Description Cradle of the Renaissance: Florence

Florence is a city that revels in its illustrious history and this apartment is a superb option if you want to immerse yourself in this heritage. The building in which the home is housed — Palazzo Antellesi — dates back to the second half of the sixteenth century and you certainly get a sense of that as you walk through the door thanks to the timber vaulted ceilings, marbled floors and original frescoes on the wall. However, the design cleverly incorporates some modern aspects too, including arresting pieces of contemporary artwork, a glass-walled bedroom and an espresso machine — this is Italy, after all. Wander over to the large living window and you'll be treated to a view of the Piazza Santa Croce below with the beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce on the east side and a monument to the writer Dante in the other direction. Even better, some of the must-see attractions — Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio to name but a few — are only ten minutes away on foot.

Home truths:
*The building also has a shared fitness room, equipped with an exercise bike and treadmill
*For those staying longer than twenty-eight days, there will be an extra daily rate for utility usage
*This apartment is on the third floor and there's an elevator to reach it, although there are steps leading up to the door