Sydney: Where to Stay: Luxury: Park Hyatt Sydney

Park Hyatt Sydney

Sydney’s ultimate dress-circle property, the Park Hyatt is ideally situated in the harbor and boasts unbeatable views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The taupe-on-beige decor isn’t particularly memorable, but the location can’t be beat and the service is flawless and friendly, so you feel like a long cherished guest within hours of checking in. Most of the 158 rooms come with terraces but the Park ones don’t face the water. Ask for one so you can slide open the glass doors in the morning and enjoy breakfast outside with a view of the sails of the Opera House and of the boats out for an early cruise. The airy HarbourKitchen&Bar serves up freshly shucked oysters and warm seafood salad as well as fabulous Harbour views. Come evening, the scene at the Club Bar—including overstuffed sofas—resembles a 19th-century gentlemen’s club. Celebrities like it here (the staff are known for their discretion), so you may spot a famous face or two. Rooms from $495.