Laptop friendly places

Top 8 Laptop-Friendly Spots in Cologne: Local Cafes and Coworking Spaces

Updated Jun 05, 2025

Discover Cologne's best laptop-friendly cafes and coworking spaces, from trendy coffee shops to hidden local gems, perfect for digital nomads and remote workers.

Top 8 Laptop-Friendly Spots in Cologne: Local Cafes and Coworking Spaces
1

Cafe Sehnsucht

Cafe Sehnsucht is a charming, cozy cafe nestled in Cologne's Ehrenfeld district. Known for its warm atmosphere and vintage decor, it's a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The cafe offers a diverse menu of homemade cakes, hearty breakfasts, and light lunches, all prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Its inviting interior, complete with mismatched furniture and quirky decorations, creates a unique, homey ambiance. Cafe Sehnsucht also hosts regular events, including live music and poetry readings, making it a cultural hub in the neighborhood. With its commitment to quality food, friendly service, and community-oriented approach, it embodies the essence of a quintessential Cologne cafe.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Charming cafe in quiet Ehrenfeld. Tasty coffee, fresh organic food, and exceptional cakes. Creative, changing menu with well-prepared vegetables. Warm atmosphere perfect for weekend brunch. Friendly staff and great food choices. Delightful chai latte and amazing banana bread. Highly recommended for tasty meals in a welcoming setting.

Can be overcrowded on Sundays. Some desserts disappoint. Blueberry cheesecake lacks cheese flavor, with a subpar jelly-like blueberry layer. Cake layer dry and flavorless. Limited negative feedback overall, with most reviews overwhelmingly positive.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2023 and Feb 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Food quality consistently praised. Varied menu with options for vegetarians and vegans. Generous portions. Staff described as friendly, polite, and helpful. Excellent service noted by multiple reviewers. Good atmosphere for family meals. Convenient location in a quieter part of the city. Coffee and breakfast items well-received.

Slow service reported during busy times, particularly affecting coffee orders. One reviewer found the coffee unremarkable. Price point may be high for some, with a family meal for four costing over 140 euros before tip. Limited negative feedback overall, suggesting generally positive experiences.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2020 and May 2023

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors rave about the cafe's cozy atmosphere, delicious homemade cakes, and excellent coffee. Many praise the friendly staff and the cafe's unique, vintage-inspired decor. The breakfast options are highly recommended, with guests particularly enjoying the variety and quality of the dishes. The cafe's commitment to using local ingredients is also frequently commended.

Some customers mention that the cafe can get crowded, especially on weekends, leading to longer wait times. A few reviews note that prices are slightly higher than average for the area. Occasionally, visitors comment on limited seating options during peak hours. Some also mention that the menu could benefit from more vegan and gluten-free options.

2

Heilandt Kaffeemanufaktur

Ehrenfeld
Coffee Shop and Roastery
Not required

Heilandt Kaffeemanufaktur is a beloved coffee roastery and café in Cologne, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. They source beans directly from farmers, ensuring fair trade practices. The café offers a range of specialty coffees, from light to dark roasts, prepared using various brewing methods. Visitors can enjoy their drinks in a cozy, minimalist setting or take home freshly roasted beans. Heilandt also provides coffee education through cupping sessions and workshops, making it a hub for coffee enthusiasts. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide customers through their coffee journey, from bean selection to brewing techniques.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Excellent coffee, especially flat whites and batch brews. Delicious baked goods, including carrot cake, vanilla lemon croissant, and cheesecake with raspberry sauce. Friendly atmosphere and relaxed laptop policy. Reasonable prices and fast service. Popular among locals. Fresh roasted beans and proper barista skills. Outdoor seating available.

Small, crowded space with uncomfortable atmosphere. Long queues and limited seating time due to high customer volume. Some find the coffee over-roasted or too light. Decor lacks coziness. Can feel cramped with little personal space. Mixed opinions on the house blend, with some finding it too mild.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2021 and Jan 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Heilandt offers excellent coffee with various brewing methods. Knowledgeable staff serve delicious cakes, especially the New York Cheesecake. The cafe boasts vintage furniture and sells in-house roasts and equipment. It's busy but open late, ideal for coffee enthusiasts. Despite feeling out of place, older patrons still enjoy the high-quality beans.

The cafe can get crowded, with waits for tables during busy times. Some customers might feel uncomfortable due to the trendy, hipster atmosphere. The small size of the cafe could be an issue for those seeking more space. Limited food options beyond cakes and small savory items may disappoint those looking for a full meal.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2015 and Jul 2020

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Customers rave about the exceptional coffee quality and diverse selection. Many praise the friendly, expert staff who offer personalized recommendations. The café's atmosphere is often described as inviting and relaxed. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about coffee origins and brewing methods. The freshly roasted beans for home use are also highly regarded.

Some customers find the prices slightly high compared to standard cafés. A few mention limited seating during peak hours, which can be inconvenient. Occasionally, visitors note that the minimalist decor might feel too stark for those seeking a cozy ambiance. Some reviewers wished for a wider selection of food options to accompany their coffee.

3

STARTPLATZ

STARTPLATZ is a vibrant coworking space and startup hub in Cologne's MediaPark. It offers a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. The space features modern amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and event spaces. STARTPLATZ hosts regular workshops, networking events, and startup programs, fostering innovation and collaboration. Its café serves as a central gathering point, offering drinks and light meals. The community-focused atmosphere encourages knowledge sharing and business growth. With its central location and comprehensive facilities, STARTPLATZ has become a cornerstone of Cologne's startup ecosystem, attracting a diverse mix of creative professionals and tech innovators.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Startplatz is a top co-working space in Europe. It offers great facilities and a lively atmosphere for networking with experienced founders and experts. The location is excellent, and the space hosts various events and presentations. Flexible co-working packages provide good value for money. The venue is praised for its awesome atmosphere and top-notch facilities.

Employees using the co-working area can take up space from paying customers. Tech events sometimes overload the internet, making it unusable for days. The monthly plan has a hidden 4-week notice requirement for cancellation, which led to unexpected charges for one user. This lack of transparency about cancellation policies can cause financial inconvenience for short-term users.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2017 and Feb 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Users praise STARTPLATZ for its energetic atmosphere, well-equipped workspaces, and networking opportunities. The helpful staff, clean facilities, and diverse community receive high marks. Many appreciate the regular events and workshops, finding them valuable for professional development. The café is noted for its quality coffee and snacks.

Some users mention occasional noise issues in the open workspace areas. A few find the pricing for private offices on the higher side. During peak hours, finding available meeting rooms can be challenging. Some note that the space can get crowded during popular events, affecting regular work routines.

4

Van Dyck Rosterei

Ehrenfeld
Coffee Roastery and Café
Not required

Van Dyck Rosterei is a beloved coffee roastery and café in Cologne. Known for its expertly roasted beans and cozy atmosphere, it's a haven for coffee enthusiasts. The shop offers a wide selection of single-origin coffees and blends, all roasted on-site. Visitors can enjoy their coffee in the charming café area or purchase beans to take home. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to share insights about their coffee sourcing and roasting process. With its commitment to quality and sustainability, Van Dyck Rosterei has become a cornerstone of Cologne's thriving coffee scene.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors rave about the exceptional coffee, especially the light roast and Ugandan beans. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with the aroma of fresh roasting coffee. Knowledgeable staff provide excellent service. Tasty baked goods complement the coffee. Ample parking available. Perfect spot for coffee enthusiasts in Cologne.

No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the provided reviews. All feedback was overwhelmingly positive, focusing on the quality of coffee, pleasant atmosphere, and friendly staff.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2020 and Jan 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Customers rave about the exceptional coffee quality and diverse selection. Many praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the cozy atmosphere. The in-house roasting process is often highlighted as a unique feature. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about different coffee origins and brewing methods.

Some visitors find the prices a bit high compared to standard cafés. A few mention limited seating during peak hours, which can lead to waiting times. Occasionally, customers note that the minimalist menu might not cater to those seeking elaborate coffee drinks or extensive food options.

5

Die Wohngemeinschaft

Belgian Quarter
Cafe-Bar-Hostel
Optional

Die Wohngemeinschaft is a unique cafe-bar-hostel hybrid in Cologne's vibrant Belgian Quarter. This quirky spot offers a cozy, living room-like atmosphere with mismatched furniture and themed rooms. By day, it's a relaxed cafe perfect for working or meeting friends. At night, it transforms into a lively bar with live music and events. The hostel upstairs features creatively decorated rooms. Die Wohngemeinschaft captures Cologne's eclectic spirit, blending hipster charm with a welcoming vibe. It's a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of the city's alternative scene in a comfortable, home-away-from-home setting.

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors rave about the unique, cozy atmosphere and creative decor. Many praise the friendly staff, delicious food and drinks, and the diverse events calendar. The hostel rooms receive compliments for their quirky themes and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the social vibe and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and locals.

Some guests mention noise from the bar can be disruptive for hostel guests. A few reviewers find the place too crowded during peak hours. Occasional complaints about slow service during busy times. Some note that the eclectic style might not appeal to those preferring more conventional settings.

6

Kaffeesaurus

Kaffeesaurus is a charming, dinosaur-themed café in Cologne that's become a local favorite. This unique spot offers a cozy atmosphere with quirky decor, featuring dinosaur figurines and fossil-inspired artwork. They serve a variety of high-quality coffee drinks, from classic espressos to creative specialty lattes. The menu also includes a selection of homemade cakes, pastries, and light lunch options. With its friendly staff and relaxed vibe, Kaffeesaurus is perfect for a casual meet-up, a quick bite, or a leisurely coffee break. The café's playful theme and attention to detail in both decor and food presentation make it a standout in Cologne's coffee scene.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Kaffeesaurus in Düsseldorf impresses with excellent coffee and food. Standouts include eggs Benedict, chai latte, and creative dishes like sweet potato shakshuki. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff enhance the experience. Visitors praise the quality of ingredients, flavors, and presentation. The cafe's popularity is evident from the consistent queues.

Wait times can be long, especially on weekends. Some customers reported a 10-minute wait on a Saturday morning, with longer lines forming quickly. The cafe's popularity means it can get crowded, potentially impacting the dining experience for those who prefer quieter settings.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2024 and Jan 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Centrally located with indoor and outdoor seating. Tasty coffee from their own roasters and good tea. Nice atmosphere with a spacious terrace. Excellent service in a cozy, hipster-ish environment. Menu themed around dinosaurs adds originality. Best chai latte in town. Sweet treats and orange cake recommended. Decent food overall.

Slow service, with coffee sometimes arriving cold after long waits. Staff described as unfriendly, arrogant, and unprofessional. Coffee quality questioned by a self-proclaimed barista. Seating can be uncomfortable with hard wooden benches. Some dishes are heavy and not suitable for light digestion. Breakfast choices sometimes too heavy. Croissants could be improved.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2022 and Sep 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Customers rave about the unique dinosaur theme, creating a fun and Instagram-worthy environment. The coffee is consistently praised for its quality and taste. Many highlight the friendly, attentive staff and the cozy atmosphere. The homemade cakes and pastries receive high marks for their deliciousness and variety.

Some visitors find the café can get crowded, especially on weekends, leading to longer wait times. A few mention that seating can be limited during peak hours. Occasionally, customers note that prices are slightly higher than average for the area, though most feel the quality justifies the cost.

7

Cafe Lichterfeld

Cafe Lichterfeld is a charming, family-run establishment in Cologne's Ehrenfeld district. Known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious homemade cakes, it's a local favorite for breakfast and brunch. The cafe offers a diverse menu of fresh, seasonal dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Its vintage-inspired decor, featuring mismatched furniture and warm lighting, creates a welcoming ambiance. Outdoor seating is available in warmer months, perfect for people-watching on the bustling street. Lichterfeld also hosts occasional events, such as live music performances and art exhibitions, adding to its appeal as a community gathering spot.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Lichterfeld offers an excellent venue for weddings. The service is top-notch, with delicious food and efficient staff. The venue is flexible, allowing customization for events. It's centrally located in Cologne but still relatively unknown. The atmosphere is beautiful, perfect for photos. Parking is available, and public transport access is easy. Overall, it provides a perfect setting for special occasions.

Some guests experienced poor service, especially for vegetarian options. Staff can be unfriendly and stressed. The restaurant lacks English-speaking service and doesn't accept card payments. Food combinations can be unusual. The place seems to cater mainly to German-speaking customers, which may not suit all visitors. Despite these issues, it remains popular, possibly due to limited alternatives in the area.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2019 and Aug 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests rave about the friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, and high-quality food. The homemade cakes and creative breakfast options receive particular praise. Many appreciate the cafe's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. The cozy interior and outdoor seating area are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Some visitors find the cafe can get crowded, especially during peak hours, leading to longer wait times. A few reviewers mention that prices are slightly higher than average for the area. Occasionally, guests report inconsistent service during busy periods.

8

Igel Café

Igel Café is a charming, hedgehog-themed coffee shop in Cologne's vibrant Ehrenfeld district. This cozy spot offers a unique blend of quirky decor and delicious treats. The café's interior is adorned with hedgehog-inspired art and plush toys, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, homemade cakes, and light meals. The menu features both classic German and international options, with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. Igel Café is particularly popular among locals for its relaxed ambiance and friendly service. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely breakfast, afternoon coffee, or casual meet-up with friends. The café also sells hedgehog-themed merchandise, making it a perfect place to find unique souvenirs.

Summary of reviews from

Google

The cafe offers a wide selection of delectable pastries and desserts, particularly praising the apple pie with almonds. Patrons enjoy the spacious interior with ample seating and pleasant outdoor dining. The atmosphere is commended, and the coffee is generally well-received. The establishment's aesthetics, including good-looking cakes and nice interior design, are highlighted.

Service quality is inconsistent, with some experiencing slow or unfriendly treatment. Several customers found the food and drinks overpriced for the taste quality, describing them as average or 'mid'. Order mix-ups were reported. The requirement to pay for bathroom use, even for dining customers, is a common complaint. Some felt the coffee was expensive without justifying the price in taste.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2022 and Dec 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Customers rave about the café's cozy atmosphere and unique hedgehog theme. Many praise the quality of coffee and homemade cakes, especially the cheesecake. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and welcoming environment. The café's outdoor seating area is highlighted as a pleasant spot for people-watching on sunny days.

Some reviewers mention limited seating during peak hours, which can lead to waiting times. A few customers find the prices slightly higher than average for the area. Occasionally, visitors note that the hedgehog theme might be overwhelming for those not particularly fond of the animal.