Tucson, Arizona, is a city nestled in the dramatic backdrop of several mountain ranges. It lies in the Sonoran Desert, but, unlike many would think, it’s brimming with nature for the adventurous. After all, this city was formed from a Spanish fort built here during the 18th century and the people staying here had to be hardy and daring.
The city’s diverse population and close proximity to Mexico allowed it to have some of the best Mexican food in the world. It earned the title of being one of the United States UNESCO Creative Cities, and was the only places nominated for gastronomy. It is also home to the University of Arizona, and students say that even in the confines of their school, nature and great Mexican food aren’t far away.
So, if you’re up for strong flavours, sand, and scorpions, check out these 5 HomeAway and Vrbo vacation rentals that capture the character of Tucson:
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on July 16, 2022.
1. Ceiling-to-floor windows in the desert (from USD 167)
Want to be completely surrounded by the desert landscape, but not quite fully committed to sleeping in tents? Look no further than this listing. Enjoy awesome views while lying in the comfort of bed, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The sloped ceilings help to create a cosy vibe. Imagine the thrill of being able to spot a coyote or a javelina trotting by your window in the morning. Awake to the grand daybreak of the desert. The house is composed of two units that are connected by a covered breezeway. Through the breezeway, you can enter an open-concept, fully stocked kitchen. It faces west, so whip out your shades as you enjoy the sunset as you whip up dinner. If you’re seeking privacy and tranquility in the desert but also want a touch of luxury, this listing might just be perfect for you.
Desert Beauty, Close to City, Quiet and Private
Area: Near N Cotaro Road and W Ina Road, Tucson, AZ
Price: from 137 USD
Number of Guests: 2
Access: Down a private gravel road, shared only by the owner’s home
14.2 km (8.9 mi) from Tucson Mountain ParkAccommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy :
Top guest reviews
Host:
great job to the owner james and his wonderful property managerjames and carella were wonderful hostseveryone was very helpful with us answering any questions we hadvery accommodating in friendly caretakerwe also enjoyed getting to meet james the owner who was incredibly kindRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location: close to great hiking and close to suppliesthe location is exceptional - a mile or so from some very nice restaurants and food grocery storeshowever don’t let the close proximity of these stores deter from the serene location of the housespectacular home in a beautiful dessert locationthis is one of the most elegant architecturally interesting places we’ve ever rented
2. Masterpiece with infinity pool and spa (from USD 605)
Need somewhere spectacular and rustic for a larger group, perhaps for three generations of your family? This enchanting masterpiece of a home will have even the fussiest in-laws feeling like aristocrats in their desert mansion. Enter the space through a 1,700-square-foot (158-square-metre) fireplace-lit patio. There are three gorgeous suites with en suite bathrooms, and another king-sized bedroom with a walk-in shower. Some have functioning fireplaces to keep you warm on wintry desert nights. To really give you that luxury edge, all the rooms are equipped with LED TVs. Look at all the timeless decor and furniture that adorns the bedrooms, especially this master suite. Combined with the natural grandeur of your surroundings, you will feel like you’ve stepped into an old wild west romance novel. And, of course, who could forget this absolutely incredible 7-person infinity pool with heating options? Watch the views all around you reflect off the calm surface of the water. Step into the pool in the day to escape the blistering Tucson heat. Turn the heat up and take a dip at night to comfort yourself in the desert cold. You can be sure to expect nothing but a luxurious stay with these hosts; they have been in the home rental business for 11 years and have had many 5-star reviews for their property.
Masterpiece with Infinity Pool and Spa
Area: W Aklam Rd, Rwin Hills Estate, AZ
Price: from 334 USD
Number of Guests: 10
4.13 km (2.6 mi) from Tucson Mountain ParkAccommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 6
Refund Policy :
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our daughter is an aspiring chef and loved the kitchen cooking delicious mealsCleanliness:
there is an amazing outdoor recreation area with cool infinity pool and spacious hot tubHost:
ron was a great host he has an attention to detail and responded to all inquisitions promptlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location of the house is very private and so quiet ron was such a great host
3. The Casita at Cima del Cerro (from 87 USD)
This quaint guest house, located on top of a hill, is full of that Tucson desert-side charm. Its location allows visitors to witness sweeping views of many of the mountain ranges that surround Tucson, including Rincon, Catalina, and Tortolita. Settle down to sexy, red hot sunsets that you can watch from the Casita’s patio. It has old-school architecture with a lovely warm orange colour scheme on the inside, matching the beauty of the surroundings in the evening. Other unique touches are the Mexican-influenced decorations that fill the home, including the kitchen tiles and dining tables. Even the stylish bedrooms have flashes of the Mexican theme, such as the bed sheets. Relax in the cosy little living room in front of the warming fireplace. Guests are also allowed to relax on the patio of the owners’ houses, and also use the pool if it’s in season.
With rave reviews and 5-star ratings, we are sure this house will not disappoint.
Quaint Adobe Guest House loaded with Tucson Charm and Spectacular Views
Area: W el Camino del Cerro, Tucson, AZ
Price: from 87 USD
Number of Guests: 4
4. A Tucson time machine (from USD 221)
The Starlight Casa is a HomeAway that was built with the aim of transporting the vacationer back to the time of the pioneers. It’s isolated, beautifully, and historically inspired. This canyon is the desert’s secret, and even long-time locals don’t know that this area of Tucson exists. The artists involved in the construction of the property often comment on how well hidden this stay is. Spot wildlife wander around your home as you spend sun-soaked afternoons on the patio. As the evening sun turns into night, travel back hundreds of years, contemplating the unchanging nature of the stars. The casita was built with authentic Tucson architectural design elements in mind. The traditional motifs and structures inside the home harken back to another time, but modern appliances in the kitchen allow you to prepare a warm meal in minutes. The natural building materials and high ceilings moderate temperatures superbly, providing you comfort in the desert. An example is this spacious, rustic bedroom; the high ceilings work like natural air-conditioning.
If you’re looking to get a glimpse of old Tucson in a near-magical setting, this HomeAway is perfect for you.
Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show
Area: Between Nebraska St, S.Beehive Ave, and the W Placita de Terra, Tucson, AZ
Price: from 277USD
Number of Guests: 6
7.89 km (5.0 mi) from Tucson Mountain ParkAccommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 5
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there is also plenty of comfortable outdoor seating with views in every directionCleanliness:
the house was clean and comfortablethe house is well appointed (better than some 5 star hotels we've stayed in ) and super cleanhome was well equipped and extremely clean we would definitely stay here againit's well-stocked very clean and has comfortable indoor and outdoor space to spend time togetherHost:
the owners responded quickly and were very easy to work withhe was very attentive and courteousfirst of all andrew was a wonderful hostwe will be back fantastic hostRead more reviewsLocation:
location was beautiful with very easy access back to tucson and surrounding areathis is a great place very relaxing and close to everythingthis location is great for anyone looking to experience the desert lifeeverything about this property was perfect the location is the main draw
5. The mountainside Mollohan Castle (from USD 245)
If you’re looking for a stay in the desert with an accommodation that resembles your childhood fantasy of what your very own castle would look like, Mollohan Castle is right up your alley. There is an exciting range of themed rooms in this castle, from Rapunzel’s Tower to a gloomy dungeon. Play pretend in a well equipped environment full of props. Bust out your imagination and have your kids rescue you from sand demons. The bedrooms are regal in their own right, with rich wooden posts and maroon carpets. Chill out here like a king or queen after making your rounds in town. The view from the outside isn’t bad either; the dusty roads, mountain ranges, and towering cacti really give you a sense that you’re defending your own fort.
If you need a HomeAway with a quirky personality to bring out the best of your Tucson experience, here is a great choice for you.
MOLLOHAN CASTLE Mountain side seclusion / City views and Sonoran Desert
Area: W Mollohan Drive, Santa Cruz Southwest, Tucson, AZ
Number of Guests: 8
8.86 km (5.6 mi) from Tucson Mountain ParkAccommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 20
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
play pool or ping pong on the deckon the down side it seems that this facility is still a work in progressthe bed in the master bedroom was very comfortable as was the living roomHost:
daniel was a good host and has a neat visionthe owner is friendly and very accommodatingand danny is a great hostdanny was very helpful and friendlythe owner was quick to help and gave suggestions on where to eatRead more reviewsLocation:
it was very easy to access and had grocers and shopping very close bycool place a work in progressloved it had a total blast excellent location to do all the tucson stuff
Tucson: bold and hearty
Admittedly, Tucson is not for the faint of heart. The sandy desert with its extreme temperatures and the abundance of wild animals are not everyone’s cup of tea. Still, with its beautiful landscapes and its pride in its heritage, this city is worth stepping out of your comfort zone for. These five HomeAways are sure to make anyone feel right at home though.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to