In any city or importance and size like Frankfurt, there will always be a range of accommodation to suit every type and pocket. Finding one that provides a little bit more than a standard hotel normally offers takes some hunting. I am not talking about extra pillows or sheets made from the finest Egyptian cotton but ambience and history.
I was quite pleased when I booked into the luxurious Sofitel Frankfurt Opera and found links with probably the most famous German writer of all, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
The link is with a restaurant called Schönemann where I had breakfast. It is named after a famous and wealthy banking family who used to run a salon in the eighteenth century. It was at the salon that Goethe met Lili Schönemann, and with whom there was a ten-month romance in 1775. Long after the romance ended Goethe included references to her in his works of his life. Incidentally, the bar in the hotel is called Lili’s!
Sofitel say they are committed to keep the historical attachments combined with its unique hospitality and the Goethe family home at 23 Großer Hirschgraben is not far away.
As I stepped into the lobby of the Sofitel Frankfurt, I was fascinated by its design and decor. It was like being in an art gallery. The French Parisian style dominates the hotel throughout it’s hallways and rooms. In every corner, you will find something different, from paintings to jars and unusual art works. The Accor certainly brings a ‘Touch of France’ to the heart of Germany. The staff even welcome you with ‘Bonjour’ to remind you that you are in a French environment.
But before that breakfast I took the opportunity to swim in the pool which, although belonging to First Fitness, can be used by Sofitel guests. It is complemented by a So SPA, a small gym for guests and a very relaxing sauna and steam room. There are also several treatment rooms. 
If you wish to be pampered after a long day doing business in the city or exploring the city’s landmarks, Sofitel So SPA is the place for you.
The Schönemann restaurant provides a view over Alte Oper, the original opera house in Frankfurt as well as the city centre.
The city of Frankfurt was preparing for the Museum Embankment Festival. This annual event on the last weekend in August celebrates and showcases the city’s art and culture along the banks of the Main River. I was lucky enough to be in Frankfurt at the right time to enjoy the Embankment Festival’s atmosphere and buzz.
During my stay I also had a chance to visit some of the city’s highlights such as Goethe House, Main Tower, St Paul’s Church, Frankfurt Cathedral, the Architecture Museum and the German Film Museum. There is a lot more to see and do in Frankfurt.
Earlier, I wrote that the hotel was luxurious. Book a suite and you even have your own butler!
More information
For more info about Frankfurt visit www.frankfurt-rhein-main.de/en/Region.
To find out more about Sofitel and book your next trip, please visit www.accorhotels.com
To see more of Reza’s images of Frankfurt go to www.amirinia.com/germany
Images and story © Mohammed Reza Amirinia
