Where to Stay

Munich definitely has lodgings to suit every budget and every taste, but the fact that the city attracts over 6 million visitors a year and is a major trade and convention site, means that rooms are often booked months in advance. It's not always possible to be spontaneous here, so think about your accommodation in advance!

The most famous hotels are all in the city center. Being so centrally located means that these hotels are all within walking distance from the Marienplatz, which makes them ideal starting points for both shopping and sightseeing. The city center is probably the most expensive area to stay but most of the hotels here are first-rate; choose from luxury hotels such as the Platzl, the Bayerisher Hof, or the sumptous Vier Jahreszeiten.

The area around the main railway station (Hauptbahnhof) is also popular with tourists. It's a good area for those who are in Munich on business as you can reach any place in the city or the trade centre easily. Try the Drei Löwen Residenz, the Exelsior or the Mercure, which is next to very near the city's exhibition halls.

Should you need to be near the airport, then try the Arabella Sheraton, which was built primarily to cater for business people. One other option is the Kempinski Airport Hotel.

Backpackers and young travellers may wish to take advantage of one of the city's youth hostels, all of which are well kept and centrally located. Try the friendly and well-located CVJM-Jugendgästehaus.

Those wishing to stay in one of the city's more distinct quarters, should try the traditional Lehel area, which is situated between the English Gardens, the Maximilianstraße and the Isar. Hotels with character in this area are everywhere. Try the Splendid, Blattl's Parkhotel, the Hotel Advocat or the Hotel Adria, which is nice and quiet.

The Nymphenburg district, which is extremely picturesque, has a number of hotels. Many of these are especially family friendly and only a short walk away from the castle. The Hotel Orly is of note.

Useful information:

1. Be sure to book early and remember that popular hotels are likely be full months in advance. You really do need to make a reservation.

2. Be prepared for higher than average rates when the city is host to some of its most famous events such as Oktoberfest or during Fashion Week (March and September).

3. The best time to explore the city is in spring or during the summer months.

4. Find out about public transport links to and from your lodgings - driving in Munich is no fun.

5. Don't be afraid to ask for special rates. Many hotels have a variety of deals, which they will only reveal when asked. Some large hotels also have discount rates for expense-account business travelers.

6. If you do arrive in Munich without having made a reservation, then go to the Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof), where the Tourist Information Bureau (Touristeninformation should be able to help.