Overlooking the Rhine river, this cosmopolitan hotel is less than a kilometre from Schokoladenmuseum Köln’s chocolate exhibits and 1.7 km from Cologne Cathedral.

High quality rooms come with room service, minibars and rainfall showerheads, as well as flat-screen TVs an d free Wi-Fi. Upgraded quarters add cathedral or river views, Nespresso machines and/or pull-out sofas.

There’s a great Mediterranean bistro, plus a modern sports bar. Other amenities include a courtyard terrace, a sauna, a fitness centre and a business centre. Hot breakfast and indoor parking are available (fee).

Local tips: 600m from the city centre and 750m from the railway station. Local attractions include the Kolner Dom Cathedral, Imhoff Chocolate Museum, Kolner Zoo and Phantasialand.

Food, drink and entertainment: Restaurant Mediterrano serves a full breakfast buffet, offers lunch and dinner options of Mediterranean cuisine and regional beverages; and a bar serving a variety of drinks. Sport, games and activities: A fitness centre, sauna, steam bath and relaxation area.