The Guesthouse category varies according to country and it is hard to define a general consistency criterion. Guest houses may be privately owned homes that let rooms out or un-hosted, whole-house rentals designed for the exclusive use of the guests, with manager (host) living in a separate building within the property or off-site.

Guesthouses come in all sizes, locations and shapes. They range from practical townhouses and inner-city family homes with acceptable comfort, to luxury residences that offer a high standard amenities in boutique ambiance. A charming farmhouse and rancho in a rural area, where visitors can explore the local country life and benefit from activities like animal feeding, horse riding, fishing, etc., may be classified as a guest house too.

In different countries guesthouses have different features. In England they are at least 5-bed-roomed family houses or larger, professionally maintained properties (unlike B&B which feature less than 5 bedrooms). Like B&Bs they are classified as ‘Guest Accommodation’ by the English Tourist Board and have their own diamond-rating and Silver and Gold awards for quality accommodation and high level of service. The atmosphere is warm, friendly and less formal - despite having their own room the guests must share most of the domestic facilities with the hosts. Some of the typical amenities in the guestrooms are: cable/satellite TV, phone, tea/coffee making facilities, heating/air-conditioner, etc. Usually single, double/twin and triple and family rooms are available. Larger residences offer rooms with private bathroom facilities and spacious suites. Some provide facilities for holding small private functions, like wedding parties; free airport or railway station transfers, off-street parking, baby cribs, etc. are usually provided upon request.

As per food guesthouses may serve full cooked breakfast and other meals to general public (not only guests) or not provide meals at all.

Normally cheaper than hotels, guesthouses' overnight prices differ very much according to location (central or suburban if town-houses) and the range of facilities and services offered.