Hotel Boulevard  

In Cologne's buzzing MediaPark district, a short walk from MediaPark and about 4 minutes on foot to the park and 8 minutes to Friesenplatz. This city-center, family-friendly hotel sits minutes from Cologne Cathedral, St. Gereon's Basilica, Stadtgarten and the central station. Cologne-Bonn Airport is roughly a 15-minute transfer away.

Compact and modern with 27 guestrooms (plus one apartment) across seven floors, many rooms were renovated in December 2015. Expect pillowtop beds with premium bedding, LCD televisions, minibars, in-room safes and private bathrooms with hair dryers and complimentary toiletries. Several rooms feature balconies/terraces for quick city views. The lobby buzzes with a 24-hour reception, lift and a café—an edgy, convenient base for exploring the ring and nightlife nearby.

Bar/lounge, café and an on-site restaurant with a non-smoking area keep things easy. Buffet breakfasts are served (weekday and weekend times vary) and limited room service is available. Concierge and tour desk, laundry/dry cleaning, bicycle storage and a hotel garage/self-parking are on site. Wireless internet access and a public internet terminal keep you connected; babysitting/childcare options underscore the family-friendly vibe.

A small business center supports work on the go, while express check-in and express check-out speed your schedule. Self-parking (charges may apply) and concierge services round out practical needs for business travelers.

Start with a buffet breakfast (weekday and weekend hours differ) and grab drinks at the bar/lounge after a day in the city. The café and restaurant serve easy, international fare and room service is available during limited hours—perfect for late arrivals after shows or meetings.