Introduction
When planning a trip to Germany – whether it is for business, studies, medical treatment, or leisure – one of the first decisions every traveler faces is the choice of accommodation. Hotels have traditionally been the most popular option, but in recent years, fully furnished apartments have become the go-to solution for both short-term and long-term visitors. The reasons are simple: more freedom, better value for money, and a homelike experience that hotels rarely provide.
In this article, we will explore seven key reasons why apartments in Germany, particularly in cities like Erlangen, often outshine hotels. Each point is supported by practical examples relevant to international guests, digital nomads, business travelers, students, and families.
1. More Space and Comfort for the Same Price
Hotels: compact but limited
A typical hotel room in Germany measures between 15 – 25 square meters, designed primarily for sleeping. There is rarely a proper living area or kitchen, and storage space is minimal. For a night or two, this may be acceptable, but for longer stays it becomes inconvenient.
Apartments: room to breathe
Fully furnished apartments, such as those offered by BOOK-IT in Erlangen, are typically 25 – 60 square meters or more. They include:
- a separate bedroom,
- a living/dining area,
- a private kitchen,
- modern bathrooms,
- sometimes a balcony or terrace.
This extra space creates a homelike environment where you can relax, invite colleagues or friends, or simply enjoy the comfort of not being confined to a single room.
2. Fully Equipped Kitchen – Freedom to Cook
Why cooking matters
Germany is famous for its bread, sausages, cheeses, and fresh produce. However, eating every meal in restaurants is expensive: a standard dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant in Bavaria costs €40 – 60 without drinks. For travelers staying longer than a few days, this adds up quickly.
Apartments offer flexibility
Having a fully equipped kitchen allows you to:
- prepare your own breakfast or coffee before meetings,
- cook family dinners with fresh local products from Erlangen’s weekly markets,
- follow dietary restrictions or preferences,
- save significantly on food expenses.
Many BOOK-IT apartments include modern kitchens with microwaves, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, and utensils. This makes them ideal for families, medical guests on specific diets, or anyone who prefers healthier, more affordable dining.
3. Ideal for Long-Term Stays
Hotels are short-term by design
Most hotels cater to overnight stays or weekend trips. If you try to extend your stay to several weeks, you will notice:
- higher prices,
- lack of laundry facilities,
- no discounts for longer periods,
- daily routines (like check-in or cleaning schedules) that feel disruptive.
Apartments fit naturally into long-term living
For business projects, student exchanges at FAU Erlangen, or medical treatments at the University Hospital, people often stay for weeks or months. BOOK-IT apartments are designed exactly for these needs:
- in-house laundry or washing machines,
- cleaning once per week rather than daily interruptions,
- discounts for long-term bookings,
- more sustainable living conditions.
In fact, many international visitors prefer apartments specifically because they can “settle in” without feeling like temporary guests.
4. Work-Friendly Environment
The rise of remote work and digital nomads
Since 2020, Germany has welcomed an increasing number of digital nomads, freelancers, and remote employees. For them, Wi-Fi speed, desk space, and quiet surroundings are as important as the bed itself.
Apartments support productivity
Unlike hotels where the only workspace is often a small corner desk, furnished apartments provide:
- high-speed Wi-Fi (essential for video calls and large file transfers),
- a proper table and comfortable seating,
- quiet neighborhoods away from heavy tourist traffic,
- flexible schedules with no housekeeping interruptions during meetings.
For professionals, this environment ensures productivity and helps balance work with leisure.
5. Privacy and Independence
Why independence matters
In hotels, guests depend on reception hours, housekeeping visits, and sometimes strict check-in/check-out rules. For independent travelers, this can feel restrictive.
Apartments = self-sufficiency
Apartments, especially those with self check-in systems, allow you to:
- arrive at night without stress,
- manage your own schedule,
- decide when to clean, cook, or relax,
- enjoy a private space without daily interruptions.
This level of independence is particularly valued by introverted guests, business travelers with irregular schedules, and couples looking for privacy.
6. Family-Friendly Solution
Hotels and families: a mismatch
Traveling with children in a hotel is challenging. Families often need two adjoining rooms, which doubles costs. There’s no kitchen to prepare baby food or snacks, and common areas rarely feel private enough for family bonding.
Apartments: space and facilities for everyone
BOOK-IT apartments in Erlangen are tailored for families:
- larger living space,
- kitchens for easy meal prep,
- washing machines for children’s clothes,
- cozy dining areas,
- safe, central locations near parks and playgrounds.
This makes them the most cost-effective and convenient choice for parents traveling with kids.
7. Live Like a Local
Hotels isolate, apartments integrate
Hotels often cluster in tourist-heavy zones, disconnecting guests from authentic local life. Guests eat in restaurants, follow hotel routines, and rarely experience daily German culture.
Apartments put you in the community
With an apartment, you can:
- shop at local bakeries and supermarkets,
- meet neighbors,
- cycle to work or university with BOOK-IT Bikes,
- enjoy the rhythm of life in Erlangen rather than staying in a “tourist bubble.”
For many travelers, this immersion is the highlight of their stay, giving them a sense of belonging rather than just passing through.
Conclusion
Choosing between a hotel and an apartment in Germany is ultimately about what you value most during your stay. If you want convenience, affordability, and a more authentic lifestyle, then apartments – like those offered by BOOK-IT in Erlangen – are the smarter choice.
They provide more space, fully equipped kitchens, long-term flexibility, work-friendly setups, privacy, family-friendly amenities, and the chance to live like a local. Whether you are in Erlangen for a few days or several months, apartments make your stay comfortable, productive, and cost-efficient.
Next time you plan a trip, skip the small hotel room. Instead, book a furnished apartment and discover the freedom of living in Germany like it’s your second home.