Reservations made directly with the hotel through its website, phone, or email - without third-party intermediaries.
A direct booking occurs when a guest makes a reservation directly with the hotel, bypassing third-party channels like OTAs. This can happen through the hotel's website booking engine, phone, email, walk-in, or social media. Direct bookings are commission-free, giving hotels higher profit margins per reservation and direct control over the guest relationship from the first interaction.
Direct bookings are significantly more profitable than OTA bookings. With OTA commissions typically ranging from 15-25%, a direct booking can save €30-50 or more on a €200 room night. Beyond cost savings, direct bookings give hotels ownership of guest data, the ability to build relationships before arrival, and opportunities for upselling and loyalty program enrollment.
