All you need to know about half board in hotels
Half board is a popular choice for several reasons. It is economically favourable compared to buying all meals separately. It also offers flexibility, as you can explore local restaurants during lunch while having breakfast and dinner included. For families with children, it is a practical solution as it creates fixed meal routines that make travelling smoother.
Many hotels and tour operators, such as TUI, Ving, Solresor and Apollo, offer half-board as a convenient alternative to full board and all inclusive. For some travellers, it's the perfect balance between convenience and flexibility. You can get your day off to a good start with breakfast at the hotel and a good dinner in the evening, but you can still have lunch wherever you like.
But what exactly is included in half board in hotels? And how does it differ from other options such as full board and all inclusive? In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about half-board, from what's usually included to the pros and cons, as well as tips on how to find the best half-board hotels.
Read on to get answers to questions like:
- What does half board mean?
- What is included in half board at hotels?
- Is half board worth it compared to full board?
Let's dive in and find out all about half board!
What is included in half board?
When you book a hotel with half-board, this means that two meals a day are included in the price, usually breakfast and dinner. For many travellers, it's not always clear exactly what is included in half board at hotels. Here we go through everything you need to know about meals, drinks and what to expect when you book a half-board hotel.
Meals included in half board
Breakfast
Half board normally includes two main meals: breakfast and dinner. Breakfast is usually served as a generous buffet with a wide range of both hot and cold dishes. You'll find everything from hot dishes such as eggs, bacon and sausages to fresh bread and pastries, yoghurt, cereals, fresh fruit and various spreads such as cheese, ham and marmalade. Coffee, tea and juice are always served. In smaller hotels, a simpler continental breakfast may sometimes be offered with a more limited selection, mainly consisting of bread, cold cuts and hot and cold drinks.
Dinner
Dinner can vary depending on the size and orientation of the hotel. In larger hotels and resorts, the most common form of service is a buffet, where you can choose from a wide range of both hot and cold dishes. Many hotels also organise theme nights where they serve specialities from different countries, and there is often a generous dessert buffet. In smaller and more exclusive hotels, à la carte dining is more common, where you can choose from a set menu of a few different options, usually consisting of 2-3 courses. In the case of à la carte, you may sometimes be required to pre-book your meal.
Drinks with half board
Many travellers specifically ask whether half board includes drinks, especially at dinner. Here is what typically applies:
When it comes to drinks, breakfast and dinner are slightly different. Breakfast always includes coffee and tea, and usually also juice and water. For dinner, it varies more between different hotels and chains. All-inclusive hotels naturally include all drinks, including wine, beer and soft drinks. In standard hotels, water is usually included, while other drinks are paid for separately. Some hotels offer the possibility to buy a drinks package in addition to the half board.
Tips for your half board holiday
- Always check what drinks are included when you book
- Ask about the possibility of drink packages
- Check the dinner times. Some hotels have fixed sittings
- Notify any allergies or dietary preferences in advance
Pros and cons of half board in hotels
When planning your holiday, the choice of meal arrangements is an important part of the experience. Half board in hotels has become an increasingly popular option for many travellers, but is it right for you? Here we go through all the pros and cons of half board to help you make the right decision.
Half-board means that two meals per day are included in the hotel stay, usually breakfast and dinner. This option is available at many hotels and is particularly common with major tour operators such as Solresor, TUI, Apollo and Ving.
Is half board the right choice for you?
When considering half board, it is important to think carefully about how it fits your particular travel needs. There are several advantages that make half board an attractive choice.
Advantages of half board
It's convenient to have dinner organised after a day full of activities, and it can be particularly cost-effective in more expensive destinations. For families with children who value routine, it's often an ideal option, and you won't have to spend time looking for restaurants every night. It also gives you good control over your holiday budget.
- Cost-effective in more expensive destinations
- Ideal for families with children who appreciate routine
- No more searching for restaurants every night
- Good for those who want to keep their holiday budget under control
Economically favourable
One of the most compelling arguments in favour of half board is the potential cost savings. Having breakfast and dinner included in the hotel price can often be significantly cheaper than eating out every night, especially in popular tourist areas where restaurant prices can be high. This also gives you better control over your travel budget as you know much of the food costs in advance.
Safe and convenient
Half board saves you the daily stress of searching for suitable restaurants, which is particularly valuable when you are in a foreign country. After a long day of activities and excursions, it can be nice to know that dinner is waiting for you at the hotel. This also provides peace of mind for travellers who are unfamiliar with the local cuisine or have special dietary needs.
Ideal for families
Half-board is particularly useful for families with children. Hotel restaurants are often child-friendly with adapted menus and high chairs. Fixed meal times also provide much-needed structure during holidays. In addition, many parents appreciate not having to take tired children on restaurant hunts in the evenings.
Socialising and relaxing
Half board offers the opportunity for a socialising experience where the whole family or travelling party gathers at the same time each evening. This can create a nice ritual and provide an opportunity to talk about the day's experiences in a relaxed environment.
Disadvantages of half board
But there are also some drawbacks to consider. Meal times may be less flexible and you risk missing out on local dining experiences. In countries with lower price levels, it is not always economically advantageous and your restaurant choices will be limited to the hotel's offer. Also bear in mind that drinks are usually not included with dinner.
- Less flexibility with times to suit
- May miss out on local dining experiences
- Not always profitable in cheaper countries
- Limited choice of restaurants in the hotel
- Drinks are usually not included with dinner
Limited flexibility
The most obvious disadvantage of half board is the reduced flexibility. You are tied to the hotel's meal times and miss dinner if you are travelling or want to eat later in the evening. This can feel particularly restrictive in countries where late dining is common.
Varying quality
The quality of food can vary greatly between hotels. While some offer delicious food with local specialities, others serve more standardised buffet food. This can become monotonous during longer stays, especially if you are a foodie and want to experience the local food culture.
The cost issue in low-cost destinations
In destinations where restaurant prices are low, half board can actually be more expensive than eating out. This is particularly true in countries in South-East Asia or some parts of Eastern Europe, where street food and local restaurants offer delicious meals at very favourable prices.
Missed culinary experiences
By eating most dinners at the hotel, you miss out on the opportunity to discover local restaurants and authentic food culture. For many travellers, dining experiences are an important part of the trip, and half board can limit these opportunities.
Who is half board suitable for?
Half board in hotels is best suited for:
- Families with children who value convenience and routine
- Travellers who want to be in control of their budget
- People who appreciate the convenience of set meals
- First time visiting a destination
The option may be less suitable for:
- Food enthusiasts who want to discover local restaurants
- Travellers who prefer flexible meal times
- Visitors to destinations with low restaurant prices
- People staying very long in the same hotel
Half board compared to other meal options
Which meal type suits you best?
When planning your holiday, the choice between half-board, full-board and all-inclusive is an important part of the decision. Here we compare the different options to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Overview of meal options
Breakfast only (Bed & Breakfast)
If you opt for breakfast only (Bed & Breakfast), you will receive a buffet or continental breakfast where coffee, tea and juice are usually included, while other meals are paid separately. This is ideal for city breaks where you want to discover local restaurants, if you plan to be away for most of the day, or if you prefer total flexibility with your meals.
Best suited for:
- City breaks where you want to discover local restaurants
- Travellers who are away for most of the day
- People who prefer total flexibility with meals
Half board
Half board includes breakfast and dinner, with drinks at breakfast and sometimes water at dinner, while other drinks are usually purchased separately. This option is ideal for families who like a set routine, travellers who want to control costs, and those who like to eat lunch out but want a guaranteed dinner at the hotel.
Best suited for:
- Families who want a regular routine
- Travellers who want to control costs
- Those who want to eat lunch out but have a guaranteed dinner
Half board plus
Half Board Plus is an upgraded meal option for those who want more included than regular half board but without choosing all-inclusive. In addition to breakfast and dinner, you'll often get drinks with your meal, as well as other benefits that may vary depending on the hotel. This may include a wider choice of dishes, themed dinners or even snacks between meals.
This type of meal is a popular option as it provides a convenient all-inclusive experience without locking you into the hotel restaurant for the whole day. Perfect for those who want an affordable and convenient holiday with more choice!
Flexible half board
Flexible half board allows you to decide whether you want to have lunch or dinner during your stay. Some hotels allow you to choose freely between the two meals each day, while others require you to inform them in advance, either the day before or in the morning, if you want to swap dinner for lunch. Whatever the arrangement, flexible half-board gives you the freedom to combine meals at the hotel with restaurant visits outside, making it an ideal option for those who want more flexibility while travelling.
Full pension
Full board includes all the main meals of the day - breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as drinks with breakfast and sometimes water with other meals. This is particularly suitable for travellers who want to have all meals at the hotel, families with young children who need regular meals, or for those who want maximum control over food costs.
Best suited for:
- Travellers who want all meals at the hotel
- Families with young children who need regular meals
- People who want to maximise cost control
All Inclusive
All-inclusive is the most comprehensive option and includes all meals, snacks between meals, all drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and often access to several restaurants. Sometimes it also includes various activities. This is ideal if you don't want to worry about extra costs, have children who eat often, enjoy unlimited drinks, or plan to spend a lot of time at the hotel.
Best suited for:
- Those who do not want to think about extra costs
- Families with children where children want to eat often
- People who enjoy unlimited drinks
- Travellers who plan to spend a lot of time at the hotel
What is included with the different travel companies?
What is included in TUI half board
TUI half board includes breakfast and a main meal, usually dinner. Some hotels offer a choice between lunch and dinner, but this varies from hotel to hotel. Meals are usually served in the hotel restaurant. Some hotels also offer à la carte. Drinks are rarely included in half board unless otherwise stated. For more information Read more.
What is included in Ving half board
Vings half-board means that breakfast and dinner are included, while drinks are usually paid separately. Meals can be served buffet style, plated or from a set menu, depending on the hotel's arrangements. Read more.
What is included in Solresor half board
Solresor offers half board with or without drinks.
Half board on Solresor means that breakfast and dinner are included. In some hotels you can choose to exchange dinner for lunch.
Half-board with drinks works in the same way but also includes drinks with the meal, which may include water, soft drinks, wine or beer depending on the hotel's rules. Read more.
What is included with Apollo half board
Half board at Apollo means that breakfast and dinner are included. Some hotels offer the option to swap dinner for lunch. Drinks with meals are not usually included, unless otherwise stated.
For those who want more, there is a half-board option including drinks, which also includes drinks with the meal, such as water, soft drinks, wine or beer depending on the hotel's rules. Read more.
Comparison: half board vs full board
When comparing half board with full board, half board has the advantage of providing more flexibility to discover local lunch restaurants, is usually cheaper, and is more suitable for those who want to be away from the hotel during the day. Full board, on the other hand, offers the security of having all meals included and is particularly suitable for families with young children.
Comparison: half board vs all inclusive
Compared to all-inclusive, half-board often offers a lower price, greater motivation to explore the area, and many times higher quality food. All-inclusive, on the other hand, offers the advantage of all costs being included from the start, with free access to drinks and snacks throughout the day, and often more restaurant options in the hotel.
Comparison: half board vs half board plus?
The main difference between Half Board and Half Board Plus is that you get drinks included with dinner and sometimes more choice at mealtimes. In regular half-board, you often have to pay extra for drinks, while in Half Board Plus, wine, beer, water and soft drinks may be included.
For some hotels, Half Board Plus may also mean access to more restaurant options, such as both buffet and à la carte.
Cost comparison
To give an example, we can compare approximate prices for a week for a family of four:
- Breakfast only: Basic price + about 4000-6000 SEK for other meals
- Half board: Basic price + about 2000-3000 SEK for lunches and drinks
- Full board: Basic price + about 1000-2000 SEK for drinks
- All inclusive: highest basic price but minimal extra costs
Tips for making the right choice
- Calculate the total cost including additional costs
- Think about your habits and preferences
- Research on the price level of the destination
- Check exactly what is included in each option
- Consider the season and the weather (affects how much you spend in the hotel)
The choice between half-board and other meal options depends very much on your travel situation, budget and preferences. Half-board offers a good balance between convenience and freedom, while full-board and all-inclusive are better suited to those who want everything organised in advance. Breakfast only is ideal for the adventurous traveller who wants to discover local eateries.
FAQ half board
Is half board worth it?
Whether half board is worth the price depends on several factors. It can be particularly beneficial in areas where restaurant prices are high, or if you are travelling with family and children. Half board can also be a good choice for remote hotels with few restaurants nearby, as well as for those who want to have good control over their food costs during their stay.
However, half-board may not be the best option if you are in a city with a rich restaurant scene or travelling in countries where food prices are generally low. It may also be less favourable if you're often out on excursions at dinnertime and risk missing the meals you've paid for. For foodies keen to discover local restaurants and food culture, it may also be worth considering forgoing half board.
Can I upgrade from breakfast to half board?
Most hotels offer the possibility to upgrade your booking from breakfast only to half board. This is best done before travelling, either by contacting your tour operator or by adding half-board directly in the booking system. It is usually more financially advantageous to make this upgrade before departure compared to waiting until you are on site.
If you want to upgrade to half-board during your stay, you can contact the hotel reception. They can often offer upgrades even for single days, but be aware that the price is usually higher than if you had booked in advance. The possibility of upgrading on the spot also depends on the hotel's availability at the time.
Can I choose lunch instead of dinner?
The possibility to choose lunch instead of dinner varies from hotel to hotel. This is more common in larger resort hotels and usually has to be pre-booked. Sometimes this may incur an additional cost.
What is half board plus?
Half Board Plus is an upgraded version of regular half board, where breakfast and dinner are included, but with extra benefits such as drinks or extended food options. Many hotels and tour operators, such as TUI, Apollo and Ving, offer Half Board Plus as a convenient option for travellers who want more included without opting for all-inclusive.
Is half board plus worth it?
If you want more included without going all the way to all-inclusive, Half Board Plus can be an affordable option. It provides a convenient and cost-effective solution, especially in hotels where drinks are otherwise expensive.To decide if it's worth the price, check what's included at the specific hotel and compare the cost with buying drinks separately.
What is flexible half board?
Flexible Half Board is an upgraded version of Half Board where you can choose when and how to use your included meals. Instead of being tied to breakfast and dinner every day, you get a certain number of meals to use freely during your stay. This means you can plan your meals around your excursions and activities, making for a smoother and more customisable trip.
What does continental breakfast mean?
Continental breakfast is a simple breakfast service that traditionally consists of coffee or tea, juice, bread or croissants, butter, jam and sometimes simple spreads such as cheese and ham.
This can be compared to a full breakfast buffet that also includes hot dishes such as eggs, bacon, vegetables, yoghurt, cereals and much more.
In the case of half-board, hotels usually specify what type of breakfast is included. Most modern hotels, especially in the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe, now serve a full buffet breakfast even if you have booked half-board. Continental breakfast is more common in smaller hotels, guesthouses or bed & breakfasts.
If you are unsure about what type of breakfast is included in your half board, I recommend that you check with the hotel or your tour operator, as it may vary between different establishments and destinations.
What is an American breakfast?
An American breakfast is a more substantial version of the continental breakfast. It usually includes hot dishes such as eggs cooked in various ways (fried, poached or as an omelette), bacon, sausages, hash browns and pancakes. Toast, bagels, fresh fruit, juice, coffee and often vegetables are also served. This is the type of breakfast that is standard in most major hotels today.
What is full board?
Full board includes all the main meals of the day, breakfast, lunch and dinner, at your hotel. Breakfast usually includes all drinks, while water is often included at lunch and dinner. Other drinks such as wine, beer and soft drinks are normally purchased separately, unless the hotel offers additional drinks packages. If you are interested in full board, you should check exactly what is included at your specific hotel, as the arrangements may vary.
What happens if you miss a meal?
In the case of missed meals, there is normally no compensation and meals cannot be saved for the next day. However, some hotels may offer packed lunches if you are going on an excursion. It is therefore advisable to contact reception in advance if you know you will miss a meal.
Does half board apply to all restaurants in the hotel?
Access to hotel restaurants varies from hotel to hotel. The main restaurant is always included in the half-board price, but speciality restaurants may have an additional cost. If you want to eat at the hotel's à la carte restaurant, pre-booking may be required.
Are there options for special diets?
For guests with special dietary needs, there are usually plenty of options. Most hotels offer vegetarian dishes, and vegan options are becoming more common. Gluten-free options are also usually available. However, it is important to inform guests of any allergies at the time of booking.
Tips for booking a hotel with half board
When booking a hotel with half board, there are a few different options to consider. Booking directly through the hotels' own systems often offers the best prices and more flexible cancellation terms, plus the benefit of direct contact with the hotel. Major tour operators such as TUI, Apollo and Ving offer good half-board options.
Smart to consider when booking:
To get the most out of your booking, it is wise to book well in advance for the best prices, compare different meal options and carefully read reviews specifically about the food. It may also be worth investigating whether the hotel offers drinks packages.
Who is half board best suited for?
Half board is particularly suitable for those travelling with children, want a good balance between freedom and convenience, or appreciate having dinner taken care of. It's also a good choice if you plan to eat lunch out during excursions and want to control most of the food costs.
Whatever you choose, it is important to carefully read the terms and conditions and check exactly what is included in the half-board package before booking. With the right preparation, half board can be an excellent choice for a comfortable and economical holiday.
Remember before you book
Compare prices between different booking sites and carefully read what is included in the half-board package at your hotel. In particular, look at: dinner options (buffet or à la carte), drinks packages and prices, meal times, the possibility of special diets and what other guests have to say about the food.
Conclusion
Half board is a good choice for many travellers, especially families with children and those who value a good balance between convenience and freedom. With good planning, it can be both an economical and convenient holiday solution that gives you more time to enjoy your trip.
Before booking, always check the exact conditions of your hotel, as the content of half-board may vary. With the right preparation and the right expectations, half board can contribute to a successful holiday without unexpected costs.
