Half board in a hotel or resort means your room price includes two meals a day: usually breakfast and dinner , while lunch is not included and you pay for any extra food or drinks separately.

Quick Scoop: What ā€œhalf boardā€ really means

  • You get:
    • Your room.
    • Breakfast every day.
    • One main meal per day, most often dinner (sometimes you can choose lunch instead of dinner, but that’s hotel‑specific).
  • You don’t get:
    • Lunch (in most standard half board deals).
    • Most drinks beyond basics like tap water; soft drinks, cocktails, and many alcoholic drinks are usually extra unless stated.
* Room service or snacks between meals.
* Anything that belongs to ā€œall‑inclusiveā€ packages (like unlimited drinks, ice cream, or activities).

In other words, half board is designed for people who want the hotel to handle breakfast and an evening meal, but still be free (and hungry!) to explore cafƩs and restaurants during the day.