Secret Oasis

Secret Oasis: Lombardy

Close enough to the centre to be convenient, yet far enough removed so as not to be too chaotic, this lovely and well-illuminated apartment sits on Corso di Porta Vigentina – named for one of the (now demolished) city gates in the Spanish walls of the city.

Step inside, kick off your shoes and enjoy the cool terracotta tiles underfoot as you pad through the apartment. The charming living room has been kitted out with a comfortable sofa bed, some elegant mid-century-inspired pieces and two sets of French doors – one of which leads out onto a balcony that looks out over the street.

A compact galley kitchen sits adjacent, equipped with everything you might need to whip up delicious meals at home. Aspiring chefs will be pleased to learn of the weekly street market that takes place every Friday, in the vicinity of Porta Romana, about a fifteen-minute walk away.

Even if you're not in the market for fresh produce, few places better encapsulate the Milanese shopping experience than the Porta Romana district – frequented by the city's famous and fashionable. Here, elegant kerbside cafes and fine dining restaurants make for a fantastic spot to stop and people-watch as you sip refreshments or tuck into a plate of pasta.

On hot days, why not enjoy a cooling dip in the nearby Bagni Misteriosi, a kilometre away? Alternatively, QC Termemilano offers a more luxurious experience even closer to home. Finally, wander a kilometre or so in the opposite direction to explore Milan's historic centre, where you can marvel at the architectural beauty of the Palazzo Reale and the iconic Duomo.

Home truths:
*At capacity, two guests will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the living room
*This home is located on the second floor without lift access, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*Given the central location, some street noise is to be expected
*All guests must be at least 18 years of age – there's no capacity to accommodate children
*A car isn't necessary when staying in Milan – note that there's no parking at this home
*The kitchen is lacking some basic crockery and cooking utensils, so it might not be the best choice if you're planning family meals in