How to Compare Hotels
Comparing hotels becomes easier when you focus on what actually shapes comfort, convenience and the pace of your trip.
These principles help you make a confident choice without endless browsing.
1. Start with location — everything else follows
The hotel matters, but the area matters more.
Check:
- walking distance to key places
- access to public transport
- neighbourhood safety and noise
- cafés, parks or basic shops nearby
A well-located 7/10 hotel often beats a 9/10 one in a poor location.
2. Compare room types, not hotel stars
Stars don’t describe how comfortable your room will be.
Look at:
- room size
- bed type and quality
- bathroom layout
- noise insulation
- window usability
- storage space
Most comfort comes from the room, not the rating.
3. Focus on the essentials — avoid feature overload
Many features are rarely used.
Prioritise:
- a comfortable bed
- reliable Wi-Fi
- a clean, practical bathroom
- proper heating or cooling
- a safe surrounding area
Everything else is optional.
4. Read photos carefully and look for the right clues
Photos often tell you more than reviews.
Look for:
- natural light
- modern vs worn rooms
- bathroom cleanliness
- real layout and space
- overall feel — tidy or cluttered
Inconsistent photos usually mean inconsistent rooms.
5. Use reviews strategically — not emotionally
Reviews are helpful when you filter them properly.
- the most recent ones
- repeated themes
- comments about noise, cleaning, Wi-Fi, beds
- travellers with similar needs
Ignore:
- emotional or vague reviews
- extreme ratings without detail
- complaints unrelated to the hotel
6. Compare bathrooms — they matter more than expected
Check:
- shower quality
- water pressure
- ventilation
- storage
- signs of recent refurbishment
A poor bathroom can affect the whole stay.
7. Consider breakfast and food logistics
Even if you don’t need a full restaurant.
- breakfast availability
- cafés or bakeries nearby
- realistic morning routines
- family-friendly options
- opening times
Poor breakfast logistics make mornings stressful.
8. Evaluate noise — the hidden deal-breaker
Noise is one of the most common complaints.
- bars or busy roads nearby
- floor level
- street vs courtyard orientation
- reviews mentioning noise specifically
Noise rarely gets better after check-in.
9. Choose for travel fit, not perfection
Hotel priorities vary by trip:
- city breaks → location
- family trips → space & food access
- business → desk, power, Wi-Fi
- beach → access & air-con
- weekends → comfort & atmosphere
Fit matters more than perfection.
10. Compare prices the right way
Price only makes sense with context:
- location
- room type
- included amenities
- cancellation rules
- season
A slightly higher price can save time and stress.
Summary
To compare hotels effectively:
- priorise location
- compare rooms, not stars
- check essentials
- use reviews wisely
- assess noise and bathroom quality
- choose based on trip type
A clear comparison leads to a hotel that works.