Tucked away in a charming palazzetto at the meeting point of the three sestieri – Castello, Cannaregio and San Marco – this apartment puts you right at the heart of Venice's action. You won’t exactly feel like a local here – the decor’s a little too generic for that – but you’ll be within easy reach of all the hotspots, as well as plenty of restaurants dishing up hearty Italian fare. Even better, your host can arrange a plethora of extras for an additional fee – from cooking classes to private chefs and guided tours – giving you the chance to fully immerse yourself in Venetian living.

Home truths:
*The understated decor here might not be to everyone's taste. Though cosy, it feels a little dated in parts.
*This home is situated on the second floor, which isn't accessible by lift. For this reason, it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
*The air conditioning and heating are subject to municipal regulations. Generally, the heating works from mid-October to mid-April, while air conditioning works from mid-April to mid-October.
*The dining table is slightly small for four people, so we'd recommend sticking to light bites when eating in. If you're after something heartier, there are plenty of restaurants nearby.
*The nearest supermarket is a short walk away if you need to top up on essentials.