BEST view of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from Shangri-La Sydney
Are you looking for a location with unmatched views of Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge? Well, It may be worth checking out Shangri-La Sydney. The Hotel's restaurant and bar alone showcases a panoramic vantage point of the iconic Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge. The impressive views is what makes it stand out from its nearby competitors.
Still not convinced? Let's look further into the highlights of Shangri-la Sydney and what makes it so special. Make sure to read the helpful tips I provide along the way.
Stunning views at all times of the Day in ALL rooms
Yes, you read that right. Every single room at Shangri-La Sydney has view! Of course it comes down to preference and what view you're looking for.
Pro Tip* Make sure to check out Shangri-La Sydney's website on a Laptop/Computer. Or change the site into desktop view from your phone when comparing rooms or deciding what view to go with. The mobile version only shows photos and room descriptions, but the desktop view provides a 360 virtual tour of every room. This becomes a very helpful tool when deciding what room to choose if views are what you're after.
The room I stayed in is the Executive Sydney Harbour Room/King which was situated on the 23rd floor. The room features stunning views of the harbour bridge, sydney harbour and the sydney opera house.
Location
One of the absolute best things to note about this hotel is it's convenient location. You are within short walking distance to the many notable attractions such as the historical rocks district and Opera House. Not to mention how close it is to public transportation.
If you're in the area, I recommend riding the ferry! It's one of the most scenic way to see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Additionally, it's a convenient mode of transportation to visit places such as manly, cockatoo Island, and taronga zoo. And that's only to name a few. Consider taking a ferry day trip to an island if you have the time.
Recommended Ferry Route (Scenic Route to Opera House)
From Shangri-La Sydney, walk to Barangaroo Wharf which is approximately 0.68 mile walk. Then take the ferry that stops at Circular Quay. Taking this ferry route gives you a view of the harbour bridge and opera house. There should be about 4 stops before you reach Circular Quay (around 20 mins ferry ride). When you've reached Circular Quay Harbor, you are within walking distance to the infamous Opera House.
I did this early in the morning, and I personally enjoyed it. I was pleasantly surprised and you will too if you decide to follow suit, is that it's not at all crowded in the morning. All I saw were people on their morning jogs and a few people like myself who's taking in the views and enjoying a leisure walk.
Dinning Experience
Shangri-La Sydney has 2 bars and 1 restaurant; "The Lobby Lounge", "Altitude Restaurant" and "Blu Bar 36". Altitude restaurant and Blu bar 36 is strategically located on the 36th floor for guests to enjoy the best unparalleled views of Sydney. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows provides panoramic and unobstructed views of Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Shangri-La definitely takes dining to new heights (quite literally).
As a hotel guest, I absolutely loved watching the sunrise at the Altitude Restaurant while enjoying my breakfast. If you are looking for a savory breakfast, I recommend trying their signature "sunrise breakfast". *it's only offered at certain days throughout the week so verify with the hotel in advance.
Note* Dining isn’t restricted to hotel guests. You’re able to make a reservation via hotel’s website. Altitude Restaurant offers breakfast, Lunch, High Tea and Dinner.
Spa and Fitness Center
If you're in search for a day of relaxation and pampering, Shangri La Sydney has a luxurious Spa that's worth looking into. Their massages and treatments highlights Australian healing techniques with the use of indigenous ingredients.
Or are you looking more into fitness during your stay? At Shangri-La, they have a well equipped fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool bath and even a sundeck. I'm here to put a huge emphasis on the "fully equipped" fitness center. I have to be honest, I was very impressed by their gym. Primarily because of the free weights and strength training equipments. Most hotels don't usually offer such a full range of equipment so I was fairly pleased. Most people also don't workout while they travel so expect the fitness center to not be packed or in most cases, empty and free to enjoy for yourself!
Customer Service
For a luxury 5 star hotel, it goes without saying that you'd expect nothing less than 5 star customer service. The staff did just that and more! From the moment I arrived and the moment I had checked out, the level of service provided was exceptional.
Pro-Tip** Download the Shangri-La App and Sign up as a member (it’s 100% free). Not only do you get a cheaper/better rate when making a reservation but they also offer up to 25% off breakfast vouchers for new members!
Also, if you happen to dine at the Altitude Restaurant and the person attending you asks if you have a time for a quick survey via QR code. I suggest you do it. I had time to spare and filled out the survey on my phone. Next thing you know, I got a voucher with complimentary breakfast for two on my next hotel stay!
Overall, I can say nothing but good things about Shangri-La Sydney. Not only was the room view amazing, but the hotel amenities, location and customer service was absolutely exceptional! My short trip to Sydney was truly memorable due to my experience with Shangri-La Sydney. The experience I had with them were 5 stars! and that's why I'm recommending them.