Timeless elegance, tradition and innovation have characterized the Excelsior Hotel Ernst for more than 150 years. In 1863, Carl Ernst, who was known as the « Royal Court Restaurateur at the Central Station », built today’s Grand Hotel. To this day, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst is the only member of the Leading Hotels of the World in Cologne and a member of “Selektion Deutscher Luxushotels”. The hotel’s philosophy « Your individuality is our strength » is demonstrated with passion by its 180 employees.

High-quality materials, valuable furniture and accessories give all 136 rooms and suites their very own character and individual charm. Whether Grand, Superior and Deluxe Rooms, Excelsior, Junior and Executive Suites: guests can expect a private atmosphere at the highest level of comfort. Internet access – via the hotel’s own terminal or tablet – is free of charge as well as the drinks in the minibar. For sports and relaxation, the fitness area, sauna and steam bath are available to guests at all times.

Culinary delights at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst

In the Hanse Stube, Cologne residents and guests from all over the world enjoy innovative French cuisine with regional influences – developed by the team around Joschua Tepner. The gourmet restaurant has already received several awards for its excellent cuisine and first-class service. At lunchtime, the Hanse Stube also offers a varied business lunch. 

taku means « house of hospitality » in Japanese. The restaurant is awarded with a Michelin star, 8 of 10 pans in Gusto and 16 of 20 points in Gault&Millau. The fusion cuisine of chef Mirko Gaul and his team combines original food cultures with creative interpretations of East Asian high cuisine. Fabian Scheithe, Executive Pastry Chef at Excelsior Hotel Ernst, designs the desserts. The large selection of exquisite sake varieties, Asian beers and corresponding natural wines are matched by restaurant manager Christoph Gonzales with the individual menu of each guest. 

During the day, guests enjoy homemade patisserie from the Executive Pastry Chef Fabian Scheithe in the Piano Bar. In the evening, the bar team mix cocktail classics and own creations at the highest level, with live music on the piano to entertain the guests.

The winter garden and hotel lobby offer stylish and restrained design, comfortable lounges and discreet ambience for quiet conversations. Traditional British Afternoon tea is served on the gallery with a view of the cathedral – a selection of exquisite teas, hearty and sweet accompaniments in the British tradition. 

Celebrations and conferences at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst 

In a stylish ambience, eight event rooms – for up to 200 guests – and exclusive business suites offer a representative framework for business and private occasions. 

The in-house catering fulfills special culinary desires – whether at home or in private premises in the Rhineland. 

A special place, easy to reach and a haven of peace in the middle of town

In the middle of Cologne, directly at the Cologne Cathedral: the main train station and trade fair grounds are within easy walking distance. Opera, Philharmonic Hall and the many museums are only a short walk away. Luxurious boutiques and attractive shopping facilities are within proximity. The traditional breweries of Cologne, bars and cafés are only a few minutes’ walk away.