Sydney vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Sydney vacation rentals

Stay near Sydney's top sights

Sydney Opera House1,998 locals recommend
Darling Harbour892 locals recommend
Manly Beach752 locals recommend
The University of Sydney194 locals recommend
Sydney Town Hall33 locals recommend
Sydney Harbour Bridge984 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Sydney

  • Total rentals

    29K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    736K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    13K properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    4.3K properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    5.1K properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    9.8K properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Sydney

Welcome to Sydney

Booming Sydney, the biggest and oldest city in Australia, is a stunning, sprawling metropolis. The global city is a buzzing economic, cultural, and culinary hub with architecture mixing classical, Gothic, and modern styles. Visitors to this storied port are welcomed visually by two iconic landmarks: the grand Sydney Opera House, with its high-flying sails that jut into the sky, set against the dramatic arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Beyond its urban appeal, Sydney is networked with expansive parks, gardens, and hiking trails. Pack a beach bag and follow the crowds to beautiful Bondi Beach, where Sydneysiders (as locals are called) stroll on the sand and surf the deep blue waters year round. This is a place where urban sophistication and casual fun coexist naturally: You may even find yourself at a five-star restaurant with a bit of beach sand on your heel.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Sydney

Thanks to Sydney’s waterfront locale, it experiences fairly mild temperatures year round. Summers (December through February) are sunny and warm. Expect crowds during this time, especially on the beaches. Summer is also high time for festivals. The Sydney Festival, a citywide arts celebration, takes place in January. New Year’s Eve’s epic fireworks celebration above the Sydney Opera House draws throngs of onlookers, and is followed by the city’s premier music event, Field Day Music Festival, the next day. Temperatures and crowds dip in fall, and winter brings the city’s coolest temperatures and rain. Spring may be the perfect shoulder month to book an apartment for rent, as the temperatures rise while humidity remains low.


Top things to do in Sydney

Royal Botanic Garden

Established in 1816, this waterfront park is home to native and global flora. Wander the Australian Rainforest Garden to see rare palm trees, ferns, and orchids or explore the Calyx, a grand glass complex with a massive living wall. The garden is also home to the city’s largest colony of flying foxes — large, googly-eyed bats who fly around the park dining on fruit.

Art Gallery of NSW

One of Australia’s finest art collections is housed in a 19th-century building designed to resemble a classical temple of art. There are rich assemblages of Aboriginal and contemporary art alongside paintings by European masters. The gallery hosts exciting traveling exhibitions throughout the year, as well as talks and performances. Best of all, admission to the gallery and most of its exhibitions is free.

Cockatoo Island

Explore Australia’s complicated history as a penal colony at this UNESCO World Heritage site, accessible via a short ferry ride. Those sentenced endured harsh conditions on the island, which began operating as a prison in 1839. Later, it was an important naval and shipping dock. Today Cockatoo Island is a historical site that’s also been reimagined as an arts destination, with three distinct events venues; it hosted the Biennale of Sydney in 2020.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Sydney?

    Sydney experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures in summer, from December to February, average 73-79°F (23-26°C). Winter, from June to August, sees average temperatures of 48-64°F (9-18°C). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest month typically being June.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Sydney?

    In Sydney, you can explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, or climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For beach enthusiasts, surfing at Bondi Beach is a popular activity. Additionally, the Taronga Zoo and the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium are top attractions for animal lovers.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Sydney?

    Sydney is a year-round destination, but many visitors choose the summer months of December to February. During this time, you can enjoy events like the Sydney Festival, a major arts festival, and Australia Day celebrations. The Vivid Sydney light festival in May and June also draws large crowds.

  • What are the best places to stay in Sydney?

    Sydney has many neighbourhoods that appeal to different types of travellers. The Central Business District is close to major attractions, while Darling Harbour has a lively waterfront scene. For beach lovers, Bondi and Manly are often recommended. Glebe and Newtown are known for their bohemian vibe and local markets.

  • What are the best places to visit in Sydney?

    Sydney is brimming with noteworthy sights. The Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach are frequently visited landmarks. Other popular places include Darling Harbour, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and Paddington Markets. For a unique experience, explore The Rocks, a historic area with narrow lanes and colonial buildings.

  • What are some hiking trails in Sydney?

    Sydney has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers stunning ocean views, while the Spit Bridge to Manly walk takes you through lush bushland. For a challenging hike, try the 45-kilometre (28-mile) long Great North Walk, which starts in Sydney and ends in Newcastle.

  • What are some family activities to do in Sydney?

    Families in Sydney can spend a day exploring the interactive exhibits at the Powerhouse Museum, have fun at Luna Park, or visit the animals at Taronga Zoo. Beaches like Manly and Bondi are perfect for swimming and sandcastle building, while the Royal Botanic Garden offers plenty of space for a picnic.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Sydney?

    For day trips from Sydney, consider exploring the Blue Mountains National Park, famous for its dramatic landscapes, or visiting the wine region of Hunter Valley. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island is also a unique destination, offering a glimpse into Sydney's convict and shipbuilding history.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in Sydney?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Sydney. From over 8,700 house rentals to over 15,610 apartment rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

  • How much does it cost to stay in tiny house rentals in Sydney?

    Experience the best of Sydney with our tiny house rentals, starting at about $20 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

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