PA Life’s features writer took a mini break to Germany, in the vibrant west end district of Munich. Staying at the newly opened Munich Marriott Hotel City West, where sophistication meets Bavarian charm.
As a first time visitor to Germany, I was excited to experience the festive atmosphere of Munich. With its famous Christmas markets, traditional Bavarian food and cultural heritage, the timing was perfect for joining in the Christmas cheer, easy in a city swarmed with 1L Spaten pints and Blutwurst Sausage.
Munich as a corporate destination
We took an early morning flight from Heathrow. The flight only took just under two hours, plus a 25 minute transfer from the airport. Lufthansa airline surprised us with its subtle sophistication, and positively set the tone of the trip. Serving champagne in real glasses and Lindt chocolates, handed out complimentary. These little touches reflect Germanyโs knack for effortless elegance. I typically find this to be incredibly rare when flying aboard.
For leisure or business, the hotelโs modern design, along with its proximity to the cityโs corporate hub, makes it an ideal choice for both business travellers and tourists alike. With 398 rooms and suites, the hotel offers excellent facilities for all types of visitors, from corporate events to relaxing getaways. It really has it all. Munich is one of the top corporate event destinations in Europe, a perfect choice for our features writer to put the MICE hotel to the test.
If you enjoy time in the gym, then the newly equipped gym is a great bonus. It offers most kinds of exercise machines, with its own private changing room with showers. So, you will not wake up your partner if you are an early riser.
Interview with General Manager Renรฉ Mooren
On the last day of the trip, PA Life had the pleasure of interviewing the general manager Renรฉ Mooren over breakfast in the stylish M- Lounge. We discussed the hotel as a MICE venue and the offers they are able to make. Please see their opening party here, for all of the spectacular event opportunities. What you see, is absolutely what you get. He thinks the main attraction is the location, playing a massive role. Taking you to the heart of the city. However, being right outside in order to fit cars and buses for larger events. The combination of the hotel being very high tech but also being hidden, continues to make the hotel incredibly warming. Creating comfort and sustainability.
It is true that a lot of these high tech and sustainable hotels, often are lacking in something and is typically the food and restaurant. But this hotels hidden technology and carefully thought out logistics offers an exceptional Italian restaurant that adds the perfect finishing touch to any stay. Whether for business or leisure, itโs a must-visit for all types of guests.
A note for future guests, Renรฉ shared a local tradition in Munich: residents frequently visit the Hackerbrรผcke bridge, bringing food and drinks to enjoy while watching the sunset. Itโs a beautiful, relaxed way for locals to connect with the cityโs charm and scenic views.
Let’s start with the interior of the Munich Marriott Hotel
Designed by Studio Lux Berlin, the hotel interior and lighting concept blends the district’s industrial heritage with Bavarian charm which creates a story that is mesmerising. As you walk around the city, you can understand the connections the hotel has used to create this unique blend.
We was located on the 6th floor with access to the exclusive M-Lounge, designed for Marriott members to escape the hustle and bustle to work, rest, or grab a drink with friends. The hotel offers a stylish retreat with a stunning view of snow-dusted train tracks. The room exudes warmth and charm, impeccably clean with distinctive Bavarian features that immediately catch the eye. A standout detail is the set of four lions adorning the back of the building. Legend has it that stroking their noses brings good luck.ย The design throughout the hotel is an artful blend of industrial influences, with steel frames inspired by the nearby Hackerbrรผcke bridge. Sustainability is at the heart of the hotel’s ethos, with locally sourced wood incorporated into the structure. Offering a thoughtful fusion of modern comforts and regional craftsmanship.
Visit the notoriously known Munich Christmas markets
Munichโs markets are a festive haven, attracting crowds with their ice rinks, food stalls, and undeniable charm. We began our exploration at the Karlzplatz Market, a picturesque hut-style village with an array of food and drink stalls. We relaxed in a rooftop hut, sharing mulled wine and Spaten beer, embracing the winter magic overlooking the ice skating rink. Our next stop, the Kaiserhof Christmas Village, was nothing short of enchanting. With its timeless German traditions on full display, we indulged in the iconic XXL German sausage! We wound down in a nice cosy bar, sharing some pretzels and watching the football.
The city was very easily accessed, as there was a tram station right outside of the hotel, making this an easy 10 minutes to get there. Ubers and Bolts are also very easily accessed, and connect quickly. Making this the perfect destination for any future stays, such as during the popular Oktoberfest.
Dining In at Munich Marriott Hotel City West
We dined at the hotel’s “Assoluto Ristorante & Vineria,”both evenings. Where the head chef Marco De Cecco and his talented team create a truly exceptional Italian dining experience. The restaurant boasts a stunning interior, exuding luxury and elegance. General Manager Renรฉ Mooren shared, the philosophy behind Assoluto is to elevate the high standards of the hotel, focusing on fresh and locally sourced ingredients that make you feel good from the inside out.
We started with a classic favourite, Chicken Caesar Salad, followed by a perfectly cooked Steak, both of which were incredibly fresh. We shared a couple of sides, including some classic French Fries and Steamed Vegetables. Assoluto also thoughtfully offers plenty of dairy-free options, catering to those with dietary restrictions, which was especially appreciated as we had a lactose allergy in our party. Accompanied by glasses of Moet champagne, I couldnโt help but notice how impeccable the wine glasses wereโan often-overlooked detail, but one that Assoluto certainly nailed, meeting all my high expectations. To savour my sweet tooth, I had the chocolate cake. Which was nothing short of extraordinary. A true highlight to the meal, rich, decadent and perfectly molten.
Try the Room Service
The second evening, we tested out the room service, with similar meal options. After an exhausting day exploring the city. This was the perfect wind down meal as this entered the room on a fully displayed table, and honestly was just perfection. We had the Beef Ragu Spaghetti, which was so delicious and comforting and after day out in the cold.
Sophistication meets Bavarian charm at Munich Marriott Hotel
A standout aspect of our stay was the exceptional service, with the hotel staff truly at the heart of our experience. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with such warmth and attentiveness. When uncertainty arose regarding our flight, we reached out to the hotel to inquire about extending our stay for another night. The team seamlessly arranged everything, easing our anxiety and allowing us to enjoy a stress-free continuation of our trip.
Not only was Munich Marriott Hotel City West voted ‘Best New MICE Hotel in Europe 2024 ‘ at the ‘World Mice Awards’ but the property was also nominated for ‘World’s Best New MICE Hotel 2024’ as the only European property.
Another highlight, recommended by the hotel, was our visit to the Spaten Brewery. This turned out to be a memorable part of our journey, not least because of our incredible tour guide, Martin. His detailed knowledge and personal touch made the tour feel uniquely tailored to us. Afterward, he took us to a traditional German bar, where we sampled a variety of German beers while enjoying pretzels. Martinโs enthusiasm and expertise made the experience truly unforgettable. Thank you Martin!
Fancy visiting Munich?
Contact the hotel through their reservations team here
Give them a call on: +49 89-930793-0
For regular restaurant and hotel reviews, please visit our reviews highlight here
Check out our TikTok and Instagram page for videos our feature writer has developed, showcasing her views on this hotel.
Check our the Munich Marriott Hotel City West on YouTube here