9 Excellent Newcastle Hotels For Your Next Stay

Explore our pick of the best places to stay in Newcastle to suit every type of traveller.

Whether you’re in town to soak up the sun and surf the waves at Newcastle’s incredible beaches, want to immerse yourself in the local arts scene, or are ready to drink and dine your way around the former Steel City, there are ample hotels in Newcastle to choose from. Here you’ll find the perfect place to lay your head with this guide to Newcastle hotels, from luxury stays to family-friendly apartments.

1. QT Newcastle

Cool and quirky vibes are what sets QT Hotels apart and its Newcastle property is no different, balancing eccentricity and elegance superbly.

colourful lights outside the elevator in the lobby of QT Newcastle — QT Newcastle is renowned for its boundary-pushing design.

The opening of QT Newcastle gave the city’s heritage-listed David Jones building a new lease on life (Deluxe King room image also featured at top), thanks to a colossal $700-million investment into the East End district and Hunter Street Mall. The interiors ooze playfulness, with striking colours and textural details, all hinging on the building’s glamourous century-old heritage.

the king room with a balcony at QT Newcastle — The QT King room with balcony offers a luxurious stay.

Living large is the aim at QT, from the moment you are greeted by QT’s signature Director of Chaos – who fills the traditional role of a concierge, costumed in bold Romance Is Born-designed uniforms – to a nightcap at the rooftop bar, which stocks an impressive array of Japanese whiskeys and gins accompanied by views of Newcastle’s envious coastline.

the rooftop bar at QT Newcastle — Chill at the rooftop bar come sundown.

2. Crystalbrook Kingsley

After a staggering transformation, Newcastle’s former council administration building went from drab offices to the city’s first five-star hotel , under the helm of Crystalbrook Collection.

the master bathroom at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle — Find elegant and lavish interiors in Crystalbrook Kingsley.

Close to Newcastle Harbour and foodie-friendly Darby Street, the 1977-built circular Brutalist building is a contrast to what lies within: luxe interiors, fine food and wine, and attentive, warm service.

rooftop views at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle — Gaze at scenic views from its rooftop restaurant.

The iconic building’s namesake restaurant, Roundhouse, is perched on the hotel’s top floor, posing as a stylish dining destination alongside Romberg’s cocktail bar with far-stretching views of the buzzy city below.

a couple sitting beside each other on a couch at Romberg's, Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle — Curl up on the couch with a cocktail in hand at Romberg’s.

The hotel’s 130 rooms boast views of the city, Newcastle’s Civic Park (where the epic Olive Tree Markets are held), or the bustling harbour, and have been thoughtfully designed in soft tones and premium furnishings.

the bedroom interior at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle — The curtains open up to incredible views of the city.

At the heart of every Crystalbrook Collection hotel is a commitment to sustainability: think reduced plastics, tech over paper, waste-free bathroom amenities and water stations on every floor to refill your bottles, meaning your feel-fancy stay is a feel-good one, too.

the Romberg's at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle — Drink up at Romberg’s.

3. Novotel Newcastle Beach

Ocean lovers will find solace in this East End hotel , an easy walk to Newcastle Beach, home to an epic surf break, glorious Art Deco ocean baths and a shallow tidal pool that is perfect for families.

the indoor pool at Novotel Newcastle Beach — Freshen up in the morning with a soak in the pool. (Image: Crave New Media)

The rooms exude a simple and clean design, and range from those with harbour views, a balcony to catch the ocean breeze or can sleep a family of four comfortably.

dining on the balcony with ocean views at Novotel Newcastle Beach — Dine on the balcony fronting the ocean at Novotel Newcastle Beach. (Image: Crave New Media)

While you’re within a stone’s throw of dining options, the hotel’s bistro is open for breakfast and seasonal dinner, and there’s a gym and pool for wellness beyond the beach.

a kids' corner inside the room at Novotel Newcastle Beach — There’s even a kids’ corner for your little ones. (Image: Crave New Media)

4. Holiday Inn Express

Ever muttered the words, “It’s just a place to sleep," when scrolling through overpriced hotel options for short stays or business trips? Enter Holiday Inn Express in Newcastle West : a convenient and fuss-free stay, where you’ll find both affordability, cool design and comfort.

the lobby at Holiday Inn Express, Newcastle — Seek solace at Holiday Inn Express.

All guest rooms are modern, light and airy, there’s a fitness centre, and a lobby lounge, where a complimentary buffet breakfast is provided to all guests, and lunch and dinner are also served. Or if you’ve clocked off cooking duties, take the easy 10-minute walk to Honeysuckle precinct, where you’ll find a plethora of harbourside drinking and dining options.

the dining at Holiday Inn Express, Newcastle — Enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast.

5. Quest Newcastle West

When travelling as a family or if you’re planning to linger a little longer, kitchen and laundry facilities are not only convenient, but they are also non-negotiables. Quest Newcastle West comprises studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, all with a kitchenette or fully equipped kitchen and laundry. Winning!

the two-bedroom accommodation with kitchen and dining at Quest Newcastle West — Quest Newcastle West offers all the conveniences of home.

Beyond the checked boxes, this property in Newcastle West is full of heritage charm. Located within the 1876-built former Woods Castlemaine Brewery, it retains original fixtures such as restored wooden beams and windows, while the apartments are contemporary yet comfy. There’s also a barbecue area if you want to cook alfresco or you can dine out at some of the many local restaurants and charge the bill back to your room.

the kitchen inside the one-bedroom accommodation at Quest Newcastle West — All rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen.

6. Rydges Newcastle

Located smack-bang in the middle of Newcastle’s Honeysuckle precinct – once former industrial wasteland now packed with places to eat and drink and a scenic foreshore to stroll – Rydges Newcastle flies the flag for location.

the waterfront restaurant at Rydges Newcastle — Find stylish harbour dining at Rydges Newcastle.

With spacious suites, some boasting balconies, an on-site restaurant and bar, outdoor play area, and a swimming pool and waterslide with views across to the harbour, it’s especially pleasing for travellers with kids.

the Rydges Newcastle located by the side of the road — Rydges Newcastle flies the flag for location.

Bikes are available for hire, so you can explore the foreshore on two wheels: follow the path around to Nobbys Lighthouse and beach or Newcastle Ocean Baths for a refreshing dip.

a suite with a balcony at Rydges Newcastle — Stay in a suite with a balcony overlooking the harbour.

7. Ibis Newcastle

If you’re filtering your search from lowest to highest price, you’ll likely scroll to Ibis Newcastle . This affordable hotel is roughly a 10-minute walk to both Honeysuckle Foreshore and buzzy dining options of Hunter Street Mall.

If you want to go further afield, it’s also located near a light rail station. Rooms are simple with the bare essentials, but there’s a restaurant on-site serving a buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a bar.

the property exterior of Ibis Newcastle — Head to Ibis Newcastle if you’re looking for an affordable place to stay.

8. Noah’s on the Beach

Wake up to the sight of a cerulean ocean sparkling under the morning sun at Noah’s on the Beach , the city’s only beachfront hotel, across from Newcastle Beach and its iconic art deco ocean baths.

While the hotel interiors are a little dated, the floor-to-ceiling windows in the guest rooms that frame the Pacific Ocean well and truly make up for it. Aside from the ocean-view rooms, Noah’s on the Beach also has harbour-view rooms and city-view rooms, family rooms, and Noah’s Restaurant, which is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Beach bums will love this hotel, but it’s also close to the urban centre via light rail, and the six-kilometre Bathers Way walk that traces the coastline from Nobbys Lighthouse to neighbouring Merewether Beach.

9. Crown on Darby

Darby Street has long been a cultural hotspot for dining, drinking, shopping and art. Have it all within easy stride with a stay at Crown on Darby , located in the historic inner-city suburb of Cooks Hill.

the room interior at Crown on Darby, Newcastle — Crown on Darby has rooms spacious enough for families.

Crown on Darby comprises studios and one- to four-bedroom apartments, meaning it’s perfect for longer stays or for families and groups travelling to Newcastle together. The rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with kitchenettes or kitchens; not that you’ll be needing those facilities with the excellent dining scene nearby.

Spend days browsing Newcastle’s art scene, paying tribute to Novocastrian designers and creatives, with a huge concentration of local boutiques and art galleries in the area.

the bedroom studio at Crown on Darby, Newcastle — Get a good night’s sleep before heading off to explore the city.

For more places to stay, read our wrap of Newcastle accommodation and Airbnb stays in Newcastle.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

9 excellent hotels in Newcastle for your next stay