When you find yourself daydreaming of the perfect summer vacation, what do you picture? An oceanfront view, rolling green hills in the Italian countryside or the stone walls of a castle? Airbnb has always been a great option for affordable and quirky accommodations, but these homes take the whole “rental” idea to a new level of amazing. From a bamboo cottage in Bali to a windmill in Santorini, Greece, these getaways will have you wanting to cancel your return flight.
1. Villa in Bali ($169 a night): Instead of staying in separate hotel rooms, wouldn’t it be more fun to spend time with your friends at your own private villa? This villa has three bedrooms and is recommended for six friends. Close to Bali’s most popular resort town, this villa is place where you can enjoy the peace and quiet all day and then head into town for a great dinner.
2. Cottage in Mexico ($95 a night): If you really want to get away from it all, head to the little fishing village of Yelapa and check out this private retreat, which is only accessible by water taxi. The owner is a recognized gourmet chef and has designed her fantasy kitchen for guests to use. After you eat, take a dip in the freshwater pool or head down to the beach to enjoy the sun.
3. Boutique Eco Lodge in Nicaragua ($265 a night): Overlooking the lush hillside jungle, this oceanside rental has jaw-dropping views, even from the pool. The 3,500-square-foot house has room for eight, or you can just rent a room if you like. Be at one with nature and experience jungle life in this small, private community that has been designed using green building concepts, native hardwoods and stone.
4. Farmhouse in Italy ($320 a night): History buffs and romantics will love this restored 16th-century farmhouse in the Italian countryside. Even though the building is historic, the atmosphere is luxurious and comfortable, and you’ll definitely feel pampered as you try to choose between sunbathing by the pool, exploring the countryside or venturing into the village to enjoy local food.
5. Villa in Greece ($185 a night): This 17th-century villa is located in a perfectly preserved village in Greece. It’s also kid-friendly and a short drive to the beach! You’ll feel refreshed just admiring the decor of deep blue accents, bright white walls and charming elements like exposed stone walls and beam ceilings.
6. Bamboo Cottage in Bali ($70 a night): Get your mind, body and soul realigned as you enjoy the complete peace of the Balinese countryside. A five-minute walk from the town of Ubud — a hotspot for yoga retreats — the cottage has many comfortable amenities such as a complimentary cell phone, a traditional dinner served with candlelight, breakfast delivery every morning and rice fields to explore when you’re feeling well rested.
7. A Windmill in Greece ($327 a night): Did you know there is an award for “best sunset”? Apparently it exists, and this little town draws travelers from all over the world to see their world-renowned sunsets. A stay in this dreamy pastel windmill definitely feels like something out of a fairy tale.
8. French Cavern ($86 a night): You won’t get views with this cozy little rental, but you will get a truly unique and quite romantic place to stay while exploring the hometown of Leonardo da Vinci. Real talk: If you’re honeymooning, who needs windows anyways?
9. Treehouse in Georgia ($364 a night): What kid didn’t dream of living in a treehouse? Although to be fair, even as adults, we definitely wouldn’t say no to a night or two in this very romantic, woodsy getaway. You’ll probably get the best sleep of your life while being surrounded by the sounds of nature. Major bonus? Fresh coffee is delivered every morning.
10. Houseboat in Denmark ($168 a night): Why settle for oceanfront views when you can actually stay on the water? Enjoy the views from this modern and stylish houseboat in Copenhagen. When you start craving solid ground, take a water taxi to the beautiful city center and enjoy biking around and gathering things for dinner.
11. Modern Apartment in Iceland ($116 a night): There are breathtaking views and then there are views like this. Head to Iceland this summer and you can enjoy the wonders of the midnight sun, or you can wait to vacation in winter and see the Aurora Borealis. Don’t worry; even though it looks remote, a thriving little town is just ten minutes away with lots of restaurant options for the nights you’d rather not cook.
12. Geodome in Spain ($35 a night): Think of this like the grown-up version of a European backpacking trip. A colorful, faceted dome gives you a cozy place to spend the night and you can spend your days baking pizza in the oven, practicing your skills on the grill, lounging on the sun-drenched deck or exploring the lakes around the Andalusia area.
13. Container Home in Spain ($130 a night): Tiny homes are trending now, but we’ve never seen a container home quite this stylish — it even has its own private pool! Located in a very quiet neighborhood, the home is perfectly situated for exploring by bike, barbecuing on the porch or heading into the town of Palma for restaurants and nightlife.
14. Industrial Apartment in Tokyo ($295 a night): If urban vibes are more your thing, you can stay right in the center of Tokyo in a stunningly cool apartment. With both Japanese and Scandinavian decor throughout, all you design lovers will be in heaven. It’s close to all of Ginza’s famous shopping, markets and restaurants, so you might have a hard time deciding whether you want to go explore or enjoy your mini oasis.
What’s the coolest rental you’ve ever stayed at? Tell us your travel stories in the comments below!
