Hotel in CBD, Sydney, New South Wales, New South Wales
InterContinental Sydney
Check rates & availability on Booking.comHoused in the heritage-listed Treasury Building, the InterContinental Sydney combines Victorian sandstone grandeur with contemporary luxury. The hotel is connected to the Royal Botanic Garden and is a short walk from the Opera House. The Cortile, set beneath a stunning atrium, serves afternoon tea and cocktails.
InterContinental Sydney occupies the heritage-listed Treasury Building at 117 Macquarie Street, a Victorian sandstone landmark completed in 1851 and one of New South Wales's most distinguished hotel addresses. The property sits on the eastern edge of the Sydney CBD, adjoining the Royal Botanic Garden and positioned a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay ferry terminals, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Martin Place and the heart of the financial district are a two-minute walk, making the hotel a preferred base for both leisure and corporate travellers.
The Treasury Building's architecture — bluestone and sandstone facades, high arched windows, and soaring interior volumes — has been carefully preserved and integrated with contemporary guest facilities across 509 rooms spread across 31 floors. Superior rooms are well appointed; Harbourview rooms and Club InterContinental rooms on upper floors deliver city and water panoramas. The Club InterContinental lounge provides a private enclave with complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails and canapés, and all-day refreshments — a compelling option for couples and business travellers.
The signature social space is The Cortile, set beneath a spectacular glazed atrium that preserves the original courtyard of the Treasury Building. Afternoon tea here, served in an atmosphere of Victorian grandeur, is one of Sydney's most celebrated rituals. Café Opera, the hotel's main restaurant, offers international buffet and à la carte dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A full-service day spa, indoor pool, and fitness centre occupy the lower levels, providing a sheltered wellness retreat well suited to Sydney's cooler months when outdoor alternatives are less attractive. The indoor pool is a particular asset in this segment of the Sydney market. The concierge team is well versed in arranging private harbour tours, Opera House performance bookings, and Blue Mountains excursions.
InterContinental Sydney participates in the IHG One Rewards loyalty programme, and direct reservations frequently include complimentary breakfast or room upgrades. The hotel suits business travellers, heritage-focused couples, and guests prioritising seamless access to Sydney's cultural and corporate centre in New South Wales.
Amenities
- Indoor pool
- Day spa
- Fitness centre
- Cortile lounge
- Club InterContinental lounge
- Concierge
- Valet parking
- Free WiFi
Visit / Book / Contact
Location
117 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Highlights
- Housed in the 1851 heritage-listed Treasury Building, one of New South Wales's most architecturally significant hotel conversions
- The Cortile atrium bar is one of Sydney's most atmospheric settings for afternoon tea and evening cocktails
- Club InterContinental lounge provides complimentary breakfast, evening canapés, and all-day refreshments for eligible guests
- Adjoins the Royal Botanic Garden with the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay a short walk away
- Indoor pool and day spa offer a year-round wellness option in the heart of the Sydney CBD
Tips
- Club InterContinental room upgrades are worth considering — the lounge benefits typically cover the price difference for guests who use them for breakfast and evening drinks
- Request a high floor with harbour or city view at time of booking, as the outlook varies considerably between floors
- Afternoon tea at The Cortile is popular with non-hotel guests too — reserve a table several days in advance
- The Royal Botanic Garden entrance adjacent to the hotel is free and ideal for a morning walk before heading into the CBD
- IHG One Rewards members should book direct to access complimentary breakfast and upgrade offers not available through third-party channels
FAQ
Is InterContinental Sydney close to the Sydney Opera House?
The Sydney Opera House is approximately a ten-minute walk from the hotel along Macquarie Street and around the edge of the Royal Botanic Garden to Circular Quay. The hotel's concierge can arrange Opera House performance bookings directly.
What is included in Club InterContinental access?
Club InterContinental access typically includes complimentary breakfast in the lounge, evening cocktails and canapés, all-day tea and coffee, and the use of a private workspace. Specific inclusions can vary by booking rate; guests should confirm at time of reservation.
Does InterContinental Sydney have a swimming pool?
Yes, the hotel has an indoor heated pool on the lower level, available to all guests. The indoor configuration makes it usable year-round regardless of Sydney's seasonal weather.
What transport options are near InterContinental Sydney?
Martin Place train station is a two-minute walk and connects to the T1, T2, T3, T4, and T8 lines. Circular Quay ferry terminal is about a ten-minute walk, providing access to harbour ferries including the Manly and Parramatta services.
Accessibility
InterContinental Sydney offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers and wider doorways. The Macquarie Street main entrance provides level access, and lifts serve all guest floors. Guests with specific mobility or accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the hotel prior to arrival to arrange appropriate room allocation.
When to visit
The hotel is well suited year-round given its indoor pool and central location. Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer the most pleasant Sydney weather for walking to nearby attractions including the Royal Botanic Garden and Opera House.