In the past, more than 80 percent of all guests based their hotel selection on the star rating, which is awarded across borders in Germany and many other European countries. But what is behind the hotel star rating, and how do the categories differ?
The star categories of hotels are standardized ratings that describe the comfort, quality and services offered by a hotel. The German hotel and restaurant association DEHOGA standardized the award guidelines in 1996. The meaning may vary slightly depending on the country and organization, but in general the following descriptions apply:
1-Star Hotels:
Simple and Functional: Basic accommodation with the most essential facilities.
Room facilities: Bed, wardrobe, small table, chair, simple bathroom.
Service: Daily cleaning, possibly breakfast.
Other Features: Limited services and facilities, often in budget locations, usually cashless payment is possible.
2-Star Hotels:
Functional and Comfortable: Offers a bit more comfort and some additional services compared to 1-star hotels.
Room facilities: TV, phone, possibly a desk, better-equipped bathroom, dressing mirror.
Service: Daily cleaning, breakfast, possibly 24-hour reception.
Other Features: Additional amenities like Wi-Fi (often free) and possibly a restaurant or bar.
3-Star Hotels:
Mid-range: Provides a good balance between price and quality with extended services and facilities.
Room facilities: Higher quality furniture, minibar or refrigerator, safe, hairdryer.
Service: 24-hour reception, room service, laundry service.
Other Features: Restaurant, fitness room or pool, business facilities like meeting rooms.
4-Star Hotels:
Upscale and Comfortable: High standard of comfort and service with numerous amenities.
Room facilities: High-quality furniture and decoration, luxurious bathroom, bathrobes and slippers, coffee maker.
Service: Concierge service, valet parking, comprehensive room service, high-quality dining options.
Other Features: Spa and wellness facilities, top-class restaurants, extensive recreational facilities.
5-Star Hotels:
Luxury and First-Class: Highest standard of luxury, comfort and service.
Room facilities: Exclusive and high-end furniture, large and luxurious bathrooms, extensive amenities like high-end electronics, high-quality cotton bed linens.
Service: Personal butler service, chauffeur service, comprehensive concierge services, multilingual staff.
Other Features: Exclusive gourmet restaurants, comprehensive spa and wellness areas, luxurious recreational and sports facilities.
Decrease in classified hotels
Hotel stars have long indicated the quality of accommodation - but their importance appears to be dwindling. More and more establishments are relying on online reviews. According to figures from the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), the number of classified hotels has decreased significantly in recent years.
In 2011, just over 8,200 hotels were awarded stars; in 2025, this number will fall to just around 6,300. The proportion of classified hotels in Germany fell from around 60 percent in 2015 to around 50 percent in 2022.
Digitalization has changed information and booking behavior. Vacation accommodations are now predominantly searched for online. Seals of verified quality are supplemented by user reviews on online portals.
Hotel operators view stars as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they offer a reliable standard, but on the other, hotels may forgo classification for economic reasons. This is particularly understandable in economically challenging times.
Revised Criteria for Hotel Stars
The European Hotel Stars Union (HSU) adopted a new catalog of criteria at its general assembly on April 24, 2024, in Budapest. Sustainability, staff shortages, and digitalization played a central role in the revision.
The new classification catalog has been reduced from 247 to 239 criteria. Some requirements have been deleted or combined. For example, there are new recommendations for mattress cleaning to meet hygiene requirements and extend their lifespan. Additional changes of bed linen and towels are only provided at the guest's express request.
Digitalization is being given greater consideration: Fully automated check-in and check-out services are now also recognized for 4-star hotels as an alternative to the traditional reception desk. Self-service kiosks can also replace traditional room service or the minibar.
HSU member countries had until January 1, 2025, to implement the new catalog at the national level. The complete criteria can be viewed at hotelstars.eu.
General Notes:
A look at the stars helps when comparing hotel standards, but should only serve as a guide. There are numerous establishments that meet the highest standards despite not having a star rating. In addition to the star rating, factors such as location, cleanliness, and guest reviews play a decisive role in choosing the right accommodation.
Not every establishment strives for a star rating, so in principle all guesthouses as well as guesthouses and vacation homes can meet high standards.
We hope you enjoy choosing your accommodation! In our references under PROJECTS, you can see in which hotel categories we have already worked.