Lodging Question (cultural)

Some smaller places have limited "official" check-in times (for example 3pm - 7pm), which may be outlined on their website or on the booking confirmation. This allows them to make plans for the rest of their day without wondering when guests will show up, since they don't have the typical 24/7 staffed front desk like a bigger hotel might. It's usually possible to work out an alternative if you know you will arrive outside these times, but I would definitely check before you book and I would not just show up without confirming the details.
In my experience, it hasn't been a big deal as long as the owners know ahead of time so they can arrange to be there at the specified time or have a neighbor give the key, etc. Some places even have a "lockbox" type of thing for the keys that can be opened remotely or with a code you are provided with.

There is no general guideline or practice. If you don't want them to give your room to another paying customer, standing in front of them with cash in hand, you'd better discuss late arrival with each place individually. Smaller places may not even have someone working a front desk 24/7, or will lock the front door when the family retires.

Thank you all for such prompt and helpful responses! When I meant "anytime" I did assume "anytime" after mid afternoon. I'm more concerned about arriving at 8pm, for example. But you all have confirmed what I had hoped, that it would be case by case, as long as I have my plans determined in advance, I can make a specific request and see what they can do; work around it if necessary. Thanks again!

In Austria there is an offical stars rating scheme for hotels which defines the minimum requirements for each category.

4 or more stars: check-in desk/reception open 24 hours
3 stars: check-in desk/reception at least open 15 hours per day

Hi Melissa,

Sounds like it's straightened out. When dealing with family owned and run B&B's, Pensions and the like, we always let our hosts know our approximate time of arrival. Seems like the appropriate thing to do regardless of where we are. Plus, these places usually don't have a staff, but rely on family members to check people in, etc.

Hi,

Forget about corporate America rules/customs in Austria and Germany. When you make the reservations, even on-line, you may be asked to let them know around what time you will arrive. As a courtesy I call up the place a day or two before to inform them when I will be there. If you intend to arrive after 6 pm, I would heartily suggest calling them two days before. You don't want them to think that you're a no-show, (bei Nichtanreise).

When I make the reservation over the phone to stay at a small hotel or Pension in Germany and Austria, I am asked about time I'll arrive. Usually by noon or so, the rooms will have been cleaned for next guest.

You may check in anytime but you may not go to the room because it is not yet ready. If you say 3 pm, don't get there at 9 pm.

Hi,

Part 2 here...In a small family hotel/Pension, if you know for sure your arrival is not until 8 pm, definitely let them know that. What if you show up, and no one is around to open the door?

Just consider that in Austria all stores shut up between 6pm and 6.30pm; at 7pm there is a daily news program on TV and you can bet most families are starting their dinner at that exact moment. If your hotel is run by professionals you can assume there will be somebody at 8pm but it would be intelligent to write in advance and tell you will need a late check-in (they could consider you a no-show and give away your room). If the accommodation is in a family probably they can arrange if they know in advance but do not expect everybody is ready at 8pm waiting for you.