-
€299,99 Incl. VAT
This article was written during the research process for our list of the largest hotel operators in Germany. The list contains a wealth of information, such as the number of locations/hotels (in Germany), information on foreign presence (yes/no), segment served (budget / medium / luxury / mixed), address data, contact details suitable for serial letters and names of the management.
The German hotel landscape offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly accommodation to luxury and premium hotels that meet the highest standards. In this context, the latter category plays an important role in tourism, both as an employer and through its contribution to the regional economy. Some of the leading luxury hotel operators, such as Marriott International, Privathotels Dr. Lohbeck GmbH & Co. KG and Relais & Châteaux, are presented in more detail here.
1. Marriott International
Marriott International is one of the world’s largest hotel operators and also has a strong presence in Germany. The company was founded in the USA in 1927 and offers a broad spectrum of brands ranging from mid-priced to luxury hotels. Marriott’s best-known brands in Germany include The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and St. Regis. These hotels offer luxurious accommodation and outstanding service to meet the needs of affluent business travellers and tourists.
In 2023, Marriott International generated sales of over 23 billion US dollars worldwide and employs more than 377,000 people. In Germany, the company operates numerous hotels in major cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich, where it focuses primarily on the upscale business traveller market and tourists in the luxury segment.
Update 2024: Marriott International has opened its 500th luxury hotel, The St. Regis Riyadh. The company’s portfolio now comprises 69 countries and territories.
2. Privathotels Dr. Lohbeck GmbH & Co. KG
Privathotels Dr Lohbeck GmbH & Co. KG is a family-run company specialising in exclusive boutique hotels and charming country houses. Since it was founded by Dr Lothar Lohbeck in the 1980s, the company has developed into one of the leading private hotel operators in Germany. The brand is known for its individual hotels, which are often housed in historic buildings, giving them a special charm and authenticity.
The current 31 hotels in Germany, Austria and Florida (as of 2024) are all owned by the family. The hotels are located in picturesque locations such as the Allgäu, the Black Forest or on the Baltic Sea coast. Although the company is not as large as Marriott, for example, it has firmly established itself in the German luxury hotel market and employs several hundred people.
3. Relais & Châteaux
Relais & Chateaux is a worldwide association of luxury hotels and restaurants specialising in unique and exclusive travel experiences. Founded in France in 1954, the network now comprises more than 580 hotels in over 60 countries, including many in Germany. Its German members include renowned establishments such as the Hotel Bareiss in the Black Forest and Burg Schlitz in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Relais & Chateaux focuses on individuality, exclusivity and a close connection to local culture and gastronomy. Every hotel or restaurant that is part of this association reflects the philosophy that luxury should also go hand in hand with authenticity, sustainability and local ties. These hotels are often owner-managed and stand out from the large international hotel chains thanks to their personal touch and individual design.
Image source: Roberto Nickson
