Excelsior Hotel Ernst, Cologne

Perfect location! Very formal and stiff ... felt very much that staff were false awaiting tips.. did not give the same attention to customers if not dripping in gold and wearing designer outfits. Bar tariff expensive. Concierge over the top.. reception and door staff helpful and friendly moreso! Extensive choice for breakfast. Rooms very clean with turn dowm service offered every night of stay (quite intrusive) Remember to put do not disturb sign on door!

We just returned from a Christmas Rhine River Cruise ending in Cologne. We spent three days in this great hotel for Christmas. We had a full live tree in our suite - and many amenities that hotels charge extra for were included -- mini-bar, computer time, health spa, breakfast etc. The professionalism and courtesy was extrodinary --- and the hotel magnificently decorated for Chrismas. Highly recommended!

All public rooms have been renovated but some bedrooms have not been well appointed which can be disappointing if you pay a lot of money to stay there. Your experience will depend very much on which room you get. Breakfast buffet is fine, comparable to the local Sofitel and Hyatt. Location is practical, very close to the train station and Dom, though not on a very nice looking street/block.

My husband and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary here, and it'll be a trip to remember. The location of this hotel is literally a stones throw away from one of the most spectacular cathedrals in Germany, maybe even Europe. The service was impeccable, every time we left the room, a chambermaid would come in and straighten up. The breakfast was something you'd expect in a 5 star hotel, sterling silver, wonderful service. The price is somewhat steep, but worth it for those special occasions. Shopping is abundant around the hotel as the main shopping district is just across the street. The conceirge is humorous and very helpful and there's plenty of restaurants choices in the area. Overall, excellent place to visit!