Cologne is located on the banks of the River Rhine. It is one of the oldest cities in Germany, having been established by the Romans in 38 BC. Today, Cologne is marked by a set of cathedral spires that sit high above the city and famed for its vibrantly modern art scene.
There are more than 230 hotels in Cologne, with over 17,000 beds. These hotels are available in all categories and prices, ranging from simple and cosy guesthouse accommodation to a luxurious suite at one of the international first class hotels.
Top Attractions in Cologne
Cologne Cathedral is the best-known monument in the city and the most treasured by residents. This Gothic Church was started in 1248 and completed in 1880. The Cathedral is amazing at any time of the day, but it is even more special whenever there is a mass going on. It's free to go inside, but for a couple of Euros, you can climb to the top of the belfry tower. Cologne Cathedral showcases the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is said to contain relics of the famed Three Magi.
If you're looking for somewhere luxurious to relax, head to Claudius Therme, Cologne's most famous spa. Based on the traditional Roman baths, Claudius Therme offers giant pools, Jacuzzis, a sauna, and massage areas.
Top museums in Cologne include the Farina Fragrance Museum. Cologne was where Eau de Cologne was born. The Romisch Germanisches Museum highlights ancient Germanic and Roman culture.
Cologne is also home to some magnificent chocolate. You can learn about, see, and taste it at the Chocolate Museum that is located right above the city's famous chocolate factory.
Arts and Entertainment
Cologne Carnival is one of the most popular street festivals in Europe. Carnival season in Cologne officially begins on 11th November at 11:11 am. The 'Tolle Tage' (or Crazy Days) does not begin until Women's Carnival (or Weiberfastnacht) on the Thursday preceding Ash Wednesday. All the pubs and bars in Cologne are packed with people wearing costumes, drinking, and dancing in the streets. Around one million people celebrate the event each year.
Cologne Hotels
There are numerous hotels in the city and Cologne accommodation includes budget, mid range and five-star rated options. Cheap hotels in Cologne offer basic facilities and rooms with either breakfast included or extra. Mid range accommodation includes four-star hotels, which are ideally located within the centre of Cologne. Top of the range hotels typically offer designer interiors with rooftop restaurants and spa areas. Hotels can be chosen near lively clubs and pubs in the centre of Cologne or in quieter locations in the nearby streets. If you're lucky, you can get a room that overlooks the Rhine. But if you want to stay a bit further from the action, there are two great suburbs to check out:
Bruehl is home to a stunning palace called the Castle Augustusburg that was built as a group project by Germany's top 3 architects back in the 1700's.
Muelheim is also known as the “City on the River". When you stay there, it is easy to get to either Cologne or Dusseldorf.