On The Block

What this studio flat lacks in size, it more than makes up for in personality. We were wowed by the sheer joyfulness of the space, with its bright pastels, quirky decorations and fun pink geometric floors. It's whimsical, bright and despite the tiny thumbprint, it feels surprisingly breezy. Pull up a stool and enjoy an espresso at the breakfast bar – it can double as a workspace if you're in town on business – or snuggle up in the cosy bed with a good book after a busy day sightseeing. You won't be hosting dinner parties, but that's not what this flat is for – instead, it's an excellent base from which to explore the city. You're smack-dab in Chinatown, where Chinese lanterns hang above the streets and patrons spill out of dim-sum restaurants and traditional tea shops. But don't worry, there's plenty of Italian fare to be found, especially if you make your way towards artsy Brera and the Centro Storico. Twenty minutes on foot are the leafy gardens of Parco Sempione and Castello Sforzesco – home to artwork by da Vinci and Michelangelo – and though it's a little further, you can walk to the Duomo in thirty-five minutes or hop on the tram, instead.

Home truths:
*This studio flat is really quite small – there’s no living area, so all relaxing will have to take place on the bed or bar stools
*There's no lift, so you'll have to take the stairs to the second floor
*Cooking a meal in the kitchen is tricky – there's no oven or microwave, and only a portable induction hob with a single ring
*Please that there's no TV in this flat