It only feels right that this apartment found in the historic Ribeira neighbourhood of Porto is just as characterful on the inside as the surrounding area. Tropical house plants and an earthy colour scheme work well with the old stone walls, while the floating staircase and glass walls on the mezzanine level help natural light flow around the space. The kitchen and bathroom are full of sleek white surfaces, although the shower has been finished in a loud tesselating pattern to stop the space from feeling too bland. Breakfast can be provided by the host every day if so desired, which includes fresh bread and pastries delivered in the morning. The other piece of good news is that many of Porto's main attractions sit within easy walking distance from the front door. The neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa is three minutes' walk away and the city's cathedral takes seven.

Home truths:
*A cot and high chair can be provided if required
*The home has no private car parking space, but there are public car parks starting from as close as three minutes' walk away
*There's a lift in the building, although there's a staircase within the apartment to reach the mezzanine living room
*Airport transfers, daily housekeeping and babysitting services are available for an extra fee
*There's no desk but there's laptop-friendly workspace on the kitchen table
*Beach towels are provided in the summer months