Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Australia’s first international hotel blends 1960s jet-set glamour and French-inspired luxury
10am–4pm
About the building
Opened in 1966, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth – then known as the Wentworth Hotel – is Australia’s first international hotel, hosting many notable visitors over the years, including royals, movie stars, astronauts and dignitaries.
With the growth of tourism to Sydney in the postwar period, Qantas sought to integrate a contemporary hotel into its operations. The airline wanted the hotel to be ‘distinctly Australian in character, using Australian timber, marbles, and stone’. American architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in association with Sydney practice Laurie & Heath designed the building in the postwar International Style. Its distinctive semicircular tower is the largest brick structure in the southern hemisphere and wraps around a 39-metre-wide curved copper awning over the main entrance.
A refurbishment by FK recently breathed new life into the heritage-listed hotel. It blends French-inspired luxury with 1960s jet-set glamour and celebrates Australian artisans and artists, whose lighting, objects and designs feature throughout.
Built
1966
Architect
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Laurie & Heath
Alterations
FK (Fender Katsalidis), 2024
Awards
Design Inn Australasia-Pacific Hotel Design Awards – Hotel of the Year (refurbishment), 2025
Find out more about this building here
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
61–101 Phillip Street, Sydney
Entry details
Sydney Open visitors can explore the public areas of Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, from the arrival lounge and reception to the restaurants and bars on the ground floor and level 5.
10am–4pm
3.30pm
Need to know
Accessible featuresThe building is accessible and there is lift access to all floors. Accessible toilets are available
Toilets availablePhotography allowedNo photography of guests permitted
Food and drink availableDelta Rue, Wentworth Bar
