Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen

Hotel with free breakfast, near Cologne Cathedral

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Photo gallery for Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen

Free daily buffet breakfast
Exterior
Lobby lounge
Hallway
Economy Single Room, 1 Twin Bed | Hypo-allergenic bedding, in-room safe, desk, free cribs/infant beds

Reviews

6.6 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

View in a map
Mathiasstrasse 21, Cologne, NW, 50676
  • Place, Chocolate Museum
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Hay Market
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Cologne Cathedral
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Airport, Cologne (CGN-Cologne - Bonn)
    ‪19 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Double Room Single Use

  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Beds

Standard Double Room

  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds

Economy Single Room, 1 Twin Bed

  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Double Room Single Use, 1 Queen Bed

  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Queen Bed

Double Room, 1 Queen Bed

  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Family Quadruple Room

  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Beds

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About the neighborhood

Cologne

Located in Old Town Cologne within a 5-minute walk of Hay Market, Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen is within a 15-minute stroll of Cologne Cathedral. This 38-room hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk.

What's nearby

  • Chocolate Museum - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Hay Market - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Old Market - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Neumarkt - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Cologne Cathedral - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

  • Heumarkt U-Bahn - 4 min walk
  • Cologne (QKL-Cologne Central Train Station) - 14 min walk
  • Cologne - Bonn Airport (CGN) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hafenterrasse - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Takezo Ramen Bar - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Krua Thai - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Hotel Lyskirchen - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Amadeus - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen

Hotel with free breakfast, near Cologne Cathedral
Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen features free WiFi in public areas and a vending machine. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with luggage storage and securing valuables.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and TVs with cable channels. Safes, desks, and free toiletries are also standard.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Offsite parking available (EUR 22 per day)

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast available 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM on weekdays and 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM on weekends

Family friendly

  • In-room crib

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Accessibility

  • Elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 5 floors
  • Built in 1264
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Free crib
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV with cable channels

More

  • Desk
  • Heating
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in fee: EUR 15.00
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: EUR 15.00

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for EUR 25 per pet, per night
  • Dogs only
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 4 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • An effective city/local tax rate of 5.35 percent will be charged

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Nearby parking fee: EUR 22 per day (1148 ft away)
  • Pet fee: EUR 25 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in fee: EUR 15.00 (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out fee: EUR 15.00 (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Altstadt Köln
Köln Novum Hotel
Novum Ahl Meerkatzen Köln Altstadt
Novum Ahl Meerkatzen Köln Altstadt Cologne
Novum Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Köln Altstadt
Novum Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Köln Altstadt Cologne
Novum Hotel Köln
Novum Hotel Köln Altstadt
Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Hotel
Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Cologne
Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Hotel Cologne
Novum Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Köln Altstadt

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen provides free cancellation on select room rates. For specific requirements, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

As of Dec 30, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen on Jan 4, 2026 start from $68.32, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see close to Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

This hotel is situated in Old Town Cologne within a 10-minute walk of Hay Market, Old Market, and Chocolate Museum. You'll also find Cologne Cathedral and LANXESS Arena within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

No, this hotel doesn't offer parking.

Does Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen include a casino?

No, Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

Amenities at this hotel that appeal to couples include free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.

Are there hot tubs at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen offers free buffet breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen for a fee of EUR 25 per pet, per night.

Does Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen have connecting rooms?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

The closest major airport to Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen is Cologne - Bonn Airport (CGN), which is 8.8 mi away (12 minutes by car). Another top airport is Düsseldorf Intl. Airport (DUS), which is around 25.3 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen?

No, at Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

Hotel Ahl Meerkatzen Reviews

Reviews

6.6
Rating 10 - Excellent. 150 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 319 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 306 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 131 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 94 out of 1000 reviews

7.0/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.2/10

Amenities

6.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Solange

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was very sweet and welcoming. Very positive attitude despite the people checking in, in front of us being very difficult. No letting it out on others just very patient and friendly and professional. Wish I could have gotten her name to give the best word on her. Carpet is a little worn as well as some smudges on the walls here and there but you could tell it was from natural wear and tear. Otherwise everything was impeccably clean and the breakfast was very neat and filling. Would gladly stay here again. It was super convenient and walking distance from public transportation and cathedral was a 15 minute walk and you could stroll through the shopping strip or the old square on the way.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angelika

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Breakfast was very nice!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Jason Anthony

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Delena

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Jonathan

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
There was no A/C in the room and you couldn't open the window. Also the bathroom was so small i couldn't of used the toilet
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

As we need

Just spend a night. As we expected, the generous free breakfast is beyond. Very old but bed is clean. Good for budget travelers
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovley little

Great little hotel, lots of character Breakfast was lovley. Great location, in walking distance of everything
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Richard

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unknown to us, the bed was infested with bed bugs. Completely ruined our stay in Cologne. Although the reception staff were very sympathetic, the manager/owner could not care less about our grievance.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

We strongly suspect guilty of double booking

We did not actually manage to stay at this hotel. We emailed the day before to warn them our flight would not arrive until late evening and ask about local parking, plus advice on where we might be able to eat late at night but did not receive a response. On arrival, we were told that a guest had caused damage to our room, so it was no longer available. When we tried to find out just what the problem was, the receptionist was very vague, so we very much got the impression, given that it was a very busy weekend, that the hotel had allocated our room to other guests. He acknowledged that my email had been received. He said the hotel had tried to contact us to tell us our room wasn't available but I found no record of a missed call/text/email. The hotel had rebooked us into their 'sister' hotel, a Holiday Inn, but that was in a suburb a long way from the city centre. We had specifically chosen the Ahl Meerkatzen because it was in the old city, so we would be able to meet local friends nearby and find somewhere to eat & drink until late at night. By the time we got to the Holiday Inn, everywhere in that area was closed, which ruined the beginning of our weekend stay, as we had also arranged to meet friends at the hotel for breakfast the following morning. When we complained to the hotel, they were unsympathetic, taking the attitude that they had found us alternative accommodation and did not offer us either adequate compensation or a complimentary night's stay for a future trip.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Lloyd

Traveled with family

Modest accommodations

Property photos look much nicer than actual hotel. Hotel felt more like a nice hostel. Located next to exotic shops and cinema. Nice weather during my stay so not having air conditioning was not too big of an issue. Restroom plumbing had a poor smell. Accommodations worked but I think it is overpriced for what you get.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Mohamed

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Staff & service
Great staff Good value for money
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Ryan

Traveled with group
Disliked: Staff & service
You get what you pay for our room was clean very basic. Beds where comfy maid came in every day. Breakfast ok nothing special. The guy serving breakfast is the rudest most miserable man ive come accross think he needs to retire. Basil Faulty we called him. If you have not got a sense of humour or easily offended perhaps the area the Hotel in is not for you. There some dodgy looking people about if you return to your hotel after midnight but to be honest no hassle we just laughed. Hotel reception staff very helpful
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Isabelle

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really cute accommodation with old-style decor. Facilities are good and the staff are nice. The buffet breakfast has a lot of options which is great!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Conor

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very good location. Very friendly and helpful in hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jan Kelvin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Historical Hotel: 5-star

I love the medieval vibes of the hotel, and upon research, the hotel has been in service since the 12th century. I love the location and its proximity to public transport and tourist attractions. The staff were also lovely.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

4/10 Poor

Bailey

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

james

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Hotel room was basic but clean and with a free breakfast very good value for money.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Mrs Brenda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
We had a comfortable stay the room was clean, the bed was comfortable, unfortunately the carpet was very grubby. The staff were very helpful
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Fran

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Close to the centre. Helpful staff. Clean room. Could leave our cases there after checkout. Be aware there is a sex shop next door.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Not bad, would stay again if price was right.

Only one lady with light coloured hair and a guy was friendly, the other 3 ladys i met behind reception were very arrogant and not welcoming. Rooms were dated but fine to sleep in! Hotel itself is quite nice. The breakfast was ok not great needs more options.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Muhit

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025