Hotel Review: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay

Spectacular views, spacious rooms, and a prime location can be found at the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay.

When it comes to dependable comfort, certain hotel chains stand out, and Marriott is undeniably one of them. The Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay epitomises this sentiment offering spectacular views, spacious rooms, and convenience. Here’s everything you need to know before you book, whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with your family.

Location

Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay is a 20-minute drive from the airport, conveniently located in Circular Quay. Its prime position makes it one of the best hotels in Sydney for business travellers working in the CBD or those wishing to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.

an aerial view of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — The Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel is conveniently located in Circular Quay.

Circular Quay is bordered by Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden. A precinct rich in Australian history and great food, you’ll find everything here including the Circular Quay Wharf, the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and world-class restaurants such as Oborozuki . The iconic ferry terminals and Circular Quay train station are a short five-minute walk away.

If you’re travelling to Sydney for Vivid, The Marriott is perfectly placed to get involved with the festivities.

harbour views at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — A stay at this hotel gives you direct access to the city’s iconic landmarks.

Style and character

Built in 1989 and revamped in 2017, the Sydney Harbour Marriott epitomises Sydney luxury. As one of the city’s most established accommodations, it stands as a venerable landmark. For locals, the iconic triangular-shaped skyscraper is a familiar feature of the skyline, seamlessly blending historical significance with modern elegance.

the lobby of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — The design epitomises Sydney luxury.

Guests arriving at the hotel are greeted by an expansive and sleek foyer which sets the tone for the rest of the accommodation. A handsome palette of dark timber, black panelling and white marble elevates the overall ambience. Moving through the building brings you to the central dining space which anchors the hotel. An architectural staircase and modern pendant lights tower above and make for a stunning focal point that draws the eyes up.

Guestrooms boast the same spacious and elegant style but with a lighter palette that reflects the surrounding harbour.

a dining table facing a window overlooking the Sydney Harbour — The elegant style of the hotel complements the surrounding harbour.

Facilities

Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel boasts the premium facilities you’d expect from a 5-star hotel including an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, three dining venues (more on that to come), a terrace, 15 event spaces and valet parking. Keen to explore beyond the CBD? There’s an AVIS car rental desk conveniently located within the hotel as well.

the pool at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Take a relaxing dip at the hotel’s indoor swimming pool.

Rooms

The 595 guestrooms and 52 suites range from comfortable king rooms to expansive split-level loft suites. Modern and spacious, they feature a subdued palette of blues, creams and browns which bring a decidedly sophisticated and calm feel to the accommodation – perfect for unwinding after a busy day in the office or exploring the city.

The bi-level presidential suite aptly features a more royal palette of purple, red and green across two bedrooms, a kitchen, a separate living area and a separate dining area.

the room interior of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — The light, neutral palette brings a sophisticated and calm feel to the accommodation.

All rooms have views – whether of the skyline, the Sydney Opera House or the Sydney Harbour Bridge – which make you feel truly immersed in the city. The bathrooms aren’t as modern as the bedroom and living rooms, but they are well-maintained and roomy with some featuring spa baths.

the bedroom at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Indulge in modern elegance with a view of the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Food and drinks

While the city is thriving with eateries, those looking for convenience or the comfort of staying within the hotel can choose from three dining venues on the ground level: Silvester’s, Three Bottle Man and Custom’s House Bar. All-day restaurant Silvester’s offers a buffet breakfast with all the usuals, as well as casual modern Australian dining. For lunch and dinner expect elevated dishes driven by the changing seasons which can be paired with over 80 different wines on offer.

the beer garden at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Nab a spot in the sunny beer garden.

Three Bottleman is the hotel’s cafe by day and bar by night. Grab a coffee before you head off for the day and settle into the night with tipples like the refreshing Salty Breeze with vodka, strawberry puree and mint

A popular after-work spot for office workers, Customs House Bar is a buzzy gastropub that adjoins the hotel. Sit within the heritage-listed building or nab a spot in the sunny beer garden with a pint and some classic pub fare, or join for the Bubble Happy Hour Monday to Friday from 4pm to 6pm.

breakfast at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Settle into your suite with in-room breakfast. (Image: Rachael Thompson)

Does the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay have access for guests with disabilities?

Accessibility-friendly rooms are available at the Marriott Sydney Hotel. These offer features like wide doorways, roll-in showers and grab bars. Services like accessible parking and assistance with special requests are also available. The swimming pool and dining venues also feature accessible entrances.

one of the suites at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Enjoy stunning views and modern amenities in your private retreat.

Is the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay family-friendly?

Adjoining rooms are available upon request and the guest rooms with two double beds are perfect for families.

The Marriot Sydney’s M-Passport Family Package is a great option for families. The offer includes a buffet breakfast for two adults and two children under 12 daily at Silvester’s restaurant, a $50 food and beverage credit per night, late check-out and a kids activity welcome pack.

the living space interior of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — Marriott offers spacious modern rooms designed for comfort and relaxation.

Details

Best for: Business travellers and families
Address: 30 Pitt St, Sydney
Price: From $339

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

Comfort and convenience await at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel