How to use a background video on your Hotel Website

10 Tips + How to Add One in the Smarthotel Editor

A well-chosen background video can instantly elevate the look and feel of your hotel website. It creates atmosphere, sets the tone, and gives guests a first impression of your brand — without saying a word.

This article explains:

  • How to add a background video in the Smarthotel Editor (Duda)

  • What to keep in mind when creating or choosing a video

  • 10 practical tips for a smooth, stylish result


How to add a background video in the Smarthotel Editor

You can add a video background to any full-width section that supports it.

Steps:

  1. Go to https://editor.smarthotel.nl and log in

  2. Hover over the section where you want to place the video

  3. Click Edit Section (or the paint roller icon)

  4. In the left panel, click “Background”

  5. Under “Media Type,” choose Video

  6. Paste your Vimeo or YouTube video URL

  7. Adjust overlay, opacity, or focal point if needed

  8. Click Done, then Publish

Tip: Upload your video to Vimeo Pro or YouTube for the best performance.
Uploading a raw file from your computer may reduce loading speed and is not recommended.


10 Tips for Using Background Videos Effectively

1. Use a placeholder image for smoother loading

Background videos always take a second or two to load. Set a cover image (usually the first frame of the video) so users don’t see a blank space. This creates a seamless transition.


2. Keep the video short

Short videos (15–30 seconds) load faster and loop more naturally. Long videos can feel slow or awkward when looping.


3. Use calm and steady footage

This is a background video — it shouldn’t distract from your website content. Use static shots or slow pans with little movement. Think: a beach at sunset, the hotel entrance, or people enjoying breakfast.


4. Use slow motion to add calm

Slowing down your footage helps keep the mood relaxed and refined. You can slow down most videos using basic editing tools or directly in Vimeo.


5. Limit to 2–3 subjects

Don’t turn your background video into a full hotel promo. Focus on one or two themes — such as the location, the building, or a relaxing moment.


6. Match each video to the page

Use different videos for different pages.

  • Homepage → a wide shot of the hotel or surroundings

  • Restaurant page → footage of dining or wine pouring

  • Location page → scenes from the local area or nature


7. Leave space at the top and bottom

Some of the top and bottom of your video will be cropped on different screen sizes. Make sure important parts (like building rooftops or logos) aren’t cut off.


8. Avoid adding text inside the video

Keep the video clean. Any text should be added in the editor, not baked into the footage. You can overlay a short phrase (3–5 words max) using a text widget if needed.


9. Create mood, not information

Your background video is about atmosphere, not detail. Think “calm beachfront” or “evening light on the patio,” not “tour of all hotel facilities.” Save your full promo video for the gallery or About page.


10. Start simple — and improve later

No perfect video yet? Start with a smartphone clip of a calm scene. You can always replace it later with a professionally edited video.


Need help uploading your video or choosing the right section?

Just send us an email at support@smarthotel.nl — we’re happy to help or advise.