Ruby Ella Hotel Cologne

Sandwiched between Cologne’s old town and the arty Belgian Quarter, Ruby Ella makes a great base for both first-timers and frequent visitors. If it’s classic Cologne you’re after, the Altstadt is two tram stops away, where you’ll find the iconic cathedral, along with museums and galleries to catch up on culture. If shopping’s more your style, Schildergasse is a two-stop hop on the tram, and you’ll find everything from historic arcades to ultramodern malls for some serious retail therapy. When it’s time for a breather, hit the Belgian Quarter for the city’s best coffee or make a beeline for a Brauhaus, where Kölsch, the local tipple, is served up by the stein. Come dinner time, everything from street food to Michelin stars are a short walk or tram ride away. And afterwards, the friendly pubs, clubs and cocktail bars of Friesenplatz, Ehrenfeld and Hohenzollernring are within easy reach of your room. Friesenplatz station is right on Ella’s doorstep. From there, the city centre and main station are a three-minute tram ride, and the airport’s half an hour away.