What Is an Aparthotel? Definition, Benefits & Key Features

Imagine walking into accommodation that feels like your own flat but comes with the convenience of hotel services.

An aparthotel is a hybrid accommodation that combines the space and amenities of an apartment with the services and flexibility of a hotel.

These properties offer fully equipped kitchens and separate living areas.

You can stay for days, weeks, or months without long-term contracts.

Aparthotels have become popular amongst business travellers, families, and anyone seeking more space and independence than traditional hotels provide.

If you need a temporary home in London for work or want kitchen facilities during a family holiday, aparthotels bridge the gap between hotels and rental properties.

Knowing what aparthotels offer and their key features can help you make better accommodation choices.

This guide explores essential amenities and pricing considerations to help you decide if this accommodation trend matches your needs.

Aparthotel Defined

An aparthotel blends the space and freedom of an apartment with the professional services of a hotel.

This unique accommodation serves both short-term visitors and extended-stay guests.

This model differs from traditional hotels in its layout and amenities.

It also offers advantages over standard serviced apartments through its hospitality services.

What Makes an Aparthotel Unique

Aparthotels combine residential comfort with professional hospitality services.

Each unit typically features a fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette, separate living area, bedroom, and bathroom.

Guests enjoy considerably more space than standard hotel rooms.

The kitchen facilities let guests prepare their own meals using appliances like refrigerators, hobs, and microwaves.

Many units also provide washing machines and dishwashers.

Hotel-style services set aparthotels apart from regular rental apartments.

Guests receive professional housekeeping, 24-hour reception services, and concierge assistance.

Many properties offer additional amenities such as:

• Daily housekeeping or weekly cleaning services
• Room service options
• Fitness centres and swimming pools
• Business facilities and meeting rooms
• Luggage storage and laundry services

The booking system works like a traditional hotel, letting guests check in and out without fixed rental contracts.

Guests can extend their stays as needed, depending on availability and minimum stay requirements.

This flexibility appeals to business travellers, relocating families, and tourists who want independence with professional hospitality standards.

Comparison with Traditional Hotels

Traditional hotels focus on short-term stays with standardised room layouts and full-service dining.

Aparthotels offer significantly more living space, usually 40-60% larger than hotel rooms, with separate areas for sleeping, living, and cooking.

Cost differences become clear during extended stays.

Hotel guests rely on restaurants or room service for all meals, while aparthotel guests can prepare their own food and reduce expenses.

Service levels vary between the two types.

Hotels provide comprehensive dining options, daily housekeeping, and extensive concierge services.

Aparthotels often provide housekeeping weekly rather than daily and may have limited or no on-site dining facilities.

Target markets also differ.

Hotels mainly serve short-term leisure and business travellers who want full-service experiences.

Aparthotels attract extended-stay guests, families needing more space, and travellers who prefer self-sufficiency with access to professional services.

The flexibility of aparthotels helps guests maintain routines more easily.

This is especially important for business travellers on long assignments or families with children.

Comparison with Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments and aparthotels share many similarities, which can cause confusion.

Both offer apartment-style living with hotel-like services, but important differences set them apart.

Booking systems mark a key distinction.

Aparthotels use hotel-style reservations, allowing nightly stays and flexible check-in and check-out times.

Serviced apartments usually require longer minimum stays, such as weekly or monthly commitments.

Service frequency also differs.

Aparthotels generally provide more frequent housekeeping and maintain hotel-standard reception facilities.

Serviced apartments may offer weekly cleaning and limited reception hours.

Target demographics show subtle differences.

Aparthotels attract leisure and business travellers seeking flexibility in stay duration.

Serviced apartments focus more on corporate clients and extended-stay business travellers.

Pricing structures reflect these approaches.

Aparthotels often charge nightly rates similar to hotels, with discounts for longer stays.

Serviced apartments usually offer better rates for extended periods but may be less economical for short stays.

Industry professionals sometimes use the terms interchangeably.

The distinction continues to blur as both types evolve to meet changing traveller preferences.

Essential Features of Aparthotels

Aparthotels blend the comfort of residential living with hotel conveniences through several key features.

These accommodations provide private living spaces, cooking facilities, self-catering options, and shared amenities.

Private Living Space

Aparthotels offer separate living areas that create a home-like environment.

These spaces usually include a lounge area with comfortable seating, a dining space, and often a work desk.

The living area remains distinct from the bedroom for added comfort.

Most aparthotels feature one to three-bedroom configurations.

Studio units combine living and sleeping areas, while larger units provide separate bedrooms with privacy.

The living spaces include essential furniture such as:

• Sofas or armchairs
• Coffee tables
• Television and entertainment systems
• Dining tables and chairs
• Storage solutions like wardrobes and drawers

This layout allows families and business travellers to maintain their routines.

Guests can work, dine, and socialise without being confined to a single hotel room.

The extra space is especially valuable for extended stays.

Fully Equipped Kitchen or Kitchenette

Every aparthotel unit includes either a full kitchen or compact kitchenette.

Full kitchens have standard appliances like refrigerators, ovens, hobs, and dishwashers, similar to residential flats.

Kitchenettes provide essential cooking facilities in a smaller space.

They typically include:

• Mini-refrigerator or under-counter fridge
• Microwave oven
• Electric hob or induction cooktop
• Basic sink with draining area

Both kitchen types come with cookware, crockery, and cutlery.

Guests receive pots, pans, plates, glasses, and utensils for meal preparation.

Most aparthotels also provide tea and coffee making facilities.

The kitchen facilities let guests prepare meals according to their preferences and dietary needs.

This is especially helpful for families with young children or business travellers with specific eating schedules.

Self-Catering Facilities

Self-catering is a core benefit that sets aparthotels apart from traditional hotels.

Guests can shop for groceries and prepare their own meals, which reduces dining costs.

This independence appeals to families, extended-stay guests, and travellers with dietary restrictions.

Essential self-catering amenities include refrigeration for food storage, cooking facilities, and dining areas.

Many aparthotels provide dishwashers and washing machines for added convenience.

The self-catering option offers several advantages:

• Cost savings on restaurant meals
• Dietary control for allergies or preferences
• Familiar routines for children
• Flexibility in meal timing

Aparthotels often stock basic provisions like tea, coffee, milk, and condiments.

Some locations provide welcome grocery packages or offer grocery delivery services.

Communal Space and Amenities

Aparthotels maintain shared facilities that provide hotel-style services and social spaces.

Common areas usually include reception desks with staff available for assistance, housekeeping, and maintenance support.

Standard communal amenities often feature:

Facility Type	Common Examples
Fitness & Wellness	Gymnasiums, swimming pools, saunas
Business Services	Meeting rooms, business centres, Wi-Fi
Social Areas	Lounges, terraces, garden spaces
Practical Services	Laundry rooms, parking, concierge

Many aparthotels include 24-hour reception services or extended hours coverage.

This ensures guests receive assistance when needed while enjoying independent apartment living.

Some properties offer extra services such as cleaning, grocery shopping, or restaurant recommendations.

The communal spaces let guests socialise and work outside their private units while still having access to hotel services.

Hotel Services and Facilities

Aparthotels provide guests with essential hotel amenities while maintaining the independence of apartment living.

These properties typically offer round-the-clock support, fitness facilities, dining venues, and housekeeping services.

Housekeeping and Laundry Service

Most aparthotels include regular housekeeping service.

Guests receive weekly or bi-weekly cleaning depending on their length of stay.

Daily housekeeping is often available upon request for an extra fee.

The cleaning service covers all areas of the apartment, including the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living space.

Staff provide fresh linens and towels regularly.

Laundry services come in several forms:

• On-site launderettes with self-service machines
• Full laundry service where staff collect and return clean clothes
• In-apartment washing machines and dryers
• Express cleaning for business travellers

Many aparthotels offer laundry facilities 24 hours a day.

This flexibility helps guests staying for extended periods who need regular washing facilities.

24-Hour Reception and Security

Aparthotels maintain staffed reception desks throughout the day and night.

Front desk staff help with check-in, local information, and general enquiries.

They can also arrange services like taxi bookings or restaurant reservations.

Security measures include controlled access systems.

Guests receive key cards or codes to enter the building and their apartments.

CCTV cameras monitor common areas and entrances.

Security features typically include:

• Electronic door locks
• Secure entry systems
• Emergency contact procedures
• Safety deposit boxes
• Fire safety equipment

Night security personnel patrol larger properties.

Reception staff maintain contact with local emergency services when needed.

Many aparthotels also provide secure parking for guests with vehicles.

On-Site Gyms and Fitness Areas

Fitness facilities vary between aparthotel properties.

Smaller establishments might offer basic gym equipment in a dedicated room.

Larger aparthotels feature comprehensive fitness centres with modern equipment.

Common gym amenities include:

• Cardiovascular machines (treadmills, exercise bikes)
• Weight training equipment
• Free weights and resistance bands
• Yoga or stretching areas

Some premium aparthotels provide swimming pools, saunas, or steam rooms.

Fitness areas usually operate 24 hours a day with key card access.

Staff maintain equipment to ensure it stays in good condition.

Group fitness classes are available at larger properties.

Guests can often arrange personal training services through reception staff.

These facilities help guests maintain exercise routines during extended stays.

Dining Options and Restaurants

Aparthotels often have on-site restaurants or cafés for guest convenience. These venues serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with varied menu options.

Room service is usually available during specific hours. Restaurant facilities range from casual cafés to formal dining rooms.

Many focus on local cuisine but also offer international dishes. Bar areas give guests spaces to socialise and enjoy evening drinks.

Dining services commonly include:

• Continental or full English breakfast
• All-day dining menus
• Take-away options
• Special dietary accommodations
• Business lunch packages

Some aparthotels partner with nearby restaurants to provide delivery services. Vending machines offer snacks and beverages in common areas.

The combination of in-apartment kitchens and restaurant facilities gives guests flexibility for their dining preferences.

Who Should Choose an Aparthotel?

Aparthotels suit travellers who need more than a standard hotel room. They work well for people who value space and flexibility.

Guests can maintain routines while travelling. Aparthotels are ideal for those wanting independence and comfort.

Ideal Travellers and Use Cases

Business professionals value aparthotels for workspace and reliable internet. Separate living areas provide quiet zones for video calls and presentations.

Many business travellers like having a kitchen to prepare meals on their own schedule. Leisure travellers also benefit from flexibility.

They can explore local markets and cook regional ingredients in their kitchen. Couples on romantic getaways enjoy extra living space for relaxing together.

Digital nomads and remote workers often choose aparthotels for longer stays. Hotel services and apartment-style living make it easy to establish work routines.

They get housekeeping while keeping the independence of their own kitchen and living area. People visiting friends or family sometimes prefer aparthotels for privacy and comfort.

Business and Extended-Stay Guests

Corporate travellers on longer assignments find aparthotels more cost-effective than traditional hotels. They can prepare meals in their kitchen and save on dining expenses.

Washing facilities let them pack lighter for extended trips. Relocating employees often use aparthotels as temporary housing while searching for permanent accommodation.

Flexible booking terms allow guests to extend their stay as needed. A proper living space helps them settle in comfortably.

Training course attendees and conference delegates benefit from quiet spaces to review materials and prepare presentations. Separate bedroom and living areas let them work late without disturbing their sleep.

Many aparthotels offer meeting rooms for small business gatherings. Consultants and contractors on long projects appreciate the home-like environment.

They can maintain routines, cook familiar meals, and have space for exercise or relaxation after work.

Families and Group Travel

Families with children need more space than a single hotel room provides. Parents can put children to bed in a separate bedroom and relax in the living area.

The kitchen lets them prepare meals for picky eaters and store snacks and drinks. Multi-generational family groups benefit from having separate sleeping and living areas for different schedules and preferences.

Grandparents can rest while children play in the living space. Washing facilities help manage extra laundry during family trips.

Friend groups travelling together find aparthotels more sociable than separate hotel rooms. They can gather in the living area for meals and conversation.

The kitchen makes it easy to prepare group meals and meet different dietary needs. Families on extended holidays or sabbaticals enjoy stability and flexibility during longer trips.

Children can keep routines while parents explore at their own pace.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Aparthotels

Aparthotels offer unique benefits through their mix of apartment living and hotel services. However, travellers should consider some limitations.

Benefits Compared to Hotels

Space and Comfort

Aparthotels provide more living space than standard hotel rooms. Guests get separate bedrooms, living areas, and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes.

This extra space is valuable for families and business travellers on extended stays. Anyone seeking a more comfortable experience can benefit.

Self-Catering Flexibility

Kitchen facilities allow guests to prepare their own meals. This saves money and offers dietary control.

Travellers can shop locally and cook familiar foods, making longer stays more comfortable and affordable.

Hotel Services and Amenities

Aparthotels maintain essential hotel services. Guests receive housekeeping, 24-hour reception, concierge assistance, and security.

Many properties also offer fitness centres, swimming pools, and business facilities. Extended Stay Value

For longer stays, aparthotels usually offer better value than hotels. More space, kitchen facilities, and lower nightly rates for extended bookings make them financially attractive.

Potential Limitations

Higher Initial Costs

Aparthotels often charge higher rates than standard hotels, especially for short stays. The extra space and amenities can make brief visits more expensive.

Limited Daily Services

Some aparthotels offer reduced housekeeping frequency. Guests may need to request extra services, which can inconvenience those used to daily hotel service.

Fewer On-Site Dining Options

Many aparthotels have limited or no on-site restaurants. Guests often use their kitchen facilities instead.

This can be inconvenient for business travellers or those who prefer hotel dining. Location Constraints

Aparthotels may have fewer locations in some cities compared to hotels. Larger unit sizes require more space, which can limit availability in city centres.

Trends and Growth in Aparthotels

The aparthotel sector has expanded across major cities, driven by changing traveller preferences and new technology. New developments focus on hybrid spaces that blend living, working, and social environments.

Popularity in Urban Centres

Aparthotels have become popular in urban centres, especially in the UK. Major cities attract business travellers and digital nomads who need flexible accommodation.

The sector grows mainly through conversions of existing buildings. Many hotels with large rooms are being redeveloped into aparthotels due to high construction costs.

Key factors driving urban popularity include:

• Prime locations with excellent transport links
• Growing demand from remote workers
• Business travellers seeking longer stays
• Cost-effective alternatives to traditional hotels

Urban aparthotels now feature communal spaces for co-working and co-living. These shared areas offer networking opportunities while maintaining privacy.

The serviced apartment sector has become strong in the UK hospitality market over the past decade. This growth shows a shift toward flexible, home-like accommodations in city centres.

Future Developments in the Sector

Technology drives future aparthotel development. Properties now use smart room features, contactless check-ins, and AI-powered personalisation to improve guest experiences.

Sustainability is now a core requirement. New aparthotels use energy-efficient designs, renewable energy, and waste reduction programmes to meet environmental expectations.

Emerging trends shaping the sector:

• Hybrid living-working environments
• Local partnership programmes
• Multiple brand strategies for different market segments
• Extended stay packages for digital nomads

Aparthotels now offer more than just accommodation. Properties partner with local businesses to provide cultural experiences and support regional economies.

The sector shows promise for communal spaces that foster community connections. Future developments will likely include enhanced shared facilities like co-working areas, fitness centres, and social lounges for long-term guests.

Conclusion

Aparthotels offer a modern accommodation solution that bridges the gap between hotels and apartments. They combine the convenience of hotel services with the space and flexibility of apartment living.

This makes them ideal for both short-term and extended stays. Key benefits include fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and access to hotel amenities like housekeeping and concierge services.

This hybrid accommodation model appeals to business travellers, families, and anyone seeking more independence. The flexibility to cook meals and enjoy extra space makes aparthotels attractive for longer visits.

Whether you’re looking for quality serviced apartments for your next stay or need professional property management services for your aparthotel, JF Property Partners can help. We offer comprehensive serviced accommodation solutions across the UK.

Contact our team at info@jfpropertypartners.com or call +44 7457 427143 to discuss your accommodation needs. Visit our contact page to learn more about our serviced apartment offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

People often ask about the differences between aparthotels and traditional hotels, how these accommodations work in the UK, and why they suit different travellers. UK aparthotels usually offer fully furnished units with kitchenettes and hotel services, making them popular for city breaks and extended business stays.

What is the difference between a hotel and an aparthotel?

Hotels provide bedrooms and bathrooms with limited cooking facilities. Aparthotels offer self-contained apartments with full kitchenettes.

Traditional hotels focus on room service and on-site restaurants. Aparthotels combine apartment-style living with hotel services like reception and housekeeping.

Guests get separate sleeping areas, living spaces, and cooking facilities in one unit. Aparthotels provide more space and independence, allowing guests to cook meals and work comfortably.

What is an Aparthotel in the UK?

UK aparthotels blend apartment comfort with hotel services in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. These properties offer studios and suites with kitchenettes, regular housekeeping, and 24-hour reception.

Most UK aparthotels are in city centres near transport and business districts. They cater to business travellers, families, and people needing temporary accommodation for relocation or extended stays.

UK aparthotels typically include free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and work desks. Many also feature fitness centres, resident lounges, and communal spaces.

How does an aparthotel work?

Guests book aparthotels per night through hotel booking platforms or directly with the property. Upon arrival, guests check in at reception and receive keys to a furnished unit with a kitchenette.

The apartment includes cookware, a fridge, hob, and microwave for self-catering. Hotel-style services remain available, including housekeeping, 24-hour reception, and maintenance support.

Guests can cook their own meals or dine at nearby restaurants.

How Long Can You Stay in a UK Aparthotel?

UK aparthotels welcome guests for stays ranging from one night to several months. Many offer discounts for weekly and monthly bookings.

Short-term guests can book single nights. Long-term residents often secure corporate rates for stays of 28 days or more.

For longer stays, staff provide weekly housekeeping instead of the daily service found in traditional hotels. Extended stay guests also receive extra storage and upgraded kitchen equipment.

Many UK aparthotels offer flexible booking policies with free cancellation. Corporate clients frequently arrange extended stays for employee relocation or project-based work.

Are Aparthotels Good for Families in the UK?

UK aparthotels suit families because they offer larger living spaces and kitchen facilities. Many properties feature family suites with separate sleeping areas and extra space for cots and luggage.

Kitchenettes help parents prepare bottles, snacks, and familiar meals for children. On-site laundry facilities let families handle washing during longer trips.

Family-friendly aparthotels often include bigger refrigerators and dining areas than standard hotel rooms. Some properties provide connecting units or multi-bedroom suites for larger families.

What Amenities Do UK Aparthotels Offer?

UK aparthotels usually offer kitchenettes with hobs, microwaves, and refrigerators. Guests also get basic cookware for self-catering.

Most properties include free Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions. Work desks are also standard in many aparthotels.

Housekeeping staff clean rooms regularly while respecting guests’ privacy. For longer stays, many aparthotels change linen weekly and offer extra cleaning on request.

Common facilities include 24-hour reception and secure building access. Laundry rooms with washing machines and dryers are often available.

Some aparthotels have fitness centres and resident lounges. Others provide business centres and grab-and-go breakfast stations for convenience.

Our Aparthotel Locations

• Aparthotel in Leeds
• Aparthotel in London
• Aparthotel in York
• Aparthotel in Manchester
• Aparthotel in Harrogate
• Aparthotel in Brighton