Shangri-La Sydney is a high-rise luxury hotel on Cumberland Street in The Rocks, with 565 rooms, an indoor pool, the Chi Spa and a gym. Its location puts you in the oldest part of the city: Sydney Observatory is a two-minute walk away, Circular Quay three, and the Rocks Markets, the Big Dig archaeology centre and the Museum of Contemporary Art within about five. The Harbour Bridge is around twelve minutes on foot and the Opera House about sixteen. Wynyard and Circular Quay stations are roughly six and seven minutes away, and Sydney Airport is a drive of about twenty minutes. On site, there are two restaurants, including one on the 36th floor that takes advantage of the height, a bar and a coffee shop. Other amenities include free in-room Wi-Fi, air conditioning, limousine and town car service, a terrace, laundry and dry cleaning, and buffet breakfast for an additional charge. The hotel also has 20 meeting rooms and a banquet hall, so it often hosts events, and valet parking is available for a daily fee.
Why stay here
Height and position are the draw. A tower in a historic neighbourhood means that, above the lower levels, rooms can look across the harbour or the city, and the guest-room outlook is a large part of the experience, so ask about harbour views when you book. The walk down to Circular Quay takes a few minutes, and from there ferries leave for Manly, Taronga and Watsons Bay.
It is also a good base for evenings in the Rocks, where the sandstone lanes, pubs and restaurants are close at hand, and for visitors who enjoy a spa session after a day of walking.
Planning notes
The indoor pool is open limited hours, and the Chi Spa offers massages, scrubs and aromatherapy, which are worth booking in advance at busy times. Breakfast is a paid extra, so weigh it against local cafes. Valet parking carries a daily charge, so travelling by train, ferry or on foot is more economical.
Because the hotel hosts conferences, lobby and lifts can be busy on weekdays, and rates rise sharply around major events and holidays. Choose a higher floor for views, and check which restaurant and bar are open on the dates of your stay.
Who it suits and trade-offs
Couples, business travellers and families who want service and facilities in the heart of the Rocks will find it a good fit. As with all large luxury towers, the atmosphere is polished rather than intimate, and the tourist crowds of the Rocks and Circular Quay can be dense at weekends.
If you want a boutique feel, Potts Point or Surry Hills have smaller hotels, and if you prefer a beach base, Bondi or Manly are better choices. For a first visit with the Observatory, the Quay and the harbour on your doorstep, it is a strong option.
Why stay here
- ✓Indoor pool
- ✓Chi Spa
- ✓Gym
- ✓36th-floor restaurant
- ✓Bar and coffee shop
- ✓Free in-room Wi-Fi
- ✓Limousine and town car service
- ✓Walk to Circular Quay
Good questions
How far is Shangri-La Sydney from Circular Quay?+
About a three-minute walk to Circular Quay, with the Rocks Markets and the Observatory also within a few minutes on foot.
Does the hotel have a pool and spa?+
Yes. There is an indoor pool, the Chi Spa and a gym. Check opening hours and treatment availability when you book.
Is there a restaurant with views?+
The hotel has two restaurants, including one on the 36th floor, as well as a bar and a coffee shop. Check opening days and times for your stay.
