Hotels in Cologne

Exploring Cologne

Located in the heart of Europe, Cologne is Germany's media and communications capital, a busy transport hub, and host to various trade fairs. Its main attraction is the Gothic Cathedral, dating back to 1248, and visitors can climb the tower's 509 steps for a view over the city and its surroundings. There are many things to do in Cologne, with most of the sights just a short stroll from the cathedral, such as the city's Romanesque churches and its museums and art galleries. If time allows, hop on a boat and cruise the River Rhine.

The city's main events, the Cologne Trade Fairs and the Cologne Carnival, attract more than a million visitors each per year, therefore it's advisable to book accommodation in Cologne well in advance. Cologne Carnival, or the 'Fifth Season' as it is known to the locals, is a four-day festival of street parades, costumes, and boozy late nights. And it's also a great time to try Kölsch, the local beer.

Accommodations in Cologne

There is a range of options for all travelers. The most popular hotel in Cologne is the Appartement 181 Köln, which has been booked 5 times from our Hotels.com verified guests. Our guests also highly recommended Garten-Hotel Ponick in Cologne as it has been reserved 5 times.

Sightseeing in Cologne

Start your Cologne short break at the city’s landmark Gothic cathedral, Cologne's most famous landmark. One of Germany’s most famous architectural sights, the UNESCO-listed church rises for 157m in the city centre. Step inside to explore the treasury, a precious collection of medieval sculptures, grave finds and clergy insignia dating back as early as the ninth century. A few minutes’ walk from here is Cologne’s Old Town, where colourful, restored 14th-century houses line the narrow streets. The area is home to Cologne’s line-up of well-preserved Romanesque churches. One of the most beautiful is the 12th-century Church of St Martin on Martinspförtchen.

Transportation in Cologne

Visitors will be happy to know that most of Cologne's central attractions can be reached on foot. If you wish to venture further, then make use of the city's great transport system, the KVB, which combines the rail, regional rail and bus all into one integrated system.