Review of The Charles Hotel Munich

When you picture Munich, you may first envision the lederhosen- and dirndl-filled Oktoberfest. While the festival certainly draws its share of tourism, the city is chock-full of other fantastic finds, and from a brilliant science museum to large playgrounds and Cinderella-like castles in day-trip distance, it makes for a perfect family vacation. The ideal hotel base for your trip? The Charles Hotel Munich, part of the renowned Rocco Forte luxury brand.

The Charles Hotel Review and Highlights for Families

Location

Munich has exceptional public transportation, but centrally located accommodations always make logistics easier. The Charles Hotel couldn’t get more convenient. It is a stone’s throw from the main train station yet tucked in a residential corner — the surroundings are beautiful and the nights are quiet. There is a wonderful playground and botanical garden across the street and plenty of great restaurants nearby.

Accommodations

Rooms at The Charles Hotel are larger than others we have experienced in town and incredibly comfortable. Some have dreamy views toward the botanical gardens and the Alps; others look over the Munich skyline (the contrast of historical and contemporary buildings makes these views my personal favorite). There is a wide a variety of interconnecting options, and Rocco Forte frequently runs promotions that discount the connecting room.

Amenities include bath products for children (even a nonslip mat for the tub if needed) and teddy turndown service for young ones. Our toddler still loves playing with “Charly,” the adorable plush lion mascot. These details make a family stay much easier for parents and tots alike.

Dining

We are sticklers for a great breakfast buffet and The Charles Hotel was prepared to impress. From traditional Bavarian specialties (we ate our fair share of pretzels at breakfast) to a create-your-own juice bar, there is something for the pickiest of eaters here. Anything that can help me sneak veggies into my toddler’s morning meal is a win in my book.

Sophia’s Restaurant is available for all-day dining as well, and while the food and atmosphere will please the most discerning foodie, the restaurant also caters to children. They have a great kids’ menu, bibs and coloring books that highlight the hotel and the city, making for a fun memento when you get home. You can also request in-room bottle warmers and sterilizers for babies. Guests of the hotel receive discounts on children’s meals as well.

Amenities

Although you will want to explore the beautiful Munich surroundings, you could be perfectly content just enjoying the property. The spa is decadent and includes fun treatments for kids and teens like Bling Bling Nails and a Tutti Frutti Massage. The best part of the spa: The indoor pool has family swim time from 11a-6pm daily, a perfect way to balance sightseeing.

When you are finally ready to emerge, the concierge can point you to local activities that are fun for everyone. They have a great city fact sheet for older kids and teens and made the perfect recommendation for us to find a play space on a rainy day.

Service

If you have ever stayed in a Rocco Forte hotel, you know the exemplary warm service that comes standard. The Charles Hotel is no exception to this. When we checked in, our rowdy toddler was kept entertained by the staff. At the restaurant, they always had a high chair ready for us so we didn’t have to wait and seemed to read minds as to what we needed to make the meal go smoothly, from coloring books to delivering our food quickly. There is something intangible about the way The Charles Hotel team serves guests … they are adept at catering to families, and this level of hospitality at will have us seeking out the brand in destinations around the world from now on.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Bavaria on Ciao Bambino

72 hours in Munich with kids

Postcard from Germany: A Bavarian home base amid Alpine splendor

Why Bavaria, Germany is a dream destination for families

Essential tips for visiting Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle

Bavaria at its best: Bachmair Weissach Hotel

Schloss Elmau cultural hideaway and luxury spa in the Bavarian Alps

Katie received a media package to review The Charles Hotel for families. As always, all opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Katie Brown except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.