The More Affordable Type Of Lodging Rick Steves Much Prefers Over Hotels

With over four decades of experience in travel writing and European tourism, it's safe to say that travel expert Rick Steves has seen his fair share of hotel rooms and accommodations worldwide. And in between the budget hostels and luxury resorts, there's one thing he can always agree on: Bed and breakfasts are typically much better value than traditional hotels. "A B&B offers double the warmth and cultural intimacy for half the price of a hotel," the expert notes on his blog, making the case for why you should consider staying at a bed and breakfast on your next trip.

Generally speaking, when you choose a B&B over a classic hotel or Airbnb property — which Rick Steves recommends you try to avoid — you're basically opting for personalized service that some larger names just can't match. From innkeepers that often serve as local guides sharing insider tips about the area to home-cooked breakfasts that put standard continental offerings to shame, the attention to detail at a B&B makes a huge difference. This, along with included amenities like free Wi-Fi, complimentary parking, and even afternoon refreshments in cozy common areas, often make B&Bs more affordable (and memorable) than hotels, especially when you start to factor in the extra charges that larger properties tend to add.

Put simply, the intimacy of a bed and breakfast creates a fundamentally different travel experience than a standard hotel stay. With fewer rooms and guests, innkeepers can usually focus on creating personalized stays that reflect a more genuine side of each destination. This often starts with breakfast, where you'll be more likely to enjoy a home-cooked meal that uses local ingredients instead of standard buffet fare.

As another plus, these properties also tend to be located in less-traveled areas, giving you the chance to experience neighborhoods that you might have otherwise missed. As for exploring, your B&B hosts can also help maximize any experience by directing you to local events, hidden gems, and authentic experiences that won't necessarily show up in standard tourist guides. This ultimately means you're getting a more enriching experience for less — making every dollar of your travel budget count. Plus, the smaller scale of these properties also means you'll enjoy a lot more peace and quiet. So rather than navigating crowded hotel lobbies and packed elevators, you'll find yourself in a more relaxed, home-like setting.

To top all of the benefits and perks off, most B&Bs are also excellent at providing some truly unexpected luxuries without the typical high price tag of upscale hotels. During your stay, you might find some unexpected extras like premium bedding, afternoon tea service, or access to specialty equipment for local activities.