Munich - Destination Guide
Find here the first edition of my trip advisor de luxe of Munich - one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.
Overview
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history with modern elegance. Known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and world-renowned Oktoberfest, Munich offers an array of luxury experiences that cater to the discerning traveller. From Michelin-starred dining to opulent accommodations and exclusive shopping, this city is a haven for those seeking sophistication and refinement.
Chapters in this guide
How to get there in style
Munich is well-connected and offers various stylish travel options:
Flying in
Munich International Airport (MUC), situated 17.7 miles (28.5 km) northeast of the city, is a major hub for both commercial airlines and private jets.
Private Jet: The airport features three dedicated private jet terminals (FBOs), offering 24-hour VIP services for private jet arrivals and departures, ensuring efficient and luxurious travel.
Alternatively, Munich Oberpfaffenhofen Airport (OBF), located 12.4 miles (20 km) west-southwest of the city, is exclusively designed for private flights and boasts two private jet terminals, providing an excellent alternative for private jet travellers.
Commercial Flights: Major airlines such as Lufthansa, Emirates, and Qatar Airways provide first-class cabins with exceptional service and comfort. The airport’s first-class lounges feature gourmet dining, spa services, and private suites. While it is not Lufthansa main hub (which is FRA), it is treated like a premium hub of the airline in regards to routes and planes. There are nice First and Business Class lounges and Porsche transfers to the plane.
Getting from the airport to the city: There is a slow metro train to the center, which I wouldn’t recommend - not even a first class there. I’d rather spend those 40 mins in a Sixt or Blacklane limousine.
When already in Germany
Train: The German rail network, Deutsche Bahn, offers first-class travel options on its high-speed trains. The scenic journey from cities like Zurich or Vienna can be an experience. But I should say, that the Deutsche Bahn has a bad reputation regarding being on time in general (even for non-German standards). This can mess up your travel plans if you have connections to reach.
Car: Well connected via German Autobahn
When in Munich
Uber is available, as well as SIXT ride (which I like to use) or other limousine services, of course.
Where to stay in style
Top 1%
Rosewood Munich
Opened in 2023 this new outlet of the prestigious brand is well located near the center of Munich and promises an understated luxury feel - I have yet to try it myself and will report back when I do. I hear good things, though. Most likely the best rooms in Munich to date.
The Charles Hotel
Wonderful service and recently soft-renovated rooms, the Charles is located by the old botanical garden not far from the main train station and actual accommodation of choice of Taylor Swift on her tour - see my thorough review!
Mandarin Oriental Munich
The high-end boutique experience in Munich. Exporting their Asian hospitality and combine it with the Bavarian charm results in an irresistible combination by the famous brand. If you plan to go to the Oktoberfest, the MO has a table in the Schützenzelt (more Champagne than beer) for their guests.
Hotel Bayerischer Hof
The classic family-owned luxury hotel where you can meet famous people in the elevator (at least Germany's famous people). While the common areas mostly seem like a 90s cruise ship, the rooftop pool and bar are excellent. Read more in my review!
At these top 1% hotels you will get the VIP treatment if you book with me including upgrades, hotel credit and late check-out.
Second Tier Hotels
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich
BEYOND by Geisel
Hotel München Palace
Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor
Louis Hotel
Königshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel: is this a top 1%?
Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
More affordable hotel recommendations
25hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian
Le Méridien Munich
Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection
Also at most of these second tier and more affordable hotels I can get you VIP perks (while you collect loyalty points if applicable)!
Special mention if you have an early flight: Hilton Munich Airport - very nice experience and two to five minutes walk to either terminal
Where to dine in style
Munich’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with several Michelin-starred and fine dining restaurants:
JAN
Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining
Atelier (in the hotel Bayerischer Hof)
EssZimmer
KOMU
Tantris: A legendary restaurant that is renowned for its innovative cuisine and retro ambiance, making it a must-visit for gourmet enthusiasts.
Tohru in der Schreiberei
Acquarello
Brothers
Gabelspiel
Les Deux
Mountain Hub Gourmet
mural
mural farmhouse - FINE DINE
Showroom
Sparkling Bistro
Tantris DNA
Werneckhof Sigi Schelling
Other recommended restaurants
Schwarzreiter Tagesbar & Restaurant: Situated in the iconic Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, this restaurant serves modern Bavarian cuisine in an elegant setting.
Ola Kala: Perfect greek cuisine!
Guido Al Duomo: Great Italian
Gasthaus Isarthor: good old Bavarian cuisine (cash only!)
Weinhaus Neuner: Amazing local dishes in a casual atmosphere!
For the original Bavarian feel, you need to visit one of the many Biergardens, which offer savoury food and delicious beers:
Hirschgarten
Zum Flaucher
Chinesischer Turm
Biergarten am Wiener Platz
Aumeister
Augustinerkeller
Biergarten im Bavariapark
Das Seehaus
Der Biergarten am Viktualienmarkt
Waldwirtschaft “Wawi”: a little outwards but very Munich-like Biergarten by the river for summer! interesting: live Jazz-band gives an international touch to the traditional setting
Paulaner am Nockherberg: Modern and rustic
Paulaner's Wirtshaus & Biergarten: popular tourist spot from a German beer commercial
Where to get a good drink
There are other drinks than beer in Munich! Here a selection of good watering holes to consider:
Bar Gabányi
Schumann’s Bar (plus Les Fleurs du Mal)
Grapes Weinbar
Vinothek by Geisel
Beautiful Spots
Munich often resembles a small Bavarian town - but it adds sprinkles of grandeur and cosmopolitan vibes here and there which make it unique.
Let these abstract aquarelle depictions of Munich’s beautiful spots inspire you to go see it for yourself.
Englischer Garten
Pinakothek
Königsplatz
Frauenkirche
Where to have good coffee
For a luxurious coffee experience, Munich offers several chic and non-chic cafes:
Man Versus Machine Coffee Roasters: A trendy spot known for its artisanal coffee, minimalist design, and relaxed atmosphere.
Café Frischhut: Famous for its fresh pastries and traditional Bavarian charm, this café is perfect for enjoying a quiet coffee break.
Standl 20: Located in the Elisabethmarkt, this cozy café offers expertly brewed coffee and a selection of gourmet snacks.
Café Dukatz: French-style
Bar Centrale: Italian flair in Munich
Livingroom
Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt
What to do in style
Munich offers a plethora of activities and experiences for the luxury traveler:
Private Tours: Discover Munich’s rich history and culture with a private guided tour. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the BMW Museum (or pick up your car from the BMW factory) with a knowledgeable guide.
Shopping: Explore luxury boutiques and high-end stores along Maximilianstraße, Theatinerstraße, and the Fünf Höfe shopping arcade.
Spa and Wellness: Indulge in a rejuvenating spa day at one of Munich’s luxurious spas, such as the Blue Spa at Hotel Bayerischer Hof or the So SPA at Sofitel Munich Bayerpost.
Cultural Experiences: Attend a performance at the Bavarian State Opera or visit the Pinakothek der Moderne for a dose of world-class art and culture.
Christmas markets: This year the main Christmas market in Munich, the Christkindlsmarkt, takes place from 25. November to 24. December 2024. This traditional Christmas market originated in the 1400s and is situated on the Marienplatz. There are many other spots with Christmas markets and other winter attractions like an ice rink throughout the city, e.g. at Viktualienmarkt, Karlsplatz, and Münchner Residenz.
The Oktoberfest: The most famous Munich invention is taking place on the Theresienwiese each year at the end of September since 1810. The whole world comes here to get drunk on huge humps of beer (1 litre), and sing along to German “Schlager” music. Munichs (and German) celebrities are flocking certain glamour tents like the Käfer Tent.
Dates: Saturday, 21 September 2024 to Sunday, 6 October 2024.
Tents: You don’t need to have a seat in a tent - but for a complete experience, it is definitely recommended - otherwise you are merely visiting a fair (albeit a large one). Here are the tents for a more “boujie” audience:
Schützen-Festzelt: the MO has seats for their guests here and sometimes Arnold Schwarzenegger shows up
Käfer: The celebrity tent
Kufflers Weinzelt: wine > beer
Zur Bratwurst: atmosphere like Kitzbühel
Marstall
Dresscode: Lederhosen and Dirndl or nothing - the traditional Bavarian dresses are important - but technically you can come however you like (some tents only accept Tracht though)
How to get a seat in the tents: Book on their respective websites. Often they are already booked out early. For Käfer, you can book for groups of at least 6 - but it’s not easy to get in as regulars and VIPs get priority. There is another way to get in by using the concierge service I am representing called Perfect.Live - sign-up through this link for a free trial: Perfect.Live Sign-Up - they can usually open any doors.
Auf Wiedersehen
in Munich
If you need help planning your Munich trip or want those VIP perks at Munich’s best hotels, just drop me a line:
