Key differences between B&Bs and hotels
So, what are the key differences between these types of properties? Let's take a look.
Location and atmosphere
A bed and breakfast is often found in a quieter spot such as a converted home, a countryside property or a tucked-away street in a small town. Guests stay in an intimate setting that emphasizes authenticity, local culture and connection, with innkeepers typically living on-site and interacting directly with travelers.
Hotels or hotel chains are more often located in central districts or near attractions. They deliver consistency, modern amenities and a structured environment. The scale makes them better suited for travelers who value predictability and convenience.
Size and structure
Like boutique hotels, most bed and breakfasts operate with four to eleven rooms, averaging around six, and are usually privately owned. Bathrooms can be en-suite, though some properties share facilities across floors.
Hotels vary in size from small boutique properties to global chains. They generally feature more rooms than a B&B, divided by floors with private bathrooms as standard.
Amenities and services
B&Bs focus on comfort and character. They feel like a home away from home. Breakfast is often home-cooked, with owners offering local recommendations and personal service. Check-in is handled directly by the host, sometimes with set hours.
Hotels provide a wider range of facilities and hotel services: 24-hour front desks, room service, concierge, pools, gyms, spas and on-site dining. The experience is standardized, meaning guests know what to expect.
Guest experience and target audience
B&Bs attract couples, solo travelers and those seeking a personal touch and local experience. Hotels appeal to a wider audience including families, business travelers and groups, offering efficiency over uniqueness.
B&Bs vs hotels: pros and cons
Both types of accommodation have strengths and limitations. What counts as a pro or con depends on the target guest.
B&Bs
Pros
- Cozy atmosphere that feels like a home away from home
- Personalized service
- Homemade breakfast
- Opportunities to connect with locals
- Unique character
Cons
- Limited booking systems
- Fewer amenities compared to hotels
- Focuses on a specific niche
- No 24/7 check-in or service
- Smaller scale operations
Hotels
Pros
- Wide range of hotel amenities and services
- Comfort and convenience
- Predictable standards
- Concierge service
- 24/7 check-in
Cons
- Less personalized service
- More anonymous atmosphere
- Standardized experiences
- Larger scale can feel noisy or less cozy
Operational needs: PMS vs manual systems
Why hotels need a property management system
Hotels manage higher volumes of guests and services, which makes a hotel management software solution like a PMS essential. It can help streamline reservations, housekeeping, revenue management and reporting, improving efficiency and guest experience.
Why B&Bs favor manual systems
Smaller bed and breakfasts often rely on manual processes, since their scale doesn't always justify the cost of dedicated software. As they grow, however, a PMS can help prevent double bookings, ensure consistent pricing across channels and simplify daily operations.
How bed and breakfasts and hotels can attract their ideal guests
B&Bs and hotels require different marketing approaches to appeal to the right audience.
B&Bs
- Highlight differentiators such as personalized service, unique travel experiences and opportunities to interact with locals
- Sell the guest experience, not just the room
- Emphasize the character of your location and any hidden gems
- Use sensory storytelling to connect emotionally
- Share authentic visuals across social media
- Build a narrative that makes your B&B getaway stand out
Hotels
- Invest in a PMS to personalize guest experiences
- Partner with influencers aligned with your target audience
- Leverage social media consistently
- Ensure brand messaging is clear across touchpoints
- Maintain smooth communication throughout the guest journey
- Turn loyal guests into advocates with loyalty programs or referral rewards
- Highlight quality food and beverage as an added value
- Build partnerships with local businesses and communities
Conclusion
By understanding the differences between B&Bs vs hotels, both guests and operators can make better decisions. Travelers can choose the type of experience that best matches their needs, while operators can position their property based on what they uniquely offer.
Hotels often benefit from the efficiency of a PMS like Mews, which integrates operations and delivers smoother guest journeys. B&Bs, meanwhile, can run effectively with simpler systems until they decide to expand. Whichever model you run, the right tools and positioning will help create seamless experiences that keep guests returning.
Download our guide "Maximizing Your Property's Full Potential"
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