Aperitivo over Como

A second-floor apartment in a historic Como building, this is the kind of base that makes a city feel effortless – Piazza Cavour and Como Cathedral are both a nine-minute walk, and the lakefront promenade is close enough for an early morning stroll. Back inside, light pours through the living room and into a bedroom with its own balcony access, while the terrace – furnished for both lingering dinners and morning coffee – looks out over wooded hills and the rooftops of the historic centre. Contemporary interiors keep things calm and considered, with a separate kitchen making longer stays just as easy as a quick city break.

Home truths:
* The apartment is on the second floor and there is no lift, so you'll be carrying luggage up the stairs on arrival and departure. Bear this in mind if you have heavy bags or anyone in your group has limited mobility.
* Six guests share one bathroom here, so it's worth building a little flexibility into your morning routine.
* If you're travelling with a little one, your host can provide a cot – worth requesting in advance to make sure it's ready on arrival.
* Given the home's central spot, expect to hear some street noise throughout your stay.
* There is no parking at the apartment. Como's historic centre is well served by foot and public transport, but if you're arriving by car you'll need to find a public car park nearby.