Italy offers a wide range of accommodation options; you just need to choose. Not sure where to start with all these choices? We'll help you out!
Types of Accommodation
When it comes to types of accommodation, you can choose from hotels, apartments, holiday homes, or something more specific, like mobile homes in campsites. It depends on whether you prefer the comfort and services of a luxury hotel or the tranquility of nature.
Hotels
In hotels, you can choose between various standards, indicated by stars. Five-star hotels offer luxurious accommodation with the highest level of services, often including wellness centers, pools, and gourmet restaurants. Four-star hotels maintain a high standard of services, with comfortable rooms and quality facilities. Three-star hotels are comfortable and affordable, ideal for families and couples. Hotels with fewer stars offer basic accommodation for travelers with a smaller budget.
Apartments
Another option is apartments, which can vary in size. There are Studio apartments (small and cozy, ideal for couples or individuals), one- or multi-bedroom apartments (depending on how many people are traveling and how much space you need). There are also Luxury apartments, offering exclusive services and often a beautiful view of the sea or historical centers.
Villas
Villas or holiday homes are a great choice for those looking for maximum privacy, amenities, and space like at home.
Bed and Breakfast (B&B)
A "bed and breakfast" (abbreviated B&B) means that guests are provided with accommodation and breakfast. This type of accommodation is often smaller and more personal than hotels, often run by owners who also live on the property. Services and amenities may vary, but generally include a private room or apartment that may be equipped with a bathroom (either private or shared). Breakfast is included in the accommodation price and is usually served in a common dining area. B&Bs are often preferred by travelers seeking a more personal, authentic vacation experience.
Campsites
Camping is no longer just about sleeping in a tent or caravan. Modern campsites offer accommodation options that allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature and all the benefits of camping without the need to own or rent a tent or caravan. Typically, these accommodations are in bungalows or mobile homes.
Types of Apartments
Italy offers various types of rooms and apartments that cater to the needs of individuals, couples, families, and larger groups. Terms like "bilo" and "trilo" are often used to indicate the size and arrangement of apartments.
Monolocale (Mono/Studio)
A single room that serves as a living room, bedroom, and kitchenette, often with a separate bathroom. Suitable for 1-2 people. Ideal for individuals or couples looking for compact and economical accommodation.
Bilocale (Bilo)
An apartment with two rooms - one bedroom and a living room with a kitchenette. Typically accommodates 2-4 people. Perfect for couples or small families who want more space than a studio offers.
Trilocale (Trilo)
An apartment with three rooms - two bedrooms and a living room with a kitchenette. Typically accommodates 4-6 people. Ideal for families or small groups needing more bedrooms.
Quadrilocale (Quadri)
An apartment with four rooms - three bedrooms and a living room with a kitchenette. Typically accommodates 6-8 people. Suitable for larger families or groups of friends who need more space and privacy.
Pentalocale (Penta)
An apartment with five rooms - four bedrooms and a living room with a kitchenette. Typically accommodates 8-10 people. Ideal for large groups or multiple families wanting to share accommodation.
Types of Rooms
Hotel rooms also have their specific designations; here are examples of room types in hotels or B&Bs.
Single Room - SGL
A room with a single bed, often with a private bathroom. Designed for 1 person. Ideal for solo travelers on business or short stays.
Double Room - DBL
A room with a double bed or two separate beds, often with a private bathroom. Designed for 2 people, perfect for couples or friends.
Triple Room - TPL
A room for 3 people, with three beds or a double bed and a single bed. Ideal for families with one child or three friends.
Quadruple Room - QPL
A room designed for 4 people, usually with a double bed and two single beds or four single beds. Perfect for families or groups of friends traveling together and sharing one room.
Family Room
A spacious room that may have multiple beds or separate bedrooms. Capacity is variable, often for 4-6 people. Ideal for families with multiple children or groups of friends.
Connected Rooms
Connected rooms offer privacy for parents while children can access directly from their room without going into the hallway. These rooms can have either individual or shared bathrooms.
Suites
Luxury rooms that include separate bedrooms and living spaces, often with better views and exclusive services. Capacity is variable, often for 2-4 people. Ideal for couples seeking luxury, business travelers, or families looking for comfort.
Types of Meals
When choosing accommodation, it’s important to consider the type of meals included. Here are the options you may encounter:
- BB (Bed & Breakfast): Accommodation with breakfast, ideal for those who want to explore local restaurants during the day.
- HB (Half Board): Half board includes breakfast and dinner. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at lunchtime.
- FB (Full Board): Full board includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ideal for those who want meals fully arranged.
- AI (All Inclusive): All in one – breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks. Perfect for those who want a worry-free holiday.
- HB+ (Half Board Plus): Half board with drinks included during meals.
- FB+ (Full Board Plus): Full board with drinks included during meals.
- BBB (Bed & Breakfast with Beach): Accommodation with breakfast and beach service.
- HBB (Half Board with Beach): Half board with beach service.
- FBB (Full Board with Beach): Full board with beach service.
Always check the specific services included in the description. For example, some hotels offer unlimited drinks during meals, while others provide a limited amount, such as 1/4 liter of wine and 1/2 liter of water per person. Be sure to read the description of the specific accommodation carefully.
