Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour by IHG

Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour by IHG Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at my fair share of Sydney hotels, and the Crowne Plaza at Darling Harbour hits that sweet spot where you’re right in the thick of things without feeling like you’re trapped in a tourist bubble. The moment you walk in, you get this sense that they’ve actually thought about what business travelers and families need – not just thrown some generic lobby furniture together and called it a day.

What really gets me about this place is the location. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from the Convention Centre, which is clutch if you’re here for work, but honestly? Even if you’re not, being this close to Darling Harbour means you can wander over to the waterfront whenever you want. The rooms on the harbour side – well, you’ll pay extra but watching the sunset bounce off the water while ferries chug past is pretty spectacular. The street-facing rooms are quieter than you’d expect for Bathurst Street, though you might catch some early morning delivery trucks if you’re a light sleeper.

The thing about staying here is that you’re genuinely well-positioned for exploring Sydney properly. King Street Wharf is right there (perfect for catching ferries to Circular Quay or Manly), and if you want to walk to the Opera House or Harbour Bridge, it’s totally doable – about 15 minutes through the city. The staff seem to actually know Sydney too, which sounds basic but you’d be surprised how many hotel concierges just Google things in front of you. They pointed me toward some solid coffee spots on Kent Street that I never would’ve found otherwise. The rooms themselves feel modern without being sterile – decent-sized bathrooms, beds that don’t feel like they came from a budget chain, and the air conditioning actually works properly (crucial for Sydney summers). Check-in was smooth, parking is available but expensive as you’d expect in the CBD, and the breakfast spread is solid if you’re not up for hunting down a café. It’s the kind of place where everything just works without any drama, which honestly, after a long flight, is exactly what you want.

Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour by IHG Accommodations

Reviews of Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour by IHG

• A refreshing staycation break – Edward from Indonesia – 14 July 2025 (9/10)

  The location. Been a new hotel and well maintained.
  
  What could be improved: Outdoor swimming pool

• Exceptional – Josie from Australia – 11 July 2025 (10/10)

  The staff were super friendly! Breakfast was amazing!!

• Great hotel. Would stay again! – Mrs from Australia – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

  Friendly staff and very helpful.

• Affordable luxury in the heart of Sydney. – Renae from Australia – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing location. Amazing staff. Room was spacious and clean with all the amenities you need. Bed was very comfortable. Breakfast was also wonderful.

• Great value great location – Cheuk from Hong Kong – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  Great location because it is between Darling Harbour, QVB and Chinatown, therefore there are loads of affordable food choices within 10-min walk. The room size is decent, facilities are rather new and clean. Very importantly there are water dispensers everywhere in the hotel, so there is basically no need to buy bottled water.

• Would love to do it again – amazing!!! – Laidler from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  I was really impressed with the food and service.
  
  What could be improved: Have no complaints

• Excellent stay, would stay again . Only downside is we wmailed to ask for an early check in and they never replied. Had – Jacqueline from United Kingdom – 1 July 2025 (8/10)

  Modern and clean. Excellent breakfast and large bedroom.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Amazing our go to place to stay in sydney – Krystle from New Zealand – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  The staff , how clean the rooms are

• Superb – Deanne from Australia – 28 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location great. Helpful staff

• Exceptional – Paige from New Zealand – 10 June 2025 (10/10)

  The most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept on.
  Great location, especially with having a baby.
  Lindt chocolate at reception desk.
  Water refill stations.
  The best buffet breakfast I’ve had.
  Great black out blinds. Could go on & on.

Surroundings

Facilities