Cologne Hotels

Top reasons to visit Cologne

• Iconic Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning Gothic masterpiece is a must-visit.
• Cultural Vibrancy: Experience engaging exhibitions, theatre shows, and a lively nightlife that showcases Cologne's unique charm.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun-filled days for everyone.
• Diverse Art Scene: Explore numerous art museums and cultural venues that reflect the city's rich artistic heritage.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover friendly areas nearby, perfect for relaxed strolls and budget excursions.

Find great hotels in Cologne

Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Cologne, where you can find the perfect hotel or guesthouse to suit your needs. Whether you're travelling with family, on business, or seeking a pet-friendly stay, Cologne offers a variety of options. Explore the best hotels in the area and enjoy a memorable experience amidst the city's rich culture and history.

• Maritim Hotel Köln: Nestled in the heart of Cologne, the Maritim Hotel Köln is a 4-star haven for those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience combined with business amenities. This property boasts a full-service spa offering a range of treatments including massages, body wraps, and manicures, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation after a day of exploring the city. With an inviting pool and sauna on-site, guests can unwind in style. Its convenient location also caters to business travellers, ensuring a productive stay in a serene environment.
• Steigenberger Hotel Köln: The Steigenberger Hotel Köln is a welcoming 4-star establishment perfect for families and business travellers alike. This hotel prides itself on being inclusive, with amenities tailored for the LGBTQIA community. Families will appreciate the thoughtful services for children, such as complimentary cribs and a first aid kit. The hotel’s sophisticated atmosphere is complemented by modern comforts, making it an excellent choice for those looking to balance family time and professional commitments while enjoying a vibrant city experience.
• Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln: As a luxurious 5-star option, the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln is a fantastic choice for travellers seeking a pet-friendly, spa-themed getaway that is also LGBTQIA welcoming. This hotel provides exceptional amenities, including a full spa service and a pool with inclusive facilities. Pets are warmly welcomed with available food and water bowls, ensuring your furry companions enjoy the stay as much as you do. The elegant ambiance and comprehensive services make this hotel a perfect base for exploring the charm of Cologne.

Where to stay in Cologne

Cologne, the largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modernity. Whether you're exploring the iconic Cologne Cathedral or enjoying a stylish getaway in its central districts, the city is perfect for families and romantic escapes alike. Nearby regions provide a friendly atmosphere and opportunities for budget excursions, making Cologne an ideal base for discovering the diverse charms of this fascinating part of Germany.

• Innenstadt: The vibrant heart of Cologne, Innenstadt is a bustling borough that draws visitors year-round, especially peaking in March and September to October. Renowned for its cultural, family-friendly, and entertainment-themed experiences, this area features a myriad of attractions including a state-of-the-art arena for concerts and events, a lively shopping centre, and diverse entertainment venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history with landmarks such as historic buildings and places of worship located in close proximity. A trip to Innenstadt promises an exciting blend of culture and modernity.
• Old Town Cologne: Steeped in history and charm, Old Town Cologne is a picturesque neighbourhood that captivates visitors throughout the year, with peak times in August and October to November. Known for its cultural, family-oriented, and business-friendly environments, this area is bustling with activity. Visitors can enjoy the local theatre scene, shop at quaint boutiques, and attend events at the nearby arena entertainment facility. The neighbourhood is also home to iconic historic places, buildings, and places of worship, making it a delightful destination for those seeking to explore Cologne’s rich heritage.
• Leverkusen: Located just outside of Cologne, Leverkusen is a dynamic district offering a balance of culture, business, and outdoor experiences. Visitor numbers are consistent throughout the year, with peaks in March to April and September. The area boasts an array of attractions including modern arena facilities, relaxing spa treatments, and opportunities for body wellness. As a hub for conferences and events, Leverkusen also features significant historic sites, making it an attractive option for both leisure and business travellers alike. Discover the unique blend of urban life and natural beauty that Leverkusen has to offer.

Things to do in Cologne

Cologne offers a delightful blend of cultural and family-oriented activities, making it an ideal destination for entertaining vacations. Visitors can indulge in thrilling motor racing, enjoy engaging exhibitions, and immerse themselves in the vibrant theatre scene. Don't miss the city's lively nightlife, where you can experience the local atmosphere and entertainment options that truly reflect Cologne's unique charm.

Shopping

Discover Cologne's Old Market, a vibrant public market perfect for unique gifts and souvenirs. Visit the family-friendly City Center Porz for a mix of shopping and dining. Don’t miss Neumarkt Passage, a lively shopping mall offering entertainment and a variety of shops for all ages.

Recreation

Experience the exhilarating atmosphere at RheinEnergieStadion and Ostermann-Arena, where you can soak in the sports vibes while enjoying various events. For ultimate relaxation, visit Claudius Therme, a serene oasis offering rejuvenating body treatments and wellness facilities that provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water fun at Aqualand Leisure Pool, where slides and wave pools await at Fuhlinger Lake, perfect for families and adventurers alike. Alternatively, visit Aggua Troisdorf for more water attractions. For adrenaline seekers, the Michael Schumacher Kart and Event Centre offers an exhilarating karting experience.

Nightlife

Experience Cologne's vibrant nightlife at the Musical Dome, where the atmosphere is filled with city romance and lively entertainment. For a cultural touch, enjoy the enchanting performances at the Cologne Philharmonic and Theatre am Dom, both offering a blend of romance and captivating artistic experiences.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cologne

Cologne offers numerous free attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral and Rheinau Harbour, allowing you to explore without spending a penny. For public transport, consider using trains or trams, or even biking to save money. Visit during cheaper months like February, July, and December, and look for hotel deals on Expedia, especially one month in advance. Fridays are generally the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to further savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cologne are February, July and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Cologne is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cologne is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Cologne is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Cologne with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Cologne

Cologne is an excellent destination for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a wealth of attractions such as the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the KölnTurm, and the Cologne Philharmonic. With a diverse range of art museums and event venues, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant cultural scene while enjoying family-friendly activities. Whether you're exploring local landmarks or indulging in city experiences, Cologne promises a memorable getaway.

• LANXESS Arena: Experience world-class entertainment in this vibrant arena, hosting concerts, sports events, and family shows. Its lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for an exciting night out in Cologne.
• Rheinpark: Enjoy the beauty of nature in this expansive urban park, ideal for families and leisurely strolls. With lush greenery, playgrounds, and stunning views of the Rhine River, it offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle.
• Forum Leverkusen: This modern event venue is perfect for business travellers, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. It hosts conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events, making it a hub for professional networking in the region.

Best time to go to Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cologne falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Cologne falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
February	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	50.5°F (10.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cologne

Cologne is easily accessible via its major airports, with Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) situated 12.9km from the city centre and offering excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln and Hyatt Regency Cologne, both providing various transportation services. Dortmund Airport (DTM), located 78.9km away, features the Radisson Blu Hotel Dortmund and Hotel Unique, which offer convenient transfers. Weeze Airport (NRN), 91.7km from Cologne, boasts hotel choices like the 4-star Sport- und Tagungshotel De Poort, with shuttle services available. Each airport has ample transport options to ensure a seamless journey into Cologne.