arte Hotel Kufstein in Kufstein

Major disappointment – 4 stars only on paper!!!

We stayed at arte Hotel Kufstein from May 30 to June 1, and I must say this was one of the most disappointing hotel experiences I’ve ever had – especially from a property advertising itself as a 4-star hotel.

Right from the start, the hotel tried to charge an additional pet fee for two days, even though our reservation clearly stated the pet was included in the price. Unfortunately, this was only the beginning of a series of unpleasant surprises.

Air conditioning was unavailable – despite being advertised in every room. Temperatures hit 30°C outside, and our room was 26°C. When I asked about it, staff openly admitted that management is aware but the system is only turned on starting June 2 – a blatant case of misleading advertising and failure to meet promised standards.

Staff were uninterested, cold, and unhelpful. They brushed off every issue I raised – broken shutters (which they already knew about), dirty floors and windows, missing hair dryer – with no intention of solving anything. One receptionist even told me, "Yes, management knows. But we can’t do anything."

Breakfast was a disaster. A poor selection (mostly eggs, some cheese, and bread), unstocked buffet, visibly overwhelmed and sweaty staff who were snappy and visibly frustrated. For €535 for 2 nights including breakfast and parking, I expected a basic level of quality and service – which we absolutely did not receive.

Additional issues:

We were not informed about the Kufsteinerland Card, a wonderful city benefit that includes free entry to the Fortress and a chairlift ride. We learned about it only from the staff at the fortress. We did receive the card at the hotel, but only after explicitly demanding it, and much too late to make the most of it. A hotel of this category should promote such a guest-friendly perk proactively.

No welcome water, no clear instructions for emergencies or late-night issues (reception is closed after 10 PM, with no alternative contact or guidance given).

The room lacked attention to cleanliness and detail.

At check-out, I voiced my complaints and was offered either a deduction of one breakfast or free parking – a gesture that felt more like an insult than a resolution.

This hotel does not live up to its 4-star rating or its pricing. I absolutely do not recommend it and will never return.