Its charming location in a quaint pedestrian alley ties in with the more bucolic interiors of this Marais one-bedroom home that reminds us of staying in a cottage in the French countryside. Daydreaming aside, you are in the lively Marais here, although the home feels very protected from traffic noise and the bustle of the nearby cafes and restaurants. Although not the brightest home in our collection, we think it's a great romantic spot for a couple.

Home truths:
*The host only accepts bookings up to 6 months in advance

* A third guest may use the sofa-bed in the living room (or two small children at a stretch) although the home is most comfortable for just a couple or single guest using the bedroom

* It's on a first floor with no lift access so some stairs are unavoidable

* This is a very old building - the soundproofing from the building's communal spaces is not as good as in newer buildings

* There is no air-conditioning in this home

* Due to the Marais' typically narrow streets, there are apartments directly opposite the windows