Known in German as Köln, the city of Cologne lies on the banks of the River Rhine. It’s the largest city in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is a cultural giant of western Germany. Astoundingly, Cologne’s history dates back over 2,000 years; it was founded by the Romans during the 1st century AD – that’s some heritage.
Naturally, the center of Cologne is awash with historic architecture, museums, and galleries that celebrate the culture and heritage of this important city. If you want to come and see it all for yourself, don’t worry, the options are plentiful. Getting around is a breeze too, thanks to the buses, U-Bahn and Stadtbahn lines crisscrossing the city.
From modern hotels that are relatively mid-range to high-end options fit for royalty, you’ll have a base to suit your needs when discovering ancient Cologne.
8. Steigenberger Hotel Koln
With a U-Bahn station, Stadtbahn, and bus stop all practically on the doorstep of Steigenberger Hotel Köln, getting around couldn’t be easier. It’s set in a modern building, boasts casual, contemporary rooms, and is located in a business district, but the cultural parts of Cologne aren’t too far away. Both the Ludwig Museum and the fantastic Cologne Cathedral – dating back to the mid-1200s – are just two kilometers from the hotel. In terms of amenities, guests can recline in the lobby lounge, enjoy a drink or two at the onsite bar, or get themselves something to eat in the restaurant.
7. Lindner Hotel Dom Residence
Talk about location; Lindner Hotel Dom Residence is located in Cologne Old Town, which means all the historic sights that the city offers are just a stone’s throw from here. Even some of the rooms boast outstanding views of Cologne Cathedral. This hotel is just a five-minute walk to Cologne train station, making it a convenient place to stay if you’re arriving and leaving by train, or simply using the railway to get around the city. This 4-star hotel itself is definitely a modern affair, boasting contemporary rooms that range from standard to sleek, as well as an indoor pool, a Mediterranean restaurant and bar.
6. Eden Hotel Fruh am Dom
The rooms at this hotel are clean and simple, minimalist in style with color pops and furniture that’s all about clean lines. There’s an onsite restaurant, as well as a bar-lounge in the lobby for evening drinks. Good news for budget travelers: Eden Hotel Früh am Dom offers a complimentary breakfast, so you can leave the hotel full and ready for a day of exploring. Though you won’t need too much energy; the amazing Cologne Cathedral is a mere two minutes walk from the hotel. Other sights are also within easy reach, like museums, bars, restaurants, and cafes.
5. Hilton Cologne
This branch of the well-known hotel chain is a great place to stay if you’re looking for an upscale stay in Cologne. The rooms boast neutral tones, a simple, understated style, and stylish furniture. Amenities abound; there’s a spa, fitness center, 24-hour convenience store and even a bar made out of ice! The onsite restaurant serves up delicious dishes, too. But the location of the Hilton Cologne definitely makes this one of the top places to stay in the city. It’s within easy walking distance of Cologne train station, Cologne Cathedral, and the Museum Ludwig, with its collection of Picassos.
4. Lindner Hotel City Plaza
This modern hotel boasts modern rooms to match – stylish, monochrome affairs that feel sleek and contemporary. You could even upgrade for a larger suite and complimentary breakfast. Speaking of food, there’s a cool grill restaurant onsite, as well as a cocktail bar – but there’s also plenty of places to eat and drink on the doorstep. Just a stone’s throw from the nearest U-Bahn and Stadtbahn stop, Friesenplatz, getting around the city is easy thanks to the location of Lindner Hotel City Plaza. As a bonus, it’s just a 15-minute stroll to Cologne Cathedral from here.
3. Hyatt Regency Koln
Luxury and elegance meet at the Hyatt Regency Köln for a truly upscale stay in this city. The rooms are bright, airy, immaculate and stylish in their neutral simplicity. But of course, there’s much more to this branch of the Hyatt than just comfort and style; there are plenty of amenities too. Think indoor swimming pool, sushi restaurant, spa, sauna, bar, and even beer garden – some of which feature views of the Rhine River. You’ll also be able to walk from here to Cologne Cathedral easily; it’s under 15 minutes away on foot. The nearest Stadtbahn stop, Köln Messe/Deutz, is even closer.
2. Leonardo Hotel Koln
It may be located a little far from the center of town, but Leonardo Hotel Köln is still conveniently placed for exploring the city. There’s a Stadtbahn stop, Köln-Mülheim station, just a few minutes’ walk away from the doorstep of the hotel, which can zoom you all the way to the Old Town of Cologne – complete with Cologne Cathedral – in mere moments. Equally, you could get from here to Bonn International Airport quite easily, too. The rooms at the hotel are colorful, clean and contemporary; upgrade to a suite for a seating area and balcony. There’s a restaurant, a bar, and even an indoor pool.
1. Hotel Santo
A U-Bahn stop just a few minutes’ walk away from Hotel Santo puts you in a good position to explore what Cologne has to offer. In fact, you’ll be able to get directly from the hotel to the legendary beauty of Cologne Cathedral using the U-Bahn. Though the hotel has its own casual restaurant, lounge bar, and breakfast buffet on offer, there is a lot to choose from in the surrounding area; you’ll find everything from bakeries and bars to frozen yogurt shops and Turkish restaurants. When you’re done eating your fill and discovering what’s on the doorstep, return to your modern, neutrally decorated, stylish room at the hotel.
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