Where to Stay

In Cologne, it's easy: you're either outside the Ring, on the Ring, inside the Ring, or across the river. The neighborhoods of Cologne and its metro area are each distinct, with their own flare and charm.

Outside the Ring

The neighborhoods outside the ring are still in the action! The most lively quarter, the University Quarter (Univiertel), is filled with student-friendly pubs, bars, and clubs, but you can also find some lovely accommodation, particularly at the Hotel Mado, a calm and friendly oasis with a particular funky charm. In nearby Junkersdorf, you'll find cheap and comfy accommodation at the Dorint Budget Hotel, or a slightly more upscale option at the lovely Brennerschen Hof. In stylish Agnesviertel (in the North), try the restored masterpiece Hotel Viktoria or, for a more modern hotel with a great view, the Hotel Hopper St.Antonius. The Cristall-Hotel is also a stylish option.

On the Ring

Moving closer in to the center of town, you will be delighted by North Cologne's Classic Hotel Harmonie. Also in the North, strongly consider Antik Hotel Bristol, one of the finest antique hotels in Germany. A favorite, the Chelsea Hotel, is located in the Belgische Viertel (Belgian Quarter), and sits on top of a lovely cafe with windows everywhere you look. Just south of the Belgische Viertel's Rudolfplatz is the Esplanade, a great choice for active people.

Inside the Ring

Friesenviertel's Dorint Hotel is a great option for those who want to check out an old residential and business neighborhood that is a healthy walk or short metro ride away from the history of the Altstadt (Old Quarter). Also inside the ring, near Friesenviertel is the Hotel im Wasserturm, which combines 19th-century structures with an unbeatable rooftop view. To the north of Altstadt-Nord, you'll find the upscale, always reliable Four Points by Sheraton Central Köln. Also to the north of the Altstadt-Nord, sits Hostel Station, the budget-friendly but surprisingly charming hostel that offers a great breakfast for cheap.

If you are looking to get deep into the Altstadt (Old Quarter), where you will find Cologne's top attraction, the world-famous Kölner Dom, there are many lodging options, including the glass-roofed Maritim Hotel, the privately-run Kleinen Stapelhäuschen, the great deal Hotel Esser, the historical Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen, the completely non-smoking Hotel an der Philharmonie (which also offers wonderful views of the city), and the comfy and budget-friendly Good Sleep.

Across the River

On the up-and-coming Right Bank of the Rhine River, you will find the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Left Bank coupled with the charm of residential neighborhoods. The biggest neighborhood in the Right Bank is Deutz, where there are some lovely spots like the high-class Hyatt-Regency and the laid-back but top-quality Insel Hotel.