Booking the perfect hotel for your Sydney layover can make or break your travel experience.
Whether you're a frequent traveler like me or a first-timer, finding the right Sydney Airport (SYD) accommodation that caters to your needs can be overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, how do you pick the one that ticks all the boxes?
Look no further than our ultimate guide to booking the best Sydney Airport Hotel for a stress-free travel experience. We'll guide you through the process, from finding the right location at and nearby Sydney Airport, amenities, and budget-friendly options to making your stay as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
Most Popular Sydney Airport Hotels Overall
If you're looking for a quick answer to the best Sydney Airport Hotels, below are our most popular hotel picks.
1. Only Hotel Inside the International Terminal: Aerotel Sydney
2. Best Airport Hotel Closest to the International Terminal: Novotel Sydney International Airport
3. Best 5-Star Sydney Airport Hotel: Pullman Sydney Airport
4. Best Hotel Near the Domestic Terminal: Citadines Connect Sydney Airport
5. Best Value-for-Money Sydney Airport Hotel: Holiday Inn Sydney Airport
Sydney Domestic & International Terminals
By the way, Sydney has only one airport, officially called Kingsford Smith Airport. It's often referred to as Sydney Airport or even Mascot Airport due to its location, but it's one and the same place and has the abbreviation SYD.
Note that Sydney Airport's Domestic and International terminals are located around 10 minutes from each other in different buildings, and you cannot walk between them. The T-Bus provides a complimentary shuttle bus service between T1 International and T2/T3 Domestic terminals every 30 minutes.
Reasons to stay near Sydney Airport
Is it better to stay in Sydney City Center, or is it actually good to stay in an airport hotel near Kingsford Smith?
Staying at Sydney Airport will save time and eliminate the stress of navigating through a busy city to catch an early or late-night flight.
Kingsford Smith Aiport is around 20-30 minutes from Central Station, depending on traffic conditions and mode of transportation. If traffic is very heavy during peak hours and you're traveling by car or bus, this can easily add up to 45 minutes to an hour! I highly recommend coming by light rail when staying in Sydney's CBD.
Staying at or near the Sydney International Airport also offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly motels, while providing easy access to all airport facilities, such as lounges, restaurants, and shops, allowing you to relax and prepare for your trip.
Finally, it provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for long layovers or flight cancellations, ensuring you have a comfortable place to rest and recharge before your next flight.
Best Sydney Aiport Hotels At The International Terminal
Only two hotels are located right inside the International Terminal, but several excellent hotels are nearby Sydney Airport that are worth considering, with most offering airport shuttle service.
Aerotel Sydney
Aerotel Sydney is a unique 4-star hotel and the only hotel situated inside the International Terminal of Sydney Airport. Rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and soundproofing, ensuring a peaceful stay.
You can also enjoy 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and access to the nearby fitness center. The hotel's prime location inside the airport makes it a convenient choice for travelers needing a short rest before their next flight.
Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel
Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel is located directly across from the International Terminal in the car park and is the closest hotel to Sydney International Airport.
Offering guests stylish accommodations, modern amenities, and excellent dining options, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a comfortable stay with easy walking distance access to the airport.
Best Sydney Aiport Hotels Near International Terminal
Here are some of the best hotel options to consider for nearby airport hotels:
Novotel Sydney International Airport
Novotel Sydney International Airport is a contemporary hotel located only a 10-minute drive from the airport.
This hotel offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant and bar, providing guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
CKS Sydney Airport Hotel
CKS Sydney Airport Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located one street from the Novotel and also a 10-minute drive from Sydney Airport. The hotel features comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms.
Enjoy the convenience of the hotel's 24-hour reception and free parking. This hotel is a great option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay near Sydney Airport.
Best Sydney Aiport Hotels Near The Domestic Terminal
There are no hotels located within the Domestic Terminal of Sydney Airport, but there are several nearby hotels located in the surrounding area.
We'll list some of the best options that are all located within a short drive or walk from the Domestic Terminal and offer comfortable accommodation for travelers needing to stay in close proximity to the airport.
Of course, you can also stay at any of the Sydney airport hotels listed below when being close to the International Terminal is important. Most hotels are in a great location to Kingsford Smith Intl, and you can easily take the bus shuttle over to T1 or book an airport shuttle right from the doorstep of your hotel.
Citadines Connect Sydney Airport
Citadines Connect Sydney Airport is a stylish boutique hotel situated just a short 2-minute drive from Sydney Domestic Airport and 10 minutes from the International Terminal. The hotel's 150 rooms are available in Economy, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class, with some rooms featuring views of arriving and departing aircraft or Sydney's skyline.
Relax at the hotel's cocktail bar, which offers views of the runways below, and take advantage of the 24-hour food shop for self-serve gourmet meals and the 24-hour gym. Bonus, the hotel is pet-friendly in Premium Economy Rooms upon request.
Mantra Hotel
The Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport is a stylish and modern hotel situated within a short, flat walk from the T2 Domestic Terminal.
The hotel offers elegant Studio Rooms with all the necessary amenities, including free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, LCD TVs, and deluxe rain showers. Take advantage of the hotel's wake-up call service and express checkout to ensure a stress-free departure.
Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Airport
Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Airport offers comfortable accommodation with convenient amenities, including a kitchen or kitchenette in each room, free WiFi, and a fitness center.
Located just 600 meters from the airport, it's a great choice for travelers needing a clean room with a comfortable bed and late checkout.
Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport
The Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport is a luxurious hotel just a few minutes from the International Terminal. This lovely hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a heated rooftop pool, providing guests with a high-end experience before their flight.
Pullman Sydney Airport
Pullman Sydney Airport offers luxury accommodation with a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and 24/7 front desk with friendly staff.
It's located 500m from Mascot Train Station and less than a 5-minute drive from both Sydney Airport terminals. The spacious, modern rooms with comfy bed include a 48-inch Smart TV and en suite bathroom with free toiletries.
Meriton Suites Mascot Central
Meriton Suites Mascot Central is a modern hotel with a fitness center, indoor heated pool, hot tub, and steam room. It's just 10 minutes drive from the Domestic Airport Terminal and offers unlimited free WiFi.
The train station is adjacent to the hotel, taking you to Sydney's CBD in 10 minutes. All suites have fully equipped kitchens and laundry, and most have balconies.
Holiday Inn Sydney Airport, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Sydney Airport is in a convenient location, just a 5-minute drive from Sydney Airport. The hotel is 450 meters from Mascot Train Station, providing easy access to Sydney's central business district and famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay and The Rocks.
Each room features an HD flat-screen TV, tea/coffee-making facilities, a choice of pillows, and a private bathroom with hairdryers and toiletries. There's access to the hotel's sauna and fitness center, 24/7 room service, and the Holiday Inn Sydney Airport offers an airport shuttle service for $10AUD per person during peak periods, plus children 12 and under can stay and eat for free.
Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport
Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport offers free WiFi in all rooms and a 24-hour front desk. It is located just a 2-minutes drive from Sydney Domestic Airport Terminals 1 & 2 and 9 minutes drive from Sydney International Airport Terminal.
The hotel features modern, air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom, free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a shower, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee-making facilities. The Mascot Train Station is a 9-minute walk away and popular attractions such as The Grounds of Alexandria and Westfield Eastlakes are just a short drive away.
Ibis Budget Sydney Airport
Ibis Budget Sydney Airport is an affordable and convenient hotel located just a 5-minute drive from the airport. This hotel features simple but comfortable clean rooms and on-site parking, making it a great option for an overnight stay for those on a budget.
Best Sydney Airport Hotels – Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any Sydney Airport hotels that have a swimming pool?
When you compare hotels, there are several hotels near Sydney Airport, but not many have a swimming pool. One option is the Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport, which features an indoor heated pool, spa and sauna. The Meriton Suites Mascot Central offers an indoor pool as well as hot tub and steam room. The Pullman Sydney Airport also has a fitness center, but no pool.
Are there any Sydney Airport Hotels that offer day rates?
Some Sydney Airport hotels offer day rates, allowing you to book a room for a few hours during the day rather than an overnight stay. This includes the Ibis Budget Sydney Airport, Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport, Pullman Sydney Airport and Stamford Plaza. It's always best to check with the individual hotel directly to see their specific policies and rates.
Is it nice to stay in an airport hotel in Sydney?
Staying in an airport hotel in Sydney can be convenient for travelers with early morning flights or long layovers. Most airport hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making transportation to the terminals hassle-free.
Additionally, some airport hotels in Sydney offer a range of amenities, such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and on-site dining options. While staying at an airport hotel may not provide the same level of cultural immersion as staying in the heart of the Sydney city center, it can be a comfortable and practical choice for travelers who prioritize convenience and easy access to transportation.
Book Your Trip To Australia
Book Your Flight
I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within Australia.
Book Your Hotel
My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com, as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings.
Book Your Tours & Activities
I like finding and pre-booking tours with Get Your Guide and Viator. You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities.
Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees
I highly recommend getting a Wise account to withdraw money in Australia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Australian Dollars. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to.
Stay Connected Anywhere
Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees.
Don't Go Without Travel Insurance
Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo, my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased!
Best Sydney Airport Hotels – Final Words
When looking to book the best Sydney Airport hotels, it's important to consider things like location, amenities, and nearby dining and attractions. Some top Sydney Airport hotel options include the Aerotel Sydney, the only hotel inside the SYD Kingsford Smith Intl.
The best hotels near Kingsford Smith include Pullman Sydney Airport, Meriton Suites Mascot Central, and Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Airport.
These hotels offer convenient access to the airport and also provide easy access to top attractions in Sydney, such as the Opera House and Bondi Beach.
Sydney offers so many things to do, even for a short layover. You'll be spoiled for choice on the city's vibrant dining scene, taking a scenic harbor cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House, or stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens or Darling Harbour. There are plenty of options to make the most of your time before heading to one of the many conveniently located Sydney airport hotels.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!
