10 best luxury hotels in cities across Australia

Ideal for: Walking among the clouds with the city’s pulse at your feet

This sky-high sanctuary redefines relaxed luxury, with its seamless blend of refinement and comfort. The rooms are spacious, the service eagle-eyed and the food and drink offering is world-class, yet uniquely Australian. A visit here wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the Ritz-Carlton Spa and the remarkable indoor infinity pool – both easily ranking among the best in Australia. 

Why we love it:

• The pool level. In addition to the spectacular Level 64 infinity pool, guests also have access to magnesium baths, steam rooms and saunas.
• The amenities. Only The Ritz-Carlton serves up Diptyque products as standard. 
• Antique cocktails at Cameo. Cocktail mastery reaches another level with antique and rare spirits, including 1976 Beefeater Gin and 1940 Cointreau.

Ideal for: Fans of impeccably run, high-end luxury

Capella’s first Australian property is a knockout with its unbeatable combination of magnificent heritage features, state-of-the-art modernity and prime CBD location. The 192 guest rooms and suites lean into the calming, soothing end of the luxury spectrum via high ceilings, timber floors and neutral colours, while the service is crisp, professional and friendly.

Why we love it: 

• The art. Capella Sydney boasts an incredible Australian art collection. 
• Curated experiences. The Capella Curates program tailors individual experiences for guests. 
• The wellness offerings. Indulge in the world-class Auriga spa or enjoy a dip in the heated indoor pools.  

Ideal for: Grown-up getaways and group celebrations 

The Calile has set the standard for urban resort glamour, with its mid-century curves, palette of pink and Palm Springs energy with a distinct Australian accent. You’ll find the staff here as sunny and relaxed as the setting itself – even when the hotel is pumping, which is most days. For food, our pick is Hellenika, where Greek flavours meet polished poolside dining.

Why we love it: 

• The pool. Yes, it may be a honeypot for influencers but when you’re lounging poolside and sipping a perfectly chilled glass of Assyrtiko, there’s no better place to be. 

• Breakfast at Hellenika. Order the avgolemono.

• The location. From designer stores to award-winning dining, the best of Brisbane is on your doorstep. No Ubers required. 

Ideal for: Sophisticated city staycations

Australia’s only Como Hotel occupies one of Perth’s – and Australia’s – most beautiful premises: the opulent, 19th-century State Buildings. The complex’s heritage design means rooms have soaring high ceilings and are luxuriously spacious. Every detail at Como The Treasury – from the fragrant bath salts provided by the onsite Shambhala Spa to the botanical watercolours by local artists – is the pinnacle of quiet luxury. 

Why we love it:

• The pool and spa. Lazy laps in the top-floor indoor pool is an invigorating way to start the day, while the famous Como Shambhala wellness space is a low-lit sanctuary for tranquility.
• The bathrooms. It’s impossible to overstate the generosity of the ensuite bathrooms in every room category.
• The floristry. The deeply considered use of Western Australian natives gives the rooms, suites and common areas at Como The Treasury an eye-catching – and fragrant – sense of place. 

Ideal for: Couples and business travellers looking for a city stay with a luxury edge

The Tasman, the first of Marriott’s Luxury Collection brand in Australia, seamlessly blends Hobart heritage, art deco details and modern design into a charming mélange of old and new. The modern wing is crisp and clean, while the heritage wing is notable for its sky-high ceilings and offbeat vintage nooks and crannies. The hotel’s Italian restaurant, Peppina, is always packed with an upbeat mix of locals and tourists, and the always-reliable Marriott service is personable and professional.

Why we love it: 

• The location. A 10-minute walk from the harbourfront, Salamanca Markets and the city’s top restaurants, The Tasman has a lock on Hobart’s best location.

• The bar. Mary Mary bar is a real vibe, tucked into a clubby, windowless speakeasy space that was once part of the old hospital.

• The little mysteries. If you keep your eyes open, particularly in the heritage wing, you’ll find oddball nooks and off-kilter bits and pieces everywhere.

Ideal for: Staycation glamour

Sydney’s The Eve is an urban oasis offering stellar dining and polished service in a vibrant city location. The rooftop pool, surrounded by shaded cabanas, brings city resort glamour to Redfern, while a plethora of first-class dining options ensures The Eve caters to both locals and visitors alike.

Why we love it: 

• The precinct. The key to a good urban resort is not having to drive anywhere. Everything you need to enjoy a weekend (or mid-week) escape is right on your doorstep.
• The serenity. Superb acoustic design ensures a peaceful night’s sleep, no matter how lively the surrounding precinct. 
• Bar Julius. The all-day dining spot is a vibe – in large part thanks to the arched Barrisol ceiling by artist Louise Olsen. 

Ideal for: A luxe staycation for lie-in lovers and hotel breakfast fans

In a city full of hotels, there’s a case to be made for subtlety — and The Langham’s Sydney outpost hits the mark with all the lush touchpoints associated with the five-star hotel brand. Even the most basic rooms at The Langham are dressed to impress with king beds fitted in Frette linens, generous bathrooms with custom Diptyque amenities, and fresh flowers sitting pretty in decorative vases. Come morning, the lavish buffet breakfast is second to none.

Why we love it: 

• The location. Take a break from the bustle in a beautifully appointed room, but have the city at your fingertips. 
• The spa. Serene, inviting, and a non-negotiable for staycationers.
• The rooms. Expansive at even a basic level, it’s a tough ask to leave.

Ideal for: Romantic getaways and group adventures 

Emulating the former shipping shed that once occupied its Macquarie Wharf location, cedar-clad MACq 01 is a unique – and uniquely – Tasmanian hotel. Rooms are light-filled, chicly furnished and decorated with work from local artists, and complete with balconies that make use of the hotel’s plum waterfront location.

Why we love it: 

• The location. MACq 01’s central spot grants easy walking-distance access to the city’s highlights. 
• The Lounge. The perfect spot to relax with its central open fire and kelp-inspired ceiling sculpture. 
• Walking tours. These themed and guided strolls around Hobart are free to guests. 

Ideal for: An urban retreat in the heart of Melbourne’s action

A five-star art deco retreat in the heart of the city, Le Méridien Melbourne is housed in a former MGM Cinema. Keeping in theme, in-house restaurant Dolly serves up golden age vibes, while the inviting rooms boast clean lines, walnut accents and artful pops of colour. But the biggest, splashiest reason to book here is on the roof, where Le Splash Pool Bar and a sun-soaked heated pool overlook Fitzroy Gardens.  

Why we love it: 

• The location. Just steps from some of Melbourne’s most celebrated bars and restaurants, this is the best hotel address in town.  
• The pool. Heated to a perfect 28 degrees, the rooftop pool is the ideal spot to unwind after a busy day of meetings or big day of shopping.  
• The serenity. Once you’re ensconced in your room, not a peep will be heard. Top marks for soundproofing.  

Ideal for: Hanging out even if you aren’t staying in-house

The Ace Hotel Sydney has cemented itself as the go-to stay for cool creatives, fashion types and city rollers keen to see and be seen. The good news? It also delivers casual comfort, friendly vibes and standalone dining options. Despite the cool credentials, it’s mercifully friendly and down to earth, with an ‘if-you-know-you-know’ vibe of a private members club.  

Why we love it: 

• The lobby. Ace Hotel Sydney is stacked with incredible artwork, couches for lounging and people for spotting.  
• Cosy suites. The small but perfectly formed rooms have comfortable beds and flattering lighting.  
• The location. Ace is mere moments from Oxford Street and the gritty glam of Surry Hills.