of exquisite dining establishments and the option of room service, 24 hours a day. A luxurious array of indulgent spa treatments is available at Endota Spa for a tranquil experience. In the heart of the city’s Central Business District, Four Seasons Sydney is the ideal location for hosting sophisticated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events for up to 900 persons, as well as unforgettable celebrations from intimate gatherings to lavish weddings.

Chippendale is a nice choice for a stay in Sydney, being only 5 minutes away from the city centre. It’s also home to the Old Clare Hotel, a luxury conversion from two historic buildings. Previously a brewer’s headquarters, today its heritage features come together in a 62-room boutique hotel with style and character. Look out for the soaring ceilings, exposed brick and amazing lighting installations – all different in every room. You’re spoiled for choice for dining options including Kensington St. Social from star British chef, Jason Atherton. There is a rooftop pool but is under renovation so check the website for updates. There’s a gym if you want to work out or head out into the city on the bikes available to rent.

If you want to feel indulged in your stay in Sydney, choose the Langham. First off, it’s in The Rocks so ideally located, and second, the rooms are among the largest in the city. You’ll instantly relax in the muted pastel décor which includes a king-sized bed even in the cheapest rooms; the best have terraces with views of West Harbour. The hotel is a complete charm with an art collection curated by Sotheby’s, bespoke furniture, and elaborate floral arrangements. There is an over-pervading (but beautiful) sense of pink – there’s even a pink vintage car to take you on tours. There’s a lavish underground spa, health club, stunning indoor heated pool, and tennis courts for some energetic release. Dining options are terrific and it’s simply de rigour to have an afternoon cocktail in the Palm Court.

Despite only having 31 rooms, there’s a lot going on in the Establishment so if you’re looking for a quiet stay, this hotel is not your best choice. Previously a department store dating to 1890, the building is in a discreet street 5 minutes from Circular Quay. More like an entertainment venue than a hotel, the rooms interconnect with three restaurants, three bars and a nightclub. Rooms are either dark or light with exposed brick walls, parquetry floors, contemporary furnishings and great technology including unlimited Netflix. Dining options range from fine dining to sushi to bar snacks. If you don’t want to head out in the evening, there’s food and drink aplenty as well as the call of the bright lights of the nightclub.

Enjoying one of the best locations in the city, the 5*Park Hyatt is luxury in every sense. Boasting views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House, the S-shaped hotel hugs the cove of Dawes Point. Sophisticated and elegant, the large rooms are finished in neutral earthy tones and have big picture windows, marble bathrooms, and the latest in-room technology. The jewel of this hotel is undoubtedly its rooftop pool and terrace with incredible views. Other leisure facilities include a spa with a full menu of treatments and a fitness centre. Dining comes with a view in two restaurants, while the bar welcomes you in for a casual drink and some light bites.

If your taste in hotels runs to the quirky and hip, QT will not disappoint. Two historic buildings from 1920 have been merged and converted to form quite an amazing space. Recreating a 20s Broadway musical vibe, QT also enjoys a favourable location in the heart of Sydney’s shopping district. A dazzling mix of 20s, Gothic and Italianate on the outside, inside the 200 rooms are once both luxurious and high-tech. High design, antiques and original artworks and installations are everywhere including in the European-style brasserie, street-side café, and intimate lounge which boasts an enticing cocktail menu, Guests can chill out in the boudoir-inspired QSpa under ceilings of stained glass which offers a range of treatments including specials for couples, Hamman and relaxation lounge.

A boutique hotel in a converted wool store with a sense of fun, the Ovolo 1888 is ideally located in Darling Harbour next to Barangaroo Park, a superb base for exploring the delights of Sydney. Inside the original fixtures of the wool store are on display in the public areas and rooms with rough-hewn beams, exposed brick, and pipes all incorporated into the décor, along with quirky artefacts and the silver eggs (ovo) of the brand’s signature emblem. Rooms include furniture made from original ironbark beans and screen prints of works by Aussie wunderkind Jasper Knight and range from shoebox to suite with sun terrace. The hotel bistro and bar is an eclectic rendition of industrial chic meets vintage and serves Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy a free happy hour every day.