I can always trust on the Fodorites to assist in finding lodging in Europe. My daughter is travelling to Cologne for the Confectionary trade show at the end of January. She would like to stay in a safe area, close to Dom, old town, yet easy access on train to trade fair. Any suggestions? 3* or 4* but less than euro 150 per night, also need hotel that has non-smoking rooms.
Thank you.

Hi Christa, I recently posted on some self contained accommodation that I booked in Cologne for my husband who was attending a conference there (see below), if you would like any more info I will help if I can. It would be way under your budget. (The website handles apartments from many different owners but I believe the owner of the one I booked told my husband if he wanted to stay again to email her direct and she would offer a further discount.)

"In Cologne I booked an apartment through Cologne B&B (who were also very helpful)
http://www.bbcologne.com/ "object no.1265"
When he actually checked in, the owner of the apartment met him there and was also extremely helpful with directions, advice etc. He was very impressed with this apartment and said it lacked absolutely nothing and was a short train ride to the Conference Centre he was attending."

I really like the Coellner Hof Hotel. It is a 5-10 minute walk from the Dom and really, just a lovely hotel with one of the best breakfast buffets that I have ever eaten. It has a wonderful old world charm about it, but also all the comforts, with large beds and bathrooms, beautiful decor and friendly staff. We have usually paid 75 euro for a double, but during a trade fair, it will most likely be higher.

http://www.coellnerhof.de/

As a former hotel manager, I found this hotel to be excellent.

You can also try www.hrs.de. You may enter "Cologne" as destination.

Every hotel in Cologne-Zentrum should be located well. If you click on the hotel name and then on "location", a map pops up. Anything within the "ring" (Hansaring, Hohenzollernring etc. - also marked as "B9") is in walkable distance to the Old Town and cathedral (marked "Dom" on the map). The main station with easy access to the trade fair ground is right next to the Dom.

Thanks to all for your suggestions. I will check them out. My daughter seems to be drawn to the Best Western Premier Regent but rates are high.

I`ve stayed at two hotels in Cologne: Breslauer Hof Hotel Am Dom and the Four Points (which are across the street from each other), and right by the train station (very convenient when wheeling your suitcase).

Breslauer Hof is good if you want a very friendly, pleasant, family-run (I think) 3* hotel. The staff will happily chat with you and are very friendly. Breakfast is included. The superior rooms are quite nice, and the regular rooms are fine, but a bit basic.

The Four Points is a business-oriented chain hotel, with a great breakfast buffet (although this costs extra), and normal, chain-hotel-style rooms.