The main problem with taking a family on a city break is.........? Finding suitable accommodation. Anyone who's tried it will know that hotels can be expensive. You need two interconnecting rooms or one very large one. They can also be inflexible and noisy.
But, there is a simple solution. Book an apartment. Apartments range from stand alone properties in a residential block, to apartment / hotels (a block of apartments with a reception and some of the facilities of a hotel) to apartments within a hotel (with access to restaurants and all of the hotels facilities).
When the children get tired or bored, you can take them back to your apartment and relax without feeling cooped up. Meals can be taken in the apartment, reducing costs. And, the children can get to bed at a reasonable time in a more 'normal' environment.
Not only that, but, the cost of booking an apartment is usually cheaper then booking into a smart hotel room. A two room (or one bedroom) city apartment will usually cost you about the same as a double room in a 4 star hotel in the same city. So for the cost of one 4 star hotel room, you will typically get a bedroom with one double or twin beds, a sitting room with a sofa bed, a bathroom and a kitchen(ette).
The main disadvantage of booking an apartment is that you're never quite sure of what you are getting until you get there. This is where the internet helps. A quick search on "apartment name" via any search engine will usually throw up some comments, and you can take it from there.
Other than feedback from people who've been there (ideally recently, check the date of the review), location is very important. You want to be central without being in a dodgy or dangerous area. You need be able to look at the exact location on a detailed map of the city.
Also consider security (is there a reception / lobby, for example) and the services to be provided (if you're flying, you want linen and towels to be provided. You don't want to have to take it with you). Do they provide the cleaning for you? If so, how often and is there an extra charge for this?
If you intend to take them, check that children are welcome. They usually are, but some apartments set restrictions on age. You will always have to ask in advance for a cot or a highchair.
Finally, booking. The safest way is to book through an agent or tour operator. Either way, make sure you know who to contact if you have problems.
Where to book
www.Interhome.co.uk have the largest range of self - catering accommodation and the biggest choice of cities in Europe. Not all properties are available for lets of less than a week, but they do have lots available for a minimum of three nights.
www.carefree-italy.com arranges weekly lets of apartments in 13 Italian cities and have a late offers section.
www.citadines.com are a specialist in 'apart-hotels' - apartment blocks in modern buildings that are well equipped and offer a reception and sometimes a breakfast room or restaurant. They offer properties in France, Spain, Germany, Belgium and London.
If you're looking for an apartment in london, visit www.cheaper-london-hotels.co.uk. Pick where you want to be in london and look in the thumbnails in the left hand column for the apartments available in that area. Click on the thumbnail to find out more, then compare the cost of booking the apartment via different suppliers.
www.venice-rentals.com offer an extensive selection of apartments in venice. Rates are usually for one week but, depending on the season some may be available for a shorter period.
www.travelscene.co.uk are on of the UK's leaders in city breaks in hotels. In some cities they offer self catering apartments.
www.italian-connection.co.uk have a large choice of apartments either for a three day or one week minimum stay.
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