Hotels in Cologne

Cologne: Where Gothic Splendor Meets Cultural Tapestry

Discover Cologne, a vibrant city that beautifully blends history and modernity. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that towers over the skyline. Stroll along the enchanting Rhine River promenade, dotted with charming cafes and lively street art. Dive into the city's rich cultural scene at its numerous museums, showcasing everything from Roman artifacts to contemporary art. Don’t miss the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with love locks. Whether you’re savoring local Kölsch beer or exploring historic monuments, Cologne promises an unforgettable experience steeped in charm and creativity. For the best hotel rates in Cologne and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cologne

Some of the best places to stay in Cologne are Old Town Cologne, Innenstadt and Stadtmitte. Cologne offers vibrant areas for travelers, with Old Town Cologne showcasing stunning medieval architecture and the iconic Cologne Cathedral. Innenstadt is the bustling city center, perfect for shopping and dining, while Stadtmitte provides a mix of culture and convenience. Hotel accommodations range from boutique hotels to modern chains, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Old Town Cologne is the best choice, providing a charming atmosphere and easy access to major attractions. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Cologne:

1. Old Town CologneOpens in a new window: Old Town Cologne is a vibrant area steeped in culture, making it a perfect base for travelers. Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral and the LANXESS Arena, this area offers a rich blend of history and entertainment. The nearby Cologne Trade Fair Grounds cater to business visitors. For accommodations, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt KölnOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5.0-star option, featuring a full spa, pool services, and business amenities. Another great choice is Excelsior Hotel Ernst am DomOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, which provides family-friendly services and a range of business facilities. Both hotels are ideally situated for exploring the historic charm of Old Town.
2. InnenstadtOpens in a new window: Innenstadt is a bustling cultural hub, perfect for both leisure and business travelers. This area is close to the Cologne Cathedral and the LANXESS Arena, making it convenient for sightseeing and entertainment. Hyatt Regency CologneOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly atmosphere with modern business amenities, while Radisson Blu Hotel, CologneOpens in a new window combines luxury with pet-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers. Both hotels are centrally located, providing easy access to the best of Cologne.
3. StadtmitteOpens in a new window: Stadtmitte is a thriving business district with excellent transport links, ideal for corporate travelers. It is near key venues like Messe Düsseldorf and Mitsubishi Electric Hall. Hotel Kö59 Düsseldorf - Member of Hommage Luxury Hotels CollectionOpens in a new window is a sophisticated 5.0-star hotel that caters to families and business guests alike, while Breidenbacher HofOpens in a new window also focuses on providing a romantic atmosphere, featuring spa services and special packages. These hotels are perfectly positioned for anyone looking to balance work and leisure in the heart of the city.

Things to do in Cologne for first time

Three days in Cologne offers travelers a chance to explore its vibrant cultural scene, from shopping to theater, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of nearby parks and rivers. With opportunities for leisurely walks, boating, and outdoor activities, it's an ideal destination for a refreshing urban escape. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cologne:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Cologne with a visit to Phantasialand, one of Germany's most exciting theme parks. Experience thrilling rides and captivating shows. After a fun-filled day, make your way to Heerstraße, known for its picturesque cherry blossom trees in spring, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Conclude your day by visiting the Beethoven Monument, a tribute to the great composer, where you can enjoy the surrounding park and reflect on the day's adventures.
• Day 2: Start your day at Carl-Duisberg-Park, a beautiful green space ideal for a morning walk. After soaking in the serenity, head to Markuskapelle, a charming chapel located in the heart of the park, where you can admire stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Wrap up your day by exploring Burg Castle, a magnificent fortress that offers insights into the region's history and breathtaking views of the landscape.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Brühl Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning gardens and rich history. After exploring the castle, venture to the Nature Reserve Wahner Heide, where you can immerse yourself in nature with scenic trails and diverse wildlife. End your itinerary at the Beethoven House, where you can delve into the life of the legendary composer and appreciate the exhibitions dedicated to his legacy.

5 tips to find a great Cologne hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cologne is during January, February, and July, when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, it’s best to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure cheaper fares. To fully experience the city's highlights, plan for at least a 2-3 day stay to explore main attractions such as the magnificent cathedral and various museums. This way, you can enjoy a great value for money while immersing yourself in the rich culture of Cologne.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Cologne, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of finding savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to receive updates on flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize any opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate based on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Cologne.
4. Consider your location: Keep your location in mind when booking on Hotels.com for your holiday. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Cologne. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Cologne

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany:

• Gilden im Zims: Celebrated for its authentic Cologne cuisine, this restaurant offers a delightful mix of traditional dishes and contemporary interpretations, showcasing the region's flavors through locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specialties.
• Taku: A culinary gem that merges Asian influences with German precision, Taku is known for its innovative sushi and creative fusion dishes, providing a unique dining experience that emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients and artistic presentations.
• Mangal Restaurant: Famed for its vibrant flavors and warm hospitality, Mangal focuses on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a range of grilled meats and flavorful vegetarian options that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the region while incorporating local elements.

Best time to go to Cologne

Cologne experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.0°F (2.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.1°F (19.5°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Cologne are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, May, June, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.