Largely known as the ‘City of Nizams’, Hyderabad is a city steeped in history. This was my second trip to the mesmerizing city which represents the perfect amalgamation of the old worldly charms and modern times. Infact, Hyderabad teaches us how different communities can live together in harmony without conflicts based on religion. And as happy I was, to be back to explore more of this wonderful city, I was excited about my stay at Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad, Banjara Hills. This part of Hyderabad was new to me and I was looking forward to exploring more.

Qutb Shahi Tombs
Qutb Shahi Tombs near Golconda Fort

Holiday Inn Express – The Concept

Holiday Inn Express is a new vector of the Holiday Inn chain under the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands. The concept of the hotels and the brand is- Stay Smart, rest, and recharge at Holiday Inn Express while getting a little work done. The rooms are priced in mid-range and offer everything you need and nothing you don’t. The service provided is efficient and hassle-free to ensure that guests have a comfortable stay.

Holiday Inn Express

Welcome and Check-In

As I stepped out of the airport, I was pleasantly surprised by a placard with my name and was ushered into the hotel car. No time was wasted as we hit the road connecting Rajiv Gandhi airport to Banjara Hills. After about 40 minutes of drive through the expressways and the old parts of the city, we were greeted by malls and upmarket restaurants of Banjara Hills. I passed an exquisite jewelry showroom and couldn’t help noticing the beautiful pearl and stone studded necklace displayed. And as my mind escaped to the thoughts of Nizam’s jewel collection, the car took a turn and drove behind the showroom to drop me at the reception of Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad.

holiday inn express

The lobby is located on the second floor and after a quick scan of my bags, I was led there. As the lift doors opened, I stepped into an energetic room with walls adorning the sketches of Hyderabad’s famous monuments. The lobby opened into the dining space that had a great open view of the adjoining street. The check-in was truly express and I was happy to observe that I was surrounded by a team of smiling staff making me feel right at home.holiday inn express

The Room

My favorites in the room were the super comfy bed and the large HD TV right in front of it. Sometimes that’s all you need after a tiring day! The room is quite smartly designed with an integrated sitting area and the restrooms are carved out of the bedroom. It has all the facilities like a small fridge, locker, toiletries, etc that one would need while staying in a hotel. While the hotel is branded as an economy range hotel, the ambiance and decor of the rooms exuberate comfort and luxury. They have express room service and hence on days when you do not feel like stepping out of the room, just order at your room and enjoy your fresh meal.

holiday inn express

The Food

The food served from the kitchen of Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad, Banjara Hills is fresh and delicious. The breakfast buffet may not seem very grand, but it is just right. You will find enough varieties of dishes to ensure you have a hearty breakfast. There are many options available for vegetarians and non-vegetarian travelers. And in case you are looking for anything else, don’t hesitate to ask the staff.

During lunch and dinner, you can order your choice from an expansive menu as A la carte. My recommendation would be the tasteful juicy kebabs for starters and the ‘dabbawala’ dishes for the main course. The unique ‘dabbawala’ meals are served inside colorful tiffin boxes and consist of a delicious vegetarian or non-vegetarian gravy with the bread of your choice.

holiday inn express food

 

The overall experience

I really enjoyed my stay with Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad, Banjara Hills. I found it to be a perfect base to explore the city sights and spend the evening hanging out with friends in Banjara Hills. The locality feels safe and you can be out late in the night without worrying. Even though the hotel is more popular as a business hotel, it can also be a great option for a short staycation with family. Most importantly the staff is very welcoming and will go out of their way to make your business or leisure trip a success.

charminar
Charminar

Places to visit nearby

Here is a list of places that you can visit in a couple of days in Hyderabad –

  • Charminar
  • Golconda
  • Qutb Shahi Tombs
  • Salar Jung Museum
  • Chowmahalla Palace
  • Nizam’s Museum in Old Haveli
  • Hussain Sagar Lake
  • Mecca Masjid
  • Birla temple
  • Lumbini Gardens

And if you are a history buff head over to our post about historical places to visit in Hyderabad.

Golconda
The ruins of the Golconda

I was hosted by Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad, Banjara Hills however all views and opinions expressed are mine.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

76 COMMENTS

  2. I love the views and food options there, not to mention how close it is to so many sites I’d want to explore. Holiday Inn Express is always a reliable option, as they maintain pretty high and consistent standards worldwide. I would definitely consider staying here if I ever make it to Hyderabad!

  12. We were able to stay here once and we loved it. It is very practical and the service was great. The amenities were complete and our overall stay was comfortable. We will definitely be staying again on our future trips.

  13. I love how beautiful it looks. I’ve only been to Holiday Inn in the US, but it looks just as nice if not better in these photos.

  22. This sounds like such a perfect home base for a trip! Love the simple decor and clean lines. And the food looks delicious! Might have to add this to my bucket list!!

  25. What a brilliant guide! I’ve had a guest post on my website about Hyderabad before – it’s such a fascinating place to read about! Thank you so much for sharing!

  27. It looks like a lovely place to stay while vacationing or on business in the area. Did anyone else notice the beautifully made, regal swan sitting on the bed? Adorable!

  28. I actually stayed here when I visited Hyderabad a couple of years ago and I have to agree with you. I had a very comfortable stay and would definitely visit again and recommend it to everyone. As you said, the best part about it is the location and how near it is to most tourist landmarks

  33. The concept of Holiday Inn is really great with mid-range rooms and proper service. And express check-in is really important after long hours of travel and transit. The room looks clean and comfortable. Would love to experience their hospitality some time. And Hyderabad is really a beautiful city.

  35. I have fond memories of Hyderabad. It was the first ever trip I went with friends and not parents. Its been more than a decade since that happened. I’d love to go again and re-live those memories and Holiday Inn Express seems like a perfect place to stay.
    I love that wall art. The lunch looks incredibly yummy.

  37. This Holiday Inn really looks like a great deal. It looks so neat and comfortable. I bet the food here is also great.

  40. Looks like a nice and comfy hotel. IHG has great properties and outstanding service. Does this particular hotel pick up all their guests at the airport with a placard?

  41. I’m American so I’m very familiar with the Holiday Inn and their Express hotels. Though, as you said, I do think the Holiday Inn is a great hotel for not only business folk but individuals with families with all the cozy amenities and convenience that they offer. Hyperabad looks like a lovely city to visit and I definitely would embark on adventures to the Birla Temple while there.

  43. I stayed in Holiday Inn in UK and America and never tried it out yet in India. Glad to learn about your honest review here. I have been to India but not this part and hope to explore again to this region.

  45. Holiday inn normally are very comfy and maintain a certain quality and this one surely keeps up with the name and quality. Looks very neat and presentable to. It’s great to see names like these in the indian market. Would definitely stay here if I was in Hyderabad. Thanks for sharing.

  46. With a brand like Holiday Inn , it not caters well to the business segment but also to other segment of travelers around the city. I have always love the hotel vibes wherever i went.

  48. I’ve stayed in some Holiday Inn Express hotels, and I’ve never been disappointed. Thanks for this review, I’d stay here for sure should I find myself in Hyderabad. Plus, it’s always a bonus when amazing food is available for room service. 🙂

  49. It’s not the first time I discover that Holiday Inn Express is more than just a chain hotel. Depending on the area you stay, it may range from a very ordinary hotel to quite a luxurious place. I too had an amazing experience at the Holiday Inn in Passo Robles, California, so I’m not surprised to see that the one in Hyderabad looks so nice.

  50. I really would like to visit Hyderabad one day, not least for the food, as well as the history of the place. The Holiday Inn Express concept, to stay and enjoy the local place whilst also having facilities to get some work done, is appealing.

  52. I have heard of the Holiday Inn Express range of hotels but have never stayed in one. I loved the funky design of the lobby and the bedroom looked perfect for a couple of nights stay. How was the wifi?

  53. Sounds like a seriously awesome Holiday Inn with a ton to do near Hyderabad. I don’t usually stay in hostels, but this is a great option if I choose to do so!

  58. I never been to Hyderabad but heard so much about it. The Holiday Inn Express looks stunning, wow. I would love to stay there for sure. Thanks for the review.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.