Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is a concrete building wrapped in glass balconies, which is appropriate as the views of Sydney's harbor are one of this hotel's main draws. Inside, the lobby is set with straw-colored chairs and white couches over blue rugs, creating a small, inviting seating area for guests. The hotel can buzz with activity, from conference attendees to sightseers coming dining and enjoying gorgeous harbor views to international tourists staying at the hotel. The ground-floor restaurant has high ceilings and panoramic windows facing the harbor, while the bar's glass walls can be folded back to create an open-air environment with unobstructed views of the cruise ships and ferries. Even the indoor pool area has a deck with lounge chairs offering superb water views. The hotel sees guests across all categories, but couples and families make up the lion's share -- the harborside setting can prove irresistibly romantic.

For digs in the middle of Sydney, it doesn't get more central than this hotel's Circular Quay location. Admittedly, the area is a bit touristy, and those seeking a more authentic experience in Sydney will want to consider neighborhoods like Darlinghurst. The hotel is well-located for checking off bucket list items, though, and it's only a five-minute walk to the iconic Sydney Opera House. There are waterfront restaurants and bars nearby, and it’s a short five-minute walk to the Royal Botanic Gardens as well. The historic and trendy The Rocks district is 10 minutes away on foot, while the Central Business District is a 15-minute walk (and guests with a bit more stamina can reach Darling Harbor's waterside shops and restaurants in 20 minutes). Trips to the airport should take about 15 minutes by car or taxi.

Each of the apartments have homey comforts and modern style, with blond wood furniture that has clean lines, plush gray carpets, and contemporary chairs and love seats in on-trend colors like eggplant and slate. All rooms have separate bedrooms and living rooms, with wall-mounted flat-screen TVs and DVD players in the living rooms as well as flat-screen TVs in the bedrooms. Balconies are furnished with chairs and a small table, and offer either harbor or garden views. The full kitchens have microwaves, dishwashers, Nespresso coffeemakers, electric ranges, and minibars. Rooms also have washers and dryers. Bathrooms are stylish and simple, with white marble floors and accents plus jetted tubs, separate walk-in showers, and high-end toiletries. 

The highlight of this hotel is the view -- and whether guests are overlooking the harbor or the botanic gardens, it's spectacular and utilized to full effect in the hotel's restaurants and bars. Guests and non-guests alike dine at the upscale restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including pre-theater options. The a la carte breakfast offers plenty of choices, but is not included with room rates. There's also a bar serving tapas and cocktails. The hotel's heated, indoor pool is a stylish place for a swim and is suitable for laps. There's also a whirlpool, sauna, and small fitness center with cardio equipment and weight machines. Three meeting spaces are available for private events, and the hotel has an internet corner with one computer and a printer. Wi-Fi is available throughout, but there is a fee to connect.