Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor – a concept by Hyatt

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor? It’s actually in one of those neighborhoods that feels like the real Munich – I mean, not the touristy Marienplatz chaos, but where locals actually hang out. Schwabing has this artsy, university vibe that’s been going strong since the early 1900s, and honestly, staying here puts you right in the middle of it instead of some sterile hotel district.

The building itself is this interesting mix – part of it’s in this gorgeous historic structure, but they’ve done this whole modern renovation that somehow doesn’t feel jarring. When you walk into the lobby, there’s this immediate sense that they’re not trying to be stuffy five-star formal. The staff genuinely seemed to know the neighborhood (I got restaurant recommendations that were spot-on), and check-in was refreshingly quick. I stayed there during Oktoberfest season – which, let’s be honest, is when Munich hotels either shine or completely fall apart – and they handled the madness really well. No crazy lines, rooms were ready on time, and they actually helped arrange transport to the festival grounds without the usual eye-rolling you get at some places.

What I really appreciated was how the rooms felt designed by someone who actually travels. The lighting was warm and adjustable (thank god, not those harsh overhead fluorescents), and there were enough outlets placed where you’d actually use them. The bathroom had proper water pressure – I know that sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how many expensive hotels mess this up. From my window, I could see into the courtyard of an old Bavarian building across the street, which was way more charming than staring at another hotel tower. The neighborhood itself gets lively in the evenings, especially around Münchener Freiheit, but the rooms are well-insulated so it never became a problem. Actually, I kind of liked hearing a bit of the street life – it felt authentic rather than being stuck in some soundproof bubble.

The 8.8 rating makes total sense to me because this place gets the details right without being pretentious about it. It’s the kind of hotel where you can walk to genuine local spots (there’s this tiny bakery around the corner that locals line up at every morning), but you’re also just a quick U-Bahn ride from the main sights when you want to do the tourist thing. I mean, Munich’s public transport is fantastic anyway, but being in Schwabing means you’re connected to everything without feeling like you’re staying in a theme park version of the city.

Facilities