Description Painted Haven: Madrid

Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, this Lavapiés apartment is just the spot for those who want interior design and location. From here, you can walk to El Retiro, Mercado Antón Martín and Museo Nacional del Prado, as well as all the city’s top eateries. The apartment accommodates five, with three sleeping on sofa beds, so though perhaps a little compact, the flexibility is there if you need it. And while you’ll need to climb some stairs to reach this fourth-floor pad, the stylish interiors and little balcony are a treat after a long day of sightseeing.

Home truths:
*You'll need to climb some stairs to reach this fourth-floor apartment. It's located within an apartment building, so expect to bump into other guests during your stay. *At full occupancy, three guests will be sleeping on sofa beds in the living room. We think this home might be better suited to four guests. *The kitchen is fairly compact and may be best suited to light bites rather than big dinners. *You won't find a desk here, but the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace. *Given the central location, noise is to be expected. *While there's a washing machine here, you'll need to bring your own detergent.