City Breaks

Gracious hosts, a mix of 17th-century style and contemporary design with comfort in spades, just minutes’ from the Rialto Bridge

In the trendy, bustling Alameda district, a traditional shuttered and high-ceilinged house with a super patio and terrace near everything.

It's worth the schlep up the hill to get to this calm oasis of a B&B with homemade crêpes at breakfast and a huge glass veranda with views

Gorgeous hotel on a quiet residential street near the Jardin Public, with an elegant guest salon, inspiring rooms and delicious breakfasts

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is divine

Three wonderfully higgledy-piddledy apartments make up this artist's home for seven. Discover WW2 history and wander Caen's cobbled streets

Paris tourist central’s close but you needn’t leave the quarter: sassy design style, eat in, or out nearby – seasonal, international

A family-friendly flat with a bohemian Parisian air, nicely stocked with books, paintings, magazines and an elegant selection of CDs

A welcome retreat from the hubbub of the city. Breakfast under the pergola before venturing forth to discover its many treasures

Tucked just off the Grand Canal, genuine family heirlooms dress this ground-floor flat within a storied Renaissance palazzo in San Polo

Peace and ancient beauty in the heart of Chartres, tranquil studios with an exquisite rose garden to wander round

French elegance meets English comfort in Paris by St Germain. Organic croissants, crisp duvets, an open fire... a favourite of many guests

Retreat to a classically styled suite for 2 - private, elegant and peaceful - in a characterful, super-central area of Rome

Birds trill, the Moorish Castle towers above - all is tranquil. Beds are wrapped in delicious linen, breakfasts on the terrace are a joy

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo,lovingly restored: come for stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer’s insight into the city

The real Deal: cool interiors, a relaxed feel & good food in this creative corner of town, minutes from the sea. The perfect weekend escape

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

A glamourous escape in central Nice. Creative interiors, a fabulous tropical garden, sumptuous buffet breakfasts and a superb spa