From the ornate chandeliers to the carved-oak dining table, this apartment in Tuscany's Lucca is a historic hidey-hole. Set in a 17th-century palazzo, the space pays homage to its past with prints of famous Tuscan sculptures hanging on white walls, and antique walnut sofas, while an antler-topped bust and quirky black cabinet add splashes of modernity. Tuscany's famous summer heat is kept at bay with high ceilings, air-conditioning and long windows, the latter letting the sunshine flood onto parquet floors and blue, crushed-velvet sofas. When you're not curled up with a book or writing a note on the black onyx table, explore the Basilica of San Frediano on your doorstep, or jump on one of the home's two bikes to cycle around the city's medieval walls.

Additional fees

• If you'll be arriving from 8pm until 12am, you'll be charged a late arrival fee of €50. If you’ll be arriving after midnight, you’ll be charged a late arrival fee of €100.

• The city tax is to be paid locally with the host. It is 4.50€ per person and per night.

• The use of heating, outside of winter months, might incur an additional fee.

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.