We chose this hotel for its location and were not disappointed as in that respect it is perfect, a stone's throw from the Dom, the main railway station and shopping areas. On arrival Reception staff took time to actually take us to our room rather than just give us the key and point as is more often the case, though this could have been something to do with the fact that, like a previous reviewer we had a room on the 6th floor and the lift only goes to the 5th! (the floor is accessed using a further lift or stairs - which could prove a little confusing for the first time visitor). The room had everything you would expect at the price level including complimentary internet access (a Samsung tablet is provided) mini-bar (soft-drinks and beer only) and infotainment system. The bathroom was marble and large with two basins and shower over the bath which was superb in operation, though a big 'no-no' for me was the amount of mildew around the bath/shower tiling. The main issue with the room though was the heating - which didn't heat the room at all (our visit was in December). Yes we should have reported it when we arrived at 3pm but foolishly thought a miracle would happen and the system might spring into life by the time we returned later that evening. Sadly none did. We didn't eat in the hotel restaurant so cannot comment but The Piano Bar deserves a mention, as, though small, it has great charm and courteous, attentive staff. Overall? The heating issue I'm sure was a one-off which had we been a little less naive could have been resolved, and certainly wouldn't put us off returning.

My wife and I came to Cologne to see the Christmas markets and to start our journey down the Rhine River to end in Basel Switzerland. We were very much looking forward to our time in Cologne and especially at this hotel since it was right next to the cathedral. I asked for a suite with a view of the cathedral and I was given one that has a spectacular view! That's the best part of this suite. Otherwise the street noise is very loud and it lasts well into the early morning hours. There is a bar next door and the local police do nothing to supervise the drunken inhabitants that spill out as late as 330 in the morning screaming and yelling all the way. On top of that we hear the buses and cars go by at all hours of the night. Finally our suite, which is made up of rooms 301 and 302 is right next to the elevator and it too groans all night long waking us up.

The living room looks like it is almost empty. The furniture consists of two armchairs & a very uncomfortable little settee and a desk with another uncomfortable chair. The little round table is dirty and was never properly cleaned before we arrived. I can't imagine that this is the way they furnish their suites elsewhere in this hotel! It is absolutely the worst suite I've ever stayed in. We discussed the situation with the concierge, and he assured us they have many other suites that are much more sumptuous and are furnished either in traditional or a modern fashion. Unfortunately, the room we had is very spartan mostly because it's one of the oldest in the hotel.

The bed itself is comfortable but as I said earlier being right on the street it's very difficult to have a good night's sleep.

Elsewhere, this hotel is quite attractive. The lobby is beautiful and the two restaurants are quite nice. The staff is friendly and engaging, and I hope that our stay is just an anomaly for this hotel. If it wasn't for the wonderful staff, I would have rated our experience two stars at the most.

I'll review the restaurant Hansen Stubs separately. It was quite nice.