The Coolest Airbnbs in Cologne, Germany

There’s never a bad time to visit Germany’s 2,000-year-old city. Cologne straddles both banks of the Rhine and is lined with riverside botanical gardens and sculpture parks. With over 100 museums exhibiting everything from perfume to chocolate, there’s little wonder Köln is considered the German cultural capital. Winter kicks off in November with the annual Cologne Carnival which takes a brief hiatus when the yuletide markets claim the limelight before resuming and going out with a bang in February.

In terms of where to stay, around Cologne Altstadt is the natural choice. Divided into Altstadt Nord and Altstadt Süd, Old Town forms the tourist center while smaller neighborhoods fan out towards the Agnes Quarter (Agnesviertel) in the north, the Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Vierte) to the west, and Südstadt to the south. Cologne Right Bank is referred to as Schäl Sick – the “wrong side” which only makes it more intriguing. This district is the epicenter for large-scale concerts and is closer to Cologne Bonn Airport and Königsforst.

The sophisticated S-Bahn and bus network makes it easy to get around the city and pocketing a KölnCard makes it free to travel. All that’s left to do is book one of these Cologne Airbnbs with cathedral views, riverside living, or outdoor space.

Traveling to Germany? Check out Matador’s Germany accommodations guides:

• These Berlin Airbnbs showcase the German capital’s artsy side
• These Munich Airbnbs put you close to everything in the city
• 6 Airbnbs in Frankfurt, Germany, one of Europe’s leading aviation hubs

We hope you love these Airbnb Cologne vacation rentals! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Mediterranean-style loft full of light

 

See more photosThis chic one-bedroom apartment in Altstadt-Nord is a vision of calm with peach and rose accents and plenty of sunlight. The wooden kitchen carries an earthy vibe and enjoys a view of the secluded patio where you can dine al fresco. Although the place can accommodate six guests, the layout is better suited to a couple or young family. The workspace also makes it one of the best Airbnbs in Cologne for remote workers.

Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $438 per night

Book Now

Modern Airbnb next to Cologne Train Station

 

See more photosThis immaculate rental apartment is a top pick for a longer stay in Cologne. The bedroom features a box spring queen bed and blackout blinds plus direct access to the terrace. Over in the kitchen, you’ll find a Nespresso machine, oven, and dishwasher alongside basic provisions. The Altstadt Nord location is convenient for arriving by train and ticking off all the first-timer sights.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $192 per night

Book Now

Room on the Rhine

 

See more photosWake up to a view of Europe’s grandest waterway at this sunny Right Bank Cologne Airbnb near Rheinpark. This peaceful environment is best appreciated on the botanical terrace over coffee or a cold beer. The homely apartment has a compact kitchen and a bedroom with your choice of double or twin configuration. It’s a 10-minute light rail ride to the center or a pleasant 45-minute walk along the river.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $122 per night

Book Now

Cologne penthouse Airbnb with epic views

 

See more photosCozy yet luxurious, this duplex is stationed on the penthouse floor of a hotel in Altstadt-Nord and features two private terraces. One of these – plus the whirlpool bath – offers a view of the landmark cathedral, Kölner Dom. Decked out like a real home complete with art, trinkets, and kooky touches, these digs will suit a couple or pair of traveling pals. The nearest metro station goes straight to Cologne Bonn Airport.

Three guests, two bedrooms
Price: $209 per night

Book Now

Renovated Altstadt Süd Airbnb in a listed building

 

See more photosThis comfortable vacation unit is in a quieter part of Old Town Cologne yet within walking distance of the cathedral, riverside, and nightlife spots. The covered brick balcony overlooks a private courtyard strewn with trees where you can stow your rental bike. Grab a bag of beans and you can start your day with the grinder and stovetop coffee maker – it’s just like being at home.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $131 per night

Book Now

Urban sanctuary close to sights and transport

 

See more photosThis thoughtfully appointed Airbnb in Cologne’s upmarket Agnes Quarter will soon banish the stress of travel. Movie nights may be enjoyed from the cushy leather couch or hammock whereas the deep tub is perfect for a rejuvenating bubble bath. The master bedroom is fitted with a four-poster bed, the second is designed for a child, and the third may be used as an office if you’re working from the road.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $394 per night

Book Now

Classic Airbnb experience in an über-cool loft

 

See more photosBoth floors of this one-of-a-kind home receive the sun from the double-story window panes that open onto a picturesque patio teeming with greenery. As the usual residence of the host, a stay harks back to the early days of the platform and you’ll find basic cooking and homeware essentials to start you off. Even if your trip is purely for leisure, you might be tempted to set up camp in the mezzanine office and dip into your emails.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $188 per night

Book Now

Villa near Klettenberg Park with a pool (and cats)

 

See more photosGet a feel for suburban life at this fabulous rental south of Altstadt. This is a two-story townhouse with a leafy backyard laid out with a pool and barbecue. Getting to and from town is a doddle thanks to public transport and free parking is provided. On a quirkier note, the homeowners leave their cats in the residence when it’s rented. The neighbors are responsible for the duo but you’ll need to be down for playtime and cuddles.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $1,051 per night

Book Now

Awesome loft in an old coffee roastery

 

See more photosDoes the scent of freshly roasted coffee beans make you weak at the knees? Then you’ll not be able to resist a stay at this unique Cologne Airbnb in a former roastery. The loft contains the original brickwork and oak beams plus repurposed relics from its previous life and a whizzy coffee machine to complete the experience. Given the open-concept layout, it’s recommended for couples or small groups of friends.

Nine guests, one bedroom
Price: $438 per night

Book Now

Central Airbnb steps from Cologne Cathedral

 

See more photosScore the best views in Cologne at this apartment in Altstadt-Nord opposite the world’s tallest twin-spired cathedral. It’s just the right size for a family and an infant crib is available if needed. The three-bedroom rental is a pretty simple affair but the beds are comfy, the kitchen is fully equipped, and the bathroom gives you a choice of a leisurely soak or a speedy shower. There’s zero reason to hire a car and even the use of public transport will be minimal.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $329 per night

Book Now

What time zone is Cologne, Germany?

Cologne is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, West Germany, and observes
Central European Time (CET) as standard (UTC/GMT +02:00). Central European Summer Time (CEST) applies between the last Sunday in March and the final Sunday in October.

What is there to do in Cologne, Germany?

Cologne gives you a taste of everything we love about Germany: multicultural neighborhoods, staggering architecture, hearty food, and damn good bier. These are the best things to do in Cologne (Köln).

• Visit Europe’s second tallest cathedral, the High Gothic Kölner Dom. Admire the twin spires from the plaza before tackling 533 to the top of the belfry. The views are worth it.
• Score a panoramic view from the Cologne Triangle observatory on Schäl Sick. Unlike its Left Bank neighbor, this attraction has an elevator and the added perk of Cologne Cathedral falling in its sightline.
• Wander around the Old Market (Alter Markt) and note the city hall and remains of the Roman gates and walls.
• Hop aboard a riverboat. Rhine sightseeing cruises depart from the Rheingarten and last for one to three hours. There are regular daily sailings between April and October with a reduced service during winter.
• Soak away your worries at the Claudius Thermal Baths in the Right Bank Rheinpark.
• Eau de Cologne was indeed created in the Rhine city and the Farina Fragrance Museum has the scoop on how it came to be. It’s guided tours only and all bookings come with a little gift (hint: you’ll smell great at dinner).
• Schedule your trip around Cologne Carnival (it’s more fun in February) or the festive markets.
• Devour the sweetest moments from history at the Lindt Chocolate Museum before sampling a hot chocolate from the fountain.
• Ogle pop art and surreal paintings by the likes of Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein at Museum Ludwig.
• Flex your knowledge of sporting history at the German Sport and Olympia Museum.
• Punctuate a day of sightseeing with beer hall hopping. Sip a Cologne-brewed Kölsch in the Aachen Pond Beer Garden once the weather warms up or hole up in Brauhaus Früh am Dom when it’s cold out.