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Last Updated: January 2026

Best Hotel Guest Messaging Platforms 2026

A comprehensive comparison of guest messaging solutions to help you communicate with guests on their preferred channels.

Comparison

Opally
Recommended

Unified AI platform that handles guest messaging across email, chat, WhatsApp, and more with intelligent automation.

4.8
Best For

Hotels wanting AI-powered messaging across all channels

Pricing

From $199/month per property

Pros
  • Unified inbox for all channels
  • AI-powered responses
  • WhatsApp Business API integration
  • Deep PMS integrations
Cons
  • Premium pricing for full features
  • Newer platform than some alternatives

Whistle for Cloudbeds

Guest messaging platform deeply integrated with Cloudbeds PMS for properties using that ecosystem.

4.4
Best For

Cloudbeds users wanting native messaging

Pricing

From $99/month

Pros
  • Native Cloudbeds integration
  • Simple setup
  • Affordable pricing
Cons
  • Limited to Cloudbeds ecosystem
  • Basic automation capabilities
  • No AI responses

Akia

Guest messaging focused on contactless experience and upselling, popular in North American markets.

4.3
Best For

Hotels focused on contactless and upselling

Pricing

Custom pricing

Pros
  • Strong upselling features
  • Contactless check-in integration
  • Good automation templates
Cons
  • Less European language support
  • Limited email capabilities
  • Higher pricing tier for AI

Bookboost

European guest messaging platform with CRM capabilities and multi-channel communication.

4.2
Best For

European hotels wanting CRM + messaging

Pricing

From $150/month

Pros
  • Strong CRM features
  • GDPR compliant
  • Good European support
Cons
  • Complex setup
  • Separate modules for features
  • Limited AI capabilities

How to Choose

1

Identify Your Primary Channels

Determine where your guests prefer to communicate - WhatsApp, SMS, email, or webchat. Choose a platform strong in those channels.

2

Consider Automation Needs

Basic templates or AI-powered responses? Higher automation levels reduce staff workload but cost more.

3

Check PMS Compatibility

Deep PMS integration enables personalized messaging with guest data. Verify your PMS is supported with full features.

4

Evaluate Multi-Language Support

International properties need platforms that communicate in guest languages, not just interface translations.

5

Test the Guest Experience

Sign up for trials and message yourself. Evaluate speed, personalization, and how natural conversations feel.

Methodology

This guide evaluates guest messaging platforms based on channel coverage, automation capabilities, PMS integrations, pricing, and user reviews from European hotels. Research conducted January 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do guests actually use hotel messaging?

Yes. Studies show 70%+ of guests prefer messaging over phone calls. Younger travelers especially expect WhatsApp and text communication. Hotels offering messaging see higher satisfaction scores.

Is WhatsApp Business API worth the investment?

For European hotels, absolutely. WhatsApp is the dominant messaging app and guests expect it. The API enables automated responses, templates, and integration with your systems.

Can messaging platforms replace email?

Not entirely. Email remains important for confirmations, invoices, and detailed information. The best approach is unified platforms that handle both messaging and email.

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5-minute setup
GDPR compliant
English support
Best Hotel Guest Messaging Platforms 2026 - Complete Guide