Where you stay sets the tone for your entire trip. As a conscious traveler who believes in curating meaningful luxury experiences, I always choose my accommodations with care. If you’re searching for the best hotels in Munich, Germany (especially something that blends indulgence with authenticity), you’re in the right place!
As someone born and raised in Munich, (see my blogs on Oktoberfest and Christmas Markets!), I know the city inside and out, including the best luxury hotels in Munich. Today, I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorite places to stay when I come back home to visit. The Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is at the top of the pack for luxury hotels in Munich, Germany—I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Now, come with me on a journey filled with simple pleasures, luxury, and slow travel in my beloved hometown at this charming hotel.
Where To Stay in Munich, Germany
If you’re looking for ideas on where to stay in Munich, Germany, start with this elegant retreat tucked in the heart of Munich. While there are many good hotels in Munich, few reach the level of excellence that The Charles Hotel Rocco Forte Munich offers.
I discovered this hotel in 2007 when it first opened (I was living in Italy at the time). The Charles Hotel was the perfect choice as a city break gift for my parents for their wedding anniversary, who live south of Munich in the countryside.
After living in Italy, I returned to Munich, and until I moved to Switzerland, I always enjoyed spending time at The Charles—in the hotel bar, the restaurant, or occasionally in the spa. Now that I live on a Swiss mountain overlooking Lake Lugano, I decided to book a two-day stay at the hotel during one of my regular visits to my parents’ house.
The truth is, while I love the tranquility of mountain life, Munich is my hometown. It’s vibrant, cultural, and always full of energy. Going out in the evening to my favorite restaurants and bars provides me with a change of scenery, allowing me to mingle with others for some social interaction and fun (yes, even when traveling solo in Munich!)
What I Love About The Charles Hotel Rocco Forte Munich
If you’re looking for 5-star hotels in Munich city centre, The Charles offers modern luxury in one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. Nestled in the Lenbachgärten quarter, just steps from the historic Königsplatz, it’s the perfect jumping-off point for your Munich adventures.
Here are some of my personal highlights staying at The Charles:
First Impressions:
- The experience starts with valet parking followed by the friendly and professional check-in (where a late check-out was later arranged promptly and hassle-free).
- The hotel lobby, which flows seamlessly into the bar, is beautiful. It radiates warmth and elegant coziness—it truly invites you to sit down and enjoy.
- The lobby had a trolley with canapés and sparkling wine. I was invited several times for a glass by the receptionist when I returned to the hotel.
- The respectful treatment and friendliness of the staff seem like something from a forgotten era. It was fantastic from start to finish!
- The hotel entrance is locked at night and can be opened by ringing the bell for the night watchman. I find this security system in the city center very pleasant.
The Rooms:
- The hallways are arranged so that you have neighboring rooms, but only on one side of the hallway. The other side faces an outdoor patio, which avoids the noise from loud slamming doors.
- The absolutely perfect isolation of the room means no noise from the city center with the windows closed. I sleep very well thanks to the soundproofing, which is rare in a city hotel!
The Restaurant and Bar:
- Breakfast can be delivered to your room for only a five Euro service charge (a large selection with breakfast combos and à la carte ordering is available). Breakfast in bed might be my favorite part of my stay while I’m a guest there.
- I had lunch in the restaurant and dinner at the bar. The cuisine is creative and Mediterranean, and there’s a champagne selection by the glass!
- They use all fresh, regional products in the kitchen and offer delicious meal options with healthy choices.
- The spacious restaurant bar has been completely renovated with sleek marble tables—a dream for all lovers of natural materials.
The Spa
- The hotel’s spa uses Irene Forte’s organic cosmetics for an upscale touch.
- To relax and unwind during your stay, there are warm stone loungers, a sauna, steam bath, foot Kneipp pools, and a wide range of treatments and massages.
- The fitness room has a view of the luxurious indoor pool.
I’ve stayed at other Rocco Forte Hotels (Hotel Amigo in Brussels, Hotel de Russie in Rome, and Verdura Resort in Sicily). The 5-star experience is consistently exceptional across the board: elegant interiors, attentive service, and a level of comfort that makes you never want to leave.
The Intersection of Slow Travel and Luxury
One of the things I love most about The Charles is how it naturally complements a slow travel mindset. Though it’s centrally located, it’s nestled beside the Old Botanical Garden, giving it an idyllic, almost hidden-away feel.
If you’re planning a trip to Munich and also value slow, intentional travel, give yourself permission to do less. For me, spending time in a luxurious hotel room is already a vacation in itself. I’m at my happiest when I can savor the pleasures that come with a 5-star hotel stay. Let your mood, not your itinerary, guide your day.
For the best hotels in Munich, Germany, and so much more travel insight, follow me on Instagram and stay tuned to the blog. I’m always sharing the inspiration you need for slow travel, conscious living, and luxurious experiences across the globe.
Have you stayed at The Charles before or plan to? Let me know in the comments below!
