Cologne 101: A-Partment Basic's Guide To Fragrance

Cologne is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history, buzzing galleries, and a booming contemporary arts scene. It is known for its nightlife, including its famous Kolsh lager and doner kebabs. The city has a mix of old and new, with cobblestone medieval streets and modern cafes and bars.

There are many options for accommodation in Cologne, from furnished and unfurnished apartments to houses and rooms for rent. The city has various districts, each with its own unique feel and vibe, so there is something for everyone. The Innenstadt (or Ring) is the city's vibrant historical heart, with bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as the famous Dom Cathedral. Ehrenfeld is a liberal and artsy area, with a mix of young creatives and artists, cafes and bars. Nippes offers trendy bars and cafes, as well as parks, and is sought-after due to its proximity to the inner ring.

Cologne's diverse neighbourhoods

Cologne is a diverse and vibrant city, with a range of neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique character and attractions. Here is an overview of some of the most notable neighbourhoods in Cologne:

Altstadt/Heumarkt

The Altstadt, or 'old town', is Cologne's historic city centre, located on the western banks of the Rhine. This neighbourhood is dominated by the city's iconic cathedral and offers a mix of ancient streets, museums, breweries and traditional houses. It is a busy and pricey area, popular with tourists, but also offers excellent transport links and a vibrant atmosphere.

Neumarkt

Neumarkt is a tiny area within the Altstadt, known as the 'innenstadt' or 'downtown'. This bustling hub is packed with diverse restaurants, shops and tourists. While it may be ideal for short-term stays, the high volume of tourists may become tiresome for long-term residents.

Rodenkirchen

Rodenkirchen is one of Cologne's biggest districts, located south of the Altstadt. It is a quiet, residential area, popular with families due to its spacious homes, green spaces and excellent schools. It offers a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle, with easy access to the city centre.

Chlodwigplatz

Chlodwigplatz is a small but lively neighbourhood, sandwiched between Rodenkirchen and the Altstadt. It offers a mix of dining and entertainment options, with a young population and a laid-back vibe. It is also close to the Volksgarten, one of Cologne's best parks.

Lindenthal

Lindenthal is a diverse neighbourhood, home to the University of Cologne, making it popular with students. It offers affordable housing, a vibrant cafe culture, and plenty of green spaces. It is also conveniently located within walking distance of the city centre.

Ehrenfeld

Ehrenfeld is Cologne's equivalent of Berlin's Kreuzberg, known for its hip and trendy atmosphere. It attracts students, hipsters and young professionals with its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, independent cinemas and thrift stores. While the southeastern part can be expensive, more affordable housing can be found further from the city centre.

Nippes

Nippes is a multicultural neighbourhood, known for its Turkish stores and ethnic eateries. It is a quiet and affordable area, attracting older residents and families with its cafe culture and green spaces. It is well-connected to the city centre by public transport.

Chorweiler

Chorweiler is a quiet, residential neighbourhood on the outskirts of the city, with a low population density and a rural feel. It offers plenty of green spaces and is well-connected to other districts. While it may be perceived as bland or rough, it is slowly transforming into a welcoming and leafy area.

Porz

Porz is Cologne's largest borough, located on the eastern side of the Rhine. It has a village-like feel with its green spaces and riverside harbour. It is popular with families and offers a mix of affordable housing options, as well as convenient access to the airport.

Mülheim

Mülheim is a creative hub, located on the eastern side of the Rhine. Once an industrial district, it is now home to concert halls, media and music companies. It is a great choice for young professionals, offering job opportunities and a mix of affordable and expensive housing options.

These diverse neighbourhoods showcase the varied character of Cologne, offering something for everyone, from students and young professionals to families and mature residents.

Rent prices and budget

Rent prices in Cologne vary depending on the location and size of the apartment. Generally, furnished apartments are more expensive and competitive than unfurnished apartments.

For instance, a one-bedroom furnished apartment in the city centre, also known as The Innenstadt or The Ring, will be pricier than in other districts. The Innenstadt is the historic heart of Cologne, with iconic landmarks such as the cathedral and the Hohenzollern bridge, as well as bustling shopping streets.

The Lindenthal district, home to the University of Cologne, is another sought-after location. Here, rent prices for a furnished one-bedroom apartment start at around €880 and can go up to €1,330 per month.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider the Cologne-Mülheim neighbourhood, where rent for a furnished one-bedroom apartment is around €800-€1,200 per month. Another budget-friendly option is the Cologne-Porz neighbourhood, with rent prices for a furnished one-bedroom apartment ranging from €750 to €1,150 per month.

For those seeking a more trendy and artsy area, Ehrenfeld is a great choice. Ehrenfeld is one of the most liberal and artsy districts in Cologne, with a vibrant mix of young creatives and artists. While prices are currently lower than in the city centre, they might increase due to Ehrenfeld's growing popularity.

Nippes is another trendy neighbourhood with a mix of bars, cafes, and parks. It is one of the most expensive districts in the city, with rent prices for a furnished one-bedroom flat ranging from €950 to €1,400 per month.

It's worth noting that Cologne has a wide range of property types available, from studio apartments to luxury penthouses. Additionally, the city offers both short-term and long-term rental options to cater to different needs and budgets.

When creating your budget, keep in mind that some additional costs may apply, such as a cultural levy or "city tax" of 5% on the total rent, which is charged for stays under six months. There may also be additional costs for amenities or services such as parking, laundry, or weekly cleaning.

Short-term vs long-term rentals

When considering a-partment basic Cologne, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of short-term vs long-term rentals. Here's an overview:

Short-term Rentals in Cologne:

Short-term rentals in Cologne offer flexibility and convenience, especially for those looking to stay in the city for a limited period. These are some of the key advantages:

• Flexibility: Short-term rentals allow tenants to lease an apartment for a few months without a long-term commitment. This is ideal for students, digital nomads, or those on temporary work assignments.
• Convenience: Many short-term rentals in Cologne are fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, including appliances, outdoor pools, fitness rooms, and BBQ areas. This eliminates the hassle of buying furniture and makes the stay comfortable.
• Location: Short-term rentals are available in various neighbourhoods, including Innenstadt, Lindenthal, Porz, and Mülheim. This allows tenants to choose a location that best suits their needs and preferences, whether they want to be close to the city centre or in a quieter area.
• Attractions: Cologne has numerous attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, the Old Town, the Rheinauhafen (Harbour District), and the Imhoff Chocolate Museum. Short-term rentals provide easy access to these attractions, making them ideal for those who want to explore the city during their stay.
• Price: Short-term rentals in Cologne can vary in price, with options available for different budgets. For instance, the Zollstock district offers modern and bright apartments with excellent ratings for a short drive from the Cologne Cathedral and Old Town, while Porz offers some of the city's most affordable short-term rentals.

Long-term Rentals in Cologne:

Long-term rentals in Cologne are ideal for those planning to stay in the city for an extended period. Here are some key benefits:

• Stability: Long-term rentals offer the security of a permanent residence, eliminating the need to frequently search for new accommodations.
• Cost-effectiveness: While short-term rentals can be more expensive on a monthly basis, long-term rentals often provide better value over time.
• Sense of Community: Long-term rentals allow tenants to establish a sense of community and build relationships with neighbours, which can be beneficial for those planning to stay in the city for several years.
• Familiarity: With a long-term rental, you become familiar with the neighbourhood, local amenities, and transport options, making it easier to navigate the city and feel at home.
• Options: Cologne offers a wide range of long-term rental options, including apartments, rooms, and studios in various neighbourhoods. This gives tenants the opportunity to find a place that suits their budget, preferred location, and lifestyle.

In conclusion, both short-term and long-term rentals in Cologne have their advantages. Short-term rentals offer flexibility and convenience, making them ideal for temporary stays, while long-term rentals provide stability, cost-effectiveness, and a sense of community for those planning to put down roots in the city.

Furnished vs unfurnished

When it comes to renting an apartment in Cologne, you'll have the option of choosing between a furnished or unfurnished property. A-partment Basic Cologne is likely to offer both options, so it's important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision.

Furnished Apartments: The Pros and Cons

A furnished apartment comes with everything you need to live comfortably from the moment you move in. This includes furniture, appliances, kitchenware, linens, and sometimes even decorative items.

Pros:

• Convenience: You don't need to spend time and money buying furniture and appliances, making it ideal if you're relocating or short on time.
• Higher rental yield: Landlords can typically charge 15-20% more for furnished rentals, making it a lucrative option.
• Shorter vacancy periods: Furnished apartments tend to attract renters faster, especially those seeking short-term housing or convenience, such as business professionals or international students.
• Tax advantages: Landlords can claim depreciation deductions, immediate expense deductions, and higher deductions for maintenance and interest on loans related to furnishings.

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs: Furnishing an apartment requires a significant investment in furniture and appliances, and maintaining these items can be costly.
• Increased liability: There's a higher risk of damage to the property's contents, leading to potential disputes over security deposits.
• Higher insurance costs: Landlords may need more comprehensive insurance policies to cover the provided furniture and appliances.
• Frequent tenant turnover: Furnished apartments often appeal to short-term renters, resulting in higher turnover rates and more time spent on marketing and tenant screening.

Unfurnished Apartments: The Pros and Cons

Unfurnished apartments, on the other hand, provide only the bare necessities, such as basic appliances. Renters will need to supply their own furniture and other essentials to make the space comfortable.

Pros:

• Longer tenant occupancy: Unfurnished rentals attract tenants looking for long-term solutions, as they bring their own furniture and view the rental as a blank canvas.
• Less wear and tear: Landlords don't need to worry about frequent replacement or repair of furniture and appliances, reducing maintenance costs.
• Broader market appeal: These apartments attract a wider range of renters, including families, long-term professionals, and individuals who want to personalise their space.
• Lower rental prices: Unfurnished units typically have lower rents, making them more accessible to a larger pool of potential renters.

Cons:

• Longer vacancy periods: Renters may be less willing to commit to an unfurnished apartment, especially in competitive markets where convenience is a priority.
• Lower rental income: Unfurnished rentals generally attract lower monthly rents, which may result in reduced income for landlords.
• Tenant investment: Tenants need to invest in their own furniture, which can be a financial burden, especially for those on a budget or relocating temporarily.

The Bottom Line

The decision to choose between a furnished or unfurnished A-partment Basic Cologne depends on your specific needs and situation. Furnished apartments offer convenience and higher rental yields but come with higher upfront costs and potential liability issues. Unfurnished apartments, while seemingly less appealing at first, often result in longer tenant occupancy and broader market appeal, though they may lead to longer vacancy periods and reduced rental income. Ultimately, it's essential to conduct thorough market research to understand the preferences of potential renters in Cologne and make an informed choice.

Transport links

A-partment Basic Cologne is located in the Neustadt district of the city. The area benefits from excellent transport links, with the tram just a minute's walk away. The apartment is also within walking distance of the Mediapark, Friesenplatz and Hansaring.

For those travelling by car, the A3 motorway is easily accessible, and the apartment has an underground parking space available. Cologne Braunsfeld is also just a short drive away, and the apartment is well-connected to the city centre, Cologne trade fair, Ford works, Bayer, and the old town.

For those relying on public transport, the nearest bus and train stop is just 200 metres away. The apartment is also within walking distance of the central station, and the city benefits from an integrated system of buses, trams, and overground trains operated by KVB. A single-day ticket for the KVB network costs €8.80.

For those looking to rent a car, the Share Now car-sharing app gives you access to BMWs, Minis and Smart cars to drive around the city at rates starting at 19 cents a minute, including fuel and parking costs.

Frequently asked questions