Fresco & Arno

Hand-decorated frescoed ceilings span multiple rooms of this apartment, set within a historic palazzo in Florence's centro storico – a rare detail that makes the history of the city feel present, not just nearby. A white spiral staircase winds up to a mezzanine bedroom tucked beneath its own painted ceiling, while the living room below is bright and relaxed. Piazza della Signoria is an eight-minute stroll, the Duomo a fourteen-minute walk, and Palazzo Pitti around eighteen minutes on foot – meaning most of what Florence is famous for is easily reached before lunch.

Home truths:
* The apartment is on the second floor of a historic building with no lift access for guests, so you'll be using the stairs each time you come and go. Keep that in mind if anyone in your group has mobility considerations.
* The mezzanine bedroom shares its air conditioning with the living room and kitchen rather than having a dedicated unit of its own. On the hottest summer days, it may not cool as effectively as the main bedroom – worth factoring in if you're visiting in July or August.
* Given the home's central spot, expect to hear some street noise throughout your stay.
* This host collects tourist tax separately from your booking payment. 7 days before check-in, your host will send you a link to pay the tax.