InterContinental Sydney, an IHG Hotel is a five-star harbourside hotel at 117 Macquarie Street, on the corner of Bridge Street in the Sydney CBD, a short walk from Circular Quay. The modern tower rises above the restored 1851 Treasury Building, a sandstone colonial landmark designed by Colonial Architect Mortimer Lewis. Travelers stay here for harbour views, quick walking access to the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Garden, and event spaces popular for conferences and weddings.
What to Expect at InterContinental Sydney
The hotel opened in 1985 and kept the Treasury Building’s facades, arcaded sandstone walls and interior courtyard. That courtyard is now the Cortile, a glass-roofed lounge used for breakfast, afternoon tea and evening drinks. Above it, the tower holds guest rooms and suites that face the harbour, the Royal Botanic Garden or the city skyline. The higher floors look over the Opera House sails and the Harbour Bridge.
Room tiers run from city-view King and Twin rooms to harbour-view rooms and suites. Club InterContinental rooms add access to a private upper-floor lounge with breakfast, all-day refreshments and evening canapés. Couples usually book harbour-view rooms. Business travelers value the club lounge and the ballroom and meeting floors, which handle everything from board meetings to large weddings. The indoor pool, gym and rooftop bar sit on the upper levels with sweeping views.
- Treasury Building Heritage: An 1851 sandstone colonial treasury built into the hotel’s lower levels.
- The Cortile: A glass-roofed courtyard lounge serving breakfast, high tea and cocktails.
- Rooftop Bar: Upper-floor drinks with panoramic views over Sydney Harbour.
- Indoor Pool & Fitness Centre: A heated pool and gym on the upper floors, with skyline outlooks.
- Club InterContinental: A private lounge with complimentary breakfast, evening canapés and dedicated concierge service.
InterContinental Sydney at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 117 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia |
| Neighborhood / Area | Sydney CBD, near Circular Quay |
| Operating Hours | Open 24 hours; check-in from 3pm, check-out by 11am |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$$ five-star rates; club and suite tiers cost more |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1 to 3 nights; 1 to 2 hours for drinks or high tea |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Circular Quay station, ferries and L2/L3 light rail (5-minute walk); valet parking on site |
| Official Website & Phone | ihg.com · +61 2 9253 9000 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Book harbour-view rooms early for New Year’s Eve, Vivid Sydney (May–June) and summer weekends, when fireworks and light shows draw crowds. Afternoon tea in the Cortile is best reserved ahead. From Circular Quay, walk up Loftus Street or Macquarie Street to reach the hotel. Martin Place station is about 8 minutes south. Drivers can use valet parking at the Bridge Street entrance.
The main entrance and lifts give step-free access to the lobby, pool and event levels. Accessible rooms are available on request; confirm specific features when booking. The Royal Botanic Garden is across Macquarie Street, and the Sydney Opera House is about 10 minutes away on foot. The Museum of Sydney and the dining laneways around Bridge Street and Circular Quay are within a 5-minute stroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to stay?
The hotel operates year-round. Spring and autumn bring mild weather for harbour walks. December and Vivid season command the highest rates.
How much does a room cost?
Rates sit in the luxury $$$$ tier and vary by view and season. Club InterContinental and suites cost more. Check live pricing on the official IHG website.
Can non-guests visit the bars?
Yes, the Cortile and the rooftop bar welcome outside visitors. Smart-casual dress is recommended, and booking ahead helps at sunset.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. Interconnecting rooms, the indoor pool and nearby parks suit families. Lifts serve all guest floors for stroller and wheelchair access.
When planning your Sydney travel guide or comparing verified hotels and wedding venue in Sydney, pair this stop with standout local spots including Central Park Mall, Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection, Maydanoz Restaurant Bar, and Justice and Police Museum (nearby).
