The 10 Most Unique Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Europe - Updated 2024

Ibrahim
Ibrahim 
Updated
| 6 min read

Even a lifetime will not be enough to finish exploring all of Europe. This multicultural continent has a lot to offer, from vibrant cities to beautiful countryside. It is brimming with historic monuments, modern buildings, museums, art venues, and natural wonders. A trip to the continent is incomplete without sampling its diverse array of cuisines. Come and try out the falafel sandwiches in Paris, take the Alpine train in Switzerland, see the aurora borealis in Iceland or Sweden, and much more. This destination has many uncommon sights and experiences. And for travelers who wish to go deeper, there are many quirky accommodations spread across the continent. From a transparent yurt surrounded by nature to an ancient tower, check this list of the most unique Airbnb vacation rentals in Europe.

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 April 11, 2024.

1. Moinho do Marco, Setúbal, Portugal (from USD 136)

How about staying in an old, converted windmill that dates back to the mid-19th century? Nestled in Setúbal, this unique accommodation is surrounded by nature and vistas of Setúbal Bay and Sado Estuary.

Still maintaining its vintage charm and features, the inside is tastefully decorated with wall art and creative color combinations. Plus, it’s air-conditioned and has a TV in the living room, a full kitchen for your cooking needs, and even laundry amenities. Guests can loosen up on the terrace with a book and enjoy the views, while those who prefer to get active can go hiking in the nearby Arrábida Natural Park.

Stayed at this property?
Setúbal, Portugal
201 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Windmill 1 Bed 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had fresh flowers in every room and everything is decorated with care
it was an incredibly comfortable place to stay for a couple days
Cleanliness:
the place was immaculately clean and decorated with love
Host:
guadalupe was a wonderful host
guadalupe is an amazing host and the windmill is one of a kind
amazing place scenery and our host was amazing
an amazing experience to stay in the windmill warm and friendly hosts who were so helpful throughout our stay
guadalupe was incredibly hospitable and kind the windmill was a lovely choice for an evening with my boyfriend
Location:
really well located inside the park
located near arrábida you can start walking from the house which is nice
the location was close to town situated on a hill in a private and peaceful setting
hikes from the front door are great and it's a nice walk into town
it was a wonderful vacation at a fantastic place
Read more reviews

2. Lava Cave Suite, Santorini, Greece (from USD 493)

Feel at home in this old cave, which once accommodated sailors in the late 19th century. Although it has been fully updated, the quirky rental still maintains its original cave-curved Aegean island theme. It boasts a dazzling wall and all amenities you’ll expect in a house, including a kitchenette, living area with an HDTV, and more. Even breakfast is provided daily.

While kicking back on the patio or unwind in the hot tub, you’ll be greeted by unparalleled views of the sparkling waters and volcanoes. In Santorini, this place is your best bet if you’re searching for a unique experience with your partner.

Stayed at this property?
Santorini, Egeo, Greece
179 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Cave 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
and obviously the view is mesmerising the breakfast (which also can become your lunch) is wonderful
great view cozy apartment and very romantic
the room had fresh fruits wine snacks water coffee etc
we enjoyed our stay here and especially love the heated jacuzzi pool
Cleanliness:
also there is house keeping and clean towels everyday
Host:
the staff were amazing and extremely helpful and accommodating
what a host from greeting us on our arrival to seeing us off on our departure
katrina was very kind welcome me and introduce me some place should go
she is so sweet and so helpful
katerina our host is an extremely warm and helpful person
Location:
great cave house accommodation in a prime location in santorini
the location is great not too far off the main street of oia
you cannot beat the location right in the middle of the most popular area of oia
my boyfriend and i saved up to stay at this location for our last night of our trip
perfect location with a beautiful view
Read more reviews

3. Birdbox, Fauske, Norway (from USD 389)

Nestled on a small mountainside farm in Fauske, this one-bedroom property offers unbeatable nature views to absolute tranquility. With the flowing river, birds, mountains, soothing forest winds, and trees as your only company, the home is ideal for taking an extended break off the stress of everyday life.

Inside, you can read a book, relax, meditate, or take Instagram-worthy photos of the great outdoors from the large windows. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby, should you wish to get active during your holiday. The home can accommodate two guests, and pets are welcome to join in. What’s more? The town of Førde, where you can buy groceries, is 15 minutes away.

Stayed at this property?
Forde, Vestland fylke, Norway
382 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Treehouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great view and cozy cabin
very cozy place with a great view
perfect place to enjoy nature with stunning view from our bed in a very relaxing and peaceful place
the view from this place is unbelievable the bed is super comfortable and the room is very stylish
it was nice and warm and the rain made it cozy
Host:
torstein is easy and quick to communicate with and a great host
Location:
great place to get away from everything
lovely weekend gateway location locating in a stunning region of norway
sure it was beautiful and the location was great
the location is outstanding despite being just a room it was very confortable and cosy
it is a great place to go glamping
Read more reviews

4. Casa Tierra, Villarrubia, Spain (from USD 223)

Accessible via a large, beautiful garden, this unique property is situated inside a stone quarry. It is believed to have been inhabited initially around the 10th century. Despite being a troglodyte home, its interior is by no means old-fashioned. From its furniture to its large size, the property is aesthetically appealing and comfortable. And its temperature is maintained between 18ºC to 20ºC (64ºF to 68ºF).

What’s more, you’ll find a kitchen, TV, baby crib, and washing machine inside for use. Furthermore, out in the garden is a shared pool to swim in after a long day. Also, you’ll find supermarkets, banks, eateries, and more in Villarrubia village, about 2 km (1.2 mi) from the property.

Stayed at this property?
Villarrubia, Córdoba, AL, Spain
199 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Cave 3 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was at a very comfortable temperature inside even without any fan or aircon
we were able to leave our dogs in a safe comfortable space when we visited the city
the house is warm and comfortable and the setting is really magical
even the bathroom made me say wow when i saw it
Cleanliness:
beautiful house clean big outdoor pool and quiet
the house itself was sparklingly clean and had everything that you could need for a self catered holiday
it is so well kept and clean with a lovely terrace and private yard
Host:
caring kind helpful host
this is all helped by the host - amalia is the perfect host
she‘s a lovely host
amalia was a great host quick to respond and caring
it was a fantastic experience nice hosts and very nice place
Location:
good location just a short drive from córdoba
house is very cool literally and figuratively perfect location for day trips to cordoba
the location is completely idyllic and so relaxing
this is a perfect place to relax take a break and for a slow paced vacation
beautiful location really cool to sleep in a cave
Read more reviews

5. Ancient seaside tower for a small family, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Italy (from USD 101)

A beautiful stay awaits you and your small family in this ancient coastal tower in Olbia-Tempio, Italy. Called the old Sarazen Tower, it boasts lovely views of the sea, especially from the rooftop. If you wish to soak up the sun and salt, there are two sandy beaches within walking distance of the tower. You can even indulge in swimming and snorkeling.

Spread across three floors, this property has beautiful wall arts and dark-wood furniture, which makes it appealing. Plus, it comes with everything you need for a self-sufficient stay, including two bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a well-equipped kitchen for home cooking.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Teresa di Gallura, Olbia-Tempio, Italy
94 reviews   Wifi Available
Lighthouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
when we arrived the tower had just been renovated and was very clean
check-in and check-out went smooth and the tower was very clean and tidy
very clean and everything you would need we would definitely come back
Host:
beat was very nice host
beat was a wonderful host
this home is beautiful and one-of-a-kind perfect location
just superb great host great location great house everything is perfect thank you very much indeed
Location:
price value definitely not correct for this location
there is private parking and you are close to many great beaches
tower located in a great location and has amazing views from the terrace
you can walk to three stunning beaches within 5-10 minutes
the neighbourhood is quiet and friendly lots of tress and rocks everywhere
Read more reviews

6. Treehouse Čiekurs, Priekuļi, Latvia (from USD 146)

With biking and hiking opportunities all around, the tranquility of nature, and the comfort of a home, outdoor aficionados will love this two-floor treehouse. It’s situated amidst a pine forest in Gauja National Park, only 3 km (1.9 mi) from the town of Cēsis.

Guests can luxuriate in the hot tub or sauna for a surcharge or have a relaxing swim in the nearby lake. You can enjoy boating and fishing in the lake as well. And there’s a barbecue grill outside to roast your big catches. The inside of the house is beautifully decorated. It boasts a living room with a kitchenette and one bedroom with a double bed, ideal for two. Also, the toilet is steps away from the property.

Stayed at this property?
Priekuļi, Priekuļi Municipality, Latvia
255 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Treehouse 2 Beds 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice deck with a stunning lake view - great place to have dinner or breakfast
Cleanliness:
very clean stylish and calm place with everything you needed
treehouse is very clean stylish well decorated and comfortable
the place was very clean cozy and warm even during the coldest nights of winter
excellent stay place was clean and even tho we arrived earlier maija was ready to meet us
Host:
thanks to the hosts
maija was a very welcoming and thoughtful host
maija is a wonderful host and was always available when needed
maija is a very hospitable and friendly host
host was very welcoming and there was loads to do on the spot
Location:
great place for getaway from the stress of the city
a great place to get away from the city
the location is great too not far from town cēsis - nice place to have a dinner
it is a bit of a walk to the bathroom- but well worth it
close drive (or long walk) to the beautiful cesis
Read more reviews

7. Old mine in the middle of a forest, Viborg, Denmark (from USD 144)

Bats are a symbol of happiness in China, and if they exert the same effect on you, why not spend some days with them in this old mine? Situated in the middle of a forest, this underground rental was once home to a highwayman in the 16th century. Bats also hibernate here for 220 days yearly. You’ll find numerous hiking opportunities right outside the entrance. Also, dining options are about 4 km (2.5 mi) from this quirky rental.

Inside, it has two comfortable beds and can sleep up to two people. Plus, there’s a toilet and a faucet with clean drinking water for use in the cottage adjoining the mine. A barbecue is also available. What’s more, as it’s an underground property and can get cold, you should come along with thick clothing.

Stayed at this property?
Viborg, Denmark
73 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Cave 2 Beds 2 Guests 2 Bedrooms 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

8. Serene cottages on a private island, Katrineholm, Sweden

If you dream of vacationing on a small private island with your family, this unique accommodation is your best bet. The island, located in Södermanlands, boasts many outdoor fun opportunities such as canoeing, swimming, and fishing. Plus, there’s a restaurant within walking distance of the island. And after an action-packed day, you can pamper yourself in the sauna.

The island has four cottages — the first one has a bedroom with three beds, the second cottage includes a full kitchen and a bedroom with two beds, the third comes with a dry toilet, while the fourth one has a sauna. Although the property is off-grid, there’s a solar panel to charge phones and tablets.

Stayed at this property?
Katrineholm S, Södermanlands län, Sweden
50 reviews   Superhost
Island 5 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely place and great host
arnaud was a very very nice host
the host was very friendly and helpful
the boat to and from shore was really easy to use and arnaud was a fantastic host
arnaud was a great and helpful host
Location:
paradise so close to stockholm
fantastic location on small island
great location and atmosphere being on „your“ own island
katrineholm is a nice city either which you can visit by bus or just by walking there
an amazing place to visit
Read more reviews

9. Bubble Suite, Glarus Süd, Switzerland

Experience the peace and calm of nature in this transparent yurt set at 1559 m (5114.8 ft) above sea level on the Grotzenbüel. There will be nobody around to bother you, except the foxes, badgers, birds, and deer who come around once in a while to say hi.

From the inside, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and alpine beauty without even lifting a muscle. And pets are allowed too. There’s an outdoor barbecue, plus fireplaces nearby to gather around on a cold evening. The toilet with running water is next to the tent. What’s more, the location is car-free, so you’ll have to hike or board a horse-drawn carriage to get there.

Stayed at this property?
Glarus Süd, Glarus, Switzerland
20 reviews  
Igloo 0 Beds 2 Guests

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bubble is a hexagonal domed plastic tent which was quite warm and comfortable
Host:
the host was very responsive to the communication
Read more reviews

10. Cozy floating house on Lake Baurech, France

This floating property is located on the peaceful Lake Baurech. It provides a perfect atmosphere to rekindle the love bond with your partner or escape the stress of everyday life alone. The house is situated in Baurech, about 20 km (12.4 mi) from Bordeaux, France.

You’ll love the small but spacious and sleek interior. The house has a kitchen, a TV, as well as air conditioning and heating, thus ensuring maximum comfort at all times. And, the views of the water from the bed and spacious terrace are unparalleled. Complimentary parking is available too.

Stayed at this property?
3 reviews  
Treehouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the on site help with both the facility and local amenities was superb
Read more reviews

Experience an unusual getaway in Europe

Whether you’re in for some adventure or wish to try something new, this list of the most unique Airbnb vacation rentals in Europe is a starting point. From waking up to the views of the alps to sleeping in an old cave with dazzling white walls, a beautiful stay awaits you.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Ibrahim is a passionate writer with a keen interest in traveling. He not only travels to discover the world but also himself. And when it comes to writing, Ibrahim loves to keep it simple with a...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Europe
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.