6 of us stayed here the first weekend in June 2005. Very reasonable room rates for the quality of hotel (£30 per night each in a twin room). Great location for 6 guys out for a weekend in Cologne's Bars and cafes, just around the corner from the Alter Markt. Cheap minibar in room. Very clean. Pleasant and efficient staff.

Stayed in the Esser for a last minute weekend break. A rather austere, dull looking hotel from the outside. We stayed in a double room at the back of the hotel which overlooked a yard which seemed to shared by private flats surrounding the hotel. We were kept awake, (and complained) by some people across the way who seemed to be celebrating a birthday on the roof garden of a flat next door with very loud music, laughing and general noise! The room was small, but clean with a minibar with small bottles of water, beer and bars of chocolate (payable on departure)! We had a pleasant breakfast in the restaurant room which looked out onto a main road. I would recommed the Esser for a short stay - it being a short walk to the river Rhein and attractions of the city. The staff were very helpful and speak English very well!