Cologne's Oldtown, Memorials and the Gürzenich

In Cologne's Old Town, you can really experience and enjoy the typical Kölsche way of life. The old town is characterised by its many small and rustic pubs, where you can taste a freshly cut Kölsch and a "Halven Hahn" at almost any time of the day.

If you stroll along the Rhine promenade you have a wonderful view of the Rhine itself (naturally) and the Hohenzollern Bridge, from here you can also see the cathedral spires.

On the Hohenzollern Bridge you will discover lots of castles engraved with names and dates. In Cologne, it has become a tradition that couples which are in love attach a castle to the bridge and throw the key into the Rhine. This is to be a sign of their infinite love.

You will also find equestrian monuments on the Hohenzollern Bridge, on the right side of the Rhine for the last emperor of Germany Wilhelm II. and on the left side for Emperor Friedrich III. Another monument is also located on the Heumarkt, which is very close to our hotel. It is dedicated to the King of Prussia Wilhelm III.

The Heumarkt and the Alter Markt used to be a large marketplace in the Middle Ages, but over time it was divided into two squares. Even back then, there were innumerable guild houses in the two squares, and even today is there a hugh number of pubs, cafés and restaurants.

You can also see the historical city hall of Cologne on the Alter Markt. From here, walk back towards the hotel and you will come along a late Gothic building. This is the Gürzenich, today a popular venue for events.

The old town is home to many more sights, such as the "Heinzelmännchenbrunnen". His legend tells us that in the past, little dwarfs used to do the work of lazy people at night.

If you would like to find out more about the Old Town, just ask at our reception. Since our house is located in the old town of Cologne, you only have to step one foot in front of the door to explore it.