Reputedly one of the friendliest and liveliest cities in Germany, Cologne boasts wonderful architecture, a fascinating history and plenty of lovely cafes and eateries, making it an ideal destination for a city break. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from low-key B&Bs to luxurious five-star hotels. Whether you’re dreaming of quirky modernist design, slick city chic or awesome eateries in restored historic edifices, our pick of the best places to stay in Cologne offers something superb for all tastes and budgets.

Founded by the Romans, Cologne flourished as a medieval trading hub and has since emerged as the Rhineland’s largest city – and now a cultural centre with countless annual events. Bursting with galleries and museums, Cologne boasts a striking Gothic Cathedral, aspects of which date from the 13th century, and a buzzing social scene. Evenings are for strolls along the Rhine, deliciously cosy dinners and cheerful chatter wafting out of Altstadt beer halls.

Strung out on the banks of the Rhine, the charming Old Town is well worth exploring on foot, and some of our favourite properties are set right in the heart of the action. Explorations complete, our pick of the best places to stay in Cologne ensures that you have somewhere special to lay your head — all set for another day of discovery.

The Best Places to Stay in Cologne

For the Old Town

• Stern am Rathaus is a slick city hotel conveniently located in the heart of the Old Town. Think pared-back modern rooms in cool muted tones, a friendly small hotel vibe and a focus on fresh local produce for big breakfasts which set you up for days of exploring!
• Casa Colonia boasts chic rooms kitted out with all the mod. cons for a smart city stay. Highlights include a central location and great service as there are just 13 rooms. The self-catering suite makes this a superb spot for families keen to base themselves within easy reach of the Old Town's main sights.

For City Style

• Hotel Burns Art is a trendy modern hotel with cosy king-sized beds, crisp white sheets, soft maplewood touches and cool statement furniture. The harbour and Rheinpark gardens are nearby, whilst the city centre is easily accessed by underground. Stylish self-catering suites are ideal for longer stays.
• Hopper Hotel St Antonius is housed in a smart red-brick building dating back to 1900, offering a lovely immersion into Cologne’s past. Modern, renovated rooms boast marble-tiled bathrooms, whilst the restaurant serves excellent French cuisine and the vine-clad courtyard terrace is charming.
• Hopper Hotel St Josef, St Antonius’ sister property, offers a chic, comfortable stay in pared-back contemporary bedrooms. Striking artwork discovered during the restoration effort and a central location are particular highlights.
• 25hours The Circle boasts bright and quirky open-plan rooms with exposed concrete ceilings and stacks of character. A striking 1960s rotunda, this dramatic hotel has been modelled on ideas of ‘retro-futurism’. Cool & artsy, with amazing views from the restaurant.

For Romance

• Qvest Hideaway mixes wonderful original features - think vaulted Gothic archways and plenty of marble - with chic contemporary rooms ideal for design-minded grownups. Boasting its own private art gallery and located just a short walk away from the sights, it's an ideal couples' retreat.

For Foodies

• Excelsior Hotel Ernst is a palatial historic hotel with sumptuous guest rooms, marble bathrooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Real luxury and a superb spot for foodies, who will appreciate the innovative, Asian-inspired fare. Tastings menus come highly recommended.
• Hotel im Wasserturm offers a brilliantly unusual experience, with 78 rooms housed in an imposing brick-and-glass water tower. Rooms are smart, bathrooms stylish, and there’s a great spa. The real highlight, however, is the delectable rooftop Bar Botanik, with fabulous 360° views over the city, plus superb cocktails and creative gourmet dishes.

For a Private House or Apartment

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private house, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Cologne?

• Cologne is easily accessible from Cologne Bonn Airport, just nine miles from the city centre. Excellent transport links make travelling into the city by bus or train swift and simple.
• The North Rhine-Westphalia region is great for a road trip! Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Peak season falls in July and August, when visitors can expect the most sunshine. However this is also when the city is at its most crowded and accommodation is likely to be more expensive. Cologne is wonderfully charming in winter, and the Christmas markets are a real highlight!

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to see the best places to stay in Bonn.
• Alternatively, explore our pick of the best places to stay in North Rhine-Westphalia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Cologne