The Charles Hotel

Anyone with even a passing acquaintance with Munich will recognise that locating a stylish hotel room in the immediate vicinity of the main train station is no mean feat. Save for a smattering of exceptions—two of which merit particular acclaim—travellers in this quarter can expect nothing more than soulless, run-of-the-mill hotels. Fortunately, since 2007, there has been The Charles, another hotel gem from Sir Rocco Forte and his like-minded sister, the designer Olga Polizzi. Situated in the very heart of the city, this Art Deco–inspired retreat transports guests to another world. The credit goes not only to its opulent ambiance but primarily to its singular site. From the majority of the 160 rooms and suites, the vista sweeps across the Old Botanical Garden. That translates to lush greenery as far as the eye can see, and, at best, the gentle chirping of birds—provided one’s city-weary ears can detect it amid the urban clamour. The lobby and the new “Circle Bar” underwent renovation in 2025. Art Deco elements dominate the bar, located at the rear of the lobby. It offers champagne, snacks, coffee, and pastries inspired by aperitivo culture, while artwork by Francois Mascarello and Mauro Staccioli complements the ambiance.

Breathtakingly Unique

Whether it’s a Classic Room or a Presidential 2-Bedroom Suite: Each bedroom and living area is individually styled and bears Rocco Forte’s signature connection to the destination. Carefully selected art objects by artists who work in Munich or have a special affinity for the city, together with furniture and decorative elements custom-made for the hotel, complete the design concept. The grandest and most spectacular of all, the Montforte Royal Suite spans 200 square metres and boasts a Bechstein grand piano, a marble bathroom with a steam cabin, and a breathtaking vista stretching all the way to the peaks of the Alps.
And speaking of superlatives, the 15-by-8-metre indoor pool in the spa area is also one of the largest in Munich’s hotels.

Green, green, green

. The culinary programme at the hotel’s Florio restaurant centres on exceptional ingredients—an experience complemented by a separate bar. The restaurant is led by Executive Chef Caspar Bork. In summer, the restaurant enchants guests with its terrace nestled among the greenery. The 200-square-meter terrace has been redesigned to resemble a park. Wrought-iron furniture, shades of green, and comfortable textiles are intended to create a retreat in the heart of Munich. As the summer outdoor area of the “Florio” restaurant, it complements the new restaurant concept set to open in September 2024. Photos: The Charles Hotel