Washington, DC Hotels

With views of the White House and Washington Monument, the W made its mark on the DC scene as soon as it opened in 2009 thanks to its Italian Renaissance style that meets ultra-chic 21st-century cool. The rooms range from Wonderful to Extreme Wow, all in shades of black and white with signature W beds. You’ll need a reservation for the J&G Steakhouse but don’t miss the day beds on the rooftop terrace bar, POV, where you can see the capital's sights lit up at night.

The award-winning Oriental is one of the most popular hotels in Washington, DC. Touches of Feng Shui have made its huge guest rooms calming - in fact, you may not want to leave them. All have Chinese marble bathrooms, silk bed tapestries, flatscreen TVs, high-speed internet access and smashing views of city monuments or the Potomac Tidal Basin. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art spa plus two restaurants - the Asian-inspired, award-winning Cafe MoZU and the Sou'Wester, serving regional American cuisine. For lighter fare or cocktails try the Empress Lounge.

Marilyn Monroe (a J Seward Johnson sculpture) and friendly staff greet guests as they enter the small, comfortable, European-style lobby of St Gregory Luxury Hotel and Suites. Rooms, done in earthy tones and blacks, are spacious and comfortable. The M Street Bar and Grill is quite happening around cocktail hour and for the popular Champagne Brunch. Well located, this Washington, DC hotel is close to three Metro stops and within walking distance of the White House and Georgetown.

Located on an elegant street with embassies as neighbours, and within walking distance of bars, restaurants, shops and the Dupont Circle Metro, this small hotel is a real find. Extensively renovated in 2009, the 75 rooms are decorated in black and white highlighted with fabrics in warm colours. The lobby and rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi internet access and although there is no restaurant, afternoon tea and coffee is served to guests and there is a free wine and cheese reception some evenings.

Under the watchful eye of architect Morris Lapidus, the Washington Plaza sprung up in 1962, placing a resort-like hotel in the middle of a city. Right next to the Smithsonian museums, the location is superb, while its glorious swimming pool, 340 well turned out rooms and recently renovated fitness suite are all as good as any modern contemporaries.