Since 1863 the Excelsior Hotel Ernst has been one of the leading upscale hotels in the region. This five-star hotel is in the center of the city and is an ideal starting point for exploring Cologne. It has stylishly decorated rooms and suites that offer comfort and elegance. Relax and unwind at the hotel's sauna or work out at the fitness center. There are also excellent on-site restaurants. If you're not prepared to give up luxury on your travels, then Excelsior Hotel Ernst is the place for you!

The Hänneschen Theater can be found in the middle of the Altstadt. A prominent puppet theater, here, the puppets are the stars (along with the puppeteers of course). Operating since 1802, this has not only been a children's theater, but has also presented various contemporary performances, such as an amusing piece depicting the rivalry between Cologne and Dusseldorf's football clubs. Very unique, creative and innovative, this is one theater in Cologne which is perfect for all ages.

The Kölner Opernhaus is located in Germany's largest theater complex, along with the Schauspielhaus, the Yakult-Halle, and the West-End Theater. The repertoire is varied, with classic works from Verdi, Mozart and Händel, as well as more modern works. With a highly rated orchestra and famous directors and singers, this is one of the best opera houses in Germany. Ballet from international dance groups, such as the Nederlands Dans Theater, are often featured here. The balconies and stalls provide seating for 1,320 people. Another feature: the operas are subtitled - the German translation of an Italian opera, for example, is displayed above the stage. Kinderoper presents opera for young people.

Located in an impressive building, Imhoff Chocolate Museum is a fantastic museum where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate mainly from the time of ancient Maya and Aztec cultures. Visitors are taken through the history of cocoa beans from various countries, the crushing and processing of the beans and finally the main product. Visitors also get to sample these sweet treats which are simply tasty and delightful. There is a grand cafe and a lovely chocolate shop where visitors can sample various chocolate delights and even purchase some.

The splendid Hotel Pullman Cologne is located on Helenenstraße, in the Belgian Quarter. Spread over 12 floors, the hotel features 275 well-appointed, tastefully decorated rooms and a range of services and facilities that come second to none in the city. While facilities like a fully-equipped business center, conference and meeting rooms, high speed internet and such are quite conducive for convenient business stays; the on-site well-equipped fitness club, the golf course, the spa, sauna and hammam serve brilliantly for recreational purposes. With child-care facilities on board, Hotel Pullman suits family stays as well. Numerous dining options are available on site – GeorgeM., La Vinoteca and the E.L.F Bar cater too varied tastes of all the guest putting up at Hotel Pullman.

The Agrippa Bad, some of whose walls are under a heritage preservation order is a great swimming pool. The pool is situated in a central location and combines open air and indoor pools, and is also suitable for disabled people. Visitors can use the ten meter high tower, a 25-meter stainless steel pool as well as the four-season pool with massage water nozzles and a huge 127 meter long slide. In addition, a wave making facility in the 25 meter pool should give some visitors pleasure. A raised platform in the pool can be used for aqua jogging and baby swimming sessions. There is also a wellness and fitness center, a health center with a Kneipp cure section, hay and mudbaths as well as a massage and cosmetics department. This multi-faceted range on offer is complemented by a whirlpool, cold water and sea water pools, sauna with a roof garden which makes a wonderful view over the whole of Cologne possible, as well as by a bistro and restaurant.

Will Daume, who in 1972 was President of the National Olympic Committee to Germany during the Munich Olympics, laid the initial groundwork for the creation of this museum. The doors didn't open to the public until November 1999. Visitors can celebrate the favorite past times of a nation, and it comes as no surprise to see more than just a little attention paid to soccer here. Exhibits blend history, culture, communication, and more allow visitors a wide range of experiences. Be sure to see their permanent exhibit, a "memory box" with some choice scenes from sports history.

The Metropolis is by far the best place in Cologne for English-speaking film lovers. The films are nearly always shown in the original version.They may be played with or without subtitles. However, the selection is always varied, current and the audio-visual quality is excellent. The Metropolis also shows classic and new children's films during the day besides the blockbuster films. Metropolis also hosts a children's film festival, that is extremely popular with kids of all ages.

Nestled by the riverside in Altstadt Sud, Hotel Novotel Cologne City is an elegant accommodation option. Part of the worldwide hotel chain, it will impress you with its world-class service and warm hospitality. This hotel houses more than 200 rooms that are elegantly decorated with cozy furnishings and modern amenities that assure a comfortable stay for the guests. Even your little ones are sure to have fun here as there is a special play area for kids where they can indulge in leisure activities. A family-friendly hotel, Hotel Novotel Cologne City allows your furry friend to accompany you on your vacation to Cologne. Give a healthy start to your day by hitting the on-site gym in the morning. After an exciting day of touring the city, dine in at the in-house restaurant that is known for serving enticing Mediterranean delicacies before calling it a night. Whether you are on a business trip or a fun vacation, you are sure to have a memorable stay at Hotel Novotel Cologne City.

Opened in 1998, the Lanxess Arena is an impressive modern indoor arena that hosts everything from sports to concerts. Lanxess Arena is known as the home for Cologne's ice hockey team, the Kölner Haie. Due to the arena's size and state-of-the-art sound and visual systems, Lanxess Arena also hosts concerts and shows. Additionally, the arena hosts other events like Disney on Ice. A tour of the arena is available.

The Cologne Zoological Garden, also called the Kölner Zoo, is Germany's third oldest zoo and remains one of the city's top attractions. It was founded in 1860 and the elephant house was the first building to be opened. Over the years, the zoo has grown in size and is well known for its conservation efforts. You'll discover animals from around the world, including Big Cats and primates. Make sure you check out its great exhibits like the elephant park, the aquarium and the Rainforest Hall.

Opened in 1957, the Cologne Cable Car (Kölner Seilbahn) is the first of its kind in the continent to cross a river. Take a trip on it and enjoy a panoramic view of Cologne as you travel across the Rhine. The picturesque landscape will make you fall in love with this beautiful city in no time. The cable cars are operational only during the summer. The night tours allow visitors to enjoy stunning views of the illuminated city. Located near the Cologne Zoological Garden in the west of the city, the Cologne Cable Car is the best way to explore Cologne with a higher perspective.