Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Beautiful hotel with a warm, welcoming setting. Stayed in a corner room with stunning views and a relaxing bathtub—such a great stay!

If you go to Sydney, STAY HERE! Convenient to everything, every room is beautiful and it is worth EVERY penny. Food was great, every request was immediately addressed. All staff were friendly, helpful. Can't say enough about concierge staff, especially Ian. Having traveled extensively, he is by far the most welcoming person. attentive to everything around him while still making each guest feel uniquely special. That is a gift. Eager to provide information, from suggested restaurants to transportation options, he was professional and personable at the same time. He is truly an asset to this hotel, as are all the staff! Looking forward to returning soon!

Not too bad. The beds weren't locked in place so they moved easily, which was a bit annoying. No drinking water provided. Other than these minor nit picks, the stay was very nice.

We are currently staying at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour for three nights while attending a conference, which also coincided with my birthday yesterday. Sadly, this experience has not lived up to the Sofitel or Accor standard that I know so well from having previously worked within the Accor group. The high standards I once saw consistently delivered are not being met here. A few weeks before arrival, we received a vague email about the Harbourside Shopping Centre “transformation.” In reality, this means a huge construction site directly between the hotel and the harbour. From our midlevel room, views are dominated by cranes and drones, with constant noise during the day. This should have been communicated transparently as guests are paying premium prices for “harbour views” that are severely impacted. Rooms are small for the price, and the lack of bottled water feels like unnecessary cost-cutting at a luxury property. The room service menu is very limited. Breakfast was disappointing, with hot items left sitting for too long and cold items not replenished. Service across the hotel has been lacklustre. At the Champagne Bar, I waited 25 minutes for a single glass of champagne after already waiting 10 minutes just to be acknowledged. A table beside us gave up and left after receiving no service at all. Once served, staff were lovely. The pool area is heavily impacted by construction noise, with the pool bar not operating and views obstructed. It’s an unpleasant space. The gym is small, and the sauna isn’t available for general guest use. Overall, this feels more like a 3.5ish star experience rather than a true 5 star. For the rates charged, guests deserve honesty about the impacts of construction works and a far higher standard of service and amenities. Quick note to add: the doormen are extremely helpful and lovely. Probably the best service in the hotel.