How do you promote a bed and breakfast

Promoting a bed and breakfast (B&B) requires a mix of local charm, digital presence, and personalized marketing—because guests choose B&Bs for authentic experiences rather than standardized stays. Here’s a complete strategy that works in 2025:


1. Optimize Your Website for Direct Bookings

Your website is your #1 sales tool.

  • Mobile-first design: Most travelers book on mobile.
  • High-quality visuals: Show cozy rooms, homemade breakfast, local attractions.
  • Booking engine: Instant, easy, with clear cancellation policy.
  • Add “Best Price Guarantee” badge and perks for direct booking.

💡 Pro Tip: Use storytelling on your site—talk about your B&B’s history, your family, and what makes it unique.


2. Leverage Google Business Profile

  • Claim your Google Business Profile and keep it updated (photos, amenities, rates).
  • Collect Google reviews regularly.
  • Post updates about seasonal offers or special breakfast menus.

Why? Guests search “bed and breakfast near [destination]” → Google Maps is your first impression.


3. Use Social Media to Showcase Personality

Guests book B&Bs for the experience—show it!

  • Instagram & Facebook: Post cozy room shots, breakfast spreads, behind-the-scenes moments.
  • Reels/TikTok: Short videos of food prep, local tips, or guest testimonials.
  • Use hashtags like #bnbstay, #bedandbreakfastlife, #[yourdestination]getaway.

💡 Pro Tip: Share local insider tips—best café, hidden hiking trail, local events. Guests love it.


4. Partner with Local Businesses

  • Collaborate with cafés, wineries, tour guides for package deals (e.g., “Stay + Wine Tasting”).
  • Cross-promote on social media and websites.
  • Offer guest referral discounts for local attractions.

5. Email Marketing for Past Guests

Your past guests are your easiest revenue source.

  • Collect emails at check-in.
  • Send monthly newsletters with:
    • Seasonal packages
    • Events in your area
    • “Book early” or loyalty discounts

💡 Pro Tip: Personalized emails like “We miss you! Here’s 10% off your next stay” convert well.


6. Use OTAs, But Drive Direct

  • Yes, list on Booking.com & Airbnb for visibility.
  • Use them to attract new guests, then convert them to book direct next time with perks:
    • Free breakfast upgrade
    • Early check-in for direct bookings

7. Offer Seasonal & Themed Packages

Guests love curated experiences.
Examples:

  • Romantic Weekend Escape → prosecco, late checkout
  • Foodie Experience → cooking class, farmers’ market tour
  • Digital Detox Stay → no screens, yoga in the garden

8. Encourage Reviews Everywhere

  • Google, TripAdvisor, OTAs, Facebook.
  • Respond to every review (positive or negative) warmly and professionally.

💡 Reviews = trust = bookings.


9. Focus on Local SEO

Rank for searches like:

  • “Bed and breakfast near [destination]”
  • “Cozy B&B for couples in [city]”
  • Optimize blog posts: “Top Things to Do Near Our Bed and Breakfast”

10. Add a Personal Touch

What makes B&Bs stand out? YOU.

  • Include a welcome note or small gift (homemade jam, cookies).
  • Share your story on your website and social media. Guests connect with authenticity.

🔥 Quick Wins for 2025

  • Add WhatsApp chat for direct communication.
  • Use Instagram Highlights for reviews and breakfast menus.
  • Run Google Ads for “B&B near [location]” during peak booking season.

Join my Inevitable Hotel Success Program or request a Direct Booking Audit. I’ll show you how to grow your subscriber list AND turn those subscribers into bookers—without relying on OTAs. 👉 Click here to learn more.

For more practical tips don’t forget to join our free resource library for more practical tips and trainings to help you boost direct bookings or check out my Youtube Channel.