Palazzo Guido

Welcome to the Florence of southern Italy. A lively town with a generous helping of baroque buildings, the Lecce style is incredibly decorative. Wander out to soak up local life; the Basilica di Santa Croce and Lecce Cathedral are must sees and you’re close to the Roman amphitheatre and the Giuseppe Garibaldi gardens.

You stay in Geltrude’s sumptuous palazzo, it bursts with fine art, antiques and rare books collected by her family over the centuries. Original mosaic floors and frescoes have been carefully restored yet the feel is homely and welcoming: play the piano, listen to music, sip an aperitivo before wandering out for dinner. There are good places to eat within a few steps, your host can make recommendations.

Hire a car if you plan to head out of the city but you will probably be content to walk, eat and relax at this beautiful palazzo. There’s an apartment for four and five suites, a gorgeous courtyard garden and spa.