Wondering where to stay in Cologne? This guide will break down different places in the city, helping you pinpoint the most suitable areas for your stay.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the best places to stay in Cologne, from wallet-friendly spots under 30 euros/night to boutique hotels near all the hotspots.
#1 TOP PICK
Altstadt (Old Town)
#2 PICK
Belgian Quarter
#3 PICK
Deutz
Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Cologne
Altstadt (Old Town) - Where To Stay In Cologne For First Timers
If it's your first time visiting Cologne, you won't find a more ideal location to stay than the Altstadt (Old Town).
Steeped in history and charm, the neighborhood is considered the heart of Cologne, capturing both past and present Cologne culture. It offers easy access to popular attractions like the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the Town Hall, the world’s oldest perfume factory, the Cologne Philharmonie and Cologne's oldest museum, the Wallraf-Richartz Museum.
In Altstadt, you'll find the Alter Markt, an old square with pastel-colored buildings and historic brewhouses, offering Rhineland cuisine and Kölsch beer. Stay here for easy access to prime shopping streets like Schildergasse and Hohe Straße. And if you can walk ten minutes, the Cologne Chocolate Museum and Hohenzollern Bridge are within reach.
Between late November to December, you'll also be extremely near the world-famous Cathedral Christmas Market and the Heinzels Wintermärchen Christmas Market.
Thanks to its central location, Altstadt has consistently been the top choice to stay in Cologne. Whether you enjoy wandering cobblestone streets or savoring a Kölsch beer at centuries-old breweries, it's the ideal neighborhood to explore Cologne.
Accommodation options range from cozy boutique hotels to luxurious establishments. My personal favorites are
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Cologne Old Town:
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – This is an elegant hotel is directly across from the Cologne Cathedral, beside the Central Station, and in close proximity to some of the city's finest restaurants and bars, like FRÜH am Dom (4 min walk) and Funkhaus (3 min walk). If you're looking for a prime location and first-class 5-star hotel right in the heart of Cologne, this is the perfect choice for your stay. I've stayed in their Classic Double, which is roomy and luxurious, and staffed with incredible people.
Cologne Marriott Hotel – This hotel is very close to Cologne Central Station (5 mins walk) and the Rhine River is a block away. It's close to all the action in the Old Town, but far enough away to afford peace and quiet at night. The rooms are soundproof for that good night's sleep. A Standard Room is spacious at 25 m² and you get an extra large double bed to boot.
Hilton Cologne – A nice 4-star hotel near the Cologne Central Station, a few blocks from the famous Cologne Cathedral and Alter Markt a stroll away (11 min walk). Twin rooms are quite large at 27 m² and extra beds for children under 17 are free.
Mid Range Accommodation in Cologne Old Town:
URBAN LOFT Cologne – I stumbled across URBAN LOFT Cologne while helping a friend. It's a new lifestyle hotel styled with soft pastel walls and co-working spaces. It's a 10-minute stroll to the cathedral and the shopping areas. You get a central location and spacious and modern rooms, at lower rates compared to the luxury hotels. And you'll have good access to trendy cafes and Cologne Central Station (connects to Cologne Bonn Airport and the Messe/conventions).
Classik Hotel Antonius – Ideal for budget travelers who want a centrally located hotel in the heart of Old Town. The 25m² Deluxe Double room has the spaciousness of luxury hotels, but at half the cost. My room even had a view of the Cologne Cathedral spires. All rooms come with a coffee maker, Wi-Fi's really strong, and we could stream Netflix and Prime on the TV.
Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery – Great for solo travelers wanting a practical option. This hotel cannot be more central, and I have personally stayed here and the location is almost unbeatable. It's opposite Museum Ludwig, Alter Markt, and the Great St. Martin Church and Cologne Cathedral are just a 3 minutes' walk away. The classic room we got was small but comfortable, and super clean and modern.
CityClass Hotel am Dom – This unquestionably is among my favorite hotels in Cologne. It's central and meets the needs of families – large and clean rooms, a 5 mins' walk from Central Station and you can add more beds for a small fee. Also, there's a police station just across the street, which makes us feel safe. They offer a big breakfast buffet that's convenient with picky children who like to eat different things. Definitely recommended for families or if you're traveling with children!
Budget Accommodation in Cologne Old Town:
Hotel Brandenburger Hof – This is a fantastic budget hotel, perfectly located opposite the central station, and 5 mins walk to the Cathedral and major attractions. You can choose between rooms with shared or ensuite bathrooms. Despite its compact size, it doesn't feel cramped. The rooms are clean and beds are surprisingly comfy too. Amenities include towels, slippers, a small TV, desk, full-length mirror, and a hairdryer.
Haus Enteresan – These apartments are right next to the Rhine River. Like you can literally look out the window and see the gorgeous river just steps away. It's very popular among budget travelers or groups who want a spacious room in the Old Town, as typical room size is 28m², to use as a base for exploring Cologne. Double or family rooms are available, and an extra bed for children under 6 years is free.
Having personally stayed in several of these accommodations across multiple trips to Cologne, I can vouch for their exceptional quality. Each of these hotels consistently achieves a remarkable score of over 8/10 on booking.com, making them the perfect choice for your stay in this charming city.
Belgian Quarter – Where To Stay In Cologne For Nightlife
In comparison to the rest of Cologne, the Belgian Quarter is relatively young neighborhood. In recent years, it's grown into a trendy district favored by the younger generation and creative types.
At its heart, Brussels Square is a hub of artsy boutiques, hip cafes, contemporary restaurants, and stylish bars that open until late. It's the unofficial spot where people come together to enjoy drinks and socialize after a long day.
The neighborhood stays lively into the night, with late-night shopping opportunities and a thriving nightlife scene at venues such as Sixpack, Little Link, and Subway.
And theatergoers have a real treat waiting for them. The neighborhood's proximity to the contemporary Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz and the intimate Theater in Bauturm means that compelling and thought-provoking performances are just a stone's throw away.
When staying in the Belgian Quarter, you'll have your pick of excellent accommodation that cater to a range of budgets. There are plenty of chic hotels as well as apartment rentals for those who prefer more privacy during their stay.
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Belgian Quarter
Steigenberger Hotel Köln – I have to rave about the hotel's amazing buffet breakfast, big rooms and fantastic location. It's 2 mins' walk to the subway and there's a supermarket and even a pharmacy nearby. When it comes to outstanding restaurants and bars within a stone's throw, you'll be spoilt for choice. There's also a nice 24hr self-service shop offering foods and drinks no matter how late or early it gets. Rooms are between 23 - 40m², giving you plenty of space.
Mid Range Accommodation in Belgian Quarter
Lasthaus am Ring – Hotel Lasthaus offers cozy country-house style rooms, with double-glazed windows that ensure your night is quiet. Their common rooms are elegantly decorated and stocked with games and music, perfect for relaxing during downtime. It's right next to a well-stocked supermarket and a cinema, plus the U-Bahn is at your doorstep so you can whisk off to sightseeing within a handful of stops. The area is filled with lively bars and restaurants, and linked to longest shopping street, the main square and the river.
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NEU Innenstadt Altstadt Apartment in Top Lage von Köln
Appartment mit großem Balkon im belgischen Viertel
Budget accommodation in Belgian Quarter
a&o Köln Neumarkt – This hostel is ideal for short stays on a budget. It offers clean single and twin rooms, a hearty breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 reception. Takumi, arguably the best ramen place in Cologne, is just next door. It's also 10 mins from the Neumarkt Galerie mall, and close to the Zülpicher Platz stop, which I think is a convenient starting point to explore Cologne from.
Trip Inn Hotel Conti – This is a great family-run hotel that puts you in the center of the action. Ideal for a quick change and a good sleep after a long night. Everywhere you turn there's a cool cafe or funky bar. Hungry? Plenty of restaurants from vegan to Vietnamese waiting for you. It’s also near Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz, which is a great 1900s theatre to enjoy artsy plays.
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Friesenplatz – Best Place To Stay In Cologne On A Budget
If you're seeking a carefree evening in a lively Cologne atmosphere without breaking the bank, Friesenplatz is hands down the best place to stay on a budget.
Once a red-light district, Friesenstrasse has transformed into a party street, closed to cars on weekends, and attracting stag and hen party groups to their trendy bars and restaurants.
It's the prime nightlife spot while remaining in close proximity to the main tourist attractions like the Old Town.
I also like that things are still very lively during the day; you can enjoy a relaxed coffee at hommage cafe, lunch at Enchilada Köln, or a Kölsch at the famous Päffgen brewery.
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Friesenplatz
Ruby Ella Hotel Cologne – Ruby Ella is a gorgeous boutique hotel and bar close to Friesenstrasse station – making it well-connected to most attractions. It’s also steps away from Nachtflug and Diamonds Club (two great clubs to go to) and right down the street from Päffgen Brewery, which in my opinion serves the best Kölsch and Cologne dishes in town. You can also easily walk to Belgian Quarter and Rudolfplatz, which hosts seasonal markets throughout the year, including the Nikolaus Dorf Christmas market.
25hours Hotel The Circle – For party-goers, this retro futuristic hotel is beside a cluster of big clubs like Diamonds, Asmara, Nachtflug and Flamingo Royal. On the 8th floor is the amazing Monkey Bar, where you can get a nice view of Cologne Cathedral while sipping on creative cocktails. Bedrooms are quirkily decorated like an "imaginative utopia". If you want to get to the city center, it's only a convenient 10 min walk away.
Mid Range Accommodation in Friesenplatz
Mercure Hotel Köln City Friesenstraße – This mid-range hotel blends comfort with affordability, right in the middle of Friesenstrasse. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars when you step out the hotel. The rooms are equipped with everything you need; TV, air-con, soundproofing, blackout curtains, a nice bathroom, etc. The best part – they clean the rooms everyday. The train station is just a 3 min walk away, but you can walk to most tourist attractions within 10 mins.
THE QVEST hideaway – This photo-worthy hotel is set in a stunning 19th-century building in a neo-gothic style. It's like an art gallery and hotel rolled into one! What's great is that it's tucked away in a quiet position so you don't get disturbed at night, but still conveniently placed for enjoying the Friesenstrasse nightlife. It's a 10 min walk from the train station, so it's close enough to enjoy the Old Town too.
Budget Accommodation in Friesenplatz
Hotel im Kupferkessel – The single room with a shared bathroom is an absolute steal, although they do have rooms with an ensuite bathroom. It's more like a well-furnished, stylish apartment in an amazing location that's still very wallet friendly. You can absolutely walk to the Cologne Cathedral and the train station (10 mins), countless restaurants and bars nearby. Everything is contactless, so you can check in at your own pace.
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Deutz – Kid-friendly Place To Stay In Cologne With Family
Known as the "wrong side of the Rhine", Deutz is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Cologne, especially if you're traveling with your family. This chill neighborhood is across the Rhine river from Cologne's Old Town.
It has a quiet atmosphere and family-friendly hotels, so it is a good place to stay with kids. You'll be far from the nightlife, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful night with your children, but close enough to explore the Old Town.
Deutz also boasts proximity to some of Cologne's top attractions, such as the Chocolate Museum, KölnTriangle, Odysseum Museum, and the Rheinboulevard. The Old Town is found just across the Deutzer Bridge too.
Families will enjoy the many green spaces, like Spielplatz im Rheinpark, and plenty of children's activities in this area.
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Deutz
Hyatt Regency Köln – One of the best Cologne hotels for families and groups who want to stay in absolute comfort. The hotel’s spacious 36m² Twin Rooms feature two large double beds and they also offer airport shuttle, an indoor swimming pool and three restaurants for a fun & comfortable stay. The location is amazing; next to the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, Rheinboulevard and the KölnTriangle. Plus you can walk to the city center in under 15 minutes.
Hotel Stadtpalais – As a big family, we love the multiple beds in the Family Room; there's an extra large double bed, a sofa bed and you can request for an extra cot or bed if needed. We thought it would be far from the city center, but the train station is actually really nearby (2 min walk), which makes the major attractions within reach. The Lanxess Arena and the Pyramiden Park are just next door too.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Deutz
Radisson Blu Hotel Köln – Children will love this hotel on the banks of the Rhine, especially the spacious rooms with a bathtub and big flat screen TVs that you can connect to your phone - for movie nights with the family. There's easy access to downtown with the Kölnmesse train stop only 100 meters away.
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Mid Range Accommodation in Deutz
Ibis budget Koeln Messe – This budget, no frills hotel is located within 5 mins walk of Messe/Deutz Train Station. There isn't a restaurant on the premises, but there's a mini market and breakfast buffet served every morning. Their Double rooms are a cozy size at 14m², and really wallet friendly rates compared to other accommodations in the area.
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Ehrenfeld – Best Place To Stay In Cologne For Street Art & Indie Neighborhood
The coolest place in Cologne is undoubtably Ehrenfeld. It's considered one of the trendiest districts in Germany, with an impressive street art scene, unique cafes, and cool fashion boutiques. Körnerstraße in particular is known for quirky shops selling vintage clothing and one-of-a-kind items.
The district has transformed over the years into a multicultural hub, attracting people who want to experience a different side to Cologne than the traditional tourist neighborhoods.
The Heliosturm lighthouse on Heliosstrasse, built in 1885, stands as Ehrenfeld's iconic landmark. Walk a little from the lighthouse, and you'll find former factories have transformed into clubs; the most popular being Sonic Ballroom and Club Bahnhof.
If you're into urban art, you should check out the street art in Ehrenfeld. When you walk around the neighborhood, you'll see all kinds of art - some are bold and abstract, while others are detailed and intricate. The street art shows off the eclectic nature of Ehrenfeld, covering everything from social issues to cultural expression.
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Ehrenfeld
Black Hotels Köln – Dark, sleek and chic, this hotel is for those who want a comfortable stay close to the action. It's within walking distance to the train station, the Helios lighthouse and Club Bahnhof, and along the way you can admire the street art. The standard loft stands at a spacious 30m², and has everything you need including a fridge and your own desk.
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Mid Range Accommodation in Ehrenfeld
Hotel Imperial – 4 star hotel that's super close to the tram stop (Piusstr.) like within 5 mins' walk and you can train down to city center. For activities, it's within 15 mins' walk to most places; including Stadtgarten, an awesome beer garden, and the heart of Ehrenfeld.
Budget Accommodation in Ehrenfeld
Weltempfänger Hostel – With room rates starting from 27 euros, Piusstraße station just 50 metres away, and 1 euro beers, this bohemian hostel is a dream for budget travelers. Simply walk down the street and you'll find plenty of cool cafes, restaurants and bars of all sorts. The tram being so close makes it easy to get to the city center too.
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Cologne Central Station – Top Place To Stay For One Night
Cologne Central station is the ideal place to stay if you're visiting Cologne for just one night.
Placed right at the heart of the city, you're practically steps away from the must-see attractions Cologne has to offer, like the Cologne Cathedral, Museum Ludwig, the Hohenzollern Bridge, the Old Market, and so on.
In addition to its central location, this area has plenty of great restaurants and bars serving up Cologne's delicious local food and yes, Kölsch beer. You can't go wrong with FRÜH am Dom, Peters Brauhaus or Sion – all within a 5 min walk!
It's also super convenient because you can reach Cologne Central Station (the "city center") from the airport in under 15 minutes, by taking either an S-Bahn train or a Regional Express train (costs just a few euros).
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Cologne Central Station
Savoy Hotel – Located just a 3-minute stroll from Cologne Central Station, this luxurious hotel is near to major attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, all within a 9-minute walking radius. Ideal for a romantic trip, we opted for their elegantly decorated Double room. But you can always upgrade to a lush Suite featuring a jacuzzi. Cap off your day by unwinding at the in-house SAVOY spa, adding a perfect touch to your stay.
Mid Range Accommodation in Cologne Central Station
Hotel Casa Colonia – Comfortable, good-size rooms and bathrooms for families or groups looking for value. They provide an amazing breakfast for a worry-free start to your day. Situated just an 8-min walk from Cologne Central Station, the hotel is close to attractions in the Old Town, including cafes and restaurants. The elevator was especially useful for small children, and you can easily get an extra cot if needed.
Ibis Hotel Köln Am Dom – An Ibis is an Ibis! Directly next to Cologne Cathedral and Central Station, it has really basic but comfortable rooms, at great prices. Although it's so close to the station, rooms are surprisingly quiet. Obviously, it's a convenient base for sightseeing in the city center too.
Budget Accommodation in Cologne Central Station
Station – Just 150 meters from Cologne Central Station, the hostel has clean, fuss-free rooms with free Wi-Fi. A 4-minute walk to the Cologne Cathedral, which makes it prime location at a budget cost. Room options start from 27 euros, and include private or shared bathrooms. Reception closes at midnight, with clear late check-in instructions sent via email.
Altstadt (Old Town) – Closest To Christmas Markets
If you're planning on visiting Cologne during the holiday season, staying in the Old Town is a must.
You'll be a stone's throw away from Cologne's, if not Europe's, largest and most famous Christmas markets; the Cathedral Christmas Market and Heinzels Wintermärchen. It's a family tradition of ours to visit both every Christmas season if we can!
In addition to being close to the Christmas markets, the Old Town is a treasure trove, home to some of Cologne's most iconic landmarks—including the Cologne Cathedral and Great St Martin church.
Our favorite pubs, restaurants and cafes are also in the Old Town, such as Gaffel am Dom, Funkhaus and Malzmühle.
Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Cologne Old Town:
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – This is an elegant hotel is directly across from the Cologne Cathedral, beside the Central Station, and in close proximity to some of the city's finest restaurants and bars, like FRÜH am Dom (4 min walk) and Funkhaus (3 min walk). If you're looking for a prime location and first-class 5-star hotel right in the heart of Cologne, this is the perfect choice for your stay. I've stayed in their Classic Double, which is roomy and luxurious, and staffed with incredible people.
Cologne Marriott Hotel – This hotel is very close to Cologne Central Station (5 mins walk) and the Rhine River is a block away. It's close to all the action in the Old Town, but far enough away to afford peace and quiet at night. The rooms are soundproof for that good night's sleep. A Standard Room is spacious at 25 m² and you get an extra large double bed to boot.
Hilton Cologne – A nice 4-star hotel near the Cologne Central Station, a few blocks from the famous Cologne Cathedral and Alter Markt a stroll away (11 min walk). Twin rooms are quite large at 27 m² and extra beds for children under 17 are free.
Mid Range Accommodation in Cologne Old Town
URBAN LOFT Cologne – I stumbled across URBAN LOFT Cologne while helping a friend. It's a new lifestyle hotel styled with soft pastel walls and co-working spaces. It's a 10-minute stroll to the cathedral and the shopping areas. You get a central location and spacious and modern rooms, at lower rates compared to the luxury hotels. And you'll have good access to trendy cafes and Cologne Central Station (connects to Cologne Bonn Airport and the Messe/conventions).
Classik Hotel Antonius – Ideal for budget travelers who want a centrally located hotel in the heart of Old Town. The 25m² Deluxe Double room has the spaciousness of luxury hotels, but at half the cost. My room even had a view of the Cologne Cathedral spires. All rooms come with a coffee maker, Wi-Fi's really strong, and we could stream Netflix and Prime on the TV.
Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery – Great for solo travelers wanting a practical option. This hotel cannot be more central, and I have personally stayed here and the location is almost unbeatable. It's opposite Museum Ludwig, Alter Markt, and the Great St. Martin Church and Cologne Cathedral are just a 3 minutes' walk away. The classic room we got was small but comfortable, and super clean and modern.
CityClass Hotel am Dom – This unquestionably is among my favorite hotels in Cologne. It's central and meets the needs of families – large and clean rooms, a 5 mins' walk from Central Station and you can add more beds for a small fee. Also, there's a police station just across the street, which makes us feel safe. They offer a big breakfast buffet that's convenient with picky children who like to eat different things. Definitely recommended for families or if you're traveling with children!
Budget Accommodation in Cologne Old Town