Thessaloniki Tops European Babymoon Index for Expectant Parents

An increasing number of expectant couples are choosing to embark on one final, child-free getaway before their new baby arrives, embracing the growing trend of the 'babymoon'. Recent data highlights a significant 46 per cent year-on-year surge in Google searches for these special pre-birth trips, underscoring their rising popularity among soon-to-be parents across the UK.

Analysing the Perfect Babymoon Destinations

To assist couples in planning their ideal low-stress retreat, MoneySuperMarket has developed its comprehensive Babymoon Index. This detailed research meticulously examines the top 100 European cities located within a convenient four-hour flight from the UK. The study evaluates a wide range of critical factors tailored specifically for expectant parents, including the quality of local healthcare services, average hotel ratings, affordability of transport options, cleanliness of public toilet facilities, and overall air and food quality standards.

Thessaloniki Emerges as the Premier Choice

One destination distinguished itself clearly above all others in the analysis: Thessaloniki in Greece. This vibrant city secured the top position, proving itself to be an exceptional location for relaxation and unwinding before the arrival of a new family member. The sunny Greek spot earned its high ranking through a combination of excellent air quality, highly-rated accommodation options, and a notably relaxed, unhurried pace of life.

As Greece's second city, Thessaloniki offers expectant parents a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring ancient historical remains and bustling local markets to immersing themselves in the area's profound cultural heritage. It presents the perfect setting for a slow, easy, and thoroughly enjoyable break. Locals even embrace the philosophy of 'chalara', a mindset dedicated to relaxation, moving in slow motion, and living completely stress-free—an ideal atmosphere for a babymoon.

Europe's Top Babymoon Cities Revealed

The research identified a diverse list of European cities that provide excellent environments for expectant couples. Following Thessaloniki, Brno in the Czech Republic secured second place. This city boasts an array of art galleries, impressive architecture, and countless restaurants serving traditional cuisine, making it perfect for a chilled and culturally enriching getaway.

In third position is the French city of Rennes, celebrated for its captivating medieval old town, vibrant food scene, and charming half-timbered houses. Notably, Rennes was recently honoured as the best European city for a one-night-only stay, adding to its appeal for shorter babymoon trips.

Often dubbed the 'Venice of Eastern Europe', Wroclaw in Poland—pronounced vrot-swaaf—claimed fourth place overall. This picturesque city is uniquely constructed across twelve islands interconnected by a network of scenic canals.

The ranking continues with Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city, in fifth place, followed by another Greek destination, Athens, in sixth. The Latvian capital, Riga, placed seventh; it was named the best value European destination for British travellers in the previous year's Post Office Travel Report. Another capital city, Budapest in Hungary, ranked eighth, with Bari in Italy and Madrid in Spain completing the top ten list.

Expert Insight on the Babymoon Trend

Alicia Hempsted, a travel insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, commented on the findings, stating: 'Babymoons are a popular way for expectant parents to slow down, switch off from everyday pressures, and spend quality time together before welcoming a baby. With so many physical and emotional changes happening at once, a babymoon can offer a much-needed chance to rest and reset.'

She emphasised the importance of destination selection, adding: 'Choosing the right destination is crucial. Feeling safe, comfortable and well cared for—with access to reliable healthcare, good-quality food and easy transport—can help make your babymoon a relaxing and enjoyable trip to remember.'

The full list of the top ten European cities for babymoons, according to MoneySuperMarket's research, is as follows: