Staying at a bed and breakfast (B&B) might seem like an old-fashioned way of traveling, but lately, it’s become anything but that. It’s more like staying in someone else’s home rather than a hotel; with a hearty breakfast included in the hosted accommodation. But it’s the perfect answer for anyone looking for a cozy and more personalized stay.
Whether it’s up in the mountains or along the coastline, exploring a different city, or staycation with friends, there are so many reasons why a B&B will suit your holiday. So, if you’re curious as to what is a bed and breakfast when compared to a hotel (hint: plenty!), keep reading on – I’ve got all the essential details you’ll want to know.
1. What is a bed and breakfast and how it works
Bed and breakfast establishments have a rich and fascinating history: originally, they were private homes that opened their doors to travelers in need of a place to stay. The majority of the travelers at the time were pioneers, miners, workers, or early explorers who were traveling long distances and needed a place to stop for the night and be served a home-cooked meal before they continued on their journey.
This sentiment grabbed my attention in the early days of my travel adventures, and has kept me coming back to them time and time again. Today, B&Bs may have become more formal accommodations, but they still maintain that same homey atmosphere, with personalized touches like homemade breakfasts and insider recommendations for local attractions and dining options.
What sets B&Bs apart from traditional hotels is their focus on creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for guests. Bed and breakfasts tend to be smaller and more intimate, often having only a few rooms, compared to large-scale hotels. The hosts are often the owners themselves, who are genuinely passionate about sharing their place and town with others.
These hosts usually cook homemade breakfasts (forget about the standard hotel buffets) and also offer local insights into the culture, people, and main attractions. One of my favorite parts of staying in a B&B is the interaction with the hosts. There’s always something to learn from the locals who can offer a wealth of knowledge that adds a more personal touch to your trip.
2. The appeal of luxury bed and breakfasts
Looking for a bit more than just a comfy bed and delicious breakfast? Luxury bed and breakfasts have become increasingly popular among travelers seeking a more comfortable stay. Think high-quality linen, soft, high thread count bedding, complimentary refreshments, gourmet organic breakfasts, and perhaps even a private hot tub. You’ll get those extra touches when booking a luxury bed and breakfast.
Just like the varying standards of hotels, you’ll find that B&Bs also come in different shapes, sizes, and personalities; with luxury options having heightened attention to detail and offering unique experiences. From yoga sessions to guided tours of local vineyards or even private access to walking trails, higher-end B&Bs will ensure you delve into whatever the local region is known for. I find it strikes a nice balance between a cozy homestay and a sophisticated hotel; with the best of both worlds.
3. What is the difference between a bed and breakfast and a hotel
You might now find yourself debating between booking a B&B or a hotel. So, what really is the difference between a bed and breakfast and a hotel? While hotels can provide grander amenities like fitness centers, spas, and pools, B&Bs offer a personalized touch with a cozy, home-like environment. According to the Association of Lodging Professional, there are a few key aspects that define a B&B over a hotel; location, size, price, and amenities.
Location
One of the key differences between a bed and breakfast and a hotel is location. Bed and breakfasts are typically located in residential areas, while hotels are usually located in commercial areas. It’s also common to find B&Bs in more rural places, in fact only 23 percent of B&Bs can be found in urban areas.
Size
Bed and breakfasts are typically much smaller than hotels, with most having fewer than 10 guest rooms. This intimate size can make for a more personal experience, so you feel more like part of a family than just another hotel guest.
Amenities
A third key difference between a bed and breakfast and a hotel is amenities. Hotels typically offer a wide range of amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, business centers, and on-site restaurants. Bed and breakfasts, on the other hand, typically only offer the basics, such as breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Price
Hotels can be quite expensive, especially if they are located in major cities or near popular tourist attractions. Bed and breakfasts, on the other hand, are typically much more affordable (although this depends on how luxurious it is). The average daily rate for a B&B is about $150.
4. When to book a B&B instead of a hotel
B&Bs can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a more intimate and local experience when traveling. It can feel a little like staying at a friend’s house rather than being just another guest at a formal hotel. However, with fewer rooms and limited amenities, it might not suit every trip.
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic escape or a more intimate stay with local knowledge at your fingertips, then a B&B will hit all the right notes. They can offer the perfect couples retreat or soul-searching solo escape, especially if you want to be somewhere away from the hustle and bustle. But if you prefer a wider range of amenities and to be close to all the main attractions in a city, then a hotel might have more to offer. Hotels are usually better set up for business trips and have more amenities for families with young kids. Ultimately, it’s up to you where you want to rest your head at night.
5. Hotels with breakfast: a comparison & how to find them
Imagine waking up in the cozy comfort of a charming bed and breakfast, the gentle aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon wafting through the air. The quintessential breakfast experience at a bed and breakfast is all about indulging in a hearty and delicious morning meal that perfectly complements the serene atmosphere of your accommodation. But in my opinion, it’s not just the food that makes the experience so special at a B&B.
I go to B&Bs for the sense of community and conviviality that comes with sharing a table with fellow guests, swapping travel stories, and feeling like you are part of something truly memorable. But some hotels also offer breakfast, right? From fluffy pancakes to buttery croissants and savory omelets, it’s not just B&Bs that serve up mouth-watering breakfast options.
KAYAK’s search tools can make it easier than ever. Not only can you find hotels with free breakfast, but you can also compare the breakfast experience at hotels with that of B&Bs. How can you do it? Just go to KAYAK hotel search at your destination, and use Freebies Filter: Free breakfast. You will have the establishments selection, and displayed on the right side of the hotel card, you will see if a hotel offers free breakfast. Also, KAYAK offers the ability to search for hotels based on a variety of factors, including price, location, and budget. This means you can pick and choose exactly what suits your trip.
Combining the creature comforts of home with the intimacy and personalization of a local establishment, B&Bs are quite the appealing choice of stay. Whether you like the idea of breakfast in bed delivered by your friendly innkeeper or prefer to rise in the morning to an included buffet in your hotel suite, there are certainly different levels of luxury among both hotels and B&Bs alike.
Ultimately, it’s your personal preference where you stay — it might even depend on the type of trip you’re going on. Whichever you choose, make sure to do some research ahead of time so that you can be sure to book the perfect accommodation for your getaway. Alternatively, you might want to search for your perfect vacation rental.
6. Some of our favorite cities to stay in a B&B
While B&Bs have typically been the go-to accommodation for a rural escape, you can also enjoy all the homey touches of a B&B in a city. If you’re sick of riding the elevator up several floors or feeling like one of a crowd in large-scale urban hotels, then take our advice and book a B&B in some of our favorite cities.
World-class metropolises like Paris and London can feel overwhelming, particularly if you check in to a large hotel in the midst of whirling traffic and tourists. This is the perfect opportunity to opt for a B&B. Paris B&Bs will have you waking up in a local neighborhood to the smell of freshly baked croissants, while you can gain some local insight into the best pubs and navigate the tube at London B&Bs.
In Orlando, you’ll find B&Bs across the city, some closer to the famous Florida beaches while others are the perfect Disney vacation home away from home. Chicago B&Bs come in all personalities, from old rustic inns to inner city villas, while you can’t beat local knowledge from your Nashville B&B hosts when discovering the city’s live music scene.
Bed and Breakfast FAQ
The length of your stay at a bed and breakfast is usually up to you and the availability of the establishment. Many places have a minimum stay requirement, while others allow guests to book for extended periods. If you’re enjoying your stay and want to prolong it, it’s always best to speak with the owners.
While sometimes used interchangeably, inns are often larger and offer more amenities, such as a restaurant or bar on site. They can also range from modern to historic in style. Bed and breakfasts, on the other hand, usually offer a more intimate and cozy experience with fewer rooms and a personal touch from the owners. You can also enjoy a homemade breakfast with locally sourced ingredients at B&Bs, while an Inn usually offers an on-site restaurant with breakfast options if you want.
While sometimes used interchangeably, inns are often larger and offer more amenities, such as a restaurant or bar on site. They can also range from modern to historic in style. Bed and breakfasts, on the other hand, usually offer a more intimate and cozy experience with fewer rooms and a personal touch from the owners. You can also enjoy a homemade breakfast with locally sourced ingredients at B&Bs, while an Inn usually offers an on-site restaurant with breakfast options if you want.
While it may vary from location to location, many bed and breakfasts do offer private bathrooms for their guests. This is particularly true with newer establishments that cater to modern travelers’ expectations of privacy and convenience. However, some cheaper B&Bs may offer some rooms with shared bathrooms for those on a budget.
