Hotel ratings guide
Check out the guide below to see how we calculate our ratings.
How we calculate our Star Ratings:
- Take the average rating on three top travel sites
- Factor in customer feedback -- we receive over half a million reviews per year
- Adjust the ratings downward if a majority of customers say we should
Regardless of a hotel's star rating, you should expect a quality experience from our hotel suppliers. This includes:
- A clean, comfortable room with daily housekeeping service (weekly for extended stay properties or condos)
- A private room
- Listed amenities in proper working order
If you encounter a problem during your stay, contact us and we will work directly with the hotel to solve it.
All decisions by Hotwire regarding the Star Ratings Guide, rebooking or compensation are final and binding.
See star rating descriptions
Most Distinguished 5-star hotels
These top-of-the-line hotels offer extraordinary service and levels of comfort sure to please even the most discriminating tastes. They typically feature:
- Elegantly-furnished guestrooms
- VIP amenities
- Award-winning dining
- Stylish cocktail lounge
- A high staff-to-guest ratio
- Other unique touches found only at the finest hotels
These properties are usually located in the most desirable city or resort locations.
Deluxe 4.5-star hotels
You can expect discerning service, luxury amenities, and tasteful décor from these deluxe hotels. They usually offer:
- Gourmet dining
- Stylish cocktail lounge
- Concierge services
- Elegant, intimate rooms
- Health and fitness center
- Business administrative center
- Turndown services
Shopping and dining are usually nearby.
Distinctive 4-star hotels
These distinctive establishments will bring you the premium service and amenities sure to make your stay more comfortable and convenient. They often feature:
- Gourmet dining
- Cocktail lounge
- Health and fitness center
- Business administrative center
- Guestrooms with upscale furnishings, bedding and bath products
- Concierge services
- Valet parking
These properties may be located in the hub of the city, resort areas, or near points of interest.
Classic 3.5-star hotels
These classic, polished hotels feature an excellent service level with quality amenities found at better hotels. They usually offer:
- A well-known, on-site restaurant
- Large, quality rooms
- Room service
- Health and fitness center
- Business administrative center
These properties are frequently located near convention centers and attractions.
Quality 3-star hotels
These quality establishments make comfort and personalized service their priority. These full-service properties usually feature:
- An inviting, relaxed lobby
- On-site dining
- Room service
- Family-style rooms
A business administrative or health and fitness center may also be available. You can find these hotels in downtown or resort areas, and also in smaller, suburban cities.
Midscale 2.5-star hotels
These midscale establishments offer solid service that's more than just the basics. Features often include:
- Guestrooms with couches and dedicated desks
- On-site dining
- An attractive, inviting lobby
A business administrative or health and fitness center may also be available. These properties are usually located near shopping or dining, and can be found in both downtown or resort areas and smaller cities.
Economy 2-star hotels
These economy establishments offer reliable accommodations with a few extra features. Features may include:
- In-room coffee maker
- Cable TV
- Alarm clock
- Continental breakfast
Off-site dining is usually located within walking distance.
