Nadine Mellor, Kids Collection Editor at the stylish family travel experts i-escape.com/kids shares her favourite baby-friendly city boltholes across the world; perfect for parents in search of an urban adventure with little ones in tow…
Prague, Czech Republic
Vinohrady Boutique Apartment
Head to this elegant 2-bedroom apartment just a short tram ride from Prague’s city centre for a relaxed stay. There’s a very helpful ‘black book’ which details all local info on shopping and family requirements, including a babysitting agency and a nearby creche, the kitchen-diner is superbly equipped and you’re only 15 minutes from the airport.
From £123 per apartment per night based on up to four sharing on a self-catering basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
London, UK
No.5 Maddox Street
These zen-chic apartments are found in supremely central Mayfair, steps from shopping and sights, yet you’re tucked away on a peaceful side street. Self-catering is the go for families keeping irregular hours with a baby and there are baby baths and high chairs, too.
From £193 per room per night based on two sharing on a room only basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
StayCatalina
If living like a local is preferred, try these new self-catering apartments in a townhouse in trendy Santa Catalina, just a 10-minute walk from the historic centre. The three larger ones occupy a floor each so you needn’t worry about the neighbours, and all are very well-equipped. Outside, you’ll find restaurants and bars galore, plus a great food market on your doorstep.
From £73 per apartment per night based on two sharing a patio studio on a self-catering basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Stockholm, Sweden
Hotel J
Stockholm is an easy place to be with babies: boats to look at, pushchair-friendly ferries and, best of all, it’s not too crowded. Base yourselves in this waterfront boutique hotel, where most of the New England styled rooms have sea views and balconies and all can take baby cots. There’s a restaurant, cosy lounge and sea-facing terrace too.
From £139 per room per night based on two sharing a J Deluxe Room on a B&B basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Paris, France
Val de Grace Apartment
Book this immaculate one-bedroom bolthole for easy access to the bohemian Latin Quarter, the boulevards and bistros of Saint Germain and the metro which will transport you to all sights. There’s a well-equipped kitchen (the grocery shop is next door), windows have thickened glass for a quiet night’s sleep and changing mats, bedding, bathtub and booster chairs are all supplied.
From £170 per apartment per night based on up to 5 sharing on a self-catering basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
NYC, USA
The Mercer
Families with babies are made very welcome at this glamorous Soho boutique hotel which has lots of kit to borrow and many rooms have bathtubs; making bath time easy. Book a babysitter, or plug in the monitor so you can take advantage of the automatic table reservation in the Mercer Kitchen restaurant, perfect for some grown-up time.
From £454 per room per night based on two sharing a Courtyard Room on a room-only basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Madrid, Spain
Madrid Boutique Apartments
This clutch of spacious contemporary apartments work beautifully for families, offering great value for such sleek well-equipped interiors. All can take an extra cot, you’ve a choice of 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms and a range of central locations (note the Santa Ana apartments are by a playground). Babysitting can even be arranged via the concierge.
From £73 per apartment per night based on two sharing a 1 Bedroom Apartment on a self-catering basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Florence, Italy
Residence Hilda
This historic townhouse, now converted to 12 contemporary classic apartments, is just three blocks from the Duomo and an easy stroll away from everything: perfect for new parents seeking a city break. You get privacy, pristine bathrooms, kitchenettes stocked with all you need to create simple meals and a host of baby equipment can be provided on request.
From £92 per room per night based on two sharing a Classic Suite on a room-only basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Sydney, Australia
The Langham Sydney
Sydney needs no introduction to its stellar charms, the only information you need is where to stay! Sited in the historic Rocks district, plush hotel The Langham offers a host benefits to parents seeking an urban getaway; it’s uber-central, has concierge services on tap, a restaurant and cocktail lounge, a plethora of baby equipment (including toys and games for older kids) to borrow, cots free of charge (which can be erected in any room) and babysitting. There’s even a cool pool with a fibre-optic sky.
From £233 per room per night based on two sharing a Grand Langham Double room on a room-only basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com
Lisbon, Portugal
Santiago de Alfama
This new boutique hotel in a 15th-Century palace in historic Alfama delivers beautiful understated style across 19 spacious bedrooms. New parents will appreciate the convenience of a restaurant, bar and cafe on the premises and there’s heaps of baby paraphernalia to borrow – from night lights to a buggy.
From £127 per room per night based on two sharing a Classic Corner Bedroom on a room-only basis. Baby cot available. More info: i-escape.com