5 BEST Neighborhoods in Cologne [December 2024!]

When someone says ‘Cologne’, the first thing that pops into your mind is no doubt the fragrance. But what about the 2000-year-old city that invented it?

This cool cultural capital has a lot to offer and is a favourite destination for history lovers and die-hard party people alike. Like much of Germany, this university city can be a pricey place to visit for the uninitiated.

That’s why our crack team of travel experts have put their heads together to come up with this guide of where to stay in Cologne, based on your budget, and your interests.

We’ve done the hard work, so you don’t have to, and you can start planning just how to fit that enormous cathedral into one killer shot! It’s harder than you think!So read on, and keep an eye out coz we’ll throw in some bonus insider tips on food and activities as well as the best advice on where to stay in Cologne, or Koln, as the locals call it.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Quick tips – Where to stay in Cologne

At A Glance: Where To Stay In COLOGNE

Where to stay in Cologne

Not too fussed about where you’ll stay and just looking for the best accommodation your figures can buy? Have a look through our favourite choices for Cologne as a whole!

WHERE TO STAY IN COLOGNE
htjltbl-table__image Best Air BnBBest Air BnBJulie’s Air BnB apartment
  • Air conditioning
  • Bedroom comforts
  • Laptop-friendly workspace
Book on Air BnB →
htjltbl-table__image Best Air BnBBest Air BnBAnke & Joe’s Air BnB
  • Laptop-friendly workspace
  • Essentials
  • Carbon monoxide alarm
Book on Air BnB →
htjltbl-table__image Best Budget HotelBest Budget HotelHotel Eigelstein
  • Restaurant
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pets allowed
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Mid-Range HotelBest Mid-Range HotelHotel Capima
  • Free parking
  • Spa
  • Non-smoking room
Book on Booking.com →
htjltbl-table__image Best Luxury HotelBest Luxury HotelExcelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Pets allowed
  • Restaurant
Book on Booking.com →

Best Air BnB in Cologne – Anke & Joe’s Air BnB

Anke & Joe’s Air BnB 

Anke & Joe’s Air BnB  is the best Air BnB in Cologne

Location is indeed everything. And that’s why tons of travelers have raved about this Cologne Air BnB rental. For years, this Air BnB loft has been a host to innumerable travelers from all over the world, thanks to its convenient location. 

In fact, the Rhine meadows, as well as several botanical gardens and parks, are just a stone’s throw away from this property.

But, there’s more to this property than its perfect location. As a guest, you get to stay in a top-floor apartment with a couple of bathrooms, a designer kitchen, a balcony, two bedrooms, and a spacious living room.

 

Best budget hotel overall – Hotel Eigelstein

Hotel Eigelstein

Hotel Eigelstein is the best budget hotel in Cologne

The value-for-money Hotel Eigelstein, in Altstadt-Nord, has homely interiors for all their spacious rooms. All rooms have a range of amenities that will help to ensure a comfortable stay. Rated 9.0 on popular sites, the hotel is in a convenient location, near to the main tourist and shopping areas.

 

Best mid-range overall – Hotel Capima

Hotel Capima

Hotel Capima is the best mid-range in Cologne

The light wood-panelling of the Hotel Capima’s shared and private areas gives an airy and comfortable feel to the hotel, located in the Nippes neighbourhood. A buffet breakfast is on offer in the immaculate dining room, and guests can avail themselves of the onsite casino in the evenings, for an extra thrill!

 

Best luxury overall – Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is the best luxury in Cologne

Excelsior Hotel’s rooms have been described by guests as exquisite, offering movies-on-demand and a mini bar. Located in the heart of Innenstadt, in the very centre of the city, the hotel features a gym, sauna and a Turkish steam bath.
Guests of Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom are invited to experience Asian cuisine at Taku, or try French dishes at Hanse Stube. In the evening, guests can wind down in the comfortable lounge bar.

 

Cologne’s Neighborhood Guide

Cologne

Cologne

Located in the west of Germany, not far from neighbouring Netherlands and Belgium, Cologne is the largest city on the Rhine river.

It’s a funky, laidback university city that has a different atmosphere to the efficient rigidity of some other German centres.

Koln Karneval, for example, from November to March, is a five-month long ‘fifth season’ to the city. It culminates in a week of ‘crazy days’, with dress ups and parades to rival any of those seen in Rio!

With a cityscape dominated by the behemoth that is the Cologne Cathedral in Altstadt, there are more galleries and museums that could be expected in a city of this size. Add to that neighbourhoods of stunning architecture dating back hundreds of years, and you’ve got a well-rounded scene for tourism.

And with the most pubs per person in Germany and a burgeoning river life scene, you’ll never go thirsty, or bored!

The 9 larger neighbourhoods of Cologne nearly all adjoin to the central city or share borders with the Rhine that runs through it.

For example, Mulheim is your go-to to get amongst the lively Turkish community. Cross the river from the centre to grab a world-class doner kebab. Or Rathenauplatz, which is idyllic for those looking for an area unscathed by WW2 bombs. Nestled behind a student street, the beer garden in the park here is an ideal way to while away a sunny afternoon.

So let’s find the perfect spot, in this hip haven of culture and craziness, for you to rest your head!

Cologne’s five best neighbourhoods to stay in…

Neighborhood #1 – Altstadt-Nord

(Where to stay in Cologne first time)

Altstadt-Nord

Altstadt-Nord is our pick for where to stay in Cologne first time

Altstadt-Nord (North) is the absolute epicentre of all things Cologne. It is the site of the hub of the transport of the area, right in the middle of town.

It’s the perfect place for those new to the city as you can barely take a step in any direction without finding yourself in front of something noteworthy.

First and foremost, this is the home of Cologne Cathedral. This glorious building is visible from almost everywhere in the city and is guaranteed to impress. Seeing it for the first time as you exit the central station, your head will keep going up, and up, and up, to try and take in the height of those spires. Coming to terms with its sheer ground size is another story!

Altstadt-Nord is also the site of most of the Old Town. Though 76% of it was destroyed in WW2, it has been painstakingly rebuilt to recapture the charm and olden-days feel of centuries gone by. This is a lovely place to simply wander through the narrow winding alleys, or linger at the traditional tap houses en route. Home to a number of handicraft markets, frequented by locals and visitors alike, you can pick up souvenirs for the home here, while supporting small local business.

Head to Glockenstrasse to find the origins of cologne perfume, as the famous 4711 was named after this street number, a homage by the perfumer to its humble beginnings.

Things to do in Altstadt-Nord –

  • Marvel at the Koln Dom – the Cologne Cathedral
  • Wander the narrow streets of the Old Town
  • Buy an original 4711 cologne at the store at that number on Glockenstrasse
  • Explore the Alter Markt, looking for crafts
  • Go shopping in the retail heaven of its streets

Where to Stay in Altstadt-Nord

Best Air BnB in Altstadt-Nord – Marina’s Air BnB

Marina’s Air BnB 

Marina’s Air BnB  is the best Air BnB in Altstadt-Nord

Set right at the heart of Cologne, this Air BnB apartment beckons travelers with a central and convenient location. Here, you’ll get quick and easy access to the Old Town, Cologne Cathedral and Cologne Mediapark. 

Plus, it has a laid-back feel and allows you to use their dining room as well as the kitchen.

 

Best budget hotel in Altstadt-Nord – Hotel Windsor Cologne

Hotel Windsor Cologne

Hotel Windsor Cologne is the best Hotel Windsor Cologne

Less than 20 minutes on foot from Cologne Central Station, the hotel offers guests an ideal base when in Cologne. It is situated just a short stroll from a number of popular bars, clubs and restaurants.
Multilingual staff are available to help with reservations or dining recommendations for those staying in their bright, recently refurbished rooms.

 

Ready to book? We’ve put together our favorite places to stay in Munich so you don’t have to stress!

Best mid-range hotel in Altstadt-Nord – Hotel Sandmanns am Dom

Hotel Sandmanns am Dom

Hotel Sandmanns am Dom is the best mid-range hotel in Altstadt-Nord

Only two minutes walk from the central station, Hotel Sandmanns am Dom is close to Cologne Cathedral, eateries and shops.
This 3-star hotel offers an express check-in and check-out feature, luggage storage and free Wi-Fi. Guests of the 11 rooms (book quickly to not miss out!) will find a gift shop within the complex.
On-site dining options include a restaurant, which is an ideal place to enjoy a meal.

 

Best luxury hotel in Altstadt-Nord – Cologne Marriott Hotel

Cologne Marriott Hotel

Cologne Marriott Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Altstadt-Nord

Boasting a sauna and located a short walk from Cologne Cathedral, Cologne Marriott Hotel offers elegant accommodation.
Every contemporary room at Cologne Marriott Hotel includes tea and coffee making facilities, a refrigerator and a seating area.
Cologne Marriott is located in the heart of Cologne’s entertainment district with restaurants, cafés and nightlife on the doorstep.

 

Neighborhood #2 – Altstadt-Sued

(Where to stay in Cologne on a budget)

Altstadt-Sued

Altstadt-Sued is our pick for where to stay in Cologne on a budget

On the other side of the dividing line that is Cacilienstrasse lies Altstadt-Sued (South). Here you’ll find almost the same level of accessibility, at a price that’s easier on the wallet.

Rated highly for nightlife, food and sights to see, as well as in striking distance of the icons of its northern brother, this neighbourhood is one of our favourites for where to stay in Cologne.

Part of the old town runs into this part of the central ring, with ruins of the medieval walls still visible in areas. You’ll also find a bunch of stunning churches, with varying architecture, to give you more of a glimpse into Cologne’s past.

Altstadt-Sued has plenty of museums and galleries, to help you learn and immerse yourself in history and culture while travelling. Some of note include the Sports and Olympic Museum, the Chocolate Museum, and the Temporary Gallery, more permanent than its name suggests.

You can find a range of theatres and music venues in this neighbourhood too, to keep the evenings alive after a full day of wandering. They dot the region in unlikely places, so keep an eye out on your strolls and you may come across a hidden local delight!

The river makes up the eastern border of the Altstadt-Sued area, giving visitors the chance to soak up some rays by the water, or huddle over a hot chocolate and German pastry in a riverside cafe, depending on the season!

Things to do in Altstadt-Sued –

  • Hang out by the river in a cafe or bar (or outside one)
  • Visit one of the neighbourhood’s theatres
  • Satisfy your sweet-tooth in the gift shop of the Chocolate Museum
  • Spot the ancient city walls
  • Wander from church to church, comparing facades and histories

Where to Stay in Altstadt-Sued

Best Air BnB in Altstadt-Sued – Walle’s Air BnB

Walle’s Air BnB 

Walle’s Air BnB  is the best Air BnB in Altstadt-Sued

No list of the best Cologne Air BnB rentals is complete without the inclusion of Walle’s remarkable apartment. Not only does it have a free parking space nearby, but it also is known for its excellent location. 

Located in the south center of the city, the apartment is pretty close to a metro station (1 minute of walking), a supermarket, as well as a bunch of shops and restaurants. 

What’s more, the apartment is loaded with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. In the larger bedroom, for instance, you’ll find a television with a PS4 kit, a sleeping couch, and a huge double bed.

 

Best budget hotel in Altstadt-Sued – Bermuda Triangle B&B

Bermuda Triangle B&B

Bermuda Triangle B&B is the best budget hotel in Altstadt-Sued

This comfortable bed and breakfast with homely touches is a short stroll from 4711 and the Volkstheater Millowitsch.  
Bermuda Triangle B&B is located in the heart of Cologne’s entertainment district with restaurants, cafés and nightlife on the doorstep. The bed & breakfast is positioned within a short stroll of Rudolfplatz Underground Station.

 

Best mid-range hotel in Altstadt-Sued – Aparthotel Adagio Koln City

Aparthotel Adagio Koln City

The funky and fun Aparthotel Adagio is located close to the area’s tourist attractions. It offers modern apartments with an en suite bathroom and a kitchen. The crisp clean designs will have guests feeling like they are in great hands, especially as the staff are a particularly praised feature of this accommodation in online reviews.

 

Best luxury hotel in Altstadt-Sued – Romantik Hotel im Wasserturm

Romantik Hotel im Wasserturm

Boasting a rooftop terrace and a sauna, this is the ideal place to stay in the southern side of the circle.
Every cosy room at Romantik Hotel im Wasserturm comes with a mini bar (yes!)and slippers, while the bathrooms feature bathrobes and showers.
In the evening, guests are able to relax in the comfortable lounge bar or grab a bite in the on-site restaurant after a long day exploring.

 

Neighborhood #3 – Ehrenfeld

(Best area to stay in Cologne for nightlife)

Ehrenfeld

Ehrenfeld is our pick for best area to stay in Cologne for nightlife

This is the go-to place for all things after hours. Legendary for its nightlife, Ehrenfeld is home to the best dance clubs to get your fill of the famous German electronica. There are also a number of live music venues, for the indie or alternative fans.

Well-known as the artists’ quarter, and officially part of the city of Cologne since 1888, Ehrenfeld has theatres and art galleries, alongside warehouse clubs and dive bars. This proximity means you can cover the whole range of fun on offer, in short order.

To really get you clear-headed and clean-limbed for the evening ahead, shoot down to the Neptunbad to steam, soak and spa yourself silly. No need to bring your togs though, as bathing is done the old-fashioned way!

The neighbourhood is ideal for exploring on foot, and the streets are flat. You might still want to fortify yourself from any of the many excellent coffeehouses you’ll find on the way.

The residents of Ehrenfeld are proud of where they come from, identifying first and foremost with the neighbourhood, before the city, before the country. There is a strong sense of community here, and it’s an area trying to escape the gentrification, or pushing up of prices, that has been the fate of other nearby neighbourhoods.

They’re also noted for their inclusivity, as is all of Cologne, to be fair, and this is evident here in Ehrenfeld with the Cologne Central Mosque. This enormous glass and concrete building proclaims the city’s diversity and tolerance with pride.

Things to do in Ehrenfeld –

  • Soak away your troubles at Neptunbad
  • Check out the street art that rivals that in Berlin
  • Do your bit for the environment at Veedelskrämer, the zero-waste store
  • Play fluorescent 3D mini-golf at Glowing Rooms
  • Get your techno fix at E-Feld

Where to Stay in Ehrenfeld

Best Air BnB in Ehrenfeld – Industrial loft hosted by Markus

Industrial loft hosted by Markus 

Industrial loft hosted by Markus  is the best Air BnB in Ehrenfeld

Although it’s tucked away in a peaceful courtyard, this modern loft is within walking distance to Ehrenfeld’s chic restaurants, cafes, and bars. Moreover, it has exposed brick walls and high ceilings that add an industrial flair to its contemporary interiors. 

On top of it all, it’s large enough to fit in 6 guests.

 

Best budget hotel in Ehrenfield – Weltempfanger Hostel

Weltempfanger Hostel

Weltempfanger Hostel is the best budget hotel in Ehrenfield

A buffet breakfast or a coffee in the onsite cafe will set you up for the day, and night, ahead. These pristine rooms, privates available, have been commended for their comfortable beds and cleanliness of facilities.

Rent a bike from reception to zip around the area, and save your legs for the bar-hopping later on!

 

Best mid-range hotel in Ehrenfield – Ameron Hotel Regent

Ameron Hotel Regent

Ameron Hotel Regent is the best mid-range hotel in Ehrenfield

Guests can soak up the sun on the terrace or enjoy a beverage at the bar.
After settling into their room, guests can explore the local area with use of Aachener Strasse/Gurtel Underground Station, which is minutes from the hotel.
Ameron Hotel Regent’s in-house restaurant offers Italian-inspired meals – why not enjoy out on that terrace?

 

Best luxury hotel in Ehrenfeld –  Hotel Imperial Cologne

Hotel Imperial Cologne

Hotel Imperial Cologne is the best luxury hotel in Ehrenfeld

Rooms at Hotel Imperial Cologne are comfortable and feature a mini bar and cable/satellite channels.

Those staying at the hotel can enjoy a unique dining experience at the in-house restaurant, and each evening guests are welcome to relax in the comfortable lounge bar or outdoor terrace.
Hotel Imperial Cologne is close to shops, dining and Cologne’s nightlife.

 

Neighborhood #4 – Belgian Quarter

(Coolest place to stay in Cologne)

Belgian Quarter

Belgian Quarter is our pick for Coolest place to stay in Cologne

A neighbourhood where their churchyard turns into a beer garden in summer? Sign me up! The biergarten is a mainstay of German social life and the placement of this one in front of St. Michael’s Church is testament to the Belgian Quarter’s effortless cool. If you want to meet locals, this is the place to head when it’s warm, to join groups of 20 and 30 somethings mingling in the evenings.

Brusseler Platz, the square where this church stands, is also one of the central places for the parades of Karneval, housing the revelry and shenanigans that go with it!

The Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) gets its name from its own street names, referring to Belgian provinces or towns. Belgium itself isn’t too far from Cologne, so there are no doubt historic links there.

Knowing this to help you navigate, here is where you’ll find streets of boutiques and galleries, as well as trendy coffee shops and bars. For food, you’re in the Belgian Quarter, so surely a waffle is in order!

With this as your sustenance, you can go in search of the street art of the region. Street corners, lamp posts and garage doors have all acted as easels for the graffiti or urban artists of the city. See if you can spot the famous banana stencil in various spots, and ask a local what they’re all about!

Things to do in the Belgian Quarter –

  • Hunt for street art in all the nooks and crannies
  • Have a beer in Brusseler Platz, with the locals
  • Visit Grunsfeld bar for a foosball championship
  • Sample Belgian beers at Maria Eetcafe
  • Grab a coffee, wine and gelato, in no particular order, at Salon Schmitz

Where to Stay in Belgian Quarter

Best Air BnB in Belgian Quarter – Michael’s Air BnB

Michael’s Air BnB 

Michael’s Air BnB  is the best Air BnB in Belgian Quarter

When it comes to Air BnB rentals in the Belgian Quarter, nothing can top this modern flat hosted by Michael. With three bedrooms and 4 beds, this Air BnB rental can accommodate 7 guests, making it an ideal for families and groups. 

Even better, it has a host of cool conveniences, including flatscreen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, and many more. 

And, since it’s centrally located, it will give you easy access to the city’s top sights, exhibition center, and main station.

 

Best budget hotel in the Belgian Quarter – Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft

Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft

Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft is the best budget hotel in the Belgian Quarter

The coolest of places in the coolest of neighbourhoods, the individually themed rooms of the Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back or sideways in time!

Close to the cathedral, nightlife and a major underground station, the hostel is well-situated for exploration of the area.

 

Best mid-range hotel in the Belgian Quarter – Hotel Flandrischer Hof

Hotel Flandrischer Hof

Hotel Flandrischer Hof is the best mid-range hotel in the Belgian Quarter

This modern hotel features immaculate, comfortable rooms.
Flandrischer Hof Hotel boasts a range of lunch and dinner options with on-site restaurants, Brasserie Brvegel and LOCCA.
The area surrounding Flandrischer Hof Hotel Cologne is popular for its shopping. The hotel’s multilingual staff will ensure that every traveller has a hassle-free stay.

 

Best luxury hotel in the Belgian Quarter – Steigenberger Hotel Koln

Steigenberger Hotel Koln

Steigenberger Hotel Koln is the best luxury hotel in the Belgian Quarter

The sumptuous rooms of the Steigenberger Hotel offer views of the Cologne Cathedral and easy access to the hotspots of the area, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.  

Private bathrooms offer bathrobes to guest, while the in-house dining options have been raved about by guests in reviews.

 

Neighborhood #5 – Nippes

(Best neighborhood in Cologne for families)

Nippes

Nippes is our pick for best neighborhood in Cologne for families

Located just north of the centre city, Nippes to Alstadt is walking distance for the ambitious, or easily accessible by public transport for others.

The family-friendly neighbourhood of Nippes has, in recent years, become one of the most fashionable areas to live in the city. What this usually means is that the young professionals of the region are heading there as a place to start families, so it’s well set up for visitors with young’uns in tow.

The first thing you’ll want to do once you’ve dropped your luggage is head to one of the cake shops in the district. Where the British go in for tea and scones, the Germans are all about the coffee and cake. When in Cologne…

A laid back area with plenty of green spaces, multicultural Nippes is a safe neighbourhood with areas that kids can roam about in, burning off that cake energy, while parents can watch from the shade (or join in and burn off the coffee too)!

Nestled in a curve of the Rhine, Nippes has all that the riverside has to offer while heading in from the water, visitors can wander down streets lined with rows of late 19th century houses.

Nippes is home to the Cologne Zoo, which is always a hit with young and not-so-young alike. And then there’s Sculpture Park where you’ll all enjoy working out what, exactly, those big outdoor monuments are meant to be!

Things to do in Nippes –

  • Marvel at the elephants at Cologne Zoo
  • Climb and get curious at Sculpture Park
  • Stroll through the botanical gardens
  • See a concert in a church at Kulturkirche
  • Relax but the lake with the family in Blucher Park

Where to Stay in Nippes

Best Air BnB in Nippes – Dagmar’s Air BnB

Dagmar’s Air BnB 

Dagmar’s Air BnB  is the best Air BnB in Nippes

They don’t call this accommodation as one of the best Cologne Air Bnb rentals for nothing. Nestled in the city’s suburbs, this famous private house lures travelers with its contemporary decor, a remarkable setting, and essential amenities that will complete your stay. Perfect for couples and families, this private accommodation has 4 spacious rooms and can accommodate a few guests. (https://lapeerhealth.com/)

 

Best budget hotel in Nippes – Shiva CitySleep

Shiva CitySleep

Shiva CitySleep is the Best budget hotel in Nippes

This accommodation provides basic rooms with essential amenities. Their option of connecting rooms and cooking facilities makes this perfect for families travelling on a budget.

With the Koln-Nippes station nearby, this provides easy access to the centre city, or the option to explore this neighbourhood on foot.

 

Best mid-range hotel in Nippes – 1st Floor Koln

1st Floor Koln

1st Floor Koln is the best mid-range hotel in Nippes

This is an absolute hidden gem. For the price, the rooms are outstanding and the service exceptional. Guests have praised the many nice touches, like the included refreshments in the rooms. Classy and elegant, some rooms are even equipped with a spa pool! That’d be a sure-fire hit with the kids!

 

Best luxury hotel in Nippes – Hotel Viktoria Cologne

Hotel Viktoria Cologne

Hotel Viktoria Cologne is the Best luxury hotel in Nippes

Situated just south of the central Nippes area, this hotel provides classically decorated rooms with seating areas for the family to relax in.

For those wishing to dine out during their stay at Viktoria, there are a variety of eateries situated nearby. It is within walking distance of Koln Hansaring Station, which allows easy access in and around Cologne.

 

A final word…

Cologne is a surprise to many who think they know German towns. Laidback, friendly, and hip, it has a lot to offer those who care to spend a day or two in its diverse neighbourhoods. An ideal day might start with coffee and cake, go via an art gallery and a few boutiques for ‘essentials’, then a stop in the shade of the Cathedral. Your day may take you on a different path but wherever you’re heading, Cologne can provide.

Especially if you choose to stay in our best overall hotel, the divine Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom, which will set you up perfectly for all your activities and give you an enchanting place to lay your head.

Now you know what we know, go ahead and get planning, having chosen where to stay in Cologne from our list. For a city like this one, really, all the options are great!

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About the Author Nicola Smart

Gin lover. Coffee addict. Nicola has traveled the world for 7 years and is a staff writer for Hotel Jules. Born in London, Nicola first got the taste of travel studying abroad in Barcelona. Since then she's been hooked - traveling the world non-stop. Passionate about green travel and vegan lifestyle, Nicola spends more of her free time staring at maps wondering where she will head to next!

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