Altstadthotel und Apartments Hayk - Cologne, Germany 

Good value for the excellent location, but could be problematic
Posted: Mon, Jul 31 2006
We chose this lodging for one reason -- it was close the K-D Dock. It was also close to all parts of the Old City; with the Dom and the Main Train Station ("Hauptbahnhof") a fifteen minute walk away. The room was clean and surprisingly quiet; with two single beds, TV, private WC and shower, and good breakfast buffet included in the 80E price. Reservation was made through Germany-Bookings.Com with no problems. Staff was friendly and professional. Some potential difficulties: 1) only six rooms at this hotel, two on each of the three floors. 2) there is no elevator. 3) there is nobody at the front desk after about 19:00. If you arrive after that, even with a reservation, you have to meet with the bartender at the adjacent bar. 4) breakfast is no earlier than 7:30. 5) the front door is locked after the clerk leaves. If you forget your front door key (as I did as I left to wander the city without my spouse), you'll have to shout up to your window to get back in. 6) there is presently no easy way to get from the riverfront to the Hbf other than walking. If you have a lot of luggage and need to get to the train station, it will be difficult.