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Nestled among the church spires of Cologne, Germany, not far from the Rhine River, stands the exemplary Excelsior Hotel Ernst. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this historic hotel, one of only a few buildings in these parts to survive World War II, has been part of the cityscape for nearly 140 years. Its luxurious rooms and excellent service have earned it both a loyal following and flawless reputation, as well as inclusion in Conde Nast Travelerâ€(TM)s Gold List.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Trankgasse 1-5, Domplatz
Cologne, Germany
P50667
Nearest Airport: CGN
We were so excited to come to what we hoped would be a really luxurious stay as the price matched that. I have given it 3 stars against what a 5* hotel would be, this would be a good 4*. To start with positives, the room was lovely with nice linens and comfy bed. Very clean and good size bathroom albeit with a narrow high tub you had to climb into for the shower - hard if not tall and on your own. The Italian lady in the bar was charming excellent service from her, the best we encountered. Breakfast was all you would expect although coffee not good and you need it included in your rate as completely over priced. The breakfast hostess was also charming. The annoyances came with the miscommunication between housekeeping and reception. We had to ask for things several times and things were not replaced for example crockery, tea bags and shower caps. Yes little annoyances but when they happen each time you come back to the room it grates. We took out an umbrella but upon opening it later found it was full of holes - there was no apology when we later returned it and pointed that out. The worst thing is that the hotel allows guests to smoke within their roped cordon at the front door and then drop butts on the floor and take their glasses outside - giving the first impression of a hostel rather than a 5* hotel. It means the lobby smelt of cigarette smoke rather than luxury. When we brought it up we met a rather defensive well in Germany people can smoke outside, well they can in the UK too but a 5* hotel would offer guests a smoking area that was not on the carpeted front door and not allow guests to take drinks there as if it was a pub. This is not a leading hotel of the world - it could be though - so it is a shame. We have stayed in other 5*s and this just falls short.
JonesEngland - England
Hotel and staff were amazing. Staff went over and beyond on every request. Wonderful place to stay in Cologne.
John M - Charleston, South Carolina
Wonderful First Class Experience . Professionalism , Attention , follow up . One of the best Hotels we've stayed in .
Tarek j
We had a wonderful one night stay at the hotel, from beginning to end. It was important for us to have good late night food option as we arrived late by train and the piano bar was perfect, great food, environments and drinks.
ECD2 - Los Angeles, California
The Excelsior Hotel Ernst is one of the nicest hotels I have ever stayed in and also one of the most luxurious experiences I have ever had. The room was thoughtfully appointed with every detail attended to, including a bottle opener and glass for your water at night and the flat pillows and washcloths I requested ahead of time. The included steam room, sauna, amenities, minibar and breakfast all contributed to a very luxurious treat for us!
Adrienne M
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