Darlington Hideaway – Close to everything

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about the Darlington Hideaway? The name actually makes sense – it really does feel like a proper hideaway, even though you’re basically in the thick of everything Sydney has to offer. I mean, Ivy Street isn’t exactly a main drag, but you’re literally a five-minute walk from Darling Harbour and all that waterfront action. The building itself has this understated charm that doesn’t scream “tourist hotel,” which I honestly appreciated after staying at some of those flashy places that feel like theme parks.

The location is genuinely clever – you’re tucked away enough that you don’t get the constant foot traffic and street noise that comes with being right on the harbour, but close enough that you can wander over for dinner without thinking twice about it. I found myself walking to the fish markets most mornings (maybe ten minutes if you take your time), and there’s this little coffee spot on the corner that the front desk guy recommended – turns out half the neighbourhood gets their morning fix there. The rooms have that comfortable, lived-in feel without being shabby, and whoever designed the lighting actually understood that travelers need to see what they’re packing. Small thing, but you’d be surprised how many places get that wrong.

What really sold me on this place was how the staff seemed to know Sydney beyond just the obvious tourist spots. When I mentioned I was looking for good live music, the woman at reception didn’t just hand me a generic brochure – she actually asked what kind of music I was into and suggested this jazz bar in Surry Hills that I never would have found otherwise. The whole experience felt less like staying at a hotel and more like crashing at a friend’s place who happens to live in a fantastic neighbourhood. Sure, it’s not the fanciest place you’ll ever stay, but honestly? That 9.2 rating isn’t just about thread count and marble bathrooms – it’s about actually feeling comfortable in a city that can sometimes feel overwhelming when you’re visiting. The wifi worked perfectly (crucial for keeping in touch with work), the air conditioning didn’t sound like a jet engine, and I slept better than I have in months. Sometimes the best hideaway is the one that just gets the basics right while putting you exactly where you want to be.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $353. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Nice apartment with lots of opportunities but a bit too expensive. – Juergen from China – 6 January 2025 (8/10)

  Functionality , cleanliness , very good staff very professional
  
  What could be improved: The price – and the room in the basement needs urgently an Air-condition!

• Superb – Denia from United States – 13 June 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, clean and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: We're senior citizens and the stairs were a bit tough for us.

• Letting agency staff are so helpful and accommodating. The property is in a great location. – Angela from United Kingdom – 1 September 2023 (9/10)

  Location was great and accommodation was a decent size. Perfect for what we needed.
  
  What could be improved: Kitchen was dated with some cupboards not closing easily and bathrooms were also dated. We found the bathroom was not clean or particularly hygienic due to age.

• Superb – Wei from China – 10 December 2024 (9/10)

  location个，service

• Viihtyisä lomakoti mukavassa kaupunginosassa – Marjaana from Finland – 24 November 2024 (10/10)

  Tilava, siisti ja hyvä sijainti
  
  What could be improved: Kaikki oli hyvin

• Exceptional – Xiaochun from Australia – 13 August 2024 (10/10)

• Superb – Crimasao from New Caledonia – 26 January 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities