The rise of Parramatta: this revamped hotel will change how you stay in Sydney

This destination is such a pocket of unbridled growth that it doesn't matter when you were last there, it's almost certainly already better. Parramatta, in the heart of Western Sydney, is the "second CBD" - about 20 kilometres from Sydney's centre - with just as much to offer. PARKROYAL Parramatta celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026 and it's been sprucing itself up for the occasion. Extensive renovations to the hotel's lobby and its guest rooms have elevated the guest experience at the site that's as able to provide a large business conference as it is a romantic weekend away. It's well placed between Sydney's major domestic and international airports, particularly the upcoming Western Sydney Airport slated to service 10 million passengers from the time it opens later this year.

You might find yourself here after game day, with three sport stadiums in the vicinity of the hotel - CommBank Stadium right next to Parramatta Park, ENGIE Stadium in the Sydney Showgrounds at Olympic Park and Accor Stadium right next to that. Regardless of the reason for your visit, you could stay for a week and still not sample all of the bustling food options within walking distance of the PARKROYAL It's a cultural hotspot, with everything from Greek and Italian to Middle Eastern, Korean, Vietnamese and Asian fusion restaurants. There are plenty of places for a sweet treat or a coffee, with Parramatta's bustling Church Street, known as "Eat St", just around the corner from the hotel.

Extensively renovated in 2025, the hotel's deluxe and superior rooms now feature a modern, organic design that pays tribute to the region's landscape and natural features. A lively linear pattern in the freshly laid carpets reflects the region's scribbly gum trees, while warm wooden panelling contrasts with minimalist metal wardrobes evoking the same fusion of natural and built environments that exists along the banks of the Parramatta River just outside.

Double, queen and king configurations with plush bedding are available in various room types to suit solo travellers or couples through to friend and family groups. The deluxe king corner room has a generous view of the Western Sydney horizon, with walls of full-length windows adorned with sheer and blockout blinds to assist indulgent morning lie-ins, further facilitated by the hotel's 11am checkouts. Premier and club rooms have a monochromatic and minimalist feel with sleek furnishings. Renovated bathrooms are crisp and bright with smart mirrors and rainfall showerheads, and the inclusion of filtered water taps is a nod to the hotel's sustainability focus.

If a stroll along neighbouring Eat St isn't to your taste, the hotel's BAR30 & Bistro and TABLE 30 have plenty on offer. For bookings with included breakfasts, TABLE30 will be where you are greeted with complimentary barista coffee, fill your plate with the buffet offerings, or stop by the omelette station to pop in your order. Buffet breakfast can be added for $40 for adults and $20 for children if not included in your room rate. For a cocktail or "beverage and bites" before dinner, BAR30 has all the favourites and some signature selections, too. Described as modern Australian, the menu has all the classics plus elevated touches.

Club rooms and suites also include exclusive access to the hotel's Club Lounge and associated benefits such as complimentary tea, coffee and beverages at all times of day, plus a drinks and canape period in the evenings. There's an outdoor pool, and the hotel also offers a gym equipped with yoga mats, a range of cardio machines and weight equipment.

A drive out to Western Sydney Zoo for a meerkat encounter was the icing on the cake of a great staycation.

The writer was a guest of the hotel