Steps from the Cathedral, and view-fans will most definitely want to climb the bell tower. (Worth the work.)

Tweet, post, pin and ‘gram with reckless abandon. Thank you, free WiFi.

Well-connected via public transport, so grab free breakfast and get going. (Ask front-deskers for insider tips.)

Minimalist rooms treat you to original sculptures by the students from the Münster Academy of Art.

Right across from the Cologne Cathedral, a 2-min jaunt from the main train station. Plus, free breakfast doesn't hurt.

Don’t be fooled by the blend-in exterior. The interiors are the star of the show here – oodles of art to peruse.

Close to (you guessed it) the fairgrounds, tucked in a quiet 'hood.

Historic building with photography throughout, in honour of the building’s connection with the founder of the Gruber Collection in Museum Ludwig.

Walking distance from shops, restaurants, bars, museums and, of course, that famous cathedral next to the train station (so everything, really).

In heart of the city, near all the biggies and an easy 15-min suitcase-tug from the main station.

Win-win locale: tucked away on a low-key side street yet easily walkable to the hoppin’ centre.

Lovely boutique hotel in a home dating to 1900. Sits just minutes from Cologne Cathedral.

Proximity to the main station, famous Cologne Cathedral and oodles of bars & restaurants make it a triple-wow, which is whole wow better than a double.

Surprisingly modern considering its proximity to the Old Town (15-min stroll). Public transit stops are even closer.