This apartment in the Testaccio neighbourhood of Rome is a shining example of a somewhere we'd be more than happy to stay in the Italian capital. Quite literally in the case of the gleaming chequerboard tiling, parquet-style flooring and black marble in the master bathroom, which reflect the light beautifully and make this home feel gloriously light. The open-concept kitchen-dining area feels geared towards shared mealtimes, which is only appropriate given the locale's reputation as a gastronomic hotspot. Stroll over to Testaccio's glass-roofed market in under ten minutes and pick up some fresh ingredients for a home-prepared feast. Alternatively, if you're feeling lazy — or intrepid, however you want to frame it — there are a wide choice of restaurants nearby from which to take your pick.

Home truths:
*Even though there's a lift to the first floor, there's a short flight of stairs to reach it and it's too narrow for some wheelchairs
*There are some busy avenues and restaurants outside, so you will hear some noise
*There are free parking spaces on the street outside
*The host can provide a cot, high chair and babysitter recommendations if required