Top reasons to visit Cologne
- Iconic Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the stunning Gothic architecture of the cathedral is a must-visit landmark.
- Engaging Cultural Activities: Enjoy a variety of art and historical museums, vibrant theatre performances, and music concerts throughout the city.
- Cologne Cable Car: Experience breathtaking views of the city while enjoying a unique ride across the Rhine River.
- Vibrant Shopping Scene: Explore the bustling Schildergasse for a diverse range of shopping options.
- Charming Nearby Towns: Visit picturesque towns like Bonn and Düsseldorf for romantic getaways and local charm.
Find great hotels in Cologne
Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Cologne, where you can find options that cater to various needs, including pet-friendly facilities and family-friendly amenities. Whether you're on business or enjoying a leisurely vacation, Cologne's hotels offer a blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal destination for all travellers. Explore the diverse lodging possibilities that this vibrant city in North Rhine-Westphalia has to offer.
- Maritim Hotel Köln: Nestled in the heart of Cologne, the 4-star Maritim Hotel Köln offers a harmonious blend of business and leisure amenities. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it is ideal for those seeking a spa-themed city getaway. Guests can indulge in a full spa experience, complete with daily sauna access, an indoor pool, and rejuvenating body wraps. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring the city's vibrant culture and history.
- Steigenberger Hotel Köln: This family-friendly 4-star hotel, boasting a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, is perfect for travellers seeking both comfort and convenience. The Steigenberger Hotel Köln is notable for its thoughtful amenities for children, including complimentary cribs and a first aid kit. Additionally, it welcomes pets, providing various pet-focused services. The hotel’s location allows easy access to family-friendly attractions and business centres alike, making it a versatile choice for all visitors.
- Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln: A luxurious 5-star establishment, the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln offers an exquisite blend of business facilities and wellness options, earning a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. The hotel features a full-service spa and a range of treatments, along with pool facilities that are fee-inclusive. Pet owners will appreciate the hotel’s pet-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable stay for all members of the family. Its prime location enhances the experience, placing guests close to Cologne's rich cultural offerings.
Where to stay in Cologne
Cologne, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of culture, entertainment, and history. Explore the iconic Cologne Cathedral in the heart of the city or indulge in shopping along Schildergasse. Don't miss the bustling Cologne Fairgrounds, perfect for business travellers. Nearby, charming towns like Bonn and Düsseldorf provide romantic getaways and friendly atmospheres. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or budget excursions, Cologne and its surroundings promise an unforgettable experience.
- Innenstadt: As the vibrant heart of Cologne, Innenstadt boasts a mix of cultural experiences and entertainment options. Located centrally, it attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of March and September to October. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting historic landmarks such as the iconic Cologne Cathedral, or enjoying a live performance at one of the many theatres. Families will appreciate the variety of activities available, including arena entertainment venues that host concerts and events.
- Leverkusen: Situated just a short distance from Cologne, Leverkusen is a thriving district known for its cultural and outdoor attractions. The area sees a steady influx of visitors, especially from March to April and September. Ideal for families, Leverkusen offers a variety of engaging experiences, including theatre performances and relaxing body treatment centres. Notable landmarks include a major sports facility and a convention centre, making it an excellent destination for both leisure and business travellers.
- Old Town Cologne: This charming neighbourhood is steeped in history, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Cologne. While visitor numbers peak in the warmer months of August and October to November, Old Town Cologne welcomes tourists throughout the year. The area is perfect for families and those interested in cultural experiences, with attractions like the historic buildings and the magnificent cathedral just steps away. Visitors can indulge in shopping at local centres or enjoy a night out at the theatre or arena entertainment facilities, all while soaking in the rich heritage of this enchanting district.
Things to do in and around Cologne
Shopping
Discover Cologne’s Schildergasse, one of Europe’s busiest shopping streets, lined with popular high-street brands and boutiques. Visit the Köln Arcaden for a mix of shops and eateries, or explore the traditional atmosphere of the Belgian Quarter’s unique stores and cafés for delightful gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the soothing wellness treatments at Claudius Therme, where you can unwind in thermal baths and enjoy a variety of saunas. For a moment of tranquillity, stroll through the nearby Volksgarten, a picturesque park perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation amidst nature.
Adventure
The Cologne Cable Car offers a thrilling ride above the city, providing stunning views and an adventurous experience for families. For a more intense challenge, head to Kletterpark Bad Neuenahr, where you can tackle ziplines and obstacles in a lush outdoor setting, located 47km away. Alternatively, Seilbahn Burg presents another scenic cable car ride, situated 26km from Cologne, perfect for enjoying the surrounding landscapes.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Belgian Quarter, where you can enjoy trendy bars like Die Wohngemeinschaft for inventive cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Cologne Cathedral area, where you’ll find various pubs that offer local beers and live music throughout the night.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cologne
To save money on your trip to Cologne, consider visiting in February, July, or December when prices are lower. The city offers free attractions like the Cologne Cathedral and Rheinau Harbour. For transport, utilise trains, trams, and bikes; walking is also a great option. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, ideally for a Friday stay, and use Expedia’s tools to find eco-friendly options and last-minute deals. Combining flights and hotel bookings can yield additional savings. Remember, avoid Tuesdays for the highest rates.
- 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: Book your hotel in Cologne about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- 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, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most competitive prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Cologne with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Cologne
Cologne is an ideal destination for culturally themed family vacations, offering a plethora of attractions such as art museums, historical museums, and the iconic cathedral. Visitors can immerse themselves in a blend of culture, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant city and its surroundings.
- Phantasialand: Immerse yourself in the excitement of this captivating theme park, where thrilling rides and enchanting shows create a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families. With various themed areas, it offers a unique blend of entertainment and adventure.
- Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent Gothic cathedral boasts stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Its towering spires dominate the skyline, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and cultural significance.
- Chocolate Museum: Delight in the world of cocoa at this charming museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate, witness its production, and indulge in delicious samples. The interactive exhibits provide an engaging experience for chocolate lovers.
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.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Cologne
Flying into Cologne is convenient with several major airports nearby. FRAnkfurt International Airport (FRA) is situated 151km away, with luxurious hotels like the Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof and JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt located within 11km. Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) is a mere 40km from Cologne, offering upscale accommodations such as Living Hotel De Medici and Hotel Kö59 Düsseldorf, both only 6km from the airport. Lastly, EINdhoven Airport (EIN) is 124km away, featuring hotels like NH Collection Eindhoven and Westcord Hotel Eindhoven, also 6km from the airport. Excellent transportation services are available from these hotels to their respective airports.