Wise Words Indeed

What with the dense street layout and historic architecture in the centre of Florence, there aren't all too many houses with swimming pools to be found. That makes this ground-level apartment in the San Marco neighbourhood all the more special.

As well as this invitingly cool spot for a dip, guests are also treated to a plant-covered pergola with a table underneath that's sure to be the setting for idyllic alfresco feasts. This outdoor space is a peaceful enclave compared to the busy Florentine streets nearby and is a major perk of the address.

The home itself is typically Tuscan in style and you'll be able to spot several period features, including capitellos on the top of columns, wooden ceiling beams and a rather ornately designed door. There's a real air of palatial glamour to the tall living room, particularly with the marble fireplace and upright piano. In the other spaces, the architect has cleverly made use of the plentiful headroom by adding a mezzanine, which houses many of the beds.

When it comes to seeing the best of the city known as the Cradle of the Renaissance, there are noteworthy sights almost quite literally on your doorstep, including the San Marco Museum and the University of Florence's Botanical Garden.

Home truths:
*The apartment sits on the ground floor of the building and has stairs to reach the mezzanine, but there are bedrooms on the ground level
*There's no private parking available, but there are public car parks starting as close as six minutes' walk away
*The air conditioner is rather noisy