Yulia Saf 
As one of Germany’s oldest cities, Cologne holds many secrets, and today, I’ll try to uncover some of them in this guide on where to stay in Cologne!
I recently visited Cologne and absolutely loved the city and its neighborhoods, each with a different vibe! Read this post, and you’ll find out which are the 5 best areas to stay in for tourists and which are the most amazing hotels, in each of those neighborhoods, for all budgets!
I compared Cologne’s neighborhoods on their attractions, distance from the Cathedral and Old Town, atmosphere, transport links, and the kind of traveler they suit, then handpicked the best-rated hotels in each, so don’t worry! You’ll find only top-rated options for luxury, mid-range, and budget, arranged by price.
Altstadt-Nord (the Old Town) is the best area to stay in Cologne for first-timers, beside the Cathedral and top sights. Choose the Belgian Quarter for nightlife, Deutz for families, Altstadt-Süd on a budget, and Ehrenfeld for a local feel.
And since we’re on the topic of hotels, I recommend booking your favorite accommodation in advance to secure your spot and get the best prices. Cologne is a major holiday destination, and it gets many tourists all year long!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a list of the hotels located in the Old Town to help you decide quickly where to stay in Cologne:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Altstadt-Nord – where to stay for the first time
- 2. Belgian Quarter – where to stay in Cologne for nightlife
- 3. Altstadt-Süd – best place to stay in Cologne on a budget
- 4. Deutz – best area to stay with your family
- 5. Ehrenfeld – best place for a local experience
- BONUS: Best hotels near Cologne Central Station
- FAQs about where to stay in Cologne
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas that I will be talking about in this post:
- Altstadt-Nord: for first-timers
- Belgian Quarter: for nightlife
- Altstadt Süd: for budget
- Deutz: for families
- Ehrenfeld: for local experience
| Area | Best for | Vibe | Top hotel pick (Booking score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altstadt-Nord (Old Town) | First-timers, sights | Historic, beside the Cathedral | Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom (8.9) |
| Belgian Quarter | Nightlife, shopping | Trendy, bohemian, street art | Ruby Ella Hotel (8.5) |
| Altstadt-Süd | Budget | Laid-back, riverside, local | Maison Marsil (8.8) |
| Deutz | Families | Quiet, across the Rhine | Hyatt Regency Köln (8.7) |
| Ehrenfeld | Local experience | Arty, authentic, residential | Hotel Imperial (8.3) |
1. Altstadt-Nord – where to stay for the first time
You’ll want to explore this area all day long, that’s how pretty it is! And it’s also the best place to stay in Cologne for the first time.
Its Gothic buildings, historic houses, and overall vibe will make you fall in love with Altstadt-Nord (that’s German for the Old Town).
Set on the banks of the Rhine River, which runs through Cologne and divides the city into two halves connected by 4 bridges, the Old Town is packed with iconic attractions.
Probably the most famous one is the majestic Cologne Cathedral (apparently it took 600 years to build, but it was surely worth it)! And also the fun Wallraf-Richartz Museum, the Great St. Martin Church, and Museum Ludwig.
Did you know that Eau de Cologne originated in Cologne in 1709 when Johann Maria Farina named the fragrance in honor of the city? You can visit the Duftmuseum im Farina Haus Fragrance Museum and see where it all started!
But don’t spend all your time indoors! Take some time to explore the narrow cobbled streets, which are filled with 14th-century colored houses! And also check out the famous Hohenzollern Bridge, which has lots of padlocks! It’s a pedestrian bridge so you can walk on it and admire the views, but the train also crosses it.
As you explore around, you’ll find trendy, friendly cafes and bars at every corner, which you should definitely check out. Papa Joe’s Biersalon (map) is definitely a great place to start the night! This old pub serves Rhineland food, and it’s the perfect place to rest and try the local Kölsch beer! It’s a must-do thing to do when visiting Cologne!
f you’re a beer fan, time your visit for Cologne’s Karneval (the city’s huge street carnival, which peaks in February or early March), and spend your evenings in the traditional Kölsch beer halls, where they pour the crisp local Kölsch in those skinny little glasses all year round!
But there’s another market you should check out: Heinzels Wintermärchen (map), which hosts Cologne’s annual Christmas Fair and boasts a seasonal ice skating rink (usually only while the fair is on).
For those arriving by train or who are planning to take some day trips, the Central Cologne Train Station or The Hauptbahnhof (HBF) is located in the Old Town, so it’d be super convenient should you decide to book your hotel here!
Views of the Cathedral from the comfort of your luxurious five-star hotel? Yes, please! This family-run accommodation has such elegant decor! Boasting modern rooms, a spa, and a great location just a minute walk away from the train station, this has to be one of the best places to stay in Cologne!
Other accommodation options in Altstadt-Nord
Such a cool hotel with a quirky design, spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar
Enjoy your holiday in the Old Town in this friendly hostel that has uniquely designed rooms and offers breakfast
A modern room in a friendly apartment that has a kitchen, free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, and a balcony
Things to do in Altstadt-Nord
- Admire the Cologne Cathedral in the heart of the city
- Visit the Museum Ludwig and the Kolumba Museum
- See the Romanesque Great St. Martin Church (map)
- Try some perfumes at Duftmuseum im Farina Haus Fragrance Museum
- Catch an exhibition at the Roman-Germanic Museum
- Enjoy the Christmas Markets, specifically the Cathedral Christmas Market
- Drink the local beverage – Kölsch beer
- Attend the Cologne Karneval (in February)
2. Belgian Quarter – where to stay in Cologne for nightlife
Set in Neustadt Nord, a 25-minute walk from the Old Town, the Belgian Quarter (or Belgisches Viertel in German) is a super trendy and stylish neighborhood with lots of bars, restaurants, and some great hotels!
It’s not only the fun nightlife that attracts tourists, though. The area’s bohemian atmosphere and its amazing street art will make you fall in love with this place. Most of its street art is located between Aachenerstraße (map) and Venloer Straße (map).
If you’re lucky and you’re visiting Cologne during the summer, you might even catch a live concert somewhere in this area.
There are tons of galleries, entertainment venues, and friendly cafes. If you’re looking for some place to start the night, Little Link (map) and Sixpack (map) are fab places to grab a cocktail.
Then you can head to Brussels Square, a great central spot in the heart of the Belgian Quarter, where people usually gather for a drink and to plan their evenings!
If you’re wondering about the name, it is called the Belgian Quarter as many streets in the neighborhood are named after Belgian provinces and cities, such as Brussels Street (map).
You’ll find tons of boutique stores here, so start shopping for some cool vintage pieces that will remind you of your stay in Cologne, in the Belgian Quarter.
As for the hotels, they’re a bit cheaper than those in the Old Town! Especially those in Friesenplatz!
You’re going to love the stylish and bright rooms of this hotel! Most have large windows overlooking the city and a comfortable bed. The accommodation also offers a delicious breakfast, private parking and a bar.
Other accommodation options in the Belgian Quarter
A cozy little design hotel tucked in a quiet Old Town alley near the Christmas markets, with stylish rooms and a buffet breakfast
One of the best places to stay for all budget travelers, which has comfortable rooms and a bar
A great place that has rooms for 2 people and which comes with a kitchen, a backyard, and a flat-screen TV
Things to do in the Belgian Quarter
- Spend a fun night at the Giga-Center Köln (map)
- Meet your friends in Brussels Square to plan your night of partying
- See the medieval Hahnen Gate (Hahnentor)
- Catch an art exhibition at the Temporary Gallery
- Enjoy Cologne’s nightlife at the Little Link
- Go shopping for vintage treasures
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Altstadt-Süd – best place to stay in Cologne on a budget
Located south of the Old Town, this neighborhood is perfect for anyone who is looking for affordable accommodation, but in a great location – there are many affordable hotels and hostels.
Altstadt-Süd has borrowed a bit of charm from its more famous brother, Altstadt-Nord. You’ll find one or two museums here, but the one that’s not to be missed is the Lindt Chocolate Museum. If you love chocolate as much as I do, then you have to go there and taste all those amazing flavors!
Then there are other attractions to check out, like Ulrepforte, a 13th-century watchtower, the Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum, and the beautiful Basilica of St. Severin, which has features dating to the 10th century.
If you’re not too full of chocolate after your visit and want to explore other sides of the neighborhood, then the Rheinhaufen quarter is definitely worth a visit! What was once an old commercial port has now become a famous tourist spot because of the Kranhaus buildings, which feature a really cool design and are built in the shape of a crane over the Rhine River.
At sunset, head to the Riverside Promenade and enjoy a nice walk and the stunning views!
Such a great boutique hotel in Cologne with amazing rooms and furnished balconies where you can enjoy a cup of coffee before heading out! The accommodation also comes with a great location, parking, and a bar.
Other accommodation options in Altstadt Süd
Set in a former chapel, this boutique hotel has rooms with oak floors, walnut furniture, and a terrace
An affordable hotel that comes with spacious rooms with courtyard views, a terrace, and a restaurant
One of the best Airbnb’s with a gorgeous balcony, a small kitchen, and a beautiful courtyard
Things to do in Altstadt Süd
- Indulge in all the goods at the Chocolate Museum
- Catch a sunset at the Rheinauhafen marina
- Visit the Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum
- Grab a bite at Rheinau (map)
- Attend the Cologne Pride Parade, one of the largest in Europe
- Check out the St. Maria im Kapitol Church
- Wander the streets and find the best restaurants to eat at
- Take a picture of the modern Kranhaus buildings standing over the Rhine River (map)
4. Deutz – best area to stay with your family
Located across the Rhine River, just a 20 min walk east of Cologne’s Old Town, this neighborhood has a tranquil atmosphere and some great hotels!
I’d definitely recommend it for families looking for a nice place to stay in Cologne that’s not too crowded yet still close to the Old Town!
Deutz is home to Lanxess Arena, a famous venue and the largest ice hockey arena outside North America! They also hold concerts here, so if you’re lucky, maybe you can catch one during your holiday in Cologne.
Here you’ll also find Koelnmesse, which hosts many conferences and events! If you’re attending one, it would be beneficial to stay at a hotel here, just a short walk away.
There are a few parks here where you can enjoy a break from the city noise, and the kids can play all day long! Pyramiden Park (map) is a great one. You can even make a whole day out of it and organize a cute picnic with some delicious German food from the supermarket!
The area is pretty big, and it offers some amazing views of the Rhine River! Although you won’t find as many attractions here, there are some I think you and the kids will love, like the Odysseum, a high-tech interactive museum with a cinema and live shows!
The accommodation options are also pretty diverse – you have everything from small boutique hotels to large business hotels here:
The elegant, family-friendly rooms at this luxury hotel and the amazing view of the historic Cathedral will make you want to spend some lazy mornings here! Take advantage of the swimming pool and eat a delicious meal at the restaurant before heading out to explore the Deutz district in Cologne, Germany.
Other accommodation options in Deutz
Feel like you’re at home in this boutique hotel located on the banks of the Rhine, which has family rooms
Enjoy your coffee on the terrace of this hotel, which has rooms with large windows and a garden
A simple yet well-equipped apartment with waterfront views, a kitchen, and a flat-screen TV
Things to do in Deutz
- Take the kids to the Odysseum Museum
- Spend a relaxing afternoon at Claudius Therme
- Enjoy a picnic at Rheinpark (map)
- Go on the family-friendly Kleinbahn Koeln train
- Visit the Deutz Abbey
- Check out the Lanxess Arena
- Check out the Cologne Zoo and the Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln (Botanical Garden) (map)
5. Ehrenfeld – best place for a local experience
Located outside of the main city center, around 6 km (4 miles) away from the Old Town, Ehrenfeld has become a competitor over the years for the Belgian Quarter!
However, since it’s not so close to the heart of the city, this area is a bit more chill. But don’t worry, you have great underground connections to the other central parts of the city in case you want to visit all the attractions.
This cool district has the same trendy vibes as the Belgian Quarter. However, it has kept its authentic German aspect.
There aren’t as many historic landmarks or museums (except the really cool The Mystery of Banksy Museum) here, but you won’t get bored on the lively streets of Ehrenfeld! They are filled with art, and they even attract international creators!
If you’re in the mood to do some shopping, then head to the small boutique shops and explore around. Polyestershock (map) and Kitsch Deluxe (map) are some really cool spots to check out if you like vintage clothes!
I love getting to a new place and finding small coffee shops that no one has heard of. I usually don’t even look anywhere; I just head to the area and discover all the unique places. I suggest you do the same if visiting Ehrenfeld.
Set near a park, this 4-star hotel has a super elegant design! Start your day with room service in bed, or head out to the garden for fresh air as well! The accommodation comes with a bar and private parking.
Other accommodation options in Ehrenfeld
Unwind in the fab tub of your room while staying in this hotel that offers room service and a bar
An affordable hotel that has a lovely terrace, a restaurant, and rooms with large windows
This comfy studio has room for 2 people, a kitchen, and a lounge area where you can watch TV
Things to do in Ehrenfeld
- Take pictures of the unique street art (map)
- Visit Cologne’s Central Mosque (map)
- Grab a coffee at Café Rotkehlchen (map)
- Go shopping in the boutique stores
- Check out Cologne’s Red Light area near Ehrenfeld
- Spend a fun day at the Great Escape (map)
- Take a day trip to Bergisch Gladbach near Cologne
| 👑 Luxury price: | €200 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €130 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €90 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old Town |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom |
| 🧳 Mid-range hotel: | 25hours Hotel The Circle |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Die Wohngemeinschaft |
BONUS: Best hotels near Cologne Central Station
Whether you’re stopping in Cologne just for a brief time during your European travels (here’s an itinerary idea if you’re planning to do that) or maybe you’re settling in this city for a while and taking day trips, it might be more convenient to stay right near the train station!
Cologne is pretty close to many cool cities, like Düsseldorf and Bonn (only a 25-minute train ride away)!
That’s why I decided to make this bonus with some of the best hotels near Cologne Central Station! All of them are just a short walk away from the station:
- Luxury: Hotel Ludwig Superior – Located a 5-minute walk from the station, this hotel features a restaurant and a terrace.
- Mid-range: Cologne Marriott Hotel – Enjoy your morning coffee on the outdoor terrace of this hotel, which is located a 5-minute walk away from the station.
- Budget: Hotel Domspitzen – a cozy place offering free daily breakfast and rooms with a flat-screen TV.
i Getting around Cologne
The S19 S-Bahn runs direct from Cologne Bonn Airport to the Hauptbahnhof in the Old Town in about 15 minutes, and Cologne's trams and U-Bahn cover everywhere else, so you won't need a car for a city stay. Most of the central areas are walkable too!
FAQs about where to stay in Cologne
❓ Is Cologne safe at night?
Yes, the city is usually safe at night; however, there are some areas to avoid due to higher crime rates, such as Ostheim, Ossendorf, and Chorweiler.
📅 How many days do you need in Cologne?
You should spend between 3 and 5 days in Cologne. That way, you can explore the Old Town and visit some other areas and attractions!
💸 Is Cologne an expensive city?
Compared to other cities in Germany, Cologne is affordable for most travelers. You can find a few good deals on hotels and hostels, and cheap restaurants.
🎅🏽 Where to stay in Cologne for Christmas Markets?
The Old Town is the best place to stay in Cologne if you’re attending the Christmas Market, as the fair is held here in Heinzels Wintermärchen Square.
🥳 Where is the best place to stay in Cologne for nightlife?
The Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) is the best area in Cologne for nightlife, packed with bars, cocktail bars, and live music around Brüsseler Platz. A great base is the Ruby Ella Hotel, and budget travelers can book the social Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft.
🏨 What is the best hotel in Cologne?
Definitely a top choice for anyone who is traveling to Cologne, Germany, is the Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – a luxury hotel located in the Old City.
🚶♀️How walkable is Cologne?
Cologne is super walkable! You can get pretty much everywhere on foot, but they also have a great public transport system if you want to take the bus.
🤔 How can I get around Cologne?
By walking, or using the tram, bus, or subway.
🕯️ Where is the best area to stay to see the Cologne Cathedral?
If you want to see the Cathedral, I recommend staying in the Old Town. Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is a great hotel located there that offers views of the attraction!
✈️ How do you get from Cologne Bonn Airport to the city center?
The easiest way is the S19 S-Bahn, which runs directly from Cologne Bonn Airport to the Hauptbahnhof in the Old Town in about 15 minutes for around €3.80. Prefer a door-to-door ride? A pre-booked airport transfer or taxi takes a similar 15 to 25 minutes.
📅 When is the best time to visit Cologne?
May to September is the most pleasant time to visit Cologne, with mild weather and lively outdoor terraces. December brings magical Christmas markets around the Cathedral, and late February or early March is Karneval, when the whole city fills with costumes and street parties!
Conclusion
What a charming city! I’m sure you’ll feel the same after exploring it and visiting its iconic attractions!
I hope this guide helped you decide where to stay in Cologne, and if you’re still not sure which hotel to pick, then check out my top 2 favorite options, both set in the Old Town:
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – a luxury hotel with views of Cologne Cathedral
- 25hours Hotel The Circle – this hotel has a quirky design and a restaurant
I’d recommend booking your hotels in Cologne, Germany, in advance! This city is super popular, and it’s better to secure your spot early!
Have fun enjoying the sights of the Cologne Cathedral and drinking lots of beer!
Leave me a comment if you have any questions about hotels in Cologne or suggestions for our readers!
Auf Wiedersehen,
Yulia
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