In the year April 2016 through March 2017, Sydney welcomed 13.1 million domestic and international visitors to its shores, according to Destination NSW. Home to some of the country’s top tourist attractions, staying in a central location is key for easy exploring. Rest your head away from the crowds in the quaint suburb of Potts Point at The Macleay Hotel – a great gateway to the city’s must-see sights.
The Sydney Opera House
What visit to the city would be complete without a visit to The Sydney Opera House? Just a 30 minute walk from your Potts Point accommodation, you too can be one of the 8.2 million annual visitors to the wondrous building, capturing photos of the awe-inspiring architecture designed by Jorn Utzon in 1956. Utzon won £5,000 (AU$8468.50) for his entry, according to the official Sydney Opera House website – today, the prize money would be £120,500 (AU$204,090.50)!
Uncover off-limit areas by booking a guided tour of the World Heritage Listed building. From the first person to perform at Sydney Opera House, Paul Robeson, to some of the world’s biggest artists such as Lorde and Paul Weller, explore backstage areas and experience the magic for yourself.
The Sydney Opera House is home to one of the city’s finest restaurants – Bennelong. Established Australian chef, Peter Gilmore, serves up a true taste of Australia for diners looking to end their Sydney Opera House experience in the best and tastiest way possible.
The Rocks
Hop on a bus just outside The Macleay Hotel and take the 30 minute ride to The Rocks in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Spend an afternoon wandering the cobbled streets and explore the precinct’s convict past. With history around every corner, it’s no surprise that The Rocks regularly hosts ghost tours.
Catch your breath at one of Sydney’s oldest pubs, Fortune of War, and sip the day away on a locally-brewed pint where soldiers and sailors drank in the 1800s. Afterwards, venture further down George Street to the iconic Rocks Markets to shop up a storm at the 150 stalls, brimming with crafts, food and gifts.
The Rocks is one of Sydney’s main artistic hubs, with galleries, exhibitions and art shows on display throughout the year, so be sure to check out as many as you can!
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Not only does your serviced Potts Point accommodation offer unbeatable views of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge, it’s also just over 10 minutes away on local transport. See the world’s largest steel arch bridge in all its glory by strapping in for a truly unforgettable Sydney experience – the Harbour Bridge climb. Join more than 3 million climbers who have taken to the sky, including a few famous faces such as Ben Stiller, Jamie Oliver and Kit Harington.
Spanning 134 metres above sea level, get ready to tackle the 1,332 steps to the summit where 360 degree panoramic views await. If heights aren’t your thing, don’t worry – pedestrian access is available down below.
Potts Point
The Macleay Hotel is conveniently located in one of Sydney’s most affluent suburbs – Potts Point. Although within walking distance to some of the city’s various tourist attractions, there’s still so much to see and do in Potts Point itself.
From The Macleay Hotel, continue down Macleay Street and discover world-class restaurants and dining opportunities. Yellow and Monopole are just two of the award-winning eateries celebrating European cuisine, but hungry diners can enjoy tastes of Australia, Asia and Italy at other established eateries, including Billy Kwong – an Asian-fusion eatery run by celebrity chef Kylie Kwong.
Potts Point is famed for its historic architecture, gorgeous art deco buildings and cafe culture, giving this Sydney suburb a whimsical Parisian vibe – popular with locals and tourists alike. Enjoy exploring picturesque surroundings at Sydney’s Botanical Gardens – just a stone’s throw away from your Potts Point accommodation.
With so much to see and do in Potts Point and Sydney CBD, take the time to relax after a busy day in your centrally located Potts Point accommodation with a dip in our rooftop pool – we look forward to seeing you!