24 Of Australia’s Best Hotels To Level Up Your Vacay Game

If you’re looking for a premium stay in Hobart then look no further than MACq 01. This waterfront hotel is jam-packed full of character, so much so that each room is named after a Tasmanian character (from heroes, villains and explorers to inventors and convicts), including seven living Tasmanians.

This Australian hotel is so rich in tales you can even take the hotel's 114 Doors tour. MACq 01 is located just across Hunter Street so has great access to the heart of Hobart—very important when it comes to eating and drinking your way around the city. Our tip? Opt for the superior waterfront room with epic views and lush furnishings. You won't regret it.

Prepare to spend a lot of time picking your jaw up off the floor when staying at these incredible digs. Previously voted the World’s Best Boutique Hotel and World’s Best Luxury Hotel, this uniquely shaped building is all about celebrating it’s stunning, natural surroundings with floor to ceiling windows.

Featuring 20 private suites, a luxury day spa, and an unforgettable culinary offering, Saffire Freycinet, will create (free) personalised itineraries for its guests ensuring you’re exploring all the beauty this part of the world has to offer. Think: hiking Wineglass Bay, tasting fresh oysters at their marine oyster farm, a bush tucker workshop with indigenous guide Mick Quilliam, cocktail masterclasses, or stand up paddling boarding and taking in Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards mountain range. Yep, it's one of the best hotels in Australia for very good reason.

Housed in a 1840s heritage building, The Tasman is a luxury hotel in Hobart, celebrating the city’s unique local character and pioneering past. Just steps from the famous Salamanca Markets, St David’s Park and the vibrant waterfront of Sullivan’s Cove, there are 152 unique rooms filled with original artworks from local artists, crackling fireplaces and island baths.

Lock in a table at the on-site Italian restaurant, Peppina, and let Hobart chef Massimo Mele give you a taste of his nonna's kitchen with produce from local farmers. Afterwards we reckon a visit to the Mary Mary cocktail bar is on the cards. It's got a speakeasy vibe with rough stone walls, and dimmed lighting and the 'True Local' cocktail is a bit delish, a pairing of apple brandy, pommeau, mary mary vermouth and apple juice. Yum!

Prep the Instagram account. It’s about to come in for an onslaught of photos, thanks to the design peeps behind the masterpiece that is Ovolo Woolloomooloo. This hotel is quite simply one of the best five-star city stays in Australia, located a mere 15 minutes’ walk from Sydney Opera House. Inside, this place is sheer industrial chic, with exposed metal beams, soaring ceilings and a whole lotta vibrant pendant lights, and yet it screams luxe too, with plush furnishings and in-room mini-bars.

You’re definitely going to want to swing by the indoor swimming pool with its luxury poolside cabanas, and we’re pretty sure Bar Woolloomooloo is calling your name for a pre-dinner glass of champers. There’s always the fitness centre to hit up later if you fancy a workout, or maybe an in-room massage is more your thing? Thought so

Oh Bryon Bay. Beautiful beach, boutique shops, boho vibe, Chris Hemsworth... This place has it all. And if you opt for a stay at Hotel Marvell you can rest assured your vacay game is going up a level. The peeps at this place just want you to be in full-on relaxed mode as soon as you arrive, as they offer paid airport shuttle services so you don’t even need to get that phone out to find an Uber.

Inside, this hotel oozes understated swish: think muted tones, pale wood panelling and an enormous amount of green. Toddle on up to level 3 and treat yourself to a cocktail at Horizon Rooftop Bar. Later, we recommend a visit to the Byron Bay Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant on the ground floor (it’s got a state-of-the art oyster tank that cleanses the delicacies using filtered water collected on a king tide from nearby Brunswick Heads fyi). After you’ve had your fill of the good stuff, you’ll want to go for a refreshing dip in the hotel’s outdoor lap pool.

When it arrived in Sydney, it was one of the most hotly-anticipated openings of the year. Ace Hotel is a 257-room wonder, marking Ace’s very first home in the Southern Hemisphere. Sporting a ground-floor restaurant, cafe and bar, this behemoth venue is also home to a stellar arts, culture, music and culinary program. 

The interior and building itself draws inspo from architect Robin Boyd’s book, The Australian Ugliness and paintings of Indigenous Australian artist Albert Namatjira, which means you’ll find the likes of an ochre-red marble staircase, a burnt orange and tan sunken lounge on the ground floor and all the greenery. While the inside is lush, you came to explore, right? So hop on one of the complimentary bicycles and go do that tourist thing. Two wheels not your bag? You're an eight-minute walk from Central station.

If you’re after high roller status, check yourself into the Sofitel Darling Harbour—the area’s tallest building at 35 floors high. From the grandeur of the lobby alone you know you’re in for a treat. While all the rooms are great, you’re going to want to push the boat out and opt for a corner suite with floor to ceiling windows that will make soaking in that giant free-standing tub all the sweeter.

With French touches throughout, be sure to spend some time chilling by the outdoor infinity pool with panoramic views of Darling Harbour and the city skyline and hitting the state-of-the-art gym (if you’re into exercising on your holiday), then cap the whole blissful experience off in the award-winning Champagne Bar

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at Bannisters Port Stephens. The 78-room hotel is nestled on the edge of Salamander Shores and is straight up stunning. Celebrating the building's 70s vibes, the hotel has a chic coastal feel with crisp white walls and luxe furnishings throughout.

For us, a true holiday is all about the food and at Bannisters, it’s seriously on point. Rick Stein at Bannisters is famous for the freshly caught seafood and an extensive wine list that you’ll rave to your mates about. For something more casual, pull up a chair on the Terrace Bar overlooking the infinity pool. A crisp cocktail in hand and drool-worthy eats—it doesn’t get much better than that.

“If it fits in the lift, it can stay!” It’s a slogan that sums up the playfulness and generous service you’ll experience at Kimpton Margot Sydney, and we should clarify that they’re talking about doggos here! Yep, this beaut of a Sydney hotel is pet-friendly, so if you’re bringing your fluffy one on your precious city break, you can rest in the knowledge they’ll be given the star treatment just like you.

This boutique hotel has a grand yet inviting central lobby surrounded by drinking and dining options including Luke’s Kitchen, The Wilmot Bar, and The Pantry at Margot's. And, for a touch of contemporary beach chic, you and your dog can head to the Harper Rooftop Bar where there’s cocktails waiting, and a rather gorg pool.

For a hotel experience in Australia like none other, draw your attention to Miss Midgley's. Here, you'll find five groovy rooms, all of which have been designed for maximum living potential ie. long-term stays encouraged.

The building itself is a restored school house and lands itself the title of being one of Brisbane's oldest locations. Each room is self-contained with air conditioning, functional kitchens and a private outdoor space. Inside, expect dusky pinks and a whole lotta character. Bring your swimmers because outside there's an uber cute shared pool area with a sun deck. Oh, and you can bring your dog too if you fancy. The bottom two rooms are pet-friendly which is a mega plus.

Since this beauty of an Australian hotel opened in 2018, every influencer worth their salt has posted snaps at the hotel's stunning pool. We’re pleased to say The Calile is absolutely worth the hype, and then some. If you’ve been longing for a Euro getaway, then book a weekend here stat. From the uber-friendly staff, to the rooms styled in marble and shades of mint and pale pink, this hotel is seriously dreamy.

The best part? The vibing pool, complete with sun lounges, private cabanas and a bar slinging tasty tipples and eats from greek restaurant Hellenika. Once you’re done sunning yourself, you can shop up a storm at The Calile’s chic boutiques, grab a drink from the Lobby Bar and settle in for a feast at their amazing restaurant, SK Steak & Oyster.

Nothing beats the winter blues like tropical far north Queensland and when it comes to finding the best hotel up there, look no further than Crystalbrook Riley. While the hotel is seriously stunning, the jewel in its crown has to be the hotel’s sand-fringed, turquoise lagoon. The 1000 square metre swimming pool overlooks the Coral Sea, making it the perfect spot to soak up some sun during winter.

Located on the northern end of Cairn’s waterfront boardwalk, most rooms at Riley offer a spacious balcony with gram-worthy views. Come sunset, make your way up to Rocco, perched 42 metres above sea level with Mediterranean inspired share plates and an abundance of stellar champagne. Feeling peckish? Head to the theatrical Paper Crane for locally caught seafood.

Live the urban dream in a pad with that wow factor at The StandardX—a five-star hotel right in the heart of the action in Melbourne. You’re based Fizroy which is, let’s face it, where some of the best stuff happens, and so you’ll have vintage stores, independent restaurants, hidden bars and art galleries galore to explore. 

Outside, you can’t miss this place’s vibrant rust-coloured exterior, and inside you’ll find sleek lines, statement rugs and some seriously lush bathrooms. Save space for lunch as there’s two eateries to choose from, plus the ever-so-swanky Rooftop where you can lounge with a cocktail while taking in those city views.

If the Mediterranean and Mornington Peninsula had a baby, this lavish hotel would be it. The InterContinental Sorrento has elegant rooms and uber private suites to funnel your holidaying, not to mention a tranquil wellness centre to recharge your soul and a rooftop pool deck and bar (naturally).

Handling all your feasting is Audrey's, brought to you by Melbourne chef Scott Pickett, the award-winning legend that gifted the world Longrain. Audrey's leaves nothing to be desired by way of ocean-inspired feeds, with a seasonal tasting menu and a three-course choice menu on weekdays. But this hotel's plus points don't stop there. You'll also be able to soak up the Euro bistro that is The Atrium, a beer garden and even a speakeasy for breakfast, high tea, lunch, dinner and late-night entertainment. 

Spend a weekend in the heart of Australia’s foodie capital in these swanky digs. Located next to the famed intersection of Toorak Road and Chapel Street in Melbourne’s cultural precinct, Ovolo South Yarra is a place where retro-chic and pop art meet.

Boasting works from Mr Brainwash, Punk Me Tender, Ben Tankardand and the renowned Jisbar, the hotel has one of the largest private art collections in any Australian Hotel. Taking design cues from the days of disco, rock gods and glamour, the hotel’s 123 rooms infuse retro-plush, with accents of chrome and colour. Each has a musical moniker, aptly named in honour of the era’s most iconic lyrical lovers, ‘John’, ‘Yoko’, ‘Sonny’ and ‘Cher’.

Overlooking a picturesque vineyard that will transport you straight to Tuscany, it’s not hard to understand why Jackalope has bagged a slew of awards. With a sleek palette of charcoal, dark timber and ornate lighting, this hotel is packed with a seriously impressive art collection. Our fave? A seven-metre tall Jackalope sculpture at the entrance.

During the day, soak up the sunshine by the infinity pool overlooking the attached winery and then indulge in a decadent dinner at their fine dining restaurant Doot Doot Doot. Once you’ve wined and dined until your pants are uncomfortably tight you can retire to your room for a movie marathon complete with complimentary popcorn delivered to your door. Now that’s service. 

If you love your Australian hotels all colourful (and good for the ‘gram), then Adelaide’s Hotel Indigo is for you. The vibrant rooms with copper fixtures are seriously stunning, and the hotel is conveniently right in the heart of the city (and right by Adelaide Markets, might we add).

Munch your way through the food options at this hotel by starting on the ground floor where you’ll find the gorgeous Market & Meander Bar and Eatery. Then a trip to the roof for cocktails might be in order, courtest of the vibrant Merrymaker, a raw food and cocktail bar—perfect for a sunset tipple. Oh, there’s also a heated rooftop pool for when you and your SO want some relaxation.

Award-winning restaurant? Check. Wineries at your doorstep? Yep. How about a spa bath and outdoor shower? Yes it’s got that too. The Louise hotel is a Barossa Valley favourite and it’s easy to see why it fits the bill as one of Australia’s best. You’ve got some seriously good vineyards within 20km of your stay, including Seppeltsfield Winery and Murray St Vineyards—plus there’s two within actual stumbling distance (we’re lookin’ at you The Tscharke and Two Hands). 

Tuck into your gourmet breakfast before heading out to explore. Back at base come evening, you’ll find pre-dinner snacks, and dinner comes with matched wines (of course). You’ll also find your in-room mini bar is restocked daily, and there’s a fabulous lap pool, fitness centre and sauna for relaxing in if all that fun gets too much.

It’s not often you get to kick back and enjoy the finer things in life. We’re talking room service, rooftop bar and restaurant, on-call cocktail mixologist and personal trainer. No, we’re not dreaming, this is the reality at the brand new five-star Eos by SkyCity (and yes, you can even choose your own pillow from their premium pillow menu).

This is one for the pleasure seekers—each of the spacious rooms is tastefully styled, offers city views and is situated an easy 200 metres from the Adelaide Convention Centre. Picture this: floating in the rooftop swimming pool, drink in hand, before wining and dining at one of the world-class restaurants and finishing up at the in-hotel casino. A top pick for one of the best hotels in Australia.

If your idea of luxury is more classic opulence than minimalist modern, prepare to fall in love with The Playford. Situated in the heart of Adelaide’s cultural precinct, The Playford brings together a rich tapestry of Australia’s food, wine and art culture with stunning architecture, polished service and a sprinkle of luxury in every facet.

Spoil yourself with a stay at Australia’s most awarded boutique hotel (that’s saying something), while you explore the vibrant streets of West End, Rundle Mall and the Adelaide Oval, which are located within a few minutes' walk. Despite the attractions just out your front door, The Playford is one of those hotels you barely need to leave: The Playford Restaurant offers innovative, European-inspired fare and boasts an award-winning breakfast, while The Playford Lounge Bar slings impressive cocktails in stylish Art Nouveau surrounds. 

This beautiful Australian hotel, located within the 140-year-old State Buildings will make you never want to return home. Not only does COMO The Treasury feature a spa, gym, pool, library and the most elegant rooms you’ll ever lay eyes on.

It's also home to some amazing dining options. Rooftop restaurant Wildflower serves up contemporary cuisine championing local produce; Post offers elegant dining with modern Italian cuisine; Petition is a more relaxed dining offering delicious modern Australian eats, while the Wine Merchant is the perfect spot to kick back with a wine in the Postal Hall. So many activities, and we haven't even mentioned Pooles Temple, the underground jazz bar. 

Fancy giving yourself some resort vibes and free reign over not one but two outdoor pools? The Mangrove Hotel is calling your name. Broome is a primo slice of the country that has to be seen IRL to be believed because the beauty there is out of this world—and this place is set in tropical gardens with views over Roebuck Bay.

We’ve been drooling over the photos and we have a word of advice. Splurge on the Ocean View Suites and wake up feeling all sorts of fresh as you look out over that turquoise bay.

Don’t let the name fool you, these digs are perfect for those looking to soak up all the good vibes Darwin has to offer. And if an ideal holiday for you involves sipping cocktails poolside then you’ll want to check into Mindil Beach Casino Resort.

Nestled on the city’s sparkling azzure waterfront, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Darwin from their huge pool—which given the tropical heat up north, you’ll be using a lot. There’s of course a casino on site and a bunch of tasty restaurants so you bring on all of the holiday vibes in lush surroundings

Tick off a bucket list trip to the Red Centre and check into Sails In The Desert. Base yourself at this five-star Australian hotel and you're a literal five-minute walk from the lookout that gives you an epic view of Uluru and just a 20-minute drive from the rock itself.

Take a seat in the swanky bar and treat yourself to one of the cocktails they're slinging. Bites come courtesy of some hero native ingredients and there's a large pool you can retreat to later for a refreshing dip. Looking for a spot of pampering? Book yourself in for a treatment at the on-site luxury spa.