The DarlingvsSydney Harbour YHA
Both hotels are recommended by professional reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, Sydney Harbour YHA ranks slightly better than The Darling. Sydney Harbour YHA comes in at 83 with praise from 7 publications like Fodor's, Lonely Planet and Rough Guide.
The Darling
80 Pyrmont Street, at The Star, Sydney, New South Wales 2009
From $181/night
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
Time Out
"Luxury buffs take note: rooms boast 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets and a hand-picked pillow menu, plus textured wallpaper and and bespoke furniture." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"If casino high-rolling and fine dining are your thing, then snuggle up to the Darling, perched at Pyrmont near the touristy Darling Harbour quarter." Full review
The Telegraph
8.0
"A residence deserving of its many awards, The Darling is truly the darling of Sydney’s five star hotels." Full review
Forbes Travel Guide
4 Stars
"The Darling in Sydney’s bustling Pyrmont neighborhood pairs upscale living with attentive service, making this boutique hotel popular with those who want a stylish, comfortable stay in the Aussie city." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"An upscale urban retreat attached to The Star complex that includes a casino, shops, restaurants and entertainment venues." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Above the bling of the Star casino, the elegant Darling is one of two on-site hotels." Full review
i
Sink into beds laid with 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and choose from a menu of 12 pillows.
Michelin Guide
"Around the west side of Darling Harbour, in the newly bustling district of Pyrmont, is something that’s a little bit rare, at least in this city: a freestanding, purpose-built, single-use luxury hotel, with an enviable location that makes for spectacular harbor views — and an independent one at that" Full review
Sydney Harbour YHA
110 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney, New South Wales 2000
From $22/night
- Free Internet
- Laundry Service
- Laundy Room
- Multilingual
- Kitchenette
- Meeting Rooms
Fodor's
"The accommodation is aimed at budget travelers, but has the added attraction of million-dollar harbor views from many rooms."
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"Any qualms about the unhostel-like prices will be shelved the moment you head up to the roof terrace... and see Circular Quay laid bare before you." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"This is the only backpacker hostel in The Rocks. There are great views from the roof terrace, where you can take in the sunset over the harbour as you eat at the picnic tables."
Rough Guide
Star
"Built in 2009, and with gorgeous harbour views, this is the pick of Sydney’s youth hostels – and the only budget accommmodation in The Rocks."
Oyster
Budget
"Popular with backpackers, the Sydney Harbour YHA is a budget-friendly hostel with both dorms and private rooms." Full review
Time Out
"Nestled comfortably in the middle of Sydney's historic district, the Rocks, Sydney Harbour YHA is fitted with airconditioning, barbecue and internet." Full review
Frommer's
"Offers basic, clean, and rooms at a very reasonable price...some rooms have harbor views (if you crane your neck). All are air-conditioned, and even the dorms have private bathrooms. " Full review