17 BEST HOTELS in Cologne [December 2024!]

17 BEST HOTELS in Cologne [[date]!] 1

With stunning architecture, a rich Roman history, and a unique culture, Cologne is a fascinating city that offers plenty of awesome things to see and do.

As one of Germany’s largest cities, first-time visitors can, however, find sprawling Cologne a bit overwhelming. So, our expert travel team has compiled this ultimate guide to the best hotels in Cologne.

You’ll find the best hotel for you, whatever your tastes, budget, or interests. We’ve researched the best hotels in Cologne to bring you this fantastic insider guide of where to stay. Spend less time planning your trip and focus on making the most of your time discovering the many delights of captivating Cologne.

And so, here are the very best hotels in Cologne (hint: get ready to be blown away by some amazing hotels!)…

Quick Answers – Best Hotels in Cologne

At A Glance: Best Hotels in Cologne

BEST HOTELS IN COLOGNE
htjltbl-table__image Overall Best HotelOverall Best HotelSavoy Hotel Cologne
  • Top-class spa with a range of treatments
  • Traditional German cuisine and BBQ available
  • Free bike rentals to make exploring Cologne a piece of cake
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near the AirportBest Hotel Near the AirportLeonardo Hotel Koln Bonn Airport
  • Free, round-the-clock airport shuttles
  • Restaurant that serves local fare, beer garden, and bar
  • Spacious sound-proofed rooms for a restful sleep
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near DowntownBest Hotel Near DowntownCologne Marriott Hotel
  • Five-star comfort in the heart of downtown Cologne
  • Excellent facilities, including a fitness centre, lounge, and restaurant
  • Awesome members of staff that really go the extra mile to make your stay perfect
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel for FamiliesBest Hotel for FamiliesExcelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
  • Just a two-minute walk from Cologne Main Station
  • Top-class facilities including a restaurant, bar, and gym
  • Comfortable rooms with all mod-cons
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htjltbl-table__image Best Pet-Friendly HotelBest Pet-Friendly HotelHyatt Regency Koln
  • In the heart of the city centre next to the Rhine River
  • Terrific city views
  • Gorgeous classical-style rooms
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htjltbl-table__image Best Cheap HotelBest Cheap HotelPark Hotel Koln
  • Various room sizes available to accommodate different group sizes
  • Comfortable, homey, and affordable
  • Located a short walk from an underground station
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Cologne CathedralBest Hotel Near Cologne CathedralMaria Suite am Dom
  • Delicious onsite Mediterranean restaurant
  • Modern suites with separate living areas and beautiful bathrooms
  • Just 300 metres from Cologne Cathedral
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near PhantasialandPhantasialandBest Hotel Near PhantasialandHotel Ling Bao
  • Luxurious spa and choice of swimming pools
  • Double and family rooms available
  • Easy access to Cologne and Phantasialand
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htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Neustadt-NordBest Hotel Near Neustadt-NordThe Midtown Hotel
  • Boutique rooms with handmade top-design furnishings
  • Huge buffet breakfast
  • Wide range of activities bookable onsite
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Hotel Near Cologne Main StationBest Hotel Near Cologne Main StationHilton Cologne
  • Two-minute walk from Cologne Main Station
  • Round-the-clock fitness centre and other top-notch wellness facilities
  • Onsite restaurant with international cuisine
Book on Booking.com →

PS Check out our favourite things to do in Cologne, and where to stay in Cologne for more exciting insider tips.

PPS If you’re travelling around Germany, then our other must-read guides to the best hotels in Hamburg and amazing hotels in Berlin will save you time and money, plus our top rated things to do in Hamburg and ultimate things to do in Berlin will give you inspiration for the adventure of a lifetime! Not to mention the 131 ultimate things to do in Europe – check it out!

#1 – Savoy Hotel Cologne

Best Overall Hotel in Cologne

Savoy Hotel Cologne

Savoy Hotel Cologne

  • Top-class spa with a range of treatments
  • Traditional German cuisine and BBQ available
  • Free bike rentals to make exploring Cologne a piece of cake

Savoy Hotel Cologne is our pick for the overall best hotel in Cologne. Rooms are inviting and sure to bring a good night’s sleep, with soundproofing, an en suite bathroom, soft beds, and luxurious linens.

Rooms at the Savoy also have a TV, refrigerator, iPod dock, and free Wi-Fi. Elevators prevent you from having to lug your bags up steps. The spa, gardens, and roof terrace are ideal places to relax, and you can cycle around Cologne with the free-to-use bicycles. Alternatively, book tours onsite for complete convenience.

 

#2 – Leonardo Hotel Koln Bonn Airport

Best Hotel in Cologne Near the Airport

Leonardo Hotel Koln Bonn Airport

Leonardo Hotel Koln Bonn Airport

  • Free, round-the-clock airport shuttles
  • Restaurant that serves local fare, beer garden, and bar
  • Spacious sound-proofed rooms for a restful sleep

Leonardo Hotel Koln Bonn Airport is the best hotel in Cologne near the airport. No need to worry about being disturbed from your slumber by jets though—the spacious, modern rooms are all soundproofed. Each has a private bathroom too, along with a TV, kettle, hairdryer, and other conveniences.

Sample the flavours of Rhine-Ruhr region in the restaurant or kick back pre or post flight in the bar or beer garden. Interconnected rooms make this a family-friendly option, and things like luggage storage, round-the-clock reception, fitness centre, and a tour desk sweeten your stay further.

 

#3 – Cologne Marriott Hotel

Best Hotel in Cologne Near Downtown

Cologne Marriott Hotel

Cologne Marriott Hotel

  • Five-star comfort in the heart of downtown Cologne
  • Excellent facilities, including a fitness centre, lounge, and restaurant
  • Awesome members of staff that really go the extra mile to make your stay perfect

Cologne Marriott Hotel is our choice for the best hotel in Cologne near downtown. Within easy reach of many of Cologne’s major attractions, the top-class hotel provides a warm welcome and comfortable stay.

All of the sophisticated rooms are en suite and daily housekeeping keeps everywhere looking spick and span. Satisfy your hunger in the beautiful restaurant and relax in the lounge. A minimart, fitness centre, tour-booking services, sauna, and gift shop make your stay even more comfortable. There are various room sizes and ample car-parking is available.

 

#4 – Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Cologne

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

  • Just a two-minute walk from Cologne Main Station
  • Top-class facilities including a restaurant, bar, and gym
  • Comfortable rooms with all mod-cons

With terrific on-site amenities and beautiful well-equipped rooms, Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is the best hotel in Cologne for families.

Sitting in the shadow of the magnificent Cologne Dom, the hotel boasts two exceptional restaurants, a bar, a gym, terrace, gift shop and elevators. Child-minding services are available and you can easily arrange activities and book tickets.

Rooms have large bathrooms, ample storage space, TV, and free Wi-Fi. The free breakfast will keep all members of the family happy at the start of the day.

 

#5 – Hyatt Regency Koln

Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Cologne

Hyatt Regency Koln

Hyatt Regency Koln

  • In the heart of the city centre next to the Rhine River
  • Terrific city views
  • Gorgeous classical-style rooms

The Hyatt Regency Koln is one of Cologne’s nicest hotels in every respect; being pet-friendly is an added bonus! You cannot help but be impressed by the striking exterior, and inside you’ll find a stunning restaurant with amazing views, an inviting swimming pool, a fitness centre, and meeting facilities.

Walk your pooch along the banks of the River Rhine or unwind n your beautiful room, which has a marble bathroom, TV, wardrobe, and seating area. The rooms are spacious enough for you and your pet or kids to all feel comfortable.

 

#6 – Park Hotel Koln

Cheap Hotel in Cologne

Park Hotel Koln

Park Hotel Koln

  • Various room sizes available to accommodate different group sizes
  • Comfortable, homey, and affordable
  • Located a short walk from an underground station

Park Hotel Koln is hands-down the best cheap hotel in Cologne. There’s no need to scrimp on comfort—all rooms are en suite and come with a TV.

Located in Höhenberg, you’ll be surrounded by local vibes yet are still within easy reach of the heart of the city. A filling and tasty buffet breakfast is available for an additional charge.

 

MUST READ – You can also check out the most awesome hotels in Cologne

#7 – Maria Suite am Dom

Best Hotel in Cologne Near Cologne Cathedral

Maria Suite am Dom

Maria Suite am Dom

  • Delicious onsite Mediterranean restaurant
  • Modern suites with separate living areas and beautiful bathrooms
  • Just 300 metres from Cologne Cathedral

Steps from the gorgeous landmark, Maria Suite am Dom is the best hotel in Cologne near Cologne Cathedral. Treat yourself to a little luxury in an elegant suite, complete with a minibar, TV, Wi-Fi, and everything you need for a comfortable and intimate stay.

Savour delectable flavours of the Med at the restaurant and order room service for a more romantic meal in private.

You’ll also benefit from luggage storage and onsite parking (surcharges apply), and Cologne’s main station is close to hand too.

 

#8 – Hotel Ling Bao

Best Hotel in Cologne Near Phantasialand

Hotel Ling Bao

Hotel Ling Bao

  • Luxurious spa and choice of swimming pools
  • Double and family rooms available
  • Easy access to Cologne and Phantasialand

The gorgeous Asian-themed Hotel Ling Bao is the best hotel in Cologne near Phantasialand. Wake up close to the theme-park fun and sleep in decadent surroundings.

Situated close to the town of Brühl, the hotel offers lashings of luxury and splendid Chinese delights. Take a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool, pamper yourself in the spa, stroll through the beautiful gardens, enjoy the games room, and munch on tasty cuisine in the Asian restaurant. There are en suite guestrooms for two, three, and four.

 

#9 – The Midtown Hotel

Best Hotel in Cologne Near Neustadt-Nord

The Midtown Hotel

The Midtown Hotel

  • Boutique rooms with handmade top-design furnishings
  • Huge buffet breakfast
  • Wide range of activities bookable onsite

The new and boutique Midtown Hotel is the best hotel in Cologne near Neustadt-Nord. Close to an underground station, it’s also just a short stroll from MediaPark Köln. The Old Town attractions are easy to reach and at Christmastime, there are enchanting markets just a stone’s throw away.

The large buffet breakfast will help you start each day on a high. The attractive rooms are sure to help you get plenty of rest. Sink into the plush bed, catch up on your favourite TV shows, or admire the views from the large windows.

Hit the gym and book a range of tours to add plenty of action to your Cologne city break.

 

#10 – Hilton Cologne

Best Hotel in Cologne Near Cologne Main Station

Hilton Cologne

Hilton Cologne

  • Two-minute walk from Cologne Main Station
  • Round-the-clock fitness centre and other top-notch wellness facilities
  • Onsite restaurant with international cuisine

The Hilton Cologne sits right next to the train station and has excellent facilities and amenities. In our eyes, that makes it the winner when it comes to the best hotel in Cologne near Cologne Main Station.

It’s also a short walk from attractions and nightlife. You can access the high-tech gym at any hour of the day or night and you can also enjoy fitness classes, massages, and spa services during the daytime.

Savour a range of global delicacies at the onsite restaurant before retiring to your beautiful room. All rooms are en suite and each has a TV, phone, kettle, and separate seating area. The property is child and pet-friendly too.

 

More Best Hotels in Cologne

If none of these hotels quite ticked all your boxes, not to worry … here are some more top hotels in Cologne to consider.

#11 – 1st Floor Koln

1st Floor Koln

1st Floor Koln

  • Situated in Nippes, a trendy part of Cologne
  • Fresh clean and modern rooms
  • Onsite laundry facilities

1st Floor Koln is a romantic sanctuary outside of the city chaos. Located in Nippes you’ll find an array of bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops close to hand. Accessing the city centre is easy by public transportation.

The attractive rooms have fun and funky décor. All have an en suite bathroom, some with deep-soaking tubs, and you’ll also find a coffee machine, satellite TV, and Wi-Fi access in your room. Feeling peckish? Grab something tasty from the onsite pizzeria.

 

#12 – Garten-Hotel Ponick

Garten-Hotel Ponick

Garten-Hotel Ponick

  • Close to the scenic and tranquil Stadtwald
  • Conference and meeting facilities
  • Multi-lingual staff members who will help you get the most out of Cologne

The Garten-Hotel Ponick is one of the nicest hotels in Cologne for business travellers. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and within close proximity of the lush green Stadtwald City Park and a golf course, it doesn’t have to be all work and no play.

Chill on the sun deck or in your comfy room, which has a private bathroom, TV, Wi-Fi, a minibar, a desk, and closet. Wake up to a sumptuous buffet breakfast each morning too.

 

Heading to Cologne? These are some of the best day trips from Cologne!

#13 – Hotel Capima

Hotel Capima

Hotel Capima

  • Situated in the calm area of Bilderstoeckchen
  • Top choice for solo travellers and couples
  • Family-run hotel with homey vibes

Hotel Capima is a top Cologne hotel for people looking for a relaxing and home-from-home feeling outside of the hustle and bustle of the city centre. There are single and double rooms, all en suite with a TV and Wi-Fi.

Satisfy your hunger in the excellent onsite Italian restaurant, unwind on the sun terrace, and get plenty of local tips from the friendly owner. Laundry, ironing, and dry-cleaning facilities keep you looking in tip-top condition.

 

#14 – Pullman Cologne

Pullman Cologne

Pullman Cologne

  • Beautiful spa with steam rooms, sauna, and massage services
  • Secure underground parking available onsite
  • Amazing rooftop bar with delicious drinks and great views

Situated right in the heart of Cologne’s vibrant shopping district, there’s never a dull moment when you stay at the sophisticated four-star Pullman Cologne. The ambience is relaxed and the spa offers plenty of opportunities for some TLC.

You can dine in the restaurant or order room service and the top-floor bar is a terrific spot for a nightcap. Business facilities are available, and you’ll also find currency exchange services, laundry services, and 24-hour reception.

 

#15 – Hotel Spiegel

Hotel Spiegel

Hotel Spiegel

  • Fresh air and nature at your fingertips
  • Japanese garden and conservatory with open fire
  • Free bicycle use

Hotel Spiegel is a fabulous Cologne hotel for fans of nature. Located next to Porzer Stadtwald conservation area, you can borrow a bicycle and spend long days in sublime nature.

The rural setting provides a pleasant respite from the city’s noise, though it’s still just a short drive to reach all of Cologne’s major places of interest. You can enjoy a traditional ambience and the rooms are cosy.

Rooms have private bathrooms, a fridge, and a minibar. There’s an onsite restaurant and previous guests have raved about the tasty breakfast. The friendly members of staff can speak a range of languages.

 

#16 – Steigenberger Hotel Koln

Steigenberger Hotel Koln

Steigenberger Hotel Koln

  • Modern rooms with bright splashes of colour
  • Plenty of onsite parking
  • Restaurant, bar, and lounge for downtime

Perfectly located for Hahnentorburg Castle and close to transportation links, Steigenberger Hotel Koln is a top Cologne hotel for people who like unpretentious elegance and brilliant cityscape views. It’s a top choice for families, couples, friends, and business travellers.

There are two restaurants, one serving a varied buffet breakfast and the other offering German and international dishes. Make yourself at home in the en suite rooms, which have a TV, fridge, and coffee machine.

 

#17 – Maternushaus

Maternushaus

Maternushaus

  • 24-hour reception
  • Central location in the Old Town
  • Interesting property that is also a church residency

One of Cologne’s most interesting hotels, Maternushaus is both a hotel and a church residence. The neighbouring church is well worth a peek inside. Guest rooms are en suite with a TV. Stroll in the pretty garden or rent bicycles to explore the surrounding area.

No need to let hunger get the better of you with the onsite restaurant and other facilities include a business centre, vending machines, and luggage storage.

Bonus Hotel!

Servatius Hotel

Servatius Hotel

Servatius Hotel

  • Arty hotel with modern touches
  • Located in Merheim District
  • Free buffet breakfast included in the room price

Servatius Hotel is a top Cologne hotel for people who love an artistic vibe. Located in the Merheim District, it offers a great experience of suburban life too. The buffet breakfast is hearty and filling and you’ll find a selection of restaurants in the nearby area at other times of the day.

Chill in the onsite bar before hitting the hay. Each individually decorated room has plenty of character and flair. All rooms are en suite with a TV, cosy bed, and Wi-Fi.

 

To Sum It All Up…

There you have it, the inside scoop on all of the best hotels in Cologne. Do be sure to book your favourite as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere right in the heart of the action or whether you prefer somewhere with laid-back local vibes, Cologne has a hotel to suit you. From luxury to budget and from modern to traditional, Cologne’s best hotels have something for all.

Still undecided? We highly recommend the Savoy Hotel Cologne as the overall best hotel in Cologne. In a great, central location and offering free bike rentals, it’s an ideal base for exploring Cologne. The spa is the perfect way to relax at the end of a hectic day, and the onsite restaurant and roof terrace are top places to unwind, refuel, and mingle. Sleeping wise, you can check into a well-appointed room or suite.

So, book your Cologne hotel and start looking forward to a terrific city break filled with diversity and fun.

Do you have a favourite Cologne hotel that you’d love to rave about? Think we’ve missed a fabulous find? Drop us a comment below!

About the Author Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson lives to travel! Born in Washington D.C., Emma is a hotel connoisseur and a staff writer at Hotel Jules. An army brat, Emma got the travel bug early and has never been able to stop. Now, she has proudly visited 70+ countries and plans to visit every country in the world! Passionate about her ukelele (obviously) and her family, Emma eventually wants to retire in Thailand and write a book about all of her travel experiences.

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