We think one of the many ways i-escape’s Kids Collection is ‘Awesome for Families’* is our extensive selection of family-friendly accommodation in cities across Europe. So if you’re planning a city break en famille, our Kids Collection Editor, Nadine, recommends these fab 5 places – all new, all super stylish, and all centrally located.
Santiago de Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal
Just opened (we were the first guests!), luxurious, and with 19 generously proportioned rooms, this 15th-century palace is now an elegant boutique hotel in Lisbon’s oldest district. Excellent for families, there’s a host of baby and toddler equipment on offer, 3 pairs of rooms are designated for families, and trams rattle past for easy exploring. There’s an all-day cafe, a bar, a destination restaurant and even a Beauty Bar. Best of all kids under 13 stay for free. Bliss.
Reykjavik Boutique Apartments, Reykjavik, Iceland
Also newly opened this year, is this trio of Scandi-chic apartments, beautifully decked out in atmospheric Nordic hues and a pleasing selection of vintage and classic furniture. The little house in the garden and the larger apartment both have a second bedroom which can be made up as a twin. The friendly owners have 2 daughters of their own and live in a fourth apartment on site; on hand for recommendations for Reykjavik and beyond. Sited right by the iconic cathedral and the main pedestrianised shopping streets, yet in a quiet residential area, everything is a 5-10-minute stroll away. And Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a thing of wonder for adults and children alike.
CasaCau, Rome, Italy
Truly a unique find: 6 individually styled boutique apartments brimming with character and detail. Retro and vintage pieces sit alongside mod cons such as complimentary iPads and saunas in the bathrooms. Three can host families, and 2 more can interconnect. You also get breakfast, daily cleaning and kitchenettes for easy self-catering, plus you’re in the heart of Rome with the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Spanish Steps all nearby.
Berdoulat & Breakfast, Bath, England
One of i-escape’s quirkier properties, this year-old boutique B&B (or house rental for 8) is so much more than a renovated Georgian townhouse. The English-Turkish owners have a design practice and their whimsical yet sure touch is evident throughout, from the library full of Penguin classics to the faithfully recreated wall colours and reclaimed stone fireplaces. Not only will you enjoy the homely atmosphere and excellent breakfasts (which can be tailored to kids), you’ll also find yourself in an unbeatable central Bath location.
Cima Rosa Venezia, Venice, Italy
A couple of years ago, the Italian-American owners of this divine Renaissance palazzo transformed it into a chic 5-room guesthouse. Today, they warmly welcome families (they have children of their own) and are eager to share their top sightseeing tips. Being the world’s most famous car-free city, Venice works well for a family break – you can get about by boat, how cool is that? Italian food is manna for kids, and the city’s best ice cream shop is just around the corner.
*We’re thrilled to have been recently named Awesome for Families Runner-Up at the Family Traveller Award 2015!
View our hand-picked collection of family-friendly city hotels.