The star rating of hotels is a key factor for travelers worldwide when assessing the quality and facilities of a hotel. In Europe, some countries have a mandatory classification, while in others it is voluntary.

Countries with mandatory classification include Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain and Hungary.

Germany, France and Great Britain, on the other hand, allow classification on a voluntary basis.

Differences between 4- and 5-star hotels: Quality in detail

Many travelers wonder what the difference is between a 4-star and a 5-star hotel. Generally, 5-star hotels are expected to offer higher quality and more comprehensive service. This can be reflected in more exclusive amenities, first-class service staff and upscale cuisine.

When entering a 4-star hotel, guests already expect a certain level of comfort and an upscale atmosphere. But what sets a 5-star hotel apart from its more modest counterpart? Let's do a detailed comparison to shed light on the luxurious nuances of the 5-star experience.

1. Room facilities:

4-star hotel: The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped. They usually have a private bathroom with basic amenities and modern furnishings.

5-star hotel: Here you enter spacious oases of relaxation. The rooms are equipped with luxurious furniture, high-quality bedding and exquisite bathroom fittings. In some cases, guests can even choose between different pillows and duvets to maximize their personal comfort.

2. Services:

4-star hotel: The service is professional and courteous. Multilingual staff is available to assist guests with their needs.

5-star hotel: The service in a 5-star hotel is personalized and goes far beyond expectations. Here, one can access a personal concierge service that takes care of individual requests. Guests often have access to a personal butler who takes care of every detail of their stay.

3. Gastronomy:

4-star hotel: The restaurants offer a wide range of delicious dishes, often regionally inspired. The breakfast selection is extensive and satisfying.

5-star hotel: In a 5-star hotel, eating becomes a culinary journey. Several gourmet restaurants serving international cuisine are available to guests. The wine list is hand-picked and includes carefully selected wines from around the world.

4. Additional amenities:

4-star hotel: Fitness rooms, pools and wellness areas are common but rather standardized.

5-star hotel: Here the wellness area becomes a luxurious spa experience, and fitness rooms are equipped with the latest technology and personal trainers. There are often even private beach areas or special access to exclusive events for hotel guests.

Conclusion:

At a 5-star hotel, luxury goes beyond expectations. Every detail is carefully curated to provide guests with an unparalleled experience. From room amenities to service to dining, 5-star hotels focus on the highest quality and exclusivity to create a stay to remember. It is the attention to detail and dedication to exceptional service that make the difference between a luxurious 5-star experience and a solid 4-star stay.

In the 4-star hotel:

• Minibar and room service for 16 hours

• Armchair or couch with side table

• Bathrobe & slippers if required

• Cosmetics & heated bathroom

• Breakfast buffet, alternatively breakfast menu with room service

• Hotel bar

• Reception open 16 hours a day, 24 hours a day

In a 5-star hotel you can expect even more:

• Internet-enabled device in the room on request

• Reception is staffed 24 hours a day with multilingual staff

• 24 hour room service for food & drinks

• Shoe shine and ironing service

• personalized greeting

• Reception hall with drinks service

The myth of 7-star hotels: reality or fiction?

There is a widespread myth about 7-star hotels, but in reality there is no official 7-star classification. Hotels with this label often use it for marketing purposes to emphasize their exclusivity. The official star classification ends at 5 stars.

Looking to the future: New catalogue of criteria from 2025

The Hotelstars Union recently adopted a provisional catalogue of criteria for the period from 2025 to 2030. This places greater emphasis on digitalization, sustainability and resource conservation in the human resources sector. Flexibility and transparency are to be increased in order to make hotel classification in line with the market. The update takes place every five years, and from January 1, 2025, the new criteria will be binding for all 21 member countries of the Hotelstars Union until 2030.

For further information and the provisional catalogue, please visit the website hotelstars.eu .

The world of hotel stars does not remain static, but adapts to current needs and trends in order to offer guests worldwide orientation, transparency and high quality.