A mix of cultures is prevalent in this diverse city. The French and British took turns occupying this German city. This town was almost entirely destroyed during World War II, but extensive efforts were in place after the war to restore this historic town.
Cologne brings in visitors from all over the world to visit impressive Cologne Cathedral — the county's most visited site, and see the University of Cologne, one of the largest and oldest universities in the world. Visitors also come to enjoy the Roman archeological sites, extensive amount of museums, and to take part in the Cologne Trade Fair. Artists, historians, and tourists all find plenty to do and see when visiting this historic city.
Best Times to Visit Cologne, Germany
Tourism is an important facet of this city, and tourists are warmly welcomed all year. If you're interested in coming to Cologne for sightseeing, spring and fall offer the best opportunities to sightsee in a mild climate. During summer, this part of Germany tends to get somewhat humid and uncomfortable for many tourists. Although summer is a beautiful time of year, it's not an ideal time to be outdoors all day.
During winter, Germany tends to get somewhat cold. While Germany in winter is beautiful, and flights and hotels are more affordable, you need to bundle up if you plan on being outdoors, and it gets especially chilly at night. Fortunately, Cologne tends to have more mild winters, so if you want to save money, you can do so and not be cold by coming to Cologne in winter.
Although it tends to get pricier, spring and fall are excellent times to visit Cologne. When the weather warms up, the beer gardens begin opening. One of the most enjoyable events in Cologne happens in November when Cologne Carnival commences. Although this is the biggest and most extensive festival in Cologne, the city celebrates festivals almost monthly, and you can certainly find a festival to enjoy any time of the year.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Cologne, Germany:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Cologne, Germany. Analyze these illustrations to determine the least expensive seasons to book a room in Cologne for upcoming travels.
Luxury Options in the Cologne, Germany
4 Star Average Prices: $142.10
You won't necessarily find the upscale hotels in Cologne as you would in trendier parts of Europe, but there are still some options if you are looking for luxury hotels. Cologne Marriott Hotel is one option for visitors. This five-star hotel offers both deluxe and executive rooms. The hotel offers Wi-Fi in public areas and 24-hour room service. There is a coffee shop, restaurant, 24-hour business center, and health club.
If you're looking for a luxury hotel, consider staying at Hyatt Regency Cologne. Located on the Rhine River, this property offers stunning views in a comfortable and upscale atmosphere. If you want a luxury experience, consider booking the executive suite that offers a king bed, separate living area and bedroom, guest room massage availability, and bathrobes and slippers.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst is a highly rated luxury hotel option in Cologne's Old Town. Many of the rooms offer high ceilings and king beds. This hotel, constructed in the Bayh century, is steps away from Cologne Cathedral.
Affordable Hotel Options in Cologne, Germany
3 Star Average Prices: $112.17
Hotels in Cologne are much more affordable than other parts of Europe. If you want an affordable hotel that still offers plenty of amenities, consider staying at Hotel Windsor, which is centrally located, but still offers an affordable price. Only 10 minutes from the cathedral and public transportation, this hotel offers Wi-Fi at a surcharge, comfortable rooms, and breakfast.
Hotel Cristall also offers plenty of amenities for a reasonable price. The rooms have two twin beds or one double bed. This hotel is 5 minutes from the train, making it easy for tourists to get around the city. If you're in Cologne for business, you can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and conference rooms. The hotel offers friendly service and a concierge, who can make suggestions about places to visit during your stay.
2 Star Average Prices: $91.17
Best Discounts in Cologne, Germany
For those with AAA memberships, there are plenty of hotels offering a discount. Many hotels in Cologne also offer both military and senior discounts and senior discounts. Wyndham Cologne Hotel offers an ideal location near many museums, theaters, and historical points of interest. The rooms are modern and comfortable Look out the window to see Cologne Cathedral, and head out the door to attend a performance at Musical Dome.
For more discount opportunities, consider staying at Radisson Blu Hotel Cologne. This four-star hotel offers a beautiful walk to the historical town or an easy train ride on the tram. Each room has a laptop compatible safe, and luxury bathrooms with heated floors. The hotel has a garage for guest use. Features and amenities include room service, a fitness and health center, and comfortable beds to make you comfortable after a long day or sightseeing.
Hilton Cologne offers discounts to AAA members, military personnel, and seniors. This five-star hotel is in the city center putting you steps away from all local attractions. All rooms have modern upgrades. Amenities available 24 hours are front desk, business center, and fitness facilities.
Best Value Options in Cologne, Germany
Courtyard Cologne offers excellent value for the price with its location in Old Town. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas, parking, breakfast at a surcharge, and a concierge available to help set up tours or tickets. Ameron Hotel Regent also offers a great value with a 24-hour fitness center, sauna, and 24-hour business center.
If you want great value near the airport, consider staying at Leonardo Hotel. This hotel has a fitness center, restaurant and café. he rooms are also sound proofed, so you don't have to worry about noisy neighbors.
Art, History, and Shopping in Cologne, Germany
Cologne is sometimes overlooked in Germany, as many people tend to plan trips to Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich before planning a trip to Cologne. This city should be at the top of your list to experience the French, British, and German influences. Fly into Düsseldorf, and make the short drive down to Cologne to experience the art, history, Roman archeological sites, and Cologne Cathedral.
The Christmas market is also a big draw to Cologne. Although Christmas markets are found all throughout Germany, Cologne's is certainly something to see. With a Ferris wheel, lights, and hundreds of food stands, this Christmas market is like the greatest farmer's market with Christmas cheer. Prices also tend to be cheaper during the winter because the weather is chillier, but fortunately, Cologne doesn't see the harsh winters that other parts of Germany tends to experience.
If you're an art buff, Cologne also offers museums to take up an entire week trip to Cologne. Many museums honor the significance of the city with art and historical exhibits. Art historians and archaeologists spent millions of dollars to rebuild the city after its almost destruction during the World War II, and the city is proud of its churches, museums, and other points of interest.
Sports buffs can enjoy the German Sport & Olympia Museum. Art buffs can head to Museum Ludwig or Schnutgen Museum. Other museums include the Fragrance Museum, Rhenish Photographic Archive, and Wallraf-Richartz Museum. Whether you want to see modern art, art from the Medieval period, or Asian art, then there is a museum for you and your family to enjoy.
Cologne is often overlooked by some of the larger cities in Germany, which is why it's the ideal city to visit. You won't have the massive crowds that some of the other cities have, and you won't pay a premium price for hotels that you'll see in other cities. This understated city has beautiful views, a stunning cathedral, and local flare that will impress tourists from anywhere in the world.
A visit to Cologne Recapped
Cologne is the oldest and one of the largest cities in Germany. Its formulation dates back over 2000 years ago. It is known not just for its history but its cultural appeal brought about primarily by the world-renowned cathedral spires which are indeed architectural wonders and topnotch museums. The city has been drawing two million tourists every year and it has been looking forward to see you. Discover its heritage by visiting Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum that has a collection of historical artifacts. Experience its vibrant art scene through stopping by Museum of Applied Art and Cologne Carnival Museum. Going back to the present, the city has been fast becoming a premier venue for different sports and music events because of its world-class stadiums like LANXESS Arena, RheinEnergie Stadion where 2006 FIFA World Cup was held and Tanzbrunnen. The town may be old but its nightlife is young. Feel the pulsating energy oozing from partygoers that conquer over 70clubs. Whatever your taste in music is, you'll find a bar easily that will fit your taste even if you aren't in your home turf. Visitors are indeed welcome not just to the city but to the parties.
'The belief that there is only one truth, and that oneself is in possession of it, is the root of all evil in the world." - says Max Bruch, a composer, who lived in Cologne.
A Few Words About Cologne
Cologne is the hub of culture in the region around the Rhine River in Germany. The city dates back 2000 years, when it was first established. The first thing that you will notice about the city is the striking and mysterious Gothic architecture everywhere you go. It is a major European metropolitan region, and the fourth largest city in Germany. The city's unique name has an even more unique history behind it. The city was established in 1st century AD as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. Later, the French "Cologne" which comes from Colonia, was adopted. Ever since, this has been used in modern English as well.
Stay in Cologne, Stay on Budget
Cologne may be a bustling metropolitan, but it has a number of cheap hotels you can opt for. You can take a look at the Premier Classe Koein West. It is value for money, with its wide range of services. It is located in Junkersdorf, a little far off from the main city. So if you are looking for some time away from the noise of the busy city and some time to relax and unwind, this hotel would be perfect for you. The rooms are clean and well maintained, with bottled water, room service, phones, satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. This truly is one of the best budget hotels in Cologne.
Another splendid example of cheap Cologne hotels is the Mercury Hotel Severinshof Köln City. The rooms here are comfortable and have a cozy atmosphere. One of the top cheap hotels in the area, it promises you a home away from home.
High-End Hotels of Cologne
The city of Cologne has a lot to offer you in terms of luxury. A top pick in plush hotels in Cologne, Hotel Boulevard in Hansaring would be perfect for you if you're looking for grandeur. A charming hotel, Hotel Boulevard is located within the proximity of Media Park and the famous Cologne Cathedral. That makes it popular amongst the tourists, who are keen on visiting these tourist attractions spread across the city. Apart from that, the hotel provides sound proofed rooms with free Wi-Fi, dry cleaning facilities, free newspapers, laundry facilities, concierge services and a restaurant and bar.
One of the best Cologne hotels is the Radisson Blu Hotel. The hotel features two restaurants and one bar. There is room service at your disposal 24 hours a day. You also get free Wi-Fi in the hotel. The rooms feature clean, well equipped bathrooms with telephones. Thee guest rooms have minibars, satellite TVs and also hair dryers.
Things to Do and See in Cologne
The Cologne Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Most of us have seen Gothic architecture only in the pages of books, but you can witness it firsthand in Cologne. It was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is also seat of Archbishop of Cologne. The twin towers of the Cathedral form an integral part of the silhouette of the city.
Apart from that you must pay a visit to Museum Ludwig. Art lover or not, you must be familiar with the works of Picasso. This museum has a large collection of Picasso's paintings.
FAQs about hotels in Cologne