When you are looking for a place to stay in Europe you have so many options, but what is the difference between them all? Here are some guidelines to what is available.

Resort Hotels – these are hotels that are large and are usually found near beaches, ski areas or even attractions. They may include spas, gambling or other activities depending on their location. Resorts near theme parks, such as Disneyland, are often decorated and landscaped to tie in with the park.

Mega Resorts – is a resort hotel but, as the name implies, is one that covers many acres of land and has lots of facilities and activities (such as golf courses and tennis courts).

All Inclusive Resort – is one in which most or even all of your meals and other expenses (including tips) are already paid for.

Bread and Breakfast – are a more homelike type of lodging. These are usually either someone’s current home or a house that has been converted. Bathroom facilities are usually shared in this type of lodging. Breakfast is served most commonly in a dining room where you will eat family style.

Castles – Castles are expensive to maintain, therefore many have turned their property into hotels. While it may seem out of reach for most people, many castles have reasonable room rates. In fact they can be less expensive than many hotels. Just be aware when booking rooms in these older structures, you may not have access to air conditioning or in some cases elevators.

Hostels – Hostels provide inexpensive, sometimes as low as $20.00 per night, lodging. This option is not for everyone! There will be no room service, minimal privacy (you will be sharing a room) and showers may or may not be available. You will have the opportunity however to meet new people and you can stay in some amazing places including castles, ships, villas, or even jumbo jets!

Renting – You can actually rent a home for only a week or more! This option is great for a group or family who want to feel more like a native in the area they are visiting. This option also helps with food costs since you can shop and cook “at home.”

Camping – There are campgrounds located all throughout Europe. Adventurous travelers, who enjoy backpacking, and saving money, can travel by foot. Not that adventurous? Then you can also rent an RV or Camper and stay in motor campsites as well.

As you can see the lodging options in Europe are numerous and varied. So when planning your next trip think not only about where you want to go but what lodgings you want to stay in.