Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour Review: After staying at this hotel twice during separate trips to Sydney, I can confidently say it’s one of the best hotels near Darling Harbour for families, couples, and honeymoon travelers.
I’ve actually stayed here twice during separate trips to Sydney, spending a total of four nights at the hotel. One stay was in a standard Superior Room, while the other was in a Superior Room with two double beds.
Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour Room Rates
During my stays, weekend rates were typically around AUD 400–500 per night, while weekday rates were generally closer to AUD 300–400. Of course, prices vary depending on travel dates and availability, so it’s always worth checking current rates before booking.
Superior Room with Two Double Beds
The double-bed room at Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour was surprisingly spacious. The beds felt almost queen-sized, and there was more than enough room for a family of four to stay comfortably.
One thing I noticed is that the price was often similar to rooms with smaller bed configurations, making this room an excellent value for family travelers.
The room also included a small table and seating area, which was useful for planning the day’s activities or enjoying a quick meal.
Standard Superior Room
The standard Superior Room was perfect for two people. It featured a comfortable bed and a cozy sofa that made the room feel more relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
My room had a city view, although nearby buildings blocked some natural light, making the room feel a little darker than expected during the day.
Room Amenities
The room included:
- Flat-screen TV
- Wardrobe and storage space
- Hair dryer
- Iron and ironing board
- Bathroom amenities
- Bathtub with shower
Slippers were not provided automatically, but housekeeping quickly delivered them when I requested them.
The hotel staff were consistently friendly and helpful throughout both stays.
One tip: don’t forget to hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign if you want privacy. I forgot once, and housekeeping entered while I was still in the room. They immediately apologized when they realized someone was inside, but it was definitely an awkward moment!
Bathroom
The bathroom was clean and well-maintained.
There was a bathtub with an overhead shower, so you’ll need to stand inside the tub while showering. Water pressure was excellent, and the hair dryer was surprisingly powerful compared to many hotels I’ve stayed in.
The shampoo was decent for hotel-provided amenities, although travelers with dry or sensitive hair may want to bring their own conditioner.
Hotel Facilities
The hotel lobby and common areas were modern and busy, especially during peak travel periods.
One minor inconvenience was the elevator wait time. Elevators often became crowded, especially on the main lobby level, so be prepared for a short wait during busy hours.
The Best Part: Location
For me, the biggest advantage of Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour is its location.
The hotel sits right next to Darling Harbour, one of Sydney’s most vibrant waterfront areas. The surrounding neighborhood is lively during both the day and evening, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and attractions nearby.
The views around the hotel are beautiful, especially at night when the harbour lights reflect across the water.
On one particularly sunny day, I even walked from the hotel to the Sydney Opera House. It took about 30 minutes at a relaxed pace and was a wonderful way to explore the city.
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Things to Keep in Mind
While I thoroughly enjoyed my stays, there were two minor drawbacks.
Finding the Hotel Entrance
When returning from Sydney CBD, Google Maps occasionally directed me through the parking garage entrance. The route can be confusing, especially at night, and I managed to get lost more than once.
If possible, I recommend returning through the main entrance rather than following the parking-garage shortcut.
Blackout Curtains
The blackout curtains were excellent for sleeping, but surprisingly difficult to reopen.
The blinds operate with a rotating rod system, and it took me a while to figure out how to raise them. I even called reception for assistance during my first stay.
If you’re lucky enough to book a harbour-view room, you may want to avoid closing them completely!
Final Thoughts
Overall, Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour is one of my favorite hotels in Sydney.
The location is fantastic, the staff are friendly, the rooms are comfortable, and the hotel works equally well for couples, honeymooners, and families.
Despite a few small inconveniences, I would happily stay here again on my next trip to Sydney.
If you’re looking for a well-located Darling Harbour hotel with great value and comfortable rooms, Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour is definitely worth considering.
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