Finding Accommodation in Germany: Best Areas, Hotels & Christmas Market Bases

Finding the right place to stay in Germany can make a big difference to your trip, especially if you’re travelling by train and want easy access to major attractions.

In this guide, we focus on the best areas to stay in cities like Cologne, Nuremberg, and Munich, along with the types of accommodation that work well for comfortable, stress-free travel.

Germany combines rich history, walkable cities and excellent transport with plenty of creature comforts—especially if you choose your base and neighbourhoods carefully. We’ve stayed in Cologne, Nuremberg and Munich which gives you a nice cross‑section of the country: riverside Gothic, medieval‑walled charm and classic Bavarian atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Germany: Quick Summary

Best cities: Cologne, Nuremberg, Munich
Best areas: Near old town (Altstadt) or main train station
Ideal stay: 2–4 nights per city
Accommodation types: Mid-range hotels, design hotels, guesthouses
Cost range: €90–€220+ depending on comfort level
Best time: Christmas markets (book early) or shoulder seasons
Key tip: Stay central to maximise walkability and transport access

Who This Germany Accommodation Guide Is For

This Germany page is aimed at travellers who:

Prefer private rooms over hostels and party dorms
Want central, walkable locations with easy access to trains and public transport
Are interested in history (including WW2) and culture, but still value comfort
May be visiting in winter for the Christmas markets or in warmer months for city breaks

Germany is very manageable for first‑time visitors: cities are well‑signed, public transit is excellent, and mid‑range accommodation is generally reliable and well maintained.

Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Germany for First-Time Visitors?

For most first-time visitors, staying in central areas of major cities like Cologne, Nuremberg, or Munich offers the best balance of convenience, atmosphere, and transport access.

Locations near the Altstadt (old town) or close to main train stations make it easy to explore on foot while still having access to excellent public transport. These areas also place you close to key attractions, restaurants, and Christmas markets during the winter season.

The best choice is usually a central, walkable location rather than the cheapest option further out.

Best Types of Accommodation in Germany (If You Don’t Want Dorms)

City Hotels

In most German cities, a standard, well‑reviewed 3★–4★ hotel will give you:

Clean, compact rooms with good heating and usually air‑conditioning (though not always in older buildings)
Reliable Wi‑Fi, soundproofing and often breakfast buffets
Walkable access to the Altstadt (old town) or main attractions

Big chains and well‑known local brands are a safe bet if you want predictability.

Design & Budget-Design Hotels

Germany does “budget‑design” very well:

Think stylish lobbies, good beds and small but smart rooms
Often located close to train stations or tram stops
Great if you want something modern and functional rather than luxurious

Guesthouses & Smaller Family-Run Hotels

In many cities and smaller towns, you’ll also find:

Pensions and family‑run hotels (a Pension is a small, guesthouse‑style accommodation that sits somewhere between a B&B and a simple hotel, with a cosy, local feel.)
Slightly older interiors, but very welcoming
Often with hearty breakfasts and a more personal feel

Apartments & Aparthotels

In bigger cities like Munich, Berlin or Cologne:

Apartments and aparthotels can be a good choice for longer stays, extra space and self‑catering
Always check reviews for noise, check‑in process and heating/AC, especially in historic buildings.

Tip: Accommodation prices can vary hugely depending on travel dates. Before booking, see how we use Booking.com’s calendar tool to find cheaper hotel deals and reduce travel costs:
https://trustytraveltips.com/find-cheaper-hotel-deals-booking-com/

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Cologne

Location: Close to Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), the Rhine promenade and the main train station, this kind of base is ideal for exploring on foot.
Feel: Central hotels here are perfect for travellers who want to be able to stroll to the cathedral, museums, riverside paths and Christmas markets without relying too much on transport.
A small, cosy hotel and good for 1 or 2 nights. The rooms are clean but small.

Check prices & Availability >

Our Rating 7/10

Motel One Nürnberg-City

Nuremberg

Location: Close to the main station and within walking distance or a short ride to the Altstadt (old town), with its medieval walls, churches and market square.
Feel: Budget‑design hotels like Motel One offer modern rooms and consistent standards—ideal if you’re combining sightseeing with easy rail travel.
Excellent mid-range hotel. Very good bar and restaurant and the rooms were clean but a little on the small side.

Check prices & Availability >

Our Rating 8.0/10

Hotel Pension Margit

Munich

Location: Typically, hotels like this sit within reach of the Hauptbahnhof (main station) and the Altstadt, making it easy to walk or hop on the U‑Bahn (metro).
Feel: A more personal, family‑run style compared with big chains.
Not bad for a mid-range hotel. Good-sized room and breakfast was very good. Very close to the train station. Plenty of hotels in this area to choose from so we probably would try somewhere different.

Check prices & Availability >

Our Rating 7.0/10

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Stay in Germany

Finding accommodation in Germany is generally straightforward, but choosing the right location and style of stay can make a big difference to how enjoyable your trip feels.

By focusing on central, walkable areas and selecting accommodation that matches your travel style, you can make getting around easier while still enjoying comfort and convenience.

Whether you’re visiting for Christmas markets, city breaks, or a longer itinerary, a well-chosen base will help you get more out of your time in Germany.

See Our Videos On Germany including Cologne, Nuremberg and Munich

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Our Best Booking Resources

Below are our go-to sites for planning trips.

Cruises – Vacations To Go is a discount cruise marketplace offering expert agents, comprehensive itineraries, last-minute deals, and easy booking worldwide online.

Skyscanner — Our favourite flight search engine, especially for finding budget carriers and smaller sites others miss.
Booking.com — The most reliable all-around hotel and budget stay finder, often with the lowest rates and huge inventory.
GetYourGuide — A massive marketplace for tours and activities (walking tours, day trips, classes, and more).
World Nomads — Flexible travel insurance designed for travellers and adventure activities.
Wise Travel Card — Low-fee international spending and transfers with great exchange rates; perfect for multi-currency trips.
Sixt — Reliable car rentals with a broad fleet; handy for Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley trips from Melbourne.

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Trusty Travel Tips

Finding Accommodation in Germany: Best Areas, Hotels & Christmas Market Bases

Where to Stay in Germany: Quick Summary

Table of Contents

Who This Germany Accommodation Guide Is For

Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Germany for First-Time Visitors?