Find hotels in Cologne from £53

Top reasons to visit Cologne

• Stunning Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic Gothic cathedral is a must-visit for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance.
• Vibrant Cultural Scene: Enjoy a mix of art museums, theatres, and live entertainment, catering to diverse tastes.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Explore the renowned Cologne Zoo and engaging walking tours suitable for all ages.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Wander through picturesque areas filled with shops, cafes, and local charm.
• Festive Christmas Markets: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Cologne's festive markets during the winter season.

Find great hotels in Cologne

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Cologne, perfect for every type of traveller. From pet-friendly hotels to family-oriented guesthouses, the city offers a variety of choices to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking affordable lodging in the Innenstadt or a package deal for a memorable stay, Cologne's welcoming hotels ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for business trips or leisurely getaways.

• Maritim Hotel Köln: An elegant 4-star hotel located in the heart of Cologne, the Maritim Hotel Köln is perfect for those seeking a blend of business and leisure. With comprehensive facilities tailored for business travellers, including multiple meeting rooms and a dedicated conference space, it caters well to corporate guests. The hotel features a luxurious full-service spa that offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments such as body scrubs, body wraps, and facial treatments, along with a refreshing pool area. Its central location allows easy access to the city's vibrant attractions, making it an excellent choice for both business and city-themed vacations.
• Steigenberger Hotel Köln: This welcoming 4-star hotel is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, making it particularly appealing for LGBTQIA travellers and families. The Steigenberger Hotel Köln boasts a range of family-oriented amenities, including free cribs and a first-aid kit, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests of all ages. The hotel also provides multiple meeting rooms, catering to business needs. Its strategic location allows for convenient exploration of Cologne's cultural landmarks, making it a fantastic option for those looking to blend business with leisure while enjoying a family-friendly environment.
• Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln: As a distinguished 5-star property, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln sets the standard for luxury and hospitality. This hotel is ideal for business travellers and pet owners, offering accessible business amenities, including a 24-hour business centre and multiple meeting rooms. Its pet-friendly policy includes thoughtful provisions such as food and water bowls, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests with furry companions. The hotel's connection with LGBTQIA travel guides reinforces its welcoming atmosphere. Located near the city's historic sites, it provides an opulent base for both business and leisure visitors.

Where to stay in Cologne

Cologne offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and entertainment, making it an ideal holiday destination. Explore the stunning Cologne Cathedral, wander through charming neighbourhoods, and indulge in festive Christmas markets during the winter months. Nearby cities such as Bonn and Düsseldorf also provide unique experiences, from business atmospheres to romantic getaways. Whether you're seeking family fun or cultural excursions, Cologne and its surroundings promise an unforgettable vacation.

• Old Town Cologne: Nestled in the heart of Cologne, Old Town is a vibrant neighbourhood overflowing with history and charm. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals from August to October. The cobbled streets are lined with historic buildings, monuments, and places of worship, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts and families. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local markets and explore the lively arena entertainment facilities. Old Town's captivating atmosphere is enriched by its cultural experiences, providing a delightful escape for all who venture here.
• Innenstadt: The bustling borough of Innenstadt serves as the commercial and cultural hub of Cologne. With visitor numbers peaking in March and September to October, this area is ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Innenstadt offers a variety of attractions, including theatres and music concerts, catering to entertainment lovers of all ages. The rich history is evident in the numerous historic places and monuments scattered throughout. A leisurely stroll through Innenstadt guarantees an engaging experience, filled with cultural delights and urban sophistication.
• Leverkusen: Situated just outside Cologne, Leverkusen is a dynamic district that harmoniously blends culture, sports, and outdoor activities. Peak visitor numbers occur in March to April and September, drawing those eager to explore its parks and sports facilities. Leverkusen is known for its theatre and arena entertainment offerings, as well as its spa retreats, making it a well-rounded destination for relaxation and excitement. The district is also home to notable landmarks, including historic sites and a vibrant stadium, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.

Things to do in Cologne

Cologne offers a delightful mix of culture and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a city break. Explore the vibrant arena entertainment facility, catch a show at the theatre, or indulge in retail therapy at shopping centres. Don't miss the chance to join walking tours or embark on day trips from Cologne to discover the charm of North Rhine-Westphalia and beyond, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Shopping

In Cologne, visit the Old Market for a vibrant public market atmosphere, and the City Center Porz for a family-friendly shopping experience. For a larger selection, the Rathaus Galerie offers a mix of business and entertainment vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out shopping centres beyond 6.2km for even more options.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at RheinEnergieStadion, where you can enjoy sports events and feel the excitement of the crowd. For a unique blend of music and leisure, Tanzbrunnen Köln offers vibrant concerts in a picturesque setting. Unwind at Neptunbad, indulging in soothing body treatments for ultimate relaxation.

Adventure

Aqualand Leisure Pool at Fuhlinger Lake offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and relaxing saunas, perfect for family fun and adventure seekers. Experience stunning views of the city aboard the Cologne Cable Car, where you can take in the scenery while gliding effortlessly above the Rhine. For a high-speed thrill, visit the Michael Schumacher Kart and Event Center, where you can race against friends on a challenging track.

Nightlife

In Cologne, the Musical Dome invites you to enjoy vibrant nights filled with music and dance, while the Cologne Philharmonic offers a sophisticated cultural experience. For a family-friendly atmosphere, Schauspiel Köln presents engaging performances, ensuring a delightful evening out in the city.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cologne

Cologne offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions such as Cologne Cathedral and Rheinau Harbour, while getting around via affordable public transport options like trams and bikes. The best months to visit for lower prices are February, July, and December, with Fridays being the cheapest day to stay. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or take advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia. Combining your accommodation with flights and activities can also lead to significant savings, so keep an eye out for exclusive discounts and offers.

• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria with ease. You can organise your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Cologne with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Cologne

Cologne is perfect for a culture-rich and family-friendly holiday, offering a variety of attractions such as art museums, traditional museums, and event venues. Notable points of interest include the stunning Cologne Cathedral and the captivating Cologne Zoo, providing a delightful blend of cultural experiences and entertainment. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere while exploring its artistic and historical treasures.

• Phantasialand: Experience the thrill of rides and enchanting shows at Phantasialand, a captivating theme park that offers a magical atmosphere for families. With its diverse attractions and beautifully themed areas, it's a place where fun and excitement are around every corner.
• Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cologne Cathedral boasts stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of this iconic landmark, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the city.
• LANXESS Arena: As one of Germany's premier entertainment venues, LANXESS Arena hosts a variety of events from concerts to sporting matches. With its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly shows, it's an excellent choice for an entertaining evening out.

Best time to go to Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Slightly Low
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	Average
April	50.5°F (10.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	Slightly High	Slightly High
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	Average	Slightly High
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cologne

Accessing Cologne is convenient via its major airports. Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is situated 5.0km from the city centre, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln and Hyatt Regency Cologne nearby, both offering airport shuttle services. Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) is 15.5km away, featuring luxurious hotels such as Hotel Kö59 and Living Hotel De Medici, which provide 24-hour airport shuttles on request. Lastly, Dortmund Airport (DTM), located 30.4km from Cologne, has the Radisson Blu Hotel Dortmund and Dorint An den Westfalenhallen Dortmund, offering transfer services to the airport. Each option provides a range of transport services for a smooth journey.