Salamander Washington DCvsSofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square
Both properties are praised by travel writers. On balance, Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC scores marginally better than Sofitel Washington DC. Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC scores 89 with approval from 15 sources including Concierge, Jetsetter and Condé Nast Traveler.
Salamander Washington DC Show All Reviews
1330 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington DC, DC 20024
From $296/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
Frommer's
"This fabulously luxurious hotel is just a short walk from the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, a quick cab ride to the Capitol, and a Metro stop away from other parts of town." Full review
Concierge
"The sumptuous style, Eastern touches, cosseting service, and excellent food will come as no surprise to anyone who's stayed at a Mandarin Oriental."
Lonely Planet
"The Mandarin delivers about everything you’d expect: big-box swank, ridiculous levels of amenities, service that’s appropriate for a Roman emperor."
Oyster
Luxury
"Opened in 2004, the 400-room Mandarin Oriental has the best spa, pool, and fitness center in the city." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"Monumental views over the Potomac Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial are plentiful at this elegant hotel."
Gayot
"This hotel is located in Southwest DC with stunning views of the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial."
BlackBook
"What this luxury spot lacks in location it makes up for in everything else: The best rooms, the best food and one of the best spa experiences in the city."
Zagat
4.3
""Luxury beyond belief" lures sybarites to this "posh" and "pricey" "oasis of relaxation" distinguished by "exquisite" rooms and suites."
Forbes Travel Guide
4 Stars
"A view of the water is rather unusual for a hotel in Washington, D.C. but Mandarin Oriental boasts an impressive one of the Tidal Basin, the southwest waterfront and the Jefferson Memorial." Full review
Jetsetter
"Mandarin Oriental’s location makes it an ideal home base for hitting the major tourist attractions." Full review
Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square Show All Reviews
806 15th Street NW, Washington DC, DC 20005
From $142/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
Frommer's
"The hotel's ICI Urban Bistro restaurant and Le Bar lounge are popular gathering spots, especially in pleasant weather, when urbanistas jam ICI's terrace tables." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"On a corner of Lafayette Square, this 1862 building has been transformed by the French Sofitel chain into an elegant contemporary hotel."
Star Service
"The well-maintained accommodations revolve around their big beds, with ceiling-high mahogany headboards and cloudlike duvets. Technology is given a boost with the 38-inch flat-screen TVs." Full review
Gayot
"This hotel opened in the summer of 2002 in a historic building dating back to the late 19th century."
BlackBook
"Brand Paris infiltrates America's executive block party with stealth, impeccable taste, and funky striped carpets."
Zagat
4.2
""Incredible" service soars "above all expectations" at this "outstanding", "luxurious" and historic property also boasting "modern, elegant" accommodations."
Lonely Planet
"In a fabulous corner location with lots of windows, the Sofitel’s airy rooms let in loads of natural sunlight." Full review
Jetsetter
"French-infused stay a block from the White House, with Pierre-Yves Rochon interiors and a popular bistro." Full review
Time Out
"From the outside, the Sofitel looks like a typical big-city American hotel, but there’s a clue to some subtle differences: a French flag flying alongside the Stars and Stripes." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"In some way, every Sofitel is a Parisian hotel, and despite the inescapable fact of its location in downtown Washington, the Lafayette is no exception." Full review
i
Try to book corner rooms 14 and 26, which have windows on two sides flooding the space with light.