What it is

A storied 337-room grande dame since 1841, with five buzzing restaurants (including one with two Michelin stars), six bars, and a sumptuous spa and pool lofted above the cityscape with a sliding glass roof.

What it isn't

Hands off. Service here is exemplary, from the doting Golden Key concierge team to the on-site hair salon.

What we think

Call it a royal respite. Bayerischer Hof was the brainchild of Bavarian King Ludwig I back in 1839, when he requested a topnotch hotel be built. Nearly two hundred years later, it remains a pillar of pure excellence—with two Michelin stars twinkling over their Atelier restaurant; a 38-seat cinema designed by Axel Vervoordt; and a jewel box spa offering treatments like chocolate massages. Guest room options are boundless, including a suite inspired by New York City with silk walls and a 1,227 square foot floor plan, and a Junior Suite Deluxe designed by Axel Vervoordt with expertly curated pieces, including ceramics from Japanese artist Kosi Hidama and wood furniture from Vervoordt’s own Gravenwezel workshop. Rather have a more traditional stay? We love the Laura Ashley-style suites, which are adorned in her fanciful and flowery anglophile patterns. Either way, expect gratis water and fresh fruit at check-in; luxe touches such as iPod docking stations and Molton Brown toiletries; and full access to the Blue Spa and on-site Night Club.

You're here because

You will travel for unforgettable meals, and the two Michelin starred Atelier is worth the trip alone. Chef Anton Gschwendtner has stocked the menu with unexpected options, including Wagyu short ribs with smoked eel and black garlic.

The Moment

Tucked into a former salt warehouse, the hotel’s Palais Keller is an ode to modern Bavarian cooking—in a cave-like, subterranean space reimagined by Axel Vervoodt. The only thing more delectable than the fairytale atmosphere? The apple strudel, as good as Oma used to make.

Restaurants & Bars

Atelier - 3 Michelin star restaurant serving seasonal gourmet cuisine

Garden - offers classic and brasserie dishes with a modern twist

Palais Keller - offers modern Bavarian cuisine

Trader Vic's - offers Polynesian specialties

Falk's Bar - award winning cocktails and snacks set in the hall of mirrors

Piano Bar - classic cocktails and live music

Polar Bar - hot snacks and drinks in an outdoor setting

Location

The centuries-old heart of Munich, directly across from the circa 1780 Promenadeplatz public square.