URBAN LOFT Cologne

The late checkout until 2pm worked perfectly for our afternoon flight. We had a lovely three-day stay: the room was neat and clean, and the temperature felt right for the season. The staff were friendly, and the hotel is close to the main station and Cologne Cathedral. Being able to walk to all the Christmas markets was a nice bonus.

The rooms are so small that working at the desk is awkward, and there’s barely any room to store a large suitcase or several bags. That makes this a poor fit for business travel, though it could suit a short leisure stay if you mostly want a stylish place to sleep. The Urban Loft Hotel has a youthful industrial look, with exposed concrete and a practical feel. It’s spotless, and the staff are friendly and informal. With the windows shut, the room is surprisingly quiet, though neighbors slamming doors can break that calm. There’s no kettle in the room since hot drinks are meant to be had at the bar. Breakfast is decent and has vegan options.

We’ve stayed here on business with colleagues both last year and this year. It’s a cozy, central spot, close to Domplatz and the Rhein river, and works well as a base for sightseeing at any hour. The lobby books and coffee are great, and the staff are friendly and helpful. There’s parking beneath the hotel if you have a rental car.

The downstairs co-working space is a great bonus, and the Köln railway station is barely a five-minute walk away. We had a wonderful stay. The property and rooms were very clean, and the staff were warm and helpful.