Airbnb has been at the forefront of the sharing economy, yet many families are hesitant to give it a try. I certainly understand the concerns…is it safe, is it clean, what if they cancel, what if it is a scam, what if it is awful? I plan trips for families all the time and I know many feel like they are willing to take some risks when traveling solo or as a couple, but when it comes to their kids, they want something that is vetted and proven to be family friendly. So I have teamed up with my fellow travel bloggers to get their recommendations on the best Airbnbs for families around the globe. I came up with this massive list of 40 Airbnb rentals from family travelers that they know to be kid friendly.
If you haven’t tried Airbnb yet, then be sure to sign up using my referral link and you will receive $40 off your first stay (plus I’ll get a bonus after you take a trip!) Sign up here.
Airbnb Tips for Families
Even if you have used Airbnb before, there are still some tips you should keep in mind (see all my tips for using Homeaway and Airnb here.)
- Select “entire home” under room type. I’d never expect a family to want to share a home or room with strangers.
- Read the description carefully and don’t make any assumptions. Some of the gotchas to look for include:
- Stairs vs elevator
- Check in time / check out time (remember, it isn’t like you can store your bags with the bellman!)
- Cleaning fee
- Extra person fees
- Air conditioning or fans?
- WiFi?
- Baby proof / kid proof?
- Make sure they offer all the gear you need. Do you need a baby crib, high chair, fully stocked kitchen supplies, washing machine, etc? Even if they don’t have some of the baby items, they may have a source for rentals.
- Location, location, location. Don’t accept descriptions like “steps to the beach” or “minutes from the city center.” There are over 5,000 steps in a mile and 60 minutes in an hour. Get specifics. I also like to plug the location into Google Maps to check and see what is in the neighborhood (is there a grocery store nearby, what about public transportation?) I then look on Google Earth to see what the neighborhood looks like. Is it clean, dirty, busy, quiet? This will give you a better picture of what to expect than the glamour shots that hosts sometimes use of the area.
- Read the reviews. Read them all and don’t stay at a place without reviews. Look for little things like, the Wifi was spotty, the bed was uncomfortable, the shower didn’t have enough hot water, or the hosts were hard to reach.
With that said, if you would rather follow in the footsteps of those who have gone before. Then pick one of these Airbnbs from around that world that are family-tested.
Best Airbnbs for Families Around the World
[sta_anchor id=”north-america” unsan=”North America”]Best Airbnbs for Families in North America[/sta_anchor]
Punta Uva, Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Our favorite Airbnb experience was in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Within a few days, we had the experience of what it would be like to live there. Our host clued us in to favorite local spots and brought us fresh fish from the market and provided us our ride to our next Airbnb. See this Airbnb!
Linzey Taylor, The Family Fun Tour
Turks & Caicos
[sta_anchor id=”south-america” unsan=”South America”]Best Airbnbs for Families in South America[/sta_anchor]
Aruba
I recently stayed in an Airbnb in Aruba, and was absolutely blown away! The photos on the site didn’t even do it justice! I’m originally from Edmonton in Canada, but have been traveling the world for five years straight. I thought it would be nice for my grandma and I to meet up in Aruba for a week for some relaxation, and Airbnb was our best bet. We were blown away by the huge room, the lovely patio, and the amazing pool that barely had anyone at it (as opposed to giant resorts!) The room had two big beds plus a couple couches, fridge, stove – the works! We could eat out or make our own food no problem, and the hosts were just amazing. There was even a BBQ in the pool area we could use, and hammocks all around. I cannot rave about this place enough! See this Airbnb!
From Danielle, Like Riding a Bicycle
[sta_anchor id=”europe” unsan=”Europe”]Best Airbnbs for Families in Europe[/sta_anchor]
Don’t forget you can sign up using my referral link and you will receive $40 off your first stay!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Finding a hotel room in Reykjavik can be challenging (and expensive!) Luckily, we scored a reservation at a two-bedroom apartment in downtown Reykjavik, just a block of the famous Laugavegur shopping street. Our host was kind enough to wait for our very late arrival. While it was a pain to lug our suitcases up to the third floor, we were happy to have the extra space to spread out. This is clearly still a primary residence, so we had to work around our host’s personal belongings, but it is well suited for families as it even had a toddler bed. See this Airbnb!
By Tamara Gruber, We3Travel
County Clare, Ireland
We often use AirBnB when traveling in Ireland, but the most special one we have stayed in has to be Knappogue Castle. This private castle -yes, your family are the only overnight guests!!- is exactly what Ireland vacation dreams are made of. The private apartment accommodations are furnished with a wonderful mix of incredible antiques and contemporary comfort. Each morning your ‘fairy godmothers’ arrive to prepare a magnificent breakfast that will power your sightseeing until it’s time for afternoon tea, which you can enjoy in the sitting room or the wonderful walled garden. In the evening you may wish to join the Medieval Banquet that takes place in the dining hall, where good food, lively music, and fantastic tales are shared. And in between time you are free to step back in time and explore where the winding tower stairs will take you. See this Airbnb!
By Jody Halstead, Ireland Family Vacations
Ring of Beara, Ireland
We love this Airbnb just across from the Ring of Kerry on the Ring of Beara. It is a 15-minute drive to Kenmare, a cute little Irish village. The cottage is up on top of a mountain and the views were simply fantastic. At night, you have a beautiful view of the stars with no light pollution. During the day, the views over the ocean and the Ring of Kerry are outstanding. The cottage has a full kitchen, two bedrooms, one bathroom, living room, and a sun room. The owner, Martin, lives close by and has three boys who are available to play with your kids. He also has animals like ducks and goats on the property. This Airbnb is the perfect mix of a country cottage with all the privacy you could want, while being close to the conveniences of a small village. If you need a cottage that sleeps more than four, they have a larger one on the property as well. See this Airbnb!
By Nicole Debickes, Family with Latitude
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
As a family of five, our accommodation requirements include good location and great pricing. Stathmashie House in the Scottish Highlands was a winner with the children before we even got out of the car. Set in a location that literally takes your breath away, we were greeted by the properties gorgeous dog, two horses and chickens…as well as the host, Chris, of course.
The Butlers flat was rustic and cozy, with plenty of room for us. We also found out Queen Victoria once visited the Hunting Lodge! ur children panned for gold in the little stream near the property, enjoyed exploring the grounds, and spending time with all the animals. The property is slightly off the beaten track and it is a drive to nearby facilities, just the way we like it. There are plenty of beautiful walks in the area and a nearby waterfall to explore. See this Airbnb!
By Kirsty Hill, Travel with Meraki
Falkland, Scotland
London, England
We selected this central London Airbnb because of its ability to sleep our family of five in relative comfort and security, its cost per night, and its proximity to transportation and tourist sites. The flat is charmingly decorated (rather glam) with a bow window, high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers. My husband and I slept in the double-bed room, our son in the tiny second bedroom, and our two daughters on the living room’s pull-out sofa. Guests can use the building’s tiny elevator or the carpeted staircase. Basic cooking supplies are available in the kitchen, and the hostess provided some snacks, coffee/tea, and bread. There is a full-fledged grocery store within a couple blocks. I can’t say enough about the location. Nearby are Tube stations and Paddington station, a Heathrow Airport connection. Additionally, it was pleasant to walk the neighborhood of Marylebone with its many charming corners and tiny streets. See this Airbnb!
From Holly Jacobsen, Sleeps5
Paris, France
We loved this family-friendly apartment in the heart of Paris! It is near metro and restaurants, with easy access to the unit by taking either an elevator or the stairs. You enter through the front door into a cozy open living room, dining area and kitchen. There are two spacious private bedrooms, one with a queen size bed and the other with two single beds and shelving – the kids immediately claimed their territories and made themselves at home. The kitchen even has a washing machine for clothes. The company that manages the apartment is extremely professional, had a person waiting to check us in upon arrival, and stored our bags prior to our departure. We would definitely rent this apartment again! See this Airbnb!
Bordeaux, France
We stayed in a little farm outside Bordeaux. Our host had us for a real french dinner, took my kids to the dairy and helped us garden. I’m dying to go back just to visit her! See this Airbnb!
Krakow, Poland
I’m often asked how my family and I can afford to travel around Europe for weeks at a time. We are able to do so because we seek out affordable Airbnb apartments for our family of four. In July of 2016, we traveled through Poland and Lithuania, staying at Airbnb apartments along the way. We especially loved our rental apartment in Krakow, Poland. It’s a one-bedroom with a pull-out couch in the living room. My husband and I slept in the bedroom; the kids shared the pull-out. It more than suited our needs, especially since the price was approximately $65 per night. The apartment is in a prime location – only 10 minutes by foot to Krakow’s old town – and has a washing machine and air conditioning (which was most welcomed in July). It’s a perfect apartment for families on a budget. See this Airbnb!
By Francesca Mazurkiewicz, Working Moms Travels
Budapest, Hungary
Vienna, Austria
Brasov, Romania
Florence, Italy
Lucca, Italy
Óbidos, Portugal
We were traveling around Portugal with our little ones, age one and three at the time. We stayed in great apartments in Lisbon and Porto, and built in plenty of “kid time,” but our older son was having a tough time—lots of meltdowns. For our last night we booked this Airbnb in the middle of the country, near Óbidos. We had trouble finding it, but once we got there, it was like a weight lifted off everyone’s shoulders. The place is beautiful, an old winery turned handsome three-bedroom country guesthouse, with a yard to explore and stunning orchards outside the front gate. The kids immediately found their happy place, playing outside in the sandbox and playhouse with the older kids of the hosts, who live in the main house. It was late, so they offered to make dinner, and brought us plenty of homemade wine. We were so sad to leave after just one night! See this Airbnb!
By Laura Siciliano-Rosen, Eat Your World
Rome, Italy
After many apartment rentals in Spain, Rome was our first Airbnb experience and it was perfect! We rented a three-bedroom, two-bath apartment with a kitchen and lounge just steps away from the Colosseum in a lovely, residential neighborhood. It was so cool to look out the window at the Colosseum at night and leave the window open and listen to the music playing nearby. We had more space than we knew what to do with and we enjoyed coming back in the afternoon to relax with a drink and snack before getting ready for dinner. For under $250 per night, this was a steal in Rome for all the space! See this Airbnb!
By Tamara Gruber, We3Travel
Porto, Portugal
Porto is a unique place that combines cobblestoned alleys with steep streets, colourful houses, beautiful tiles and endless views of the sea passing by. The apartment we stayed in was perfectly located. It’s been only a short walk until we reached the center. Also, famous landmarks of Porto, such as the Clerigos Tower, the Lello Bookstore and the Virtudes Garden are basically around the corner. When arriving, we were greeted with a bottle of water and a bottle of Portuguese red wine – could arriving be any easier? The building that our apartment was located in was a typical Portuguese one: tiles that decorated the façade and huge doors. All in all we had the perfect experience here and loved starting the day by looking out of our window and watching Porto’s daily life go by. See this Airbnb!
By Clemens Sehi, Travellers Archive
Porto, Portugal
Barcelona, Spain
I have stayed in many Airbnb places in Barcelona with our family but the last three years we keep on going back to this amazing place. The apartment is very homey which gives you a welcoming feel straight away and its location is literally unbeatable with just two-minutes walking distance from the hippest street in Barcelona: Passeig de Gracia. The best thing about this apartment is that it is a penthouse and therefore has two very spacious balconies with unobstructed views over Barcelona. The house owners live only five minutes away and will make sure you feel comfortable and fulfill all your needs during your stay. They will give you recommendations about cool places around to have a coffee or to go for dinner. See this Airbnb!
By Tom Grond, Dutch Travel Blogger at Travel Tom Tom
Paros, Greece
Santorini, Greece
My husband and I have always been fans of hotels so I was a little surprised when my other half finally agreed to try Airbnb for our autumn break to Santorini. The photos of the villa in Pyrgos looked incredible but would it live up to expectations? The view from the apartment certainly did! Its elevated position looking out over Santorini was incredible. I happily awoke each morning to the sun rising over the caldera. The property may not have been as luxurious as a 5 star hotel but having our own privacy and pool was bliss.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
The apartment is in the middle of the city centre of Ljubljana and has a secure garage. It is spacious, full of light and with a modern clean design. We walked in and felt at home immediately! We travelled with our then six-months old and the apartment came with toys and was very child friendly. Location wise it is perfect to explore Ljubljana on foot, all major sights, an abundance of restaurants and a great lively market square can be reached within less than five minutes. Ljubljana itself is an underrated destination that should be on your travel radar. See this Airbnb!
[sta_anchor id=”africa” unsan=”Africa”]Best Airbnbs for Families in Africa[/sta_anchor]
Tigmi Mzine, Essouria, Morocco
Capetown, South Africa
By Kaylie Lewell, Happiness Travels Here
Capetown, South Africa
[sta_anchor id=”asia” unsan=”Asia”]Best Airbnbs for Families in Asia[/sta_anchor]
Sanur, Bali
Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines
This four-bedroom villa in Panglao Island is everything you could ask for. For $79/ a night, you’ll get four bedrooms, two bathrooms, private small pool, TV room, relaxing living room and a sleek and modern kitchen. The whole place is spacious and has everything a family need. The host also offers a private van and driver than can pick and bring your family up in the airport, to give you an island and country tour and basically brings you anywhere. For a total of three days that my family was there, I only had to pay less than $60 for our private van and driver service (and tips!)
The villa is also few minutes drive away from the world famous Alona beach in Panglao, so if your family wants to try the beach instead of the pool, you can easily head to the beach and enjoy the sun. The best thing about Panglao and Bohol as a whole is that you won’t run out of things to do with your family: amazing beaches, snorkelling and diving activities, adrenaline packed activities for adults, historical places, the world-famous Chocolate hills and Tarsier watching for your kids. See this Airbnb!
By Christine Rogador, The Travelling Pinoys
Batangas, Philippines
[sta_anchor id=”oceania” unsan=”Oceania”]Best Airbnbs for Families in Oceania[/sta_anchor]
Sydney, Australia
We found a great little gem of an apartment to use as a base to explore Sydney with the perfect location. The apartment was located in hip Kirribilli, where just a minute walk provided us with breathtaking views of Sydney harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We had a ferry terminal right near the apartment for a super fun way to get around the city. We even walked across the Harbour Bridge one day to Circular Quay. We love using Airbnbs for the use of a kitchen, but there were also lots of cute restaurants nearby in this leafy suburb. While it was a small apartment, it was great to have the two bedrooms for our family of five. See this Airbnb!
By Dawn Nicholson, 5 Lost Together
Adelaide, South Australia
There are a lot of wonderful things about Airbnb homes, but it is rare that one place ticks all the boxes. We were in Adelaide to attend the WOMADedalaide Festival and stayed at a home in Glendora, South Australia for a week. A semi-detatched “half house”, it was cute and atmospheric, decorated in art-deco style. It provided enough space for our multigenerational family of five to sleep – and best of all – had its’ very own Secret Garden. This simple but beautiful garden was the absolute highlight. Each morning (as they do at home) the kids were up and outside playing. With three bedrooms this Airbnb had an ample kitchen and laundry – both bonuses while travelling with kids. Plus, it was located about 10 minutes walk from the Tram line (on little legs.) See this Airbnb!
By Ariana, World of Travels with Kids
Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Nelson, New Zealand
Got an Airbnb you love? Drop a link in the comments! And don’t forget to sign up using my referral link to get $40 off your first stay!
PIN THIS FOR LATER
What a great list of accommodation options. Thanks for including our Santorini AinbNB. We will definitely be using it again – makes so much sense with children. I think we need to make our way through this list!
This post is such a great resource! as you said, it’s hard to know which vacation rentals to choose, especially when you’re traveling with kids, but having recommendations from people who have actually stayed there and loved them makes it easier to choose a place. Some of these make me want to book a trip just to stay in them!
Thanks for your help with this!