The relaxed traveller

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

History, elegance and art combine in this special spot near the Louvre. Wonderful staff too. Relax - take breakfast in bed

Boutique hotel next to Funchal’s 15th-century cathedral, with a champagne and lobster bar, rooftop cocktail bar and an excellent restaurant

Glamour, warmth and style in a renovated wine warehouse in a cool quarter of Bordeaux - France’s most popular city after Paris

A welcoming country-house hotel that’s popular with locals and visitors alike - good food, stylish rooms and an airy restaurant wait

Quirky art hotel in the heart of trendy Brighton – there's a great bar, stylish rooms and wonderful breakfasts

High above Lisbon, this small but elegant former palace offers stunning views, stylishly rustic rooms and a dreamy, sun-trap patio

Minutes on foot from the Eiffel Tower and beside the Palais de Chaillot. Chic décor and organic breakfasts, run by eco-conscious Xavier

Discover warmth, tranquillity and wonderful breakfasts behind the handsome old door of this luxurious small hotel in Lucca

Find gilded mirrors, rich brocades, Fragonard toiletries and an unexpected roof terrace at this 6-bedroom guest house near St Mark’s Square

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

Sweet, stylish, fresh hotel with scented patio. Tucked away yet central, an unusually quiet base for exploring Rome

Personal touches abound at this much-loved villa in Rome. Quiz Laura for cultural tips; explore the many romantic, unknown parks nearby

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

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 art-filled interiors, a fabulous tropical garden, sumptuous buffet breakfasts, pool and spa

An Art Deco hotel in Lisbon's heart – all wood, chrome and marble, trendy lights, period photos in the bar, and the funicular to Bairro Alto