Set in the upscale, leafy Naples neighbourhood of Vomero, this penthouse apartment looks out over the red rooftops. The surrounded streets are set on a hill, so the view from café terraces and pizzeria balconies of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. There are plenty of ancient sites on your doorstep, but a ten-minute hop on the metro from nearby Medaglie d'Oro will see you at Naples’ shambling, atmospheric old centre.

The apartment is a charming mix of old and new, with gallery-white walls keeping things light and breezy, and plenty of pops of colour from modern artworks. Darkwood furnitures feels like it’s been handed down for generations, especially the dining table. While the kitchen’s big, range-style cooker can keep even the fussiest of chefs happy – you’re in one of the foodie capital of Italy after all.

But it’s the outside terrace that really grabbed us at this place. Looking out over the leafy neighbourhood to green hills beyond, the outside space here is a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Naples. Fire up the gas grill for an alfresco feast on delightful wrought-iron furniture. Or, bag a lounger and soak up the sun. There are plenty of squashy sofas shaded by greenery out here too.

Home truths:
*The double bed in the second bedroom has one side against a wall
*Two additional guests can be accommodated on the sofa bed in the living room
*The apartment is on the top floor but there is a lift in the building