Excelsior Hotel Ernst
The grand hotel with heart and soul
DIRECT BOOKING BENEFITS
BENEFITS OF DIRECT BOOKING
If you book directly via our website, you'll enjoy a whole range of benefits:
- Flexible cancellation & rebooking conditions
- Price advantage over online and travel portals
- Personal contact person
- Access to exclusive offers
FOR GUESTS WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS
5-STAR LUXURY HOTEL NEXT TO COLOGNE CATHEDRAL
For over 160 years, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst has been welcoming guests through its doors right opposite Cologne Cathedral, in the heart of Cologne’s Old Town. And in this house of grand tradition, we appreciate guests who come with the highest expectations. Expectations of us, of their stay in Cologne, and of our culinary offer. We are a Grand Hotel with heart and soul.
Host with heart and soul
GASTRONOMIC OFFER AT THE EXCELSIOR
From French haute cuisine in the Hanse Stube, to award-winning East-Asian-inspired creations at taku, to gorgeous patisserie and afternoon tea in the Wintergarten, and wine and cocktails in the Charles Bar… fine dining and good service are all part of the experience at Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Hanse Stube
French gourmet restaurant with a Rhineland twist
TAKU
East Asian inspired Michelin starred restaurant
Wintergarten
PATISSERIE, TEA-ROOM, DRINKS & FINE FOOD
Charles Bar
Champagne, wine, cocktails and cigar lounge with live music
Old Town Cologne
Evening tour
Philharmony Cologne
Museum Ludwig Cologne
Conference and event rooms
IN THE HEART OF COLOGNE
Our story
GRAND HOTEL SINCE 1863
Follow us on Instagram
@Excelsiorhotelernst
FAQs
What makes the Excelsior Hotel Ernst so special?
The Excelsior Hotel Ernst is Cologne’s only 5-star grand hotel located directly next to Cologne Cathedral. For over 160 years we have been welcoming guests from around the world with a passion for hospitality, an unrivalled location, elegant ambience, award-winning dining and personal service that leaves nothing to be desired. As the only member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Cologne, it sets the standard for luxury hospitality in the Cathedral City.
Where is the Excelsior Hotel Ernst located?
The hotel is located at Trankgasse 1-5, 50667 Cologne directly next to Cologne Cathedral and just a few minutes’ walk from the main railway station and the Rhine – in the heart of Cologne’s city centre.
What rooms and suites does the hotel offer?
The hotel features elegant rooms and luxurious suites with premium furnishings, stylish design and, in some cases, direct views of Cologne Cathedral.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 3:00 PM; check-out is until 12:00 PM. If you arrive earlier or would like to stay a little longer, please do not hesitate to contact us. Early check-in and late check-out are available subject to availability for an additional charge.
Are there restaurants in the hotel?
Yes, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst offers two outstanding restaurants and one bar, including the Asian-inspired Michelin-starred restaurant taku and the classic Hanse Stube.
What awards does the hotel hold?
The hotel is a member of the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World and the Selektion Deutscher Luxushotels. It is also part of the Virtuoso network and the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts programme. The Excelsior Hotel Ernst has received multiple honours in the “Die 101 Besten” ranking as well as the winner in the ‘Luxury City Palais of the Year 2026’ category.
What are the benefits of booking directly on the website?
Guests who book directly via excelsiorhotelernst.com benefit from flexible cancellation conditions, a price advantage over booking portals, direct contact with our dedicated hotel team, and access to exclusive offers and packages.
Does the hotel offer gift vouchers?
Yes, vouchers for hotel stays, restaurant visits, events and more can be purchased via our online shop – the perfect gift for any special occasion.