The Savoy is one of Cologne's cheapest ***** hotels. It is situated in one of the worst parts of downtown, behind the railway station, which combines red light areas, heavy construction sites, and, well, otherwise dangerous quarters as well. But it is more easily accessible by car than almost all others, it has some nice views, and it is 5-7 mins. on foot from the train station. It is a non-tourist area, which has its advantages for small shopping, cheap restaurants, etc. In less than 10 mins., you are on foot at the Ringe. The Golden Chamber of St. Ursula, where the wall is decorated with gilt wood and the bones of some of the 11,000 martyred virgins and other saints, is 5 minutes away.
The Savoy is heavily decorated, generally in a very gaudy, colorful way, but this is fun. Indian and Chinese rooms feel like (nice) decorated restaurants, or movie sets. The breakfast room is now a dream in silver lamé and much, much purple, mostly taffeta and velvet. If you want minimalism, this is not the place for you - then stay at the Hilton or the Interconti, or - cheaper - the Lint.
Breakfast is good, service is very nice; there is a fancy, well-renowned spa, but this is very expensive (normal treatments from ~ $300) and not included, and it doesn't have a pool. The restaurant and its bar are, not surprisingly, favorites of the media people in Cologne, and many a visiting soap star or singer stays here.
- Savoy Hotel Cologne
