The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the views and the staff's 'bonjour' hospitality, but many feel the bathrooms were left behind in the 2022 renovation.
Sofitel Melbourne On Collins
$200-350/ night
Book this if You want the best views in Melbourne and a location that screams 'old money' luxury without the chaos of the main drag.
Why People Love It
- Floor-to-ceiling windows in every single room (starting from level 36)
- The 'Paris End' location is quieter and more upscale than the rest of the CBD
- No35 Restaurant offers genuinely spectacular dining views
Quick Take: A grand dame with a fresh face but old bones—the views are world-class, but the shower-over-bath situation is a buzzkill for a 5-star hotel.
Reviewed by @themrswalsh: I spent a romantic Christmas staycation here and honestly, the views from the corner suite are unmatched. Waking up to the sunrise over Melbourne with breakfast in bed was the highlight of our trip. Highly recommend for couples looking to splurge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might hear the hum of the Atrium Bar if you're on the lower guest floors (levels 36-38).
- You're a view junkie who wants to wake up floating above the city
- You appreciate a proper sit-down breakfast with white tablecloths
- You're attending a show at the Princess or Regent Theatre (both steps away)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily and generally thorough, though some guests report missed dusting on high ledges.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean but aging—grout lines in the tiled showers show their age despite scrubbing.
- Maintenance: Good overall, but watch for slow-draining tubs and worn carpets in hallways.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-quality Sofitel MyBed linens; towels are fluffy and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh flowers and expensive perfume; rooms are generally neutral.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ambient buzz from the Atrium Bar (Level 35) affecting floors 36-38
- Elevator chimes in rooms close to the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The lobby is actually on Level 35; the ground floor is just a concierge desk and elevators.
- Club Sofitel access is worth the splurge for the breakfast and evening canapés alone.
- A 1.4% surcharge applies to all credit card payments.
What to pack
- Smart casual outfits (Melbourne dresses up for dinner, especially at this end of town)
- A universal travel adapter (outlets can be sparse near the bed in older room configs)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Luxury Corner King (ends in '01' or '12') for dual-aspect views of the Bay and City
- Club Rooms on Level 47+ for better views and lounge access
Rooms to avoid
- Floors 36-38 if you are sensitive to ambient noise from the bar below
- Standard 'Superior' rooms if you absolutely hate shower-curtains/tubs
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on a high floor (45+) away from the elevators. If possible, a corner room with Bay views would be amazing. Please confirm if my assigned room has a walk-in shower or a shower-over-bath.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no pool?
Correct. There is NO pool. The 'indoor pool' listed on some travel sites is a hallucination or refers to a nearby partner gym.
Are the rooms renovated?
Yes, rooms got a chic $15M refresh in 2022, but the bathrooms largely kept their original (dated) layout.
How much is breakfast?
Buffet breakfast at No35 is around $54 AUD per person if not included in your rate.
Is it good for families?
It's okay, but the lack of a pool and the formal vibe make it better suited for adults or older kids.
What is the 'Paris End' of Collins Street?
It's the eastern end, known for high-end boutiques (Chanel, LV), heritage buildings, and a leafy, European feel.
Can I request a late check-out?
Yes, but it's subject to availability and usually costs extra unless you're an Accor status member.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Atrium Bar on 35' toilets have one of the best views in the city—seriously, go check them out.
- ✨
Ask the concierge for a 'jogging map' of the nearby Tan Track (Royal Botanic Gardens).
- ✨
If you don't have Club access, the cafe in the lobby (Sofis Lounge) does a great high tea.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators are incredibly fast but can make your ears pop.
💡The 'shower over bath' is high-walled; it's a literal climb to get in.
💡You can hear the piano from the 35th floor all the way up to the 40th floor atrium rooms.
💡The ground floor entrance is understated and easy to miss if you're driving past quickly.
💡Room service is surprisingly good but comes with a hefty delivery fee.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is located and what's nearby.