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This friendly b&b offers accommodation in a 19th-century building, as well as in several studio flats in nearby Piazza Vittorio. The cosy interiors have slanted ceilings and rustic wooden beams, and all feature kitchenettes. In-room breakfast consists of homemade cakes, jams and pastries. See the full post >

Hotel Monaco — a cobblestone’s throw from Philadelphia’s historic attractions — is a layer cake of whimsical furnishings and audacious colours baked in the mould of an early-20th-century bank building. Comfortable, funky rooms, genuine hospitality and fun freebies make it a favourite for locals and travellers. See the full post >

Recent major renovations to the lobby and bar have further enhanced Mandarin Oriental, Munich’s appeal. It has long been renowned among both travellers and locals because of its rooftop terrace with swimming pool, and now more so with the opening of a superb Matsuhisa restaurant. See the full post >

This member of AccorHotels’ luxury Sofitel chain is called “Le Louise” because it is in the area around Avenue Louise, the byword for high-end shopping in Brussels. Glamorous in itself, the hotel is also well located for visiting the historic centre of Brussels and key Art Nouveau sites close by. See the full post >

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Set on the edge of the city’s lovely Old Town, the former Intourist Hotel – popular during Estonia’s Soviet era – is still a reliable tourist haven, boasting a famously lively nightclub and a small but intriguing KGB museum as a reminder of its Soviet past. See the full post >

A good value, modern apartment complex within walking distance of Playa de Pals, one of the Costa Brava’s longest and most impressive beaches. Built around landscaped gardens with two swimming pools, the apartments are light and airy, if not overly stylish. The staff are very helpful. See the full post >

A good value aparthotel with charming staff and contemporary, if simple, apartments. Some of the Costa Brava’s most beautiful beaches are less than ten minutes’ drive away and there are also wonderful medieval villages within easy reach. A great base for exploring the region. See the full post >

A good value hotel with a stunning location overlooking the gorgeous Tamariu cove. Décor harks back to the 60s when the hotel was built but views from the terraces and sea-view rooms are spectacular. A steep flight of stairs leads you straight down to the beach. See the full post >