NH Koeln Altstadt

Occupying a 2002-built block by the Rhine River, this hotel is a solid chain property for business and leisure travelers alike. While it isn't smack-dab in Cologne's center, most attractions can be reached on foot, or via nearby public transport. The lobby's wood floors, plum walls, and black-leather chairs have a generic business vibe, and predictable chain decor continues into the restaurant and bar areas, but these are bright from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking courtyard greenery. Terrace seating amid plants make for popular al fresco dining, and the restaurant's European cuisine is well-reviewed. The laid-back bar is appreciated, especially considering there aren't many nearby. With business or sightseeing agendas, guests generally spend their days out, although meeting facilities keep some on-site. 

The hotel's main road setting isn't the most attractive, but it's well-placed near Cologne's center, and walks along the River Rhine across the street make for scenic downtown routes. The famous Cologne Chocolate Museum is a block away. Allow 10-minute walks for Cologne's Old Town, and up to 20 minutes on foot for Cologne Cathedral, Museum Ludwig, and Cologne Central Train Station. Quaint alley streets and breweries at Heumarkt and Alter Markt are a 15-minute walk, while Schildergasse shopping street is three minutes closer. All destinations can be reached via bus/tram/metro from the nearest Severinstrasse stop, a six-minute walk. Cologne/Bonn Airport is a 12-minute drive, or 35 minutes by public transport.

Bland but well-appointed, business-like rooms have neutral decor consisting of beige walls and carpeting, dark-wood furniture, and crisp white bedding. Warm desert hues in the striped drapes and artwork add color, though they're dated. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with sports channels, desks with electrical outlets and office chairs, minibars, safes, and AC. Note that entry-level rooms lack tea- and coffee-making facilities, and some guests have complained of traffic noise. Upgraded Superior Rooms with black-leather seating areas have electric kettles, Nespresso machines, slippers, and robes. They also guarantee city or cathedral views, while alternative vistas overlook the road. White-tiled bathrooms with granite countertops are nothing fancy, but they're clean, outfitted with shower/tub combos, toiletries, hairdryers, and towels. Larger rooms can be fitted with cribs. In-room Wi-Fi is free but slow, and there's a fee to upgrade to a faster connection.

The clue is in the name at Mediterraneo Restaurant, where lunches and dinners are well-received,. Although a bit pricey for the area, buffet breakfasts offer bacon and eggs (these can be made-to-order), plus a rich continental spread. The restaurant's black booth seating overlooks the courtyard, and though uninspiring, the room is bright. Unico Bar has more character with its cream armchairs and semi-circular bar. It serves traditional Kolsch beers, plus soft drinks and alcoholic beverages starting in the late afternoon. Guests can drink and dine in the casually furnished central courtyard, where white umbrellas shade green chairs, although these are on the tired side. The limited wellness area has a sauna and steam room, and a 24-hour gym with only a few cardio machines and a photo mural of Italy's coast to make up for the lack of windows. Eight meeting rooms hold a total of 220 people. Secure underground parking is at a fee and it fills up fast. Basic-speed Wi-Fi is free throughout.