A perfect base for city adventures, this home in the heart of Madrid is a refreshing blend of old and new. Set in a typical period building, it's anything but old-fashioned inside, with white walls and concrete tile floors providing the backdrop to a riot of colourful art and dramatic, contemporary furnishings. Think tall ceilings and French doors, but also statement lighting and a sleek, white kitchen.

Designed for a couple or a solo traveller, it's not all style over substance – it's a perfectly inviting, comfortable home from home. We particularly love the artsy living room, with its little balcony, and the bathroom, where you can freshen up in the rainfall shower under the banana leaf ceiling.

A pretty, quiet spot, but with all the major attractions – as well as all sorts of cafes, restaurants and bars – practically on your doorstep, it's an excellent choice.

Home truths:
*Your apartment is on the second floor of a home with no lift
*There's laptop-friendly workspace at the table
*The host asks you to get in touch a week prior to your stay with details of your planned arrival time – if you're arriving outside of office times you'll need to go and collect the key
*The balcony is very small but enough to grab some fresh air