Location Guide: Cheap Accommodation, Sydney

Posted by Jeremy Storer on March 3, 2012

While it is possible to get last minute deals on cheap accomodation in Sydney’s CBD- there are usually plenty of people vying for the same great deals and it is possible to miss out on accommodation in Sydney altogether if you leave your planning too late.

With CBD attractions such as the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House drawing crowds from around the world to this incredible city year round- staying in the heart of Sydney’s CBD and paying exorbitant amounts is not essential for you to see and enjoy all that Sydney has to offer. Simply understanding a little bit about Sydney’s inner city suburbs and public transport system can save you bucket loads and may even make for a more authentic and enjoyable stay.

We highly recommend the following Sydney inner city locations that are only minutes to the CBD’s attractions by public transport, with terrific local restaurants and great local attractions:

Darlinghurst
Paddington
Double Bay
Haymarket
Potts Point
Manly

Key Travel Times for Cheap Accommodation in Sydney
Planning a cheap stay in Sydney is certainly possible if you can avoid peak travel times. If possible, try to avoid:

School Holidays and Public Holidays
Major international events
Major Sporting events- eg. Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Tennis events etc
Major festivals and events- eg. Mardi Gras, New Years Eve celebrations

Of course, some of Sydney’s events may be the very reason you are visiting Sydney, but don’t despair- simply check out your accommodation options from our inner city list above or consider a suburban stay below to save some money.
Cheap Accomodation- Sydney’s outer suburbs and rural destinations
With a comprehensive train, ferry and bus network as well as an abundance of taxi’s and the opportunity to hire a car, there is absolutely no reason to limit yourself to Sydney’s CBD accommodation. There are plenty of suburbs in Sydney and NSW that have great atmosphere and offer great budget accommodation from backpackers hostels, to motels, hotels and self contained apartments. Consider accommodation in the following areas to save a little money on your next trip to Sydney:

Vaucluse
Bondi
Glebe
Newtown

Alternatively, why not venture beyond the high rise buildings and crowds of tourists and enjoy a rural or semi-rural holiday? There are plenty of places to stay including hotels, motels and B&B’s that offer stunning surrounds, exquisite accommodation and great service only an hour or so drive from Sydney. Their location makes them much more affordable, especially during peak seasons and their convenient location means that you can make day trips into the CBD and enjoy the best of both worlds! Our top suggestions include:

The Blue Mountains
The Hunter Valley

Must See Attractions in Sydney:
If you’re not staying in the CBD and want to plan a day trip or two into the city to see what Sydney’s all about, be sure to check out the following visitor attractions:

Sydney Oprea House
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Darling Harbour
Chinese Friendship Garden
Taronga Zoo
The Powerhouse Museum
Queen Victoria Building
Ocean Wolrd- Manly
Olympic Park