Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square

In September 2023, my wife and I had a very disappointing stay at the Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square (see that review for details). In response, the General Manager graciously apologized and offered us an upgraded room at the same nightly rate if we stayed there again. True to her word, the general manager provided those terms to us even though we did not return until April 2025. The difference in our room quality from 2023 to 2025 was night and day. The 2025 room (number 1026) was in very good condition and was very quiet. Whereas in 2023, my wife hated the room so much that she checked out early (I was prevented by my obligations in DC from checking out with her), this time she loved the room so much that she wants to stay there again. I cannot speak to the other rooms, but the one that the general manager assigned to us in 2025 was excellent.

I had a great stay at Sofitel in DC. The room was spacious and comfortable. Breakfast is delicious (only a la carte, so it is suggested that you purchase it with the booking). The staff is polite and available. Also, it is close to the main attractions in DC.

The location is fantastic, and I assume that is what warrants the high price for the room. The room was very small for an extended stay (we were there 13 nights). The maid service was excellent, as was the front desk. The service in the restaurants, and the menu selection was poor.

The location was great and was our primary driver for the selection bc it is one block from LaFayette Square, two blocks from White House, not too far a drive from House and Senate offices, next to Joe's Seafood, Old Ebbitt, etc... The rate was competitive, our family group of 7 booked 3 rooms in total. Decor was ok but getting worn throughout. Temp in public areas was quite warm. Rooms were small (expected in older bldgs in DC), mattresses worn and losing shape in room 702 (not expected). Mildew in shower along glass (also not expected). Bellmen were the highlight of the place...cheerful, kind, and helpful. Opaline restaurant will be reviewed separately...ate breakfast there 3 of our mornings of this trip.

I stayed for 5 nights at the Sofitel DC in March 2025, and it was a great stay. I didn't really use much of the hotel amenities so can't speak to that too much. I did order room service twice, and my orders arrived very quickly, and I noticed the tray was picked up afterward also very quickly. The hotel location is also extremely convenient. The hotel is within walking distance of the mall area (e.g., Washington Monument, Lincoln memorial, etc.). The room I stayed in was well-maintained, and more than spacious enough, and most importantly for me, very quiet. I didn't hear any outside noise, like cars or sirens, and neither did I hear any interior noise like guests in other rooms or people walking in the hallway. Also, as a Gold member of the Accor loyalty program, it was nice to receive free drink vouchers during my stay (but unfortunately, I didn't get to use them). Overall, I can highly recommend the Sofitel DC.