Sir Stamford at Circular Quay

This is a great hotel in a very good location. The walk to the quay and back is short and although some complain about the hill it's nothing. The staff was friendly, the room was great and we even had a small view of the harbor.

This is a genuine five-star hotel offering exceptional service in Sydney's prime tourist location. It is one block from Circular Quay, where the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney ferries are located. It is directly accross the road from the beautiful Botanical Gardens. It is five minutes' walk from the train station, which offers direct access to the airport. We were treated with respect by every member of the hotel staff. Each time we saw a staff member in the lobby or a hallway, they always greeted us with a "good morning", "good afternoon" etc. As we were travelling on a budget, we bought breakfast provisions at a supermarket and ate in our room - we ordered two empty bowls and two spoons from room service and we were impressed that the spoons are made from silver. The bathroom was very large and appeared to be tiled in marble, with beautiful silver fixtures. Our room had nice thick curtains so we could enjoy a nap during the day after an early morning flight. We could hear the traffic noise from our room - this is not a problem if you are a heavy sleeper or if you have a pair of earplugs (I always carry a pair with me). We were fortunate that when we arrived at 10am, our room was already prepared for us. From nearby Circular Quay, we caught the ferry to Manly for $6.10 each way - this is unbelievable value as this ferry showcases Sydney Harbour, passing by the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, some of the north shore parks, and harbourside suburbs. In Manly, waiting for the returning ferry to depart, we saw a penguin fishing for its dinner. The Botanical Gardens (http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/welcome_to_bgt/royal_botanic_gardens) are also very beautiful and are just across the road from the hotel. We also enjoyed visiting the Art Gallery of New South Wales (http://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/), which is free and located on the other side of the Botanical Gardens. The public transport system is brilliant and parking is expensive (driving is also quite stressful and frustrating in Sydney), so being so close to the ferry terminal and train station is a real bonus and made for a relaxing experience. The train fare was $15 to the airport each way and this was also much faster than catching a taxi. This hotel is unbelievable value, we were so impressed with the whole experience. I would recommend it to anyone at this price.

Had a wonderful New Year's Eve 20th Anniversary there with watching the fireworks from the roof of the hotel.

We had a great experience here. Arrived before room was ready, and staff encouraged us to use the shower in the fitness center and leave our luggage. Throughout the stay the staff was courteous and friendly, and readily shared great suggestions. One of the best was the Blue Mountain tour provided by Blue Diamond. Rooms were comfortable and clean, and as noted above, the location was great.

Hotel was beautiful (former Ritz-Carlton) & staff was outstanding. Location was perfect but there are some slight hills which might challenge someone with walking problems. We would stay here again for sure.

We checked into the hotel after our 27 night cruise on the Pacific Princess from Los Angeles and found the hotel just a few steps or stroll from the Overseas Cruise Terminal in the Circular Quay area of Sydney. The Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden is just steps away as well. With the [...] pricing we were able to save our resources for fees and dinners about town for the five days. Fantastic Victorian furnishings in the main foyer and sitting room. We especially enjoy the staff members. eagerness to help from room attendant to managers!!!

Hotel was in an excellent location, in walking distance to the ferries, Sydney Opera House and "The Rocks". The staff was very accommodating and helpful in providing restaurant and tour suggestions. The room was very clean and comfortable.

The charming staff, concierge ([...]), bellhop ([...]), bartender ([...]), and the entire dining waitstaff went out of their way to make us comfortable. The bartender in the British-style bar remembered our favorite drinks; loved the smell of the cozy fireplaces in the lobby and bar and relaxed on comfortable couches in the bar area. The restaurant waitstaff always accommodated our request for a window when making a reservation. High tea is also available each afternoon. Housekeeping services were excellent. We would definitely stay here again because of the ideal central location to everything in downtown Sydney, right across from the Royal Botanic Gardens, a block from Circular Quay, the Opera House, short walk to The Rocks, short walk to Hyde Park and St. Mary's Cathedral. Loved the outstanding artwork and paintings in the lobby and bar. Checked in around 7am and we were taken immediately to our luxurious room/suite even though check-in wasn't until 3pm. Concierge confirmed our fantastic tours to the Hunter Valley wineries, to the Blue Mountains and to the northern surf beaches on the ocean. Had absolutely no complaints about this hotel. It was everything we expected from this level of hotel with old world charm and the attitude of the staff was very much appreciated, as a sour attitude can make for an unpleasant visit. Am baffled about negative comments about staff, but if you are nice and respectful to people, they are nice and respectful to you in return. Have travelled the world over and would definitely recommend this hotel.

Perfect location in Circular Quay for exploring all of Sydney. Close location to train, Opera House, Harbour Bridge, The Rocks and Royal Botanical Garden. Lovely old hotel with very large rooms. Rooms have white marble bathrooms with separate tub/shower plus a juliet balcony with opening glass doors. Walk down Macquarrie Street towards the water and look left for steps leading to the Cahill walkway that takes you right by the Expressway and spans the Quay. Excellent city and harbor views that lead to the bridge, then take the stairs down to The Rocks. Beautiful!

Excellent room and location. We had a great stay.