French Flair in the Heart of Philly: A Stay at the Sofitel Philadelphia
December 31st, 2025
If you’re looking for a slice of Parisian elegance right in the middle of Center City, the Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is the place to be. Housed in the former Philadelphia Stock Exchange building, the hotel balances a sense of grand history with crisp, French-inspired modernism.
The Arrival: Suite Upgrades & Welcome Toasts
The "Magnifique" service starts the moment you walk through the door. We were fortunate enough to receive a free upgrade to a suite, which significantly elevated the stay.
The Suite Life: The suites are expansive, with separate living and sleeping areas. The design is chic and understated—think marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and the signature Sofitel "MyBed," which remains one of the most comfortable hotel beds in existence.
A Warm Welcome: Adding to the smooth check-in experience, we were provided with a complimentary welcome cocktail. It’s a small, sophisticated touch that sets the tone for a relaxed stay and gives you a reason to visit the lounge before you’ve even unpacked.
A Prime Rittenhouse Location
The location is arguably the hotel’s greatest asset. You are just two blocks from Rittenhouse Square, putting you at the epicenter of Philadelphia’s best dining and shopping.
Sansom Street Eats: The surrounding blocks on Sansom Street are a foodie’s playground. Within a three-minute walk, you have local legends like Harp & Crown (New American small plates in a gorgeous space) and Giuseppe & Sons (incredible Italian-American vibes and handmade pasta).
Dining & Drinks: Liberté and Chez Colette
The hotel’s own culinary offerings bring a distinct French zest to the Philly food scene.
Liberté Lounge: This is the hotel’s urban-chic restobar. The vibes are upscale and vibrant, making it a popular gathering spot for both guests and locals. It’s the perfect place to use your welcome drink voucher or settle in for a well-crafted cocktail by the fireplace.
Chez Colette: This brasserie feels like a 1920s Paris cafe and is the heart of the hotel’s breakfast service.
The Breakfast: A major win. The buffet is generous, but the French-style made-to-order options (the omelets and buttery crepes) are the standouts. The pastries are flaky enough to rival any Parisian boulangerie.
The Gym: Located on the lower level, the fitness center is large, clean, and well-equipped with LifeFitness cardio machines and plenty of free weights. It’s a fresh, functional space that makes it easy to keep up with a routine while traveling.
The Verdict
The Sofitel Philadelphia is a masterclass in "accessible luxury." It avoids the stiff formality of some of its neighbors while maintaining a level of French sophistication that feels special. Between the spacious suites, the welcome cocktails, and the prime Rittenhouse location, it’s easily one of the most refined stays in the city.
