Hotel Challis Potts Point

Hotel Challis Potts Point Overview

So I’ve walked past Hotel Challis probably a hundred times on my way to and from Kings Cross station, and honestly, I always wondered what it was like inside. Well, I finally stayed there last month and – you know what? – it’s actually a pretty solid choice if you want to be right in the thick of things without paying those ridiculous Circular Quay prices. The building itself has this sort of understated charm that fits perfectly with Potts Point’s slightly edgy, slightly sophisticated vibe. I mean, you’re literally on Challis Avenue, which is basically the main artery between all the good stuff – those little wine bars tucked away on Macleay Street, the vintage shops, and yeah, the occasional 2am kebab run.

The thing that struck me most was how quiet my room was considering you’re basically surrounded by some of Sydney’s busiest nightlife. I was expecting to hear every conversation from the street below, but the windows actually do their job pretty well. The rooms themselves are… look, they’re not going to win any design awards, but they’re clean and functional in that “I can actually spread out my stuff” kind of way. What I really appreciated was the little touches – decent water pressure in the shower (thank god), and the air conditioning that doesn’t sound like a freight train. The staff at reception were genuinely helpful too, not just going through the motions. When I asked about the best way to get to Bondi without dealing with the chaos of Central Station, the guy actually drew me a little map showing the bus route from Elizabeth Bay Road.

Here’s the thing about staying in Potts Point though – and this is something you only really get after spending time here – you’re in this perfect sweet spot where you can walk to the Royal Botanic Gardens in fifteen minutes, grab amazing coffee on Darlinghurst Road, and still feel like you’re experiencing the “real” Sydney, not just the tourist version. The hotel sits right in the middle of all this, and honestly, for a 3-star place, it punches above its weight. I wouldn’t call it luxurious, but it’s got that reliable, unpretentious quality that makes you want to come back. Plus, there’s something to be said for being able to walk home after a night out in the Cross instead of waiting forever for an Uber. Just be aware that weekend nights can get pretty lively on the street – not obnoxiously loud, just… energetic. If you’re the type who needs complete silence to sleep, maybe pack some earplugs. But if you want to feel connected to one of Sydney’s most interesting neighborhoods without breaking the bank, this place gets it right.

Hotel Challis Potts Point Accommodations

Reviews of Hotel Challis Potts Point

• Superb – Kirsty from New Zealand – 12 July 2025 (9/10)

  Very comfortable bed
  
  What could be improved: Small room, but adequate

• Superb – Eunji from South Korea – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

  Very cozy and clean
  
  What could be improved: No water in the room

• Amazing location, boutique vibes – Brooklin from United States – 7 July 2025 (9/10)

  Good Vibes Good Location. Comfy bed.
  
  What could be improved: TV was a bit sad – only free to air and the channels didn’t work well. I imagine most people don’t plan spending too much time in the rooms to watch TV though.

• Perfect location, with good rates. Would stay again but request a room looming out on to the courtyard (and not a stairw – Myee from Australia – 5 July 2025 (8/10)

  Newly painted white walls gave a fresh clean look. Looking out onto the courtyard. Quiet location but close to the CBD.
  
  What could be improved: The carpet is awful and doesn’t suit the style at all. Looks more like a video arcade/bowling alley carpet!
  No access to the coffee/tea area after hours. Would be nice to be able to sit there with a cuppa. It’s the only place in the whole building.

• Very pretty boutique hotel – Vicky from Australia – 25 June 2025 (8/10)

  It’s very pretty although my room was very small. Bed was super comfy! I made a review video on my travel YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/shorts/b9gHVimVSac?si=h5lfbrdzp3gnXZ_U
  Enjoy!
  (If you are worried about clicking on the link my channel is NonStopTravelVV)
  
  What could be improved: The views from my room.

• Enjoyed my stay – clean tidy room, cosy bed for winter, great location – Kimberley from Australia – 22 June 2025 (8/10)

  Facilities were clean and tidy. Beautiful old building.
  Great location.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Excellent choice in Potts Point – Justin from Australia – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location; beautifully appointed; friendly staff; comfortable stay
  
  What could be improved: Stairs everywhere, including the room

• Fabulous place to stay in Sydney, great neighbourhood – Angela from Australia – 16 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location within easy walk of the Opera House and the Botanical Gardens. There are lots of cafes, restaurants and shops within 2 minutes walk. The hotel building is beautiful. Really comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: The shower in our room was very tight to get into. We are both size medium in clothes and it was a very tight fit to get into the shower. If you’re pregnant I would ask for a room with easier shower access! (We were in room 401)

• Very happy – Janet from Australia – 9 June 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful gracious building in a wonderful location

• Awesome boutique hotel – Rezin from New Zealand – 4 June 2025 (9/10)

  The location was the best part. Potts point is very convenient to walk to circular quay and kings cross station. The property itself has a Victorian charm and the way it is designed and even how the air fragrance used is awesome.
  
  What could be improved: The rooms were not sound proof. I could hear people walking around in the other rooms.

Surroundings

Facilities