3 Best Hotels in Altstadt, Munich

This sleekly designed, subtly luxurious hotel follows the minimalist gospel but also feels warm and inviting, with rooms decorated in neutral tones and subtle patterns and featuring wood floors throughout. The emphasis is on the details—fresh flowers, mattresses made from natural rubber, sheets made of unbleached cotton. Some rooms can be on the cozier side, so if you want more space, opt for the two-bedroom or maisonette suite complete with cooking facilities, in the nearby annex. Doubling as the breakfast area, the chic, loungelike Grapes Weinbar is a lively spot for evening drinks. There's also a small gym.

The welcoming Torbräu has been looking after guests in one form or another since 1490, making it the oldest hotel in Munich, and it has been run by the same family for more than a century. It's next to one of the ancient city gates—Isartor, originating in the 14th century—and the location is perfect for an amble up to Marienplatz, or to the River Isar, then on to the Deutsches Museum. The comfortable rooms are modestly decorated with modern or classic furnishings and suites feature great city views.

There are a number of Mercure hotels in Munich, and all offer standard chain hotel rooms with limited service, but this location, between Marienplatz and Karlsplatz, is ideally situated in the Altstadt. This straightforward, comfortable hotel includes breakfast—and it's better than breakfasts you'll get at some restaurants.