Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

A bit disappointed this time We’ve stayed at the Sofitel Darling Harbour in the past and always felt welcomed with a great overall experience — unfortunately, this visit was quite different. We came to celebrate my birthday and our wedding anniversary, spending close to $1,500 for two nights. The check-in process felt impersonal, almost like we were being processed through a line. The hotel did send a cake to our room, but it was dry and unpleasant to eat, which made it feel more like an afterthought than a genuine gesture. Breakfast service was equally disappointing. We were seated in a corner, ordered coffee, and had to chase it up after waiting 15 minutes. Once we finished eating, our plates were left uncleared for another 10 minutes. When I moved them to an empty table nearby, a staff member reprimanded me — which was unnecessary and frankly embarrassing. We also paid for valet parking, called half an hour before departure to have our car ready, and still waited an additional 15 minutes because our request had been forgotten. For a 5-star hotel at this price point, the service simply wasn’t up to standard. I hope this was just an off weekend and that things improve in the future. On a positive note, the rooms remain clean and comfortable, and the location is excellent.

We just had the most amazing stay at the Sofitel Darling Harbour, and we're still buzzing from the experience! From the moment we arrived, we were struck by how incredibly cozy and welcoming the atmosphere was. Despite being a luxurious hotel, it truly felt like a home away from home. One of the absolute highlights was the breathtaking view from our room. Waking up to the glittering waters of Darling Harbour and the vibrant city skyline was simply unforgettable. Whether it was the morning light sparkling on the water or the evening lights twinkling across the city, the panorama was constantly captivating and added such a special touch to our visit. Beyond the stunning aesthetics, what truly elevated our stay was the exceptionally helpful staff. Every single person we encountered went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. From the warm welcome at check-in to their insightful recommendations for exploring Sydney, their genuine kindness and efficiency made all the difference. They were always ready with a smile and a solution, making us feel truly valued and cared for. In every aspect, our time at Sofitel Darling Harbour was nothing short of spectacular. It's a place where luxury meets comfort, and where incredible views are matched by an equally incredible team. We absolutely loved it and can't wait to return!

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Sofitel! From the moment we arrived, the hospitality was outstanding. We were warmly welcomed with refreshing drinks, and the check-in process was smooth and prompt. What made our stay extra special was the thoughtful gesture from the staff when I mentioned it was both my daughter’s and husband’s birthday—they surprised us with slices of cake and birthday notes not just once, but for two days in a row! It was such a sweet and personal touch that really made us feel cared for. The staff were professional, warm, and attentive. The level of service we experienced throughout our stay was exceptional. Thank you, Sofitel, for making our family celebration so memorable—we can’t wait to come back!

Excellent experience at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. After increasingly disappointing stays at the Crown Towers across the water (previous review), we tried the Sofitel and it delivered in full. The lobby was clean and quiet, check in at the Club Millesime was friendly, professional and came with sparking wine. The club was fantastic with complementary afternoon snacks and drinks to go with the views and excellent service. The harbour view corner room was not large, but clean, well appointed and came with amazing views. The room service was impeccable with timely daily services, daily turn down service and super friendly and attentive staff. Thanks Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. I’m looking forward to our next stay sometime soon.

Stayed one night in the luxury corner room with king bed. Specifically wanted the room with the bathroom facing darling harbour. However, was unable to choose which corner of the building we got when booking. Later found out that the aforementioned bathroom was an upgrade at additional cost - no problem, I’ll pay. But to my surprise my upgrade was made as a request - and then rejected. When questioning reception, was told that “we usually don’t give those rooms out to a 1 night stay”. At least he was nice enough to make sure we got a room that was on the corner overlooking darling harbour but the attitude soured my impressions. Otherwise, the room was quaint and pleasant with character. Easy access to light rail and darling harbour. Guest app was informative, and overall systems are good. Except for the marketing email for spa services sent after we’ve already checked out.

This was our 5th visit and as always this hotel does not disappoint. Everything and everyone was amazing. The hotel Manager Robert always makes time to say hello and makes sure everything is going smoothly. The rooms were immaculate and serviced to the highest of standards. The lounge is our favourite place in this hotel the new lounge Manager is very friendly and professional and as always we were very well looked after by Elmo, Wayne and Gracie to name a few and a new supervisor Shirish made us extremely welcome and is an excellent addition to the lounge team. The entire stay was incredible and memorable and thank you to all involved in making it so enjoyable.

We stayed at Sofitel Darling Harbour for 5 nights during a family vacation and were truly impressed by the exceptional level of service. From the moment we arrived, the staff were warm, attentive, and professional. A special thank you to Bob who went above and beyond to make our stay perfect. He was always available with a smile, offered fantastic local recommendations, and made sure every detail was taken care of—whether it was a smooth check-in, helping with luggage. Also, a heartfelt thank you to Vincent, whose hospitality and dedication to service truly stood out. He ensured every meal was a delight and made dining at the hotel perfect. The room was spotless, the facilities were top-notch, and the breakfast was delicious. But it was really the personalized service that made this hotel stand out. Highly recommended—we’ll definitely return!

We were really let down by our stay at this hotel. For the price, we expected far more. I’ve stayed in nicer hotels with better views for significantly less. We booked a “corner king room” expecting something special, but the only view was of ongoing construction not exactly what was advertised. When we arrived, the air vent had fallen out of the ceiling, and dust had scattered all over the room. We were told we’d be moved, but instead, someone was sent up to temporarily fix the vent and a cleaner came in to tidy up. This whole process took over an hour , an hour we could have spent relaxing and enjoying the room we paid a premium for. Any other hotel would have moved us immediately without hesitation. To make matters worse, the air vent continued to fall three more times throughout the night, which completely disrupted our stay. We ended up not even using the bath that we paid extra for, which felt like a complete waste. Overall, the experience didn’t match the price tag or the expectations set by the hotel’s advertising. Would not stay again.

Loved staying here. After a week of hostels around Australia and New Zealand, this was a nice refresher. We had actually been booked for an Airbnb, but upon arrival there, we weren't comfortable staying. Thankfully Sofitel was able to take us in at 11:30pm and were super hospitable at such a late hour. The rooms were large and clean, the infinity pool was beautiful, and it was in a phenomenal location on the harbor. So glad we finished our trip here

I stayed at the Sofitel in the Sydney Darling Harbor at the end of March. It's in a great location, light rail is right across the way which is very convenient. The room was an average hotel room. The bathroom setup is kind of odd because it's right next to the bed which means you can hear everything that's going on in the bathroom from the outside even with the door closed. If this is how the room was going to be designed, they should have installed a fan in the bathroom for a little privacy, lol. There were a few hiccups of our first 2 days when house cleaning didn't clean our room and left our leftovers from room service all day even though we asked the front desk if they could clear it. The room smelled when we returned. Anyhow, the lobby is nice, there's coffee bar/bar right there. Most of the staff were very nice and helpful. There is a lot of construction/cranes which we were unaware of in that area which kills the view from the pool. We went to the pool at night to enjoy a warm evening but that was cut short as there were huge cockroaches coming under the concreate of areas were concrete titles should be grouted - disgusting! Needless to say, we packed up and ran back up to our room. The Champagne Bar is overrated, overpriced and we had horrible service the evening of 3/27/25. I asked one of the staff if we could order from her and she goes, "I'm new" and walked away. God forbid she learns her job and our original waiter kept walking past our table and seemed to be ignoring us when we tried asking for our bill. However, we also tried The Atelier Bar the evening of 3/29/25 and it was so much better, but they did try to charge us for an extra round that we did not have. We did have a first round which was already paid for with proof of the receipt. I think or at least I hope it was just that confusion of the first round. But just because we're drinking doesn't mean we're not paying attention :-) Anyhow, for the most part, it was a pleasant stay.

Sadly, I have to give a one-star review when I rarely give one star. Looking for an early coffee on my harbour walk, I thought I would try Sofitel for a coffee. What a mistake; not only was it the worst coffee I have ever had, it was $6.70 when the competition locally charges $4.50 even the luxury hotel cafe at QT that has the ambience of an amazing cafe charge only $5. Now back to the coffee, it was not made to order 'extra hot' it was luke warm and extremely bitter, you could taste the grounds as if they were bits of sand in the cup. The ambience was typical large hotel buffet breakfast style, music not relaxing at all, and a very bad experience overall. I even asked to see the barista area to make sure it was not a machine-based coffee and I was saddended to see the barista hidden behind a screen out of the dining area's view. Now, I like to say hi to my barista not have them treated like second-class workers hidden out back. Now if you just want a coffee wait for the surrounding cafes to open and consider other options.

I stayed for a weekend getaway in a corner suite at Sofitel Darling Harbour with Club Millisime access. It was an excellent stay. The room was modern, included a free standing bath and was appointed with Balmain toiletries. The room overlooked Darling harbour and the Sydney CBD and also provided a unique perspective of ANZAC bridge. Club Millisime access was a fantastic addition to the stay. Breakfast served in the top floor club on weekends. Club Millisime also treated its guests to included drinks and canapés from 5.30pm until 7pm and an ample selection of cakes, sandwiches and coffees in the afternoon. The infinity pool boasts a spectacular view of Darling harbour and the city, so be sure to book in your two hour slot. The gym is is appointed and relatively spacious too. Excellent customer service in Club Millisime and from the front of house and concierge staff topped off a perfect stay.

I reserved our room online and the photo showed the stunning bathroom views of the harbor, but when we arrived they said those rooms were all booked. I was so bummed but what can you do? I reserved through hotels.com so it is what it is. The girl could see I was disappointed, I mean I had travelled all the way from Los Angeles and was excited for the view so when we came back a couple hours later to get our key (we had arrived early) she didn't even say anything! We walked up to the room and that lovely woman had managed to get us the room we were hoping for! What an experience! I literally sat in that tub overlooking the harbor for 4 hours. 11/10 absolutely would recommend. Maybe give them a shout ahead of time to assure your rooms location because who knows if you'll cross paths with that angel.

I had such a memorable stay at the Sofitel Darling Harbour. This hotel property does provide luxury amenities and services. Rooms are extremely comfortable, tastefully decorated, and provide high end amenities. I'd definitely recommend to book a room with Harbour view as it's so beautiful. But what impressed me the most was the level of service that exceeded my expectations. Staff was extremely attentive, professional, and friendly. Any request was treated quickly and efficiently.

We have stayed 4 times now and find it easy in so many ways. Driving over the bridge is fast to the Darling Harbour exit, much better than other city hotels! Handy to everything, fantastic rooms and views and if you choose the Club Milleseme package, it has the best view and breakfast. And don't forget the Champagne Bar! The only downside is the Valet parking at $79 per night, very expensive.

1 night layover. Speed check in on 28 June night in priority lane. Friendly reception. Fast WiFi. Modern room. Clickety fan over door in ventilation shaft. Great view from 24 floor. Buffet breakfast included for $1. Amazing. Gym was new & squeaky clean. New weights. 15 min walk to town hall station for airport train. Will bring the kids back!

Have been staying at quite a few Accor properties and Sofitel is one of their brands . Just tried to check in at 9 am and was told by Alice at checkin that it was impossible. Three colleagues that are not members got early check-in .. This has happened before at Accor's Fairmont property in Boston so I think you they have a policy of better treatment to attract non members. Tip of day is not to be part of the loyalty program and you'll get better service..

The location and the hotel are very nice. The reception desk is very unorganized. Long story short, they didn't hold our room that was reserved and prepaid for two months. So when we arrived late at night from overseas travel, we waited for almost one hour to get a room. First, they actually gave us a key TO SOMEONE ELSE'S OCCUPIED ROOM. We came back to the desk livid. After another 20 minutes of yelling they begrudgingly gave us a room that was higher priced than what we reserved because it was all that was left. After this fiasco, the room itself and the location were fine and we had no further hiccups.

Good location with lots of restaurants nearby, clean and spacious rooms and reasonably good staff. But not sure how you can have a business hotel in which WiFi barely works for many of the floors. I had to do my work in the lobby or restaurant since these are only floors that seem to have consistent internet connectivity. It was a long week.