The Happy Couple

Despite its diminutive footprint, this city-centre apartment is packed with interesting oddities from all over the world. While this could lead to clashing styles in less careful hands, the design is surprisingly cohesive throughout. In addition, the apartment is set in a historic eighteenth-century building right in the middle of bohemian Monti, one of the city's oldest residential yet most soulful areas. You're in the centre of a triangle that includes the Roman Forum, Colosseum and Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore. Each of these standout sights is within a ten-minute walk of your front door. You're spoiled for choice when it comes to excellent eateries nearby – tuck into a mouthwatering menu of hearty dishes at Ai Tre Scalini, indulge in timeless classics at Roman institution La Carbonara and enjoy expertly crafted dishes and local wine at Aromaticus. To top it all off, Tania is a great host – where else would you find a freshly baked cake waiting for you on arrival?

Home truths:
*Light sleepers take note - the building structure is original so you can hear footsteps from above
*Standard air conditioning is banned in the building to maintain its historic façade, so instead there are portable units
*This is a small space – there's a double sofa bed but we wouldn't suggest more than two guests at a time
*Child-friendly amenities such as a cot and highchair are available upon request
*When we checked, the magazines available were out of date
*24-hour check-in is available but you have to arrange in advance so that Tania can find a babysitter