Choosing the Best Hotel for Your European Adventure: 5 Expert Tips on Hotel Star Ratings, Room Options, and Booking Advice

As an experienced traveler who has led small tour groups through Central Europe, (specifically Germany, Austria and Italy) and taken many family trips, I've gained valuable insights into choosing the right hotel. In this blog post, I'll share some expert tips to help you make the most of your European adventure, including understanding hotel star ratings, room options, and advice on hotel booking get you an upgrade. Plus, I'll offer advice on finding family-owned hotels that embrace local hospitality and charm, and budget-friendly accommodations that won't break the bank.

Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your European adventure:

1. Let the stars guide you, but don't get too starry-eyed. Hotel star ratings, usually 1-5 stars, are based on the amenities or services offered, such as 24-hour desk attendant, in-room amenities like mini-bar, safe, and sauna, an on-site restaurant, elevator, room service, conference rooms, and valet services. More stars don't always mean a better hotel or travel experience, or even larger hotel rooms. Keep in mind that the criteria for stars can vary within different European countries. So, don't get too hung up on them, just pay attention to the listed room amenities on the hotel's website.

2. Hotel room categories are straightforward. Single rooms are for one person, double rooms are for two people, and triple rooms are for three people. However, it's important to note that a "double room" in Europe typically means a room with a queen or king size bed, not a full size bed as Americans might assume. Additionally, in some Central European hotels, the bed may consist of two twin mattresses pushed together on a single king bed frame, with two twin duvet blankets and standard sized pillows.

3. Don't assume that there is air conditioning in the room unless it is listed in the room amenities. Trust me, you don't want to be sweating like a runner in a Houston, Texas marathon.

4. While there are exceptions, in most larger European cities, it's recommended to book hotels with caution which are near the main train station due to the often seedy and gritty areas around them. Unless you're a fan of the rough and tumble, of course.

5. To get better treatment, discounts and possible room upgrades, it's best to book directly from the hotel’s website rather than using booking agencies or third-party websites. Sometimes it is possible to get even better rates by emailing the hotel directly, rather than use the booking service on their website. Who doesn't love a good deal?

---