Hotel Merian

Basic and a little dated, but clean enough, with very polite staff. Being right by the train station was useful, and it’s decent if you just need somewhere to sleep nearby. There’s an absolutely superb Chinese restaurant around the corner, Tang Wang.

I had arranged a late checkout but was woken several times. Staff even argued with me about the checkout time, then apologised later. They don’t speak English. The room was dirty and depressing. A terrible experience.

What stood out most was how kind the staff were, especially Joe. After I left, I realised I’d forgotten a plug adaptor with sentimental value in my room. The hotel found it and went out of its way to post it back to me without asking for reimbursement. I really appreciated that generosity and service. Hotel Merian Köln is just a short walk from the main train station and the cathedral. There’s a busy road beside the building, but with the window shut I couldn’t hear any noise. I had a very good stay and would highly recommend it as a friendly, convenient base in central Cologne.

It’s right beside the railway station, which makes the location very convenient. Solo travellers who’d rather avoid hostels can book a private single room at an affordable price.