Fodor's Expert Review Platzl Hotel

Platzl stands in the historic heart of Munich, near the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall and a couple of minutes' walk from Marienplatz and many other landmarks. It has a lot of old-fashioned Bavarian charm itself, too, with dark wood floors and staff in traditional uniforms who do their best for guests. And while communal areas like the restaurant and breakfast room have that old-school feel, the rooms themselves are more modern.

YOU SHOULD KNOW There is some street noise (not least from revellers at the Hofbräuhaus itself) when windows are open, but the hotel does have A/C.

room

The egg-shell walls, wooden tables, cupboards and accents, and light blues and greys carpets and curtains, provide a stylish modern backdrop to the rooms' best feature: the generously-sized, very comfortable beds.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Not all rooms have coffee and tea facilities - only from the superior class and up.

bathroom

Bathrooms are in white with brown wood, with cosmetics made from beer for the hotel, a nice touch.

lobby

The lobby is large, old-fashioned and comfortable, with dark wood and chandeliers.

The hotel is big on its green credentials, from using heat recyclers in the kitchen to environmentally friendly detergents and recyclable materials.

gym

There's a fitness center, sauna, and steam room. Personal trainers are available.

dining

Pfistermühle restaurant, with 16th-century vaulting, is one of the area's oldest and most historic establishments, and the refined food ain't bad, either. Wirtshaus Ayinger has a similarly traditional vibe, with hearty roast meats, sausage, and fresh fish available, all accompanied by local beers. Breakfast is expensive if not included in your room rate, but it's a good spread if you splash out or get it included.

drinking

Platzl Karee offers coffee and cake in the daytime and then becomes a cozy bar at night, with its wall of greenery. Josefa Bar and Kaffee also works in the day and night as an elegant space for a drink or snacks.