12 Best Hotels in Cologne (Köln), Germany in 2025

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Looking for a place to stay within walking distance of the Cologne Cathedral and other must-see sites? This guide will help you find the perfect place to sleep in the city center of Cologne, Germany.

Home to a world-famous UNESCO heritage site and largest cathedral in Northern Europe, top-notch universities, a chocolate museum, several nearby castles, and so much more, Cologne (Köln) should rank highly in anyone’s Germany travel bucket list – even if just for a short visit.

Cologne is the largest city in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany and is great jumping off point for visiting the Rhein and Mosel regions.

We recently spent a couple days in Cologne so we could update this guide and enjoy the sights. I lived in Cologne for a short time in high school, and Aaron & I have returned to visit this beautiful city in both winter and summer.

Whether you’re looking for overnight accommodations or plan to stay a while, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay in Cologne, Germany.

Quick Answer: Top Hotels in Downtown Cologne

All hotels listed below are in the city center and within a 10-minute walk from the train station, the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), public transportation, restaurants, shopping, Christmas markets, and other must-see sites.

The featured hotels are all in or near the historic district, and only a short walk to the Cologne Cathedral, main train station, shopping area and other popular points of interest.

All have modern and elegant rooms, an en suite bathroom, and free WiFi access. Some have air conditioning, breakfast or amenities like room service, a stylish restaurant, cable channels, a concierge, an indoor swimming pool, laundry service, on-site parking or a roof terrace.

You’ll find boutique hotels, historic buildings, and a couple luxury accommodations for when you want to spurge.

1. Premium hotel closest to Cologne Cathedral: Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
2. King-sized Beds: Lindner Hotel Dom Residence
3. Perfect for families: Hilton Cologne
4. Excellent Old Town location: Stern am Rathaus
5. Another excellent Old Town location: Legend Hotel
6. Convenience and value (where we stayed): Koncept Hotel zum kostbaren Blut
7. If you want an American-style breakfast: Cologne Marriott Hotel
8. Reliable Comfort: Wyndham Köln
9. If you’d like a gourmet German restaurant: Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery
10. Best value for the price: CityClass Hotel Alter Markt
11. If you want to splurge on a luxury 5-star hotel: Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln
12. Best parking facilities: Maritim Hotel Köln

Where Can I Find the Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map, you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet, have it, click here to get access.

Where to Stay in Cologne: Our Recommendations

Cologne is a very walkable city, and fortunately, there are lots of cozy hotels right in the heart of Cologne. Tourist spots that are located away from the center are easily accessible via tram, bus, U-bahn or S-bahn.

The last time we were in Cologne, we stayed at the Kozept Hotel zum kostbaren Blut in the Altstadt near the vibrant pedestrian area full of shopping, restaurants, bars, and cafes. We were able to easily walk to the hotel from the train station (with our luggage) and get to everything we wanted to see and do in the city, including the famous Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), the Rhine river, the Chocolate Museum, the Belgian Quarter, and more.

We highly recommend staying in the downtown area so you have easy access to everything Cologne has to offer (see our Cologne City Guide for what to do and see there). The hotels in this guide are all conveniently located in the city center.

If Cologne will be your first stop in Germany, the nearest large airport to fly into is Düsseldorf. Depending on where you’re flying from, you might be able to get a direct international flight. Frankfurt is a bit further but still convenient.

12 Best Hotels in Cologne 

This guide shows you 12 of the best places to stay in Cologne City Center so you can maximize your stay in this beautiful city.

1. Closest to Cathedral: Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

A highly rated hotel in Cologne, the castle-like features of the Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom look straight out of a fairytale. The historic building was first built in 1863 and offers the best location in the city since it’s right across from the Cologne Cathedral. You’ll also find top-notch service and first-class facilities in this five-star hotel. Definitely perfect for guests looking for luxury accommodation!

PERFECT FOR: Those who want to stay just a few steps away (literally!) from the Cathedral

GUESTS SAY: “The location is great, right in front of the cathedral. The staff was really helpful and ready to help. Great breakfast, amazing cocktail at the bar. We highly recommend the hotel to enjoy Cologne!“

SUMMARY: Imagine waking up everyday to unobstructed views of Cologne Cathedral. Well with Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom being right in front of the Cathedral, it’s more than possible! Not only will you wake up to stunning views, you’ll be doing it from the comfort of luxurious and classically decorated rooms.

➔ Click here to book a room with direct views of the Cologne Cathedral

2. King-sized Beds: Lindner Hotel Dom Residence

The Lindner Hotel Dom Residence is located in the city center with quick access to Cologne’s top spots. The elegant rooms are equipped with an en suite bathroom with bathtub and shower, wifi, A/C, and mini fridge. The hotel has an elevator, a highly-rated buffet breakfast, and on-site parking for a daily fee. Some rooms have a view of the city!

You’ll also enjoy an outdoor terrace, swimming pool, spa, and laundry service. The staff speak English and there’s a 24-hour front desk.

PERFECT FOR: Those looking for a comfortable, affordable hotel in the city center with king-sized beds.

GUESTS SAY: “Great location to the city center and train station. Breakfast was really the best we had on our trip, a ton of options and items always refilled by staffed. The rooms were comfortable and quiet. I would say it was a pretty good value for the price.”

SUMMARY: From spacious rooms and modern design to highly-rated buffet breakfast and central location, this 4-star hotel provides a no-stress, comfortable stay in Cologne.

➔ Click here to book a fuss-free stay with all the comforts and essentials of a modern hotel!

3. Perfect for Families: Hilton Cologne

Hilton Cologne has famous tourist spots right at its doorstep. It’s situated at the heart of Cologne less than a kilometer from the Cologne Cathedral and the Central Station and near the Hohe Strase and Schildergasse shopping centers. Additionally, being part of one of the biggest companies in the hospitality industry, this hotel offers the same excellent service the Hilton brand is known for. Exclusive perks and treats await members of the Hilton Honors!

PERFECT FOR: Families traveling with kids who want spacious rooms in a great location

GUESTS SAY: “Room was spacious and comfortable. Restaurant was great both for dinner and breakfast. Hotel was conveniently located near to the cathedral and main train station. Staff were friendly and helpful.”

SUMMARY: Hilton Hotels are known for their stellar service and first-class facilities, and the Hilton Cologne is no exception. This hotel features family rooms which is perfect for families who want to travel in comfort without sacrificing location and quality of service.

➔ Click here to book a comfortable stay with your family in the heart of Cologne!

4. Excellent Old Town Location: Stern am Rathaus

The highly rated Stern am Rathaus is smaller than some chain hotels but offers a high level of service and comfort in an excellent location. Located on a quieter side street, you are only a few minutes’ walk from many of the best Old Town attractions. The exceptional (included!) breakfast is made with local produce are served at the cafe, and there are many restaurants and bars within a 5-minute walk.

PERFECT FOR: People looking for a loverly stay in Old Town offering great value.

SUMMARY: A highly rated hotel with breakfast and location convenient to the major attractions.

➔ Click here to book this wonderful stay in the heart of Old Town

5. Excellent Old Town location: Legend Hotel

PERFECT FOR: Those looking for a lovely hotel in an excellent location next to the Alter Markt (Old Market) plaza, home to one of the city’s main Christmas markets. The Legend Hotel is just a 3-minute walk to the Rhine and a 5-minutes to the Cologne Cathedral.

GUESTS SAY: “The room was tidy, clean and nicely furnished. The lighting variety was wonderful and the bathroom/shower were amazing. The location was also very convenient – close to restaurants, pubs and the beautiful cathedral/train station.”

SUMMARY: The Legend is a stylish and modern hotel is in a prime location making it easy visit the main sights. Known for its great customer service, the hotel features its own restaurant, bar and daily buffet or continental breakfast.

➔ Check price and availability for the Legend Hotel

6. Convenience and value (where we stayed): Koncept Hotel zum kostbaren Blut

This creative hotel prioritizes sustainability and is in a converted convent above the historic square of Alter Markt.

We loved the slightly funky retro vibe of the hotel. It’s fully equipped with all your standard, modern amenities, and the location is perfect – only a short walk from the train station, Cathedral, Altstadt, Christmas markets, and the Rhine River. It’s also well-connected to public transport.

Self-check-in is the only option, but it was easy, and our room was light, airy and spotless, the bed was super comfortable, and we had a great view of the Cologne Cathedral from our room and balcony. It’s also reasonably priced and there are lots of options for food and drink nearby. Highly recommended!

PERFECT FOR: 2+ people traveling together who are looking for a comfortable, affordable hotel in the Altstadt with character.

SUMMARY: Unique vibe with modern amenities in the perfect location close to sights, food and drink, shopping, the Christmas market, and the train station.

➔ Click here to book this comfortable, affordable, and slightly funky hotel in an excellent location!

7. American-style Breakfast: Cologne Marriott Hotel

CityClass Hotel Alter Markt is a highly rated Cologne hotel for its elegant interiors, modern rooms and convenient location directly on the Alter Markt plaza.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality and location of their accommodation.

GUESTS SAY: “The attached cafe/restaurant was great! Location was excellent! The rooms were very clean. Staff was extremely courteous and helpful! The lounge area was very comfortable to have a drink and relax!“

SUMMARY: The CityClass Hotel Alter Markt is located on the Alter Markt marketplace only 984 feet from the Cologne Cathedral. It’s also very close to the Rhine River, the Great St. Martin Church, and the Museum Ludwig. The hotel features modern room and a bright breakfast room with second level balcony that services breakfast buffet daily. The Cologne Central Station ins 1640 feet or less than a 5-minute walk.

➔ Click here to book a hotel with great value and make the most out of your budget

11. Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln

A Few More Options

If you’re looking for great value, luxury, would prefer to stay a bit outside of the city center, or are looking for something more unique, here are some great options:

• Hotel Casa Colonia – Spacious rooms in quiet neighborhood, close to river and north of main station.
• Premier Inn Koln City Centre – Good value and close to main station and Old Town.
• Savoy Hotel – With its sophisticated suites and interiors, this hotel makes for a great luxury stay. But it’s not as close to the Cologne Cathedral, around a 10-minute walk.
• Hyatt Regency Köln – Upscale hotel featuring modern suites with river views. Comes highly rated though it’s located on the other side of the Rhine. Easily walkable across main bridge.
• Adina Apartment Hotel Cologne – Great, new apartment-style hotel and modern studios. Located on the other side of the Rhine.
• Villahotel Rheinblick – This hotel is a grand villa by the Rhine River with beautiful traditional rooms. Though its unique location means it’s quite far from the city center.

What To Look for in a Hotel in Cologne

When looking for a place to stay in Cologne, we recommend considering which of the factors below are most important to you.

1. Central location in the Altstadt (Old Town) downtown area. In Cologne, if you want to stay in the heart of the city, the best location is within walking distance of the Cathedral. That way you’ll also be close proximity to Cologne central station (which is right across from the Cathedral), all of the main sights, lots of options for food and drinks, and public transportation in general.
   
2. Number and size of beds. You’re likely to have the option to book a variety of bed types – e.g., king (which might be 1 mattress or 2 twins on one king-sized frame – often with 2 duvets), a queen, or 1 or more twins. Sometimes a single room will have a queen or a twin. Not all of these will be available every hotel, though, so be sure to check what type of beds they offer.
   
3. Rooms with en suite full baths. Most hotels offer full en suite bathrooms, some with a bathtub, some with a bathtub and shower combo, others will just have a shower. Some hotels in Germany – usually smaller boutique hotels or budget hotels – will offer rooms with a shared hall bathroom. The hotels in this list have full en suite bathrooms.
   
4. Rooms with A/C. Summers in Germany can at times be hot and humid. Not all hotels in Germany have A/C, so if this is important to you, be sure to specifically look for it before booking. Note: if you don’t have A/C in your hotel, you’ll likely be able to open the windows (though you’re not likely to have a screened-in window). Some hotels offer a fan. It typically cools down in the evenings, so we don’t have A/C, we simply leave the windows open all night and are comfortable (and I’m not someone who tolerates heat very well).
   
5. Breakfast. Most hotels offer free or paid breakfast (sometimes whether or not you get a free breakfast depends on the type of room you book). Many hotels offer a full German breakfast buffet, while others are simpler (bread, Brötchen, cold cuts, jam, coffee, tea). American chain hotels may offer an American-style breakfast (eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc.). Some hotels do not offer breakfast at all but it’s easy to find a cafe, bakery or grocery store nearby.
   
6. An elevator. While you’re likely to find an elevator in large, modern hotels with high floors, stairs might be the only option at older, boutique or smaller hotels. If you don’t mind carrying your luggage up a few flights of stairs, these non-elevator hotels are often quite charming. But if an elevator is important to you, look for larger, modern, or chain hotels.
   
7. Parking. Some city center hotels will offer on-site parking for a daily fee. If there’s no on-site parking, you can likely find a nearby public parking area or on-street parking.
   
8. Free Wi-Fi. Most hotels will offer free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel but it’s a good idea to check on that if having free Wi-Fi is important to you.
   
9. Amenities. Hotels may offer facilities such as a gym, sauna, indoor pool, on-site restaurants and bars, or services like valet parking, a concierge or laundry service. Some even offer babysitting services! Many hotels offer the option to pay at the hotel and fully refundable rooms – sometimes at a slightly higher price than pre-pay or non-refundable rooms.
   
10. Good value. Staying in a popular part of the city will typically cost more than staying further out but you’ll be able to easily walk to many sites and you’ll be close to public transportation. So, you’ll not only have more flexibility during the day, you’ll also save time and stress by not having to “commute” to the city center each day.