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What Is A Bed And Breakfast? [Traveler’s Guide, FAQ]
What Is A Bed And Breakfast?
A bed and breakfast (abbreviated “B&B”) is a type of hosted accommodation that includes breakfast in its nightly rate. B&Bs are often family-run, with fewer rooms than hotels. B&B hosts often live in or nearby the same property as their guests, which results in a homely atmosphere. As someone who’s stayed in bed and breakfasts around the world, I believe all travelers should experience a B&B at least once while traveling.
In this guide, we’ll cover what travelers should know about bed and breakfasts.
We’ll explore the brief history of bed and breakfasts, how they work, what they’re like inside, what to bring to a stay, 10 reasons to experience a bed and breakfast, the 13 B&B types, type of travelers that typically stay in a bed and breakfast, plus answers to 27 frequently asked questions. To learn about the similarities and differences between B&Bs and hotels, click here.
*Agoda.com is one of the best places to find and book a bed and breakfast. To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Table of Contents
Brief History Of Bed And Breakfasts
Hosted lodging has existed for millennia.
Caravanserais were the original B&Bs (the term “bed and breakfast” wasn’t used until about 200 years ago). This type of accommodation was built along the Silk Road (East Asia to Europe), so traders had safe, secure roofs to sleep under while crossing vast distances.
Silk Road map (land + sea routes) - Silkroadtravel.com
Similar types of lodging existed throughout history, including inns built by the Romans (particularly in mainland Europe) and the monasteries and mosques that allowed overnight guests. As the world became more inter-connected during the past seven centuries, travel has become increasingly safe and comfortable.
Regional styles of hosted lodging developed over the centuries, from Central Asia's yurts to Cappadocia’s cave homes. Today, there are at least 13 types of bed and breakfasts (including luxury, waterfront and romantic B&Bs). To learn about all 13 types of bed and breakfasts (with 5 examples of each), click here.
The term “bed and breakfast” was popularized in Britain during the 1800s. The concept then spread to America by European settlers moving westward overland. After settling in America, some families built properties to host future settlers who’d pass by on their own westward journeys. B&Bs are still very popular in the USA (tens of thousands) and UK.
Since English is the global tourism language, you’ll notice the term “bed and breakfast” used globally. But this lodging type goes by other names in other parts of the world, like “pension” (in parts of Europe, Asia and Middle East), “pousada” (Portuguese-speaking countries), “gostevoy” (Russian-speaking countries), “gasthaus” (German-speaking countries), “szálló” in Hungary, “minshukus” in Japan, among many others.
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
How Bed And Breakfasts Work
B&Bs provide a homely atmosphere for guests.
Many are family-owned and operated, meaning they typically employ little to no outside staff. As a guest, expect the service to be pleasant, but not speedy or streamlined (as very often found in hotels). Overall, bed and breakfasts are best-suited for people wanting to slow their day down, not speed it up.
Some hosts handle all the hosting duties themselves, while others may split duties between family members or staff. While some B&Bs hire staff for help, having too many employees can result in a property losing its personal touch - which is a big factor in what makes B&B stays unique from the generic hotel experience.
“Hospitality” is a word often ascribed to B&Bs, due to the personal connection that guests have with their host. On the other hand, “service” is a more apt word to describe hotels and resorts, as hotel guests interact with employees rather than a host/proprietor.
B&Bs are popular for “staycations” (an overnight stay near home). Staycations allow guests to escape their daily routine and often partake in activities, such as hiking and kayaking, without having to venture far from their home. Many staycation B&Bs are within an hour’s drive from a city. For how to find your ideal bed and breakfast, follow our B&B Booking Guide.
So, what amenities do B&Bs typically include/offer?
Apart from charming services (such as afternoon tea), some B&Bs offer activities like cooking classes, wine tastings, city walks and bicycle rentals (free or hourly rental). Rural bed and breakfasts may provide on-site parking, hiking trails, and equipment for water sports (such as kayaks, snorkel masks, etc.).
Bed and breakfasts vary by type - you can find farm stays, waterfront cottages, mountain view cabins and more. Some B&Bs open seasonally - weather for slow tourism, extreme weather bouts (snowstorm, tsunami, etc.) or other reasons. B&Bs can specialize in seasonal holidays, including Christmas getaways. To see the 13 types of B&Bs (with 5 examples of each), click here.
Many properties are quaintly decorated and/or have a local theme. The interior might have a single uniform theme across all guest rooms and common areas, or each individual room could have its own unique style.
In my experience, the nightly rate for a bed and breakfast will often surpass $100 per night, though it usually does not exceed $300 per night. Some B&Bs offer deals, like package rates (for example - lodging, dinner + ski lessons), business rates (for professionals) or weekly and/or monthly rates (to attract long stays).
Agoda.com is a well-known place to find and book bed and breakfasts at a great price. Another site with many B&B options (most relevant to North America) is Vrbo.com. For a complete step-by-step guide on how to find and book your ideal bed and breakfast online, follow our B&B Booking Guide.
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Inside A Bed And Breakfast (What It’s Like)
In this section, we’ll cover what it’s like to be inside a bed and breakfast, so you know what to expect before you’ve arrived. Bed and breakfasts vary in size, design, amenities and features, but often have the same layout as and function quite similarly to one another.
In my experience, B&Bs typically have fewer than 10 guest rooms. The host may not be present during all hours, but hosts should tell you how to contact them in case you need any assistance during your stay.
The 4 main sections of a B&B are:
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Common Areas
Breakfast
Bedrooms
Hotels typically offer multi-room rentals. In a B&B, expect two bedrooms maximum, with one being the “standard”. If you travel as a large group (6+ people), you’ll likely need to book multiple rooms. It can be difficult to find a B&B that accepts large groups (as most B&B properties only have a few guest rooms).
Some properties offer only one room “style” (layout, total beds, etc.), while others offer multiple options (features, furniture, total beds, balcony, etc.). Themed properties might decorate or name their rooms based on local attractions. While WiFi is a standard B&B feature, in-room TVs are not.
Bathrooms
Bed and breakfast guests may have access to a shared or private (en-suite) bathroom. Some B&Bs offer both options (depending on what you book). To learn all about shared bathroom etiquette, click here.
Hygiene amenities you can expect to find in a B&B room include: one bath towel and a hand towel (per guest), hand soap, bath soap and shampoo. For the 5 items that every traveler should consider bringing to their bed and breakfast stay, click here.
Common Areas
Many B&B properties were initially built to function as a family home, then later modified to host guests. This is why many only have one kitchen in the entire property, and might lack a large common area. B&B guests can expect to interact with their host and other guest groups during their stay (because of the typical property layout and breakfast hours).
Meals are often served on one single table where all guests sit together, or on smaller, individual tables, where groups sit amongst themselves. Meal time is a great opportunity to chat with your host, partner or other guest groups. Many hosts set up a snack table of finger foods, water, tea and/or other drinks - available for guests to take as they please throughout their stay.
Hosts often allow their guests to share kitchen access (for food brought from outside). Expect your host to tell you what you can or can’t use. To learn about the shared kitchen etiquette in B&Bs, click here. To see exactly how to find a bed and breakfast property that offers kitchen access to its guests, click here.
Breakfast
B&B hosts serve breakfast. Rather than a hotel-style continental breakfast or an à la carte menu (like in a typical restaurant), B&B hosts typically provide guests with one or a few homemade dishes to choose from.
Do not expect B&B breakfasts to be extravagant, but expect them to be home-cooked, tasty and large. After all, breakfast is a major component and perk of the overall bed and breakfast experience, and a big reason why it makes for an interesting cultural experience.
Famous Turkish breakfast (kahvalti)
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
What To Bring To A Bed And Breakfast
Here are 5 things that every traveler should consider bringing to a bed and breakfast stay. All these items are affordable (all 5 for under $100 total).
The 5 things to bring are:
Basic Toiletries [Buy Here]
Toiletry Bag [Buy Here]
Universal Travel Adapter [Buy Here]
Power Strip [Buy Here]
Flip Flops [Buy Here]
*To learn about why you should bring these 5 items (with quality, well-priced options), click here.
10 Reasons To Experience A Bed And Breakfast
There are 10 main reasons why every traveler should stay in a bed and breakfast at least once in their life. These reasons generally hold true in B&Bs globally.
The 10 reasons are:
Homely Atmosphere [Learn More]
Cultural Immersion [Learn More]
Homemade Breakfast [Learn More]
Support Local Business [Learn More]
Peace And Quiet [Learn More]
Access To A Kitchen [Learn More]
Romantic Getaways [Learn More]
Unique Stays [Learn More]
More Personal Service [Learn More]
Potentially Save Money [Learn More]
*To learn more about these 10 reasons, click here.
The 13 Types Of Bed And Breakfasts
While the bed and breakfast layout is fairly standard (bedrooms, bathrooms, common areas), properties vary widely in function and atmosphere. There are 13 types of bed and breakfasts (some are a hybrid of 2 or more types). You’ll find all 13 types on Agoda.com.
The 13 types of B&Bs are:
Boutique B&Bs [Learn More]
Luxury B&Bs [Learn More]
Budget B&Bs [Learn More]
Urban B&Bs [Learn More]
Rural B&Bs [Learn More]
Waterfront B&Bs [Learn More]
Mountain B&Bs [Learn More]
Farm Stay B&Bs [Learn More]
Themed B&Bs [Learn More]
Romantic B&Bs [Learn More]
Cultural/Historic B&Bs [Learn More]
Staycation B&Bs [Learn More]
Eco-Friendly B&Bs [Learn More]
*To learn all about these 13 types of B&B (with 5 examples of each type), click here.
What Type Of Traveler Typically Stays in A Bed And Breakfast?
So, why do travelers choose bed and breakfasts?
B&B stays are ideal for travelers seeking change from the “typical hotel experience”. B&Bs stays tend to be more relaxed than hotel stays and let guests interact with a local host and culture at their own pace.
Bed and breakfasts can be great for romantic getaways and staycations, as they balance service and privacy. Weekend stays are well-suited for those with hectic weekday schedules. Bed and breakfasts tend to attract couples, professionals, small families and retirees. Typically, guests book short stays (1 to 3 nights). I often choose B&Bs when visiting a rural or unique cultural area (like mountain towns). I’ve found B&B hosts are often proud to share their culture with you.
Still, the B&B experience may not be for everyone.
Staying in a bed and breakfast might be a poor choice for big groups, or families with children. Some hosts prohibit young children - as an attempt to maintain a calm atmosphere (many mature, older guests book B&Bs specifically for their calmer atmosphere).
B&Bs may also be a poor choice if you’re seeking a luxury experience. While bed and breakfasts can be luxurious, this would typically be in the finer details (think silk bedsheets, panoramic mountain views, an open-air balcony, etc.). But if you want large or many on-site amenities, like an on-site masseuse or infinity pool, you’re likely better off checking out hotels first.
Also, consider booking a hotel if you prefer large on-property facilities (such as a gym) or a high degree of privacy during your stay. Bed and breakfasts typically attract fewer solo travelers, as these travelers will often find greater value in a hotel, guest house or Airbnb.
Hotels typically offer more space and facilities
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
27 Frequently Asked Questions About Bed And Breakfasts (FAQ)
Why Is It Called “Bed And Breakfast”?
It’s called a “bed and breakfast” because you get a bed (room) and breakfast (complimentary) in your nightly rate. The key difference between a bed and breakfast and other popular lodging is the personal connection and service between the host and guests, the relaxed atmosphere, and the “care” put into breakfast.
Are Bed And Breakfasts The Same As Hotels?
No, a bed and breakfast is not the same as a hotel. These two lodging types vary in privacy, atmosphere and more. To read all about the key similarities and differences between bed and breakfasts and hotels, read our complete B&B vs. Hotels Comparison.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Serve/Include Breakfast?
Yes, most bed and breakfasts include a complimentary breakfast. Whether the breakfast is buffet or à la carte depends on the particular property/host, but the price of breakfast is typically included in your nightly rate. Still, always read the complete list of amenities before you book your stay. For exactly how to find a bed and breakfast that serves breakfast, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Serve/Include Lunch Or Dinner?
Some B&Bs serve lunch and/or dinner, others don’t. Of properties that serve these meals, some include it in their nightly rate, while others offer this option at an additional charge. To learn more about this topic (plus exactly how to find a B&B that serves lunch or dinner in your particular destination), click here.
How Many Meals Do You Get At A Bed And Breakfast?
While breakfast is typically included in your nightly rate, lunch and dinner options are less common and certainly not standard. “Half board” is a term used to describe lodging that serves two meals per day. “Full board” means three meals are served per day. To learn all about how lunch and dinner options work in bed and breakfast accommodation, click here.
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Serve Breakfast In Bed?
One common misconception about B&Bs is that breakfast is served in bed. While this occurs in some B&Bs, it’s not a standard amenity you should expect. If you’re seeking a B&B that serves breakfast in bed, try a Google search like “bed and breakfast that serves breakfast in bed in (your destination)”.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Have Private Bathrooms?
Bed and breakfasts may offer private (en-suite) or shared bathrooms - depending on the room and/or property you book. If a B&B offers both options, the private bathroom access will typically come with the higher-priced rooms, while lower-priced rooms will share bathrooms. If you do share a bathroom, it’ll typically be between you and other guest groups.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Have Shampoo?
Yes, bed and breakfasts typically include bath soap and shampoo in each guest room. Still, always read the full listing description and amenities before you book your stay, just in case. If you prefer a high quality shampoo and body soap, I recommend that you bring your own (many B&Bs provide the cheaper soaps and shampoos that are typically found in hotels). For the 5 items that every traveler should bring to a B&B stay, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Provide Towels?
Bed and breakfasts typically provide at least one bath towel and one hand towel per guest. Some hosts don’t replace towels during stays of only two nights, though you can request this. For 5 things every traveler should bring to a bed and breakfast stay, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Have Kitchens?
Bed and breakfasts often only have one single shared kitchen in the entire property. This is because many were initially built to function as a family home, then were later modified to function as a lodging business. For how to find B&Bs with kitchen access, click here.
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Can You Use The Kitchen At A Bed And Breakfast?
Yes, guests are typically allowed to use the kitchen at a bed and breakfast. Upon checking in, the host should tell you what you can or can’t use within the kitchen (ingredients, appliances, etc.). But do not assume you can use items without the host’s permission! For how to find a B&B that provides kitchen access, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Have TVs?
Some bed and breakfasts have a TV in a central room, some provide a TV per guest room, while others offer no TV in the entire property. If you want a B&B that includes TVs in the guest rooms, find this amenity on the listing. For how to find 10 common amenities that B&B guests often seek out in a stay, click here.
Can A Bed And Breakfast Serve Alcohol?
A bed and breakfast may be allowed to serve alcohol on-property if it has the requisite liquor licenses for its jurisdiction. In addition to operating as a lodging business, many B&Bs also include a public bar, restaurant or cafe. Such properties typically restrict outside customers from accessing the guest-only areas.
How Much Do Bed And Breakfasts Typically Cost?
Bed and breakfast rooms typically range from about $30/night to over $300/night. Of course, you’ll find cheaper and higher rates. Factors that affect nightly B&B rates can include: an area’s exclusivity, average lodging cost in a region (think Australia vs. Thailand), amenities offered and number of guests in a booking. For a step-by-step guide on how to find your ideal bed and breakfast, follow our B&B Booking Guide.
Where Are Bed And Breakfasts Typically Located?
The term “bed and breakfast” is used globally, but the name for this lodging type varies based on region. For example, you might encounter “pension” (in parts of Europe, Middle East and Asia), “gostevoy” in Russian-speaking countries, “pousada” in Portuguese-speaking countries, “gasthaus” in German-speaking countries, “casas particulares” in Cuba, “szálló” in Hungary, “minshukus” in Japan, among many other examples. To find the term used in a destination, Google search “what are bed and breakfasts called in (destination)”. B&Bs are often in rural areas (small towns, villages, etc.) rather than in large cities (called urban B&Bs).
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Where Are Bed And Breakfasts Popular?
Bed and breakfasts are popular in the United States (tens of thousands), UK and many other countries. Globally, I’ve found B&Bs to be the most popular in regions where the local culture is “unique”, such that visitors may prefer to stay/interact with a local host, rather than experience standard, generic hotels. I’ve also found that B&Bs aren’t particularly popular in destinations where visitors go to “spend money” (like Dubai or Las Vegas). I believe this is because travelers generally visit such places for their luxury options and tend not be particularly interested in experiencing the local “culture” or meeting local hosts in the area.
Can You Stay In A Bed And Breakfast All Day?
Yes, you can stay in a bed and breakfast all day (if you book a room). It’s normal, even expected, for guests to book a B&B stay as a great way to relax (they’re a very popular lodging option for weekend getaway trips).
How Many Rooms Can A Bed And Breakfast Have?
There’s no formal limit to the number of beds that a B&B can have. However, in my experience, properties rarely have more than 10 guest rooms. If there are too many guest groups, the atmosphere can begin to feel more like a typical hotel stay (feeling much busier).
Can You Smoke In A B&B?
B&B hosts typically don’t let guests smoke indoors. Some hosts may allow guests to smoke outside or on a private room deck. Ask your host if and where you can smoke before lighting up a cigarette. For exactly how to find a B&B stay that allows smoking, click here.
Do Bed And Breakfasts Have Curfews?
Some bed and breakfasts enforce guest curfews. In my experience, a curfew is more common in family-run B&Bs that lock their front door overnight (meaning a guest would be unable to re-enter). In any case, if you plan to leave your B&B for a late night out, be sure to let your host know before you leave, This way, they can tell you if you must return by a certain time, or give you the front door key or entrance instructions.
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Am I Supposed To Tip At A Bed And Breakfast?
Tipping your B&B host/innkeeper isn’t mandatory. In a typical large hotel, the reception staff, cleaning staff and bar staff are often different individuals. However, in family-owned bed and breakfasts, fewer people take on multiple roles. So if you enjoyed any aspect of your stay (breakfast, tours, etc.), it would be a kind gesture to leave a tip to show your appreciation.
What Are Bed And Breakfast Owners Called?
The owner of a bed and breakfast can hold various titles, depending on their role(s). Such titles include - proprietor, host, manager or innkeeper. B&Bs are often family-owned and operated, but not all B&B owners are involved in the daily business operations (like checking in guests and cleaning the property).
How Do Bed And Breakfasts Make Money?
Apart from hosting guests, a bed and breakfast could make money in a variety of ways. Some offer lunch or dinner at an extra charge, some host activities (such as guided hikes, wine tasting or city tours), some earn commission by recommending their guests to local tour operators or taxi drivers. Overall, monetization methods/options come down to the host’s creativity and the available opportunities based on the location. Hosts can advertise on booking sites like Agoda.com without incurring prohibitive marketing fees.
Are Bed And Breakfasts Profitable?
B&Bs can be very profitable if they offer something unique or exceptional for their guests (like a delicious breakfast, amazing tours and warm service). Over the past decade, the rise of home sharing and social media is encouraging travelers to seek out unique lodging.
Who Regulates Bed And Breakfasts?
Bed and breakfasts can be locally-regulated. Some jurisdictions regulate B&Bs the same as other lodging businesses (like hotels, resorts, etc.). In others, B&Bs operate in a sort of grey area - some operate without having to follow the same rules and regulations local hotels are subject to. To learn about the rules and regulations for bed and breakfasts in a destination, search “how are bed and breakfasts regulated in (your destination)” on Google, or search for specific rules and regulations (such as fire and food regulations, or zoning, kitchen, hygiene and legal requirements).
*To see today’s deals on B&Bs in your particular destination, click here.
Is A Bed And Breakfast A Commercial Property?
In some jurisdictions, bed and breakfasts operate as commercial properties and must follow all the same rules as other commercial lodging businesses. In other jurisdictions, B&Bs may operate without doing so. If you want to start a B&B, research rules in your area and connect with local bed and breakfast associations.
What Is “Air Bed And Breakfast”?
“Airbnb” stands for “Air Bed And Breakfast”. Many people ask, “What’s the difference between a bed and breakfast and air bed and breakfast?”. In short, Airbnb allows its hosts to list a wide range of lodging options (from single beds to entire islands) and helps travelers find and book those places. To learn more about this topic, read our full B&B vs. Airbnb Comparison.
Conclusion
Hopefully you found this guide helpful.
If you’re accustomed to the standard hotel experience, it can be intimidating to try something new. B&Bs are great for any traveler seeking charm, comfort and connection to a local host and culture. To learn more about bed and breakfasts, explore our guides below.
Enjoy your travels!
How To Find A Bed And Breakfast
Agoda.com provides bed and breakfasts for couples, solo travelers, groups and families. For today’s deals on B&Bs in your destination, click here. For a step-by-step guide showing you exactly how to find your ideal B&B, follow our B&B Booking Guide.
Learn More About B&Bs
Introduction To Bed And Breakfasts
10 Reasons To Experience A Bed And Breakfast [At Least Once]
How Much Does It Cost To Stay In A Bed & Breakfast? [Comparison Guide]
Get Started With Bed And Breakfasts
B&Bs vs. Hotels Comparison [Atmosphere, Price, Safety, Amenities]
B&Bs vs. Airbnb Comparison [Atmosphere, Price, Safety, Amenities]
Specific Types Of Bed And Breakfasts
How To Find A Bed And Breakfast With A Specific Feature [Step-By-Step]
How To Find A Bed And Breakfast With A Pool, Spa, Sauna Or Jacuzzi [Step-By-Step]
Know Before You Go
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