The best Airbnbs in Italy for an authentic European stay
Travellers seeking a taste of la dolce vita in Italy need a base that truly gets under the skin of the place – and where better for an authentic stay than a splendid Italian Airbnb? The selection of home stays here is plentiful and diverse, ranging from urban penthouses with panoramic views to unfussy cottages among rolling vineyards, but all share an incomparable charm when basked in fiery Mediterranean sunsets and accompanied by delicate aperitivo tipples. Whether you’re heading towards the glamorous cities, the slow-paced beaches, or the best of both worlds on Venice’s marvellous floating islands, a plethora of dreamy Airbnbs await, and we’ve rounded up our top picks of the best Airbnbs in Italy for your next visit to the beautiful European nation.
While we have not stayed in every Airbnb featured, unless otherwise stated, these listings are vetted based on Superhost status, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor.
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Antonio e Roberto TartaglioneA modern villa set in Puglia’s rural region
The heart of the house is an open-plan living area that flows with ease and light. To the left, a honey-toned marble kitchen; ahead, a dining table that invites long meals and late-night chats; to the right, a small but cosy living area. In total, there are three double rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Think metal-framed beds, linen curtains and a generous amount of wardrobe space. The bathrooms all have showers, and the master bathroom leads out into a little backyard. Interiors have been thoughtfully curated, with an eye for designer pieces that complement artisanal works. My personal favourites are the original 1970s Balenciaga armchairs in the living room, but also the Flos Toio light in the Master bedroom is another stand-out detail.
Read Lucrezia Worthington’s full review of her favourite Airbnb in Italy here.
Sleeps: Six
Price: From around £556 per night, with a five-night minimum stay
A secluded cottage with pool in Sardinia
Sometimes less is more, and this pretty island cottage demonstrates just how effective simple design can be. Rustic materials are fused with contemporary style to create a homely pastoral vibe, one example being the elegantly carved woodwork used for bed frames, kitchen counters, and even lampshades. In the en suite master room, a dainty bed canopy floats above a super king-size bed, while oak ladders lead to secluded mezzanine coves in the two other bedrooms. Outdoor spaces are just as wonderful, too. There are three lovely terraces, two swimming pools (one with a heated jacuzzi setting), and a plethora of shady daybeds for balmy slumbers. And if that’s not enough to convince you, listen to your fellow travellers – this homestay has earned a five-star rating from 120 Airbnb users.
Sleeps: Six
Price: From around £577 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A rooftop penthouse in Milan
Suspended above the glittering skyline, this top-floor hideout provides a rare spot of serenity in the city. Picture a smart sunken jacuzzi on the terrace, Turkish-style steam chamber, and cosy cinema room, with two L-shaped suede sofas huddled around a generously sized TV. Milan is famed for being a fashion and design hub, and the diverse collection of avant-garde decor in this apartment nods towards the artistic energy of its surroundings. White shelves are stacked with funky sculptures, while a vintage motorbike hangs above the terrace sunroom, where glass walls supply panoramic views at all hours. Sleeping arrangements are two California King beds, plus an extra sofa bed, and there are three full bathrooms, each a different shade of marble.
Sleeps: Six
Price: From around £599 per night
A colourful flat near the Tower of Pisa
This sweet apartment may be one of the more modestly sized Airbnbs in Italy, but it earns a place on our shortlist for a small but mighty reason: the location. A stone’s throw from the Tower or Pisa, not only does this Airbnb offer views of the architectural wonder, but plunges guests straight to the heart of the awe-inspired atmosphere surrounding the iconic Italian landmark. The flat itself is compact, but not cramped, neatly packing a round dining table, sweeping sofa bed, and fully-equipped kitchenette into the open-plan living space. Rooms are themed either fiery red, cobalt blue, or both, creating a vibrant synergy across all the spaces, and the children’s books, toys, and tableware make this a perfect pick for families.
Sleeps: Five
Price: From around £132 per night
GAIA FUCILLIA romantic Cinque Terre apartment for two
Italy is teeming with gorgeous coastlines, but the Cinque Terre might just be our favourite – and this bijou Airbnb has the best seat in the house for gazing at the pastel-hued fishing villages as they tumble down rugged cliff faces. Found in Riomaggiore, the region’s southernmost town, the quaint balcony here hangs above sparkling ocean waters and faces the sweeping string of five neighbourhoods, connected by hiking trails. Emerald shuttered doors lead straight to the bedroom, where earthy touches like the rattan vases and wicker lamps complement the light, airy interiors. The space lacks a kitchen, but there is a round table on the balcony for refreshing aperitifs with a view, and details like the walk-in rain shower, full-length mirror, and sizeable wardrobe ensure you feel at home.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From around £212 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
An artsy loft with plant-filled rooftop terraces in Bologna
Bologna often gets overlooked for some of Italy’s other major hubs, but this city – arguably the most food-centric spot in the country – is a glorious place to spend a few days. Bonus: It also happens to have a great collection of Airbnbs, like this impossibly charming loft in the historic centre. The two rooftop terraces are the undeniable star of the space (those terracotta tiles!), but the interiors offer equal doses of Italian cosiness, with slanted wood-beam ceilings and colourful artwork at every turn.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From around £241 per night, with a three-night minimum
Seven-bedroom stone villa on 45 acres in Florence
Do not let the price tag scare you away: This Airbnb fits more than 16 in its seven bedrooms – ideal for family reunions in the Italian countryside, about an hour's drive south of Florence in Montevarchi. The 17th-century farmhouse also has a saltwater swimming pool, two fireplaces, a stone amphitheatre, and 45 acres of garden and olive groves to explore. The best perk here, according to US Traveler contributor Jayna Maleri, is actually the cook, Maria, who has been working with the villa for years. She can whip up pizzas in one of the villa's two pizza ovens, teach pasta-making classes, and more. (Hiring a cook comes at an additional cost, so message the host to work out pricing beforehand.) Bonus: That aforementioned amphitheatre has also hosted many a destination wedding; you can find inspiration for your dream nuptials on the home's Instagram.
Sleeps: 16
Price: From around £3,091 per night, with a three-night minimum
UGO & LUCA VISCIANI photographerA private chalet in the Dolomites
This architectural two-story chalet is one of the most popular Airbnb stays in the area, and it’s easy to see why. Whether for snow (you can ski in, ski out in winter) or summer sun, the curved shape of this abode lends itself to the incredible views of the Dolomite Mountains. In summer, the doors can be completely opened up to allow the outside in, while in winter, the cylindrical glass fireplace makes a bold statement. As does the dining room, with just two white chairs sitting underneath feathered chandeliers, with entirely glass walls on either side. In fact, every aspect of this design home has been thought through – gazebo, ski room, rooftop jacuzzi and gym – to make it an unforgettable and romantic stay for two.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From around £842 per night, with a two-night minimum
An apartment with canal views in Venice
This colourful apartment would make for a comfortable stay in any city – modern kitchen, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, an open plan dining and lounge area, a handy washing machine and dryer. But it’s the incredible location and knockout views that make this Airbnb a rare gem in the city of Venice. Located within the central district of Venice, this mezzanine floor apartment overlooks the famed Grand Canal, offering front row lagoon views from the lounge room and romantic terrace. While it’s possible to do some sightseeing from the balcony, much of the city’s landmarks, including the Piazza S.Marco, are within just a couple of minutes walk away.
Sleeps: Four
Price: From around £516 per night, with a two-night minimum
A two bedroom villa with a view in Positano
Don’t let the summer crowds put you off – thanks to this two bedroom Airbnb it’s more than possible to enjoy a private slice of Positano. The dream is best realised on the leafy terrace, where a lounge area and alfresco dining table overlook a spectacular Mediterranean view, romantically framed by climbing pink bougainvillaea and set to the soundtrack of a trickling fountain. For the full authentic experience, be sure to make use of the rustic kitchen, where you can rustle up a pasta dish with fresh local seafood (the towns’ markets are a short walk away) while still taking in the sea views.
Sleeps: Four
Price: From around £1,031 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A rooftop hideout, Florence
Florence from above is a sight for sore eyes. Terracotta-roofed houses give way to streaming rivers, cobblestone streets and ancient churches with colourful domes and spires. This glass-walled apartment is the perfect spot for a longer stay, with slick, modern interiors, bright pops of colour and plenty of light. It’s particularly good for remote working; set up on the dining-room table to soak up views across the Florentine hills and city centre – plus, the Wi-Fi is super fast.
Sleeps: Four
Price: From around £245 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A traditional Puglian trullo
With its white-sand beaches, gnarled olive groves and ancient towns, Puglia is one of our favourite southern Italian regions. And despite a recent surge in interest it remains as calm, humble and tranquil as ever. On your next trip, stay in a traditional trullo, a dry-stone-walled hut found only in this region in Italy's heel. While they were originally built as shelters for local labourers or farmers, some trulli have now been renovated into charming holiday homes. This one dates back to 1714, although the interiors speak more to a contemporary audience. Cream stone walls reflect light from alcoves, pale furnishings add a sleek, modern touch and hanging plants add splashes of colour throughout.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From around £86 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A waterside villa in Lake Como
Italy’s greatest lake has long been associated with glitz and glamour; a storied destination where elegance is key and maximalism is expected. For your next group trip, gather up 11 of your nearest and dearest for a stay in this whitewashed villa. Split across two buildings, the property blends Lake Como’s old-world charm with a contemporary allure. Thick, wooden beams hang over freestanding bathtubs and stone walls, stacks of wooden logs and giant rustic dining tables add a family feel, contrasting with modern, glass-walled bedrooms and sleek marble kitchens, while open-air terraces provide unobstructed views across the water. Outside, a shady, manicured terrace is perfect for sundowner drinks or al-fresco dining, and a tranquil swimming pool overlooks the lake.
Sleeps: 12
Price: From around £3,585 per night, with a four-night minimum stay
A Tuscan family farmhouse
While Tuscany is known for its rolling hills braided with vineyards and farmland, hidden between the landscape's curves are sprawling estates with rustic villas and endless views. Here, a giant swimming pool looks out between towering cypress trees across to the nearby hills, there’s a shady terrace for when the sun gets too much and even an adventure park with slides and climbing frames for kids. Family feasts can be enjoyed at the rustic dining table in the kitchen, or you can round everyone up into the cosy living room for a games evening (there’s a pool table, too). But the pièce de résistance has to be the bathrooms; in the shower room, every shade of red can be found in the mosaic tiles covering floors and walls, and a wooden hot tub takes pride of place in the stone-walled main bathroom.
Sleeps: Seven
Price: From around £172 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A grand city centre apartment in Rome
The cobbled streets of the Italian capital offer plenty of chic places to stay, but this one is our favourite. Enter through a short, dark tunnel that opens up into a baby-blue-tinged stone courtyard, with plants cascading from sculpted balconies and curved stained-glass windows adding a historic feel. Climb the staircase to find the apartment, which lives up to its grand exteriors. Giant, gold-trimmed mirrors adorn the walls, sunlight streams through windows draped with fluttering curtains and plush bed frames are fit for royalty. Look up for artwork – just below the cornicing are elaborate frescoes copies of ancient Roman art.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From around £229 per night, with a two-night minimum stay
A Venitian art-filled jewel box
In a city with a history as colourful as Venice, it’s only right to stay in a place just as brilliantly vivid. Bubblegum-pink exteriors hint at what’s hidden inside; a two-bedroom home with crystal chandeliers, terrazzo flooring, marble bathrooms and some of the most eclectic furnishings to be paired together. Lime-green curtains act as room dividers, hot-pink and baby-blue tablecloths cover wooden tables, and old Italian artwork including giant portraits, animal sketches and religious enactments are interspersed with gold-rimmed mirrors, grand candles and some of the artist’s own work. While away the hours in your own at-home gallery, or head out to explore some of Venice’s most famous museums.
Sleeps: Six
Price: From around £221 per night, with a three-night minimum stay
A Tuscan medieval tower
There’s nothing quite like holing up in a typically Tuscan villa for the summer. But ever dreamt of staying in a traditional Tuscan tower instead? This 11-storey castle looms over San Gimignano, a hill town surrounded by 13th-century walls with piazzas, medieval houses and 12th-century churches. Spend days wandering about the town, taste-testing your way through family-owed trattorias and vinotecas, before retreating to your own tower for a regal stay amid thick stone walls, spiral staircases and views stretching across the Tuscan countryside.
Sleeps: Three
Price: From around £526 per night
