Image: Frankie the Creative
For those looking for a CBD staycation that combines heritage charm with contemporary luxury, Adelaide Marriott has quickly made a name for itself as one of the city’s most impressive escapes, and it’s a destination I could not recommend enough.
Set within the iconic General Post Office, the Adelaide Marriott opened its doors at the end of 2024, combining breathtaking architecture, top-tier dining and amenities with a team that knows how to treat guests like VIPs.
When the team invited a friend and I to stay at their hotel, it was an instant ‘yes’. But from what we expected to what we experienced truly blew us away. From the moment you step into the grand GPO foyer, the tone is set. Tall ceilings, soft lighting and curated interiors create a balance between historic grandeur and contemporary luxury, while the check-in experience feels seamless and quietly attentive.
We were lucky enough to spend the night in The Clock Tower Suite. This is a room designed to impress at every turn, pairing generous proportions with thoughtful detailing. A striking marble bathroom anchors the space, complete with an oversized bathtub, while the bedroom opens out to sweeping views across Victoria Square. The living space had more windows than walls. With another television, a couch, lounge chairs and a view that once again, took my breath away.
The room also had a mini bar, dining table, and another small bathroom, far too much space for the two of us, but the perfect amount of luxury to indulge in for just one night.
The hotel is situated in the historic 152-year-old General Post Office building. The $200 million development, which was led by Baukultur back in 2024, features 285 spacious guestrooms and suites, including an opulent Presidential Suite, a Club Lounge, top-tier restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, gym, and multiple function and conference spaces.
In the evening, we headed down for dinner at Penny Blue, which delivers a refined take on nostalgic Australian dining, with a menu that balances comfort and creativity.
As I’d experienced throughout the entirety of my stay so far, the staff were going above and beyond to make sure our time there was perfect. They sat us down in a booth, encouraging us to browse the menu and wine list. We selected a bottle of wine and started with the rosemary & potato sourdough cob, then our entrees quickly followed. We had chosen the chargrilled chicken spatchcock, which we’re still talking about. Served with a hazelnut romesco and a hot Sichuan honey, this was a total highlight for both of us, a dish we’d definitely go back for.
For mains, we went for the pan-fried potato gnocchi with edamame and brown butter-sage emulsion, and the grain-fed, Wagyu MS5+ scotch fillet, which was so soft we could’ve cut it with a butter knife. We had high expectations after our delicious entrees, but the mains were just as, or if not, even more delicious.
The night continued at chic cocktail bar Exchange Lane, where the atmosphere shifted to something more intimate and social. We enjoyed a cocktail list that’s equally as considered as the food offering upstairs.
Mornings are just as considered, with Penny Blue transforming into a relaxed breakfast setting offering an extensive spread of both sweet and savoury options. We enjoyed the buffet breakfast and its huge array of sweet and savoury options. The pancakes were a favourite of ours. Then we completed our stay with a takeaway coffee from Exchange Lane. While a cocktail bar in the evening, Exchange Lane is also the perfect spot for a quick coffee or bite to eat during the daytime.
Whether you’re coming from interstate or more locally, one of the biggest drawcards to the Adelaide Marriott is its location. Not only is it perfectly placed right in the centre of the city, with stunning views over Victoria Square (which is home to some of the best SA events, like the upcoming Tasting Australia), but tucked behind the hotel, you’ll find a secluded, but bustling al fresco precinct that’s home to some of the city’s top bars and restaurants. Here you’ll find MasterChef star Callum Hann’s showstopping Italian restaurant Roma, and upscale cocktail bar Electra. In the early evenings, this large courtyard comes to life, buzzing with people knocking off after work and enjoying this city oasis. And for those staying at the Adelaide Marriott, outdoor seating provides you a front row seat.
Our stay at the Adelaide Marriott truly was one of my favourites to date. With its central CBD location just a short walk from Rundle Mall, plus amazing dining and drinking options, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk service, and Marriott Bonvoy® member benefits, it’s a spot I’ll recommend to local friends and family looking for a staycation, just like we did, or for those coming from interstate looking for somewhere to stay longer.
If this has inspired you to treat yourself to a staycation at Adelaide Marriott, the Adelaide Ultimate Escape package is the perfect way to do it. Included in the package are a $50 hotel credit, 1pm late checkout, a complimentary room upgrade and a glass of wine on arrival to begin your stay in style. I would recommend using the $50 voucher towards a dinner at Penny Blue or drinks at Exchange Lane, both of which were standouts of our stay!
So if you’re looking for somewhere to stay, or the perfect excuse to head to the city, with standout dining and warm, attentive service, Adelaide Marriott delivers a staycation experience that feels indulgent, effortless, and well worth the hype.
For more information and to book your very own Adelaide Ultimate Escape, click here.
