Sydney. A good looking and sprawling metropolis that’s known for its sparkling harbour and unique brand of laid-back glamour.
Home to what is considered one of the most spectacular New Years fireworks displays, Sydney is more than gleaming waters, well-known bridges and one-way streets. The grungier, edgier side of Sydney shines through the Inner West with suburbs like Newton playing host to the more colourful characters of the city.
With private beaches dotting the shores of the Northern suburbs and an array of fine dining restaurants popping up in the East, Sydney is an eclectic mix of styles with a darker underside to explore.
So if you want to experience both sides of the coin, skip the hotels – although, Sydney is also home to some of the coolest hotels around – and take a look at one of these awesome Airbnb stays instead. And, once you’ve made a visit and you ‘complete’ Sydney, why not check out the Melbourne Airbnb stays that will make you want to soak up the Southern city’s nightlife.
Bondi Cloud | Bondi Beach
Any visit to Sydney will naturally have to include arguably the world’s most famous beach. But rather than rough it with the backpackers in a hostel, check yourself into Bondi Cloud and revel in gorgeous sweeping views of the entire beach. With enough space for four guests, you and a few friends can have dinner and drinks whilst overlooking both the ocean and the Icebergs pool, or take the very short stroll into town to bask in the abundant nightlife.
Loft-style Penthouse Apartment | CBD
Of course, the other reason to visit Sydney is to experience everything the city has to offer, including the cool restaurants and cocktail bars, so where better to rest your head each evening than in this stunning loft-style Airbnb apartment in the CBD. Split over two levels and with acres of glass allowing for natural light, this apartment has amazing views of the skyline around it, along with a decked area for sunbathing and cooking up a storm on the BBQ.
Waterfront Duplex | Balmain
If you need somewhere to stay in Sydney for a small group, this waterfront duplex in Balmain could be just the home you’re looking for. With direct views of Sydney Harbour, the city skyline and the ANZAC Bridge, this four-bed home with space for eight guests is an ultra-modern dream house. We reckon you’ll be hard-pushed to tear yourself from the heated pool.
Little Italy Loft | Leichhardt
Ok, so we’ve already featured a loft-style apartment, and this is another, but this one is so cool we had to include it. Tastefully decorated and comfy enough for two to three guests, this apartment is well-suited to those just in town for a weekend. The indoor swing seat looks particularly inviting.
Luxury Oasis | Manly
Of course, other than the world-famous Bondi Beach, Sydney is home to Manly, the birthplace of Australian surfing. A gem within the Northern Beaches, Manly is another must-visit place and we think this apartment with room for eight is a gem of its own. The open-plan living space is decorated to resemble the 70s, which is what swings it for us, with exposed brickwork and wooden furniture. A walk-in shower and private pool bring it back to the modern-day.
Hipster’s Paradise | Camperdown
This Camperdown Airbnb pad may be on the smaller side, but it’s situated perfectly for experiencing Sydney’s Inner West. Exposed brickwork, vintage furniture and concrete flooring make it the perfect pit stop for an influx of hipsters on the hunt for the latest sneakers in Sydney.
Bungalow On Sunrise | Palm Beach
Head up the coast a bit from the CBD and you’ll arrive at Palm Beach, famous for being the setting of Australian soap opera Home and Away. Easily one of the prettiest beaches in Sydney and with some of the best views in the whole of Australia, and this bungalow on Airbnb offers one of the best spots to experience those views. Sure, it might not have some ultra-modern conveniences that other homes in Palm Beach might offer, but it has oodles of charm and unobstructed views right over the ocean. And you can’t put a price on that.
Opera House Views | Kirribilli
Sure, oceanic views are amazing, but how about swinging open your French doors and looking straight out towards the Sydney Opera House? It’s a view not experienced by many, but you’ll be able to experience them every single day (or at least, for the duration of your booking). We’ll admit the rest of the Airbnb apartment is nothing too special to write home about, although of course its well-decorated and clean. But with views like these, we wouldn’t care.
Royal National Park Retreat | Bundeena
If walking is your jam, then the Royal National Park in Sydney’s South is your mecca and this gorgeous home in Bundeena places you just moments away from the numerous trails and waterfalls on offer.
RELATED: Best Walking Routes In Sydney
You’ll really have to force yourself to leave through the front door though, as this Airbnb home is so jaw-droppingly beautiful you’ll want to stay inside for the length of your stay. With lashings of wood coupled with touches of modern black anthracite, this home is both an architectural and a nature lover’s paradise.
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Sydney Airbnb FAQ
Is Airbnb cheaper than a hotel?
Generally speaking, yes, an Airbnb stay will be cheaper than staying in a hotel. This is especially true in central locations. However, Airbnb homes and apartments are self-catered, so if a morning turndown service is a must-have for you, then you're better off in a hotel.
How much does an Airbnb cost?
There is no set price for an Airbnb as, like hotels, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year you want to stay. Owners are free to change the prices as they wish, and the price can also change depending on the number of guests. However, the price per night has to be displayed on the listing for your selected dates.
Is Airbnb legal in Sydney?
Yes, Airbnb is legal in Sydney. Some reports have suggested it is illegal, but these are not true. However, while it is legal for Airbnb owners to advertise their listings and for people to stay in them, the NSW Government can enforce fines on people not staying home and travelling for 'non-essential' reasons.
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