The Insider’s Guide to Making the Most of Hotel Concierge Services

The key to making the most of concierge services is knowing how to ask. While Google is great for research, nothing’s quite as helpful as local expertise. A quick call with a concierge can lead to exclusive experiences, VIP treatment, and even off-the-menu perks. Ahead, a closer look at how to tap into their knowledge and elevate every stay.

Meet the Experts:

John McKinnon, Lead Concierge at The Dagny Boston and Director of Membership for the Greater Boston Concierge Association

Alexandra Sohyly, Assistant Head Concierge at Pan Pacific London

Know What Services Hotel Concierges Offer

No matter the request, John McKinnon, Lead Concierge at The Dagny Boston, is committed to creating an unforgettable stay. “Whether they are looking to embark on a culinary journey with reservations at the city’s finest dining establishments or seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure through private day tours, we are here to assist,” he says. “Rest assured that no request is too challenging for us.”

While a hotel concierge can handle the essentials—dining reservations, transportation, and event tickets—they often go beyond that. From securing VIP access and arranging in-room surprises to organizing private shopping experiences and exclusive tours, their connections open doors most travelers wouldn’t find on their own. At pet-friendly hotels, some even arrange grooming, dog walking, or finding pet-friendly activities nearby.

Tell Them Exactly What You Want

“Just inform us of your requirements, needs, and wants, and we will leverage our extensive network throughout the city to match you with the perfect individual or business to meet your needs,” says McKinnon. The more details shared, the better the concierge can tailor recommendations—whether it’s snagging a last-minute dinner reservation, finding a hidden gem, or planning something totally unique. If there’s room for flexibility, mentioning it can open the door to even better experiences. The key is being specific so the concierge can make things happen smoothly. “One of the biggest benefits of having access to a concierge team is their wealth of knowledge about the most memorable activities for visitors,” says Alexandra Sohyly, Assistant Head Concierge at Pan Pacific London.

Even If It’s an Emergency

Most people don’t realize it, but concierges can help with more than just reservations—even in a pinch. “Guests should always go to the concierge when they have a ‘dilemma,’” explains McKinnon. “Concierges are problem solvers; we are always figuring out solutions to all types of situations.” As for what kind of dilemmas? “Guests come to concierges with major travel mishaps, such as lost passports or flight delays, and may also come to us for little moments where they need assistance, like finding the best local pharmacy nearby to help with an oncoming cold,” notes Sohyly.

As For Their Limits?

Concierges can work wonders—securing impossible reservations, organizing special tours, or tracking down last-minute gifts—but they do have some limits. As McKinnon puts it, “As long as it’s within the bounds of legality and ethics, concierges will be willing to assist guests with their needs.” If something’s out of their control, like the weather, it might not be possible to make it happen, but they’ll work to find alternatives to make sure the guests are happy.

Planning For Your Next Trip

From getting tough-to-book dinner reservations to organizing unique experiences, concierges are your next trip’s secret weapon. Just be clear about what you want, trust their recommendations, and stay open—you never know what they might have up their sleeve. While many people don’t take full advantage of concierge services, their local knowledge and connections can make a huge difference. Before your next trip, reach out to the concierge with your interests and any special requests. A little planning goes a long way, no matter where you might be going.