Staying at 790 on George puts you right in the pulse of Sydney's most vibrant cultural hub. Whether you're a foodie on a budget or looking for that perfect Instagram shot, Haymarket and Chinatown have something happening 24/7.
Forget the expensive tourist traps, here are the top 5 local experiences you can reach in less than a 5-minute walk from our front door.
1. Get a Bargain at Paddy's Markets
Distance from 790: 3-minute walk
No trip to Sydney is complete without a wander through the iconic Paddy's Markets. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it's the ultimate place to snag cheap souvenirs, quirky gadgets, and budget-friendly Aussie gear.
- Pro tip: if you're cooking in our communal kitchen, head to the back section for some of the cheapest fresh fruit and veg in the city!
2. Feast at the Chinatown Friday Night Markets
Distance from 790: 4-minute walk
Every Friday from 5:00pm, Dixon Street transforms into a neon-lit street food paradise. From sizzling wagyu skewers and dragon beard candy to the famous "Emperor's Puffs" (custard-filled goodness), it's the best way to eat your way through Asia without leaving Sydney.
3. Discover "The Exchange" at Darling Square
Distance from 790: 5-minute walk
Just behind Chinatown is Sydney's newest precinct, Darling Square. You can't miss The Exchange, it's the circular building wrapped in 20km of wood that looks like a giant bird's nest. It's home to a library with free high-speed tech and "Maker's Dozen," a food hall filled with everything from spicy ramen to bubble tea.
4. Find Zen at the Chinese Garden of Friendship
Distance from 790: 6-minute walk
Need a break from the city noise? Step inside this secret walled garden. For a small entry fee, you can wander past waterfalls, koi ponds, and traditional pagodas. It's the ultimate spot to relax with a book or enjoy a traditional tea service while feeling miles away from the George Street bustle.
5. Explore Thaitown & Koreatown (Right Next Door!)
Distance from 790: 0-minute walk (you're already there!)
Haymarket isn't just about Chinatown. Our hostel is situated in the "Golden Triangle" of Asian cuisine.
- Late night: we are located right above Five Star Kebabs, but if you turn the corner, you'll find late-night Korean BBQ and authentic Thai spots like Chat Thai that stay open until the early hours.
Bonus Tip: Vivid Sydney is Coming!
Starting May 22, 2026, the Vivid Sydney light festival will take over Darling Harbour (just a short stroll away). Expect massive light projections, drone shows, and free outdoor music. Staying at 790 on George means you can walk to the shows and avoid the nightmare of event-day public transport!
Why stay anywhere else? At 790 on George, you aren't just booking a bed; you're booking a front-row seat to the best of Sydney.
