PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney

Pros

• You'll find yourself conveniently located at the nexus of the CBD, Darling Harbour, and Chinatown, with some of the city's best dining, nightlife, and transport links on your doorstep.
• Rooms are neutral and spacious, many with large windows and scenic views over the city and harbor.
• The breakfast buffet is considered one of Sydney's best, and the split-level ABODE Bistro Bar serves modern Aussie fare in a stylish setting.
• Higher Club floor rooms provide access to the PARKROYAL Club, with complimentary breakfast, drinks, and canapés available throughout the day.
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Cons

• The hotel's overall feel is international and corporate, so this isn't the place for those looking for local charm.
• Some rooms may have limited views due to the hotel's location between a road bridge and another large hotel.

Authenticity

The PARKROYAL Darling Harbour is part of the large PARKROYAL hotel chain, and its steady stream of business travelers tends to be drawn to the property's convenience and comfort rather than local charm and historic character. The decor is sleek and simple, with spacious, neutral rooms and plush, well-lit common areas. There's a small nod to the location in the rooms' floral designs, which evoke local Australian flowers, and you might spot touches of local history in the large breakfast room, which was once the home of an early 19th-century steam flour mill. 

Location

Situated at the junction of Sydney's CBD (Central Business District), Darling Harbour, and Chinatown, the hotel is well-placed for both business and sightseeing. It's a short 5-minute walk to Town Hall Station, where you can hop on a train to reach Circular Quay, The Rocks, or the Sydney Opera House in under 20 minutes. The bustling surroundings offer a mix of dining options, from affordable Chinatown eateries to upscale CBD restaurants, and Darling Harbour's vibrant nightlife is just a short stroll away. It's a quick 15-minute drive to the airport, and the hotel offers on-site parking at an added fee.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The property's 300+ rooms are styled in neutral, earthy tones like gray, olive, and charcoal, with a few splashes of color and floral motifs inspired by Australian flora. Bathrooms are spacious and pristine, featuring sleek tiling, oversized rainwater showerheads, and excellent water pressure. Suites offer more space with separate living areas and a sofabed, while Club rooms on the higher floors have the best views in the house, overlooking Darling Harbour and the city skyline, and include access to a private lounge.

Amenities

There's no pool or spa, but a fully equipped fitness room is available to guests. A breakfast buffet is served each morning in BARKERS, a dining space that once housed an 18th-century flour mill, and offerings include barista-made coffee, local breads, and homemade omelets. Lunch and dinner options are available at ABODE, a popular spot for modern Aussie-style cuisine amid whitewashed paneling, pendant-style lighting, and low booths. The hotel also features a private PARKROYAL Club for guests in the Club rooms and suites, where you'll find drinks and canapés throughout the day. 

Family-Friendliness

The hotel welcomes families, though it caters mostly to business and international travelers and none of its amenities are particularly tailored for children. Babysitting services, cribs, and extra beds are available for a surcharge. Suites are the best bet for families, with an extra sofabed and more space, and the Mill Suite features a full kitchen for those looking to self-cater.