Five affordable family breaks that won't break the bank - including European getaway #AFF

The October midterm is fast approaching, and if you've been promising the kids a few days away, there is still time to organise a last-minute family break.

A family getaway doesn't necessarily have to mean spending a small fortune either, with plenty of options available closer to home, and even a European city break worth considering.

Whether you're looking for a hotel with a swimming pool to keep the kids entertained, a few days exploring one of Ireland's most popular cities or even a quick trip overseas, Booking.com has plenty of family-friendly options to choose from.

We've picked out five ideas for an October midterm escape.

The Connacht Hotel, Galway

Galway is always a winner for a family break, with plenty to see and do regardless of what the Irish weather decides to throw at you.

The Connacht Hotel on the Old Dublin Road is particularly well suited to families, with spacious family accommodation as well as leisure facilities including an indoor swimming pool.

Its location also leaves you within easy reach of Galway city centre, while families can head for Salthill, Galway Atlantaquaria or simply spend an afternoon wandering around the city.

For parents hoping to keep younger guests occupied, the hotel's family facilities make this a particularly handy option for the school holidays.

With prices for two adults and two children at €538 for two nights at the time of writing, you can check for availability on Booking.com.

Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny

Kilkenny offers plenty for a couple of days away without requiring a packed itinerary.

The Newpark Hotel is a popular choice for families and features an indoor swimming pool, while its location puts guests just a short distance from Kilkenny city centre.

There's plenty to fill a midterm break nearby, from exploring Kilkenny Castle and its grounds to discovering the city's medieval streets.

It's also a good option for families who want enough to do at the hotel that they don't have to spend every minute of the break rushing from one attraction to another.

With prices for two adults and two children for two nights at €660 at the time of writing, you can check for availability on Booking.com here.

Treacys Hotel, Waterford

For another city break that won't require a flight, Waterford is well worth considering.

Treacys Hotel & Leisure Centre is located on the quays in Waterford city and offers family-friendly facilities including a swimming pool.

Its central location also gives families plenty of options when it comes to filling their days.

Waterford's Viking Triangle is nearby, while the Waterford Greenway and the seaside towns of Tramore and Dunmore East offer plenty of scope for a day out if the weather plays ball.

With prices for two adults and two children at €534 for two nights at the time of writing, you can check for availability on Booking.com.

Athlone Springs Hotel, Athlone

If you'd prefer somewhere right in the middle of the country, Athlone makes a great base for a short family escape.

Athlone Springs Hotel has a 20-metre swimming pool and leisure centre, and the hotel has been promoting special family activity breaks for the October midterm.

There is plenty to explore around Athlone too, from Athlone Castle and the River Shannon to nearby family attractions, while the town's central location can make it a particularly convenient option for families travelling from different parts of Ireland.

With prices for two adults and two children at €471 for two nights at the time of writing, you can check for availability on Booking.com.

Or swap Ireland for Porto, Portugal

And if you fancy making the October midterm feel like a proper holiday, why not check the price of going a little further afield?

Porto could be a great wildcard for families looking for a short European break without committing to a full week away.

Portugal's second city is compact enough to explore over a few days, with its colourful riverside, boat trips on the Douro, historic trams and plenty of family-friendly accommodation to choose from.

Booking.com lists a wide range of family hotels and apartments across Porto, meaning families can choose between a hotel stay or an apartment with a little more space.

Of course, you'll need to factor flights and airport transfers into the overall cost, but it's worth comparing the total with the price of an Irish hotel break, you might be surprised by the difference.

With prices for two adults and two children at €487 for two nights at the time of writing, you can check for availability on Booking.com.