Generally thought of as the best hotel in the city, the Willard Inter-Continental (1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, DC 20004, +12026289100, $250+), has played host to every US President since 1853, though those with pampered tastes will be hardpressed to surpass the elegant and historical Swissotel Watergate (2650 Virginia Avenue NW, DC 20037, +12029652300, from $250) or the Four Seasons in Georgetown (2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, DC 20007, +12023420444, from $350).

Less expensive but still gorgeous is the Hotel Washington (515 15th Street NW, DC 20004-1006, +12026385900, $159-$250), with its famous rooftop bar and views of the White House. Not too far away is the Hotel Monaco (700 F Street NW, DC 20004, +12026287277, $159-$250) sporting vibrant boutique-style digs. Along the same lines and with a great French restaurant (Bis) is Capitol Hill’s Hotel George (15 E Street NW, DC 20001, +12023474200, $100-$158), or opt for the bed and breakfasty Swann House (1808 New Hampshire Avenue NW, DC 20009, +12022654414, $100-$158).

The Tabard Inn (1739 N Street NW, DC 20036, +12027851277, www.tabardinn.com, $99) combines eclectic decoration and coziness for travelers on a budget and makes a nice change from the usual phalanx of chain hotels that populate the city.

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