Description Florentine Ease: Firenze

Sitting a ten-minute walk from Florence Cathedral and a short stroll from the Galleria dell'Accademia, this apartment puts the city's greatest treasures within easy reach. When you're done sightseeing, come back and take it all in from the balcony, where the city's terracotta roofline stretches out around you. Each bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom, so there's no jostling for space, and a steam shower adds a welcome layer of indulgence after a day on your feet. Florence's main train station is close by, making day trips to Siena or Cinque Terre effortlessly simple, too.

Home truths:
* The sofa bed in the living room sleeps two guests, though we think this home is best for six.
* The apartment is on the first floor, reached by around twenty steps – worth keeping in mind if you're travelling with heavy luggage or anyone with limited mobility.
* The two bedrooms facing the street can be on the noisy side at night – if you're a light sleeper, it's worth packing earplugs or claiming one of the rooms at the back.