Barbarossaplatz is the pulsating core of Cologne—a true slice of European urban life. At its center stands the statue of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, silently watching over the bustling square. Cafés fill the air with rich espresso scents, street vendors call out with traditional German treats, and weekend markets burst with color and energy. Locals in boots, art students with sketchpads, cyclists zipping by—all move in rhythm with the city’s heartbeat, proving that life in Cologne is lived loud, warm, and full of soul.

This 4-star hotel has been fully renovated for ultimate comfort! Nestled by the Rhine River, it's just a 15-minute walk to the Old Town, making it perfect for exploring Cologne. Enjoy bright, cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi, ideal for families or business travelers. Recharge at the fitness center on the 6th floor, or let the kids have fun in the play area and game room. Unwind in the sauna or grab a drink at the bar. With barbecue facilities and kids' meals, every need is taken care of!









Everything you need to know about Barbarossaplatz
Hotel am Dom is a top choice near Barbarossaplatz, offering modern rooms and prime access to Cologne Cathedral just a 5-minute walk away. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city’s historic district, while nearby U-Bahn stations ensure easy travel to major attractions like the Rhine River and Koelnmesse. Guests also enjoy proximity to authentic German restaurants, perfect for immersing in local culture and daily life.
Walk from Barbarossaplatz to Cologne Cathedral in just 7 minutes along Domstraße, a well-marked route lined with cafes and boutiques—perfect for a leisurely stroll. The cathedral square is especially photogenic at night under its illuminated spires. For those with luggage, take tram line 16 to "Köln Hauptbahnhof" and transfer to the S-Bahn or light rail to "Dom/Hbf", reaching the site in about 10 minutes with minimal effort.
Near Barbarossaplatz, immerse yourself in Cologne’s vibrant beer culture through guided pub crawls featuring live music and traditional dishes like sauerkraut and pork knuckle. Local weekend markets offer handmade crafts, regional produce, and limited-edition souvenirs. History lovers should join a walking tour led by local guides, uncovering stories of post-war reconstruction and the city’s enduring spirit.
Barbarossaplatz enjoys excellent public transit access, with multiple tram lines (16, 18, 24) and bus routes passing nearby, linking seamlessly to the airport, main train station, and other attractions. However, due to narrow streets and scarce parking in the old town, driving is not recommended. If you must drive, park in large underground lots such as "Köln-Deutz" or "Hauptbahnhof Tiefgarage," then use walking or public transit to reach your destination—avoiding congestion and fines.
Near Barbarossaplatz, discover authentic German eateries and family-run Gaststätten serving Cologne’s signature roast pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe) with sauerkraut and dark beer. Many feature outdoor seating where you can enjoy evening lights and lively street scenes. Specialty cafés also offer handcrafted pastries and freshly brewed coffee—ideal for a relaxed break. Look for signs reading "Gastwirtschaft" for family-owned spots known for consistent quality and traditional recipes.
Barbarossaplatz shines at night, bathed in warm street lighting and buzzing with activity. From 7 PM onward, expect spontaneous performances and small live acts on the pedestrian square. The Cologne Cathedral glows dramatically under illumination, making it a stunning backdrop. Many shops extend their hours, perfect for late-night browsing. Wear comfortable shoes—this area invites long, leisurely strolls through the heart of the city’s nocturnal energy.
See what other travelers say about Barbarossaplatz

This Novotel in Cologne is an absolute gem! The location is fantastic—just a 25-minute walk from the train station, making it super convenient for travelers arriving by rail. We were welcomed warmly and checked in without any wait, which was a big plus. The staff even gave our kids cute little plush dog toys—such a thoughtful touch! Inside, the hotel is spotless, well-designed, and very inviting. What really stands out is the on-site restaurant: open late into the night, so if you arrive tired and hungry after dark, you can grab a meal here before heading to bed—no stress at all. It’s also walking distance to major attractions like the Chocolate Museum, the Rhine River promenade, and of course, the iconic Cologne Cathedral. If we ever return to Cologne, this is definitely where we’ll stay again. The breakfast is worth every penny—plenty of variety, fresh, and delicious. A top-tier experience overall.

I stayed here for a business trip to the trade show, and it was an excellent experience overall. The hotel is incredibly convenient—just a 10-minute walk to Messe station, making access to the exhibition center super quick and easy. There are plenty of dining options nearby if you need a snack or drink before heading out. On-site, there's a cozy pub on the ground floor with great dark beer—definitely worth trying and a real highlight. The room was clean, comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Perfect for business travelers who want a reliable, no-frills stay with a touch of local charm. I’d definitely come back.

Staying at Hotel Ludwig Superior in Cologne was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a 3-minute walk from Cologne Central Station and the iconic Cologne Cathedral, making it super convenient for exploring the city. Despite being in a bustling area, the hotel itself feels peaceful and quiet, which was a nice surprise. The room was modern, clean, and well-equipped with comfortable bedding and quality toiletries. Breakfast was solid—not fancy, but varied enough to satisfy most tastes. What really stood out was the front desk staff offering free boarding pass printing—such a thoughtful touch that saved me time and hassle. Overall, this place delivers excellent value and comfort. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

Stayed at this hotel and was thoroughly impressed! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Cologne’s city center and within easy reach of the subway. I loved how quiet the area was, making it perfect for a restful night’s sleep. The room was spotless, comfortable, and well-designed, with a cozy seating nook and a small bar area—ideal for a relaxing drink after a day of exploring. Staff were friendly and efficient throughout our stay. Excellent value for money, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations. I’ll definitely be coming back.

This stay was absolutely fantastic! The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a cozy atmosphere that made it feel like home. Located just a short walk from the train station, getting around Cologne was incredibly convenient. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to help with tips on local attractions or transit options. Their warm hospitality really made the experience memorable. For travelers looking for a clean, central, and welcoming place to stay, this hostel is an excellent choice. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend it.

Staying at Hostel Die Wohngemeinschaft in Cologne was an absolute delight. The free coffee and tea available throughout the day were a fantastic touch—perfect for starting the morning right. I especially appreciated the complimentary ginger shots, which felt like a thoughtful wellness boost. With multiple bathrooms scattered across the property, there was never any wait time, even during peak hours. Every room comes equipped with a hair dryer, so no need to pack one. Clean, welcoming, and well-organized, this hostel offers great value for money. I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Cologne.

Our group of ninth graders had an absolutely wonderful stay at Hostel Köln. Everything we needed was available, and we truly felt at home. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful throughout our visit. Check-in and check-out went smoothly, and the location made it easy to explore the city by public transit. The basement lounge was a big hit with the students—it was spacious, comfortable, and perfect for hanging out late into the evening. They loved having a relaxed space to unwind after a long day. The hostel exceeded our expectations in every way. A definite recommendation for any school or youth group looking for a welcoming, well-organized, and affordable base in Cologne.

This hostel completely exceeded my expectations! Located just a short walk from Cologne Cathedral, it's perfectly situated right next to the Rhine River—waking up to the sound of water flowing by was absolutely peaceful. There’s even a small convenience store right across the street, making late-night snacks or essentials super easy. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. Staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay. With such an unbeatable location and excellent value, I’d definitely come back again. A top choice for anyone visiting Cologne!

Staying at Zur Guten Quelle was an absolute delight from start to finish. The historic building itself is breathtaking—its old-world charm radiates warmth and character the moment you step inside. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, with a generous bathroom that adds to the comfort. The hosts are incredibly welcoming and thoughtful, going out of their way to make you feel at home. Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, delicious, and served with such care that it felt like a special treat. It’s hard to beat the value here; the quality and price really shine. You don’t just stay at this place—you’re made to feel like a cherished guest from the very first hello. If you're in Cologne, this is not just a great choice—it's a must-visit. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Urban Loft Cologne was a fantastic experience. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—right next to the train station, making it super convenient for quick transfers or early morning departures. Everything was efficient and well-organized, from check-in to checkout. The room was clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious for the city center. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like good lighting and comfy bedding. It's clear the team cares about guest comfort. I’d definitely choose this hotel again on my next visit to Cologne—it’s a great value with a prime location. Highly recommend!

The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to accommodate special requests—truly a highlight of the stay. The rooms are clean and comfortable, though the showers could use a bit of modernization. The conference room is well-designed with top-notch equipment, making it ideal for meetings or study sessions. Coffee, tea, and homemade treats during breaks were plentiful and delicious. Breakfast was excellent, while lunch was simple but satisfying. What really stood out, though, was the thoughtful hospitality from the team—always smiling, always helpful. We’re already considering coming back for another study retreat. If you're looking for a quiet, well-organized space to focus and collaborate, this place delivers.

I'm a neighbor living just a few blocks away, and when my family came to visit, I offered them my apartment and stayed at the hotel for three nights. It was such a pleasant experience! The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment I arrived. The room was spotless—every corner sparkled with cleanliness, and everything felt fresh and well-maintained. Best of all, it was wonderfully quiet, which made for deep, restful sleep each night. The small self-service tea station in the room was a thoughtful touch—perfect for a quick cup of tea or coffee without leaving the room. Located just steps from Cologne Cathedral, it's super convenient for exploring the city on foot or by public transit. I’ve already started planning my next visit—it’s a gem of a place, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for comfort, cleanliness, and a warm, personal touch.
Explore more amazing destinations