The Radisson is no ordinary hotel. Shaped like a giant glass-and-steel Ferris wheel, it has become an instant city landmark. The extravagant architecture smoothly segues inside, where you can match your mood to four different room styles, from flashy to sophisticated, subdued to bright. An upbeat, contempo vibe pervades the entire hotel, aided by clever light effects, bold colors and eye-catching elements: suspended glass-encased "Wine Tower" anyone? Its two restaurants are no less striking. Coast is a brasserie and oyster bar, while the more casual Gaia makes culinary forays to the Mediterranean. Smoking is a no-no in more than half of the 428 rooms and suites, which sport the gamut of gadgets, including flat screen TVs, videos and free DSL and Wi-Fi. There are nine conference rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, plus a 6,500-square-foot ballroom. Relaxation zones include a health and beauty center and a clubby cocktail lounge for after-hours martini-and-cigar sessions.

A complete makeover in 2003 propelled this classic 528-room business hotel—situated across from the fairgrounds—into the 21st century. The generous lobby leads to a handful of eateries, including a French brasserie and the Cheers-inspired Champions Sports Bar, decorated with boxing gloves autographed by Muhammad Ali and other paraphernalia. Nearby is the 24-hour business center where you can rent small offices and rely on friendly staff to help you ink that deal. Meeting facilities range from the designed-to-impress boardroom to Frankfurt's largest ballroom with a capacity of up to 1,000. Executive-level rooms—many of them nonsmoking—offer plenty of extras, including access to the ultra-comfortable Executive Lounge where you can help yourself to complimentary drinks and snacks while taking in the stunning views. Keeping up with your exercise routine is easy in the large, state-of-the-art fitness club with Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. Afterwards you'll sleep like a baby on pillowtop mattresses festooned with a forest of pillows.

In business since 1876, the Frankfurter Hof is among the city's most prominent defenders of the grand tradition, but—surprisingly—it's anything but stuffy. In fact, technology-wise this palatial property has always been on the cutting edge, from installing the city's first public phone in 1891 to being one of Germany's first hotels to offer Wi-Fi in 2002. History and character ooze from every paneled wall, sparkling chandelier and marble staircase. No wonder it's always been an A-list playground with a guest roster ranging from Queen Victoria and the Rolling Stones. From small meetings to full-scale conventions, you'll find a conference room that suits your needs, along with all the equipment you could ask for, including a simultaneous translation system. Guestrooms lack no modern comforts either and even the smallest ones provide plenty of elbow room. For a special culinary treat, book a table at the Gourmet-Restaurant Français, or go casual at Oscar's, whose decor pays tribute to Hollywood legends.

Exuding an atmosphere of effortless sophistication, this contender is a great place for feeding your luxury cravings. You'll feel like royalty when pulling up to the 1904 villa, complete with towers, turrets and other fairytale flourishes. Most of the 163 spacious guestrooms and suites occupy a three-wing structure whose architecture perfectly matches the historic mansion. The central courtyard is especially lovely in summer for enjoying a drink, snack or Mediterranean meal. Off to the side are seven conference rooms, all with natural light and the latest technology. The grand ballroom is decorated with hand-painted Italian silk wall coverings and has its own foyer. For the rooms Brit designer Martin Brudnizki has used wood, mirrors and warm, natural colors to create a soothing ambience that's the perfect antidote to a busy day at work. The main kicking-back zone, though, is the three-level spa with its breathtaking granite pool.

If you're in town for extended business, one of the stylish designer suites at this super central property should fit the bill. Its 74 units occupy five upper floors of a high-rise office building in the banking district and around the corner from Goethestrasse, Frankfurt's equivalent of Rodeo Drive. Choose from six floor plans and styles ranging from clubby to fanciful to feminine. Each suite consists of separate living- and bedrooms (with walk-in closet) as well as a kitchenette with hot plate, microwave and refrigerator. Baths are immaculate and feature powerful showers. Windows reaching down to the floor ensure the full visual impact of the 180-degree city views. Naturally, you'll have all the latest communication devices to play with. Meeting facilities are choice but best suited for small gatherings. Unwinding options include a popular bar and a fitness center with sauna.